What Is Pre-Prosthetic Surgery?
Before a denture or other dental prosthetic can be placed, the shape and condition of the underlying bone and gum tissue need to be right. Not only is a properly fit prosthetic more comfortable, but it can also affect how well the restoration functions, how long it lasts, and whether it stays securely in place over time. Pre-prosthetic surgery is the process of preparing the mouth so that a denture or restoration can sit properly, feel comfortable, and perform as intended. Dr. Justin L. Drab and our team at The Oral Surgery Center often perform pre-prosthetic surgery when natural teeth have been removed or lost, which may cause the jawbone and gum tissue to recede over time. Our goal is to smooth, reshape, and reinforce the bone and soft tissue so that your final oral prosthetic has a stable and supportive foundation. If you're preparing to have a dental implant, denture, or another kind of restoration placed, schedule a consultation and exam at The Oral Surgery Center in Greensboro, NC to take the first step toward strengthening your smile.
How Does Pre-Prosthetic Dental Surgery Work?
Pre-prosthetic surgery is typically performed in our oral surgery center under local anesthesia, with general anesthesia and IV sedation available for patients who prefer a more relaxed experience. The procedure begins with a careful evaluation of the area and 3D dental imaging to assess the shape and condition of the jawbone.
A common type of pre-prosthetic surgery we perform at The Oral Surgery Center is alveoloplasty, a procedure that reshapes the ridge of the jaw to create a flatter, more supportive surface for a denture. We may also remove small bone spurs, smooth sharp or uneven areas, or correct undercuts that could cause pressure points or instability. If excess gum tissue is interfering with the fit, we can reduce or reposition it for improved comfort. In some cases, we may recommend minor bone grafting to strengthen the area before placing a prosthetic or implant. These adjustments are often subtle but play a critical role in how well your restoration fits, feels, and functions over time.
What Are the Benefits of Pre-Prosthetic Surgery?
Pre-prosthetic surgery is often an important step in helping your denture or restoration fit comfortably, stay secure, and feel natural in everyday use. The benefits include:
- Creates a stable, comfortable base for dentures or prosthetics
- Improves fit and function of restorations by reshaping bone or tissue
- Reduces irritation, sore spots, or movement under the denture
- Helps prevent long-term complications from pressure or instability
- Allows for better results with implant-supported dentures
- Supports long-term oral comfort and daily function
- Increases confidence in the fit and performance of your restoration
The Oral Surgery Center Reviews
My second child to have wisdom teeth removal here. So fast and efficient… I refer them to all our friends. We love Dr. Drab.
The staff is so caring and made sure I was comfortable throughout the whole procedure. I have quite the extensive dental history but I wasn’t nervous at all.
Staff was very kind and made us feel very at ease. My daughter had a hard time just because of the meds, but the staff was very patient and caring.
Outstanding and pain-free!
Dr. Drab, accompanying nurses, and all other employees associated with the Oral Surgery Center, were friendly, caring, informative, and efficient. I would highly rate their services. A note to future patients, make sure you read through all papers they provide, throughly.
258
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
Plan Your Oral Surgery With Us
A well-fitting denture starts with a solid foundation. Pre-prosthetic surgery allows us to shape the bone and soft tissue so your prosthetic feels more comfortable, works more reliably, and lasts longer. Dr. Drab provides this care with a clear understanding of how small adjustments can make a big difference. If you are planning for dentures or implant-supported treatment, The Oral Surgery Center in Greensboro, NC is here to help you prepare with precision and confidence.