Bone Regeneration
Traditionally, eliminating the gum pockets by trimming away the infected gum tissue and by re-contouring the uneven bone tissue treats gum disease. Although this is still an effective way of treating gum disease, new and more sophisticated procedures are used routinely today.
Guided Tissue Bone Regeneration "regenerates" the previously lost gum and bone tissue. Most techniques utilize membranes, which are inserted over the bone defects. Some of these membranes are bio-absorbable and some require removal. Other regenerative procedures involve the use of bioactive gels.
In the past the only thing we could do was to stop the disease.
To stop the progression of the disease and eliminate the inflammatory process, plaque and calculus have to be removed. Often surgical treatment is necessary in order to carefully clean deep pockets. At the same time, diseased tissue can be removed and pockets reduced. The result is healthy tissues and teeth as well as shallow gingival pockets which are easier to clean. With deeper pockets and more advanced bone loss, this may not be the best treatment, because the tooth supporting tissues that already have been lost are not regained. Ideal treatment would be one that stops the disease process and regenerates lost bone.
Today, modern periodontics has a new therapy.
Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR)
During surgery, a thin film-like material, called a barrier, is placed around the tooth root and covered by the gingiva. The barrier keeps the gingiva away and provides a space for the remaining healthy periodontal ligament to regenerate and connect new fibers with the tooth root as well as to allow for bone regrowth.
In some cases, a dissolving barrier can be used, but in other situations, it is best to use a barrier that will not dissolve and is removed in a minor secondary procedure 4-6 weeks later.
Our periodontal team will explain everything in detail.
Of course there are limits to what GTR therapy can do. It's not magic. But it gives the body a chance to recreate original conditions. If we recommend GTR therapy, do not hesitate to ask any questions that are on your mind. Our team can explain the treatment and how it works.
You will be instructed on how to keep the treated area clean after surgery. It is extremely important that you follow these instructions exactly.
After surgery, you will have to return for follow-up visits. We will advise you when and how many times.
The final choice of therapy is yours. You can give your teeth a second chance.