Gum disease has traditionally been treated by eliminating the gum pockets. This is done by trimming away the infected gum tissue and 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. Cristoforo may recommend tissue regeneration.
During this surgical procedure, the pockets are thoroughly cleaned, and a membrane is installed between the soft tissue and pocket in the bone. Some of these membranes are bio-absorbable, and some require removal. The membrane covers the pocket so that fast-growing soft tissue is blocked, and slow-growing bone can begin to develop, or "regenerate."
The effectiveness of the guided bone regeneration procedure generally depends on the patient's willingness to follow a strict post-operative diet and proper oral care at home. Dr. Cristoforo will help you determine if bone regeneration surgery is right for you.