The path to getting full or partial dentures is not always straight. Some oral conditions must be rectified before the prosthetics can be placed. Some patients require vestibuloplasty, surgery of the oral vestibule, which is the space between your lips and cheeks, and the teeth and gums. If you’re a candidate for the surgery, your dentist will refer you to an oral/maxillofacial surgeon.

The staff at the office of Bellevue Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery are experts in oral/maxillofacial surgery. We’re a team that’s proficient at diagnosing and treating all oral surgery issues. We take as much time as you need to address your every concern and clearly explain your options in care. 

Vestibuloplasty creates more surface and area to accommodate the appliances, whereas the vestibule you were born with is the ideal size for your natural teeth. A shallow vestibule can make dentures feel uncomfortable as well as obstruct the cleanliness of the tissues that support the dentures. Plaque that starts to build up in that area can promote pockets at the base of your teeth, and inflamed and receding gums. Vestibuloplasty is carried out in one of two ways: with a scalpel or a diode laser. 

During the scalpel method, the oral surgeon deepens the vestibule area via incisions that will separate connective tissue and some muscle attachments where the cheeks and gums meet. He then sews the cheek to its new and improved location. 

With the diode laser procedure, the oral surgeon widens the vestibule with the laser to delete the muscles fibers. The laser technique can lessen scarring, remove the need for stitches and be preferable for a patient with a bleeding disorder. 

The oral/maxillofacial surgeon will talk to you about which of the two methods is better for your situation. And you can be sure that anesthesia will keep you free of pain. 

Bellevue Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is made up of specialists who are friendly, highly trained and eager to help you feel comfortable and relaxed while receiving the best in care. For more information about us and how we can help you, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment.

By Bellevue Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

February 22, 2022