Rigid occlusive titanium barriers for alveolar bone augmentation: two reports with 24-month follow-up.

Titanium barriers have been used for guided bone regeneration in preclinical and preliminary clinical reports as a possible alternative to bone grafting. In two cases with lateral bone defects, rigid titanium barriers were used to provide a secluded space in conjunction with bone substitutes. Sufficient lateral bone volume was generated for implant placement, and no complications were observed during 2 years of follow up. In conclusion, space-making stiff titanium barriers may be applied successfully for lateral alveolar crest augmentation.