Guided Bone and Tissue Regeneration

Gum disease has traditionally been treated by eliminating the gum pockets by trimming away the infected gum tissue and by re-contouring the uneven bone tissue. Although this is still an effective way of treating gum disease, new and more sophisticated procedures are used routinely today. One of these advancements is guided bone regeneration, also referred to as guided tissue regeneration. This procedure is used to stabilize endangered teeth or to prepare the jaw for dental implants.

As periodontal disease progresses, pockets of degenerated bone develop in the jaw. These pockets can promote the growth of bacteria and the spread of infection. To address these pockets, Dr. Roberts or Dr. Goodner may recommend tissue regeneration. During this surgical procedure, the pockets are cleaned thoroughly, and a membrane is placed between the soft tissue and the pocket in the bone. Many of these membranes are bio-absorbable, though some require removal. The membrane separates the fast-growing soft tissues from the area of bone loss. This allows slower-growing bone to begin to fill the site, promoting regeneration.

The effectiveness of the procedure is enhanced by the patient’s willingness to follow a strict postoperative protocol. Dr. Roberts or Dr. Goodner will help you determine if bone regeneration surgery is right for you.