Improving Mother Nature - Case #18

A properly fitted set of dentures must address a person's smile, lip structure, facial features, jaw relationships, and bone structures.

Many of the rules that we employ today during our Extreme Makeovers and cosmetic dentistry are based on old-fashioned rules developed through the art of dentures.

Take this case, for example. This patient came to our office complaining that she did not like the appearance of her teeth. Unfortunately, due to serious infections we could not salvage all of her remaining teeth.

She wanted a new smile and was not unhappy about losing teeth that were giving her pain. Her main concern was being without any teeth for more than 1 day!

First, we salvaged 4 teeth on her bottom jaw with root canals and porcelain crowns. Then, we fitted a new set of lower invisible partial dentures. Finally, a new set of upper immediate dentures were delivered on the same day as the extractions in order to prevent the patient from walking around without any teeth.

As with all dentures cases, we carefully analyzed her mouth, jaws, gum tissues, bite, face, lips, and balance of her head. A plan was made to provide the best possible fitting and looking dentures based on her individual profile.

The new dentures were fabricated through careful clinical and laboratory procedures in order to establish a new biting position and provide a pleasing, comfortable, and esthetic result. Notice the improvement in the lip smile and harmony between teeth and smile! Notice how you cannot see any metal clasps or unsightly metal bars. Notice how all of her facial features have improved.