Evaluation of the Effectiveness of an Amnion-chorion Membrane for Alveolar Ridge Preservation

Bone grafts and membranes are commonly placed to increase the amount of bone right after tooth extraction and before placing a dental implant. The primary objective of this study is to study the effect of a human amnion-chorion membrane (ACM) in an exposed-barrier ridge preservation technique to a control group without utilizing a ACM.

30 patients requiring a front tooth extraction will be recruited and randomized to receive bone grafting with or without an ACM.

Inclusion criteria

• Age range: 20 to 80 years.
• Patients must require tooth extraction (for incisors, canines and premolars) as a result of caries, periodontal disease, tooth fracture or deemed unrestorable.
• Socket should be free of infection, less than 5mm of dehiscence
• Patients interested in implant placement following tooth extraction.

Exclusion criteria

• Allergies or hypersensitivities to study related medications such as chlorhexidine.
• Hematologic disorders/blood dyscrasias.
• Active infectious diseases of any kind.
• Liver or kidney dysfunction/failure.
• Uncontrolled diabetes (HbA1c > 8).
• Active cancer treatment - such as active chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
• Taking medications that will affect their bone healing (for example, bisphosphonates).
• Metabolic bone diseases that affect bone healing such as osteoporosis.
• Pregnant or lactating women (self-reported).
• Smoke 10 or more cigarettes per day (self-reported).
• Poor oral hygiene.