Pre-Prosthetic Surgery in Irvine, CA

Preparing Your Mouth for a Comfortable & Secure Denture Fit

For patients who require full or partial dentures, the shape of the jawbone and gum tissue plays a crucial role in ensuring a comfortable, stable fit. In some cases, minor oral surgery may be needed to prepare the mouth for prosthetic placement. Pre-prosthetic surgery improves the fit and function of dentures by reshaping the bone and soft tissue, ensuring a secure and comfortable foundation for long-term wear.

At Honest Oral Surgeon in Irvine, CA, our board-certified oral surgeons, Dr. Eric Kim and Dr. Blair Ota, specialize in pre-prosthetic procedures to optimize jawbone and gum tissue for denture placement. Whether you need bone smoothing, excess tissue removal, or ridge reduction, we ensure your dentures fit comfortably and securely.

What is Pre-Prosthetic Surgery?

Pre-prosthetic surgery is a minor oral surgical procedure performed before placing dentures or other prosthetic appliances. Since dentures sit directly on the bone ridge, an uneven or irregular jawbone can lead to discomfort, poor fit, and irritation.

This procedure reshapes the bone and soft tissue to create a stable foundation, allowing dentures to sit properly and preventing slippage or discomfort.

Who Needs Pre-Prosthetic Surgery?

You may benefit from pre-prosthetic surgery if you:

Experience discomfort from ill-fitting dentures.
Have sharp, uneven, or excess bone after tooth extractions.
Need bone reshaping to ensure a secure denture fit.
Have excess gum tissue that interferes with denture placement.
Require jaw ridge modification to improve prosthetic stability.

Common Pre-Prosthetic Surgical Procedures

1. Bone Smoothing & Reshaping

After a tooth extraction, the underlying bone may develop sharp edges or irregularities. Smoothing and reshaping the bone helps dentures fit securely and comfortably.

2. Removal of Excess Bone

Some patients have overgrown bone structures (exostoses or tori) that interfere with denture placement. These bony overgrowths are carefully removed to ensure a smooth denture fit.

3. Bone Ridge Reduction

If the jawbone ridge is too prominent or uneven, it may cause denture instability. Ridge reduction surgery reshapes the bone structure to provide a level surface for dentures to rest on.

4. Removal of Excess Gum Tissue

Over time, ill-fitting dentures can cause excess soft tissue growth (fibrous ridges) that affect prosthetic fit. Excess gum tissue is removed to create a stable, irritation-free surface.

5. Exposure of Impacted Teeth

If impacted teeth are preventing proper denture placement, they may need to be exposed or extracted. This ensures smooth denture alignment.

During your consultation, we will assess your specific needs and determine which procedures are necessary for optimal prosthetic fit.

The Pre-Prosthetic Surgery Process: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Consultation & Digital Imaging

We perform a detailed oral exam and use 3D imaging to assess bone structure and tissue health.
We develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific jawbone and gum tissue needs.

Step 2: Surgical Procedure

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation for comfort.
Any necessary bone reshaping, ridge reduction, or tissue removal is completed.
The site is sutured closed, and post-operative care instructions are provided.

Step 3: Healing & Denture Fitting

Initial healing takes about 1–2 weeks, with full recovery in a few months.
Once fully healed, your dentures or prosthetic devices can be properly fitted for long-term comfort.
We coordinate with your dentist or prosthodontist to ensure a seamless transition to dentures.

Benefits of Pre-Prosthetic Surgery

Ensures a comfortable denture fit – Eliminates pressure points and irritation.
Improves denture stability – Reduces slippage and movement.
Prevents long-term bone or gum irritation – Protects oral tissues from discomfort.
Allows for a better aesthetic outcome – Provides a natural-looking, well-fitted prosthesis.
Enhances oral function – Makes eating and speaking easier with dentures.

Why Choose Honest Oral Surgeon for Pre-Prosthetic Surgery?

At Honest Oral Surgeon, we are committed to providing exceptional care for patients needing oral surgery to improve denture fit.

Board-Certified Oral Surgeons – Dr. Eric Kim & Dr. Blair Ota specialize in pre-prosthetic procedures.
Advanced Digital Planning – We use 3D imaging for precise bone and soft tissue evaluation.
Comfort-First Approach – We offer IV sedation for pain-free procedures.
Collaborative Treatment Plans – We work closely with your dentist or prosthodontist for a seamless transition to dentures.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pre-Prosthetic Surgery

How long does it take to recover from pre-prosthetic surgery?

Most patients recover within 1–2 weeks, but complete healing may take a few months, depending on the extent of bone and tissue modification.

Is pre-prosthetic surgery painful?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation, ensuring minimal discomfort. After surgery, mild swelling or soreness can be managed with prescribed pain medication and proper aftercare.

Will I be able to wear my dentures immediately after surgery?

In most cases, patients must wait until healing is complete before receiving their final dentures. Temporary prosthetics may be provided in some cases.

What happens if I don’t get pre-prosthetic surgery before dentures?

Without proper preparation, dentures may not fit securely, leading to irritation, discomfort, and instability. Pre-prosthetic surgery ensures a comfortable and functional fit.

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