Clinical Applications of an Enamel Matrix Protein Derivative in Regenerative Periodontal Therapy

The goal of regenerative periodontal therapy is the reconstitution of the lost periodontal structures (i.e. the new formation of root cementum, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone). Findings from basic research have pointed to the important role of an enamel matrix protein derivative (EMD) in periodontal wound healing. Histological results from acute and chronic animal models and from human case reports have provided evidence that treatment with EMD may indeed promote periodontal regeneration and positively influences wound healing in intrabony, class II furcation and recession type defects. Recent long-term randomized controlled clinical studies have demonstrated that the improvements obtained following surgery with EMD can be maintained on a long term basis. The aim of the present chapter is to provide an overwiev on the clinical applications for EMD in regenerative periodontal therapy.