Editorial Type:
Article Category: Case Report
 | 
Online Publication Date: 15 Jul 2025

Long-Term Success of rhBMP-2 in Maxillofacial Bone Regeneration: A 10-Year Case Study

DDS, MSc,
DDS, MSc, PhD,
DDS, PhD,
DMD, PhD, and
DMD, MS, PhD
Page Range: 264 – 266
DOI: 10.1563/aaid-joi-D-25-00067
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Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) has emerged as an alternative to autogenous bone grafts in maxillofacial surgery, reducing donor-site morbidity while promoting osteoinduction. This case report evaluates the 10-year outcomes of rhBMP-2 use for mandibular bone regeneration in a 55-year-old male with extensive periapical osteolytic lesions on teeth #23, #24, #25, and #26 linked to childhood trauma. Following extraction, curettage, and rhBMP-2 grafting with a collagen membrane and titanium mesh, 3 implants (2.9 × 12 mm) were placed after 6 months, followed by osseointegration and a connective tissue graft for prosthetic rehabilitation. Over 10 years, clinical and radiographic assessments indicated stable bone levels (<1 mm crestal loss) and implant success with no complications reported despite acknowledged risks of edema or carcinogenesis. This case aligns with the literature supporting rhBMP-2 efficacy (81.4% bone regeneration success) and underscores the importance of delivery systems in optimizing outcomes. Continued research investigating dosing and carriers is warranted to enhance its application in implant dentistry.

Copyright: 2025
Figure 1.
Figure 1.

(a) Initial surgical exposure showing periapical lesions and mobile teeth (23, 24, 25, and 26) prior to extraction. (b) Postextraction defect exhibits an absent vestibular plate and granulation tissue (inset: cone-beam computerized tomography not shown).


Figure 2.
Figure 2.

(a) Intraoperative placement rhBMP-2 on a collagen membrane within the defect. (b) Stabilization of the graft with titanium mesh and screws for space maintenance.


Figure 3.
Figure 3.

(a) Placement of 3 implants (2.9 × 12 mm) 6 months postgrafting. (b) Periapical radiograph taken 4 months after the implant placement.


Figure 4.
Figure 4.

(a) Healing abutments were placed, and the autogenous connective tissue graft was secured with sutures. (b) Occlusal image showing the achieved gingival thickness after 2 months of healing.


Figure 5.
Figure 5.

(a) Patient’s smile after 10-year follow-up. (b) Vestibular image of the grafted site with rehabilitated implants, illustrating stable clinical outcomes. (c) Periapical radiographic images of the implants placed in the site of bone regenerated with rhBMP-2.


Contributor Notes

Corresponding author, e-mail: carlos.mourao@tufts.edu
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