What is the definition of "periodontal regeneration"?

Periodontal regeneration refers specifically to the process of restoring the periodontium, which includes the bone, cementum, and periodontal ligament, to a state of health through the promotion of new tissue growth. This regenerative process is crucial in treating periodontal disease, as it aims to not only halt disease progression but also repair and revitalize the structures that support the teeth. Procedures involved in periodontal regeneration may include the use of regenerative materials such as membranes, grafts, or growth factors, which help facilitate the formation of new, healthy tissues.

The other options focus on different aspects of periodontal treatment. For instance, the removal of diseased tissue is considered periodontal debridement, not regeneration. Cleaning and scaling are preventative measures aimed at plaque control, thereby not directly regenerating damaged tissues. Tooth extraction might be necessary in cases of severe periodontal disease but is not a regenerative process; it is a last-resort intervention to manage disease spread. Hence, option B correctly encapsulates the essence of periodontal regeneration as it emphasizes the restorative aspect of regenerating lost periodontal structures.