Treatment: Upper and Lower All-On-4 Dental Implants
Tom's dental rehabilitation was a collaborative effort between the surgical and prosthodontic specialties. He presented to us with partial edentulism, having lost most of his posterior teeth over a number of years.
Loss of posterior teeth contributes to an unfavorable distribution of occlusal load to the remaining teeth. This may lead to increased attrition, especially noted in the anterior teeth, and in extreme cases produces alterations in the vertical dimensions of occlusion, commonly known as a collapsed bite. The lower jaw is then typically postured more forward as a result, and TMJ issues may ensue.
"When a patient is missing teeth intended for chewing, the burden placed on the remaining teeth takes a toll with generalized signs of fractures, wear, recurrent decay, and mobility."
DR. KAMRAN HAGHIGHAT, B.D.S., M.S., P.C.
With the sequential loss of his teeth, Tom was naturally avoiding eating the foods he once enjoyed. With missing teeth intended for chewing, the burden placed on the remaining dentition was clearly evident. Assessment of his remaining teeth indicated the years of overload had taken their toll. These included generalized signs of fractures, wear, recurrent decay, and mobility. Other than the functional limitations, Tom had also grown more aware of the appearance of his teeth and desired a smile he would be confident to share.
Many approaches may be offered for situations such as Tom's. Following a comprehensive evaluation and discussion regarding the various options, an All-on-4 dental implant treatment for both jaws was planned. This enabled us to provide Tom with a new smile in just one day.
His initial treatment was the removal of all remaining dentition, placement of 4 dental implants in each arch, with a temporary bridge anchored to the implants on the same day. Tom's procedure took place in a matter of 6 hours. Patients are treated in a relaxed setting with conscious sedation. Due to the amnesic properties of the medication, most patients have little recollection of the time spent in the office.
The transformation was immediately remarkable. Tom already looked like a much younger version of himself. Six months later, once the implants were integrated with the bone, final permanent fixed bridges were fabricated and his new smile was delivered.
Tom has been enjoying his new teeth and no foods are off-limits.
