Confocal laser scanning microscopy for the study of the morphological changes of the postextraction sites

A better understanding of the remodeling process of postextraction sockets is essential in dental treatment planning. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) can be applied to imaging contour changes of postextraction sites, as well as to its quantification with image analysis of obtained three-dimensional images. This work describes a new application of the CLSM technique. The system used was the OLS3100-USS, LEXT model (Olympus((R))). CLSM was used for the surface analysis of the extraction site. The measurements taken with CLSM were: (1) mesio-distal distance, (2) alveolar ridge thickness, and (3) vestibular and lingual alveolar ridge heigh…