Distraction Osteogenesis-Recapturing the Normal Contour of Gingiva and Alveolar Bone - A Review

Distraction osteogenesis have important application in orthopedic therapy for correction of bone anomalies. Its use in the field of dentistry begin in late 20th century, with its common application in maxillofacial reconstruction of bone anomalies which are either pathological or developmental in origin. Particularly in periodontics the preparation of implant site in case of vertical ridge deficiency can be done using distraction osteogenesis with more predictable results than any other technique. This review summarizes the background, biological principles, phases involving distraction osteogenesis and molecular mechanism behind distraction osteogenesis.