Periodontal Regeneration - Intrabony Defects: Practical Applications From the AAP Regeneration Workshop

Focused Clinical Question: What are important considerations for selecting a predictable regenerative surgical approach for intrabony defects? Summary: The predictable regeneration of intrabony defects remains an important goal in the management of periodontitis. Clinical and histologic evidence of periodontal regeneration has been shown for multiple regenerative therapies, including bone replacement grafts, guided tissue regeneration, and biologics, when used alone or in combination. Regenerative therapies improve periodontal health, as evidenced by gains in clinical attachment level, reductions in probing depth, and gains in radiographic bone fill. Important patient-related factors (e.g., smoking) and defect/site-related factors (e.g., defect morphology and gingival biotype) can influence the potential to achieve periodontal regeneration. The regeneration of intrabony defects generally becomes more challenging with increasing loss of height, proximity, and number of bony walls. Therefore, combination therapies may be necessary to achieve predictable regeneration. Clinical improvements after regenerative therapy can be maintained over extended periods (≥10 years) with professional maintenance at appropriate intervals and adequate home care. Conclusions: Periodontal regeneration of intrabony defects is possible using a variety of regenerative strategies. Management should be coupled with an effective oral hygiene and supportive periodontal maintenance program for long-term success.