Pre-Prosthetic Surgery in Summit, NJ
Pre-prosthetic surgery reshapes bone and tissue to improve denture comfort and fit. Ideal before receiving traditional or implant-supported dentures.
What Is Pre-Prosthetic Surgery?
Pre-prosthetic surgery includes procedures that reshape or modify the jaw and surrounding tissues to better accommodate a dental prosthesis like dentures. A smooth, stable foundation is key for comfort and performance. This may involve:
- Removing excess bone or soft tissue
- Smoothing sharp ridges
- Recontouring the alveolar ridge
- Reducing undercuts
- Exposing bone to improve stability
These procedures are often part of a broader transition to dentures or implant-supported restorations.
When Is Pre-Prosthetic Surgery Needed?
You may need this procedure if you:
- Are receiving a complete or partial denture
- Have difficulty wearing traditional dentures
- Have irregular jawbone contours or excess tissue
- Are moving from extractions to prosthetics
- Are preparing for All-On-X treatment
Dr. Kim uses 3D imaging and clinical evaluation to determine if reshaping is right for you.
What to Expect from the Procedure
Evaluation and Planning: We review denture plans, medical history, and imaging to plan your procedure.
Surgical Recontouring: Dr. Kim reshapes or removes tissue to create an optimal denture foundation, often using alveoloplasty.
Recovery and Follow-Up: Recovery usually takes 1–2 weeks. We coordinate closely with your prosthodontist for ideal timing.
Collaborative Care for Long-Term Comfort
We work closely with your restorative dentist to ensure that surgical and prosthetic phases align. Our team is committed to improving your comfort, function, and confidence with precision-driven care.
FAQs
Pre-prosthetic surgery prepares the jaw and soft tissues for a stable, comfortable denture fit by reshaping or smoothing the ridge where the denture will rest.
No. The procedure is done under local anesthesia or sedation. Mild soreness is expected afterward and can be managed with medication.
Not always. It’s recommended if your jaw ridge is sharp, uneven, or has tissue irregularities that may affect denture comfort and fit.
Most patients heal within 1–2 weeks. Dr. Kim will coordinate with your dentist to determine the right timing for denture fitting.
Preparing the Jaw for a Comfortable, Secure Prosthetic Fit
If you're preparing for dentures or have struggled with poor prosthetic fit in the past, Prism Oral Surgery & Implants of Summit offers pre-prosthetic surgery to improve your comfort, function, and confidence. Dr. Jean Kim delivers expert surgical care in a setting focused on precision and compassion.
