Guided tissue regeneration, commonly referred to as GTR, is a surgical procedure used to restore bone and connective tissue lost to periodontal disease. When gum disease progresses, harmful bacteria form deep pockets between the teeth and gums, leading to the gradual breakdown of the bone structure holding teeth in place. Without intervention, this process continues silently until teeth become loose and extraction becomes likely. GTR gives your body the conditions it needs to reverse that damage and rebuild.
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The procedure works by placing a specialized biocompatible membrane between the bone and the overlying gum tissue. This membrane acts as a barrier, preventing faster-growing gum tissue from filling the space where bone regeneration needs to occur. By keeping gum tissue out of the way, slower-growing bone cells have the room to repopulate and rebuild the damaged area naturally. According to the American Dental Association, regenerative procedures using membranes, bone grafts, or tissue-stimulating proteins are an important component of surgical periodontal treatment when disease has caused significant tissue destruction. The membranes used may be resorbable, dissolving on their own over time, or non-resorbable, which are removed at a follow-up appointment once healing is underway.