Dental knowledge: regenerative measures in periodontology

Rebuilding the tooth-supporting structures is the goal of periodontal therapy.

Where the tooth-supporting structures have broken down as a result of periodontitis, they can, depending on the extent of the loss, be partly rebuilt by regenerative measures. Rebuilding the supporting structures – root cementum, fibre bundles and bone – can be encouraged with enamel matrix proteins. These enable the body to restore the natural supporting apparatus by imitating the processes that take place while a tooth is developing.

The natural structure that anchors the teeth consists of three basic elements:

1. the root cementum,

2. tiny bundles of fibres connecting root cementum and jawbone,

3. the jawbone.

With the help of enamel matrix proteins, tissue can be built up and a new supporting apparatus formed to replace what periodontitis had destroyed.

A single application of enamel matrix proteins is normally sufficient. The regenerative process they set off continues over a longer period – usually more than a year.

Answered briefly

Frequently asked questions

What are enamel matrix proteins?

Enamel matrix proteins are proteins that can encourage the rebuilding of the tooth-supporting apparatus. They imitate the processes that take place while a tooth is developing and thereby enable the body to form the natural supporting apparatus of root cementum, fibre bundles and bone anew.

What does the anchorage of a tooth in the jaw consist of?

The natural anchorage consists of three basic elements: the root cementum, tiny bundles of fibres connecting root cementum and jawbone, and the jawbone itself. Where these supporting structures have broken down through periodontitis, they can be partly rebuilt depending on the extent of the loss.

Does treatment with enamel matrix proteins have to be repeated?

A single application is normally sufficient. The regenerative process it sets off then continues over a longer period, usually more than a year. How much tissue can be recovered depends on how far the tooth-supporting apparatus has broken down.