Treatment of gingival recession using a collagen membrane with or without the use of demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft for space maintenance

Novel biomaterial advanced platelet-rich fibrin plus block for multiple gingival recession

BACKGROUND

The study was aimed to assess and compare hard and soft tissue augmentation clinicoradiographically with and without advanced platelet-rich fibrin + (A-PRF+) block for the treatment of multiple gingival recession using vestibular incision subperiosteal tunnel access (VISTA).

METHODS

A total of 24 patients, exhibiting multiple Miller's Class I or II recessions in the maxillary esthetic zone were included. Participants were divided into two groups, Group 1 was treated with VISTA & A-PRF+ block whereas Group 2 was with VISTA technique alone. Clinical parameters probing depth, width of keratinized gingiva, gingival biotype, recession depth, and clinical attachment level were recorded at baseline and the end of 6 months. The radiographic cone beam computed tomography measurements of labial plate thickness were taken at baseline and 6 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

From baseline to 6 months both the groups showed a clinical and statistical improvement in the parameters. However, a statistically significant difference between the treatment modalities was not observed. In the inter-group comparison radiographically, labial plate thickness was statistically significant at the end of 6 months when compared to the baseline.

CONCLUSION

A-PRF+ block along with the VISTA technique can be an alternative effective root coverage procedure for the management of multiple gingival recessions in the maxillary esthetic zone.

KEY POINTS

Why is this study new information? To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study using advanced platelet-rich fibrin plus block for the treatment of multiple gingival recession with a thin labial plate. What are the keys to the successful management of these types of cases? Minimally invasive vestibular incision subperiosteal tunnel access technique, and avoidance of second surgical site morbidity are important factors for treatment and for patient compliance. What are the primary limitations of this study? Short study duration, small sample size, and no histological correlation can be considered as limitations of the study.

Comparative Evaluation of DFDBA versus PRF with DFDBA in Treatment of Grade-II Furcation Defects - A Clinical Trial

Background

In order to determine whether a method is more successful for treating a grade-II furcation deficiency, this randomized trial will compare demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft (DFDBA) to platelet-rich fibrin with DFDBA.

Materials and Methods

Twenty systematically healthy patients between the ages of 30 and 60 with a grade-II furcation were evaluated pre and postoperatively for changes in the modified plaque index, probing depth, relative vertical and horizontal clinical attachment level, gingival marginal level, and radiographic bone defect.

Results

The test group significantly outperformed the control group on all clinical and radiological measures.

Conclusion

The experimental group improved at both clinical attachment levels and had a higher decrease in probing depth than the control group did.

Efficacy of amniotic membrane with coronally advanced flap in the treatment of gingival recession: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy of combining the amniotic membrane (AM) with the coronally advanced flap (CAF) in the treatment of Miller class I and II gingival recession (GR).

METHODS

The protocol of this updated PRISMA-compliant systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023431501). The following treatment outcomes were recorded; recession depth (RD), recession width (RW), width of keratinized gingiva (WKG), and clinical attachment level (CAL). We searched the following databases: MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Science Direct.

RESULTS

Two independent reviewers screened the selected articles. Twenty-two eligible articles were extracted, with 689 sites of GR in 481 patients. No statistically significant difference was found in RD, RW, WKG, and CAL between (AM&CAF) in comparison to control groups. However, the subgroup analysis showed statistically significant differences in RD between the (AM & CAF) group v/s (CAF) alone (P = 0.004). Moreover, the subgroup analysis of the WKG showed statistically significant differences between (AM & CAF) v/s (CAF&CM) (p = 0.04). Additionally, a statistically significant difference was found in the subgroup analysis of CAL between both (AM & CAF) group v/s (CAF) alone (p = 0.0009).

CONCLUSION

With the limitations of this meta-analysis due to short follow-up periods (6 months), the AM can be considered a viable treatment option for GR defects with satisfactory treatment outcomes comparable to other previously investigated treatment modalities.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

While AM showed various beneficial properties as an ideal membrane for the coverage of GR, future studies are required to completely understand the potential application of AM in the treatment of GR.

Intra-marrow penetrations and root coverage outcomes: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Intra-marrow penetrations (IMPs) have been performed during guided tissue regeneration (GTR) procedures with reported clinical benefits. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the use and effect of IMPs during root coverage procedures.

METHOD

A broad search for human and animal studies was performed on PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials and Web of Science, following a registered review protocol (PROSPERO). All prospective study designs, case series and case reports on gingival recession treatment (follow-up ≥ 6 months) that employed IMPs were included. Root coverage, complete root coverage prevalence, and adverse effects were recorded, and risk of bias was assessed.

RESULTS

Of 16,181 screened titles, 5 articles (all of them human studies) met inclusion criteria. All studies (including two randomized clinical trials) treated Miller class I and II recession defects, using coronally advanced flap with IMPs alone or in conjunction with GTR protocols. Therefore, all treated defects received IMPs and no studies compared protocols with and without IMPs. Outcomes were indirectly compared with existing root coverage literature. Mean root coverage was 2.7 mm and 68.5% at 6.8 months (median: 6 months, range 6-15 months) for sites treated with IMPs.

CONCLUSION

IMPs are rarely used during root coverage procedures, have not been associated with intra-surgical or wound healing adverse effects and have not been investigated as independent factor. Future clinical studies are needed to directly compare treatment protocols with and without IMPs and investigate the potential benefits of IMPs for root coverage.

Comparative evaluation of effect of injectable platelet-rich fibrin with collagen membrane compared with collagen membrane alone for gingival recession coverage

BACKGROUND

Collagen membrane and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) have emerged as vital biomaterials in the field of periodontal regeneration. Minimally invasive techniques are being preferred by most periodontists, as it is patient compliant with fewer post-surgical complications as compared to conventional surgical techniques. Thus, in this study we have evaluated the effect of injectable PRF (i-PRF) with collagen membrane compared with collagen membrane alone using vestibular incision subperiosteal tunnel access (VISTA) technique for gingival recession coverage.

AIM

To compare the efficacy of VISTA using collagen membrane with collagen membrane soaked in injectable PRF for gingival recession coverage.

METHODS

A split mouth randomized controlled clinical trial was designed;13 subjects having at least 2 teeth indicated for recession coverage were enrolled in this study. The sites were randomly assigned to control group (VISTA using collagen membrane alone) and the test group (VISTA using collagen membrane with i-PRF). The clinical parameters assessed were pocket depth, recession depth (RD), recession width (RW), relative attachment level, keratinised tissue width (KTW), keratinised tissue thickness (KTT), and percentage root coverage.

RESULTS

RD showed a statistically significant difference between the test group at 3 mo (0.5 ± 0.513) and 6 mo (0.9 ± 0.641) and the control group at 3 mo (0.95 ± 0.51) and 6 mo (1.5 ± 0.571), with P values of 0.008 and 0.04, respectively. RW also showed a statistically significant difference between the test group at 3 mo (1 ± 1.026) and 6 mo (1.65 ± 1.04) and the control group at 3 mo (1.85 ± 0.875) and 6 mo (2.25 ± 0.759), with P values of 0.008 and 0.001, respectively. Results for KTW showed statistically significant results between the test group at 1 mo (2.85 ± 0.489), 3 mo (3.5 ± 0.513), and 6 mo (3.4 ± 0.598) and the control group at 1 mo (2.45 ± 0.605), 3 mo (2.9 ± 0.447), and 6 mo (2.75 ± 0.444), with P values of 0.04, 0.004, and 0.003, respectively. Results for KTT also showed statistically significant results between test group at 1 mo (2.69 ± 0.233), 3 mo (2.53 ± 0.212), and 6 mo (2.46 ± 0.252) and the control group at 1 mo (2.12 ± 0.193), 3 mo (2.02 ± 0.18), and 6 mo (1.91 ± 0.166), with P values of 0.001, 0.001, and 0.001, respectively. The test group showed 91.6%, 81.6%, and 67% root coverage at 1 mo, 3 mo, and 6 mo, while the control group showed 82.3%, 66.4%, and 53.95% of root coverage at 1 mo, 3 mo, and 6 mo, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The use of minimally invasive VISTA technique along with collagen membrane and injectable form of platelet-rich fibrin can be successfully used as a treatment method for multiple or isolated gingival recessions of Miller’s class-I and class-II defects.

Soft tissue phenotype modification predicts gingival margin long-term (10-year) stability: Longitudinal analysis of six randomized clinical trials

Aim

To assess the prognostic value of soft tissue phenotype modification following root coverage procedures for predicting the long‐term (10‐year) behaviour of the gingival margin.

Materials and Methods

Participants from six randomized clinical trials on root coverage procedures at the University of Michigan were re‐invited for a longitudinal evaluation. Clinical measurements were obtained by two calibrated examiners. A data‐driven approach to model selection with Akaike information criterion (AIC) was carried out via multilevel regression analyses and partial regression plotting for changes in the level of the gingival margin over time and interactions with the early (6‐month) results of soft tissue phenotypic modification.

Results

One‐hundred and fifty‐seven treated sites in 83 patients were re‐assessed at the long‐term recall. AIC‐driven model selection and regression analyses demonstrated that 6‐month keratinized tissue width (KTW) and gingival thickness (GT) influenced the trajectory of the gingival margin similarly in a concave manner; however, GT was the driving determinant that predicted significantly less relapse in the treatments, with stability of the treated gingival margin obtained beyond values of 1.46 mm.

Conclusions

Among a compliant patient cohort, irrespective of the rendered therapy, the presence of at least 1.5 mm KTW and 1.46 mm GT was correlated with the long‐term stability of the gingival margin.

Evaluation of the efficacy of sticky bone and concentrated growth factor membrane along with a coronally advanced flap as compared to coronally advanced flap alone in the treatment of Miller's Class I and Class II gingival recession defects

Context

Gingival recessions are commonly seen in the dentally cognizant population as well as those with limited access to dental attention. When root coverage is planned, the ultimate goal is to obtain complete root coverage, thus restoring the lost gingival unit covering the root.

Aims

To determine the efficacy of sticky bone and concentrated growth factor (CGF) membrane along with a coronally advanced flap (CAF) as compared to CAF alone in treating Miller's Class I and Class II gingival recessions (Cairo RT1).

Settings and Design

The current study was a randomized double-blind controlled trial on 15 subjects using a split-mouth design.

Materials and Methods

Fifteen subjects who were systemically healthy and had recession sites (30 sites) were randomly assigned to two groups: Group A (test group = CAF + CGF + sticky bone) and Group B (control group = CAF alone). Clinical outcome was assessed with parameters such as recession depth, recession width, keratinized gingival width, gingival mucosal thickness, and relative attachment level (RAL), and these were assessed at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months.

Results

A distinct improvement was observed in the depth and width of recession, RAL, keratinized gingival width, and mucosal thickness of the gingiva in the two groups from baseline to 6 months. Statistical significance was not seen on intergroup comparisons.

Conclusions

Thus, clinical outcomes revealed noticeable improvement for both the groups. However, statistically, the efficacy of CGF and sticky bone was not perceived to be superior to that of CAF alone.

Comparative efficacy of coronally advanced flap with and without guided tissue regeneration in the management of gingival recession defects: A split-mouth trial

Background

The gingival recession causes tooth sensitivity, poor esthetics, and tooth mobility in severe cases. Scientific documentation revealed effective root coverage (RC) and increased keratinized tissue heights acquired with the coronally advanced flap (CAF) for multiple recession defects.

Objectives

This research evaluates and compares the efficacy of CAF procedures with and without Type I collagen bio-absorbable membrane in guided tissue regeneration (GTR) in the treatment of Miller's Class I and II gingival recession.

Materials and Methods

A total of 30 sites from 15 patients were selected for the study after fulfilling the presurgical phase of treatment. The chosen sites were randomly allocated into Group A CAF and Group B (CAF + Resorbable GTR membrane). The clinical variables such as plaque index, gingival index, recession depth (RD), recession width (RW), width of keratinized gingiva (WKG), clinical attachment level (CAL), and surface area of the defect were recorded at the baseline and 6 months postoperatively.

Results

Both therapies resulted in a notable gain in RC with a mean of 73.13% and 71.60%, respectively, but it was not statistically significant when compared between the groups. Both the RD and RW were significantly reduced from baseline to 6 months postoperatively. Although there was a gain in WKG and CAL in both experimental sites, no significant difference was observed between both the groups.

Conclusion

Although there are several RC procedures, CAF furnishes a foreseeable, straightforward, and appropriate perspective for treating Miller's Class I and II recessions. Integrating this approach with placing a bio-absorbable membrane does not seem to improve the results following surgical treatment of such defects. However, both groups showed the potential advantage of achieving RC.

Coronally advanced flap combined with sticky bone and i-PRF-coated collagen membrane to treat single maxillary gingival recessions: Case series

INTRODUCTION

Numerous techniques have been reported in the literature for the reconstruction of gingival recession defects. The purpose of this case series was to evaluate clinically and radiographically the efficacy of sticky bone with i-PRF-coated collagen membrane in the treatment of gingival recession.

CASE PRESENTATION

Sixteen patients exhibiting isolated Miller's Class I or II recession in the maxillary esthetic zone were treated using sticky bone (i-PRF + freeze-dried bone allograft) with i-PRF-coated collagen membrane using the coronally advanced flap. Clinical parameters including probing depth (PD), width of keratinized gingiva (WKG), gingival thickness (GT), and recession depth (RD) were recorded at baseline and 6 months post-surgery. The radiographic (ST-CBCT) measurements computed were labial plate thickness (OT1, OT3, and OT5) and GT (GT1, GT3, and GT5) at baseline and 6 months post-treatment. Twelve out of sixteen treated cases achieved complete root coverage. An increase in GT was observed in all the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limitations of this case series, sticky bone with i-PRF-coated collagen membrane showed promising results in the treatment of isolated maxillary Miller's Class I or II gingival recession and serves as an altered approach for root coverage procedure. However, histological analysis and larger sample size are needed to establish definitive proof of soft and hard tissue regeneration.

Root coverage using coronally advanced flap with porcine-derived acellular dermal matrix or subepithelial connective tissue graft: a randomized controlled clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to investigate the use of a porcine-derived acellular dermal matrix (MD) in root coverage procedures combined with extended coronally positioned flap (eCAF), in comparison to the subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) associated with the eCAF.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Eighteen adult patients presenting bilateral type 1 gingival recession were randomly assigned to SCTG or MD groups. Clinical and patient-based outcomes were recorded at 3 and 6 months after the surgical procedure.

RESULTS

Both groups showed a significant reduction in the mean recession height of 3.33 ± 0.89 mm to 1.24 ± 1.10 mm (MD) and 3.21 ± 0.8 mm to 0.83 ± 0.86 mm (SCTG) without difference between groups. Six patients in the test group and eight in the control group obtained complete root coverage. The keratinized tissue height and thickness (KTT) showed a significant increase after 3 and 6 months in both groups. The average KTT gains were 0.39 ± 0.4 mm (MD) and 0.51 ± 0.5 mm (SCTG) (p < 0.05). Performing multivariate analysis suggests that MD addition to coronally advanced flaps may be similar to SCTG.

CONCLUSION

The MD had similar results in comparison to SCTG and in the context of reducing patient morbidity it can be used as an alternative for the treatment of gingival recessions.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The SCTG is the gold standard therapy for root coverage. The MD has been widely used in mucogingival surgery as a substitute for SCTG and proposed similar results. A substitute is very important for clinicians and patients. It will give a better postoperative and possibilities to treat multiples recession. (Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT03675334).

Biologics-based regenerative technologies for periodontal soft tissue engineering

This manuscript provides a state-of-the-art review on the efficacy of biologics in root coverage procedures, including enamel matrix derivative, platelet-derived growth factor, platelet concentrates, and fibroblast-growth factor-2. The mechanism of action and the rationale for using biologics in periodontal plastic surgery, as well as their anticipated benefits when compared with conventional approaches are discussed. Although the clinical significance is still under investigation, preclinical data and histologic evidence demonstrate that biologic-based techniques are able to promote periodontal regeneration coupled with the provision of tooth root coverage.

Coronally Advanced Flap with Amniotic Membrane in the Treatment of Gingival Recession: Three Case Reports

Gingival recession is defined as an apical displacement of soft tissues to the cementoenamel junction. Various treatment options for the management of gingival recessions include laterally positioned flap, double papillae flap, coronally advanced flap (CAF) with or without guided tissue regeneration, free gingival autografts, and autogenous subepithelial connective tissue grafts. Three patients with multiple adjacent gingival recessions in the upper jaw were treated utilizing amniotic membrane (Tata memorial) with CAF. The results of this procedure show that amniotic membrane can be used in the treatment of gingival recession defects with significant root coverage and to increase the thickness of keratinized gingiva. There was an increase in height and thickness of keratinized gingiva from 3 to 3.5 mm and 1.5 to 2 mm, respectively. The present results suggest that the combined approach of CAF and amniotic membrane can be considered as a treatment option for multiple adjacent gingival recessions.

Osteogenic cells transfer improving root coverage: A randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The aim of this interventional, parallel-assignment, single-blinded, randomized, efficacy study was to investigate the efficacy of the treatment of gingival recessions by osteogenic cell transfer. This is the first randomized clinical trial of this nature.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Treatment of Miller class I or II gingival recessions >4 mm was randomly defined by casual sorting and performed by newly forming bone graft (NFBG) and coronally advanced flap (CAF) or subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) and CAF (control). Clinical examinations were performed by a single blinded examiner at baseline and at 3, 6, and 9 months after surgery. Parameters investigated were recession height (REC), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level, gingival bleeding index (GBI), plaque index (PlI), and keratinized gingiva width (KGW).

RESULTS

Both techniques achieved similar percentage of root coverage, but NFBG was more effective in pocket depth reduction, attachment level gain, and reduction of plaque accumulation and of bleeding on probing.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the transfer of osteogenic cells by NFBG is able to improve clinical attachment level and to cover denuded roots. NFBG can be used as an alternative treatment of deep recessions (≥4 mm), where the restoration of lost periodontal tissues is intended.

Comparative evaluation of clinical efficacy of coronally advanced flap alone and in combination with placental membrane and demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft in the treatment of gingival recession

Background:

Guided tissue regeneration is a very commonly employed technique for treating recession defects. However, achieving the required space beneath the membrane is often difficult.

Aim and Objectives:

The purpose of the present study was to compare and evaluate the clinical efficacy of coronally advanced flap (CAF) alone or in combination with amnion membrane (AM) or chorion membrane (CM) and demineralized freeze-dried bone allografts (DFDBAs) in the management of gingival recession (GR) defects.

Materials and Methods:

The sample size (Miller's Class I and Class II GR-type defects) consisted of thirty patients which were stratified into three groups randomly (ten for each group). Group A patients were treated with only CAF and Group B patients were treated by CAF in combination with CM and DFDBA. Similarly, Group C patients were treated by CAF in combination with AM and DFDBA. Clinical parameters such as gingival index, GR depth, GR width, relative attachment level, and width of keratinized tissue were assessed at baseline and 3 months postoperatively.

Results:

Inter- and intragroup data were analyzed by paired t-test. The percentage of root coverage obtained in the study groups was 60%, 78%, and 63%, respectively, for Groups A, B, and C. Statistically significant difference was obtained in the clinical parameters of Group B which was treated with CM and DFDBA.

Conclusions:

Combination of DFDBA and placental membrane (chorion/amnion) in CAF procedure provided an additional benefit over CAF alone in the treatment of Class I and II GR defects.

Root coverage procedures for treating localised and multiple recession-type defects

BACKGROUND

Gingival recession is defined as the oral exposure of the root surface due to a displacement of the gingival margin apical to the cemento-enamel junction and it is regularly linked to the deterioration of dental aesthetics. Successful treatment of recession-type defects is based on the use of predictable root coverage periodontal plastic surgery (RCPPS) procedures. This review is an update of the original version that was published in 2009.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy of different root coverage procedures in the treatment of single and multiple recession-type defects.

SEARCH METHODS

Cochrane Oral Health's Information Specialist searched the following databases: Cochrane Oral Health's Trials Register (to 15 January 2018), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2017, Issue 12) in the Cochrane Library (searched 15 January 2018), MEDLINE Ovid (1946 to 15 January 2018), and Embase Ovid (1980 to 15 January 2018). The US National Institutes of Health Ongoing Trials Register (ClinicalTrials.gov) and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform were searched for ongoing trials (15 January 2018). No restrictions were placed on the language or date of publication when searching the electronic databases.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) only of at least 6 months' duration evaluating recession areas (Miller's Class I or II ≥ 3 mm) and treated by means of RCPPS procedures.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Screening of eligible studies, data extraction and risk of bias assessment were conducted independently and in duplicate. Authors were contacted for any missing information. We expressed results as random-effects models using mean differences (MD) for continuous outcomes and odds ratios (OR) for dichotomous outcomes with 95% confidence intervals (CI). We used GRADE methods to assess the quality of the body of evidence of our main comparisons.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 48 RCTs in the review. Of these, we assessed one as at low risk of bias, 12 as at high risk of bias and 35 as at unclear risk of bias. The results indicated a greater reduction in gingival recession for subepithelial connective tissue grafts (SCTG) + coronally advanced flap (CAF) compared to guided tissue regeneration with resorbable membranes (GTR rm) + CAF (MD -0.37 mm; 95% CI -0.60 to -0.13, P = 0.002; 3 studies; 98 participants; low-quality evidence). There was insufficient evidence of a difference in gingival recession reduction between acellular dermal matrix grafts (ADMG) + CAF and SCTG + CAF or between enamel matrix protein (EMP) + CAF and SCTG + CAF. Regarding clinical attachment level changes, GTR rm + CAF promoted additional gains compared to SCTG + CAF (MD 0.35; 95% CI 0.06 to 0.63, P = 0.02; 3 studies; 98 participants; low-quality evidence) but there was insufficient evidence of a difference between ADMG + CAF and SCTG + CAF or between EMP + CAF and SCTG + CAF. Greater gains in the keratinized tissue were found for SCTG + CAF when compared to EMP + CAF (MD -1.06 mm; 95% CI -1.36 to -0.76, P < 0.00001; 2 studies; 62 participants; low-quality evidence), and SCTG + CAF when compared to GTR rm + CAF (MD -1.77 mm; 95% CI -2.66 to -0.89, P < 0.0001; 3 studies; 98 participants; very low-quality evidence). There was insufficient evidence of a difference in keratinized tissue gain between ADMG + CAF and SCTG + CAF. Few data exist on aesthetic condition change related to patients' opinion and patients' preference for a specific procedure.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Subepithelial connective tissue grafts, coronally advanced flap alone or associated with other biomaterial and guided tissue regeneration may be used as root coverage procedures for treating localised or multiple recession-type defects. The available evidence base indicates that in cases where both root coverage and gain in the width of keratinized tissue are expected, the use of subepithelial connective tissue grafts shows a slight improvement in outcome. There is also some weak evidence suggesting that acellular dermal matrix grafts appear as the soft tissue substitute that may provide the most similar outcomes to those achieved by subepithelial connective tissue grafts. RCTs are necessary to identify possible factors associated with the prognosis of each RCPPS procedure. The potential impact of bias on these outcomes is unclear.

In vitro characterization of an osteoinductive biphasic calcium phosphate in combination with recombinant BMP2

BACKGROUND

The repair of alveolar bone defects with growth factors and bone grafting materials has played a pivotal role in modern dentistry. Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP2), an osteoinductive growth factor capable of cell recruitment and differentiation towards the osteoblast lineage, has been utilized in combination with various biomaterials to further enhance new bone formation. Recently, a group of novel biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) bone grafting materials have been demonstrated to possess osteoinductive properties by demonstrating signs of ectopic bone formation. The aim of the present study was to study the effects of rhBMP2 in combination with osteoinductive BCP bone grafts on osteoblast cell behaviour.

METHODS

MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts were seeded on 1) control tissue culture plastic, 2) 10 mg of BCP alone, 3) 100 ng rhBMP2, and 4) 100 ng rhBMP2+ 10 mg of BCP and analyzed for cell recruitment via a Transwell chamber, proliferation via an MTS assay and differentiation as assessed by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, alizarin red staining and real-time PCR for osteoblast differentiation markers including Runx2, collagen1, ALP, and osteocalcin (OCN).

RESULTS

rhBMP2 was able to significantly upregulate cell recruitment whereas the addition of BCP as well as BCP alone had no additional ability to improve osteoblast recruitment. Both BCP and rhBMP2 were able to significantly increase cell proliferation at 3 and 5 days post seeding and cell number was further enhanced when rhBMP2 was combined with BCP. In addition, the combination of rhBMP2 with BCP significantly improved ALP activity at 7 and 14 days post seeding, alizarin red staining at 14 days, and mRNA levels of Runx2, ALP and osteocalcin when compared to cells seeded with rhBMP2 alone or BCP alone.

CONCLUSIONS

The results from the present study demonstrate that 1) the osteoinductive potential of BCP bone particles is equally as osteopromotive as rhBMP2 on in vitro osteoblast differentiation and 2) BCP particles in combination with rhBMP2 is able to further increase the osteopromotive differentiation of osteoblasts in vitro when compared to either rhBMP2 alone or BCP alone. Future animal testing is further required to investigate this combination approach on new bone formation.

Calcium sulfate combined with guided tissue regeneration: A novel technique in treatment of gingival recessions

The presence of mucogingival problem around anterior teeth is a challenge to the clinician as not only biological and functional aspects has to be addressed but esthetic aspirations of the patient have to be met. The use of guided tissue regeneration (GTR) procedures for the treatment of gingival recession has shown encouraging results and is gaining clinical acceptance. However, maintenance of space under the membrane remains a problem for clinicians. Hence, this case study was an innovative attempt to evaluate the effect of adjunctive calcium sulfate placement along with collagen membrane GTR-based root coverage procedure.

Periodontal soft tissue root coverage procedures: a systematic review from the AAP Regeneration Workshop

BACKGROUND

This paper aims to create a "bridge" between research and practice by developing a practical, extensive, and clinically relevant study that translates evidence-based findings on soft tissue root coverage (RC) of recession-type defects to daily clinical practice.

METHODS

This review is prepared in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement based on the proposed focused questions. A literature search with no restrictions regarding status or the language of publication was performed for MEDLINE and EMBASE databases up to and including June 2013. Systematic reviews (SRs), randomized clinical trials, controlled clinical trials, case series, and case reports evaluating recession areas that were treated by means of RC procedures were considered eligible for inclusion through the three parts of the study (part I, an overview of the base of SRs; part II, an alternative random-effects meta-analyses on mean percentage of RC and sites exhibiting complete RC; and part III, an SR of non-randomized trials exploring other conditions not extensively evaluated by previous SRs). Data on Class I, II, III, and IV recessions, type of histologic attachment achieved with treatment, recipient- and donor-site anatomic characteristics, smoking-related outcomes, root surface conditions, tooth type and location, long-term effectiveness outcomes, unusual conditions that may be reported during conventional daily practice, and patient-centered outcomes were assessed as well.

RESULTS

Of the 2,456 potentially eligible trials, 234 were included. Data on Class I, II, III, and IV gingival recessions, histologic attachment achieved after treatment, recipient- and donor-site anatomic characteristics, smoking-related outcomes, root surface conditions/biomodification, tooth type and location, long-term effectiveness outcomes and unusual conditions that may be reported during conventional daily practice, and patient-centered outcomes (i.e., esthetic, visual analog scale, complications, hypersensitivity, patients perceptions) were assessed. Subepithelial connective tissue (CT)-based procedures and coronally advanced flap plus acellular dermal matrix grafts, enamel matrix derivative, or collagen matrix led to the best improvements of recession depth, clinical attachment level (CAL) gain, and keratinized tissue (KT). Some conditions, such as smoking and use of magnification, may affect RC outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

All RC procedures can provide significant reduction in recession depth and CAL gain for Miller Class I and II recession-type defects. Subepithelial CT graft-based procedures provided the best outcomes for clinical practice because of their superior percentages of mean and complete RC, as well as significant increase of KT.

Concentrated growth factor in the treatment of adjacent multiple gingival recessions: a split-mouth randomized clinical trial

AIM

The aim of this study was to determine the clinical effect of concentrated growth factor (CGF) in combination with coronally advanced flap (CAF) compared to CAF alone for the treatment of multiple adjacent gingival recessions (GRs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty patients with a total of 119 Miller Class I and II GRs in the maxilla were included to this study. Recessions were randomly treated according to a split-mouth design by means of CAF + CGF (test; 60 defects) or CAF (control; 59 defects). Clinical outcomes were evaluated at baseline and 6 months after surgery.

RESULTS

The mean root coverage (MRC) was 82.06% and 86.67%, complete root coverage (CRC) was 45.8% (27/59) and 56.7% (34/60) for CAF and CAF + CGF, respectively at 6th month. Statistically no difference was demonstrated between the two groups in terms of recession depth (RD), MRC and CRC at 6th month. The increase in width of keratinized gingiva (KGW) and gingival thickness (GT) were statistically significant in the CAF + CGF group compared to the CAF group at 6th month.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of CGF in combination with CAF did not provide additional benefits in RD, CRC and MRC. This study suggests that use of CGF + CAF may increase the success of GRs because of a significant increase in KGW and GT.

Evaluation of the efficacy of 100% Type-I collagen membrane of bovine origin in the treatment of human gingival recession: A clinical study

BACKGROUND

Various treatment modalities have been devised for gingival recession, which is one of the most common signs of periodontal disease. The present study evaluates the efficacy of bioresorbable 100% type I collagen membrane of bovine origin in the treatment of human gingival recession.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty cases of Miller's class I or class II localized gingival recession defects on the facial surface were treated with 100% type I collagen membrane of bovine origin in conjunction with coronally positioned flap. Pre-operative and post-operative assessments were performed with respect to probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level and clinical recession at 12, 24 and 36 weeks. The data thus collected were analyzed statistically.

RESULTS

Statistically significant improvement based on Student's t test was found in all the three clinical parameters.

CONCLUSION

Bioresorbable 100% type I collagen membrane of bovine origin has given inspiring results in the treatment of human gingival recession defects, thereby justifying the use of this material wherever indicated.

Platelet-rich fibrin in the treatment of localized gingival recessions: a split-mouth randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical efficacy of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) in combination with coronally advanced flap (CAF) in the treatment of localized gingival recessions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-two patients with localized gingival recession defects (Miller I, II) participated in this split-mouth trial. Forty-four defects received either CAF + PRF (test) or CAF with subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) (control). Gingival recession depth (RD), gingival recession width (RW), keratinized tissue width (KTW), recession area (RA), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL) and gingival thickness (GT) were evaluated at baseline and 6 months. RD, RW, RA and KTW were calculated on standardized photographs with a computer image analysis program.

RESULTS

Percentage of root coverage in test group was 92.7 % and in control group was 94.2 % (p > 0.05). Percentage of complete root coverage of the test and control groups was 72.7 and 77.3 %, respectively (p > 0.05). KTW and GT were increased in both groups from baseline to 6 months (p < 0.001), but there was no statistically significant difference between treatment groups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Within the limits of the present study, it can be concluded that localized gingival recessions could be successfully treated with CAF + PRF as well as CAF + SCTG. The digital measuring method provided high accuracy and precision in the evaluation of treatment outcomes after both surgical procedures.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

PRF might be suggested as an alternative to SCTG for the treatment of localized gingival recessions.

Evaluation of efficacy of autologous platelet-rich fibrin with demineralized-freeze dried bone allograft in the treatment of periodontal intrabony defects

Background:

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), an intimate assembly of cytokines, glycan chains, and structural glycoproteins enmeshed within a slowly polymerized fibrin network, has the potential to accelerate soft and hard tissue healing. The purpose of the study was to clinically evaluate and compare the efficacy of autologous PRF combined with demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft (DFDBA) to DFDBA alone in the treatment of periodontal intrabony defects.

Materials and Methods:

In a split mouth study design, 10 patients having two almost identical intrabony defects with clinical probing depth of at least 6 mm were selected for the study. Selected sites were randomly divided into two groups. In Group I, mucoperiosteal flap elevation followed by the placement of DFDBA was done. In Group II, mucoperiosteal flap elevation followed by the placement of homogeneous mixture of PRF with DFDBA was done. Clinical and radiographic parameters were recorded at baseline and at 6 months post-operatively.

Results:

Both treatment groups showed a significant probing pocket depth reduction, clinical attachment gain, defect fill, and defect resolution 6 months after surgery compared to baseline. However, there was a significantly greater probing pocket depth reduction and clinical attachment gain when PRF was added to DFDBA.

Conclusion:

Within limits of the study it may be concluded that a combination of PRF with DFDBA demonstrated better results in probing pocket depth reduction and clinical attachment level gain as compared to DFDBA alone in the treatment of periodontal intrabony defects.

Newly forming bone graft: a novel surgical approach to the treatment of denuded roots

Many techniques have been proposed for root coverage. However, none of them presents predictable results in deep and wide recessions.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this case series report is to describe an alternative technique for root coverage at sites showing deep recessions and attachment loss >4 mm at buccal sites.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Four patients presenting deep recession defects at buccal sites (>4 mm) were treated by the newly forming bone graft technique, which consists in the creation of an alveolar socket at edentulous ridge and transferring of granulation tissue present in this socket to the recession defect after 21 days. Clinical periodontal parameters, including recession depth (RD), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque index (PI) and keratinized gingiva width (KGW) were evaluated by a single examiner immediately before surgery and at 1, 3, 6 and 9 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

All cases showed reduction in RD and PD, along with CAL gain, although no increase in KGW could be observed. These findings suggest that the technique could favor periodontal regeneration along with root coverage, especially in areas showing deep recessions and attachment loss.

Advanced reconstructive technologies for periodontal tissue repair

Reconstructive therapies to promote the regeneration of lost periodontal support have been investigated through both preclinical and clinical studies. Advanced regenerative technologies using new barrier-membrane techniques, cell-growth-stimulating proteins or gene-delivery applications have entered the clinical arena. Wound-healing approaches using growth factors to target the restoration of tooth-supporting bone, periodontal ligament and cementum are shown to significantly advance the field of periodontal-regenerative medicine. Topical delivery of growth factors, such as platelet-derived growth factor, fibroblast growth factor or bone morphogenetic proteins, to periodontal wounds has demonstrated promising results. Future directions in the delivery of growth factors or other signaling models involve the development of innovative scaffolding matrices, cell therapy and gene transfer, and these issues are discussed in this paper.

Clinical evaluation of alloderm for root coverage and colour match

BACKGROUND

Predictable root coverage and good colour match are the major therapeutic end points in the treatment of gingival recession. Alloderm has been used as a substitute to connective tissue graft, but its colour match in populations with a high degree of melanin pigmentation has not been extensively studied. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an Acellular dermal matrix graft for root coverage procedures and to objectively analyze the post-operative esthetics using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Both male and female patients were selected, aged 20-50 years presenting with aesthetic problems due to the exposure of recession defects when smiling. A total of 14 patients contributed to 15 sites, each site falling into Miller's class I or class II gingival recession.

RESULTS

A total of 15 sites were treated and a mean coverage of (85.56±21.70 and 83.33±21.82%) was obtained at the end of 3(rd) and 12(th) month respectively. A mean VAS score of 7.93±1.03 and 8.13±0.99 (3(rd) and 12(th) month) and 5.73±0.70 and 6.87±0.83 (3(rd) and 12(th) month) was obtained when the colour match recorded by the patients and an independent observer, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The study showed that acellular dermal matrix graft (alloderm) may be successfully used to treat gingival recession, as adequate root coverage may be predictably obtained. The grafted areas underwent melanization from the 6(th) month onwards and complete blending with the adjacent sites was obtained at 1 year.

Clinical evaluation of the efficacy of a GTR membrane (HEALIGUIDE) and demineralised bone matrix (OSSEOGRAFT) as a space maintainer in the treatment of Miller's Class I gingival recession

Background:

Periodontal plastic surgical procedures aimed at coverage of exposed root surface have evolved into routine treatment modalities. The present study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness and predictability of using a collagen barrier along with a demineralized bone matrix in the treatment of recession defects in a single surgical procedure.

Materials and Methods:

Seventeen patients with Miller's class I recession were treated with a combination of a collagen barrier used along with a bone graft and coronally advanced flap technique. Clinical parameters were recorded at baseline, 3 months, 6 months, and 9 months.

Results:

The study showed a highly significant reduction in the recession depth (70.29 ± 21.96%) at the end of the study. This study showed that the use of this technique for recession coverage is highly predictable and highly esthetic root coverage can be obtained.

Treatment of gingival recession with collagen membrane and DFDBA: a histometric study in dogs

In a previous study, we evaluated the findings related to the use of resorbable collagen membranes in humans along with DFDBA (demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft). The aim of this subsequent study was to histometrically evaluate in dogs, the healing response of gingival recessions treated with collagen membrane + DFDBA (Guided Tissue Regeneration, GTR) compared to a coronally positioned flap (CPF). Two types of treatment were randomly carried out in a split-mouth study. Group 1 was considered as test (GTR: collagen membrane + DFDBA), whereas Group 2 stood for the control (only CPF). The dogs were given chemical bacterial plaque control with 0.2% chlorhexidine digluconate during a 90-day repair period. Afterwards, the animals were killed to obtain biopsies and histometric evaluation of the process of cementum and bone formation, epithelial migration and gingival level. A statistically significant difference was found between groups with a larger extension of neoformed cementum (GTR = 32.72%; CPF = 18.82%; p = 0.0004), new bone (GTR = 23.20%; CPF = 09.90%; p = 0.0401) and with a smaller area of residual gingival recession in the test group (GTR = 50.69%; CPF = 59.73%; p = 0.0055) compared to the control group. The only item assessed that showed no statistical difference was epithelial proliferation on the root surface, with means of 15.14% for the GTR group and 20.34% for the CPF group (p = 0.0890). Within the limits of this study we concluded that the treatment of gingival recession defects with GTR, associating collagen membrane with DFDBA, showed better outcomes in terms of a larger extension of neoformed cementum and bone, as well as in terms of a smaller proportion of residual recessions.

Soft tissue volume augmentation by the use of collagen-based matrices: a volumetric analysis

OBJECTIVES

The aim was to test whether or not soft tissue augmentation with a newly developed collagen matrix (CM) leads to volume gain in chronic ridge defects similar to those obtained by an autogenous subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In six dogs, soft tissue volume augmentation was performed by randomly allocating three treatment modalities to chronic ridge defects (CM, SCTG, sham-operated control). Impressions were taken before augmentation (baseline), at 28, and 84 days. The obtained casts were optically scanned and the images were digitally analysed. A defined region of interest was measured in all sites and the volume differences between the time points were calculated.

RESULTS

The mean volume differences per area between baseline and 28 days amounted to a gain of 1.6 mm (CM; SD+/-0.9), 1.5 mm (SCTG; +/-0.1), and a loss of 0.003 mm (control; +/-0.3). At 84 days, the mean volume differences per area to baseline measured a gain of 1.4 mm (CM; +/-1.1), 1.4 mm (SCTG; +/-0.4), and a loss of 0.3 mm (control; +/-0.3). The differences between CM and SCTG were statistically significant compared with control at 28 and 84 days (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Within the limits of this animal study, the CM may serve as a replacement for autogenous connective tissue.

Guided tissue regeneration-based root coverage with a platelet concentrate graft: a 3-year follow-up case series

BACKGROUND

A platelet concentrate graft (PCG) was applied underneath the barrier membrane in guided tissue regeneration (GTR)-based root coverage procedures. The purpose of this case study was to assess the effectiveness of the technique and the long-term outcomes.

METHODS

Thirty-seven Miller Class I or II recession defects in six patients were treated using the PCG and a collagen membrane covered by an advanced mucogingival flap. Clinical parameters, such as vertical gingival recession depth (VRD), clinical attachment level (CAL), probing depth (PD), and width of keratinized tissue (WKT), were recorded presurgery (at baseline [BL]) and at 6 and 36 months of follow-up. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Mann-Whitney test were used to assess statistical significance (alpha = 0.05).

RESULTS

Between BL and 6 months, there was a statistically significant reduction in VRD (from 2.81 +/- 0.88 mm to 0.30 +/- 0.48 mm) and PD (from 2.59 +/- 0.50 mm to 1.14 +/- 0.35 mm), as well as an improvement in CAL (from 5.41 +/- 0.86 mm to 1.43 +/- 0.66 mm). These results remained stable over the following 30 months. There was no statistically significant change in WKT during the initial 6 months; however, the increase in WKT was statistically significant at the 36-month follow-up. When comparing the healing between the maxillary and mandibular teeth at 6 months, the VRD reduction was statistically significantly greater in the maxillary teeth, but the difference was not statistically significant 30 months later. The average root coverage at 6 and 36 months was 89.86% +/- 15.85% and 85.86% +/- 18.16%, respectively, with complete root coverage in 24 (64.86%) and 21 (56.76%) of the 37 teeth.

CONCLUSIONS

The GTR-based technique using PCG was effective in reducing gingival recession. The outcomes remained stable for 3 years.

Root coverage procedures for the treatment of localised recession-type defects

BACKGROUND

Gingival recession is defined as the oral exposure of the root surface due to a displacement of the gingival margin apical to the cemento-enamel junction and it is regularly linked to the deterioration of dental aesthetics. Successful treatment of recession-type defects is based on the use of predictable periodontal plastic surgery (PPS) procedures.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness of different root coverage procedures in the treatment of recession-type defects.

SEARCH STRATEGY

The Cochrane Oral Health Group's Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched up to October 2008. The main international periodontal journals were handsearched. There were no restrictions with regard to publication status or language of publication.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Only randomised controlled clinical trials (RCTs) of at least 6 months' duration evaluating recession areas (Miller's Class I or II > 3 mm) and that were treated by means of PPS procedures were included.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Screening of eligible studies, assessment of the methodological quality of the trials and data extraction were conducted independently and in duplicate. Authors were contacted for any missing information. Results were expressed as random-effects models using mean differences for continuous outcomes and risk ratios for dichotomous outcomes with 95% confidence intervals.

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty-four RCTs provided data. Only one trial was considered to be at low risk of bias. The remaining trials were considered to be at high risk of bias. The results indicated a significant greater reduction in gingival recession and gain in keratinized tissue for subepithelial connective tissue grafts (SCTG) compared to guided tissue regeneration with resorbable membranes (GTR rm). A significant greater gain in the keratinized tissue was found for enamel matrix protein when compared to coronally advanced flap (0.40 mm) and for SCTG when compared to GTR rm plus bone substitutes. Limited data exist on aesthetic condition change related to patients' opinion and patients' preference for a specific procedure.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Subepithelial connective tissue grafts, coronally advanced flap alone or associated with other biomaterial and guided tissue regeneration may be used as root coverage procedures for the treatment of localised recession-type defects. In cases where both root coverage and gain in the keratinized tissue are expected, the use of subepithelial connective tissue grafts seems to be more adequate. Randomised controlled clinical trials are necessary to identify possible factors associated with the prognosis of each PPS procedure. The potential impact of bias on these outcomes is unclear.

Treatment of gingival recession with coronally advanced flap procedures: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The treatment of buccal gingival recessions is a common requirement due to aesthetic concern or root sensitivity. The aim of this manuscript was to systematically review the literature on coronally advanced flap (CAF) alone or in combination with tissue grafts, barrier membranes (BM), enamel matrix derivative (EMD) or other material for treating gingival recession.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Randomized clinical trials on treatment of Miller Class I and II gingival recessions with at least 6 months of follow-up were identified. Data sources included electronic databases and hand-searched journals. The primary outcome variable was complete root coverage (CRC). The secondary outcome variables were recession reduction, clinical attachment gain, keratinized tissue gain, aesthetic satisfaction, root sensitivity, post-operative patient pain and complications.

RESULTS

A total of 794 Miller Class I and II gingival recessions in 530 patients from 25 RCTs were evaluated in this systematic review. CAF was associated with mean recession reduction and CRC. The addition of connective tissue graft (CTG) or EMD enhanced the clinical outcomes of CAF in terms of CRC, while BM did not. The results with respect to the adjunctive use of acellular dermal matrix were controversial.

CONCLUSIONS

CTG or EMD in conjunction with CAF enhances the probability of obtaining CRC in Miller Class I and II single gingival recessions.

In vitro osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells and in vivo bone formation in composite nanofiber meshes

Tissue engineering has become an alternative method to traditional surgical treatments for the repair of bone defects, and an appropriate scaffold supporting bone formation is a key element in this approach. In the present study, nanofibrous organic and inorganic composite scaffolds containing nano-sized demineralized bone powders (DBPs) with biodegradable poly(L-lactide) (PLA) were developed using an electrospinning process for engineering bone. To assess their biocompatibility, in vitro osteogenic differentiation of human mandible-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) cultured on PLA or PLA/DBP composite nanofiber scaffolds were examined. The mineralization of hMSCs cultured with osteogenic supplements on the PLA/DBP nanofiber scaffolds was remarkably greater than on the PLA nanofiber scaffold during the first 14 days of culture but reached the same level after 21 days. The in vivo osteoconductive effect of PLA/DBP nanofibrous scaffolds was further investigated using rats with critical-sized skull defects. Micro-computerized tomography revealed that a greater amount of newly formed bone extended across the defect area in PLA/DBP scaffolds than in the nonimplant and PLA scaffolds 12 weeks after implantation and that the defect size was almost 90% smaller. Therefore, PLA/DBP composite nanofiber scaffolds may serve as a favorable matrix for the regeneration of bone tissue.

Matrices and scaffolds for drug delivery in dental, oral and craniofacial tissue engineering

Current treatments for diseases and trauma of dental, oral and craniofacial (DOC) structures rely on durable materials such as amalgam and synthetic materials, or autologous tissue grafts. A paradigm shift has taken place to utilize tissue engineering and drug delivery approaches towards the regeneration of these structures. Several prototypes of DOC structures have been regenerated such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) condyle, cranial sutures, tooth structures and periodontium components. However, many challenges remain when taking in consideration the high demand for esthetics of DOC structures, the complex environment and yet minimal scar formation in the oral cavity, and the need for accommodating multiple tissue phenotypes. This review highlights recent advances in the regeneration of DOC structures, including the tooth, periodontium, TMJ, cranial sutures and implant dentistry, with specific emphasis on controlled release of signaling cues for stem cells, biomaterial matrices and scaffolds, and integrated tissue engineering approaches.

Gene therapeutics for periodontal regenerative medicine

There has been significant advancement in the field of periodontal tissue engineering over the past decade for the repair of tooth-supporting structures. Although encouraging results for periodontal tissue regeneration have been found in numerous clinical investigations using recombinant growth factors, limitations exist with topical protein delivery. Newer approaches seek to develop methodologies that optimize growth factor targeting to maximize the therapeutic outcome of periodontal regenerative procedures. Genetic approaches in periodontal tissue engineering show early progress in achieving delivery of growth factor genes, such as platelet-derived growth factor or bone morphogenetic protein, to periodontal lesions. Ongoing investigations in ex vivo and in vivo gene transfer to periodontia seek to examine the extent of the potential effects in stimulating periodontal tissue engineering.

Oral reconstructive and corrective considerations in periodontal therapy

This paper was prepared by the Research, Science and Therapy Committee of the American Academy of Periodontology. It is intended to provide information for the dental profession and other interested parties. The purpose of this paper is to provide a general overview of oral reconstructive and corrective procedures used in periodontal therapy. It is not intended to be a comprehensive review of this subject.

Coverage of Miller Class I and II Recession Defects Using Enamel Matrix Proteins Versus Coronally Advanced Flap Technique: A 2-Year Report

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate a comparison of the coronally advanced flap procedure with or without the use of enamel matrix proteins in the treatment of recession defects.

METHODS

This 2-year study was conducted as a blinded, split-mouth, placebo-controlled, and randomized design. Thirty patients from two dental schools with two paired buccal recession defects were chosen. Surgical recession coverage was performed as the coronally advanced flap technique. One site was additionally treated with derivative (EMD) and the other site with a placebo (propylene glycol alginate [PGA]). A blinded examiner assessed pre- and post-surgical measurements. Measurements comprised the height and width of the gingival recession, height of keratinized tissue, probing attachment level, probing depth, and alveolar bone level.

RESULTS

Twenty-four months after therapy, both treatment modalities showed significant root coverage and probing attachment gain. The mean gingival recession decreased from 3.6 to 0.8 mm for the EMD-treated sites and from 3.8 to 1.4 mm for the control sites. However, this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.122). Similarly, all other clinical parameters did not differ significantly in the between-group comparison except for the recession width (P = 0.027) and probing depth (P = 0.046) exhibiting higher reductions in the EMD group. Complete root coverage could be maintained over 2 years in 53% of the EMD versus merely 23% in the control group. A total of 47% of the treated recessions in the control group deteriorated again in the second year after therapy compared to 22% in the EMD group.

CONCLUSION

Enamel matrix derivative seems to provide better long-term results.

Position Paper: Periodontal Regeneration

Untreated periodontal disease leads to tooth loss through destruction of the attachment apparatus and tooth-supporting structures. The goals of periodontal therapy include not only the arrest of periodontal disease progression,but also the regeneration of structures lost to disease where appropriate. Conventional surgical approaches (e.g., flap debridement) continue to offer time-tested and reliable methods to access root surfaces,reduce periodontal pockets, and attain improved periodontal form/architecture. However, these techniques offer only limited potential towards recovering tissues destroyed during earlier disease phases. Recently, surgical procedures aimed at greater and more predictable regeneration of periodontal tissues and functional attachment close to their original level have been developed, analyzed, and employed in clinical practice. This paper provides a review of the current understanding of the mechanisms, cells, and factors required for regeneration of the periodontium and of procedures used to restore periodontal tissues around natural teeth. Targeted audiences for this paper are periodontists and/or researchers with an interest in improving the predictability of regenerative procedures. This paper replaces the version published in 1993.