Guided Bone Regeneration
Also written as: GBR — Guided Bone Regeneration
A surgical technique in dental research and implantology in which a barrier membrane is placed over a bone defect to exclude non-osteogenic soft tissue cells and permit selective repopulation by bone-forming cells.
Full Definition
Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) is a well-established periodontal and implant surgical procedure derived from the principles of guided tissue regeneration (GTR). It employs resorbable or non-resorbable membranes — sometimes combined with bone grafts — to create a secluded space over bony defects that allows for selective osteogenesis. In dental research manuscripts, GBR and GTR must not be used interchangeably: GBR specifically targets bone regeneration (e.g., for implant site preparation or ridge augmentation), whereas GTR aims to regenerate all periodontal attachment structures including the periodontal ligament. Editors should confirm that the abbreviation GBR is defined at first use and that the type and brand of membrane used are specified in the materials section.
Usage
Usage note: Do not conflate GBR with GTR (guided tissue regeneration). GBR targets bone only; GTR targets the full periodontal attachment apparatus including PDL and cementum.
In Context
- "Guided bone regeneration using a collagen membrane and xenograft was performed simultaneously with implant placement in all patients." — Methods section of a prospective implant case series
- "The author had used 'GTR' and 'GBR' interchangeably throughout; the editor queried the distinction and requested clarification of the clinical procedure performed." — Peer review editorial note on an oral surgery manuscript