What is the purpose of alveoplasty in dental surgery?

Alveoplasty is a surgical procedure specifically aimed at contouring and reshaping the alveolar ridge, which is the bony ridge that contains the sockets of the teeth. This procedure is vital for ensuring that the jawbone maintains an appropriate shape after tooth extraction or to prepare the site for future dental prosthetics, such as dentures or implants.

By performing alveoplasty, dental surgeons can create a smooth and properly contoured ridge to enhance the stability and aesthetics of dentures or implants, ultimately leading to improved functional and cosmetic outcomes for the patient. Proper contouring can also help in the retention of dental appliances and reduce the risk of complications or discomfort associated with uneven bony surfaces.

The other options do not directly relate to the primary purpose of alveoplasty. For example, relieving pain during extraction is typically achieved through anesthesia and not through alveoplasty. Implanting dental crowns is a different procedure focused on restoring individual teeth and does not involve shaping the alveolar ridge. Removing excess gum tissue is a separate surgical procedure known as gingivectomy, which targets the gums rather than the underlying bone structure.