Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the procedures for improving the maxillary alveolar ridges with the flabby tissue, which dislodge remarkably under stress, by the application of hydroxyapatite granules (HAP).
The splints, which adapted to the ridge with an adequately designed contour on the plaster models, were prepared for fixation of the ridge with HAP immediately after operation. The effect of HAP application in two edentulous patients were examined by using the following means, and two kinds of splints, with and without holes as the guides to pack HAP, were compared.
1. the contour of the plaster models.
2. the denture mobility by Mandibular Kinesiograph(M.K.G.).
3. the amount of muscle activity of the masseter by electromyography(E.M.G.).
4. the dietary records and the questionaire on the masticatory ability by using the classification of food by stiffness.
5. the condition of the mucosal tissue covering the ridge with HAP by reflectance spectrophotometry.
The following results were obtained.
1. By application of HAP, the ridges become enlarged and useful in supporting an occlusal force. Thus, the mobility of the dentures was reduced and the masticatory ability was improved.
2. The use of bladed teeth increased the efficency of mastication.
3. The property of mucosal tissue covering the ridge with HAP as the substitutional bone was regarded to be the same one as covering the ridge with natural bone.
4. The splints with the holes were more useful for precise operation of HAP application than the one without holes.
5. The flabby tissue might disappear by only applying HAP, even if it is not surgically removed.
The application of HAP is useful to improve the maxillary alveolar ridge with flabby tissue.
