Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What yields the best results for guided tissue regeneration?

1. Class 1 furcation

2. Class 2 furcation

3. Class 3 furcation

4. Class 4 furcation

The correct answer is: Class 2 furcation

Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) aims to promote the regeneration of periodontal tissues by preventing the epithelial tissue from interfering with the healing and formation of new bone and periodontal ligament. Among the various classifications of furcation involvement, a Class 2 furcation provides the most favorable conditions for GTR. Class 2 furcation indicates partial loss of periodontal support in the furcation area, where there is vertical bone loss but the furcation remains partly covered by the surrounding alveolar bone. This configuration allows for the placement of barrier membranes used in GTR, as there is enough surrounding structure to support the healing process and guide new tissue growth. The periodontal tissues have the potential to regenerate because the access for epithelial migration is limited compared to more severe forms of furcation involvement. In contrast, Class 1 furcations have minimal bone loss and are generally easier to treat but may not require guided tissue techniques. Class 3 furcation indicates complete penetration through the furcation with significant bone loss, making it less conducive for successful guided regeneration. Class 4 furcation is similar but with additional involvement of the neighboring teeth, often indicating a worse prognosis for regeneration efforts due to the extensive loss of periodontal support. Overall, Class 2 furcations strike a balance