Objective The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the radiographic changes and histologic healing following alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) using autogenous whole tooth (AWTG), test group, versus autogenous demineralized dentin graft (ADDG), control group. Material and methods Twenty non‐molar teeth indicated for extraction were randomized into two groups (n = 10/group). Extracted teeth were prepared into AWTG or ADDG (0.6N HCl; 30 min), inserted into extraction sockets and covered by collagen membranes. Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans at baseline and six months were compared to assess ridge‐dimensional changes. At six months, bone biopsies of engrafted sites were harvested and analyzed histomorphometrically. Results All sites healed uneventfully. Reduction was 0.85 ± 0.38 mm and 1.02 ± 0.45 mm in ridge width, 0.61 ± 0.20 mm and 0.72 ± 0.27 mm in buccal and 0.66 ± 0.31 mm and 0.56 ± 0.24 mm in lingual ridge height for the AWTG and ADDG group, respectively (p > .05). Histologically, no inflammatory reactions were noticeable and all samples showed new bone formation. Qualitatively, graft‐bone amalgamations were more pronounced in ADDG samples. Histomorphometrically, new bone, graft remnants and soft tissue occupied 37.55% ± 8.94%, 17.05% ± 5.58% and 45.4% ± 4.06% of the areas in the AWTG group and 48.4% ± 11.56%, 11.45% ± 4.13% and 40.15% ± 7.73% in the ADDG group of the examined areas, respectively (p > .05). Conclusions AWTG and ADDG are similarly effective in ARP. Yet, histologically ADDG seems to demonstrate better graft remodeling, integration and osteoinductive properties.

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Extraction of hopeless or non-restorable teeth for various reasons is still one of the frequent procedures carried out in the dental practice, but this comes with adverse consequences. Exodontia affects the individual's ability to speak, masticate and the overall quality of life and reduces the dimensions of available bone (Marcus et al., 1996). Socket preservation procedure is one of