Biodegradable Magnesium-Based Tenting Devices for Vertical Alveolar Ridge Regeneration
These devices are comprised of pure magnesium, magnesium alloys or magnesium-polymer composites formed into headed screws with pointed, threaded shafts for subperiosteal and gingival implantation over the alveolar ridge. Composition can range from nearly pure magnesium to blends with zinc, calcium, manganese or biopolymers such as PLA, collagen and hydroxyapatite. Porosity and surface‐area‐to‐volume ratios are graded along the shaft to tailor in vivo degradation rates. Manufacturing methods include pressing, sintering, extrusion, solvent casting, casting under protective atmospheres and high-energy mechanical alloying. As they degrade, Mg²⁺ ions are released to buffer polymer acidity, stimulate osteogenesis and progressively resorb without requiring surgical removal. Compatibility with 3D printing and incorporation of growth factors or therapeutics further enhances functionality for bone regeneration and localized drug delivery.
Description
What sets this approach apart is its combination of controlled biodegradation and mechanical support, eliminating a second explantation surgery and reducing infection risk compared with traditional titanium screws. Tunable alloy and composite formulations allow fine adjustment of resorption kinetics, matching new bone formation rates. The localized release of magnesium ions enhances osteoconduction while buffering acidic byproducts of polymer breakdown. Together, these features yield faster graft integration, improved vertical bone augmentation and more predictable implant site development.Applications
- Vertical ridge augmentation screws- Biodegradable dental implant supports
- Resorbable bone regeneration scaffolds
- Drug-eluting bone healing devices
- 3D-printed magnesium implant composites
Advantages
- Biodegradable composition eliminates the need for a second removal surgery- Controlled in vivo degradation via tailored porosity and alloy/polymer ratios
- Release of Mg²⁺ ions promotes localized bone regeneration and graft integration
- Reduced infection risk and patient discomfort compared to non‐resorbable screws
- Faster bone grafting and accelerated readiness for dental implant placement
- Improved vertical ridge augmentation outcomes with increased regenerated bone height
- Capability to carry and deliver growth factors, drugs, or genetic materials
- Compatibility with 3D printing techniques when embedded in polymer matrices