Bone and Soft Tissue Augmentation in Implantology 2022

Oral rehabilitation supported by dental implants is a cornerstone of modern restorative dentistry. Since the 1960s, continuous improvements in materials, surgical techniques, and biological understanding have made it possible to achieve highly esthetic and functional implant-supported restorations, even in complex anatomical situations. Increasing patient expectations have driven the development of methods that not only restore original anatomy but also provide long-term stability and success.

Over the past three decades, various techniques and materials have been used to reconstruct alveolar bone defects, including autogenous, allogenic, xenogenic, and alloplastic grafts. Despite advances in non-autogenous materials and guided tissue regeneration, their reproducibility and long-term predictability remain limited. Autogenous bone continues to be the gold standard due to its superior biological, immunological, mechanical, and osteogenic properties, as well as its excellent capacity for revascularization and remodeling.

A deeper understanding of bone healing processes—such as cell interaction, vascular supply, and bone remodeling—has significantly improved clinical outcomes. Combined with refined surgical procedures, these advances now allow safe and predictable reconstruction of alveolar bone, even in cases of severe bone loss. Implants placed in regenerated bone demonstrate long-term success rates comparable to those placed in native bone.

This book presents decades of clinical experience with bone and soft tissue augmentation in oral implantology, focusing on techniques developed and modified at the author’s institution. It covers bone biology, diagnostics, treatment planning, soft tissue management, bone harvesting, grafting techniques for varying defect sizes, restorative concepts for complex cases, and the prevention and management of complications. Long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes, documented up to 27 years postoperatively, support the reliability and effectiveness of the presented approaches.