Presenting Clinical Problem

A patient from the Glen Waverley area presented with advanced restorative needs and multiple oral health concerns.

• Terminal Dentition: The lower arch had only a few remaining teeth, all in a compromised condition.
• Partial Denture Failure: The existing lower partial denture no longer provided stability or comfort.
• Complete Upper Edentulism: The upper denture lacked optimal retention, reducing chewing efficiency.
• Functional Limitation: Difficulty chewing solid foods and reduced occlusal support.

The primary clinical objective was to restore lower arch stability with implant support and improve the fit of the upper denture to re-establish mastication, comfort, and long-term oral function.

Treatment Plan & Clinical Process

A carefully staged treatment plan was developed to provide immediate function, patient comfort, and sustainable restorative outcomes.

• Phase 1: Diagnostic & Planning
  Comprehensive diagnostics included cone-beam CT imaging and Digital Smile Design. These technologies allowed for accurate implant positioning and prosthetic planning, while also giving the patient a clear preview of expected outcomes.
• Phase 2: Surgical Implant Placement
  Four implants were strategically placed in the lower jaw to support a fixed All-on-X prosthesis. Within 48 hours, a provisional prosthesis was fitted, enabling the patient to regain function almost immediately after surgery.
• Phase 3: Upper Denture Replacement
  A new removable denture was designed for the upper arch. The denture was fabricated to fit more securely, ensuring greater retention and improved comfort when paired with the lower fixed restoration.
• Phase 4: Final Prosthesis Delivery
  After a three-month healing and osseointegration period, the definitive lower All-on-X prosthesis was placed. This restoration was customised to achieve long-term durability, precise occlusal balance, and a natural integration with the upper denture.

Clinical Outcome

The treatment plan successfully resolved the patient’s presenting issues and restored functional stability.

• The lower All-on-X prosthesis provided reliable occlusion and eliminated the need for a removable lower denture.
• The new upper denture offered improved retention and allowed for a more comfortable bite.
• Immediate provisional teeth ensured that function was maintained during the implant healing phase.
• The final prosthesis achieved a stable, aesthetic, and durable reconstruction suitable for long-term maintenance.

This case demonstrates the value of combining implant-retained prostheses with removable solutions for patients presenting with both complete and partial edentulism. The integration of advanced imaging and restorative planning supported a predictable, functional, and clinically stable outcome.