[Use of synthograft after tooth apicoectomy with extensive bone defect and marginal apical communication to...

Synthograft (beta-tricalcium phosphate) is a bioresorptive ceramic material which stimulates osteogenesis after implantation into bone defects and disappears from the site of implantation. In this study, Synthograft was used as a filling in bone defects following apicotomy of teeth with extensive periapical and lateral bone defects along the tooth root involving more than 1/3 of the root, and when an extended periodontal fissure was present in addition. The study included 13 patients with one or more teeth involved. The tricalcium phosphate powder was mixed with patient's own blood and inserted into bone cavities. The patients were followed up during 12 months after surgery by clinical and radiographic control examinations. In all the 13 cases, clinical results were very good, i.e. healing of the wound proceeded without any signs of inflammation, whereas later in the course of follow-up no signs of reaction to the foreign material were observed. Preoperatively loose teeth had gradually become firm and after 12 months were within the limits of physiological motility. Roentgenograms revealed the bone cavities to have filled with newly formed bone, and the periodontal ligament, otherwise lost, was also restored. Results of this study showed the Synthograft implant to be well tolerated by recipients, thus it can be recommended as a filling in extensive bone periapical and lateral defects after tooth apicotomy.