Simultaneous or staged lateral ridge augmentation: A clinical guideline on the decision-making process

Lateral ridge augmentation is a standard surgical procedure that can be performed prior to (staged) or simultaneously with implant placement. The decision between a simultaneous or staged approach involves considering multiple variables. This paper proposed a decision-making process that serves as a guideline for choosing the best treatment choice based on the available evidence and the author's clinical experience.

Randomized controlled pilot study comparing small buccal defects around dental implants treated with a subepithelial connective tissue graft or with guided bone regeneration

AIM

To compare subepithelial connective tissue grafts (SCTG) versus guided bone regeneration (GBR) for the treatment of small peri-implant dehiscence defects in terms of profilometric (primary outcome), clinical, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).

METHODS

Sixteen patients who presented with small buccal bone dehiscences (≤3 mm) following single implant placement were recruited. Following implant placement, buccal bone defect sites were randomly treated either with a SCTG or GBR. Six patients who lacked bone dehiscences after implant placement were assigned to a negative control. Transmucosal healing was applied in all patients. Patients were examined prior (T1) and after (T2) implant placement, at suture removal (T3), at implant impression (T5), at crown delivery (T6), and 12 (T7) months after crown delivery. Measurements included profilometric outcomes, marginal bone levels, buccal bone and soft tissue thickness, PROMs, and clinical parameters. All data were analyzed descriptively.

RESULTS

The median changes in buccal contour as assessed by profilometric measures between T1 and T5 showed a decrease of 1.84 mm for the SCTG group and 1.06 mm for the GBR group. Between T2 and T7, the median change in the buccal contour amounted to 0.45 mm for SCTG and -0.94 mm (=loss) for GBR. Patients' pain perception tended to be higher in SCTG than in GBR. All peri-implant soft tissue parameters showed healthy oral tissues and no clinically relevant differences between groups.

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of this pilot study, treating small peri-implant dehiscence defects with a SCTG might be a viable alternative to GBR. The use of a SCTG tended to result in more stable profilometric outcomes and comparable clinical outcomes to GBR. However, patient-reported outcome measures tended to favor GBR.

Do autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) have a role in intra-oral bone regeneration? A critical review of clinical guidelines on decision-making process

In the past decades, personalized regenerative medicine has gained increased attention. Autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) such as PRP, PRGF, and L-PRF, all serving as a source of a large variety of cells and growth factors that participate in hard and soft tissue healing and regeneration, could play a significant role in regenerative periodontal procedures. This narrative review evaluated the relative impact of APCs in alveolar ridge preservation, sinus floor augmentation, and the regeneration of bony craters around teeth, both as a single substitute or in combination with a xenograft. L-PRF has a significant beneficial effect on alveolar ridge preservation (bone quality). The data for PRGF are less convincing, and PRP is controversial. L-PRF can successfully be used as a single substitute during transcrestal (≥3.5 mm bone gain) as well as 1-stage lateral window sinus floor elevation (>5 mm bone gain). For PRGF and especially PRP the data are very scarce. In the treatment of bony craters around teeth, during open flap debridement, L-PRF as a single substitute showed significant adjunctive benefits (e.g., >PPD reduction, >CAL gain, >crater depth reduction). The data for PRP and PRGF were non-conclusive. Adding PRP or L-PRF to a xenograft during OFD resulted in additional improvements (>PPD reduction, >CAL gain, >bone fill), for PRGF no data were found. Autologous platelet concentrates demonstrated to enhance bone and soft tissue healing in periodontal regenerative procedures. The data for L-PRF were most convincing. L-PRF also has the advantage of a greater simplicity of production, and its 100% autologous character.

In vivo evaluation of bone regeneration using ZIF8-modified polypropylene membrane in rat calvarium defects

AIM

The profound potential of zeolitic imidazolate framework 8 (ZIF8) thin film for inducing osteogenesis has been previously established under in vitro conditions. As the next step towards the clinical application of ZIF8-modified substrates in periodontology, this in vivo study aimed to evaluate the ability of the ZIF8 crystalline layer to induce bone regeneration in an animal model defect.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Following the mechanical characterization of the membranes and analysing the in vitro degradation of the ZIF8 layer, in vivo bone regeneration was evaluated in a critical-sized (5-mm) rat calvarial bone defect model. For each animal, one defect was randomly covered with either a polypropylene (PP) or a ZIF8-modified membrane (n = 7 per group), while the other defect was left untreated as a control. Eight weeks post surgery, bone formation was assessed by microcomputed tomography scanning, haematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemical analysis.

RESULTS

The ZIF8-modified membrane outperformed the PP membrane in terms of mechanical properties and revealed a trace Zn+2 release. Results of in vivo evaluation verified the superior barrier function of the ZIF8-coated membrane compared with pristine PP membrane. Compared with the limited marginal bone formation in the control and PP groups, the defect area was almost filled with mature bone in the ZIF8-coated membrane group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results support the effectiveness of the ZIF8-coated membrane as a promising material for improving clinical outcomes of guided bone regeneration procedures, without using biological components.

Efficacy of biomaterials for lateral bone augmentation performed with guided bone regeneration. A network meta-analysis

Bone regeneration is often required concomitant with implant placement to treat a bone fenestration, a dehiscence, and for contouring. This systematic review assessed the impact of different biomaterials employed for guided bone regeneration (GBR) simultaneous to implant placement on the stability of radiographic peri-implant bone levels at ≥12 months of follow-up (focused question 1), as well as on bone defect dimension (width/height) changes at re-assessment after ≥4 months (focused question 2). Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) that compared different biomaterials for GBR were considered. A Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA) was performed using a random-effects model. A ranking probability between treatments was obtained, as well as an estimation of the surface under the cumulative ranking value (SUCRA). Overall, whenever the biological principle of GBR was followed, regeneration occurred in a predictable way, irrespective of the type of biomaterial used. A lower efficacy of GBR treatments was suggested for initially large defects, despite the trend did not reach statistical significance. Regardless of the biomaterial employed, a certain resorption of the augmented bone was observed overtime. While GBR was shown to be a safe and predictable treatment, several complications (including exposure, infection, and soft tissue dehiscence) were reported, which tend to be higher when using cross-linked collagen membranes.

Membrane barriers for guided bone regeneration: An overview of available biomaterials

Dental implants revolutionized the treatment options for restoring form, function, and esthetics when one or more teeth are missing. At sites of insufficient bone, guided bone regeneration (GBR) is performed either prior to or in conjunction with implant placement to achieve a three-dimensional prosthetic-driven implant position. To date, GBR is well documented, widely used, and constitutes a predictable and successful approach for lateral and vertical bone augmentation of atrophic ridges. Evidence suggests that the use of barrier membranes maintains the major biological principles of GBR. Since the material used to construct barrier membranes ultimately dictates its characteristics and its ability to maintain the biological principles of GBR, several materials have been used over time. This review, summarizes the evolution of barrier membranes, focusing on the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of available occlusive barrier membranes and presents results of updated meta-analyses focusing on the effects of these membranes on the overall outcome.

Clinical efficacy of guided bone regeneration in peri-implantitis defects. A network meta-analysis

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) at peri-implantitis-related bone defects involves the placement of bone-filler particles in the intrabony defects and the application of a barrier membrane. The efficacy of different GBR-supported reconstructive measures as well as their potential superiority compared to non-GBR-supported treatment strategies for bone defects at peri-implantitis sites, however, remains unclear. Therefore, this analysis was designed to evaluate the long-term (≥12 months) clinical efficacy of GBR-supported reconstructive surgical therapy for peri-implantitis-related bone defects. In terms of resolving inflammation, the implementation of GBR protocols applying xenogenic bone substitutes yielded a higher reduction of bleeding on probing and probing depth value compared to the GBR protocol applying autogenous bone. Furthermore, for the changes in bleeding on probing and probing depths, GBR approaches using xenogenic bone showed superiority over the non-GBR treatments. Xenogenic bone with or without a barrier membrane was associated with improved radiographic bone levels and less soft tissue recession compared to the use of a GBR protocol implementing autogenous bone. Nonetheless, when interpreting this findings, the limited number of available studies with low to serious risk of bias and the short follow-up periods limited to 12 months should be considered.

Dimensional changes after horizontal and vertical guided bone regeneration without membrane fixation using the retentive flap technique: A 1-year retrospective study

AIM

To evaluate the dimensional changes after horizontal and vertical guided bone regeneration (GBR) without membrane fixation using the retentive flap technique.

METHODS

This study retrospectively examined two cohorts that received vertical or horizontal ridge augmentations (VA or HA groups). GBR was performed using particulate bone substitutes and resorbable collagen membranes. The augmented sites were stabilized using the retentive flap technique without any additional membrane fixation. The augmented tissue dimensions were assessed using cone-beam computed tomography at preoperative, immediately postoperative (IP), 4 months (4M), and 1 year (1Y).

RESULTS

Postoperative vertical bone gain in 11 participants of VA group amounted to 5.96 ± 1.88 mm at IP, which decreased to 5.53 ± 1.62 at 4M and to 5.26 ± 1.52 mm at 1Y (intragroup p < 0.05). The horizontal bone gain at IP in 12 participants amounted to 3.98 ± 2.06 mm, which decreased to 3.02 ± 2.06 at 4M and to 2.48 ± 2.09 mm at 1Y (intragroup p < 0.05). The mean implant dehiscence defect height after 1Y was 0.19 ± 0.50 mm in the VA group, and 0.57 ± 0.93 mm in the HA group.

CONCLUSION

GBR without membrane fixation using the retentive flap technique seems to preserve the radiographic bone dimensions of vertically augmented sites. This technique may be less effective at preserving the width of the augmented tissue.

Techniques on vertical ridge augmentation: Indications and effectiveness

Vertical ridge augmentation techniques have been advocated to enable restoring function and esthetics by means of implant-supported rehabilitation. There are three major modalities. The first is guided bone regeneration, based on the principle of compartmentalization by means of using a barrier membrane, which has been demonstrated to be technically demanding with regard to soft tissue management. This requisite is also applicable in the case of the second modality of bone block grafts. Nonetheless, space creation and maintenance are provided by the solid nature of the graft. The third modality of distraction osteogenesis is also a valid and faster approach. Nonetheless, owing to this technique's inherent shortcomings, this method is currently deprecated. The purpose of this review is to shed light on the state-of-the-art of the different modalities described for vertical ridge augmentation, including the indications, the step-by-step approach, and the effectiveness.

Characterization of Polyvinyl Alcohol-Collagen-Hydroxyapatite Composite Membrane from Lates calcarifer Scales for Guided Tissue and Bone Regeneration

OBJECTIVE

 To determine the chemical structure, tensile strength, porosity, and degradability of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-collagen-hydroxyapatite (HA) composite membranes for guided tissue and bone regeneration.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 The PVA-collagen-HA composite membrane was divided into three groups: the group without irradiation, the group with 15 kGy irradiation, and 25 kGy irradiation. Each group was tested for chemical structure with Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) at a wavelength of 400 to 4,000 cm-1. Tensile strength test was tested in dry and wet conditions with the standard method of American Standard Testing Mechanical (ASTM) D638, and porosity using scanning electron microscope and analyzed using ImageJ software. Degradability test immersed in a solution of phosphate-buffered saline. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's test.

RESULTS

 FT-IR test before and after storage for 30 days on three media showed a stable chemical structure with the same functional groups. ANOVA analysis showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the dry condition (p = 0.006), Tukey's test showed a significant difference in the 15 kGy and 25 kGy irradiated groups (p = 0.005), but the groups without irradiation had no significant difference with the 15 kGy (p = 0.285) and 25 kGy (p = 0.079) irradiation groups. In wet conditions, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in each group (p = 373). The size of the porosity in the group without irradiation, 15 kGy irradiation, and 25 kGy irradiation showed a size of 4.65, 6.51, and 8.08 m, respectively. The degradability test showed a decrease in weight in each group, with the total weight of the membrane being completely degraded from the most degraded to the least: the groups without irradiation, 15 kGy irradiation, and 25 kGy irradiation. The ANOVA test on the degradability test shows significant (p < 0.05) in the PVA-collagen-HA composite membrane group over time intervals (p = 0.000). Tukey's post hoc test showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) after 1 week between the groups without irradiation with 15 kGy (p = 0.023).

CONCLUSION

 PVA-collagen-HA composite membrane has a stable chemical structure, optimal tensile strength, porosity, and ideal degradability as guided bone regeneration and guided tissue regeneration.

Influence of Different Porosities of Titanium Meshes on Bone Neoformation: Pre-Clinical Animal Study with Microtomographic and Histomorphometric Evaluation

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different types of porosity of titanium meshes on the bone neoformation process in critical defects surgically created in rat calvaria, by means of microtomographic and histomorphometric analyses. Defects of 5 mm in diameter were created in the calvaria of 36 rats, and the animals were randomly treated and divided into the following groups (6 animals per group): NCOG (negative control, only blood clot), TEMG (Polytetrafluoroethylene-PTFE-membrane), SPTMG (small pore titanium mesh), SPMMG (small pore mesh + PTFE), LPTMG (large pore titanium mesh), and LPMMG (large pore mesh + PTFE). After 60 days, the animals were sacrificed, and the bone tissue formed was evaluated with micro-CT and histomorphometry. The data were compared using an ANOVA followed by the Tukey post-test (p ≤ 0.05). The microtomographic results showed that the SPTMG group presented the highest numerical value for bone volume/total volume (22.24 ± 8.97), with statistically significant differences for all the other groups except LPTMG. Considering the histomorphometric evaluation, groups with only porous titanium meshes showed higher values compared to the groups that used the PTFE membrane and the negative control. The SPTMG group presented higher values in the parameters of area (0.44 mm2 ± 0.06), extension (1.19 mm2 ± 0.12), and percentage (7.56 ± 1.45%) of neoformed bone. It was concluded that titanium mesh with smaller pores showed better results and that the association of PTFE membranes with titanium meshes did not improve the outcomes, suggesting a correlation between mesh porosity and underlying bone repair.

Lateral Peri-Implantitis: Successful Management via Guided Bone Regeneration at Mandibular First Molar Implant

Infections occurring around implants are divided into marginal peri-implantitis and retrograde peri-implantitis (RPI). Marginal peri-implantitis starts in the crestal bone and progresses to the apical portion, and RPI starts in the apical bone and progresses to the coronal portion. However, lateral peri-implantitis (LPI) occurring on the side of the implant body has not yet been reported, and the cause is unclear. This 63-year-old male patient is a case of unusual bone resorption that occurred in the lateral portion of the implant body 26 months after lateral bone augmentation. The origin of LPI was an infection at the site of laterally augmented bone. Rather than implant removal, this report demonstrates an alternative treatment option of guided bone regeneration after the enucleation and detoxification of the implant surface with successful clinical and radiographic results for 2 years.

Regeneration of Buccal Wall Defects after Tooth Extraction with Biphasic Calcium Phosphate in Injectable Form vs. Bovine Xenograft: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Bone healing after tooth extraction may be affected by defects of the alveolus buccal wall, such as fenestrations and dehiscences. Therefore, to minimize dimensional changes it is advisable to perform alveolar ridge preservation after tooth extractions. Different biomaterials are used for this purpose. The aim of this study was to investigate the qualitative and quantitative histological changes in human biopsies taken after 6 months of healing of extraction sockets with buccal wall defects. For this purpose, the defects of 36 patients (18 per group) were treated with injectable biphasic calcium phosphate (I-BCP) or bovine xenograft (BX) after extraction. After six months of healing, biopsies were taken and proceeded to the histology laboratory. No evidence of an inflammatory response of the tissue was observed in the biopsies of either group, and the newly formed bone (NB) was in close contact with the remaining biomaterial (BM). The histomorphometric results showed that there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in the mean percentage of NB (p = 0.854), BM (p = 0.129), and soft tissue (p = 0.094). To conclude, both biomaterials exhibited osteoconductivity and biocompatibility and achieved satisfactory bone regeneration of buccal wall defects after tooth extraction.

Resorbable Membranes for Guided Bone Regeneration: Critical Features, Potentials, and Limitations

Lack of horizontal and vertical bone at the site of an implant can lead to significant clinical problems that need to be addressed before implant treatment can take place. Guided bone regeneration (GBR) is a commonly used surgical procedure that employs a barrier membrane to encourage the growth of new bone tissue in areas where bone has been lost due to injury or disease. It is a promising approach to achieve desired repair in bone tissue and is widely accepted and used in approximately 40% of patients with bone defects. In this Review, we provide a comprehensive examination of recent advances in resorbable membranes for GBR including natural materials such as chitosan, collagen, silk fibroin, along with synthetic materials such as polyglycolic acid (PGA), polycaprolactone (PCL), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and their copolymers. In addition, the properties of these materials including foreign body reaction, mechanical stability, antibacterial property, and growth factor delivery performance will be compared and discussed. Finally, future directions for resorbable membrane development and potential clinical applications will be highlighted.

Guided Tissue and Bone Regeneration Membranes: A Review of Biomaterials and Techniques for Periodontal Treatments

This comprehensive review provides an in-depth analysis of the use of biomaterials in the processes of guided tissue and bone regeneration, and their indispensable role in dental therapeutic interventions. These interventions serve the critical function of restoring both structural integrity and functionality to the dentition that has been lost or damaged. The basis for this review is laid through the exploration of various relevant scientific databases such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of science and MEDLINE. From a meticulous selection, relevant literature was chosen. This review commences by examining the different types of membranes used in guided bone regeneration procedures and the spectrum of biomaterials employed in these operations. It then explores the manufacturing technologies for the scaffold, delving into their significant impact on tissue and bone regenerations. At the core of this review is the method of guided bone regeneration, which is a crucial technique for counteracting bone loss induced by tooth extraction or periodontal disease. The discussion advances by underscoring the latest innovations and strategies in the field of tissue regeneration. One key observation is the critical role that membranes play in guided reconstruction; they serve as a barrier, preventing the entry of non-ossifying cells, thereby promoting the successful growth and regeneration of bone and tissue. By reviewing the existing literature on biomaterials, membranes, and scaffold manufacturing technologies, this paper illustrates the vast potential for innovation and growth within the field of dental therapeutic interventions, particularly in guided tissue and bone regeneration.

Radiographic outcomes of ridge reconstruction with autogenous bone block versus collagenated xenogeneic bone block: A randomized clinical trial

AIM

To compare, at different levels from the alveolar crest, the radiographic outcomes of equine-derived collagenated xenogeneic bone blocks (CXBB) and autogenous bone blocks (ABB) used for lateral alveolar ridge augmentation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty-four patients with tooth gaps in atrophic alveolar ridges with ≤4 mm were randomly assigned to lateral augmentation using CXBB or ABB. The lateral bone thickness (LBT) was measured 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mm below the alveolar crest using CBCT scans obtained before augmentation surgery and at 30 weeks, prior to implant placement. Statistical analysis was performed using Shapiro-Wilk, Fisher's exact, Mann-Whitney, and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests.

RESULTS

Both CXBB and ABB resulted in significant total and buccal LBT gains at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mm. LBT gains were similar between CXBB- and ABB-augmented sites, except for greater buccal LBT gains at 8 mm at CXBB-augmented sites. While ABB-augmented sites gained vertical bone height, CXBB-treated sites suffered vertical bone loss (CXBB: -0.16 mm; ABB: 0.38 mm, p < .0009).

CONCLUSIONS

CXBB and ABB were both associated with significant and similar LBT gains at 30 weeks.

Progression of experimental peri-implantitis in guided bone regeneration and pristine bone: A preclinical in vivo study

BACKGROUND

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) is the most widely used technique for overcoming the deficiency of alveolar bone. However, the progression of peri-implantitis in regenerative and pristine bone sites has not been fully investigated. The aim of this study is to compare experimental peri-implantitis around implants placed in pristine bone and GBR sites.

METHODS

Bilateral  mandibular first molars were extracted from six beagle dogs, and standardized horizontal ridge defect was simultaneously created at predetermined site in unilateral mandible. After 8 weeks, guided bone regeneration procedure was conducted at the defect site. After 16 weeks, implants (ϕ 3.6×8.0 mm) were placed at both extracted sites. This study included 3 months of active breakdown and another 3 months of spontaneous progression period. Radiographs were taken at each phase and specimens were obtained for histological, immunohistochemical, and polarized light microscopic analysis.

RESULTS

Marginal bone loss around implant did not show the significant differences between pristine bone and GBR sites during spontaneous progression period. In immunohistochemical analysis, inflammatory and immune-related cells were predominantly detected in peri-implantitis-affected area rather than unaffected area. In the polarized light microscopic analysis, substantial reductions in the amount and thickness of collagen fibers were observed in peri-implantitis-affected area compared with unaffected tissues. However, there were no significant differences in histological, immunohistochemical, polarized light microscopic outcomes between pristine bone and GBR sites.

CONCLUSION

Previous hard tissue grafting at the implant sites did not affect experimental peri-implantitis and exhibited similar radiographic, histological, immunohistochemical, and polarized light microscopic outcomes compared with those of pristine bone sites.

Treatment of an ossifying fibroma of the mandible with endodontic microsurgery and grafting with a biphasic calcium sulfate material: a case report

A significant percentage of lesions of endodontic origin require surgical management due to the possible diagnosis of odontogenic cysts and tumors in the maxilla and mandible. Ossifying fibroma is a benign fibro-osseous lesion that typically presents as a painless, slow-growing, and expansile lesion that appears as a well-demarcated lesion with a variable degree of internal calcification on radiography. Treatment results in a large osseous defect, utilization of a graft to fill the void accelerates healing and prevents complications that may result from failure to fill by the host response.

CASE PRESENTATION

Following endodontic surgery placement of osseous graft material via Guided Tissue Regeneration to fill the defect aids to accelerate fill of the defect on a healthy 26-year-old female patient. A case discussing the one-step treatment of an ossifying fibroma of the anterior part of the mandible following endodontic microsurgery with associated retrograde fill of the apex, then site grating with biphasic calcium sulfate (Bond Apatite®) used in regeneration of the osseous defect related to the lesion and resulting surgery.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Histologically, the ossifying fibroma is dominated by connective tissue containing cell rich areas with a few fragments of fibrosis. Moreover, in the connective tissue numerous small fragments of spongy and compact bone with areas of partial necrosis present and a significant number of inflammatory cells are observed. Surgical removal of the cyst with thorough curettage of the osseous walls and grafting of the defect provides predictable healing and the desired clinical results sought. Utilization of the biphasic calcium sulfate graft material allows the elimination of the need to overlay the area with a membrane before the flap due to its hard set and the prevention of soft tissue ingrowth into the graft material during the healing phase. Additionally, the hard set of the material allows tenting of the area to maintain the desired volume and ridge contour. Conversion of the graft material depending on the volume placed to host bone occurs over a 3-6 month period.

CONCLUSION

The case report presented, as well as the authors experience mimics the literature on biphasic calcium sulfate in its use as an osseous graft material and is an effective method for the repair of osseous defects that result from the removal of tumors and cysts of the maxilla and mandible. Treatment of an ossifying fibroma is an ideal application of the use of this biphasic calcium sulfate material allowing tenting of the surgical site over the defect created after cyst removal without the need for resorbable collagen membranes. This simplifies its use and decreases material costs that may hamper patient acceptance of treatment without a decrease in expected clinical results.

Blood Clotting Dissolution in the Presence of a Magnetic Field and Preliminary Study with MG63 Osteoblast-like Cells-Further Developments for Guided Bone Regeneration?

BACKGROUND

The influence of a magnetic field on the activation of bone cells and remodelling of alveolar bone is known to incite bone regeneration. Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) aims to develop biomimetic scaffolds to allow for the functioning of the barrier and the precise succession of wound healing steps, including haemostasis. The effect of a magnetic field on blood clot dissolution has not been studied yet.

METHODS

We conducted a methodological study on the clot stability in the presence of a static magnetic field (SMF). Preformed whole blood (WB) clots were treated with either a broad proteolytic enzyme (trypsin) or a specific fibrinolytic agent, i.e., tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA). MG63 osteoblast-like cells were added to preformed WB clots to assess cell proliferation.

RESULTS

After having experienced a number of clotting and dissolution protocols, we obtained clot stability exerted by SMF when tissue factor (for clotting) and t-PA + plasminogen (for fibrinolysis) were used. WB clots allowed osteoblast-like cells to survive and proliferate, however no obvious effects of the magnetic field were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Paramagnetic properties of erythrocytes may have influenced the reduction in clot dissolution. Future studies are warranted to fully exploit the combination of magnetic forces, WB clot and cells in GBR applied to orthodontics and prosthodontics.

A Synthetic Bio-Absorbable Membrane in Guided Bone Regeneration in Dehiscence-Type Defects: An Experimental In Vivo Investigation in Dogs

This study aimed to determine the performance and characteristics of a synthetic barrier membrane of polylactic acid and acetyl butyl citrate (PLAB) for the lateral bone augmentation of peri-implant dehiscence defects (mean height × depth = 3 mm × 1 mm). In eight dogs, three treatment groups were randomly allocated at each chronic peri-implant dehiscence-type defect: (i) a deproteinized bovine bone mineral covered by a synthetic barrier membrane (test group), (ii) a deproteinized bovine bone mineral covered by a natural collagen membrane (positive control), and (iii) a synthetic barrier membrane (negative control). After 4 and 12 weeks of submerged healing, dissected tissue blocks were processed for calcified and decalcified histological analysis. Histometric measurements for tissue and bone width were performed, and bone-to-implant contact and alkaline phosphatase expression where measured. After 4 and 12 weeks of healing, no statistical differences between the groups were observed for the histometric measurements. The expression of alkaline phosphatase was higher in the positive control group after 4 weeks followed by the positive and negative controls (5.25 ± 4.09, 4.46 ± 3.03, and 4.35 ± 2.28%, p > 0.05) and 12 weeks followed by the negative and positive controls (4.3 ± 2.14, 3.21 ± 1.53, and 2.39 ± 1.03%, p > 0.05). Concerning the bone-to-implant contact, after 4 weeks, the test group obtained the highest results (39.54 ± 48.7) vs. (31.24 ± 42.6) and (20.23 ± 36.1), respectively, while after 12 weeks, the positive control group obtained the highest Bone to imaplant contact (BIC) results, followed by the test and negative controls, (35.91 ± 24.9) vs. (18.41 ± 20.5) and (24.3 ± 32.1), respectively; no statistically significant differences were obtained. Within the limitations of the study, new bone formation can be achieved in guided bone regeneration procedures simultaneously with implant placement either with the use of a PLAB membrane or a native collagen membrane, although these differences were not statistically significant.

Decontaminative Properties of Cold Atmospheric Plasma Treatment on Collagen Membranes Used for Guided Bone Regeneration

Background cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is known to be a surface-friendly yet antimicrobial and activating process for surfaces such as titanium. The aim of the present study was to describe the decontaminating effects of CAP on contaminated collagen membranes and their influence on the properties of this biomaterial in vitro. Material and Methods: A total of n = 18 Bio-Gide^® (Geistlich Biomaterials, Baden-Baden, Germany) membranes were examined. The intervention group was divided as follows: n = 6 membranes were treated for one minute, and n = 6 membranes were treated for five minutes with CAP using kINPen^® MED (neoplas tools GmbH, Greifswald, Germany) with an output of 5 W, respectively. A non-CAP-treated group (n = 6) served as the control. The topographic alterations were evaluated via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Afterward, the samples were contaminated with E. faecalis for 6 days, and colony-forming unit (CFU) counts and additional SEM analyses were performed. The CFUs increased with CAP treatment time in our analyses, but SEM showed that the surface of the membranes was essentially free from bacteria. However, the deeper layers showed remaining microbial conglomerates. Furthermore, we showed, via XPS analysis, that increasing the CAP time significantly enhances the carbon (carbonyl group) concentration, which also correlates negatively with the decontaminating effects of CAP. Conclusions: Reactive carbonyl groups offer a potential mechanism for inhibiting the growth of E. faecalis on collagen membranes after cold atmospheric plasma treatment.

Band-Aid-Like Self-Fixed Barrier Membranes Enable Superior Bone Augmentation

In guided bone regeneration surgery, a barrier membrane is usually used to inhibit soft tissue from interfering with osteogenesis. However, current barrier membranes usually fail to resist the impact of external forces on bone-augmented region, thus causing severe displacement of membranes and their underlying bone graft materials, eventually leading to unsatisfied bone augmentation. Herein, a new class of local double-layered adhesive barrier membranes (ABMs) is developed to successfully immobilize bone graft materials. The air-dried adhesive hydrogel layers with suction-adhesion properties enable ABMs to firmly adhere to the wet bone surface through a "stick-and-use" band-aid-like strategy and effectively prevent the displacement of membranes and the leakage of bone grafts in uncontained bone defect treatment. Furthermore, the strategy is versatile for preparing diverse adhesive barrier membranes and immobilizing different bone graft materials for various surgical regions. By establishing such a continuous barrier for the bone graft material, this strategy may open a novel avenue for designing the next-generation barrier membranes.

Citral-rich fractions of Lippia alba essential oils as immunoresponsive and anti-Candida albicans additives for collagen membranes in guided bone regeneration

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to optimize the immunoresponsive and anti-Candida albicans (C. albicans) properties of guided bone regeneration-resorbable membranes (collagen) using additives based on synergistic mixtures of chlorhexidine with terpene-enriched fractions from Lippia alba essential oils (EO).

METHODS

The anti-C. albicans activity of the fractions (individually or combined with chlorhexidine) was evaluated using planktonic and sessile cultures. J774A.1 murine macrophage cells were used to determine the cytotoxicity and immunoresponsive effects of the therapies.

RESULTS

The anti-planktonic and anti-sessile performance of chlorhexidine on C. albicans was improved 2- to 4-fold by supplementation with citral-rich fractions. On macrophages, this fraction also exhibited a potentially cytoprotective action against the toxic effects of chlorhexidine, minimizing damage to the cell membrane, mitochondrial membrane potential, and nuclear integrity. Macrophages growing on collagen-membrane fragments and stimulated with the citral fraction (alone or with chlorhexidine) showed a significant increase in releasing the osteogenic cytokine TNF-α and enhancing the IL-4.

CONCLUSION

This combined therapy appears as a promising platform for the development of a prophylactic or therapeutic biocidal solution that can optimize the pharmacological characteristics of chlorhexidine (epithelium tolerance and anti-C. albicans consolidation on surfaces), as well as potentiating the immunoresponsive properties of collagen membranes.

Guided tissue regeneration in class IV external cervical resorption: A case report

External cervical resorption (ECR) is a type of dental resorption that originates from the loss of the cementum's protective layer. The direct exposure of dentin to the periodontal ligament may lead to the invasion of clastic cells through an entry point on the external root surface into the dentinal tissue, causing resorption. Depending on the extension of ECR, different treatments are proposed. Although the literature presents distinct materials and methods for restoring ECR areas, an existing gap is related to care in the treatment of the supporting periodontal tissue. Guided tissue regeneration/guided bone regeneration (GTR/GBR) includes the stimulation of bone formation in bone defects using different types of membranes (resorbable and non-resorbable), regardless of its association with bone substitutes or grafts. Despite the benefits of guided bone regeneration, the application of this method in cases of ECR is still under-explored in the literature. Thus, the present case report uses GTR with xenogenic material and polydioxanone (PDO) membrane in a case of class IV ECR. The success of the present case is related to the correct diagnosis and treatment plan. Complete debridement of resorption areas and restoration with biodentine were effective in tooth repair. GTR contributed to the stabilization of supporting periodontal tissues. The association of the xenogeneic bone graft with the PDO membrane proved to be a viable option for restoring the health of the periodontium.

Physical Characteristics and Biocompatibility of 3D-Printed Polylactic-Co-Glycolic Acid Membranes Used for Guided Bone Regeneration

Bioresorbable polymeric membranes for guided bone regeneration (GBR) were fabricated using the three-dimensional printing technique. Membranes made of polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), which consist of lactic acid (LA) and glycolic acid in ratios of 10:90 (group A) and 70:30 (group B), were compared. Their physical characteristics including architecture, surface wettability, mechanical properties, and degradability were compared in vitro, and their biocompatibilities were compared in vitro and in vivo. The results demonstrated that the membranes of group B had mechanical strength and could support the proliferation of fibroblasts and osteoblasts significantly better than those of group A (p < 0.05). The degradation rate in Group B was significantly lower than that in Group A, but they significantly produced less acidic environment (p < 0.05). In vivo, the membranes of group B were compared with the commercially available collagen membranes (group C). The amount of newly formed bone of rat's calvarial defects covered with the membranes of group C was stable after week 2, whereas that of group B increased over time. At week 8, the new bone volumes in group B were greater than those in group C (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the physical and biological properties of the PLGA membrane (LA:GA, 70:30) were suitable for GBR.