Hybrid Prosthesis and Dental Implants: The Solution for Missing Teeth

Staying ahead of the swift changes in computer technology presents a considerable challenge, but Paul Van Cott, a software engineer, managed to do just that, positioning himself at the forefront of a monumental industry revolution.

"I began my career in 1979 as a programmer for large mainframe computers," Paul recalls. "But by the '90s, I witnessed the rapid advancement of technology, so I adapted by training myself to develop and code programs for webpages. This was during the internet-based programming evolution, and I kept pace with the evolving technology."

For two decades, the New Jersey native continued to craft software programs tailored for the internet. Now, at 68 years old and semi-retired, he concludes his career as a database engineer for the federal government.

"Over the past seven years, I've been engaged in government contract work," Paul shares. "Primarily focusing on biometric facial recognition to aid in identifying individuals crossing our borders."

In June 2022, Paul transitioned to remote work, relocating from Virginia to Florida in preparation for full retirement. Aware that his dental benefits would expire upon retirement, Paul opted to enhance his smile before losing those benefits.

"I've always had dental issues and never felt confident about my smile," he reveals. "I relied on a full denture for my upper teeth and a partial one for the lower. I felt it was time for a smile upgrade. Following my family's recommendation, I consulted with Dr. Aljonaidy."

Dr. Huda Aljonaidy, DDS, founder of Blossom Dental and Facial Aesthetics in Ormond Beach, conducts comprehensive dentistry services. Upon examining Paul, Dr. Aljonaidy determined that he required more than a mere smile enhancement.

"When Mr. Van Cott approached us, he had lost all his upper teeth and wore a removable denture," explains the doctor. "His remaining lower teeth were not salvageable and needed extraction.

"I proposed replacing his missing teeth with a hybrid prosthesis, a denture fixed onto dental implants. He understood that dental implants offer superior functionality compared to removable prostheses.

"Moreover, the teeth in the hybrid prosthesis are crafted from aesthetically pleasing material, aligning with Mr. Van Cott's desire for both function and appearance."

Dental implants, resembling root-shaped screws, are surgically implanted into the jawbone, where new bone naturally envelops them, forming a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth.

Dr. Aljonaidy faces the challenge of precise implant placement to mimic tooth roots. At Blossom Dental and Facial Aesthetics, robotic technology aids in this precise placement.

"The robotic system comprises two arms," Dr. Aljonaidy explains. "One attaches to the patient to determine mouth location, while the other, operated by the surgeon, guides implant placement based on pre-set surgical parameters.

"Using this technology, I can conduct implant surgery without incisions, expediting healing. The robot directs me precisely to the implant sites, eliminating concerns about sinus interference or nerve damage."

With Paul, the robot's assistance spared him additional procedures typically required before implant placement, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts.

"Despite minimal bone density, the robot enabled precise implant placement in the strongest jawbone areas, saving months of healing time," Dr. Aljonaidy reports.

Paul initially had reservations about the robotic implant procedure but found reassurance in Dr. Aljonaidy's expertise and control.

"Dr. Aljonaidy's explanation allayed my fears," Paul remarks. "I imagined a futuristic robot scenario, but her assurance that she retained complete control eased my concerns."

Dr. Aljonaidy inserted 12 implants in Paul's jaw, evenly distributed for bite force balance, across two sessions to prevent discomfort.

"After the second session, Paul experienced minimal gum swelling or soreness, which surprised him," notes Dr. Aljonaidy. "Providing him with temporary teeth on the upper arch and a prosthetic on the lower allowed for uninterrupted healing."

Paul awaits the next phase of his lower arch restoration, involving remaining teeth extraction and implant placement.

"I prefer a six-month healing period before fitting final prosthetics," Dr. Aljonaidy explains. "The difference between Paul's temporary and final prosthetics lies in the material: zirconia, known for durability and aesthetics."

Delighted with his temporary teeth, Paul anticipates the final upper prosthesis, designed for comfort and taste restoration.

"The implant approach restores taste sensation lost with traditional dentures," Paul asserts. "And the appearance of my teeth? Remarkable. I smile more now."

Paul praises Dr. Aljonaidy's talent and her practice's efficiency, emphasizing her patient-centered approach and exceptional staff.

Also read this article on "I found my Doctor" here.