Pre-Prosthetic Surgery

It is common for patients to choose a partial or complete denture to replace a missing tooth or teeth. When preparing to receive any removable prosthesis, the doctor must first make sure that the mouth can support the prosthesis comfortably to avoid any discomfort or difficulties that may arise from an improper fit. For some patients, the shape of the mouth or the ridge may not be optimal to receive the prosthesis; in such cases, a surgical procedure is necessary to ensure proper fit and maximum comfort.

Many patients ask, “Why doesn’t my mouth support the prosthesis as is?” Just as our genes give us different physical attributes, such as hair color, height, and face shape, we are given different shaped jaws and gum tissue growth as well. Sometimes, our jaw bone is not aptly shaped to accommodate tooth replacements comfortably or in a stable manner. This can cause routine activities, such as chewing your food, to be extremely difficult or even painful. Because the denture rests on the bone ridge, it is critical to ensure that the mouth maintains the proper shape and size necessary for the dentures to fit correctly. With pre-prosthetic surgery, Dr. Simonton can reshape your mouth to make your dentures feel as though you still have your natural teeth.

There are several procedures that might be performed when preparing your mouth for a denture. The procedure you receive will depend on your mouth’s individual needs. Common pre-prosthetic procedures include

• Smoothing or reshaping of the jaw bone
• Removal of excess gum tissue or bone
• Reduction in the size of the alveolar ridge
• Exposure of impacted teeth

At Gainesville Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we want to make sure that you are well informed and as comfortable as possible leading up to your procedure. Our doctor, as well as our skilled surgical and office staff, will fully discuss treatment options with you and present the best choices for your specific tooth replacement needs. Many patients elect to receive long-term solutions, such as dental implants, to restore the best function and aesthetics possible to their mouths.

Where can I get pre-prosthetic surgery near Gainesville, GA?

Oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Fred Simonton, is a specialist in providing solutions for the treatment of complex oral and dental health problems, including the preparation of the mouth for a denture or the All-on-4^® Treatment Concept with pre-prosthetic surgery. With two office locations in Gainesville and Watkinsville, GA, Dr. Simonton and his staff serve a wide region, including cities in Georgia as well as cities in South Carolina and North Carolina.