NCT07433322 · Virginia Commonwealth University
Alveolar Ridge Preservation (ARP) in the Posterior Maxilla After the Extraction of Maxillary Molars
What this study is about
Dental implants are a fixed replacement solution with reported long-term survival rates between 94-98% over 20-40 years. In order to ensure successful implant therapy, adequate bone and soft tissue as well as correct 3D positioning of the implant are required. Upon extraction of a tooth, socket width can decrease by up to 60% within six months post-extraction, with a 11-22% vertical reduction.
View original scientific description
Dental implants are a fixed replacement solution with reported long-term survival rates between 94-98% over 20-40 years. In order to ensure successful implant therapy, adequate bone and soft tissue as well as correct 3D positioning of the implant are required. Upon extraction of a tooth, socket width can decrease by up to 60% within six months post-extraction, with a 11-22% vertical reduction. Additionally, sinus pneumatization occurs post-extraction as the maxillary sinus expands into the empty socket due to disuse atrophy and intra-sinus air pressure, as explained by Wolff's law. This further reduces residual bone height (RBH), often resulting in posterior maxillary sites requiring supplemental procedures to prevent bone loss or to augment the bone height at the time of implant placement. However, if the bone height and width dimensions are sufficient before and after extraction - in that, even with the aforementioned loss in width and height percentages in the latter, a standard implant may still be placed in the surrounding bone, one can argue that grafting may not be necessarily done at the time of extraction. Rather, it can be tailored to the patients' needs; thus potentially reducing overall post-operative discomfort and pain.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Intact or \<5mm dehiscence buccally and palatally
- Initial residual bone height (RBH) of at least 6 mm. 3-A minimum distance of 1 mm between root apices and sinus membrane.
Exclusion criteria
- Medically compromised
- heavy smokers
- young (\<18 yrs.) or those refusing treatment are excluded.
Where
- Richmond, Virginia
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 26, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations