title: Periodontal regeneration: management of periodontal osseous defects by the periodontist-dental hygienist team.
abstract: Periodontal health can be restored through assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management of periodontal osseous defects by the periodontist-dental hygienist team.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  Treatment of periodontitis has evolved over time, with regenerative periodontal therapy at the forefront in cutting-edge periodontal care. While the techniques and materials available today are allowing therapists to push the limits of periodontal regeneration and achieve success in increasingly more difficult cases, the principles of successful regeneration remain the same. Case selection, identification and resolution of etiologic and contributing factors, proper surgical technique, follow-up and patient education are keys to obtaining a successful outcome. The impact of the dental hygienist in assessment and maintenance is highlighted.
  
  
  METHODS
  Literature review of the key research studies evaluating the etiology and contributing factors in the development osseous defects, osseous defect and tooth-related characteristics, and principles of successful regenerative therapy. The authors draw upon their experience with patient care and clinical research to synthesize the evidence relevant to today's dental hygienist.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Periodontal regeneration is a well-supported and predictable therapy that can be utilized to restore periodontal support and health. The dental hygienist is key in assessing and caring for the periodontal health of patients over time. Identifying who may benefit from regenerative periodontal therapy is an essential skill for today's practicing dental hygienist.
authors.affiliation: Private Practice, Aurora, CO, USA. Electronic address: periocolorado@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Rachel A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Schallhorn
authors.affiliation: Private Practice, Aurora, CO, USA.
authors.forename: Pamela K
authors.initials: PK
authors.lastname: McClain
mesh_terms: D016301:Alveolar Bone Loss / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D003756:Dental Hygienists; D017823:Furcation Defects / Q000601:surgery; D016557:Guided Tissue Regeneration, Periodontal / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D010348:Patient Care Team; D018579:Patient Selection
keywords: Periodontal regeneration; intrabony defect; osseous defect; periodontal regenerative therapy