Membranes for Periodontal and Bone Regeneration: Everything You Need to Know

Implant dentistry and periodontology have shown an increasing demand for regenerative procedures associated with biomaterials targeting successful clinical outcomes and predictable long-term results. Membranes applied in oral regeneration have proved to be essential in regenerative procedures, increasing the quality, volume, and stability of the regenerated tissues. This review depicts and explores the past, present, and future of membranes used in periodontal and bone regeneration. Historical concepts and early studies using pioneering membranes are reviewed; physio-chemical and biological membrane properties (e.g., wettability, roughness, biocompatibility, porosity, and mechanical characteristics) are discussed, as well as, the future directions of innovative membranes in the developing stage; and as a central focus, a summary of the clinical techniques and scientific evidence in which membrane application is significantly relevant is exposed. Today, a wide option of membranes is available on the market for clinicians to select and use in regenerative procedures according to the surgical level and desired tissue to be regenerated. For instance, non-resorbable membranes (d-PTFE, e-PTFE, and Ti-reinforced PTFE); resorbable membranes (synthetic and collagen-based); and autologous membranes. Clinical and preclinical results in regenerative procedures using membranes such as horizontal and vertical bone augmentation, sinus lift, immediate implant placement, have shown strong positive evidence compared to spontaneous healing, meanwhile, the current use of membranes in periodontal regeneration, periimplantitis treatment, and alveolar ridge preservation has revealed reduced scientific data, suggesting the need for further investigation. Concluding, the use of membranes is predictable and relevant in oral regeneration. Nevertheless, still there is space for evolution and clinical progress in the use of membranes in oral regeneration aiming to surpass current limitations, eliminate possible contaminations, and promote faster regeneration.