Periodontal
Dentistry
Guided Tissue Regeneration with Dr. Munro
Prepare Your Smile for Dental Implants
Dental implants are a permanent, natural-looking solution for missing teeth. However, you need a strong jawbone and healthy gums in order to qualify for the procedure, which many patients don’t have.
Thankfully, Dr. Munro can prepare you for implant surgery using guided tissue regeneration. Read on to learn about our featured procedures.
What is Guided Tissue Regeneration?
The traditional method for revitalizing tissues is called a bone or gum graft. It involves taking tissues from a donor or from another part of your body and grafting it to the affected area, then leaving it to heal naturally.
Guided tissue regenerations works in a similar fashion, but far less donor tissue is required and the healing process is specifically guided to ensure optimal results. This is accomplished through the use of barrier membranes that direct the growth of new bone or gum tissues to the areas that need it most.
Socket Preservation
If you’ve had a tooth extracted, it leaves an empty gap in your jawbone. This exposed area becomes very prone to bacteria and can easily become infected. To prevent this from occurring, Dr. Munro places small bone granules into your open socket. This restores the shape of your jawbone and protects it from further deterioration.
Sinus Lift
Many patients who need implants in their upper jaw don’t have the bone strength to support them. A sinus lift procedure involves grafting new bone to the sinus cavities above your jaw, creating the strong foundation you need to support dental implants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is guided tissue regeneration painful?
Dr. Munro will apply anesthesia to numb your gums before the procedure, ensuring you don’t feel any pain. You’ll likely experience some discomfort after the treatment is finished, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications such as Advil or Tylenol. In some cases, Dr. Munro may also prescribe painkillers or antibiotics. To minimize your discomfort, make sure to follow any post-op instructions such as applying ice, avoiding alcohol or smoking, and sticking to a soft-food diet.
Can I get dental implants if I have gum disease?
If gum disease has damaged your oral tissue, they may lack the strength to support dental implants. Thankfully, Dr. Munro can restore the health of your gums and prepare you for implant surgery with guided tissue regeneration. The procedure involves grafting healthy tissue to the deficient parts of your gums and using barrier membranes to direct the growth of new tissues.
Will insurance cover guided tissue regeneration?
Insurance coverage for guided tissue regeneration can vary significantly depending on the terms of your plan, as well as your chosen provider. Many carriers won’t offer any payment at all, while others may cover a portion of your total cost. If you have any questions about your insurance terms, our team will be happy to assist you.