Could a common steroid improve dental bone graft healing?

NCT ID NCT06556095

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

After a tooth is removed, a bone graft is often placed to prevent the bone from shrinking. This study tested whether hydrating the bone graft with dexamethasone (a steroid) instead of saline improves healing. 44 adults who needed a tooth extraction and planned dental implant took part. Researchers measured new bone formation and ridge changes 16 weeks later.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Dexamethasone

What this could lead to

If successful, this could point toward a simple way to improve bone graft healing after tooth extraction.

What could go wrong

This is a very early, small study (44 people) that only looked at healing under a microscope. Results may not apply to everyone or change standard practice.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for TOOTH EXTRACTION are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, School of Dentistry

    San Antonio, Texas, 78229, United States