A groundbreaking study presented at EuroPerio11 challenges the conventional wisdom that severely damaged teeth must be extracted and replaced with implants or bridges. The research, conducted over two decades, demonstrates that periodontal regeneration (PR) can be just as effective as tooth replacement, offering cost advantages and improved patient experiences. By focusing on advanced regenerative procedures for teeth with severe bone loss, the study highlights the potential of saving natural teeth rather than resorting to extraction.

The findings emphasize that regeneration is not only feasible but also more economical in the long term. Both treatment approaches—saving the tooth through regeneration or replacing it with an implant—yielded comparable success rates after 20 years. However, maintaining natural teeth proved less expensive due to reduced maintenance needs. Furthermore, patient selection and adherence to oral hygiene play crucial roles in ensuring successful outcomes.

Saving Natural Teeth Through Periodontal Regeneration

This section explores how periodontal regeneration has emerged as a transformative approach for preserving severely compromised teeth. Unlike traditional methods that advocate extraction, PR focuses on rebuilding lost bone and tissue using surgical techniques. Over two decades, this method demonstrated remarkable stability in gum health while reducing costs significantly compared to implants or bridges. Patients who underwent PR maintained healthy attachment levels, proving that keeping natural teeth is both clinically sound and economically advantageous.

Periodontal regeneration involves sophisticated surgical interventions designed to restore deteriorated tissues supporting the tooth. In cases of advanced periodontitis, where bone loss extends deep into the root structure, these procedures offer hope for retention. The study tracked 50 participants divided into two groups—one receiving PR treatments and another opting for extraction followed by implant placement or fixed bridges. After 20 years, only four teeth were lost among those treated with PR, showcasing its effectiveness. Additionally, ongoing care costs for regenerated teeth remained lower throughout the study period. This outcome underscores the importance of considering PR as a primary option before deciding on extraction.

Selecting Ideal Candidates for Successful Regeneration

While periodontal regeneration holds immense promise, its success hinges heavily on proper patient selection and commitment to follow-up care. Not all individuals are suitable candidates; factors such as overall health, smoking habits, and dedication to maintaining excellent oral hygiene significantly impact long-term results. Researchers stress that even the most skilled practitioners cannot guarantee success without active participation from patients in maintaining optimal conditions post-treatment.

Dr. Simone Cortellini emphasizes that patient compliance plays a pivotal role in achieving favorable outcomes with periodontal regeneration. Ideal candidates include non-smokers with good general health and strong motivation to adhere to rigorous oral hygiene routines. Regular follow-ups ensure any issues are promptly addressed, enhancing the longevity of regenerated teeth. Moreover, continued advancements in biomaterials could expand the applicability of PR techniques, making them accessible to a broader range of patients. While regeneration may not suit every case, it represents a compelling alternative worth exploring before committing to tooth extraction. As Dr. Lior Shapira points out, when executed correctly with appropriate candidates, PR matches—if not surpasses—the efficacy of traditional tooth replacement options, providing significant financial savings alongside clinical benefits.