A Smile Transformed – Full Arch Zirconia Prosthesis

Situation: The patient was dissatisfied with the function and appearance of his maxillary denture (Figure 1). Treatment options were presented, and an implant supported fixed prosthesis was chosen to improve chewing function and comfort. Significant bone resorption in the maxillary arch required autogenous grafting before implant placement to develop the necessary bone volume to place the implants.

Figure 1 Patients’ existing maxillary denture

After a healing period during which the implants integrated with the surrounding bone, implant-level impressions were taken to capture the position of the implants relative to the adjacent anatomy and opposing dentition (Figures 2,3,4).

Figure 2 Healing abutments prior to removal for implant level impression

Figure 3 Healing abutments removed and impression copings attached

Figure 4 Radiograph of fully seated impression copings

Implant Restorative Laboratory poured the diagnostic casts from these impressions, articulated them and collaborated with the dental office on the design of the provisional prosthesis to improve the contours and lip support as well as the esthetics before beginning work on the definitive prosthesis (Figures 5,6,7).

Figure 5 Occlusal view

Figure 6 CAD/CAM proposal view from the facial aspect

Figure 6 Proposal with gingival shading

The final prosthesis was an implant-supported monolithic zirconia bridge chosen for its excellent esthetics and strong resistance to the staining and chipping that are often problematic for acrylic dentures (Figures 7,8,9).

Figure 7 Final zirconia restoration occlusal/facial view

Figure 8 Final zirconia restoration lingual view

Figure 9 Happy patient with the final zirconia prosthesis

Full arch zirconia bridges are highly biocompatible and lifelike in appearance with a very precise fit made possible by CAD/CAM technology and advanced materials. The patient was very happy with the result.