PERIODONTAL REGENERATION WITH ENAMEL MATRIX DERIVATIVE IN ONE HUMAN EXPERIMENTAL DEFECT - A CASE-REPORT

The purpose of the present study was to histologically assess the effe ct of enamel matrix derivative on periodontal regeneration in one huma n experimental defect. Experimental surgery was performed in a healthy male volunteer to create a buccal dehiscence defect in a mandibular i ncisor. Following bone removal and conditioning of the exposed root su rface, enamel matrix derivative was applied onto the root surface. The flaps were then replaced and sutured. Clinical healing was uneventful . After 4 months, the experimental tooth together with the surrounding soft and hard tissues were removed surgically for histological evalua tion. The microscopic examination revealed formation of a new acellula r extrinsic fibre cementum, which was firmly attached to the underlyin g dentin. A new periodontal ligament with inserting and functionally-o riented collagen fibres and an associated alveolar-bone was also prese nt. The new cementum covered 73% of the original defect. Regain of bon e was 65% of the presurgical bone height. It was concluded that adjunc tive use of enamel matrix derivative could provide a regenerative tech nology with a potential for true periodontal regeneration.