When a person has excess bone growth or develops sharp edges or irregularities when teeth are lost or removed, they may experience discomfort or difficulty with procedures like dental implants.  
Bone recontouring is a specialized surgical procedure that gently smooths and reshapes the jawbone to restore harmony, comfort, and function.

At Life Oral Health Periodontics and Implant Surgery, we approach bone recontouring with clinical precision and deep respect for your body’s natural healing process. We use advanced 3D imaging, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), and conservative techniques to support healing. This approach helps your bone heal predictably while preserving your facial structure and long-term oral health.

What Is Bone Recontouring?

Bone recontouring is a surgical procedure that reshapes the jawbone by removing excess bone, smoothing uneven ridges, or removing sharp edges. It can be performed on its own or in conjunction with other treatments, such as tooth extractions or bone grafting.

We often perform this procedure to:

• Create an even ridge for dental implants
• Remove tori (bony overgrowths) that interfere with function or aesthetics
• Reshape bone after a failed root canal or infection
• Support soft tissue healing and improve the gum line’s appearance

Alveoloplasty

Alveoloplasty is a surgical procedure that smooths the jawbone after a tooth is removed. It removes sharp ridges or uneven areas, creating a stable, comfortable surface for dentures or future dental work.

Tori Removal

Tori removal is a surgical procedure that removes bone growths in the mouth.

These growths, called tori, are benign and often appear on the roof of the mouth (palatal tori) or along the inside of the lower jaw (mandibular tori). While not harmful, they can interfere with denture fit, cause irritation, or affect speech and chewing. 

When Is Bone Recontouring Recommended?

Not every patient needs bone recontouring, but it can make a significant difference when:

• Your jawbone has sharp ridges or uneven contours
• You have excess bone growth (tori) on the roof of your mouth or under the tongue
• Tooth loss or extractions have left behind irregular bone edges
• You are undergoing full mouth rehabilitation or cosmetic and restorative procedures

Our Advanced Approach to Bone Recontouring

At Life Oral Health, we take a biologic, patient-centered approach to every surgical procedure. Bone recontouring is performed with careful planning and respect for the surrounding tissues to minimize trauma and support healing.

• Technology-driven precision: We use CBCT scans and digital planning to map out the procedure in detail.
• Waterlase laser-assisted surgery: When possible, we use our Biolase Waterlase™ laser to gently remove excess bone with minimal bleeding or discomfort.
• Platelet-rich fibrin(PRF): We may incorporate PRF, a natural healing serum made from your own blood, to support your recovery. It helps reduce inflammation, stimulate bone regeneration, and encourage soft tissue healing.
• Conservative care: We remove only what’s needed to support your oral health goals, preserving healthy bone and gum tissue whenever possible.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Your comfort is our priority. Bone recontouring is typically performed with local anesthesia, and we offer oral or IV sedation options for relaxation.

1. Evaluation: We take digital dental impressions and CBCT scans to plan your procedure.
2. Anesthesia: We use the STA Wand, a gentle injection system that delivers local anesthetic slowly and precisely. It eliminates the pressure and sting often associated with traditional injections, making your experience more comfortable from the very first step.
3. Surgery: We use a surgical handpiece or laser to carefully reshape the bone, removing irregularities and creating a smooth, even surface. This ensures optimal conditions for healing and for any future treatments, such as dentures or dental implants.
4. Biologic support: To support natural healing, we may apply platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and other biologic materials to the surgical site. PRF enhances tissue regeneration, reduces inflammation, and helps improve post-operative comfort.
5. Closure and recovery: The area is sutured as needed, and you will receive detailed post-op instructions and supplements to promote healing.

Recovery and Aftercare

Mild swelling or tenderness is common after bone recontouring. Most patients return to normal routines within a few days.

We may recommend that you:

• Stick to soft foods for the first few days
• Avoid vigorous rinsing or using straws
• Take any prescribed pain medications or natural supplements as directed
• Follow all instructions for gentle oral hygiene and healing

We will schedule follow-ups to monitor your healing and plan your next steps, whether that’s denture fitting, implant placement, or other periodontal treatments.

Bone Recontouring and Dental Implants

Dental implants require a strong, stable foundation. If the bone is uneven or too narrow, we may recommend recontouring in combination with:

• Bone grafting to restore bone volume
• Sinus lift for upper jaw implant support

By reshaping the residual jawbone, we can improve bone density and ensure that your implants integrate predictably with your jaw for lasting results.

Frequently Asked Questions