Implications of cellular and molecular biology advances in periodontal regeneration

BACKGROUND: The mechanisms by which new periodontium is established on root surfaces previously exposed to periodontal disease has been an area of active research interest for the past decade. METHODS: Recently, histological examination of periodontal regeneration has revealed a complex process orchestrated by temporo-spatial specific cell-matrix interactions. RESULTS: Advances in cell and molecular biology techniques have provided invaluable tools to begin investigating the cascade of events occurring periodontal regeneration. CONCLUSION: This report summarizes current understanding of the cellular and molecular aspects of periodontal regeneration and determines the clinical relevance of these findings.