Professional
Technical
IVT
alveolectomy
Pronunciation: al-VEE-oh-lek-toh-mee
Surgical removal or reshaping of the alveolar bone, typically performed to smooth bone contours after tooth extraction.
Full Definition
Alveolectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal or recontouring of alveolar bone tissue. This procedure is commonly performed following tooth extractions to eliminate sharp bone edges, create smooth contours for denture placement, or prepare the site for future dental implants. The procedure may involve simple bone filing or more extensive bone removal depending on the clinical situation.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with alveoloplasty, which refers specifically to smoothing without removal of bone tissue.
In Context
- "The oral surgeon performed an alveolectomy to remove the sharp bone spicules following the molar extraction." — Surgical procedure note
- "Post-extraction alveolectomy was indicated to ensure proper denture fit." — Treatment plan documentation
Also known as
alveolar bone contouring
bone recontouring
Contrasted with
bone grafting
ridge augmentation
Don't confuse with
alveoloplasty
alveolotomy