Resorbable Scaffold Clinical Trial - Expressions of Interest
We are currently recruiting patients for a research study at Brisbane City Periodontics & Implants, evaluating a new 3D printed, resorbable scaffold used to rebuild jaw bone before dental implant placement. The scaffold is designed individually from your scans to fit your bone defect and gradually dissolves as new bone forms.
Who can participate
You may be eligible to participate if you are:
- aged 18–75 years
- missing 1–6 teeth and have been told you may need bone grafting before dental implants
- able to attend multiple Brisbane-based appointments over the next 24 months
- generally healthy, with no major uncontrolled medical conditions that affect healing
- a non-smoker or light smoker (including vapes/vaping), or willing to reduce/quit before surgery.
You may be ineligible to participate if you:
- have extensive metallic restorations in the region of interest especially post-core restorations
- are preparing to become pregnant over the next 24 months
- participate in heavy alcohol or chronic drug use
- are taking certain medicines that affect bone or healing i.e. immunosuppressants.
What’s involved
A small, custom-made scaffold designed from your scan and 3D printed from biodegradable, medical-grade polycaprolactone (PCL). It’s placed where bone is needed before a dental implant and secured with small screws.
The scaffold holds a protected space so your own bone can regrow. As healing progresses, the PCL gradually dissolves.
The process involves:
- Screening and planning – scans and photos are taken
- Day surgery, including general anaesthetic
- Post operation check up at the 1, 2 and 3 month marks
- Bone scan CBCT
- Implant placement
- Tooth restoration
- One-year function assessment.
Benefits of participating
- Reduced treatment costs
- Extra care: more frequent check-ups, imaging and follow-up than usual care.
- Contributes to research that could improve care for others.
- You can withdraw at any time without affecting your routine care.
- Alternative options, including non-resorbable titanium mesh, requires surgical removal.
Cost
The experimental scaffold is provided at no cost.
Some parts of the treatment will be subsidised or discounted through the study. Details can be provided if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Dental implant rehabilitation is still a significant standard of care treatment, so usual clinic/hospital/anaesthetic and restoration fees may apply.
How to participate
If you meet the eligibility criteria and you’re interested in participating, register your interest via the registration form.