Name of the Procedure:

Alveoloplasty Common Names: Bone smoothing, Bone reshaping

Summary

Alveoloplasty is a dental surgical procedure where the jawbone is reshaped and smoothed out, typically following tooth extraction. This helps to prepare the mouth for dentures or to improve the fit and comfort of existing dentures.

Purpose

Medical Condition/Problem: Irregular or sharp bone edges following tooth extraction, inadequate bone shape for dentures. Goals/Expected Outcomes: Create a smooth, contoured ridge for better fitting of dentures, enhance oral comfort, and promote better healing.

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions:

• High points or sharp edges in the jawbone after tooth extraction.
• Infections or irritation due to uneven bone.
• Difficulty in fitting or wearing dentures. Patient Criteria: Patients recently undergoing multiple tooth extractions or those needing denture fitting.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Patients may need to fast for several hours prior if general anesthesia is used. Normal oral hygiene should be maintained.
• Diagnostic Tests/Assessments: Dental X-rays or CT scans to evaluate bone structure.

Procedure Description

1. Administration of local anesthetic (in some cases, general anesthesia).
2. Small incisions are made in the gum to expose the jawbone.
3. The bone is smoothed and reshaped using special dental instruments like bone files or rotary tools.
4. The gum tissue is then sutured back in place. Tools/Equipment: Bone files, rotary instruments, sutures. Anesthesia/Sedation: Local anesthesia; general anesthesia if needed.

Duration

Typically around 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity and the number of quadrants.

Setting

• Setting*: Outpatient clinic or dental office.

Personnel

• Healthcare Professionals Involved: Oral surgeons, dental hygienists, anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used).

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, swelling, pain.
• Rare Complications: Nerve damage, delayed healing, allergic reactions to anesthesia.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Smooth jawbone for optimal denture fit, reduced oral discomfort, enhanced healing of extraction sites.
• Realization Time: Benefits are typically noticed when dentures are worn or as healing progresses.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Maintain good oral hygiene, use prescribed mouthwash, ice packs for swelling, and avoid hard foods.
• Expected Recovery Time: Typically 1 to 2 weeks for initial healing; full recovery might take longer. Follow-up appointments are necessary.

Alternatives

• Other Treatment Options: Leaving the bone as is (not recommended if severe), bone grafting in some cases.
• Pros and Cons: Alternatives may leave jawbone uneven and could lead to poor denture fit or oral discomfort.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Patients might feel pressure but no pain due to anesthesia.
• After the Procedure: Possible swelling, mild to moderate pain managed with prescribed medications, and temporary dietary restrictions.