Pre-Prosthetic Surgery

Dentures should fit securely and feel comfortable in your mouth. Sometimes, the shape of the bone or tissue around the gums makes it impossible for a partial plate or full denture to fit comfortably. Especially after tooth loss, the bone around the empty tooth sockets can change shape or become uneven. Even after multiple fittings, full or partial dentures can slip or cause sores and discomfort for some patients. 

The oral surgeons at Arizona Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons in Tucson, AZ, and Oro Valley, AZ, perform pre-prosthetic surgery in our offices to improve denture fit. Dr. Wood, Dr. Coles, Dr. Saghafi, and Dr. Holbrook will create a custom fit for your dentures so they feel comfortable and you get the most out of your tooth replacement. Contact our office today if you wear dentures and experience discomfort, or if you are ready for new professionally fitting dentures. 

What Is Pre-Prosthetic Surgery? 

Pre-prosthetic surgery refers to any procedure that prepares your mouth for a more secure and comfortable-fitting prosthesis. Most pre-prosthetic procedures are fairly minor, with the goal of smoothing out or reshaping the bone or soft tissue beneath the denture. Once your mouth has fully healed after undergoing pre-prosthetic surgery, you will be ready to wear your denture. 

Do I Need Pre-Prosthetic Surgery? 

Not everyone needs to have pre-prosthetic surgery. It all depends on the shape of your gums and overall mouth. Like with any other physical feature, genetics often play a large role in the overall shape of your mouth and palate. The number of missing teeth and length of time that the teeth have been missing can also affect the shape of the jaws and gum line.

If you wear dentures and often experience oral sores, slipping prostheses, or general discomfort when wearing them, pre-prosthetic surgery may be right for you. Contact Arizona Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons to explore your oral surgery options and to see how our experts can create a comfortable, secure fit for your dentures. 

Types of Pre-Prosthetic Surgery

Each patient is different, and the shape of your jaw and dental arch will determine the right type of procedure. One or more of the following techniques may be needed when preparing for a denture or prostheses:

• Removal of excess gum or soft tissue
• Smoothing or reshaping of the jaw bone
• Reduction of the alveolar ridge
• Restoring lost bone with bone grafting
• Exposing impacted teeth 
• Tooth extraction

These and other procedures may help you achieve a comfortable denture fit. When you come to our office, you will meet with one of our oral surgeons to evaluate your needs and create a custom treatment plan. We will take 3D scans of your mouth and discuss your options for anesthesia prior to performing any type of surgical procedure. Local anesthesia is often all that is needed for pre-prosthetic surgery, which will numb only the surgical area. 

If your dentures do not fit properly or comfortably, pre-prosthetic surgery can help. Contact one of our offices to learn more about pre-prosthetic surgery or schedule an appointment today.