Patent ID: 6238214
Filing Date: 2001-05-29
Classification: A61C,Y10S

Abstract:
A method of growing bone in order to increase the volume of the bony ridge of the maxilla or mandible by creating a protected and supported space between the underside of the gum tissue and the jaw bone which is protected from outside chewing forces, muscular or tissue pressure, or any other premature loading by utilizing a guided-tissue regeneration plate support and fixation system, the method comprising:A) fixing a support medium to the jaw bone, the support medium being configured to receive and support a guided-tissue regeneration plate;B) positioning the guided-tissue regeneration plate next to the jaw bone in a tent-like manner to create a protected space by affixing the guided-tissue regeneration plate to the support medium, wherein the guided-tissue regeneration plate is pliable and moldable, but keeps its shape after being molded, the guided-tissue regeneration plate being fabricated from a bio-compatible material; andC) waiting for bone to grow in the resulting protected space; the improvement in which:D) the guided-tissue regeneration plate comprises first and second integrated components including:1) a first component comprising a support plate having a peripheral region and a generally open central portion extending through the support plate and having a diameter that extends over the majority of a length and/or width of the support plate; and2) a fine mesh screen positioned over the central portion of the support plate and fixed to the peripheral region thereof.