Guided Bone Regeneration

Guided bone Regeneration, or GBR, is a surgical procedure that can be utilized in some situations to regenerate or regrow bone previously lost to periodontal/gum disease or atrophy. This increases the support for teeth or implants. This treatment can only be applied in some situations and the key to success is careful case selection. Dr. Seale will evaluate your case and advise you if GBR is right for you.

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computer monitor with dental x-ray image

The procedure

The GBR procedure begins with obtaining surgical access to the involved area. Any involved teeth, implants, or bone defects are then carefully cleaned and debrided. Once the bony defect has been cleaned and isolated, a bone graft material is inserted to fill the defect and a barrier membrane is placed over the bone graft. Finally, the gum tissues are sutured closed over the bone graft and membrane.

Treatment

The barrier membrane used to cover the bone grafts acts as a tarp. It keeps the bone graft in place while keeping the gum tissue out of the graft. This allows the necessary time needed for new bone to grow and mature. The membrane is made of bovine collagen and will resorb away in a few months.

dr. seale and assistants reviewing a dental x-ray

01. Clear communication

Dr. Seale and his staff will be happy to help guide you through treatment processes to ensure that you understand your options and benefits.
02. Diagnosis

During your initial exam, Dr. Seale will evaluate your specific needs by performing a thorough examination. He will then advise you of your best treatment options.
03. Treatment

Each patient is different and Dr. Seale will recommend treatment to set the patient up for the best possible chance at success.
04. Maintenance

Periodontal maintenance is a professional cleaning procedure where a hygienist thoroughly cleans the teeth. Maintenance care is critical to maintain a healthy beautiful smile.

Frequently asked questions

01. What bone graft material is used for GBR?

The bone graft material most commonly used for GBR grafting is cadaver bone that has been treated and sterilized to make it safe. The graft material acts as a scaffold that allows your own living bone to grow back through and fill the bony defect. As your new bone grows, the graft material resorbs/dissolves away. This process generally takes 3-6 months to occur, but can take longer in some cases or with larger grafts.
02. What are the benefits of GBR?

The benefits of GBR include increasing your body’s natural ability to heal and repair, reducing pocket depths, and reversing some of the damage caused by progression of periodontal disease.