Socket grafting in the posterior maxilla reduces the need for sinus augmentation.

This study compared the dimensional alterations, the need for sinus floor elevation, and the histologic wound healing of augmented and nonaugmented alveolar sockets. Sixteen human extraction sockets were either grafted or left untreated. At baseline and 3 and 6 months postextraction, alveolar ridge alterations were evaluated; at 3, 6, and 9 months, histologic analyses were conducted. Implant placement with or without sinus floor augmentation was decided at 6 months. Three of eight patients in the control group underwent sinus floor augmentation compared to one of six in the experimental group. The alveolar ridge augmentation procedure presented here increases the possibility of inserting implants without the need for a sinus augmentation procedure.