Pre-Prosthetic Surgery
Serving KIRKLAND, SEATTLE, REDMOND & MONROE
Dentures must fit comfortably and securely to function properly. While fitting a denture is often possible without invasive procedures, there are times when pre-prosthetic surgery is needed. This surgery, which is primarily aimed at enhancing the comfort and stability of your dentures, can be a beneficial solution when your jawbone cannot support a denture securely. Minor oral surgery can correct imperfections in the jawbone to better accommodate a denture for a comfortable, stable fit.
Why Might I Need Pre-Prosthetic Surgery?
Dentures sit on the bony ridge of your jaw. If this ridge is not the right size or shape or has sharp edges due to an extracted tooth, your denture will not be comfortable. It may cause a sore spot where it rubs against the gums, shifts out of place, or does not have enough stability for proper speech and chewing. Pre-prosthetic surgery can smooth and reshape the bony ridge or remove excess bone if needed.
If you have been advised that pre-prosthetic surgery will improve the fit and performance of your dentures, your oral surgeon may perform one or more of the following procedures:
- Smoothing and reshaping the bone
- Removing excess bone
- Reducing the height of the bony ridge
- Exposing impacted teeth
- Removing excess gum tissue
Pre-Prosthetic Surgery Process
Your surgeon at 47 North Oral Surgery will coordinate with your dentist or prosthodontist, arranging to perform the surgery approximately six weeks before your dentist designs your new dentures. This gives your mouth time to heal and for any swelling to go down before any impressions of your mouth are taken.
Our team of experienced surgeons performs pre-prosthetic surgery in the office. The time required depends on the amount of bone involved and the complexity of the procedure. We numb the area and typically provide sedation for your comfort during surgery. Most patients do not remember any details of their pre-prosthetic surgery.
After the surgery, you will recover at home, refraining from strenuous activities for a few days. A soft diet protects the surgical site and gives the area time to heal. We will provide detailed post-surgery instructions, including information about managing pain, swelling, and potential complications, to minimize discomfort and ensure healing. Your surgeon will also advise you on when you can resume your normal diet and activities.
Pre-Prosthetic Surgery FAQ
How long does it take to heal from denture pre-prosthetic surgery?
For most patients, pain and swelling disappear within 2-7 days. Impressions can be taken within six weeks to create your new dentures. However, if extensive bone was removed or manipulated, recovery may take longer (up to three months).
How long after my surgery will I get my dentures?
For a relatively simple procedure, you can expect to get fitted for your new dentures six weeks after surgery. If significant bone manipulation or removal is needed, you may need to wait longer.
When might I need pre-prosthetic surgery?
The longer your teeth have been missing, the more likely you will need pre-prosthetic surgery to build up the bony ridge to support your new denture properly. On the other hand, if you are having one or more teeth extracted before getting your denture, surgery may be needed to smooth down any rough edges.
If your dentist has recommended pre-prosthetic surgery to prepare your jawbone for dentures, please get in touch with our office to schedule a consultation to explore your pre-prosthetic surgery options. During this consultation, we can discuss the cost of the procedure and any potential insurance coverage or financing options.