The versatile “lip switch” or transitional flap vestibuloplasty combined with alveoloplasty and implant placement to treat atrophic mandibles with inadequate vestibules and attached tissue: A case series and review of the literature

Introduction/Aims The edentulous mandibular ridge and associated shallow vestibule are often seen as a challenge in the oral rehabilitation of patients. Dental implants can provide an improvement in mastication and patient satisfaction. The aim of this study is to utilize a preprosthetic mucosal flap combined with a repositional periosteal flap concomitant with an alveoloplasty and placement of endosteal implants as a single‐stage procedure in the anterior mandible. This approach provides a valued alternative for dental rehabilitation in patients with poor masticatory efficiency using a conventional denture. Methods Eight patients underwent the preprosthetic surgical plan in the oral surgery clinic of the dental school during a 1‐year period. Age, sex, preoperative, and postoperative vestibular depth, as well as hard and soft tissue elements were measured (P