Dental Articles - Bolton

Mary's Case Study (Single Dental Implant)

The Patient’s Story

Mary, a 67-year-old retiree, had been struggling with extensive tooth loss for over a decade. Her dental health had deteriorated due to a combination of periodontal disease and fear of dental treatment. By the time she visited Simona Dental Studio, she had only a few decayed teeth remaining in her upper and lower jaws.

Mary’s condition affected every aspect of her life. Chewing even soft foods was painful, and her diet was limited to soups and mashed potatoes. Her social confidence had plummeted; she avoided gatherings, rarely smiled in photos, and often felt embarrassed about her appearance.

The Challenge

Mary’s primary concern was finding a permanent solution that looked and felt natural, allowing her to eat and smile confidently again. She had tried removable dentures, but they were ill-fitting and caused constant discomfort. The loose dentures also made her speech slurred, adding to her frustration.

Without intervention, Mary’s condition would worsen. The continued absence of teeth was accelerating bone loss in her jaw, further compromising her facial structure. The shrinking jawbone gave her face a sunken appearance, making her look older than her years. Prolonged malnutrition was putting her overall health at risk.

Mary was hesitant about undergoing multiple surgeries or lengthy procedures. She wanted a solution that would provide immediate results with minimal downtime.

The Solution: All-on-Four Full Arch Implants

The All-on-Four technique was recommended as the ideal solution for Mary’s needs. Unlike traditional methods that might require bone grafting and several months of healing, the All-on-Four approach uses four strategically placed dental implants to support a full arch of prosthetic teeth. This technique is designed to maximize the use of existing bone, often eliminating the need for grafting.

Technical Overview (in Layman’s Terms):

All-on-Four implants are titanium screws placed into the jawbone, mimicking natural tooth roots. These implants fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration, providing a strong and permanent foundation for the new teeth. By angling the back implants, the system achieves stability even in patients with significant bone loss. The prosthetic arch is custom-designed to match the shape, size, and color of the patient’s natural teeth, ensuring a seamless appearance.

Procedure Timeline:

• Initial Assessment and Planning: A comprehensive 3D CT scan was used to evaluate Mary’s bone density and jaw structure. The precise placement of the implants was mapped out using advanced software.
• Surgery Day: Mary underwent a single procedure under sedation, during which her remaining teeth were extracted, and the four implants were placed. A temporary prosthetic arch was attached immediately, allowing her to leave the clinic with a functional and beautiful smile.
• Final Restoration: After a healing period of four months, during which the implants fused with the bone, Mary received her permanent prosthetic arch. This final set was made of durable materials designed to mimic the strength and aesthetics of natural teeth.

The Outcome

Mary’s transformation was remarkable. On the same day as the surgery, she could smile confidently with her temporary prosthetic arch. Her speech improved immediately, and she reported feeling more at ease in social situations.

Once the permanent arch was fitted, Mary experienced a significant improvement in her ability to chew and enjoy her favorite foods. For the first time in years, she could eat crunchy vegetables, nuts, and even steak without discomfort. Her overall health improved as her diet became more balanced.

Mary’s jawbone was preserved, thanks to the stimulation provided by the implants. This not only maintained her facial structure but also gave her a youthful appearance. Friends and family commented on how radiant and confident she looked.

Key Results:

• Functionality Restored: Full chewing ability and clear speech.
• Aesthetic Improvements: A natural-looking, radiant smile.
• Health Benefits: Improved nutrition and jawbone preservation.
• Emotional Well-being: Renewed confidence and participation in social activities.

Without Treatment: What Could Have Happened?

Had Mary not opted for the All-on-Four solution, her quality of life would have continued to decline. The bone loss in her jaw would have progressed, eventually making her face appear more sunken. The constant use of ill-fitting dentures would have exacerbated her discomfort and speech difficulties.

Additionally, the nutritional deficiencies caused by her limited diet could have led to more severe health issues, including muscle weakness and reduced immunity. Her social withdrawal would likely have continued, affecting her mental health and overall happiness.

Comparison of Outcomes

Why Choose Simona Dental Studio?

Simona Dental Studio specializes in advanced dental implant procedures like All-on-Four, combining cutting-edge technology with a patient-centered approach. Dr. Terinder Chahal is passionate about dental implants and periodontology, with decades of experience and an impeccable track record of successful outcomes.

The clinic’s serene, spa-like environment ensures that patients feel comfortable and cared for every step of the way. From the initial consultation to post-treatment care, patients feel supported and confident in their decision.

Takeaway

The All-on-Four procedure is more than a dental solution—it’s a life-changing experience. For patients like Mary, it restores not just oral functionality but also confidence, health, and happiness.

---

Dentist Bolton