A new technique for root coverage using buccal fat pad--a short case report.

Gingival recession presents a multifactorial etiology that may be associated with anatomical, physiologic, or pathologic factors. Several surgical techniques are described to manage the gingival recession. The buccal fat pad is a specialized organized fat tissue that maintains its volume and structure over a long period of time. It can also serve as a well-vascularized, readily obtainable local flap for reconstructive purposes as root coverage for severe recession defects, increasing the dimensions of keratinized mucosa. The aim of this case report is to establish a new technique for root coverage using pedicled buccal fat pad in Miller Class III recession on the maxillary right first molar.

Effect of a controlled release device containing minocycline microspheres on the treatment of chronic periodontitis: A comparative study.

INTRODUCTION: Adjunctive therapy with locally delivered antimicrobials has resulted in improved clinical outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of locally administered minocycline microspheres (Arestin) in the treatment of chronic periodontitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 60 sites from 15 patients in the age group of 35-50 years, who had periodontal pockets measuring 5-8 mm and had been diagnosed with chronic periodontitis, were selected for the study. The selected groups were randomly assigned to either the control group (group A) or the treatment/test group (group B). Only scaling and root planing were done at the base line visit for the control sites followed by local application of Arestin (1 mg). Clinical parameters such as plaque index, gingival index, and gingival bleeding index were recorded at baseline, day 30, day 90, and day 180 in the selected sites of both the groups. Probing pocket depth also was recorded at baseline, day 90, and day 180 for both the groups. RESULTS: A statistically significant reduction was observed in both groups. Group B showed better results than Group A and these differences were statistically significant. CONCLUSION: The results of this study clearly indicate that treatment with scaling and root planing plus minocycline microspheres (Arestin) is more effective and safer than scaling and root planing alone in reducing the signs of chronic periodontitis.

Principles of gene therapy.

Genes are specific sequences of bases that encode instructions to make proteins. When genes are altered so that encoded proteins are unable to carry out their normal functions, genetic disorders can result. Gene therapy is designed to introduce genetic material into cells to compensate for abnormal genes or to make a beneficial protein. This article reviews the fundamentals in gene therapy and its various modes of administration with an insight into the role of gene therapy in Periodontics and future percepts and the technical and ethical issues of using gene therapy.