PTFE Dental Membrane Benefits and Uses

If you’re seeking the most reliable guided bone regeneration (GBR) membrane, a PTFE dental membrane is the ideal option. Designed for durability and successful surgical outcomes, the best PTFE membranes are available at Dental Implant Technologies.

Explore the unique advantages of PTFE dental membranes and order online from our secure storefront.

Material Qualities of PTFE Membrane

PTFE, formally known as Polytetrafluoroethylene, is a synthetic polymer that has wide industrial and commercial uses. The material has diverse applications ranging from electronic cable jackets to cookware. In dentistry, PTFE is used to develop reliable and extremely durable non-resorbable membranes.

PTFE has superior chemical and thermal properties, making it ideal for guided bone regeneration where it can be exposed to fluids as well as tissues and nutrients. The material is stable at low temperatures and even high temperatures, with a melting temperature exceeding 600°F. Even with temperature changes in the mouth, a PTFE membrane can continue to perform as a barrier.

In most applications, PTFE is a non-porous material that creates a solid barrier. However, the PTFE membranes used for dentistry have micropores that can prevent the transfer of contaminants into the grafting site, while still allowing interstitial fluids to penetrate.

PTFE membranes are soft and supple which allows for excellent handling. They can be cut to shape to suit the specific surgical application.

The Clinical Advantages of PTFE Dental Membranes

The main advantages of PTFE dental membranes stem from the reliability and durability of the membrane. As a non-resorbable material, the barrier will remain strong for as long as is needed. You will usually see strong bone regeneration within 4-5 months of healing.

  • The microporous structure of PTFE dental membranes is a key aspect of the overall performance. The matrix of tiny pores achieves two important tasks. Firstly, it prevents the penetration of bacteria into the grafting site, to prevent infections during the healing and regeneration stages. Secondly, the matrix diffuses interstitial fluids which help to promote healing at the grafting site. Interstitial fluids carry oxygen and nutrients to cells.
  • Handling is important for any type of dental membrane. A soft and pliable membrane is easy to drape and position around the treatment site. PTFE dental membranes are exceptionally easy to handle. At a microscopic level, the surface of PTFE membranes is always slightly textured, even when choosing a membrane that appears smooth to the touch. The texturing ensures easier adhesion to soft and hard tissues, reducing stress during placement and suturing.
  • PTFE membranes won’t degrade during the healing and regeneration stages of GBR. The material will remain fully intact until removal during a follow-up procedure. This makes PTFE membranes an excellent choice for situations where primary closure is unavailable, such as following extractions of heavily degraded molars.
  • PTFE membranes prevent gingival tissue from migrating to the grafting site. This ensures that bone regeneration is consistent and predictable.

One of the best solutions for treatments ahead of the placement of dental implants, PTFE membranes are the preferred choice for discerning dentists. If you want a high-performance non-resorbable membrane that is suited to even the most complex GBR cases, PTFE membranes can exceed your performance requirements.

Toxicity and Safety for Patients

PTFE membranes create no risk of toxicity and no reliable clinical sources indicate that PTFE could be a cause of negative tissue reaction. Clinicians familiar with other materials can easily transition to PTFE membranes without introducing added risks or complexities for their patients.

PTFE can produce toxic compounds but only after exceeding the melting point, which is impossible when implanted in a medical context.

The Best PTFE Membranes are Available at Dental Implant Technologies

We are an authorized supplier of Cytoflex® Tef-Guard PTFE membranes, available as smooth or textured products. Keep in mind that both options have a microscopically textured surface to enhance adhesion.

Available in 12x24mm and 25x30mm sizes, the membranes can be cut to size and shape during the procedure. Membranes are packaged sterile for single use. Once cut and shaped, the remaining portion cannot be sterilized and reused. Offcuts should be immediately discarded.

What’s the best membrane for your surgical needs? This comes down primarily to handling preference. With a rougher texture on the PTFE dental membrane, it can be easier to handle and place. Often, this is at the discretion of the clinician, according to preference.

When transitioning to a new type of membrane or a new brand, or for a less experienced dentist, it’s often better to sample both types to find a preference. Textured membranes can be used for more complex and posterior surgeries where access and maneuverability are limited. The texture can make placement easier in some cases.

The Leading Supplier of Reliable PTFE Dental Membranes

Order from Dental Implant Technologies when you need reliable PTFE dental membranes for oral procedures. Suitable whenever you seek a non-resorbable barrier, PTFE membranes allow for predictable healing and bone regeneration while separating the soft tissue from the grafting site.

Browse our complete range of PTFE dental membranes and other surgical membranes and get the ideal solutions, no matter the surgery that you have planned.