(TC34) Management of Different Types of Through and Through Defects Using Guide Tissue Regeneration (GTR)

Abstract: Through-and-through defects result in the perforation of both alveolar cortical plates, buccal and lingual/palatal, at the apical region, causing communication between the flapped tissues (usually buccal) and the unflapped tissues (usually lingual/palatal). Multiple approaches have been proposed to manage these defects using different regenerative materials, such as resorbable membranes with or without graft material, calcium sulfate, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). However, there is no consensus on the ultimate management protocol for these defects, which leaves clinicians uncertain about the long-term prognosis. A possible reason for the different outcomes is the variation in how through-and-through defects may present clinically. Such variations may require different management strategies for more predictable outcomes. In this table clinic, we will present the different types of through-and-through defects that could be encountered clinically and the recommended management approach for each condition for predictable hard-tissue remodeling.