What happens?

An alveoplasty or alveolectomy is the reshaping or removal of alveolar bone which supports the teeth. This is done to remove unwanted contours, ridges, or sharp edges for a smooth more comfortable foundation for a denture. Alveolar bone procedures can performed simultaneously with tooth extractions but in some cases is delayed till after extractions to allow natural shaping during the healing process. Gingivoplasty procedures are similar but are performed to remove or reshape the gum tissue to provide a more acceptable surface for a removable denture. Occasionally excess or redundant soft tissue requires removal.