Immediate Dental Implants for Anterior Tooth Replacement in Older Patients
Inside Dentistry provides the latest in endodontics, implantology, periodontics, and more, with in-depth articles, expert videos, and top industry insights.
February 1, 2023
Volume 19, Issue 2, February 2023
Page(s): p. 34
Jeffrey Lineberry, DDS
Despite the significant advancement of dental restorative procedures, tooth loss still occurs for a variety of reasons within our patient populations. The natural process of aging is one of many factors that has an impact on overall tooth loss, both directly and indirectly. When older patients are faced with tooth loss, one of the many questions and considerations involved is whether or not to replace the lost tooth, and if it is to be replaced, what treatment approach will be used to replace it. Nowadays, patients are living longer and staying healthier well into their eighties, and they are demanding esthetic, fixed restorative solutions.
A 78-year-old female patient presented to the practice for an emergency visit because her left lateral incisor (tooth No. 10) had fractured at the gumline. She reported that she was "simply biting into a sandwich when her tooth broke off." The patient had a long history of consistent dental care throughout her life, and more than 30 years ago, tooth No. 10 had been previously restored with a root canal treatment, post and core buildup, and a porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown. Upon examination, it was noted that tooth No. 10 was fractured with no coronal tooth structure left and that a vertical root fracture was present. The tooth was deemed non-restorable. Treatment options were presented to the patient, and the risks and benefits of an implant-supported restoration versus a fixed partial bridge were discussed. If possible, the patient decided that she would like an implant placed. Her fractured PFM with its intact post and core was temporarily re-cemented that day and the patient was appointed to return for records.
Jeffrey Lineberry, DDS
Fellow
Academy of General Dentistry
Fellow
International Congress of Oral Implantologists
Accredited Member
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
Private Practice
Mooresville, North Carolina
