Guided Tissue Regeneration
Your body has a remarkable ability to heal, and sometimes it just needs a little guidance. If periodontal disease has led to bone or gum loss, guided tissue regeneration can help rebuild that essential foundation.
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What is Guided Tissue Regeneration Used For?
Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) is a sophisticated procedure used to restore bone and gum tissue that has been lost due to advanced gum disease. It is a proactive way to save your natural teeth and create a stable foundation for future dental work, like implants.
This procedure is often recommended for:
- Treating deep periodontal pockets that have formed around your teeth
- Rebuilding significant bone loss to improve tooth stability
- Preparing your jaw to successfully receive a dental implant
How Guided Tissue Regeneration Works
The GTR process is based on a simple, yet brilliant principle. After gum disease is treated, the soft gum tissue tends to heal faster than the underlying bone. GTR involves placing a special biocompatible membrane between the gum tissue and the bone.
This membrane acts as a barrier. It blocks the fast-growing soft tissue from filling the space where bone is needed. This gives the slower-growing bone cells the time and space they need to regenerate, effectively rebuilding the support around your tooth.
The Guided Tissue Regeneration Procedure
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation where we use advanced imaging, like X-rays or CBCT scans, to assess the extent of tissue loss. This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan for you.
During the procedure, you can expect the following steps:
- Your comfort is our priority, so we will begin by administering local anesthesia or sedation
- Your periodontist will gently access the area, clean it of bacteria, and place the membrane
- The gum tissue is then secured over the membrane with small sutures to protect the site as it heals
Materials Used in Guided Tissue Regeneration
We use innovative materials to encourage your body’s natural healing process. The membranes come in two types: resorbable ones that dissolve on their own, and non-resorbable ones that are removed later. In some cases, we may also use a bone graft or growth factors to further stimulate new tissue growth.
Recovery and Aftercare
After your procedure, it is normal to experience some temporary swelling or sensitivity. We will provide clear instructions to ensure your recovery is smooth and comfortable. This includes sticking to a soft diet, taking prescribed medications, and using special care when cleaning near the treated area. Our team will schedule follow-up visits to monitor your healing progress.
Benefits of Guided Tissue Regeneration
Choosing this restorative treatment is a powerful step toward securing your long-term oral health. The key benefits include restoring lost bone for better tooth support, reducing the risk of tooth loss, and creating a strong foundation for successful dental implants.
Why Choose Westshore Periodontics & Dental Implants?
Our team of periodontists specializes in advanced gum and bone treatments. We are dedicated to providing personalized care using world-class materials and techniques. We are committed to your comfort and satisfaction every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help you rebuild your smile.
Meet the Team Guiding Your Transformation
Our doctors and staff look forward to taking the time to get to know you. Here’s a quick introduction to our board-certified periodontists.
