Growth FactorsPDGF, BMP & Emdogain

Growth factors are proteins that signal cells to divide, move into a wound and form new tissue. In gum and bone regeneration, a few of them are available as approved medical products and can be applied directly where new tissue is needed.

Why Add a Growth Factor

A bone graft gives new bone a scaffold to grow along. A membrane keeps the gum out of the space. A growth factor adds the signal, recruiting the cells that build bone, ligament and blood vessels. In difficult defects, where healing is slow or the space is large, that signal can improve the result.

Dr. Samadian uses three growth-factor products, each for a different job, alongside your own PRF. Whether one is useful in your case, and which, is decided from the defect itself.

PDGF (GEM 21S®)

Recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor (rhPDGF-BB) is a laboratory-made version of a protein your platelets release at a wound. GEM 21S combines it with a synthetic bone graft material. It is FDA-approved for treating bone defects caused by gum disease, and is also used in gum recession repair, including with the VISTA technique.

It draws in the cells that rebuild bone and ligament and stimulates new blood vessels, which helps a graft take.

BMP (rhBMP-2)

Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 tells cells to become bone-forming cells. It is one of the most potent bone-inducing signals available and is FDA-approved in dentistry for sinus augmentation and for rebuilding the ridge in extraction-socket defects. It is delivered on a collagen sponge, often combined with other graft material.

Because it is so active, it causes more swelling than other grafts in the first days, which is expected and temporary. It is not used during pregnancy, in people who are still growing, or where there is infection or a tumor at the site.

Emdogain® (Enamel Matrix Derivative)

Emdogain is a gel of proteins involved in forming the attachment between tooth root and bone during tooth development. Applied to a cleaned root surface, it supports regrowth of that attachment. It is used in intrabony defects and in root-coverage procedures for recession. It is derived from developing pig teeth; if that matters to you for dietary or religious reasons, say so and an alternative will be used.

What Growth Factors Cannot Do

They do not replace sound surgical technique, a stable graft, good blood supply or a clean mouth. They improve the odds in the right defect; they do not make a poor-prognosis tooth or an unstable graft succeed. They also add cost, so Dr. Samadian recommends them only where they are likely to change the outcome.

Related Treatments

Growth Factors FAQ

What is GEM 21S used for?

GEM 21S combines recombinant PDGF with a synthetic bone graft. It is approved for bone defects caused by gum disease and is also used in gum recession and grafting procedures to support healing.

What is BMP in dental bone grafting?

rhBMP-2 is a laboratory-made protein that tells cells to form bone. In dentistry it is approved for sinus lifts and for rebuilding the ridge in extraction-socket defects, and it is used where a large amount of new bone is needed.

Is BMP safe?

It has been used in dentistry for many years under its approved indications. The most common effect is significant but temporary swelling. It is not used during pregnancy, in growing patients, or where there is infection or a tumor at the site. Dr. Samadian will go through whether it suits you.

Is Emdogain made from animals?

Yes. It is derived from developing pig tooth tissue and highly purified. If you prefer to avoid animal-derived products, tell the team and an alternative will be planned.

Do growth factors replace bone grafts?

No. Growth factors add a biological signal; a graft or scaffold is still needed for the new tissue to form on, and a membrane to protect it.

What is the difference between PRF and PDGF?

PRF is made from your own blood at the chair and contains a natural mix of your platelets' growth factors at modest concentrations. GEM 21S delivers one growth factor, PDGF, manufactured at a consistent, high concentration.

Treating patients throughout San Francisco. Dr. Samadian specializes in treatments such as smile makeovers, porcelain veneers, digital reconstructions, aesthetic dentistry, and dental implants. Focusing on regeneration and restoring tooth structure, bone loss, and gum recession utilizing the latest LANAP laser technology.