Guided Bone & 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. This is still an effective way of treating gum disease, however 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. Gainey may recommend guided tissue regeneration. During this surgical procedure, the pockets are cleaned thoroughly, and a membrane is installed between the soft tissue and the pocket in the bone. Some of these membranes are bio-absorbable and some require removal at a later date. The membrane covers the pocket so that the fast-growing soft tissue is blocked, and the slower-growing bone can begin to develope, or “regenerate” itself.
The effectiveness of the procedure, generally depends on the patient’s willingness to follow a strict postoperative diet and a rigorous oral hygiene regimen. Dr. Gainey and his team will help you determine if guided bone regeneration surgery is right for you.