Motivation is a goal
Enhancing compromised dentition
Every dentist encounters patients with difficult life stories. Some patients are open to sharing their experiences, while others prefer to keep their struggles to themselves. Regardless, one thing is clear, many find it hard to visit the dentist. The sound of the drill, the fear of needles, and the anxiety about pain can all contribute to that fear. Coming to the dentist is not easy. It takes courage to let go, to hear what’s wrong, and to trust someone with your care.
We all carry our own burdens, and some stories are harder to share than others. One such patient came to me with a history of struggles, but she had made the strong decision to turn things around. After years of neglecting her oral health, the consequences were apparent when she opened her mouth. Severe periodontal condition with multiple bone defects and a lot of supra- and sub-gingival calculus was examined. A significant periodontal issue that could result in the loss of teeth if left untreated.
After assessing the situation, I advised a thorough periodontal cleaning and curettage by an oral hygienist to address the inflammation and improve her oral hygiene. Given the mobility of the lower anterior teeth, I also decided to place fixed retention to stabilize the teeth and prevent possible avulsion.
The journey was long and painful, but the results were highly successful. I was pleasantly surprised by the improvements I saw during regular check-ups.
Within about a year and a half, her condition had significantly improved. The periodontal pockets were reduced, and her oral hygiene had improved dramatically. The gums showed no bleeding and although reducted, periodontium was stable.
However, the space between her previously mobile teeth and the retracted gums didn’t offer the most aesthetically pleasing result. So, I decided to add a little sparkle to her smile and further enhance her new oral hygiene habits.
Using digital smile design, we crafted composite veneers from canine to canine on the upper jaw. I used G-aenial Universal A2 composite and an injection technique. This method closed the unpleasant spaces while preserving the natural form of the teeth, allowing for easy and thorough cleaning.
To prevent potential movement, I again placed a fixed retention on the palatal side of the anterior teeth.
Was she happy? That’s always the first question. As with any dental transformation, it’s normal to feel a bit strange looking at yourself in the mirror after such a change. However, she was pleased with the results and even expressed a desire to undergo the same treatment on her lower jaw!
It’s a reminder that every patient’s journey is unique. We’re not just working on teeth; we’re working on confidence, comfort, and well-being. And that is, what makes me, happy.
