Maxillary Bone Reconstruction with Autogenous Grafts vs. Synthetic Biomaterials: A Comparative Analysis of Clinical Success and Implant Survival Rate

Abstract

Maxillary bone reconstruction plays a fundamental role in the oral rehabilitation of patients with severe bone loss, making the safe and successful placement of dental implants possible. To achieve this, different materials have been used, each with its own advantages and challenges. Autogenous bone grafts, harvested from the patient’s own body, are widely recognized for their high integration capacity, while synthetic biomaterials emerge as promising alternatives, reducing the need for a second surgical procedure. This study aimed to review the literature and compare the effectiveness of these two approaches in maxillary bone reconstruction, analyzing clinical success rates and the long-term survival of implants. To achieve this, scientific articles from indexed databases were consulted, including clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses that evaluated the clinical outcomes of each material. The results indicate that autogenous grafts remain the gold standard, as they possess properties that promote more effective bone regeneration. However, their use can present challenges, such as the need for a second surgical site for graft harvesting and the possibility of bone resorption. On the other hand, synthetic biomaterials, such as hydroxyapatite and calcium phosphate, offer a less invasive approach and demonstrate osteoconductive potential, becoming even more effective when combined with growth factors. Therefore, the choice of materials should take into account the individual conditions of each patient, bone availability, and clinical planning. Both methods yield positive results, but further studies are needed to refine techniques and enhance the predictability of maxillary bone reconstruction, ensuring greater success and long-term durability of dental implants.