The use of ceramics in augmentation and replacement of portions of the mandible

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Abstract
Mandibular form and structrue are critically important in outlining the lower face and providing anchorage for the lower teeth. Mandibular function is also essential for mastication. Destruction and deformity of the mandible may, therefore, be crippling both physically and psychologically. The usual problems affecting the mandible are reduction in the substance of the alveolar ridge through inflammation or atrophy, presence of small bone gaps resulting from non‐union of fractures and avulsive injuries, neoplasia, and existance of contour deficiencies. The procedures necessary to deal with these problems are: (1) augmentation of the deficient mandibular alveolar ridge, (2) replacement of small discontinuity defects of the mandible, (3) replacement of large portions of mandible, and (4) correction of deficiencies in the contour of the mandible. Bone grafts, metals, and medical polymers have been widely used in the treatment of bony defects but these materials have serious shortcomings, particularly with reference to host acceptance and inertness. Additionally, soft tissue and bone seldom attach firmly to these materials. The ceramics appear to offer many advantages over materials used earlier. Calcium aluminate ceramic prostheses with interconnecting pores in the 150 to 200‐μ range were implanted in dogs to correct a variety of mandibular deficiences. They show considerable promise as an implant material.

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