DENTAL IMPLANT CASE STUDY

New Teeth in One Day

Dr Andrew Moore

When patients have several missing teeth, they often want a solution that allows them to walk out of their dentist’s surgery with a full set of perfect teeth – so called “teeth in a day”.  In this case study the patient had a temporary fixed bridge fitted at the same time as having implants placed.  He was very pleased with the final result when the permanent fixed bridge was fitted some months later.

Stewart consulted Dr Andrew Moore as he had several missing and broken teeth in his upper jaw.  He was also unhappy with the appearance of the teeth in his lower jaw.  Stewart’s main concern was to avoid having removable dentures.  He also did not want to consider bone augmentation.  This is necessary when the patient does not have enough natural bone left in the jaw in which to place the implants. 

  

Dr Moore discussed the various treatment options available with Stewart.  The patient wanted to have his new set of teeth fitted on the same day as the remaining teeth were removed and implants fitted.  This avoids the need to wear a temporary removable denture while the implants are integrating with the bone. 

Dr Moore decided to treat this patient using a new technique called computer guided surgery.  Based on three-dimensional X-ray scans, this system provides highly predictable results.  It is particularly helpful for immediate loading cases, such as ‘teeth in a day’ type treatments.  Dr Moore explains, “The software helps me to accurately plan complex implant surgery and carry out the treatment more quickly.” 

Before Stewart’s treatment began, a CT scan of both jaws was carried out.  “This enables the dentist to plan the position of the implants to create the best aesthetic result”, Dr Moore adds.  A model was constructed and used to make a surgical guide.  Surgical guides ensure the implants are positioned at the right angle and depth, exactly as planned in advance on the computer software.

Following implant placement, a screw-retained temporary fixed bridge was placed in the upper jaw using six implants.  Stewart was told to follow a soft diet for six weeks and avoid hard chewy foods, to allow initial bone healing.  At his follow-up appointment two weeks after surgery, he said, “I felt no discomfort during or following the procedure.” 

The final metal-bonded-to-acrylic bridge was fitted a few months later.  Only slight adjustments were required to ensure the bridge fitted into the pre-determined position.  After this final fitting he added, “I am delighted with the appearance and feel of the new denture. I am looking forward to having the bottom set done.”  Stewart subsequently had a similar procedure to improve the appearance of his lower teeth.