While severe cases of periodontal disease are characterized by bone loss, early stages of the disease start with the recession of gum and periodontal ligament. Typically, in the first stage (mild cases) periodontal pockets with 1 to 2 mm depth are formed. With progression to moderate cases, periodontal ligament and gum further recede resulting in pocket depths of 3 to 4 mm. These pockets continue to grow during further progression of the disease, affecting the jaw bone, ultimately resulting in tooth loss (severe periodontal disease).

To prevent the disease from progressing to advanced stages it is crucial to treat mild and moderate cases at the earliest possible point in time. In contrast to the treatment for severe periodontal disease, which is focused on bone augmentation, current therapies for mild and moderate cases of periodontal disease are targeted at plaque removal and antibiotics treatment. Current treatments include:

• Antibiotics and disinfectants used systemically, locally or as mouth rinsing solutions.
• Scaling and root planing, including the mechanical cleaning of the tooth roots.

The current preferred therapy involving antibiotics treatment does not provide for active regeneration of the receding periodontal attachment apparatus. Patients therefore require a lifelong therapy at regular intervals, which causes psychological strain for the patients and creates cost burdens for the health care system. Effective regenerative treatments for mild to moderate periodontal disease are thus urgently needed.

Scil Technology is developing MD08, an growth factor activated adhesive paste for the non-surgical regenerative treatment of mild to moderate periodontal disease. Following scaling and root planing, MD08 is applied directly through injection into the periodontal pocket. Once in place, MD08 is expected to encourage the regrowth of periodontal attachment apparatus.