Alveoloplasty is a surgical procedure commonly performed by oral surgeons to smooth or reshape the jawbone.
The primary objective of this procedure is to improve the fit and function of dentures or other dental prostheses.
It is also used to correct any irregularities in the jawbone caused by tooth loss, trauma, or developmental issues.
Key Takeaway
Alveoloplasty is performed to smooth or reshape the jawbone. This procedure prepares the mouth for dental prosthetics like dentures and dental implants. It is usually done at the time of a tooth extraction and helps to prevent the formation of bone spicules.
What Is Alveoloplasty?
Alveoloplasty, also known as bone shaving, is a surgical procedure to reshape the bony ridge of the jaw (alveolar ridge).
This is often necessary after tooth extractions, especially when the bone is irregular, sharp, or uneven.In some cases, patients develop oral bone spicules—small, sharp bone fragments—that can cause discomfort if left untreated. Alveoloplasty helps remove these spicules and smooth the ridge for better oral health.
Understanding the Jaw Bone
The jaw bone, or alveolar ridge, is lined with sockets known as alveoli, where the teeth roots are anchored. When a tooth is removed, natural changes begin to occur in the jaw bone.
The socket where the tooth was extracted will fill with a blood clot to protect the underlying bone and nerve endings, initiating the healing process. Over time, the clot is replaced with granulation tissue, and eventually, new bone begins to form in the socket.
This process can lead to some reshaping of the bone, which may result in a less even ridge, affecting future dental procedures or prosthesis fitting. Additionally, if a tooth isn’t replaced, the bone will begin to resorb or shrink, which can lead to further changes in the jaw structure.
Why Is Alveoloplasty Necessary?
If you are considering dentures or dental implants and need to have one or several teeth extracted, an alveoloplasty will be necessary.
This procedure improves the fit and stability of dentures, dental implants or other dental prostheses. A smooth alveolar ridge allows for a more secure and comfortable fit, preventing shifting or slipping of the prosthesis.
If you have irregularities in your alveolar ridge, your dentures will rub against these areas, leading to mouth sores, discomfort, and difficulty eating and speaking.
Alveoloplasty is also necessary for proper healing after tooth extractions. When a tooth is removed from the tooth socket, it can leave behind sharp or uneven bone pieces called bone spicules.
Bone spicules can cause pain or discomfort, interfere with tissue healing, and even damage nearby teeth. Performing an alveoloplasty at the time of extraction prevents these issues and promotes proper healing.
Bone Spicules
Bone spicules are common after tooth extractions and can develop in both the upper and lower jaw. These tiny bone fragments can be sharp, jagged, and cause discomfort or pain when they poke into soft tissue like the gums or cheeks.
Sometimes they will work their way out on their own, but if not, an alveoloplasty may be necessary to remove them.
When is an Alveoloplasty Performed?
Alveoloplasty is typically performed at the time of tooth extraction. This is the most efficient and effective way to smooth or reshape the bone.
However, if you have had teeth removed in the past and are now getting dentures of other dental prostheses, you may require an alveoloplasty before the prosthesis can be fitted correctly.
The Alveoloplasty Procedure
If an alveoloplasty is performed at the same time as a tooth extraction, the procedure will go as follows:
- The area around the tooth will be numbed with local anesthetic
- The tooth is removed using a gentle rocking motion to preserve as much bone as possible.
- Once the tooth is removed, an incision will be made in the gum tissue to expose the bone.
- The area is irrigated and cleaned to remove any debris or bacteria.
- Stitches are placed, and gauze may be used to help control bleeding.
If you are having an alveoloplasty after previous extractions, your oral surgeon will perform the procedure in a similar manner but without removing a tooth.
Instead, they will make incisions in the gum tissue to access the bone underneath and reshape it as needed.
Recovery and Aftercare
After an alveoloplasty, you can expect some discomfort, swelling and bruising in the area.
Your oral surgeon will provide specific aftercare instructions, which may include:
- Take pain medication as prescribed
- Use ice packs to reduce swelling
- Rinse with warm salt water to promote healing
- Eat soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow
It’s essential to follow the post-op instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and avoid any complications.
Choose Legacy Surgery for Alveoloplasty in Harrisonburg and Staunton, VA
Alveoloplasty is a common surgical procedure that can significantly improve the fit and comfort of your dentures or dental implants.
Our experienced oral surgeon, Dr. Jeffery Kesecker, DDS, performs alveoloplasty in our Harrisonburg and Staunton, VA offices.
We are committed to providing excellent results and helping our patients achieve optimal oral health.
To book an appointment at our oral surgery office in Harrisonburg, VA, call (540) 437-1230. For our oral surgery office in Staunton, VA, call (540) 213-8750.
FAQs About Alveoloplasty
Do they put you to sleep for alveoloplasty?
Alveoloplasty is typically performed under local anesthetic. If you are nervous about dental procedures, we offer various sedation options such as nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation and IV sedation.
What are the disadvantages of alveoloplasty?
The main disadvantage of alveoloplasty is the risk of complications, such as infection or excessive bleeding. However, these risks are minimal when the procedure is performed by an experienced oral surgeon.
Does alveoloplasty require stitches?
Yes, stitches are necessary for proper healing and to control bleeding. Your oral surgeon will use dissolvable stitches that will disappear on their own.
How long does an alveoloplasty take?
The length of the procedure depends on the number of teeth being extracted and the complexity of bone shaping required. On average, it takes about one hour.
How is bone removed during alveoloplasty?
Bone contouring during alveoloplasty is performed using specialized surgical instruments, such as drills or bone files.