3D-Printable Biopolymers for Socket Preservation Technique: Soft Tissues Response: A Pilot Randomised Clinical Study.

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present parallel clinical study is to evaluate the efficacy of 3D-printed biopolymers compounded with osteoconductive material (beta-tricalcium phosphate and hydroxyapatite) for soft tissue closure after tooth extraction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

this study followed the CONSORT reporting guidelines; 39 patients were treated with socket preservation using 3D-printed biopolymers and randomly divided into 3 groups (Test 1, Test 2, and Control). All cases were treated without flap elevation, careful cleaning and debridement of the sites, and then randomly sealed as follows: In T1, with a 3D-printed disk of poli-D-lactic acid with 10% of hydroxyapatite; in T2, using a 3D-printed disk of poli-ε caprolactone with 20% of β-tricalcium phosphate; and in T3, the socket was left open to heal. At baseline (extraction time) and 6 weeks after extraction, the rate of exposure was evaluated and stratified according to the site (anterior, posterior).

RESULTS

No dropouts were observed during the 6 weeks follow-up. All sites underwent uneventful healing with no complications. For posterior teeth, Test 1 and Test 2 showed full healing of the soft tissues with a reduction of the exposed area from 46.5 ± 8.25 mm

CONCLUSIONS

Both materials used in this study showed evidence to achieve the purpose. Ethical Guidelines: written informed consent was obtained from the participants of the study, as requested by the Ethics Committee for Health Research Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Trisakti, with the following number: 641/S3/KEPK/FKG/5/2023.