Here is another wonderful example of how we can restore both function and aesthetics to a person’s smile. This patient suffered from long term TMJ issues and managed as best she could with wearing bite splints and occasional medications. Her natural teeth had worn down so badly, she had lost several key elements of her bite that lead to joint dysfunction. Fortunately, with the aid of our 3D cone beam technology we were able to idealize her joint positions dramatically decreasing her pain, and designed a bite that worked in harmony with her joints. We created a proper function, beautiful aesthetics and ended her long-standing jaw pain. She couldn’t be happier (and neither could I).
I had the chance to help a young lady with her smile and I have to say I’m very proud of the results. This is only the first step, and there is still a lot to be done before we achieve full dental health, but she is moving forward (it took her 2 years before she could start). I’m so proud of her overcoming her fears and making this happen. Helping people smile confidently is the greatest reward in my profession. I love what I get to do each day!
Here is a patient that needed dental care and had put it off for a long time. I’m so proud that she finally overcame her fears and moved forward. I can’t show more than these two images, but I think this is enough to see how big of a transformation we made for her. She is in temporaries currently so we have a way to go before she is done, but we are off to a great start. If you notice how flat the area above her upper lip is, it’s that way because she hasn’t smiled for years and the muscles atrophied to the point where she no longer has the typical facial and lip shapes you normally see. When we do these photos and I ask people to smile they often say they don’t know how. I pray that she learns to again soon with her new smile and confidence. Stay tuned for the final photos.
I have known this patient for years, and fear has been her number one roadblock to treatment – any treatment. It takes her weeks and months to work up the courage to come into the office even for a basic cleaning. She is still a long way from being totally healthy and I really wish we could help her stop smoking, but we are making progress! She is making wise choices in her life and her improved smile is a big start for her. I pray she is able to find more comfort and peace, and her new smile might match the beautiful heart she has.
Once in a while, I come across a case that I can’t help but want to share. This is something we see often; there are so many patients like this, unfortunately. People are afraid to pursue comprehensive dentistry for fear of embarrassment or fear of costs or possible pain. This is a patient who when I look at these photos I see a story, a long story of neglect, but ultimately one of restoration. Someone that at one time didn’t want to smile because they disliked what they saw in the mirror or in photos. Can you imagine how hard that would be, how that would change your world? But they decided to make a change – a step to change their world by changing their smile. This person is now so proud to let those beautiful teeth shine! Can you imagine how that must feel? I absolutely love what I do. I can’t say that strongly enough. I love helping people, and to help someone regain a smile they are proud of is one of the best gifts a person can get. I can’t show anything more than these clinical photos, but trust me, this person is now smiling from ear to ear, and eating like she hasn’t in many years. I guess I just want people to know that no matter what your situation is, there is always hope and a chance to make a change.
