Bone Augmentation/Regeneration
Guided bone regeneration (GBR) is a surgical technique used to restore missing bone tissue in the mandible and maxilla caused by periodontal disease (pyorrhea), tooth loss, or trauma. Although bone regeneration techniques vary, they all aim to restore proper bone volume so implants can be placed and fixed teeth can be restored.
BENEFITS
This procedure benefits patients who have lost bone tissue due to:
  • Endodontic infections
  • Periodontal disease
  • Tooth loss that has remained unrepaired for a long time
  • Facial trauma related to accidents, falls, or other traumatic events

Regenerating lost bone also increases the amount of gingiva, improves aesthetics, and enhances function after implant placement and loading with a fixed prosthesis.

HOW IT WORKS
Bone regeneration techniques can be classified into three types:
  • Sinus lift: Indicated for the premolar and molar regions of the upper jaw in patients who have long lost teeth and lack adequate bone thickness between the sinus cavity (within the zygoma) and the dental arch. This surgery increases the thickness of the sinus floor, allowing implants to be placed on the newly regenerated bone. There are two types of sinus augmentation: Small Augmentation and Large Augmentation, depending on whether one or multiple implants need to be placed.
  • Regeneration with resorbable membrane.
  • Regeneration with nonresorbable membrane: Used for more severe bone defects, both horizontal and vertical. This technique can regenerate any type of defect and allows implant placement in areas previously considered impossible to rehabilitate.

As with implantology, these surgical techniques have a long history of use, supported by extensive scientific literature and predictable results. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, is painless, and involves short recovery times. After surgery, a healing period of 3 to 8 months is required for bone integration. Once healed, the patient is ready to receive implants.

RISKS
Like any surgical procedure, bone regeneration carries risks and drawbacks. Patients should carefully evaluate these before proceeding:
  • Pain and swelling are common after the procedure. These symptoms are temporary and manageable with appropriate medication prescribed by the dentist.
  • Postoperative infection is a potential complication for any surgery. Antibiotic coverage and adherence to the dentist’s instructions help minimize this risk.
  • In a small percentage of cases, the bone graft may fail to integrate properly with the patient’s natural bone.
  • Occasionally, the graft material may be resorbed, requiring a second surgery.
  • General surgical risks, such as allergic reactions or bleeding, also apply.

Despite the significant benefits of bone regeneration, patients must be aware that this is a long-term treatment process. Success depends heavily on the patient’s cooperation. Optimal oral hygiene is essential not only for bone and implant healing but also for the longevity of the prosthetic restoration.

The same categories of patients who are not candidates for implantology cannot benefit from bone regeneration:

  • Patients with uncontrolled diabetes, renal or hepatic failure.
  • Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
  • Patients taking bisphosphonate medications.
  • Patients who have recently experienced a myocardial infarction.