Guided Tissue Regeneration in Pembroke, ON
Take the First Step Towards Healthier Gums
If you are experiencing gum disease or have lost bone and gum tissue due to periodontal disease, guided tissue regeneration (GTR) may be the solution you need to restore your oral health. At Parkview Dental, Dr. James Munro, our caring Pembroke, ON, dentist, offers GTR to patients seeking to prevent further damage to their teeth and gums. Learn more about this painless procedure and how you may benefit.
What is Guided Tissue Regeneration?
Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) is a dental procedure that regenerates lost gum tissue and bone caused by periodontal disease. This surgical technique uses a barrier membrane to guide new bone and gum tissue growth. The membrane acts as a physical barrier between the gum tissue and the tooth root, preventing the growth of unwanted cells and allowing new tissue to regenerate.
Benefits of Guided Tissue Regeneration
Some of the benefits of guided tissue regeneration include:
- Improved Periodontal Health: GTR can help regenerate lost periodontal structures, which can lead to improved periodontal health, preventing further tooth loss and improving the long-term prognosis of teeth.
- Bone Regeneration: This procedure can help stimulate the regeneration of bone in the jaw, strengthening the bone and improving the support for teeth.
- Reduced Tooth Mobility: GTR can help reduce tooth mobility caused by periodontitis. This can lead to improved function and stability of the teeth.
- Improved Aesthetics: Regenerating lost periodontal structures can help restore the natural shape and contour of the gums to improve the appearance of the teeth.
- Preservation of Teeth: This procedure can help preserve teeth that would otherwise be lost due to periodontal disease.
When is Guided Tissue Regeneration Necessary?
Guided tissue regeneration is typically recommended for patients who have experienced significant bone and gum tissue loss due to periodontal disease. Patients with advanced gum disease may have deep pockets around the teeth, which can lead to the loss of bone and gum tissue that support the teeth.
GTR is a highly effective treatment for regenerating this lost tissue, helping to restore oral health and prevent further damage to the teeth and gums. However, the procedure’s success depends on various factors, including the extent of the damage and the patient’s overall oral health. It is best to consult with Dr. Munro to determine if GTR is the ideal treatment for your needs.
The Guided Tissue Regeneration Process
Here are the basic steps of how guided tissue regeneration works:
- Dr. Munro will first clean the affected area, removing any plaque and bacteria that may be present.
- Your dentist will then make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the damaged area.
- He’ll then remove any damaged tissue before thoroughly cleaning the area.
- Dr. Munro will then place a special membrane over the exposed bone and gum tissue to guide the regeneration process. The membrane keeps the gum tissue from growing into the bone tissue, allowing the bone to regenerate on its own.
- Our Pembroke dentist will suture the gum tissue back into place over the membrane.
- Over time, the bone tissue will regenerate and grow, restoring the support for the teeth and improving oral health. The membrane will dissolve, leaving behind new tissue and a healthier smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is guided tissue regeneration painful?
Not at all! During the guided tissue regeneration procedure, patients are typically given local anesthesia to numb the affected area and minimize discomfort or pain. After the procedure, patients may experience mild discomfort or swelling. Any soreness can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications.
How long does guided tissue regeneration take?
The length of time for guided tissue regeneration can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the patient’s overall oral health. The procedure typically takes about one hour to complete. Following the procedure, patients will need to return to the dentist for follow-up appointments to monitor the progress of the tissue regeneration.
Is guided tissue regeneration the same as bone graft?
Guided tissue regeneration and bone grafting are similar because they both promote the growth of new tissue in the mouth. GTR involves a special membrane to guide the regeneration of bone and gum tissue, while bone grafting involves adding bone tissue to an area where the bone has been lost. Both procedures can restore oral health, though the choice between them will depend on the patient’s needs.
How long does it take to recover from guided tissue regeneration?
The recovery time for guided tissue regeneration can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the patient’s oral health. Most patients will experience some mild discomfort or swelling in the days following the procedure, but this typically subsides within a week or two. Patients should follow their dentist’s instructions for post-operative care to ensure the best results.