1. What is Alveoplasty?
Alveoplasty is a reconstruction procedure on the jawbones. It can be on the upper jawbone, the maxilla, or the lower one, the mandible. The surgeon shapes the alveolar process, the portion of the bone that holds the teeth in place, so that a man-made replacement for the teeth has a place to sit. The procedure often immediately follows after the surgeon extracts several teeth and smooths the surface in preparation for dentures.
2. Ready for Dentures
Oral surgeons do most alveoplasty, although some dentists also use the procedure. Cancer victims may be candidates for alveoplasty even if they lose just one tooth. Any dental work caries need correction prior to radiation, since the radiation causes a dry mouth and exacerbates the problem. Alveoplasty speeds the healing process because a sutured gum line heals quicker and this allows the patient to take radiation treatment sooner. Otherwise, the procedure takes place after the extraction of several teeth.
3. Make a Stent
A dentist that fits the dentures may make a model of the area to show the oral surgeon where the problem occurs. The dentist uses the cast as an example and grinds down the area to an appropriate height. He then makes a stent, a clear plastic mold that looks like the base of a denture, of the area for the plastic surgeon to use as a guide for the dental surgery.
4. Local or Sound Asleep
The dental surgeon and health of the patient mean that the location of the surgery and type of anesthetic vary. Some surgery is done at the surgeon's office under a local anesthetic and follows the removal of the teeth. After the surgeon removes the teeth, she cuts the gum to expose the bone. The surgeon then evens out the bone, rinses the area of bone fragments and stitches it closed. If the dentist provides a stint, the oral surgeon puts it on top of the skin before she stitches the area closed. This insures a proper fit for the dentures.
5. What Follows Alveoplasty?
There may be a bruise after alveoplasty, particularly if it takes place on the lower jaw. Sometimes numbness is noticeable for months after the surgery. This isn't really a problem since no one else can tell your face is numb. There is no drooping or drooling with the numbness. The surgeon evaluates the healing process within a week or two of the surgery.
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