Pre-Prosthetic Surgery
What is pre-prosthetic surgery?
Pre-prosthetic surgery is the preparation of your mouth prior to fabrication of a removable prosthesis to ensure the highest degree of comfort and functionality. Removable prosthetic devices, such as partial or complete dentures, rest on the ridge of the upper and lower jaw bones. It is particularly important for the underlying gums and bone to be the proper size and shape. Pre-prosthetic surgery involves smoothing and reshaping the bone and gums to create an ideal foundation for comfortable and retentive dentures.
Why do I need pre-prosthetic surgery?
In the months following tooth extraction, the surrounding bone undergoes a series of changes, called remodeling. The remodeling process can result in uneven and sometimes sharp bone. Additionally, some people are born with abnormalities in the shape of their jaw bones (tori or exostoses). Patients may not even be aware of these bony abnormalities until they need dentures. Dentures that rest on sharp and uneven bone will result in severe discomfort and poor retention.
What does pre-prosthetic surgery involve?
One or more of the following procedures may be necessary to adequately prepare your mouth for a denture:
Bone smoothing and reshaping
Removal of excess bone
Reduction of bone ridge
Removal of excess gum tissue
Exposure of impacted teeth
Your surgeon will review your individual needs with you during your consultation appointment.
What anesthesia options are available for my implant surgery?
For patient comfort we offer three anesthesia options to our patients undergoing pre-prosthetic surgery: local anesthesia, nitrous oxide sedation, and general anesthesia. Anesthesia options will be discussed with you during your consultation visit. All our services are provided in an environment of optimum safety that utilizes modern monitoring equipment and staff who are experienced in anesthesia techniques. More information about anesthesia options can be found on our Anesthesia Page.