Which class of furcation defects may be amenable to guided tissue regeneration?

Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) is a surgical procedure designed to encourage the regeneration of periodontal tissues that have been lost due to disease. It involves the use of barrier membranes that prevent the fast-growing connective tissue from interfering with the slower-growing periodontal ligament and alveolar bone.

Class II furcation defects present an opportunity for GTR because they are characterized by partial loss of the bone between the roots of a multi-rooted tooth while still retaining some remaining bone on one side. This retained bone can create a suitable environment for grafting since there is bone present to support new growth. With GTR, a barrier can be placed to facilitate the regeneration of the periodontal support structures, including bone, and optimize healing.

In contrast, Class I defects are more superficial and don’t involve the severity of tissue loss that necessitates advanced regenerative techniques. Class III defects involve complete loss of bone between the roots, which complicates regeneration efforts, as the area is already fully exposed and not limited to a partial defect that can be effectively manipulated. Class IV defects involve severe bone loss where there is no intervening tissue or a means of regenerating the periodontal tissues adequately.

Thus, Class II furcation defects are the most suitable for guided tissue regeneration due to their specific