Guided Tissue Regeneration Washington DC & Alexandria VA
Guided Tissue Regeneration Washington DC & Alexandria VA
Periodontal disease is an increasingly common inflammatory condition of the bone support and gums surrounding the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease can cause a number of issues to develop, such as swelling and/or bleeding gums. If left untreated long enough, periodontal disease will eventually result in the decay and the deterioration of the jawbone and/or teeth to fall out. Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR) is a technique to help correct periodontal disease by directing the growth of new bone and gingival tissue around a patient’s teeth using barrier membranes, which prohibit cells from penetrating its structure. Guided tissue regeneration is commonly used to facilitate the growth of new jawbone tissue in preparation of a dental implant, but can also be used to repair replenish bone loss following the removal of impacted teeth or cysts.
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, our specialty trained periodontists Dr. Justin Zalewsky and Dr. Antara Daru have years of experience treating a wide range of stages of gum disease and placing dental implants. To learn more about guided tissue regeneration and treatment options for gum disease, our clinic facilities, or to schedule an appointment for a procedure, contact our Alexandria, VA office at (703) 823-2422 or our Washington D.C. office at (202) 296-3360.
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Dr. Zalewsky
Dr. Justin Zalewsky, a graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistry, then went on to Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry where he received his Certificate of Periodontology and Oral Implantology.
Dr. Daru
Dr. Antara Daru, a graduate of New York University College of Dentistry, then went on to University of Maryland, Baltimore College of Dentistry where she received her Masters of Science in Oral Biology and Certificate in Periodontology and Oral Implantology.
Reasons for Guided Tissue Regeneration
The most common reason for having guided tissue regeneration is due to the patient having advanced gum disease. Gum disease is an increasingly common issue that is generally preventable, provided you practice good daily oral hygiene habits and schedule regular visits to your periodontist. If left untreated, gum disease can cause a number of issues to develop, which is why it is so important to schedule regular checkups with your periodontist. These regular visits not only provide you with a professional cleaning, it also allows your periodontist to catch problems before they develop into something worse.
If you have not scheduled an exam in some time and are concerned you might have gum disease, the following symptoms are commonly associated with the disease:
- Gums that are swollen and/or red
- Loose teeth or teeth that have shifted
- Receding gums
- Gums that easily bleed
- Halitosis
- Change in your bite
- Change in the fit of dentures
While these are common symptoms and signs that gum disease may have developed, the only way to know for certain whether or not you have gum disease is to schedule an appointment with your dentist or periodontist.
Guided Tissue Regeneration Expectations
Prior to beginning the guided tissue regeneration process, your periodontist will administer a local anesthetic to ensure any potential pain is minimized. Once you are properly numbed, the infected gum pockets will be cleaned and membranes will be inserted between the pocket and soft tissue in the bone. Once the membrane is properly positioned, there will be a sufficient amount of space for the bone to begin regenerating and the area will be stitched shut so the healing process can begin. The membrane and stitches typically dissolve on their own, and it takes approximately six months for the bone to regenerate to the point where it can hold a dental implant.
Guided Tissue Regeneration Aftercare
Following your guided tissue regeneration procedure, it is essential that you follow aftercare instructions. It is common to experience some discomfort following the procedure, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter medication, such as Advil or Ibuprofen. Swelling is also common and can generally be addressed through the use of ice packs and anti-inflammatory over-the-counter medication.
Once you have completed the recovery process, the most important thing you can do to prevent the need for this type of procedure in the future is to continue practicing good daily oral hygiene practices. Brush and floss twice daily and schedule regular visits to your periodontist to ensure that your teeth receive regular professional cleanings, which will reduce your risk of developing gingivitis or periodontitis. If you follow these best practices, you will enjoy a bright and healthy smile for many years to come!
Guided Tissue Regeneration Cost
The cost of guided tissue regeneration will depend on a variety of factors, including your dental insurance plan, whether or not additional procedures are required, the severity of your case, and what type of dental sedation (if any) was used.
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are committed to ensuring that money is not a deterrent to our patients receiving the optimal dental health care they deserve. For this reason, we offer a range of payment options regardless of what type of treatment you are having, which our staff will be happy to explain and assist with. Our office insurance coordinators work with other insurance companies to assist patients with their claims.
For your convenience, Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry accepts cash, check, debit and credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, Visa, and Discover). Our clinic also accepts CareCredit, a financing option for procedures and treatments not typically covered by insurance, or when insurance does not cover the entire cost. We are happy to provide an application in our office or you can apply online at www.carecredit.com.
Providing you with Optimal Care
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are proud to provide optimal care for patients in the Washington D.C. and Alexandria, VA area, and are dedicated to collaborating with your dentist to provide you with the customized treatment you deserve. In addition to having state-of-the-art equipment, we are also committed to creating a peaceful and relaxing environment, with amenities such as personal movie screens, neck pillows, and soft blankets available regardless of what procedure you are having performed.
To schedule your appointment for guided tissue regeneration, contact us today. We look forward to helping you achieve and maintain a bright and healthy smile!