The effect of topical citric acid application on the healing of experimental furcation defects in dogs

In a previous study, citric acid‐conditioning of the root surface greatly improved the rate of success of new‐attachment procedures in periodontal furcation pockets in mandibular premolars of Labrador retrievers (Crigger et al. 1978). In the present study, this experimental approach was tested in six beagles. The furcations on one side in each dog were reoperated six weeks after the first surgery. In 27 of the 35 treated teeth, mesiodistal sections showed closure of the furcation and new connective tissue attachment including deposition of new cementum. The extension of new attachment in the buccolingual dimension of the furcation, however, was not improved by repeating the surgical procedure.