Pre-prosthetic surgery is performed to prepare the patient’s mouth for the placement of a dental prosthesis so that it will have the best fit and maximum comfort. A denture sits on a ridge of bone in the mouth, so it is very important that the bone is the proper shape and size. Our oral surgeons are highly trained in pre-prosthetic surgery techniques to ensure that our patients have a comfortable and stable fit for their dentures. We offer these procedures in the comfort of our surgical suite in Hiawatha, IA.
Why have pre-prosthetic surgery?
Sometimes patients find that their dentures do not feel comfortable, even after multiple fittings. In these cases, it may be that the alveolar ridge or jaw shape needs surgical correction. The alveolar ridge is the bone under our gums that holds our teeth in place. Genetics, tooth loss, and other factors can all affect the alveolar ridge. There may also be other correctable oral inconsistencies that are preventing a comfortable denture fit, denture functionality, and a natural-looking smile. Pre-prosthetic surgery can be life-changing in that it can truly make a big difference in your daily activities.
Types of Pre-Prosthetic Surgery
The shape of your jaw, alveolar ridge, and the type of prosthesis you have or will be receiving will affect what type of pre-prosthetic surgery procedure(s) you require. One or more of the following procedures may need to be performed to prepare your mouth for dentures or other prosthetic devices:
- Bone smoothing and/or reshaping
- Bone ridge reduction/alveolar ridge reduction
- Removal of excess bone/removal of tori (bony growths in the upper or lower jaws) or bony exostoses (benign bone growths)
- Bone or tissue grafting procedures
- Removal of excess soft (gum) tissue
- Exposure of impacted teeth
Pre-prosthetic procedures have very few risks and can usually be performed from the comfort of our Hiawatha, IA, practice. We will review your needs with you during your consultation appointment.
Pre-Prosthetic Surgery in Hiawatha, IA
If your dentures are uncomfortable or ill-fitting, or you are due to receive dentures and have been recommended for pre-prosthetic surgery, please give Dental Implant & Oral Surgery Specialists of Iowa a call. Our oral surgeons will be pleased to meet with you to discuss your case during a consultation. If you are investigating other options, such as dental implants or other tooth replacement options, we are happy to discuss these options with you as well at that time.