[Clinical and histological evaluation of a new filling material: natural coral]

A clinical and histological study was performed to evaluate the effects of natural coral micro-granules in the treatment of infrabony defects. 12 defects in 11 patients were selected for treatment. The therapy was assessed using standardized radiographs, pocket probings and gingival margin levels 12 months after treatment. The mean initial pocket depth was 9.6 +/- 1.5 mm and at the bony defect 6.08 +/- 2.53 mm. Results showed a gain in attachment of 3 +/- 1.5 mm and a mean reduction in pocket depth of 3.9 +/- 2 mm. Two biopsies taken at 8 and 18 months post-operatively show different stages of bone formation around the coral particles.