Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) represents one of the most significant advances in the area of bone regeneration for the successful placement of dental implants. 

 

History of guided bone regeneration

La guided bone regeneration It has its origins in the 1980s, when researchers discovered that the use of barrier membranes could promote the selective formation of bone tissue. This discovery revolutionized dental implantology:

  • 1982: First studies on tissue regeneration.
  • 1988: Development of the first specific membranes.
  • 1990s: Implementation in dental procedures.
  • 2000s: Introduction of advanced biomaterials.
  • Current events: Minimally invasive techniques and digitalization.

Photo of a ROG guided bone regeneration membrane for boneless implants

What is Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR)?

It is a Surgical technique for regenerating bone which uses special membranes and graft materials to stimulate new bone formation in areas where bone has been lost. This procedure is based on the principle of guided tissue regeneration, where a membrane acts as a barrier to prevent soft tissue from invading the space intended for bone formation.

 

When to use this technique?

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) is ideal in cases of moderate bone loss, when bone reconstruction is needed to allow the placement of dental implants. These are some of the most indicated cases:

  • Localized bone defects: for specific areas where bone has been lost due to tooth extraction or previous infections.
  • Moderate bone atrophy: in patients with progressive bone loss, but who still retain some bone structure that can regenerate.
  • Post-extraction socket preservation:After a tooth extraction, ROG is used to prevent bone resorption and maintain the bone volume needed for a future implant.
  • maxillary sinus lift: In the upper jaw, when there is little bone under the maxillary sinus to support an implant, ROG helps to increase bone volume in this area.
  • Peri-implantitis cases: for patients who have lost bone around existing implants due to infections and need to regenerate bone to stabilize them.

Guided bone regeneration is effective in these situations because it allows bone to grow back in specific areas, regaining the volume necessary for safe and long-lasting support of the bones. implants.

 

Previous evaluation

Before performing the procedure, the specialist will perform a preliminary evaluation to determine whether it is the appropriate bone regeneration technique. The evaluation consists of these steps:

  • 3D computed tomography.
  • Bone density analysis.
  • Soft tissue assessment.
  • Study of occlusion.

 

ROG Specific Apps

ROG in Periodontology

La ROG It is used to treat bone loss caused by periodontal diseasess, like the periodontitisThis technique helps to restore the bone that supports the teeth, stabilising them and improving tissue health. By using membranes and grafting materials, ROG guides the growth of new bone in the affected areas, preventing the progression of the disease and reducing the risk of tooth loss.

 

Specific benefits in periodontics:

  • Regeneration of lost periodontal tissues.
  • Improved long-term dental prognosis.
  • Stabilization of compromised teeth.
  • Recovery of gingival architecture.

 

Post-extraction guided bone regeneration

This technique is used in dentistry to promote bone formation in areas where the maxillary or mandibular bone has been lost, whether due to tooth extraction, periodontal disease, or trauma. Its aim is to create a stable bone base for future restorations, such as the placement of dental implants.

 

When is post-extraction ROG performed?

Following tooth extraction, especially in areas of aesthetic or functional importance (for example, in the anterior area of ​​the mandible or maxilla), bone resorption is common. Post-extraction GBR allows bone volume to be maintained or improved in the area, greatly increasing the chances of success in subsequent treatments, such as implants.

Photo of the guided bone regeneration process after extraction for dental implant

 

Step-by-step process of Guided Bone Regeneration

Diagnosis and planning

  1. Complete radiographic evaluation.
  2. Analysis of the amount of bone needed.
  3. Selection of appropriate materials.
  4. Digital surgical planning.

 

Surgical procedure

  1. Local anesthesia.
  2. Incision and elevation of the flap.
  3. Preparation of the receiving bed.
  4. Placement of graft material.
  5. Installation of the membrane.
  6. Suture and closure.

ROG guided bone regeneration with membrane

Materials used in Guided Bone Regeneration

As main materials the graft materials that are placed in the area with bone loss to stimulate new bone growth. A graft is placed on top of the graft. biocompatible membrane which acts as a barrier, preventing soft tissue from invading the area and allowing the bone to regenerate properly.

The membrane and graft work together to create an optimal environment where the bone can grow in a controlled manner, restoring the bone structure necessary for healthy dental support.

 

Types of membranes for bone regeneration

Absorbable
  • Collagen: natural and easy to use, it is reabsorbed in 4-6 months.
  • Synthetic (PGA/PLA): they better control the reabsorption time.

 

Non-absorbable
  • e-PTFE: very resistant; requires second surgery to remove.
  • Titanium reinforcement: additional rigidity for large defects.

 

Bioactive
  • With growth factors: they accelerate regeneration.
  • Hydroxyapatite: promotes bone mineralization.

 

Grafting materials:

  • Autograft (from the patient himself)
  • Allograft (from human donor)
  • Xenograft (of animal origin)
  • Synthetic materials

 

Recovery and postoperative care after Guided Bone Regeneration

Healing phases:

  • 1-2 days: initial swelling.
  • 7-10 days: sutures removed.
  • 2-3 weeks: soft tissue healing.
  • 4-6 months: complete bone regeneration.

 

Necessary care:

  • Prescribed medication.
  • Careful oral hygiene.
  • Soft diet.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise.
  • No smoking.

Before and after case of bone regeneration for dental implants

Advantages and disadvantages of Guided Bone Regeneration

Advantages:

  • High treatment predictability.
  • Possibility of regenerating lost bone.
  • Allows the placement of implants.
  • Superior aesthetic results.
  • Widely studied technique.
  • Multiple material options.

 

Disadvantages:

  • Requires specific professional experience.
  • Longer treatment time.
  • Additional costs.

 

Guided Bone Regeneration Price

The price ranges from €150 to €3.500, depending on the size of the area to be treated, the materials used and the experience of the professional.

 

ROG FAQ

Is the procedure painful?

No, since it is performed under local anesthesia and the postoperative period is usually well tolerated with the prescribed medication.

 

How long should I wait for the implant?

Between 4 and 6 months, depending on the amount of regeneration needed.

 

What complications can occur in guided bone regeneration? Are there any risks?

As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection or complications, but these are minimal with a qualified professional.

 

What is the success rate of guided bone regeneration?

ROG has a success rate of over 90% when performed correctly.

 

 

Click to rate us!
(Votes: 0 Average: 0)

 

Dr. Alejandro Prieto
Follow Me
Dr. Alejandro Prieto
Graduate in Dentistry. Faculty of Dentistry (1996 - 2001). University of Barcelona.

Diploma of Advanced Studies in Clinical Techniques in Dentistry. (2002 - 2003). University of Barcelona.

Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Dental Aesthetics. Catalan Society of Odontostomatology. Barcelona (2004 -2005).
Dr. Alejandro Prieto
Follow Me
Latest posts by Dr. Alejandro Prieto (see everything)