FROM JAW JOINT PAIN TO A HEALTHY SMILE
At the first examination of a patient who came to our clinic with pain in the jaw joint, a routine panoramic X-ray and a detailed intraoral examination were carried out. The assessments showed a functional disorder of the jaw joint and the chewing muscles.
HOW DID WE START?
Based on the examination findings, the underlying problem was a loss of vertical dimension caused by crowns that had been made too short in the past. In the treatment plan, the existing old crowns were first carefully removed and the teeth were prepared for the new restorations.
THE RIGHT PLAN, A NATURAL RESULT
To improve the aesthetic and functional success of the treatment, the mouth was digitally scanned in 3D and a personalised digital smile design was created. This design was transferred to temporary teeth, and the lost vertical dimension was restored in a controlled way. Throughout the process, the patient was called in for regular check-ups every two weeks.
TREATMENTS PERFORMED
- Implants
- 3D Digital Smile Design
- Vertical Dimension Rehabilitation
- Zirconia Crowns
Implant treatment was carried out in the areas with missing teeth to provide functional support. The adaptation of the jaw joint to the new vertical dimension, the adaptation of the muscles and the patient’s comfort were closely monitored. Once the vertical dimension had reached the ideal level, the temporary restorations were removed; new impressions were taken from the healed tissues and patient-specific zirconia restorations were produced.
RESULT
By the end of the follow-up, the jaw joint and the chewing muscles had regained healthy, pain-free function. With the zirconia crowns placed in the final stage, the patient can chew comfortably and has an aesthetic smile in the colour of their choice, natural-looking and in harmony with the facial features. This case shows that the combination of an accurate diagnosis, digital planning, regular follow-up and a multidisciplinary approach can achieve a successful result in both function and aesthetics.
Patient consent was obtained and personal data has been kept confidential.
