Purpose: Distraction osteogenesis has been applied for augmentation of atrophic alveolar ridge. The aim of this study is to evaluate the resorption rate of the augmentated alveolar ridge after implant installation.

Material and method: This analysis was performed for patients who were treated by alveolar bone distraction osteogenesis at Seoul National University Dental Hospital from 2003. Among 30 patients who received alveolar bone distraction osteogenesis, 18 patients with a follow-up period of over 36 months were selected as subjects. The mean follow-up period was 50 months. The change of the vertical alveolar bone height was evaluated on panoramic radiographs right after implant placement, at first follow up appointment (mean 13.9 months post-implantation), and finally at second follow up appointment (mean 36.8 months post implantation).

Result: The mean amount of resorption was 1.73 mm (range 0–4.7) at 1st follow-up and 0.58 mm (range 0–2.8 mm) at 2nd follow-up on panoramic radiograph. In patient with no change in the reduction of alveolar bone height, the percent change was 50% in the first appointment as well as in the second appointment.

Discussion: The resorption rate of the distracted alveolus was greater in the postoperative 1years period compared to the following period of 2 years.

Conflict of interest: None declared.