RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: The search for an osteopromotive material that enhances the efficacy of alloplasts in reconstructive surgeries has been going on for years. This study aimed to histologically and histomorphometrically evaluate the efficiency of Moringa oleifera leaf extract as an osteopromotive biomaterial. DESIGN: The study is a prospective randomized controlled animal study. 24 adult male New Zealand rabbits were equally allocated into test and control groups. Critical-sized bone defects were created in the edentulous areas of the mandibles of rabbits. The defects of the control group were filled with Beta-tricalcium Phosphate, while the defects of the test group were filled with Beta-tricalcium Phosphate combined with Moringa oleifera leaf extract. The results were evaluated histologically and histomorphometrically. RESULTS: Histological and histomorphometric analysis showed a significant increase in the surface area of bone and the number of osteoblasts in test groups compared to those in the control groups. CONCLUSION: Moringa oleifera leaf extract has a positive effect on bone regeneration in critical-sized bone defects.