ATTENTION VA BEACH PATIENTS:
Our new location is 837 First Colonial Road, VA Beach, VA 23451
If you have struggled with dentures that slip, rub, or never seem to fit quite right, the problem may not be the prosthetic itself. Bony ridges, uneven jaw contours, or excess tissue left behind after tooth loss can prevent even a well-made denture from sitting securely, leading to sore spots, difficulty chewing, and frustration every time you try to wear it comfortably.
At Goodove Oral Surgery, we help patients throughout Virginia Beach and the surrounding Hampton Roads community achieve a smoother, more stable foundation for their dental prosthetics. Dr. Scott R. Goodove founded our practice with a commitment to personalized, community-rooted care, and that same approach guides every pre-prosthetic procedure we perform, so you can move forward with a denture or implant that truly fits.
Pre-prosthetic surgery refers to a set of procedures designed to prepare the mouth for a dental prosthesis, such as a denture, partial, or implant-supported restoration. The goal is to create a smooth, stable, and properly contoured foundation so the finished prosthetic fits securely and feels comfortable.
Over time, the alveolar ridge, which is the bone that once supported your teeth, can develop irregularities after extractions or long-term tooth loss. These irregularities may include sharp bony edges, uneven contours, or excess soft tissue. According to research published by the National Institutes of Health, pre-prosthetic surgery restores oral function and facial form through surgical modification of the alveolar process, allowing for a well-fitting and esthetic dental prosthesis.
Every mouth is different, which is why we evaluate your bone structure and soft tissue closely before recommending a specific approach. Depending on your needs, your treatment plan may include one or more of the following procedures:
We often combine bone grafting with pre-prosthetic reshaping when a patient is also planning for future dental implants, since a stronger, more even ridge gives implants a better foundation for long-term stability.
Skipping pre-prosthetic preparation can lead to a denture or partial that never quite feels secure, no matter how many adjustments are made afterward. A poorly fitting prosthetic can also cause sore spots, accelerated bone loss, and difficulty speaking or chewing with confidence.
We use advanced imaging, including cone beam CT imaging, to get a precise, three-dimensional view of your jaw before recommending treatment. This allows us to plan your procedure with accuracy and explain exactly what to expect, so there are no surprises on the day of your surgery.
Most pre-prosthetic procedures are performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on your comfort level and the extent of the surgery. Our doctors have operating privileges at Virginia Beach Ambulatory Surgery Center and Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center for patients who require additional support during more extensive treatment.
Recovery time varies based on the specific procedure performed, though most patients can expect several weeks of healing before their new prosthetic is fitted. We provide detailed surgical instructions, so you know exactly how to care for the surgical site and support a smooth recovery at home.
Most patients experience only mild discomfort, which is well managed with local anesthesia during the procedure and standard pain management afterward.
If you have had difficulty getting a denture to fit properly, or if your dentist has noted bony irregularities in your jaw, a consultation with our team can help determine if pre-prosthetic surgery is right for you.
Coverage varies by plan and individual circumstances. Our team works with PPO plans, Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, TRICARE, and Veterans Affairs benefits, and we are happy to help you understand your options, including CareCredit and Cherry Financing.
Healing time depends on the specific procedure, but many patients are ready for their new prosthetic fitting within a few weeks of surgery.
Goodove Oral Surgery has remained an independent, community-focused practice by choice, giving Dr. Goodove and Dr. Peter Zagursky the flexibility to make treatment decisions based on what is genuinely best for each patient. That independence means you get a personalized experience, direct access to your surgeon, and a team invested in your long-term comfort, not just your next appointment.
If you are ready to explore whether pre-prosthetic surgery can help your denture or implant fit more comfortably, we invite you to reach out. Contact us today to schedule your consultation today.
Dr. Goodove brings years of specialized oral surgery expertise to Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, serving as your trusted hometown oral surgeon. With operating privileges at multiple local hospitals, Dr. Goodove delivers patient-centered care backed by advanced training and a commitment to creating comfortable, anxiety-free experiences. His philosophy of accessibility and personal attention sets the foundation for the practice's reputation as "the doctor's doctor" in the community.
Dr. Zagursky is a retired Army veteran who continues to serve the community through exceptional oral surgery care. With extensive military experience and specialized training in oral and maxillofacial surgery, Dr. Zagursky brings discipline, precision, and a deep commitment to patient welfare to every procedure. His background working with diverse patient populations and dedication to the underserved makes him an invaluable part of the Goodove Oral Surgery team.
Trusted by referring dentists and families since 2008
Office Hours: Monday – Thursday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Friday: 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
