Periodontal Intrabony Defects and the Treatment with Enamel Matrix Derivative and a Synthetic Bone Substitute in Humans: A Clinical and Radiographic Case Series

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze by clinical and radiographic parameters the use of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) with or without a synthetic bone substitute (Bone Ceramic) in the treatment of periodontal intrabony defects in humans. Methods: Nine patients and eighteen defects in need of treatment for periodontal intrabony defects were selected and assigned to the treatment with EMD or EMD plus Bone Ceramic assessing clinical and radiographic measurements. Results: At one year, mean probing depth (PD) reduction demonstrated improvements in all groups when compared to the baseline (P<0.01). At 1 year PD reduction ≥ 2mm was measured in 57% of the defects (i.e., in 4 of the 7) when EMD + BC was used; in 36% of the defects (i.e., 4 of the 11) when EMD was used. There were no statistically significant differences when standardized radiographic subtractions were compared radiographic. Conclusion: In conclusion, results from the present cases series confirm that a regenerative procedure based on EMD plus Bone Ceramic had better results in defect fill, although there was a variation in the numbers of defects.