Dr. Libbe presented to ArtLab Dentistry suffering from a failing removable upper implant prosthesis that had deteriorated over the ten years she had it. She had framework damage and fractures to the denture, as well as an exposed implant. She needed complete restoration for her upper jaw.
Her denture was fabricated in UCLA and had been serving her well for about a decade. But the problem with removable overdentures is that they move.
Failing implant with exposed threads
In the long term, because of the movement of an appliance, it can cause problems like wear, damage, fracture, and bone loss around the implants. We suspect problems arise because of all the movement and fatigue that happens over the lifecycle of the prosthesis. The more movement and shifting forces that are applied to the implant, the more likely they are to have screw, framework, and restorative fractures.
In Dr. Libbe’s case, in addition to fractures to the prosthesis and the bar, she was beginning to have problems with bone loss around the implant. Because the prosthesis was sitting above the failing and exposed implants, there were some hygiene issues as well.
We removed the exposed failing implants from the upper anterior region. When threads are exposed, bacteria can attach to the rough surface, causing further bone loss. The rough surface of a dental implant should be below the gum line. It is always a good idea to remove ailing implants that have exposed surfaces.
Dr. Libbe’s provisional teeth
We created an appliance for Dr. Libbe that utilized new implants strongly anchored in bone. We transitioned her with a fixed provisional restoration so she could function during the healing phase. It was created from acrylic resin and lasted for the length of her treatment, which was about nine months.
Dr. Libbe with provisional teeth worn for the length of her treatment
After several months of healing, Dr. Libbe was provided with her final restoration – a zirconia prosthesis for her upper jaw. Her zirconia restoration has completely changed her life. It has helped with her appearance, her health, the way she feels, her quality of life, and even with her breathing.
Pano before treatment
Pano after treatment
Appliances that are fabricated correctly, with less volume, cause less restriction of the tongue, which allows the patient to speak and breathe better.
Transitioning from a failed implant denture, through a provisional phase to stabilize the patient immediately, and finalizing with an asthethic beautiful restoration is what gave Dr. Libbe her beautiful new smile.
Dr. Libbe’s beautiful new smile
Beautiful final restoration
“I love Dr. Reshad. He is the most caring, most considerate dentist I could ever imagine. See my new beautiful teeth? Enjoy using him as your dentist too.“
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