Calcium sulphate as a bone substitute for various osseous defects in conjunction with apicectomy

Aim The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of calcium sulphate on various osseous defects when used in conjunction with apicectomy. Methodology Mandibular third and fourth premolars of 11 beagle dogs were used. After root-canal treatment and apicectomy, three types of osseous defects were prepared on both sides of the mandible as follows: type 1, osseous defect communicating with the gingival sulcus; type 2, large osseous defect including two roots; type 3, 'through and through' osseous defect. The experimental side was allocated randomly, and the osseous defects were filled with medical grade calcium sulphate. The defects on the opposite side were left unfilled as controls. The dogs were sacrificed at 8 and 16 weeks postoperatively. Undemineralized sections were obtained and examined histomorphometrically. Results In type 1 defects, bone was not observed on the buccal side of the root on either experimental or control side at 8 and 16 weeks. In both type 2 and 3 defects, bone volume/tissue volume (BV/TV) values on the experimental side were significantly higher than those on the control side (P < 0.01), and mineral apposition rate (MAR) values on the experimental side were significantly higher than those on the control side (P < 0.01). Conclusions The use of calcium sulphate was effective in bone regeneration on both large osseous defects and 'through and through' osseous defects. It was less effective in osseous defects communicating with the gingival sulcus.