WHAT IS AN ALVEOLOPLASTY?

Alveoloplasty is a dental surgery done at the same time when a tooth or several are extracted. This type of procedure is performed to smooth the jawbone socket where the natural tooth was. This socket is called alveolus and the process of remolding it is called alveoloplasty.

WHY YOU MAY NEED ALVEOLOPLASTY?

When a tooth is extracted, the socket needs several weeks to heal. But after the extraction, the tooth needs to be replaced with an artificial one, be it with a dental implant, crown, or bridge.

If the jawbone is not prepared for a replacement, the dentist needs to perform an alveoloplasty that will make the bone suitable for the replacement. 

If the area has bumps or it's uneven, it will be practically difficult and risky to place the artificial tooth. The procedure helps prepare the area for a successful tooth or teeth replacement. 

HOW IS ALVEOLOPLASTY PERFORMED?

This procedure it can be done either the moment the tooth is extracted or after de healing process is over. After the extraction, your dentist will evaluate the condition of your jawbone and determine if the alveoloplasty is needed. 

One reason the dentist performs the procedure the same day as the extraction is to facilitate the healing process with the desired shape. 

The procedure is always performed before placing a new tooth to make sure the new shape successfully supports the replacement. 

Alveoloplasty is performed under anesthesia, so you don't have to worry about feeling anything. After making an incision in the gum line to expose the jawbone, the dentist will start working on the bone to bring it to the proper shape. After the reshaping is done, the gumline is stitched back allowing the healing process to begin. 

The timeline of the healing process is different for every person, but it usually takes around two months for the site to heal and be ready for the artificial tooth. 

TAKEAWAY 

Alveoloplasty is a common procedure performed by dentists to ensure a tooth replacement is done successfully and avoid complications during and after the replacement steps. The reshaping of the jawbone is also necessary when the bone has lost density after having gum disease or any dental trauma.

WE CAN HELP BRING BACK YOUR BEAUTIFUL SMILE 

At South Austin Dental Associates, we have over 40 years of experience, so you can rest assured that you will find quality dentistry from a team of professionals that you can trust. 

You take a personalized approach, meaning that we never try to push any unnecessary treatments and always look for plans and solutions that fit your needs. You can count on us to go above and beyond to make you feel safe and comfortable during the treatment m 

You can contact us today and schedule an appointment. Let us know how we can help, and we will make sure to deliver.