What are Dental Regenerative Procedures?

Dental regenerative procedures are performed by periodontists to promote regeneration of bone and tissues supporting the teeth that have been lost as a result of periodontal infection. 

What are Different Types of Dental Regenerative Procedures?

Dentists and periodontists use different types of regenerative procedures to offset the damages caused by periodontal inflammation:

Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) 

Guided bone regeneration is a process in which dentists promote the formation of bone tissue in areas where excessive bone loss has occurred due to gum disease. During this procedure, your dentist will first fold back your gums to expose the underlying tooth structure – and remove the plaque and tartar deposits. Afterward, they will place an artificial or natural bone graft at the site to replenish the lost tissue. Your dentist will also place a membrane material that will encourage the surgical site to heal and accelerate the process of bone formation and fusion around the bone graft.

Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR)

Guided tissue regeneration is a procedure in which periodontists regenerate the tissues that support the teeth – the periodontal ligament and gums. Dentists use a special membrane, coupled with growth factors and stem cells to promote the growth of the supporting tissues. The special membrane ensures undisturbed healing of the site while also restricting the growth to the specific region.   

Bone Grafts 

Bone grafts are required when there is extensive bone loss around the teeth and the body doesn’t have the capacity to replenish it. In this case, your dentist will fold back your gums to expose the underlying tooth, and place a suitable bone graft material. If the jaw bone needs regeneration, the dentist will place that surgically. Afterward, he or she will suture your gums back into position. 

The bone graft gradually attaches to the surrounding bone and promotes further bone tissue formation. In this way, the lost bone tissue is replenished. 

Depending on the severity of the condition, dentists use different types of bone grafts sourced from human or animal tissue or artificial bone grafting materials. 

Dentists perform regenerative procedures only when the underlying problem has been treated. First, your dentist will perform professional teeth cleaning to remove all the plaque and tartar deposits. He or she may also prescribe antibiotics to kill the bacteria and accelerate the healing process. Once the gum disease has been treated, your dentist will begin the regenerative treatment.