Ridge augmentation using mandibular ramus bone grafts for the placement of dental implants: presentation of a technique.

Local bone grafts are a convenient source of autogenous bone in alveolar reconstruction. The mandibular ramus area provides primarily a cortical graft that is well-suited for veneer-grafting of ridge deficiencies prior to implant placement. The advantages of this method of augmentation include its intraoral access and low morbidity. Similar to bone harvested from the mandibular symphysis, these grafts require short healing periods, exhibit minimal resorption, and maintain their dense quality. Advantages of this donor site over the chin include minimal patient concern for altered facial contour, proximity to posterior mandible recipient sites, and decreased complaints of postoperative sensory disturbances and discomfort. However, the surgical access in some cases is limited, and there is a potential for damage to the mandibular neurovascular bundle. The learning objective of this article is to review and update the reader knowledge of alveolar ridge augmentation using mandibular grafts.