M.T. Peck

Alveolar Ridge Preservation Using Leukocyte and Platelet-Rich Fibrin: A Report of a Case

In order for a dental implant to be restored optimally, it must be placed in an ideal anatomic position. However, this is not always possible, since physiological wound healing after tooth removal, often results in hard and soft tissue changes which ultimately compromises ideal implant placement. With the aim of minimising the need for tissue augmentation, several alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) techniques have been developed. These often require the use of grafting material and therefore increase the risk of disease transmission. Leukocyte and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) is a newly developed platelet concentrate that is prepared from the patients own blood. Clinical research has indicated that it improves wound healing and stimulates bone formation. We present a case where L-PRF was successfully used in an ARP procedure to facilitate implant placement in a compromised extraction socket.

Palatal ulceration as the first sign of pulmonary tuberculosis: a case report

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the leading casues of morbidity and death in a number of countries worldwide. A healthy 42-year-old patient presented with a chronic palatal ulcer that was not responsive to routine antibiotic treatment. A biopsy and further systemic investigation revealed a diagnosis of TB. An eight-month extended course of oral rifampin and isoniazid was instituted successfully resulting in complete resolution of symptoms. It is important that clinicians be aware that chronic oral ulcerations may be the first sign of systemic disease. A biopsy should therefore be mandatory for any chronic oral ulcer not responsive to conventional treatment.