Pre-Prosthetic Surgeries
Pre-prosthetic surgeries are surgical procedures performed to prepare the oral tissues and bone structure before placing the prosthesis. These procedures ensure that the prostheses are placed stably, aesthetically, and functionally.
Epulis Fissuratum (Prosthesis-Related Fibrous Tissue Growths)
Epulis fissuratum is a fibrotic tissue growth that occurs in the oral mucosa as a result of long-term pressure from poorly fitted prostheses.
What Causes It?
• Continuous trauma from prostheses with fit problems
• Prolonged and irregular use of the prosthesis
Symptoms
• Swelling, redness, and sensitivity in the mouth
• Tissue growths that prevent the prosthesis from seating properly
• Formation of infection or ulcers over time
How Is It Treated?
• Local anesthesia is applied
• Excess fibrotic tissue is surgically removed
• The prosthesis is corrected or a new one is prepared
• Stitches are removed within 7–10 days during the healing process
Vestibuloplasty
Vestibuloplasty is an operation to deepen the floor of the mouth (vestibule) to increase the retention of the prosthesis.
Why Is It Done?
• Insufficient height of the jawbone affects prosthesis fit
• Muscles and connective tissues disrupt the stability of the prosthesis
• To increase the tissue volume under the prosthesis for better adaptation
How Is It Done?
• Local or general anesthesia is applied
• The soft tissue at the floor of the mouth is reshaped
• The area is stabilized by placing stitches
• Swelling and mild pain may be seen after the operation
• Full recovery usually takes 3–4 weeks
Alveolar Crest Adjustment (Alveoloplasty)
The alveolar crest is the jawbone structure that houses the roots of the teeth. Alveolar crest adjustment involves correcting irregular or protruding bone structures to ensure that prostheses fit better.
Why Is It Done?
• To prevent bone irregularities after extraction
• To prevent protruding bones from hindering prosthesis adaptation
• To reduce pressure under the prosthesis and provide comfort
How Is It Done?
• Local anesthesia is applied
• The bone surface is filed and made smooth
• The soft tissue is closed and sutured
• The healing period lasts 2–3 weeks
• The area is completely healed before the prosthesis is fitted
• Temporary prostheses can be used if necessary