Xenograft in Periodontology

Bone grafting is a dynamic phenomenon. A successful bone graft if applied heals, becomes incorporated, re-vascularizes and eventually assumes the form desired. Bone grafting is used by many surgical specialists. Orthopedic surgeons have always pioneered grafting. However, plastic surgeons and dentists especially periodontists and oral surgeons have also become involved in bone grafting. They deal primarily with the bone grafting in the membranous bones and orthopedic surgeons primarily with tubular bones. For the past few decades, periodontists have actively shown interest in bone replacement grafts which has emerged from the desire to "fill" an intrabony defect or furcation defect. The evolution of bone graft from the basic science concept, to clinical applications, has opened up a window to the regeneration therapy.