Restoring Function And Beauty: A Patient-Focused Smile Transformation
When a patient arrives reporting jaw pain, bite issues, and a smile she's unhappy with, it takes a systematic approach to transform function and looks. For one determined dental team, utilizing risk analysis and a step-by-step protocol led to renewed comfort and confidence for their deserving patient.
64-year old Jane drove over 700 miles to seek help for worsening temporomandibular joint pain and difficulty chewing. She also hoped to rejuvenate her worn smile. With complex problems involving occlusal instability, esthetic defects, and past treatment failures, a rushed approach could worsen matters. Instead, the team methodically assessed risks and defined treatment goals, empowering Jane to achieve her ideal function and beauty.
Jane's history revealed possible reasons for her struggles - orthodontics and extensive dental work left her squeezing her teeth together and avoiding hard foods. Gum recession and mismatched implant crowns also marred her smile. But novel technology helped unlock the path forward.
A 3D-printed deprogrammer provided temporary relief by unlocking Jane's strained jaw position. This allowed accurate records using the deprogrammed bite. The diagnostic casts then enabled designing blueprints for ideal restorations using a wax-up. A systematic approach provided clarity.
With Jane's constricted chewing identified, opening her bite would relieve this and make space to restore worn teeth. After preparations, provisional restorations followed the wax-up's contours to preview her new smile. The team collaborated with the lab to set prosthetic teeth at levels that would harmonize beautifully.
Jane was thrilled with the natural aesthetics and comfortable function when the finished restorations arrived. Strategic gingival recontouring ensured proper seating while enhancing symmetry. With occlusion refined to distribute forces evenly, Jane could finally enjoy eating without fear of fractures.
This smile transformation required technical skill and care to restore Jane to lasting comfort and confidence. But more important was listening to understand Jane’s goals and following an evidence-based protocol to fulfill her vision. With renewed faith in her dentist, Jane now flashes a stunning smile she’s proud to share.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Was The Patient's Chief Complaint?
Jane mainly complained of jaw joint pain and difficulty chewing certain foods due to an uncomfortable bite and fear of fracture. She also wanted to improve the look of her worn smile.
How Did The Team Determine The Treatment Plan?
They used diagnostic tools like mounted study casts, a deprogrammer, and risk analysis to systematically assess factors from occlusion to aesthetics. This guided planning treatment steps.
Why Was The Deprogrammer Appliance Used?
It allowed capturing jaw position records free of strain. This identified Jane’s constricted chewing pattern so treatment could unlock this occlusion instability.
What Materials Were Chosen And Why?
Layered zirconia and lithium disilicate were chosen for strength, function, and optimized aesthetics in different areas of the mouth.
How Did They Manage Soft Tissue For Ideal Aesthetics?
Careful recontouring of gum tissue allowed implant crowns to emerge harmoniously with neighboring teeth for a symmetrical smile.