Pre-Prosthetic Surgery

Pre-prosthetic surgery refers to a set of procedures performed to modify the gums, jawbone, and other oral structures to prepare them for the placement of a prosthetic restoration. This surgery may be required when the jawbone or gum tissues are not in an ideal condition to support the prosthesis, whether due to bone loss, excess bone, or other anatomical issues. The goal is to create a stable, functional environment for prostheses, ensuring comfort, durability, and an aesthetic appearance. 

Why Is Pre-Prosthetic Surgery Necessary? 

Certain conditions in the mouth can complicate the fitting and function of dental restorations, and pre-prosthetic surgery addresses these issues to prevent complications. Common problems that may require pre-prosthetic surgery include:

• Bone Resorption: After tooth loss, the bone that once supported the teeth begins to shrink or resorb. This loss of bone volume may prevent successful implant placement or the stable fitting of dentures.
• Bone Overgrowth: Sometimes, there is excess bone in certain areas of the jaw, which can obstruct the fitting of prostheses like dentures.
• Gum Tissue Irregularities: Gum tissue may be uneven or have excessive folds, which can cause discomfort or make it difficult for dentures to sit properly.
• Tori: Bony growths, or tori, in the mouth, can interfere with the fitting of dentures or implants and may need to be surgically removed. Contact us to learn more.

Common Pre-Prosthetic Procedures in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS

Pre-prosthetic surgery encompasses a variety of procedures tailored to the unique needs of each patient. The following are some of the most common procedures performed by Dr. Clay Thames and Dr. Darren Alexander to ensure a proper foundation for prostheses: 

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is often necessary when there has been significant bone loss, particularly after tooth extraction.  This procedure involves adding bone material to the jaw to rebuild and restore its structure. Bone grafting provides the necessary volume and density to support dental implants, creating a more stable foundation for the prosthesis. There are different types of bone grafts, including:

• Autografts: Bone taken from another area of your body.
• Allografts: Bone from a donor or cadaver.
• Xenografts: Bone from animals (often cows).
• Synthetic Grafts: Artificial bone-like material that stimulates natural bone growth.

Bone grafting may be performed on the upper or lower jaw, depending on where the deficiency is located.

Ridge Augmentation

Ridge augmentation is used when there is significant bone loss along the jaw ridge, which is the area that supports the teeth and dentures. If the bone has deteriorated due to tooth loss or disease, ridge augmentation helps restore the ridge to a more natural contour. This procedure is often performed after a tooth extraction to prevent further bone loss and to improve the fitting of dentures or implants.

Socket Preservation

After a tooth is extracted, the surrounding bone may begin to deteriorate, leading to the loss of height and width of the socket. Socket preservation involves placing a bone graft into the socket immediately following extraction to prevent bone resorption. This procedure helps maintain the shape of the socket and prepares it for future implants or other prosthetic devices.

Gum Reshaping

In some cases, the gum tissue may need to be reshaped or contoured to provide a better fit for dentures or implants. Gum reshaping involves removing excess gum tissue or smoothing out irregularities in the gum line. This procedure ensures that the dentures or implants sit properly and comfortably.

Tori Removal

Tori are abnormal bone growths that can develop in the roof of the mouth (palatal tori) or along the lower jaw (mandibular tori). These growths can interfere with the fitting of dentures or other restorations, and they may cause discomfort. Tori removal is a common pre-prosthetic procedure that involves the surgical removal of these bony growths to ensure that the prosthesis fits well and does not cause irritation.

Sinus Lift

For patients who need dental implants in the upper jaw but have insufficient bone volume, a sinus lift may be necessary. This procedure involves lifting the sinus membrane and placing a bone graft in the area beneath the sinus cavity to create more bone for implant placement. A sinus lift is typically required for patients who have lost teeth in the upper back region of the mouth.

The Pre-Prosthetic Surgery Procedure in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS

The process for pre-prosthetic surgery typically follows these steps:

Step 1: Initial Consultation

The first step in pre-prosthetic surgery is a consultation with our oral surgeons in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS. During this visit, the oral surgeon will perform a thorough examination, review your medical history, and discuss your goals for prosthetic restoration. X-rays or 3D imaging may be taken to assess the condition of the jawbone, gums, and other oral structures. 

Step 2: Treatment Planning

Based on the results of the examination and imaging, the oral surgeon will develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan will outline the necessary pre-prosthetic procedures, including bone grafting, gum reshaping, or tori removal, as well as the estimated timeline for each step of the process.

Step 3: Surgical Procedure

Pre-prosthetic surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, with sedation options available for added comfort. The procedure itself can range from a simple gum reshaping to more complex bone grafting or ridge augmentation. The surgeon will make incisions in the gum tissue to access the underlying bone or soft tissue, performing the necessary adjustments or grafting.

Step 4: Recovery and Aftercare

After the procedure, patients will need time to heal. The recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the surgery, but most patients can expect a healing period of several weeks to months. Post-operative care instructions will be provided to manage pain and swelling and ensure proper healing. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor progress and ensure that the jaw is ready for the placement of dental prostheses. 

The Benefits of Pre-Prosthetic Surgery 

Pre-prosthetic surgery offers several key benefits that contribute to the success of prosthetic restorations:

• Improved Fit and Comfort: By addressing issues with the jawbone, gums, and other oral structures, pre-prosthetic surgery ensures that the prosthesis will fit securely and comfortably.
• Enhanced Function: Proper preparation of the mouth and jaw ensures that the prosthesis will function effectively, allowing for improved chewing, speaking, and overall oral health.
• Aesthetic Results: Pre-prosthetic surgery helps restore the natural contours of the jaw and gums, providing a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
• Long-Term Durability: Preparing the mouth properly for prostheses ensures that the restoration will last longer and function more effectively over time.

Conclusion

Pre-prosthetic surgery is an essential component of the dental restoration process, ensuring that the foundation is properly prepared for the placement of dentures, implants, or bridges. At The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Center, P.A., in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS, Dr. Clay Thames and Dr. Darren Alexander provide expert care in pre-prosthetic surgery, helping patients achieve the best possible outcomes with their dental prostheses. With personalized treatment plans and advanced surgical techniques, we ensure that each patient is prepared for successful, long-lasting restorations.

Experience exceptional oral surgery care at The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Center, P.A. Visit us at our Hattiesburg office, located at 6284 US Highway 98, Hattiesburg, MS 39402, or our Laurel office at 325 South 13th Avenue, Laurel, MS 39440. You can also call our Hattiesburg office at (601) 271-2356 or our Laurel office at (601) 425-2356. From dental implants to wisdom teeth removal, our experienced team is ready to restore your smile — schedule your appointment today!