Alveoloplasty
Pronunciation: al-vee-oh-LOH-plas-tee
A surgical procedure to reshape and smooth the alveolar bone ridge, typically performed after tooth extraction to prepare the jaw for a prosthesis.
Full Definition
Alveoloplasty is an oral surgical procedure in which the alveolar bone is contoured, reshaped, or reduced to create a smooth, regular ridge suitable for denture placement or implant preparation. It is commonly performed in conjunction with multiple extractions or as a standalone procedure. The term is often encountered in surgical operative notes, prosthetic planning reports, and insurance pre-authorization documents. Editors should note the double 'l' spelling and distinguish it from the broader term 'alveolectomy,' which implies more extensive bone removal.
Usage
Usage note: Do not contract to 'alveoplasty' — the medial 'l' is retained in the accepted spelling.
In Context
- "The surgical report noted that alveoloplasty was completed bilaterally before upper denture fabrication commenced." — Oral surgery operative note
- "Pre-authorization for alveoloplasty was submitted alongside the extraction request." — Insurance documentation