Guided Bone Regeneration of a Pronounced Gingivo‐Alveolar Cleft Due to Orthodontic Space Closure

Abstract

Gingival invagination is a relatively common occurrence following orthodontic closure of extraction sites. The present paper reports a combined periodontal and orthodontic treatment in a patient with a severe gingivo-alveolar cleft due to orthodontic closure of maxillary central incisor extraction space. A definite interdental gingival cleft, extending 8 mm into the alveolar bone, required the correction of the gingival deformity as a first step, followed by guided bone regeneration (GBR). The GBR approach included the emptying of the incisive foramen to approximately 5 mm in depth followed by the insertion of bioabsorbable hydroxyapatite and covering with a bioabsorbable barrier membrane. Six months afterward, the orthodontic therapy was resumed. Radiographs and clinical examination 4 years after the completion of therapy indicates functionally and aesthetically satisfactory and stable results. The present paper illustrates an additional application for the guided bone regeneration technique.