Efficacy of 3D-Printed Scaffolds in Guided Tissue Regeneration for Combined Endo-Perio Lesions: A Clinical and Radiographic Study.

BACKGROUND

Combined endo-perio lesions (CEPLs) are one of the toughest problems in clinical dentistry because of complex causative factors and multi-rooted anatomical structures. As a result, the treatment outcome using a conventional approach is often erratic and unpredictable. This study investigated the efficacy of 3D-printed scaffolds in guided tissue regeneration (GTR) for managing CEPLs, utilizing a combined clinical and radiographic assessment approach.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

This prospective clinical trial enrolled patients diagnosed with CEPLs. Following endodontic treatment, the lesions were randomly assigned to either a test group (3D-printed scaffold + GTR) or a control group (GTR alone). Clinical parameters, including probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and gingival recession (GR), were recorded at baseline, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively. Radiographic assessments, including bone fill and defect resolution, were performed using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) at the same time intervals.

RESULTS

The test group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in all clinical parameters (PD, CAL, GR) compared to the control group at all follow-up periods (P < 0.05). Radiographic analysis revealed significantly enhanced bone fill and defect resolution in the test group compared to the control group at all time points (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

3d-printed scaffolds in GTR exhibited superior clinical and radiographic outcomes compared to conventional GTR alone in the treatment of CEPLs. The 3D-printed scaffolds promoted enhanced tissue regeneration and bone formation, contributing to improved periodontal healing and defect resolution.