The Challenge
This patient presented with a large, one-piece fixed bridge on his upper jaw. His main concern was that the bridge was breaking apart, and he feared it could fracture completely if he bit down too hard.
The Solution
A CT scan, clinical exam, aesthetic photographs, and full medical and dental history revealed that the anchor teeth supporting the bridge were failing due to decay.
Additionally, the porcelain of the metal-ceramic bridge was deteriorating, compromising both his bite and aesthetics.
We recommended extracting the remaining upper teeth and placing dental implants to support a zirconia All-on-4 restoration.
First Visit
On surgery day, we extracted the remaining upper teeth and placed four implants to support the future prosthesis. A temporary full denture was delivered for use during the six-month healing period.
Second Visit
After healing, we took final impressions of the implants and created a mock-up of the new upper arch. The next day, we tested a plastic prototype to refine function and aesthetics.
Although the patient’s main concern was function, we aimed to provide a highly aesthetic outcome as well.
Once approved, our lab fabricated the final zirconia All-on-4 prosthesis.
Final Result
Within a few days, we delivered the definitive restoration and tested the bite. The patient was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable and natural his new teeth felt, as well as by their appearance.
At the final appointment, we confirmed the fit, refined the bite, and documented the case with X-rays and aesthetic photographs.
