Histologic and Clinical Evaluation of an Allogeneic Bone Matrix for the Treatment of Periodontal Osseous Defects

The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of an allogeneic bone matrix (Grafton, Osteotech) to regenerate now bone, new cementum, and a new periodontal ligament around teeth previously contaminated by bacterial plaque. Four patients with chronic advanced periodontitis and who were scheduled for full-mouth extraction were enrolled in the study. One patient dropped out from the study before any therapy began. One tooth with an intraosseous defect in each patient was selected for treatment. Measurements of probing depth, gingival recession, and clinical attachment level were made. After flap reflection, a root notch was placed at the apical level of calculus, the root was debrided, and allogenic bone matrix was inserted into the defect. After 6 months of healing, the teeth were removed en bloc and evaluated histologically for a new attachment apparatus. Two of the three teeth demonstrated regeneration of new bone, cementum, and periodontal ligament.