Pain Relief
Just a Smile Away
Continued Page 4

Three months later, the lower acrylic/gold tissue integrated prosthesis was delivered. Two months following the lower delivery, the upper porcelain/gold fixed teeth were inserted. A bite guard was also constructed to protect the new smile.

Using acrylic to oppose the maxillary porcelain reduces porcelain fracture when the teeth are rigidly connected, allowing the wear to be reduced to one arch only. This is a great financial factor in the long-term maintenance of the reconstruction, since the acrylic teeth in the lower prosthesis will wear over time but can be easily rebuilt.

The outcome of Lori's dental reconstruction using the TIAD protocol was more far reaching than just relieving her pain and giving her back the ability to chew and smile. The friend who recommended that she see her prosthodontist said that Lori became a different person, evidenced by her new social life. Lori said that she became more outgoing and socially involved. She no longer had to cover her mouth when talking. She smiled more and realized that her energy levels increased. She said that she hadn't realized how much her dental conditions had adversely affected her life. She is no longer hesitant to be in front of groups of people and is now doing her student teaching. In her parting comments she said, "my personality is back." You can see this yourself in the sparkle in her eyes and the glow of her smile.

Mandibular tissue integrated prosthesis

Maxillary conversion prosthesis

Maxillary casting try-in

Pre-operative panoramic radiograph

Post-operative panoramic radiograph

Acknowledgements:
Fort Washington Dental Lab, Inc.
Bob Winkelman, CDT, MDT
Michael Kostrycky, CDT