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When preparing for dentures, the shape and condition of your jawbone are important.
Alveoloplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reshape and smooth the alveolar bone, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for dentures.
This procedure is often performed by an oral surgeon in conjunction with tooth extractions to address jawbone ridge irregularities. In some cases, it may be a stand-alone procedure if bone reshaping is needed after tooth loss to improve future dental treatments.
In this blog, we explore how the alveoloplasty procedure improves denture stability and comfort while contributing to long-term oral health and proper healing.
Table of Contents
- Why Proper Jawbone Contouring Matters for Traditional Dentures
- How Alveoloplasty Improves Denture Comfort
- Is Alveoloplasty Right for You?
- Schedule a Consultation in Tempe, AZ
- FAQs About Alveoloplasty and Traditional Dentures
Alveoloplasty is necessary for full or partial dentures because it smooths out uneven bone and sharp edges in the bony ridge, creating a stable, contoured foundation for a comfortable and secure fit. Without this procedure, dentures can cause gum tissue irritation, painful sore spots, and constant slipping, making eating and speaking difficult. This procedure may also be recommended if you are preparing for dental implants or implant-supported dentures.
Why Proper Jawbone Contouring Matters for Traditional Dentures
If the jaw bone is uneven or has sharp protrusions (bone spicules), complete dentures or partial dentures may feel uncomfortable and unstable. Without a smooth foundation, common problems include:
- Denture slipping or poor retention
- Sores and gum tissue irritation due to pressure on sharp bone areas
- Difficulty chewing or speaking properly
Alveoloplasty addresses these concerns by providing a contoured ridge, promoting stability, and reducing long-term discomfort.
How Alveoloplasty Improves Denture Comfort
Traditional dentures suction to the jawbone. Uneven ridges, jawbone ridge irregularities, and excess bone can make it difficult for dentures to stay in place, leading to frequent adjustments and discomfort.
Alveoloplasty smooths out the alveolar ridge so that there is optimal contact between the dentures and soft tissues, improving their hold.
Faster Healing and Improved Functionality for Everyday Activities
Alveoloplasty optimizes the healing process and supports better long-term functionality.
- Faster healing process: Removes sharp bone edges and smooths the bony ridge, allowing the gum tissue to heal properly.
- Improve chewing and speaking: A properly contoured jawbone allows dentures to fit snugly, improving chewing efficiency and speech clarity. This makes it easier to enjoy meals and converse without discomfort or embarrassment.
- Stable foundation for long-term use: Ensures that dentures fit properly from the beginning, minimizing the need for frequent adjustments.
Is Alveoloplasty Right for You?
If you have experienced issues with poorly fitting dentures or are preparing for dentures or dental implants, you may benefit from this dental procedure.
Your oral surgeon will assess your jawbone structure using imaging tools to check for uneven bone or excess bone to determine if this procedure is right for you.
Schedule a Consultation in Tempe, AZ
Alveoloplasty addresses jawbone ridge irregularities and ensures dentures fit better, last longer, and feel more comfortable.
To book an appointment at our oral surgery office in Tempe, AZ, call (480) 830-5866 or visit us at 7350 S. McClintock Dr., Suite 101, Tempe, AZ.
📍Other Locations
- Mesa: 6755 E. Superstition Springs Blvd. Suite 103 Mesa, AZ
- North Mesa: 6808 E Brown Rd Mesa, AZ
- Queen Creek (South Gilbert): 18610 E. Rittenhouse Rd., Ste. 105 Queen Creek, AZ
- Show Low: 1941 S White Mountain Rd Show Low, AZ
- Tempe: 7350 S. McClintock Dr., Suite 101, Tempe, AZ
FAQs About Alveoloplasty and Traditional Dentures
No, it actually improves the outcome. In most cases, the procedure can be done at the time of tooth extractions, reducing the need for future adjustments. Alveoloplasty in conjunction with tooth extractions can streamline the tooth replacement process.
Alveoloplasty is performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some mild discomfort and swelling may occur post-surgery, but this is manageable with over-the-counter analgesics or prescription pain medication.
Healing time typically takes about 4-6 weeks. You will see your surgeon for follow up appointments to assess your healing and readiness for the final prosthetic.
Yes, by creating a smooth bone surface, alveoloplasty helps prevent complications of dentures, including slipping, gum irritation, and sore spots, promoting a favorable outcome and long-term stability of dentures.
Yes, alveoloplasty is a common procedure performed in conjunction with tooth extractions or as a stand-alone procedure to prepare the jaw for dental treatments like dentures or implants. It is especially beneficial when the tooth sockets leave behind uneven ridges after extractions.
