Non Resorbable Membranes – Frequently Asked Questions for Dentists
With non resorbable membranes, you can perform guided bone regeneration (GBR) without the risk of the barrier failing during the initial healing period. Get answers to the most important questions and learn more about PTFE non resorbable membranes for use in your dental surgery.
What are Non Resorbable Membranes Made From?
PTFE, or Polytetrafluoroethylene, is a specialized type of plastic that has a wide range of industrial and commercial uses. It is used in the field of dentistry to develop non resorbable membranes.
Polytetrafluoroethylene is a fluoropolymer, developed from tetrafluoroethylene. It has a range of advanced material properties that make it ideal for dentistry.
- The material displays excellent chemical resistance. It won’t become reactive or change states when exposed to chemicals from the body or food and beverages.
- It has a wide range of service temperatures and a melting point beyond 600°F. It can withstand the temperatures of the human body without degrading.
- The material is non-wetting, so it won’t absorb moisture from the body or from nutrients.
PTFE is a food-grade material, and many will know it from the brand name Teflon. In dentistry, it is used for a much different purpose, which is creating a membrane barrier for guided bone regeneration.
As a synthetic material developed in a laboratory, PTFE is incredibly safe and consistent, so you can expect the same performance from every membrane. Membranes are packaged sterile for single use and can be cut to shape for the procedure.
How Long Should Non Resorbable Membranes be Left in Place
Non resorbable membranes for GBR are intended to isolate the gingival tissue from the bone grafting material so that the remodeling process can begin. Essentially, the membrane ensures that bone develops where bone should be so that the site can be prepared for future restorations.
In most cases, the membrane can be removed after the first four weeks. At this stage, it should be possible to see mature tissue with some bone graft portions that are yet to be remodeled. It isn’t necessary to use a dressing at this stage. Grafting materials will fully remodel after the first four to five months if the patient doesn’t have any complications that would interfere with healing.
What’s the Difference Between Smooth and Textured Non Resorbable Membranes?
Smooth and textured membranes are unique in their handling properties, although the differences are subtle, and most experienced clinicians will be able to achieve the same surgical outcomes using either material.
At Dental Implant Technologies, we supply Cytoflex® PTFE Membranes available in smooth or textured variants.
Whether choosing the smooth or textured options, both have a microscopic texture. This can’t be seen or felt, but it does allow for efficient adhesion to bony structures and soft tissues. The textured variant can provide improved grip and handling, especially when tucking the membrane below the gingiva for suturing. In many cases, it will come down to the personal preference of the clinician. We recommend ordering smooth and textured versions if you are curious about the performance of non resorbable membranes so that you can choose the one that best works with your workflow.
Should You Underfill or Overfill When Using Non Resorbable Membranes?
There are two options available to clinicians when packing a bone graft for guided bone regeneration.
- Underfilling leaves the grafting material packed just below the crest level of the bone before the membrane is applied. This is the most common technique.
- Overfilling introduces additional bone graft material to fill all the way to the top of the crest. Although there is limited research, this can potentially enhance the graft as there will be additional materials available once the materials below are fully remodeled to the patient’s bone.
While both methods can produce reliable results for guided bone regeneration, underfilling is more economical and in many cases more ideal. Some clinicians may find that grafting materials remain when using the overfilling method, indicating that it is likely unnecessary.
In any case, underfilling just below the crest line will produce the best result without waste.
Do Non Resorbable Membranes Allow Nutrient Penetration?
The best membranes provide a few key properties…
- They prevent unwanted cell migration.
- They allow nutrients to pass through to the treatment site.
- They Stop bacteria.
Non resorbable membranes made with PTFE perform excellently in all three areas. Cytoflex® PTFE non resorbable membranes are designed with microscopic perforations that allow nutrients to transfer through the barrier, ensuring that the grafting site gets the oxygen and cellular nutrients that are necessary for bone remodeling.
At the same time, the barrier stops bacteria from passing through, so the risk of infection is minimized. The barrier also prevents unwanted cell migration to ensure that remodeled bone meets the shape and density requirements planned by the surgeon.
If you want the most reliable outcome from every GBR procedure, Cytoflex® PTFE membranes will deliver beyond your expectations.
Where Can I Order Non Resorbable Membranes Online?
Dental Implant Technologies stocks an extensive range of regenerative dental products, including non resorbable membranes. With competitive pricing and swift delivery to your practice in the United States, you can get the best surgical supplies conveniently and within your budget. Browse our Cytoflex® membranes and our complete range of dental membranes to place your order today.