Abstract
In patients with mandibular molar defects, implant therapy has increasingly been performed because of the discomfort of dentures and the occlusion load on residual teeth.
We performed implant therapy in a patient with mandibular unilateral free-end defects and obtained good results.
Patient: A 59-year-old male visited our hospital, requesting prosthetic therapy for mandibular defects on August 5, 2000. At the first consultation, there were defects in several maxillary and mandibular teeth, suggesting occlusal disintegration. In the residual teeth, chronic periodontitis in the entire jaw and caries in several teeth were observed. In addition, bruxo-facets suggesting bruxism were noted.
Treatment: Initial stage periodontal therapy was performed in parallel to splint therapy for the control of bruxism. After assessment, implants were placed in the mandibular molar defects. After a healing period of about 6 months, secondary operation was performed, and occlusal stability was attempted using a provisional prosthesis, which was followed by the final prosthesis.
The final prosthetic therapy for the defects was performed using a partial denture consisting of cast clasps and magnetic attachments in the maxilla and using implants in the mandible.
For spaces in the anterior teeth area, the course was observed because he did not desire treatment.
Results: Occlusal stability could be achieved, patient's discomfort was reduced, and functionally satisfactory results were obtained.
