Dr. Felthousen’s practice has been focused on these procedures for over 15 years. He received the national award from the American College of Dentists for Most Outstanding Research in this field.

Traditionally, eliminating the gum pockets by trimming away the infected gum tissue and by re-contouring the uneven bone tissue treats gum disease. Although this is still an effective way of treating gum disease, new and more sophisticated procedures are used routinely today.

Guided Tissue Bone Regeneration "regenerates" the previously lost gum and bone tissue. Most techniques utilize membranes, which are inserted over the bone defects. Some of these membranes are bio-absorbable and some require removal. Other regenerative procedures involve the use of bioactive growth factors in combination with bone grafts.

Bone grafting is now considered to be an important factor in restoring previously lost bone support. Tooth loss often leads to a rapid and continued loss of jaw structure and facial support. The use of these procedures can restore lost support and function. Bone grafting is used routinely to prevent bone loss after tooth extractions and to prepare areas for future dental implants.