For some decades now, a variety of synthetically manufactured replacement materials (alloplastic) suitable for conducting bone augmentation has been available on the market. For the most part, these materials are made up of ceramic, metal, and polymer. Usually, ß-tricalcium phosphates are applied, however, the use of materials such as hydroxyapatite, tricalcium phosphate, calcium sulphate, glass ceramic as well as polymere sugars and milk sugar is steadily increasing.
Synthetic bone replacement material can be produced in large quantities and is thus available for transplantations very quickly and in practically unlimited amounts. Due to its artificial production, synthetic bone replacement material is not prone to qualitative fluctuations and contaminations are highly unlikely. However, the risk of side effects such as bacterial infections can not be eliminated completely; when applied in the lower jaw area, nerve irritations can occur.
One of the main disadvantages of synthetic material is that it has no osteoinductive function whatsoever, meaning it is incapable of inducing bone regeneration. For this reason, it is frequently blended with autogenous (bodily) bone substance. Feel free to consult your dentist in terms of relying completely on patients‘ own bone instead.