Introduction to Alveoloplasties

We at the Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania provide extractions to people with all sorts of medical histories. Implant-supported dentures, fixed bridges, and single-crown implants can all help people regain their biting power and self-confidence. But in order to receive prosthetic teeth, some people will need to undergo a minor surgery called an alveoloplasty.

An alveoloplasty is the smoothing of the jawbone ridge. It is done when the ridge has protuberances or is otherwise shaped in a way that would make it difficult to slip a denture over. Sometimes, alveoloplasties are done when a tooth is extracted in anticipation of providing a patient with a denture later, but a person’s jawbones may naturally reshape somewhat if several years pass between extraction and replacement. Alveoloplasties are frequently done when multiple teeth are extracted at once in preparation for full-mouth restorations.

To perform an alveoloplasty, our surgeons may need to make an incision. The smoothing is done with a file, drill, or dental pliers while the patient is anesthetized, and the surgical site is kept well-irrigated. When it is over, the gums will be sutured shut. Incisions may not be necessary when the alveoloplasty is done in the same procedure as an extraction. Performing one makes complications less likely while the gums heal. A patient will usually be ready to receive dentures four to six weeks later.

The Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania operate in Philadelphia, Folsom, and Clifton Heights. Visit Oral Surgery PA.