An epithelial exclusion technique using the CO2 laser for the treatment of periodontal defects

When treating osseous defects associated with periodontitis, the healed result is a compromised regeneration of the attachment apparatus from epithelial downgrowth. This article demonstrates a laser ablation technique for excluding the epithelium from contacting the root surface of the periodontal wound. In accordance with the principles of guided tissue regeneration, the epithelium should be excluded for at least 30 days after surgical therapy. A series of case reports demonstrate the technique and the 6-month results that can be obtained using this approach. The regenerated tissue is confirmed through reentry procedures and radiographs.