Pre-Prosthetic Surgery

Dentures are a popular choice for patients who need to replace an entire or partial arch of teeth but may not be candidates for dental implants. Unfortunately, the shape of some people’s mouths cannot accommodate dentures without causing pain or discomfort. Pre-prosthetic surgery reshapes the bone and tissues in the mouth to create a secure, functional, and comfortable fit for a denture.

By undergoing pre-prosthetic surgery prior to receiving your prosthesis, you achieve maximum comfort while wearing your dentures. If you have problems finding the right denture fit, even after multiple fittings, pre-prosthetic surgery may be right for you. Contact Oral Surgery Group in New Brunswick, East Brunswick, and Middlesex, NJ. Our experienced oral surgeons, Dr. Engel, Dr. Stern, Dr. Simos, Dr. Stern, Dr. Tanchyk, and Dr. Prabhu, will make the most out of your dentures.

Benefits of Pre-Prosthetic Surgery for Dentures

In addition to achieving maximum comfort with your dentures, pre-prosthetic surgery offers several other benefits:

• Dramatically improve the overall function and feel of your dentures
• Great for full or partial dentures
• Patients with gum recession or jaw both atrophy can still be candidates
• Reduce sores caused by ill-fitting dentures
• Improve the aesthetics of your smile

Do I Need Pre-Prosthetic Surgery?

Many patients wonder why they need pre-prosthetic surgery when other people have no problem with their dentures. The shape of your mouth is largely affected by genetics, much like face shape, eye color, and other features. Dental conditions can also affect the shape of your mouth. Missing teeth often leave portions of bone that are uneven or stick out more than the rest of the bony ridge. Surgically smoothing out these areas can make it possible for a denture to fit securely and comfortably.

Types of Pre-Prosthetic Surgery

Several minor procedures fall into the category of pre-prosthetic surgery. The type of treatment you need will largely depend on your particular condition. Some patients require a combination of multiple procedures. The most common pre-prosthetic procedures include:

• Bone smoothing or reshaping
• Removing excess bone or gum tissue
• Extraction of teeth to make space for a denture
• Reduction of the bony ridge

Prior to treatment, you will meet with one of our oral surgeons during a consultation visit. We will take 3D scans of your mouth and face to determine the state of your bone and soft tissues. You have the option of several types of anesthesia or sedation for treatment, and we will help select the right method for your needs.

Our oral surgeons are happy to work with you and your dentist or prosthodontist to ensure your dentures fit securely and comfortably. If you plan on receiving dentures, or already have dentures and desire a more comfortable fit, contact one of our offices in New Brunswick, NJ, East Brunswick, or Middlesex, NJ.