Tooth extraction induces residual ridge resorption which impairs function and aesthetic of dental prostheses. This study aimed at developing new bone scaffolds to be used in a tooth socket for preserving bone mass from the residual ridge resorption. Scaffolds were fabricated from poly(1,4-butylene succinate) extended with 1,6-diisocyanatohexane (PBSu-DCH) by solvent casting and particulate leaching technique. Four different weight ratios of NaCl particles (200-400 mu m: used as the porogen species) and the polymer were varied (i.e., 25, 30, 35, and 40% based on the weight of the polymer). Scaffolds were evaluated for their physical (i.e., morphology, porosity, pore volume, and pore size), physico-mechanical (i.e., mechanical properties and water retention ability), and biological properties (i.e., cytotoxicity and bone cell attachment). The potential for use of the as-prepared materials as effectual drug-releasing scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration was assessed by incorporating ipriflavone and studying the release of the drug from the drug-loaded scaffolds. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.