Guided bone regeneration is a procedure in which the dentist uses bone grafting material to ensure jawbone regeneration. The primary purpose of guided bone regeneration is ensuring you have sufficient bone structure to support dental implants, the best tooth replacement option available.
Loss of teeth also leads to loss of bone structure under the socket of the missing tooth, since the jawbone no longer has an impetus to grow. Over time, your jawbone atrophies, and you can lose up to 25% of your jawbone structure within a year of your tooth loss. Without enough jawbone, you can’t get dental implants.
Getting dental implants is the most effective means of replacing a missing tooth. The dentist plants a titanium post into the jawbone of the missing tooth. Over time, the jawbone heals and grows around the implant, rooting it firmly in place. The titanium implant serves as a foundation on which dental crowns and bridges can be attached.
Guided bone regeneration leads to the growth of the lost jawbone, which, in turn, allows you to get dental implants. During the guided bone regeneration procedure, the dentist plants bone grafting material into the gum flaps of the empty socket with some collagen. The bone graft material facilitates bone growth, eventually restoring the lost jawbone structure.
The bone graft material can be derived from various sources — another part of your body, another individual, an animal, or synthetic sources. Your dentist will discuss the pros, cons, and costs associated with all types of GTR and bone graft material, allowing you to make an informed choice.
