Distraction osteogenesis for the cranio-maxillofacial region (III): A compendium of devices for the dentoalveolus

Further to the compendium series of devices for distraction osteogenesis on cranio-maxillofacial region, this paper will focus on distractor devices for the dentoalveolus. Alveolar distraction osteogenesis is becoming a popular surgical bone augmentation procedure prior to dental implant rehabilitation. The current available systems not only allow distraction in linear and bidirectional direction but also angulation adjustment to achieve vector control. The development of integrated distraction dental implant devices can reduce the overall treatment duration and overcome limitations of conventional alveolar distractors. Continuous research and development is expected to improve current systems and designs thus making distraction osteogenesis a suitable technique in treating alveolar bone deficiency. This article reviews the history and current available alveolar distractors and aims to provide a better understanding on the technical aspects of the available systems and other factors that may influence the surgeons’ selection for device application in the cranio-maxillofacial region.