Case Studies
from Contemporary Smiles in Corrimal
Initial Situation
This patient presented to Contemporary Smiles with the following complaints:
Unhappy with the look of the ceramic veneers that were placed elsewhere some years prior
Lack of a back bite due to loss of some of her molars leading to decreased chewing capacity and comfort
Chronic pain and discomfort in the temporomandibular joint due to a 100% overbite and lack of any back teeth touching
Recurrent decay and poorly contoured teeth around heavily restored back upper teeth
Significant resorption of bone where teeth had been lost in the back of the mouth.
The Treatment Plan
After careful consultation, Dr Barry Phelan, outlined in detail the challenges that needed to be overcome to correct the issues and give the patient a natural smile and functional, pain free bite.
Sequence of treatment
Treatment of decay and any periodontal issues
to correct the overbite and correct retroclination of the remaining teeth on the lower arch (Dr Guy Farland, Smileteam)
Placement of a combination of crowns or veneers on remaining upper teeth and a new crown on the an old implant in the upper right lateral incisor (Master Ceramist, Rob Dulieu).
Placement of an implant in the lower right to support a crown and a porcelain crown on the lower left back tooth to allow for good bite contact with their opposing teeth. Provision of a stable back bite utilising a shortened dental arch concept due to difficulty in placing any further implants due to lack of bone.
Provision of an occlusal mouthguard to be worn while sleeping.
Regular appointments with our therapist to maintain the health of the periodontal tissues.
The Outcome
The patient was happy with the final outcome. She smiles with confidence, can chew easily and no longer has pain in her joint.
BOOK IN FOR A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
Book in for a FREE consultation with one of our dentists at our Corrimal Dental Clinic.Why choose Contemporary Smiles Dental?
At our practice in Corrimal, patients have access to a comprehensive range of dental treatments. We strive to provide state-of-the-art procedures, including dental implants, orthodontics, hygiene, cosmetic, and unique/bespoke services. Our team of highly skilled and experienced dentists works together to ensure our patients receive the care they need all in one place, without the need for referral to another clinic.
Why do regular dental visits matter?
The importance of routine dental check-ups lies in their ability to detect oral health issues at an early stage, making treatment simpler and more cost-effective. Preventive measures can also be taken to avoid the onset of oral problems. Additionally, certain diseases or medical conditions may manifest symptoms in the mouth, making regular visits to the dentist crucial.
How often do I have to go to the dentist?
Dental treatment is tailored to the individual, as every person's oral health needs are unique. The frequency of dental visits may vary, with some requiring only one or two visits a year, while others may require more. Your smile is unique, and your dental care should reflect that.
What should I look for when choosing a dentist?
It's advisable to consult multiple dentists before making a decision. Dental care is a personal service that relies on a strong relationship between dentist and patient. During your initial visit, you should be able to assess if the dentist is a good fit for you.
What are the early signs and symptoms of mouth cancer?
Mouth cancer can occur in various parts of the mouth including the lips, tongue and the throat. Sadly, mouth cancer has a high mortality rate due to late detection. However, there is hope as precancerous conditions can develop well before cancer and if detected early, can be effectively treated with a high chance of prevention or cure. Some common early signs of mouth cancer include:
- An ulcer or sore throat lasting more than three weeks.
- A white or red patch on the soft tissue, gums, tongue, or inner mouth.
- Chronic sore throat or hoarse voice for over six weeks.
- Difficulty swallowing or feeling of something stuck in the throat.
- Neck swelling lasting more than three weeks.
- Numbness of the tongue or other mouth area.
Is bad breath a sign of gum disease?
Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth can be a warning sign of gum disease and other oral issues, making it important to identify the cause. If you are experiencing persistent bad breath, schedule a visit with your dentist. Regular check-ups enable them to detect any underlying problems, as your bad breath may indicate a medical condition. If your dentist finds no oral health issues, they may refer you to a primary care physician.
Should I have my wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth removal is not always necessary, but in certain situations, their arrival can cause discomfort, swelling, or infection. The most frequent issue we encounter is the lack of sufficient space for the wisdom teeth to emerge, leading to the recommendation of extraction for impacted wisdom teeth.
How long will my implants last?
Your new teeth's lifespan depends on the quality of care you provide after the implant area has fully healed (typically 3-6 months) and the crowns have been properly fitted. Proper care, such as you would give to natural teeth, will ensure the longevity of your implants and they can last a lifetime.
How can you get in touch with us?
If you're located in the Illawarra and seeking any dental treatments, we welcome you to contact us for a consultation. We'd be happy to discuss your options with you.