Pre-Prosthetic Surgery

Ensure Your Dentures Fit Properly and Comfortably

Patients may need to utilize a partial or complete denture as a replacement for missing teeth. When preparing to receive any removable prosthetic, the doctor must first ensure that the mouth is fully prepared to support the prosthesis comfortably to avoid any discomfort or afflictions that may arise from an improper fit.

For some patients, the shape of the mouth or the ridge may not be ideal for receiving the prosthesis. In these cases, a surgical procedure is necessary to ensure proper fit and maximum comfort. Dr. Lieblick and Dr. Rehrer perform pre-prosthetic surgery at all of the Beacon Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons offices located in Gresham, The Dalles, and Milwaukie, OR, and Camas, WA.

Why Should I Get Pre-Prosthetic Surgery?

Many patients ask, “Why doesn’t my mouth support the prosthesis as is?” Just as genetics provide varying physical attributes such as hair color, height, and face shape, the jaw shape and gum tissue can be quite varied. Sometimes, the development of the jaw bone is not shaped to accommodate tooth replacements comfortably. This can make daily activities like chewing your food difficult or painful. Because the denture rests on the gum tissue overlying the bone ridge, it is critical to ensure that the mouth maintains the proper shape and size necessary for the dentures to fit properly. With pre-prosthetic surgery, our board-certified oral surgeons Dr. Lieblick and Dr. Rehrer can reshape your mouth to make your prosthesis fit comfortably and feel natural.

Pre-Prosthetic Surgery Procedure

Prior to any surgical appointment, you will meet with Dr. Lieblick or Dr. Rehrer for a consultation. We may take 3D scans of your face and mouth to get a clear digital image of your bone structure. Our oral surgery practice offers a variety of anesthesia and sedation needs to ensure your comfort during any type of procedure.

There are several methods to pre-prosthetic surgery that might be performed to prepare your mouth for a denture. The type that you receive will depend on your individual needs, and your oral surgeon will discuss this with you during the first visit. 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

Long-Term Alternative to Dentures

If you are missing many or all of your teeth, you may be a candidate for full-arch restoration. This is a life-changing procedure that involves using dental implants to support a permanent denture. The prosthesis is custom-made to your smile and will remain in your mouth at all times. Patients who undergo this procedure remark on their enhanced quality of life, as they are able to eat and smile with total confidence. To learn more about dental implants or to see if you qualify for full-arch restoration, please contact Beacon Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons for an appointment.