Patient Background
The patient presented to our practice dissatisfied with multiple previous dental procedures and experiencing ongoing pain. Significant tooth wear was noted due to acid reflux and bruxism (teeth grinding). Additionally, the patient was unhappy with the overall appearance of her teeth.
Clinical Procedure
The multidisciplinary treatment approach included:
- Endodontic Treatments: Several root canal treatments performed by Dr. Christo van Rensburg to address underlying dental issues.
- Dental Implants: Placement of dental implants by maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Yusuf Suleman to replace missing teeth.
- Bite Adjustment and Gum Treatment: The bite was carefully adjusted, and laser gum treatment was performed to improve the aesthetic ratio of the upper front teeth.
- One-Day Veneers: Porcelain veneers were applied to the front teeth in a single day. Minimal tooth structure was removed to reduce post-operative pain and enhance the longevity of the restorations.
- Lower Teeth Restoration: The lower teeth were restored using only white fillings without the need for injections or drilling. Porcelain restorations may be considered in the future if necessary.
The clinical work, crown design, and manufacturing were expertly carried out by Dr. du Plessis.
Outcome
This comprehensive treatment successfully addressed both functional and aesthetic concerns:
- The patient experienced improved comfort due to pain relief and bite correction.
- Aesthetic improvements were achieved with a minimally invasive approach, preserving natural tooth structure.
- The patient’s smile was transformed with durable and visually pleasing restorations.
Summary
This case demonstrates the effective synergy of endodontic, surgical, and restorative dental disciplines, combined with advanced technology and conservative techniques, to achieve a successful smile rehabilitation tailored to the patient’s needs.
