Periodontal regenerative therapy with connective tissue grafting for buccal Class II furcation defects: An exploratory retrospective study.

objectivesTo evaluate the long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of periodontal regenerative therapy performed with adjunctive connective tissue grafting (CTG) for Class II furcation defects. MATERIALS AND

methodsFourteen isolated buccal Class II furcation defects in fourteen patients were treated with regenerative therapy using recombinant human fibroblast growth factor-2, carbonate apatite, and adjunctive connective tissue grafting. Clinical and radiographic parameters were assessed at baseline, 12, 36, and 60 months, and the gingival phenotypes were evaluated at baseline and at 60 months using a color-based phenotype probe. Data were analyzed using nonparametric statistical tests.

resultsSignificant improvements in probing pocket depth and clinical attachment level were observed at 12 months and maintained through 60 months. Keratinized tissue width increased significantly over time, and radiographic evaluation demonstrated stable defect fill in most sites. Gingival recession tended to decrease. At 60 months, radiographic evidence of complete defect fill was observed in 13 of 14 sites (92.9%).

conclusionsWithin the limitations of this retrospective exploratory study, favorable long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes with stable furcation conditions were observed following regenerative therapy performed with adjunctive CTG for Class II furcation defects. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Regenerative therapy performed with adjunctive CTG may represent a clinically applicable approach for selected Class II furcation defects.