Enamel matrix proteins in the treatment of intra-bony defects. A prospective 24-month clinical trial

Enamel Matrix Derivative (EMD) as an Adjunct to Non-surgical Periodontal Therapy: A Systematic Review

If left untreated, periodontitis is a chronic, irreversible disease that can contribute to tooth loss. The primary objective of periodontal treatment is to arrest the progression of the disease and restore the supporting structures of the tooth. Scaling and root planing (SRP) is a common non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) used to reduce inflammation, pocket depth, and clinical attachment loss. However, NSPT has limitations, notably in difficult-to-access deep pockets and molar furcations. Deep pockets (greater than 4 mm) frequently retain calculus following NSPT. To attain direct access, surgical periodontal therapy (SPT) is recommended, particularly for pockets deeper than 5 mm. Enamel matrix derivative (EMD) has emerged in recent years as a tool for periodontal regeneration when used in conjunction with NSP for infrabony defects. EMD may also have advantageous effects when combined with NSPT. The purpose of this review is to provide a thorough understanding of the effects of EMD as an adjunct to NSPT. The databases Scopus, PubMed/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Cochrane, and Embase were systematically searched to identify relevant studies on the benefits of EMD and its use as an adjunct to NSPT. Incorporating EMD into NSPT reduces chair time, and 60% of studies demonstrated considerable benefits compared to SRP alone, according to the findings. On the basis of research, it can be concluded that EMD can be used as an adjunct to NSPT, thereby reducing the amount of time spent in the operating chair. In some cases, it can, therefore, be regarded as an alternative to surgical treatment.

Injectable platelet-rich fibrin with demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft compared to demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft in intrabony defects of patients with stage-III periodontitis: a randomized controlled clinical trial

Aim

The current randomized controlled clinical trial assessed the effect of injectable platelet-rich fibrin (I-PRF) combined with demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft (DFDBA) compared to DFDBA alone in the management of intrabony defects of stage-III periodontitis patients.

Methodology

Following sample size calculation, twenty stage-III periodontitis patients with ≥ 5 mm clinical attachment level (CAL)-loss and ≥ 3 mm intrabony defects were randomized into test (I-PRF + DFDBA; n = 10) and control (DFDBA; n = 10) groups. CAL (primary outcome), periodontal probing depth (PPD), gingival recession depth (GRD), full-mouth plaque scores (FMPS), full-mouth bleeding scores (FMBS), radiographic linear defect depth (RLDD), and bone fill (secondary outcomes) were examined at baseline, 3, 6, and 9 months post-surgically.

Results

I-PRF + DFDBA and DFDBA independently demonstrated significant intragroup CAL-gain, PPD-, and RLDD-reduction at 3, 6, and 9 months (p < 0.05), with no significant intergroup differences observed (p > 0.05). CAL-gain (mean ± SD) of 2.40 ± 0.70 mm and 2.50 ± 0.85 mm and PPD-reduction of 3.50 ± 1.18 mm and 2.80 ± 0.42 mm were demonstrated for I-PRF + DFDBA and DFDBA at 9 months respectively. Both groups showed significant intragroup RLDD improvement, with a RLDD of 3.58 ± 0.66 mm and 3.89 ± 1.57 mm for I-PRF + DFDBA and DFDBA at 9 months respectively. Stepwise linear regression analysis revealed that baseline RLDD and bone fill at 9 months were significant predictors of CAL (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Within the present study’s limitations, DFDBA with or without I-PRF resulted in significant improvement in clinical and radiographic periodontal parameters in the surgical treatment of periodontal intrabony defects of stage-III periodontitis patients. Addition of I-PRF to DFDBA does not appear to significantly enhance the DFDBA’s reparative/regenerative outcomes.

Clinical relevance

Within the current study’s limitations, routinely adding I-PRF to DFDBA cannot be recommended to significantly improve DFDBA’s treatment outcomes in intrabony defects.

Efficacy of biologics for the treatment of periodontal infrabony defects: An American Academy of Periodontology best evidence systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

A large variety of biomaterials, biologics and membranes have been utilized in the past 40 years for the regenerative treatment of periodontal infrabony defects. Biologic agents have progressively gained popularity among clinicians and are routinely used for periodontal regeneration. In alignment with the goals of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) Best Evidence Consensus (BEC) on the use of biologic mediators in contemporary clinical practice, the aim of this sytematic review was to evaluate the effect of biologic agents, specifically autogenous blood-dervied products (ABPs), enamel matrix derivative (EMD) and recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor-BB (rhPDGF-BB), on the regenerative outcomes of infrabony defects.

METHODS

A detailed systematic search was conducted to identify eligible randomized control trials (RCTs) reporting the outcomes of periodontal regenerative therapy using biologics for the treatment of infrabony defects. A frequentist mixed-modeling approach to network meta-analysis (NMA), characterized by the assessment of three individual components for the treatment of an infrabony defect (the bone graft material [BG], the biologic agent, the application of a barrier membrane) was performed to evaluate and compare the relative efficacy of the different components, on the outcomes of different therapeutic modalities of periodontal regeneration.

RESULTS

A total of 153 eligible RCTs were included, with 150 studies contributing to the NMA. The quantitative analysis showed that the addition of biologic agents to bone graft significantly improves the clinical and radiographic outcomes, as compared to BG and flap procedures alone. Barrier membranes enhanced the regenerative outcomes of BG but did not provide further benefits in combination with biologics. The type of BG (autogenous, allogeneic, xenogeneic or alloplastic) and the biologic agent (EMD, platelet-rich fibrin [PRF], platelet-rich plasma [PRP] or rhPDGF-BB) played a significant role on the final outcomes of infrabony defects. Allogeneic and xenogeneic BGs exhibited statistically significantly superior clinical gain than synthetic and autogenous BGs (p < 0.05 in all the comparisons), while rhPDGF-BB and PRF demonstrated significantly higher stability of the gingival margin (p < 0.01) and radiographic bone fill/gain (p < 0.05), together with greater, although not statistically significant, clinical attachment level gain and pocket depth reduction, than EMD and PRP. Overall, rhPDGF-BB exhibited the largest effect size for most parameters, including clinical attachment level gain, pocket depth reduction, less gingival recession and radiographic linear bone gain. Considering the relatively high number of trials presenting an unclear or high risk of bias, the strength of recommendation supporting the use of PRP was judged weak, while the recommendation for EMD, PRF and rhPDGF-BB was deemed in favor.

CONCLUSIONS

Biologics enhance the outcomes of periodontal regenerative therapy. Combination therapies involving BGs + biologics or BGs + barrier membrane demonstrated to be superior to monotherapies. The choice of the type of BG and biologic agent seems to have significant impact on the clinical and radiographic outcomes of infrabony defects.

Adjunctive Effect of Systemic Antibiotics in Regenerative/Reconstructive Periodontal Surgery-A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis

Background and Objective: Systemic antibiotics (AB) are often used in conjunction with regenerative/reconstructive periodontal surgery of intrabony defects and furcations; however, their potential benefits have not been systematically assessed. Materials and Methods: Data were retrieved from two recent systematic reviews (a total of 105 randomized clinical trials (RCTs) on clinical and radiographic outcomes in intrabony defects (ID) and molars with furcation involvement (FI) treated by surgical access with regenerative techniques. Pair-wise meta-analysis of RCTs with and without AB was performed. Meta-regressions from single-arm (subgroup) RCTs including study arms with or without adjunctive AB were also conducted. Results: No statistically significant benefits of systemic AB with regard to PPD, CAL and bone gain were detected in ID by pair-wise meta-analysis. Meta-regression revealed increased PPD reduction (−0.91 mm, 95% CI = −1.30; −0.51, p < 0.001), CAL gain (−0.92 mm, 95% CI = −1.32; −0.52, p < 0.001) and bone gain (−1.08 mm, 95% CI = −1.63; −0.53, p < 0.001) in ID but not in any of the outcomes in FI for arms treated with AB vs. study arms treated with no AB. No clear differences in adverse events were detected between AB and non-AB groups. Conclusion: There is only weak indirect evidence that AB may provide additional benefits in terms of clinical improvements in the regenerative/reconstructive periodontal surgery of intrabony defects and no evidence for a benefit in furcations. Until new data are gained and in the context of antibiotic stewardship, it may be questionable to justify the adjunctive use of systemic antibiotics.

Treatment of intrabony periodontal defects in controlled diabetic patients with an enamel matrix derivative: a split-mouth randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

This split-mouth randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effect of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) associated with a simplified papilla preservation flap (SPPF) compared to SPPF alone in the surgical treatment of intrabony defects (ID) in type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirteen patients with controlled T2DM presenting with ID in at least two quadrants were included. In each patient, the test site (TS) was treated with SPPF plus EMD, whereas the control site (CS) was treated only with SPPF. Prior to surgery and at 6 months after intervention, the following parameters were evaluated: clinical attachment level (CAL), probing pocket depth (PPD), and gingival recession (GR).

RESULTS

The TS and CS demonstrated a mean CAL gain of 3.31 ± 0.96 mm and 1.61 ± 1.12 mm, and a PPD reduction from 8.15 ± 0.98 to 3.00 ± 0.57 mm and 7.53 ± 0.96 to 4.69 ± 0.63 mm after 6 months, respectively. In both sites, the mean CAL gain and PPD reduction improved significantly after 6 months compared to baseline; however, the improvement was higher in the TS (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Both surgical procedures presented with clinical improvements in controlled T2DM patients. However, the additional use of EMD showed enhanced clinical results after 6 months with regard to CAL gain and PPD reduction.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This study showed a better PPD reduction and CAL gain when an EMD was applied in addition to SPPF. Therefore, EMD may be used to enhance clinical outcomes in periodontal ID of controlled T2DM patients.

Cemental tear: Literature review, proposed classification and recommendations for treatment

Cemental tears are an important condition of relevance to Endodontics but are often overlooked. A cemental tear is the partial or complete detachment of the cementum from the cemento-dentinal junction or along the incremental line within the body of cementum. The limited attention received is most likely due to the limited awareness amongst dental professionals and challenges in accurately diagnosing them, resulting in misdiagnosis and erroneous treatment. The aim of this review is to describe the: (i) epidemiology and predisposing factors; (ii) clinical, radiographic and histological features and (iii) the clinical management and treatment outcomes of cemental tear. The review included 37 articles published in English that comprised eight observational studies and 29 case reports. The prevalence of cemental tears was reported to be lower than 2%; whilst the incidence remains unknown. Internal factors due to the inherent structural weakness of cementum and its interface with the dentine, and external factors that are associated with stress have been proposed as the two mechanisms responsible for the development and propagation of cemental tears. Predisposing factors that have been implicated were tooth type, gender, age, previous root canal treatment, history of dental trauma, occlusal trauma and excessive occlusal force; however, evidence is limited. Common clinical and radiographic manifestations of cemental tears resemble the presentations of primary endodontic diseases, primary periodontal diseases and combined endodontic-periodontal lesions. Clinical management tended to focus on complete removal of the torn fragments and periodontal treatment, often combined with regenerative treatment. In this article, a new classification for cemental tears is developed that consists of classes 0 to 6 and stages A, B, C and D based on the: (i) location and accessibility of the torn cemental fragment; (ii) the pattern and extension of the associated bony defect in relation to the root length and (iii) the number of root surface/s affected by the cemental tear/s and the associated bony defect. Recommendations for treatment strategies are also provided and linked to the classification to aid in streamlining the process of treatment decision making.

Clinical and radiographic effects of ascorbic acid-augmented platelet-rich fibrin versus platelet-rich fibrin alone in intra-osseous defects of stage-III periodontitis patients: a randomized controlled clinical trial

Aim

To assess platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) with ascorbic acid (AA) versus PRF in intra-osseous defects of stage-III periodontitis patients.

Methodology

Twenty stage-III/grade C periodontitis patients, with ≥ 3 mm intra-osseous defects, were randomized into test (open flap debridement (OFD)+AA/PRF; n = 10) and control (OFD+PRF; n = 10). Clinical attachment level (CAL; primary outcome), probing pocket depth (PPD), gingival recession depth (RD), full-mouth bleeding scores (FMBS), full-mouth plaque scores (FMPS), radiographic linear defect depth (RLDD) and radiographic defect bone density (RDBD) (secondary-outcomes) were examined at baseline, 3 and 6 months post-surgically.

Results

OFD+AA/PRF and OFD+PRF demonstrated significant intragroup CAL gain and PPD reduction at 3 and 6 months (p < 0.001). OFD+AA/PRF and OFD+PRF showed no differences regarding FMBS or FMPS (p > 0.05). OFD+AA/PRF demonstrated significant RD reduction of 0.90 ± 0.50 mm and 0.80 ± 0.71 mm at 3 and 6 months, while OFD+PRF showed RD reduction of 0.10 ± 0.77 mm at 3 months, with an RD-increase of 0.20 ± 0.82 mm at 6 months (p < 0.05). OFD+AA/PRF and OFD+PRF demonstrated significant RLDD reduction (2.29 ± 0.61 mm and 1.63 ± 0.46 mm; p < 0.05) and RDBD-increase (14.61 ± 5.39% and 12.58 ± 5.03%; p > 0.05). Stepwise linear regression analysis showed that baseline RLDD and FMBS at 6 months were significant predictors of CAL reduction (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

OFD+PRF with/without AA significantly improved periodontal parameters 6 months post-surgically. Augmenting PRF with AA additionally enhanced gingival tissue gain and radiographic defect fill.

Clinical relevance

PRF, with or without AA, could significantly improve periodontal parameters. Supplementing PRF with AA could additionally augment radiographic linear defect fill and reduce gingival recession depth.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00784-021-03929-1.

Periodontal regeneration: a bibliometric analysis of the most influential studies

Aim: The aim of the present study is to identify the most influential research articles and their main characteristics in the specialty of periodontal regeneration. Materials & methods: The Web of Science database advance search was performed in the subject category of 'Dentistry, Oral surgery and medicine' from January 2004 to October 2018 to retrieve citations data. Results: The majority of the articles were published in journals dedicated to the specialty of periodontology. Among the top-cited articles most emphasized study types were randomized control trials (n = 25) and reviews (n = 20). Conclusion: The present bibliometric analysis provides comprehensive information regarding the contributions made in the advancement of regenerative periodontal research. The authors from developed countries and affiliated with interdisciplinary/multicenter institutions have predominantly contributed.

Periodontal Regenerative Treatment of Intrabony Defects Associated with Palatal Grooves: A Report of Two Cases

A palatal radicular groove (PRG) is a morphological deformity, occurring during tooth development. It is usually located on the palatal aspect of maxillary incisors and frequently associated with periodontal or endodontic-periodontal lesions. Some treatment options were described for such lesions, including primary endodontic treatment and periodontal surgery and extraction with intentional replantation after removal of a PRG and endodontic treatment. The present paper reported two cases of PRG-associated deep intrabony defects, successfully treated with periodontal surgery with enamel matrix derivative (EMD) application and mechanical removal of PRGs, avoiding endodontic treatment or retreatment. The complexity of the diagnostic process was also discussed.

Enamel matrix derivative for the treatment of partially contained intrabony defects: 12-month results

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to evaluate the use of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) alone or in association with deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) for the treatment of partially contained intrabony defects.

METHODS

A total of 20 two-walled intrabony defects belonging to nine patients were included. Ten defects were treated with EMD alone (test group 1) and the other 10 were treated with EMD and DBBM (test group 2), applying either modified papilla preservation technique or simplified papilla preservation technique.

RESULTS

Twelve months after surgery, in the test group 1, PD was 2.8 ± 0.8 mm, REC was 2.3 ± 2.4 mm and CAL was 5.0 ± 2.8 mm, significantly reduced from baseline values (P < 0.05). Likewise, in test group 2, PD, REC and CAL reduced to 3.0 ± 0.7 mm, 3.9 ± 1.5 mm and 6.9 ± 1.1 mm respectively, from baseline values at 12 months (P < 0.05). No significant differences between groups were found.

CONCLUSIONS

The results showed that the use of EMD alone and the use of a combination of EMD and DBBM for the treatment of partially contained defects showed comparable clinical and radiographic outcomes after 12 months.

Prevalence of intrabony defects in a Swedish adult population. A radiographic epidemiological study

AIM

The purpose of this radiographic study was to evaluate the prevalence of intrabony defects and to study the correlation between these defects and clinical variables in a Swedish adult population. Another aim was to study the combined relationship of intrabony defects and furcation involvement with clinical variables.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present study was performed using bitewing and apical radiographs from 329 subjects. The clinical and radiographic data were collected from the study that was carried out in Jönköping 2003. Intrabony defects were measured from the bottom of the pocket to the highest point of alveolar bone crest. Furcations were considered healthy if the furcation was filled with bone up to the fornix. SPSS was used to analyze the results.

RESULTS

2014 molars and 5898 non-molars were included in the study. The prevalence of intrabony defects was 2.2% in the whole population. Multivariate analysis showed that periodontal pockets (p < 0.0001), plaque (p < 0.001), age (p < 0.02) and gender (p < 0.03) had a significant relationship with the occurrence of intrabony defects. On the other hand, gingivitis, smoking habits and education level were not associated with intrabony defects. Multivariate analysis showed that the only variable associated with presence of intrabony defects and furcation involvement was presence of periodontal pockets (p < 0.0001). Whilst, gingivitis, education level, plaque, gender, age and smoking habits were not associated with the outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Mandibular second molars were most likely to display intrabony defects, whilst mandibular incisors were the least likely to do so.

Evaluation of the adjunctive effect of platelet-rich fibrin to enamel matrix derivative in the treatment of intrabony defects. Six-month results of a randomized, split-mouth, controlled clinical study

AIM

This study aimed to compare the results obtained with enamel matrix derivative (EMD) and EMD + platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) in the treatment of intrabony defects (IBDs) in chronic periodontitis patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using a split-mouth design, 28 paired IBDs were randomly treated either with EMD or with EMD + PRF. Clinical and radiographic measurements including clinical attachment level (CAL), probing depth (PD), gingival recession (GR), defect depth (DD), defect width (DW) and defect angle (DA) were recorded at baseline (BL) and at six months following therapy.

RESULTS

BL clinical and radiographic measurements were similar for EMD and EMD + PRF groups. Although postsurgical measurements revealed significant reduction for PD and CAL in both groups, no intergroup difference was detected. When EMD and EMD + PRF groups were compared, defect fill was not also statistically different.

CONCLUSIONS

Both therapies resulted in significant clinical improvement in IBD treatment. Addition of PRF did not improve the clinical and radiographic outcomes.

A novel flapless approach versus minimally invasive surgery in periodontal regeneration with enamel matrix derivative proteins: a 24-month randomized controlled clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

This investigation was designed to compare the effectiveness of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) proteins in combination with flapless or flap procedure in periodontal regeneration of deep intrabony defects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty chronic periodontitis patients who had at least one residual periodontal defect with an intrabony component of ≥3 mm were consecutively enrolled. Defects were randomly assigned to test or control treatments which both consisted of the use of EMD to reach periodontal regeneration. Test sites (n = 15) were treated according to a novel flapless approach, whereas control sites (n = 15) by means of minimally invasive surgery (MIST). Clinical and radiographic parameters were recorded at baseline, 12 and 24 months post-operatively.

RESULTS

Both therapeutic modalities yielded similar probing depth (PD) reduction and clinical attachment level (CAL) gain at 24 months. In flapless-treated sites, a mean PD reduction of 3.6 ± 1.0 mm and a CAL gain of 3.2 ± 1.1 mm were observed. In the MIST group, they were 3.7 ± 0.6 and 3.6 ± 0.9 mm. The operative chair time was twice as long in the MIST compared to the flapless group, whereas comparable patient-oriented outcomes were observed.

CONCLUSION

The flapless procedure may be successfully applied in the regenerative treatment of deep intrabony defects reaching clinical outcomes comparable with those of minimally invasive surgical approaches and may present important advantages in terms of reduction of operative chair time.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The use of EMD as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal treatment may be considered a suitable option to treat defects mainly in the anterior sextants.

Do the clinical effects of enamel matrix derivatives in infrabony defects decrease overtime? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Previous systematic reviews have demonstrated better results with enamel matrix derivative proteins (EMDP) as compared with open flap debridement (OFD) for the management of infrabony periodontal defects (IPD). The aim of this study was to determine whether these differences vary according to the follow-up and quality of the studies. Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Medline/PubMed, Lilacs, Embase and Web of Science electronic databases were searched up to August 2013 for randomized clinical trials.Eligible outcomes were changes in probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL),gingival recession (GR) and bone changes (BC). Studies with follow-up of 12 months showed differences of 0.97 mm (CI95% 0.52 - 1.43) and 1.19 mm (CI95% 0.77 - 1.60) for PD and CAL, respectively, favorable for EMDP. Studies with follow-up ≥ 24 months presented advantages of 1.11 mm (CI95% 0.74 -1.48) for CAL and 0.83 mm (CI95% 0.19 -1.48) for PD,with use of EMDP. Considering the quality of studies, those with low risk of bias showed lower difference between groups, presenting 0.8 mm (CI95% 0.24-1.36) for CAL, favorable for EMDP and without differences for PS (0.51 mm, CI95% -0.21 - 1.23). In conclusion, follow-up time (< or > 2 years) and the risk of bias influence the results of treatment with EMDP in IPD.

Root Surface Bio-modification with Erbium Lasers- A Myth or a Reality??

The objective of this literature review was to critically review the evidence available in the literature regarding the expediency of erbium family of lasers for root bio modification as a part of periodontal therapy. The literature search was performed on the Pubmed using MeSH words such as "lasers/therapeutic use, scaling, dental calculus, tooth root/anatomy and histology, ultrasonic therapy". The studies were screened and were grouped as follows: those evaluating a) efficacy for calculus removal with the Erbium family of laser b) root surface changes following Er YAG and Er Cr YSGG application c) comparative studies of the Er YAG, Er Cr YSGG lasers versus conventional methods of root surface modification d) Bio compatibility of root surface following Erbium laser treatment e) Studies on the combined efficacy of laser root modification with conventional methods towards root surface bio-modification f) Studies on effectiveness of root surface bio-modification prior to root coverage procedures. In conclusion, the erbium family has a proven anti-bacterial action, predictable calculus removal, minimal root substance removal, and appears to favor cell attachment. The Erbium family of lasers appears to be a useful adjunct for the management of periodontal disease.

Two-year randomized clinical trial of enamel matrix derivative treated infrabony defects: radiographic analysis

BACKGROUND

This split-mouth, double-blind randomized controlled trial evaluated radiographic changes in infrabony defects treated with open flap debridement (OFD) or OFD associated with enamel matrix derivative (EMD) after a 24-month follow-up. The radiographic distance from the CEJ to the bottom of the defect (BD) was considered the primary outcome. CEJ-BC and defect angle were secondary outcomes.

METHODS

Ten patients presenting 2 or more defects were selected. An individualized film holder was used to take standardized radiographs of the 43 defects, at baseline and after 24 months. Images were digitized and used to measure the distances from the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ) to the alveolar crest (AC), CEJ to the bottom of the defect (BD) and infrabony defect angle. Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS for Windows (version 5.2). Paired samples t test was used to compare test and control groups and to evaluate changes within each group. The level of significance was set at α = 0.05%.

RESULTS

After 24 months, a significant crestal bone loss was observed for EMD (1.01 mm; p = 0.049) but not for OFD (0.14 mm; p = 0.622). However, no differences were detected between groups (p = 0.37). Reduction of the bone defect depth was significant for OFD (0.70 mm; p = 0.005) but not for EMD (0.04 mm; p = 0.86), while no differences were detected between them (p = 0.87). Both EMD (0.69°; p = 0.82) and OFD (5.71°; p = 0.24) showed an improvement in defect angle measurements but no significant differences were observed after 24 months or between the groups (p = 0.35).

CONCLUSION

Linear radiographic analysis was not able to demonstrate superiority of EMD treated infrabony defects when compared to ODF after 24 months.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02195765. Registered 17 July 2014.

Periodontal regeneration - intrabony defects: a systematic review from the AAP Regeneration Workshop

BACKGROUND

Previous systematic reviews of periodontal regeneration with bone replacement grafts and guided tissue regeneration (GTR) were defined as state of the art for clinical periodontal regeneration as of 2002.

METHODS

The purpose of this systematic review is to update those consensus reports by reviewing periodontal regeneration approaches developed for the correction of intrabony defects with the focus on patient-, tooth-, and site-centered factors, surgical approaches, surgical determinants, and biologics. This review adheres to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines for systematic reviews. A computerized search of the PubMed and Cochrane databases was performed to evaluate the clinically available regenerative approaches for intrabony defects. The search included screening of original reports, review articles, and reference lists of retrieved articles and hand searches of selected journals. All searches were focused on clinically available regenerative approaches with histologic evidence of periodontal regeneration in humans published in English. For topics in which the literature is lacking, non-randomized observational and experimental animal model studies were used. Therapeutic endpoints examined included changes in clinical attachment level, changes in bone level/fill, and probing depth. For purposes of analysis, change in bone fill was used as the primary outcome measure, except in cases in which this information was not available. The SORT (Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy) grading scale was used in evaluating the body of knowledge.

RESULTS

1) Fifty-eight studies provided data on patient, tooth, and surgical-site considerations in the treatment of intrabony defects. 2) Forty-five controlled studies provided outcome analysis on the use of biologics for the treatment of intrabony defects.

CONCLUSIONS

1) Biologics (enamel matrix derivative and recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor-BB plus β-tricalcium phosphate) are generally comparable with demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft and GTR and superior to open flap debridement procedures in improving clinical parameters in the treatment of intrabony defects. 2) Histologic evidence of regeneration has been demonstrated with laser therapy; however, data are limited on clinical predictability and effectiveness. 3) Clinical outcomes appear most appreciably influenced by patient behaviors and surgical approach rather than by tooth and defect characteristics. 4) Long-term studies indicate that improvements in clinical parameters are maintainable up to 10 years, even in severely compromised teeth, consistent with a favorable/good long-term prognosis.

Tissue engineering: A new vista in periodontal regeneration

Tissue engineering is a highly promising field of reconstructive biology that draws on recent advances in medicine, surgery, molecular and cellular biology, polymer chemistry, and physiology. The objective of using tissue engineering as therapeutic application has been to harness its ability to exploit selected and primed cells together with an appropriate mix of regulatory factors, to allow growth and specialization of cells and matrix. The authors reviewed controlled clinical trials which also included histological studies that evaluated the potential of tissue engineering as a clinical tool in regeneration. PubMed/MEDLINE databases were searched for studies up to and including June 2010 to identify appropriate articles. A comprehensive search was designed, and the articles were independently screened for eligibility. Articles with authentic controls and proper randomization and pertaining specifically to their role in periodontal regeneration were included. Studies demonstrated that the periodontal regeneration with the use of combination of tissue engineered products with an osteoconductive matrix improve the beneficial effect of these materials by accelerating cellular in growth and revascularization of the wound site. Studies have suggested the use of rh Platelet-derived growth factor + beta tricalcium phosphate for regeneration of the periodontal attachment apparatus in combination with collagen membranes as an acceptable alternative to connective tissue graft for covering gingival recession defects. The studies concluded that growth factors promote true regeneration of the periodontal attachment apparatus and the use of combination protein therapeutics which is commercially available can provide more predictable, faster, less invasive, less traumatic, and efficient outcome for the patient.

Early and late studies of EMD use in periodontal intrabony defects

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The clinical efficacy of EMDs for the treatment of periodontal infrabony defects has been reported. However, recent publications have questioned the validity of results from early findings. Hence, the purpose of this study was to compare the results obtained from early and late studies when EMD was used as an adjunct in treating human intrabony defects during flap surgery. The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the validity of results published from early studies compared with those published from later studies.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

PubMed and MEDLINE searches were performed. The evaluation period was 1997-2010 and it was divided into two groups of equal periods of time: early studies (1997-2003) and late studies (2004-2010). The clinical parameters assessed were clinical attachment level (CAL), probing pocket depth and bone gain (BG; measured as a percentage or in mm).

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference was found between the results obtained from early studies (1997-2003) and late studies (2004-2010) with regards to CAL gain, probing pocket depth reduction and BG. Nonetheless, both study periods showed a benefit for using EMD to treat periodontal infrabony defects when compared with the groups without EMD during open flap surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained from this study failed to show any potential differences between the results published from early studies and late studies with regards to the clinical effectiveness of EMD in treating periodontal infrabony defects.

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.

Periodontal regeneration with enamel matrix derivative in reconstructive periodontal therapy: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Enamel matrix derivative (EMD) is commonly used in periodontal therapy. The aim of this systematic review is to give an updated answer to the question of whether the additional use of EMD in periodontal therapy is more effective compared with a control or other regenerative procedures.

METHODS

A literature search in MEDLINE (PubMed) for the use of EMD in periodontal treatment was performed up to May 2010. The use of EMD in treatment of intrabony defects, furcations, and recessions was evaluated. Only randomized controlled trials with ≥1 year of follow-up were included. The primary outcome variable for intrabony defects was the change in clinical attachment level (CAL), for furcations the change in horizontal furcation depth, and for recession complete root coverage.

RESULTS

After screening, 27 studies (20 for intrabony defects, one for furcation, and six for recession) were eligible for the review. A meta-analysis was performed for intrabony defects and recession. The treatment of intrabony defects with EMD showed a significant additional gain in CAL of 1.30 mm compared with open-flap debridement, EDTA, or placebo, but no significant difference compared with resorbable membranes was shown. The use of EMD in combination with a coronally advanced flap compared with a coronally advanced flap alone showed significantly more complete root coverage (odds ratio of 3.5), but compared with a connective tissue graft, the result was not significantly different. The use of EMD in furcations (2.6 ± 1.8 mm) gave significantly more improvement in horizontal defect depth compared with resorbable membranes (1.9 ± 1.4 mm) as shown in one study.

CONCLUSIONS

In the treatment of intrabony defects, the use of EMD is superior to control treatments but as effective as resorbable membranes. The additional use of EMD with a coronally advanced flap for recession coverage will give superior results compared with a control but is as effective as a connective tissue graft. The use of EMD in furcations will give more reduction in horizontal furcation defect depth compared with resorbable membranes.

Enamel matrix derivative (Emdogain(R)) for periodontal tissue regeneration in intrabony defects

BACKGROUND

Periodontitis is a chronic infective disease of the gums caused by bacteria present in dental plaque. This condition induces the breakdown of the tooth supporting apparatus until teeth are lost. Surgery may be indicated to arrest disease progression and regenerate lost tissues. Several surgical techniques have been developed to regenerate periodontal tissues including guided tissue regeneration (GTR), bone grafting (BG) and the use of enamel matrix derivative (EMD). EMD is an extract of enamel matrix and contains amelogenins of various molecular weights. Amelogenins are involved in the formation of enamel and periodontal attachment formation during tooth development.

OBJECTIVES

To test whether EMD is effective, and to compare EMD versus GTR, and various BG procedures for the treatment of intrabony defects.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Oral Health Group Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE. Several journals were handsearched. No language restrictions were applied. Authors of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) identified, personal contacts and the manufacturer were contacted to identify unpublished trials. Most recent search: February 2009.

SELECTION CRITERIA

RCTs on patients affected by periodontitis having intrabony defects of at least 3 mm treated with EMD compared with open flap debridement, GTR and various BG procedures with at least 1 year follow up. The outcome measures considered were: tooth loss, changes in probing attachment levels (PAL), pocket depths (PPD), gingival recessions (REC), bone levels from the bottom of the defects on intraoral radiographs, aesthetics and adverse events. The following time-points were to be evaluated: 1, 5 and 10 years.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Screening of eligible studies, assessment of the methodological quality of the trials and data extraction were conducted in duplicate and independently by two authors. Results were expressed as random-effects models using mean differences for continuous outcomes and risk ratios (RR) for dichotomous outcomes with 95% confidence intervals (CI). It was decided not to investigate heterogeneity, but a sensitivity analysis for the risk of bias of the trials was performed.

MAIN RESULTS

Thirteen trials were included out of 35 potentially eligible trials. No included trial presented data after 5 years of follow up, therefore all data refer to the 1-year time point. A meta-analysis including nine trials showed that EMD treated sites displayed statistically significant PAL improvements (mean difference 1.1 mm, 95% CI 0.61 to 1.55) and PPD reduction (0.9 mm, 95% CI 0.44 to 1.31) when compared to placebo or control treated sites, though a high degree of heterogeneity was found. Significantly more sites had < 2 mm PAL gain in the control group, with RR 0.53 (95% CI 0.34 to 0.82). Approximately nine patients needed to be treated (NNT) to have one patient gaining 2 mm or more PAL over the control group, based on a prevalence in the control group of 25%. No differences in tooth loss or aesthetic appearance as judged by the patients were observed. When evaluating only trials at a low risk of bias in a sensitivity analysis (four trials), the effect size for PAL was 0.62 mm (95% CI 0.28 to 0.96), which was less than 1.1 mm for the overall result. Comparing EMD with GTR (five trials), GTR showed statistically significant more postoperative complications (three trials, RR 0.12, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.85) and more REC (0.4 mm 95% CI 0.15 to 0.66). The only trial comparing EMD with a bioactive ceramic filler found statistically significant more REC (-1.60 mm, 95% CI -2.74 to -0.46) at the EMG treated sites.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

One year after its application, EMD significantly improved PAL levels (1.1 mm) and PPD reduction (0.9 mm) when compared to a placebo or control, however, the high degree of heterogeneity observed among trials suggests that results have to be interpreted with great caution. In addition, a sensitivity analysis indicated that the overall treatment effect might be overestimated. The actual clinical advantages of using EMD are unknown. With the exception of significantly more postoperative complications in the GTR group, there was no evidence of clinically important differences between GTR and EMD. Bone substitutes may be associated with less REC than EMD.

Stimulation of cytokines in osteoblasts cultured on enamel matrix derivative

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) on the release of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2), and osteoprotegerin (OPG) in human and mouse osteoblasts.

STUDY DESIGN

Human MG-63 and mouse MC3T3-E1 cells were seeded onto 6-well culture plates at an initial density of 5,000/cm(2) and grown in Dulbecco's eagle medium (DMEM) with 10% fetal bovine serum for 24 h. Then cells were cultured either with 100 microg/mL EMD added to DMEM or with DMEM only. After 2, 5, and 9 days' incubation the culture medium was collected and analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent analysis. Data were analyzed using Student t test.

RESULTS

The EMD treatment significantly increased the production of IL-6 and TGF-beta1 (P < .05) at all time points. The release of OPG was also increased in mouse osteoblasts (P < .05). IGF-I and BMP-2 were not detected in both control and EMD-treated groups.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that the stimulatory effects of EMD on tissue regeneration are mediated by the up-regulation of local mediators released by osteoblasts.

Four-year results of a prospective-controlled clinical study evaluating healing of intra-bony defects following treatment with an enamel matrix protein derivative alone or combined with a bioactive glass

AIM

To evaluate the 4-year results following regenerative periodontal surgery at intra-bony defects with either a combination of an enamel matrix protein derivative (EMD) and a bioactive glass (BG) or with EMD alone.

METHODS

Twenty-five patients with one deep intra-bony defect each were randomly treated with either an EMD+BG (test) or with EMD alone (control). Measurements were recorded at baseline, at 1 and at 4 years following therapy. The primary outcome variable was the clinical attachment level (CAL).

RESULTS

The test group demonstrated a mean CAL change from 10.3+/-1.6 to 6.7+/-1.2 mm (p<0.001) and to 6.9+/-1.0 mm (p<0.001) at 1 and 4 years, respectively. No statistically significant differences were found between the 1- and 4-year results. The control group showed a mean CAL change from 10.4+/-1.6 to 6.7+/-1.1 mm (p<0.001) at 1 year and 7.0+/-0.9 mm (p<0.001) at 4 years. The CAL change between 1 and 4 years did not present statistically significant differences. In each of the two groups, four defects have lost 1 mm of the CAL gained at 1 year. A CAL gain of 1 mm compared with the 1-year results was measured in only one defect of the test group. Compared with baseline, a CAL gain of >/=3 mm was found at 4 years in 10 defects in both groups. Between the treatment groups, no statistically significant differences in any of the investigated parameters were observed at 1 and at 4 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Within their limits, the present results indicate that the clinical improvements obtained with both regenerative modalities can be maintained over a period of 4 years.

The application of an enamel matrix protein derivative (Emdogain) in regenerative periodontal therapy: a review

Regenerative periodontal therapy aims at reconstitution of the lost periodontal structures such as new formation of root cementum, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. Findings from basic research indicate that enamel matrix protein derivative (EMD) has a key role in periodontal wound healing. Histological results from animal and human studies have shown that treatment with EMD promotes periodontal regeneration. Moreover, clinical studies have indicated that treatment with EMD positively influences periodontal wound healing in humans. This review aims to present an overview of evidence-based clinical indications for regenerative therapy with EMD.

Primary flap closure combined with Emdogain�alone or Emdogain�and Cerasorb�in the treatment of intra-bony defects

OBJECTIVES

To compare clinical outcomes of three different modalities of treatment for deep intra-bony defects.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Fifty-six patients were paralleled for clinical parameters and randomly assigned to treatment. They displayed one angular defect each with an intra-bony component > or =3 mm, probing pocket depth (PPD) and probing attachment level (PAL) > or =7 mm, and plaque index (PI) <1. Nineteen defects were treated, respectively, with enamel matrix derivative (EMD)+tricalcium phosphate (TCP) or EMD alone and 18 defects with modified Widman flap (MWF). Primary flap closure was used in all three groups. PI, gingival index, bleeding on probing, PPD, PAL, and recession (REC) were measured before and 12 months after treatment.

RESULTS

Treatment with EMD alone yielded a 3.9+/-1.3 mm PPD decrease and a 3.7+/-1.0 mm PAL gain (p<0.001), whereas EMD+beta-TCP produced a 4.1+/-1.2 mm PPD reduction and a 4.0+/-1.0 mm PAL gain (p<0.001). These outcome parameters did not differ between the two groups. REC increased by 0.7+/-1.3 mm. After MWF treatment, attachment gain was 2.1+/-1.4 mm (p<0.001) and PPD reduction was 3.8+/-1.8 mm, whereas REC increased by 1.5+/-0.7 mm (p=0.042 versus EMD).

CONCLUSION

Both EMD treatments showed similar clinical effects, with significant PAL gain and a significantly lower REC increase in comparison with MWF treatment.

Emdogain-gel stimulates proliferation of odontoblasts and osteoblasts

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine whether a premixed form of enamel matrix derivative (EMD), Emdogain-gel, has the same property as the original formula of EMD in stimulating the proliferation of osteoblasts and odontoblasts.

STUDY DESIGN

Osteoblast cell line (MC3T3) and odontoblast cell line (MDPC) were cultured in the 6-well culture plates and treated in 4 different groups: (1) culture medium control, (2) 100 microg/mL Emdogain-gel directly added to the culture medium, (3) culture medium with a culture plate insert, and (4) 100 microg/mL Emdogain-gel added onto a culture plate insert. The culture plate insert prevented direct contact between Emdogain-gel and the cells. After 3-day incubation, cell morphology was examined and the total cell number per well was counted. Data were analyzed using 1-way ANOVA.

RESULTS

Emdogain-gel significantly increased cell number of both osteoblasts and odontoblasts regardless the presence of the culture plate insert.

CONCLUSION

Emdogain-gel stimulates cell proliferation of odontoblasts and osteoblasts. The direct contact between Emdogain-gel and cells is not required. Heat treatment of EMD and premix with propylene glycol alginate did not change its property of releasing bioactive molecules for promoting cell proliferation.

The Induction and Possible Subsequent Effect of Human Antibodies Against Porcine Enamel Matrix Derivative

BACKGROUND

The amino acid sequence of porcine amelogenin, the major component of enamel matrix derivative (EMD), is approximately 91% identical to that of its human counterpart. Whether porcine EMD (pEMD) can elicit neutralizing antibodies after the first surgery, thereby reducing the clinical effect of secondary surgery, has not been established.

METHODS

The sera of patients receiving periodontal surgery with or without pEMD were collected before and after surgery. The pEMD product was subjected to electrophoresis and transferred for a Western blot using the purified antibodies from patients as the primary antibodies. To clarify whether the antibodies in patients could inhibit the production of transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1), we added different amounts of purified antibodies from pEMD patients (before versus after surgery) into the cell cultures of periodontal ligament fibroblasts. The conditioned media were then collected for an immunoassay of TGF-beta1.

RESULTS

The result of the Western blot demonstrated that human antibodies against pEMD were elicited 10 days after surgery. Using mass spectrometry, a non-specific band on the Western blot appeared to be porcine immunoglobulin G (IgG). The results of the immunoassay showed the antibodies from pEMD-treated patients did not hinder the subsequent production of TGF-beta1.

CONCLUSIONS

The pEMD product was contaminated with porcine IgG. The application of the product could induce antibodies against different isoforms of porcine amelogenin in humans. However, the increased antibodies did not hinder the production of TGF-beta1, one of the established in vitro functions of pEMD on periodontal ligament fibroblasts.

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.

Guided tissue regeneration/deproteinized bovine bone mineral or papilla preservation flaps alone for treatment of intrabony defects. II: radiographic predictors and outcomes

OBJECTIVES

This study reports the secondary analysis of a randomized-controlled clinical trial designed to assess the efficacy of deproteinized bovine mineral and a collagen membrane in the treatment of intrabony defects. The specific aims of this report are (1) to analyse the radiographic bone changes 1 year after therapy and (2) to assess the association between radiographic defect angle and treatment outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Baseline and 12-month radiographs were collected from 120 patients with advanced chronic periodontitis from 10 centres in seven countries as part of a multi-centre clinical trial. All patients had at least one intrabony defect > or =3 mm in depth. The treatment consisted of simplified or modified papilla preservation flaps to access the defect. After debridement of the area, a deproteinized bovine mineral and a collagen membrane were applied in the test subjects, and omitted in the controls. Main outcome measures were radiographic bone fill and defect resolution 1 year after surgery.

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty pairs of radiographs were obtained, of which 110 pairs were measurable (57 tests and 53 controls). One year after treatment, radiographic resolution of the intrabony component was significantly higher in the test group (3.2+/-1.7 mm) when compared with the controls (1.7+/-1.9 mm). Multivariate analysis indicated that the treatment and the baseline radiographic depth of the intrabony defect significantly influenced the radiographic bone fill of the intrabony defect 1 year following treatment. The percentage of resolution of the defect was influenced by the treatment provided and the baseline plaque score. The baseline radiographic defect angle did not show a significant impact on the clinical and radiographic outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Regenerative periodontal surgery with a deproteinized bovine bone mineral and a collagen membrane offered additional benefits in terms of radiographic resolution of the intrabony defect and predictability of outcomes with respect to papilla preservation flaps alone.

Five-Year Follow-Up of Regenerative Periodontal Therapy With Enamel Matrix Derivative at Sites With Angular Bone Defects

BACKGROUND

This prospective case series report aimed at analyzing the long-term (5 years) stability of clinical attachment level (CAL) gains following regenerative therapy with the use of enamel matrix proteins in intrabony defects.

METHODS

A total of 114 consecutively treated periodontal patients (mean age: 55.8 years) were initially included. Each subject exhibited at least one deep proximal intrabony defect with the inclusion criteria of 1) probing depth (PD)>or=5 mm, 2) clinical attachment loss>or=6 mm, and 3) radiographic evidence of a >or=3-mm intrabony component. A total of 146 defects met the criteria for inclusion. At least 6 months after the completion of an initial phase of mechanical infection control, a baseline examination was performed to characterize the experimental site. Reconstructive therapy with the use of enamel matrix proteins was subsequently performed. Experimental sites were reexamined 1 and 5 years after reconstructive surgery. Primary efficacy variables were considered to be changes in PD, CAL, soft tissue recession (REC), and radiographic defect depth (RDD). Stepwise regression analysis was employed for evaluation of predicting factors of CAL change between the 1- and 5-year reexaminations.

RESULTS

A total of 82 patients (102 defects) were included in the analysis. One year following the regenerative surgery, a mean CAL gain of 4.3 mm (P<0.001), a mean PD reduction of 4.9 mm (P<0.001), and a mean increase in REC of 0.6 mm (P<0.001) were recorded. At the 5-year follow-up, a further mean PD reduction of 0.3 mm (P>0.05), CAL gain of 1.1 mm (P<0.01), and reduction in recession of 0.8 mm (P<0.01) had taken place. Radiographs revealed that the bone defect had been reduced in depth with an average of 2.9 mm at 1 year (P<0.001). No statistically significant alteration in defect depth was observed between 1 and 5 years of follow-up. The stepwise regression analysis identified the degree of REC and residual PD at 1 year as significant predictors of CAL change between 1 and 5 years.

CONCLUSION

Results demonstrated long-term (5 years) stability of CAL gains following regenerative therapy with the use of enamel matrix proteins in intrabony defects.

Microbial colonization patterns predict the outcomes of surgical treatment of intrabony defects

AIM

To explore the impact of bacterial load and microbial colonization patterns on the clinical outcomes of periodontal surgery at deep intrabony defects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and twenty-two patients with advanced chronic periodontitis and at least one intrabony defect of >3 mm were recruited in 10 centres. Before recruitment, the infection control phase of periodontal therapy was completed. After surgical access and debridement, the regenerative material was applied in the test subjects, and omitted in the controls. At baseline and 1 year following the interventions, clinical attachment levels (CAL), pocket probing depths (PPD), recession (REC), full-mouth plaque scores and full-mouth bleeding scores were assessed. Microbial colonization of the defect-associated pocket was assessed using a DNA-DNA checkerboard analysis.

RESULTS

Total bacterial load and counts of red complex bacteria were negatively associated with CAL gains 1 year following treatment. The probability of achieving above median CAL gains (>3 mm) was significantly decreased by higher total bacterial counts, higher red complex and T. forsythensis counts immediately before surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Presence of high bacterial load and specific periodontal pathogen complexes in deep periodontal pockets associated with intrabony defects had a significant negative impact on the 1 year outcome of surgical/regenerative treatment.

Enamel matrix derivative (Emdogain) for periodontal tissue regeneration in intrabony defects

BACKGROUND

Periodontitis is a chronic infective disease of the gums caused by bacteria present in dental plaque. This condition induces the breakdown of the tooth supporting apparatus until teeth are lost. Surgery may be indicated to arrest disease progression and regenerate lost tissues. Several surgical techniques have been developed to regenerate periodontal tissues including guided tissue regeneration (GTR), bone grafting (BG) and the use of enamel matrix derivative (EMD). EMD is an extract of enamel matrix and contains amelogenins of various molecular weights. Amelogenins are involved in the formation of enamel and periodontal attachment formation during tooth development.

OBJECTIVES

To test whether EMD is effective, and to compare EMD versus GTR, and various BG procedures for the treatment of intrabony defects.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane OHG Trials Register, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE and EMBASE. Several journals were handsearched. No language restrictions were applied. Authors of RCTs identified, personal contacts and the manufacturer were contacted to identify unpublished trials. Most recent search: May 2005.

SELECTION CRITERIA

RCTs on patients affected by periodontitis having intrabony defects of at least 3 mm treated with EMD compared with open flap debridement, GTR and various BG procedures with at least 1 year follow up. The outcome measures considered were: tooth loss, changes in probing attachment levels (PAL), pocket depths (PPD), gingival recessions (REC), bone levels from the bottom of the defects on intraoral radiographs, aesthetics and adverse events. The following time-points were to be evaluated: 1, 5 and 10 years.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Screening of eligible studies, assessment of the methodological quality of the trials and data extraction were conducted in duplicate and independently by two authors. Results were expressed as random-effects models using mean differences for continuous outcomes and risk ratios (RR) for dichotomous outcomes with 95% confidence intervals (CI). It was decided not to investigate heterogeneity, but a sensitivity analysis for the risk of bias of the trials was performed.

MAIN RESULTS

Ten trials were included out of 29 potentially eligible trials. No included trial presented data after 5 years of follow up, therefore all data refer to the 1-year time point. A meta-analysis including eight trials showed that EMD treated sites displayed statistically significant PAL improvements (mean difference 1.2 mm, 95% CI 0.7 to 1.7) and PPD reduction (0.8 mm, 95% CI 0.5 to 1.0) when compared to placebo or control treated sites, though a high degree of heterogeneity was found. Significantly more sites had < 2 mm PAL gain in the control group, with RR 0.48 (95% CI 0.29 to 0.80). Approximately six patients needed to be treated (NNT) to have one patient gaining 2 mm or more PAL over the control group, based on a prevalence in the control group of 35%. No differences in tooth loss or aesthetic appearance as judged by the patients were observed. When evaluating the only two trials at a low risk of bias in a sensitivity analysis, the effect size for PAL was 0.6 mm, which was less than 1.2 mm for the overall result. Comparing EMD with GTR (five trials), GTR showed a statistically significant increase of REC (0.4 mm) and significantly more postoperative complications. No trials were found comparing EMD with BG.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

One year after its application, EMD significantly improved PAL levels (1.2 mm) and PPD reduction (0.8 mm) when compared to a placebo or control, however, the high degree of heterogeneity observed among trials suggests that results have to be interpreted with great caution. In addition a sensitivity analyses indicated that the overall treatment effect might be overestimated. The actual clinical advantages of using EMD are unknown. With the exception of significantly more postoperative complications in the GTR group, there was no evidence of clinically important differences between GTR and EMD.

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.

The Influence of Surgical Treatment of Periodontal Disease on Selected Lymphocyte Subpopulations Important for Cellular and Humoral Immune Responses

BACKGROUND

Periodontal disease is a complex pathological process involving a wide spectrum of immunological reactions. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of surgical periodontal treatments on peripheral blood lymphocyte subpopulations.

METHODS

The study was performed in 40 generally healthy individuals diagnosed with generalized chronic periodontitis and a control group of 36 persons without periodontitis. Peripheral blood lymphocyte subpopulations were examined in both groups. Periodontal treatment was performed, using four different surgical procedures, in the study group. Peripheral blood lymphocyte subpopulations were re-evaluated again after 6 months.

RESULTS

Periodontal treatment resulted in a significant improvement of all measured clinical parameters, regardless of the surgical procedure. When evaluated in the study group as a whole, percentages of all but CD8+ T lymphocyte subpopulations were significantly different from the control group at baseline. Values in both groups after treatment were similar. Correlation analysis suggests a connection between the presence of CD25+ cells and selected clinical parameters of periodontal disease (probing depth and clinical attachment loss).

CONCLUSIONS

Statistically significant differences in the percentages of selected lymphocyte subpopulations in the peripheral blood of patients and healthy controls were found. The results suggest a correlation between selected clinical periodontal parameters and percentage of activated cells expressing the interleukin (IL)-2 receptor. Periodontal treatment resulted in significant improvement in the measured clinical and immunological parameters. It seems that the type of surgical treatment has little effect on the normalization of quantitative disturbances of the examined peripheral blood lymphocytes.