By Dr. Eric Wolfe
At Summit Smiles Dental, we have always prioritized the human aspect of care, ensuring every patient feels seen, heard and valued. This commitment becomes even more important when we work with patients undergoing significant dental transformations, such as fixed hybrid restorations. Recently, we had the opportunity to help a patient transform her smile and quality of life with a fixed hybrid denture. Her journey is a testament to the profound impact of this treatment.
Initial Consultation and Concerns
Our patient came to us with considerable dental issues: her teeth were poorly aligned, she had experienced significant bone loss, and her oral health had deteriorated over time. These factors caused both aesthetic concerns and functional challenges, impacting her ability to confidently chew, speak and smile.
During her consultation, we explored several potential treatment options, including traditional restorative methods such as crowns and individual implants. However, after discussing her case with our oral surgeon and reviewing her bone structure, we determined that a full-mouth restoration with a fixed hybrid denture would provide the best outcome. Our patient agreed with the recommendation, understanding that this approach would restore her smile and address her long-term functionality and health.
Understanding Fixed Hybrid Dentures
For those unfamiliar with fixed hybrid dentures, this solution differs significantly from traditional dentures. A conventional denture is typically made from acrylic and relies on the soft tissue for support. While it can improve the appearance of missing teeth, it often lacks stability and function, making it difficult for patients to bite, chew or speak comfortably.
A fixed hybrid denture, on the other hand, is anchored to four to six dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. These implants provide a strong, stable foundation for the denture, eliminating movement and allowing the patient to regain full function. Unlike traditional dentures, which are removable, fixed hybrid dentures stay securely in place, offering a natural feel and appearance.
The Transformation Begins
The first step in our patient’s transformation was creating a digital prototype of the fixed hybrid denture. This allowed her to see what her new smile would look like before treatment even began and provided us with a guide for the surgery. After the digital planning phase, we proceeded with the surgery, placing the implants and fitting a transitional denture.
Even with the temporary denture in place, the improvement was remarkable. The patient’s appearance changed dramatically, with a new, natural and bright smile. She immediately noticed how much easier it was to speak, eat and smile, and her confidence began to return.
The Final Result: A Permanent Solution
Once the implants had fully integrated with her bone, we transitioned her to the permanent fixed hybrid denture. The result was truly transformative. She described the teeth as feeling like her own, allowing her to eat comfortably, speak clearly and smile with ease. The stability of the denture gave her back the confidence she had lost, and the natural appearance of the teeth helped her feel like herself again.
This story is just one example of how fixed hybrid dentures can improve one’s smile and overall quality of life. At Summit Smiles Dental, we are honored to be a part of our patients’ transformational journeys.