What is the primary role of Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR)?

The primary role of Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR) is to prevent apical migration of junctional epithelium. In periodontal therapy, GTR uses barrier membranes to direct the regeneration of periodontal tissues. This process creates a space that allows for the preferential growth of connective tissue and bone over the epithelial tissue, which tends to grow faster. By preventing the junctional epithelium from migrating too apically, GTR facilitates the healing and regrowth of periodontal structures, ultimately helping to restore a healthy attachment of the periodontal ligament to the tooth root.

Other choices discuss important aspects of tissue regeneration and healing, but they do not encapsulate the core function of GTR as effectively. For instance, while the growth of connective tissue is involved in the process, it is the prevention of the junctional epithelium's downward movement that specifically highlights the purpose of the technique. Enhancing bone graft integration and reducing plaque accumulation are also important considerations in periodontal therapy but are not the primary goal of GTR itself.