The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical, volumetric, radiographic, and histologic aspects of autogenous demineralized dentin matrix (DDM) combined with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) used for ridge preservation, compared to those of deproteinized bovine bone with collagen (DBBC). Following atraumatic extraction, the socket was filled with DBBC, DDM, or rhBMP-2/DDM. Scanned images of dental casts and cone beam computed tomographs (CBCT) were superimposed for the calculation of soft and hard tissue volume alteration. Preoperative and postoperative measurements of the height and width of the alveolar ridge were compared using CBCT images. After 4 months, bone specimens were harvested for histomorphometric assessment. Loss of hard and soft tissue volume occurred at 4 months after extraction and ridge preservation in all groups. No volumetric differences were detected among the three groups before and 4 months after ridge preservation. The reduction in the horizontal width at 5 mm was higher in the DBBC compared to the DDM. Histologically, approximately 40% newly formed bone was founded in rhBMP-2/DDM group. The autogenous dentin matrix used to fill the socket was as beneficial for ridge preservation as conventional xenografts. The combination of rhBMP-2 with dentin matrix also demonstrated appreciable volumetric stability and higher new bone formation compared to DDM alone and DBBC.

Kang MH, et al. J Korean Assoc Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2018 Oct;44(5):225-231. https://doi.org/10.5125/jkaoms.2018.44.5.225

Conventionally, indirect radiography has been used to diagnose salivary gland diseases. However, with the development of sialendoscopy, diagnosis and treatment of salivary gland diseases have become more effective. Herein, we report a case of sialolithotomy treated with sialendoscopy and compare it with the existing methods through a literature review. Two patients with a foreign body sensation under the tongue and dry mouth visited the Anam Hospital, Korea University. Radiographic examination revealed salivary stones inside the right Wharton duct, and the patients underwent sialolithotomy under local or general anaesthesia. The stones were totally removed, and there were no postoperative complications such as bleeding or pain. The development of sialendoscopy has enabled better definitive diagnosis of salivary gland diseases compared with the conventional methods; better treatment outcomes can be obtained when sialendoscopy is used in appropriate cases.