Mandibular Submucosal Vesibbuloplasty

Submucosal vestibuloplasty, initially unsuccessful for the mandible, has found success in deepening the maxillary vestibule, particularly for edentulous patients with insufficient functional maxillary alveolar ridges. The technique involves a vertical midline incision, submucosal tunneling, and supraperiosteal dissection to reposition or excise submucosal and muscular tissue. The procedure, reviewed by Obwegeser and Macintosh and Obwegeser, aims to enhance denture support. The use of a modified denture or splint aids healing, resulting in increased vestibular depth. Immediate denture wear is possible, with final relining or construction completed post-surgery. While the advent of dental implants has reduced the need for such procedures, submucosal vestibuloplasty remains a viable option for select cases.