USE OF XENOGENEIC AND ALLOPLASTIC BONE BLOCKS IN ALVEOLAR RECONSTRUCTION: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Alveolar ridge volume loss compromises the placement of implants in a favorable position. Autogenous grafting is the gold standard but entails donor-site morbidity, limited availability, and unpredictable resorption. The literature regarding xenogeneic and alloplastic blocks for ridge reconstruction was reviewed, focusing on clinical outcomes, graft and implant survival, and complications. A search was conducted in the PubMed and SciELO databases, including clinical trials, case series, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. Collagenated xenogeneic blocks performed comparably to autogenous grafts—eliminating the need for a donor site and offering unlimited availability—although some studies indicate slightly lower implant survival rates and a risk of dehiscence and exposure. Alloplastic materials, such as hydroxyapatite and β-tricalcium phosphate, demonstrated adequate osteoconductivity and are primarily used for small defects or in combination with other substitutes. It is concluded that both are viable alternatives to autogenous grafts; the choice should take into account defect morphology, systemic conditions, the risk of complications, and the surgeon's experience.