Ridge width gain with screw spreaders: A cadaver study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The aim of this cadaver study was to evaluate the amount of ridge expansion with screw spreaders. METHODS: Eleven edentulous maxillae providing 20 eligible sites were used. Ridges with initial width of 3 to 6 mm were expanded using a set of 6 screw spreaders, and implants (ø3.7 × 10 mm) were subsequently placed. Ridge width at 2 mm apical to the crest was measured at the baseline, after expansion, and implant placement. Buccal plate thickness and incidence of buccal dehiscence after implant placement were measured. RESULTS: The mean initial ridge width was 3.97 ± 0.82 mm. After the expansion, the mean ridge width increased to 4.76 ± 0.77 mm ([INCREMENT] = 0.79 mm). Majority of sites (7/9 sites) with an initial ridge width of