Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR)

GTR, or guided tissue regeneration, is a type of dental surgical procedure that uses barrier membranes to direct the growth of new bone and gingival tissue. It is employed at sites with insufficient volumes or dimensions of bone or gingiva for proper function, esthetics, or prosthetic restoration. Guided tissue regeneration uses a membrane at the surgical site to prevent soft tissue cells from growing into and over the new bone. This allows the bone to integrate without interference from other cells or pathogens that might otherwise disrupt the process. Bone grafts are often needed for implant patients who have insufficient bone for the process. The graft will provide new bone for the support, strength, and anchorage of the implant once it is placed. This gives the implant greater stability and an increased longevity. The use of GTR following a bone grafting procedure enhances the new bone’s ability to heal and create a strong foundation for the implant.