Retrograde Study Using Radiographic Comparison of Bone Fill Observed after Guided Tissue Regeneration by the Type of Periodontal Bone Defect

Background and Objectives: The current study aimed to compare the extent of bone growth achieved after guided tissue regeneration (GTR) based on the location and nature of the initial periodontal lesion. Materials and Methods: The study sample included 80 patients who underwent GTR at Kyungpook National University Dental Hospital since 2012 and were radiologically followed up for at least 2 years after treatment. The patients were divided into four groups based on the location (maxilla and mandible) and nature (furcation involvement and intrabony defects) of the lesion. Differences in bone levels before and after treatment were analyzed. Additionally, a comparison of outcomes based on the type of bone graft material used was conducted. Statistical analysis included a comparison of groups using a t-test, assuming equal variance. Results: The proportion of bone growth observed in the maxillary furcation, mandibular furcation, maxillary intrabony, and mandibular intrabony lesions was 26%, 22%, 31%, and 34%, respectively. No statistically significant differences in the amount of bone fill were observed between the groups. However, a significant positive correlation was found between the initial depth of the bone defect and the amount of bone fill observed after treatment. Conclusions: Contrary to previous evidence, the current study observed no significant differences in the amount of bone fill after GTR based on the location and nature of the lesion. Furthermore, the amount of bone regenerated was directly proportional to the initial depth of the alveolar bone defect.