Lena first visited our office during a time in her life when she was ready for change. She wanted to feel healthy again, smile without hesitation, and finally break free from the cycle of dental problems that had followed her since childhood. From the moment she walked through our doors, we could see how much this meant to her. We took the time to listen, understand her story, and help her find a path that would support her long-term health and confidence.
How Did Lena Transform Her Smile at iHeart Dental?
Lena came to us with a clear hope. She wanted a smile that would allow her to feel comfortable, confident, and at peace. Years of failed dental treatments had left her feeling discouraged. She had tried so hard to keep her natural teeth, but each repair seemed to lead to another problem. After learning more about her dental history, overall health, and what she wanted for her future, we created a plan that would finally give her the stability she deserved.
Before
After
What Was Lena Experiencing Before Her Treatment?
Before beginning her transformation, Lena was dealing with a combination of challenges that made it difficult for her to feel healthy or confident. She had several decalcified and broken teeth, ongoing decay, and a few root canals that were failing. Her gums were sensitive and easily irritated. She also experienced dry mouth, which made everyday tasks uncomfortable and increased her risk for more dental issues.
On top of the physical concerns, Lena shared how emotionally draining it had been to try so hard and still feel like her smile was slipping away. She was tired, overwhelmed, and ready for a real solution. We made sure she felt heard and supported every step of the way.
What Treatment Options Were Presented to Lena?
When planning her care, we walked Lena through two possible treatment paths so she could make a decision that matched her goals and lifestyle.
Option 1: Restoring the Remaining Teeth With Crowns and Implants
Benefits:
• Allowed her to keep most of her remaining teeth
• Gave her an opportunity to rebuild her oral health through improved hygiene and habits
Challenges:
• Her high decay rate made future breakdown likely
• Dry mouth increased the risk of failed restorations
• She had already experienced years of repeated dental work that did not last
Option 2: Full-Arch Restoration With Implant-Supported Bridges
Benefits:
• Implants do not decay and offer long-term stability
• Consistent results for patients with dry mouth or a history of dental failures
• Provided a complete, fresh start for her smile
Both options were similar financially, so she was able to choose the one that truly matched her needs.
Why Did Lena Choose Full-Arch Restoration?
After years of trying to save teeth that continued to break down, Lena was ready for something dependable. Full-arch restoration would give her a strong, healthy foundation and the long-term stability she had always wanted. Knowing that implants do not decay and are designed to last helped her feel confident in her choice.
How Did the Digital Planning Process Shape Her New Smile?
A major part of Lena’s success came from the level of planning that happened before her surgery. We used CBCT scans, digital photos, and 3D impressions to guide every step. With digital design software, we created a blueprint for her smile that showed how her new teeth would look and function.
This allowed us to design a natural, comfortable smile that fit her facial features. The computer-guided planning also helped make her implant placement more accurate, predictable, and efficient.
What Happens During a Full-Arch Dental Implant Surgery?
On the day of her procedure, Lena was kept comfortable with sedation. Using the digital guides created during her planning phase, we placed six titanium implants in her jawbone. Once these were secure, we attached a temporary PMMA bridge that had been custom-designed ahead of time.
When Lena woke up, she no longer had to worry about broken or painful teeth. She had a secure, natural-looking temporary smile that allowed her to eat, speak, and feel confident as she healed.
What Was Lena’s Recovery Process Like?
Healing after full-arch surgery looks a little different for everyone. Lena experienced mild swelling and pressure at first, which is common, but she handled the process with patience and dedication. She followed her soft-food diet, kept her implants clean, and attended her check-ins. These steps helped her implants heal properly over the course of several months.
Her commitment during this stage played a big part in her successful outcome. By trusting the process and taking care of herself, she set the foundation for the beautiful results she has today.
What Is a Trial Smile and Why Is It Important?
Now that her implants have healed, Lena is ready to begin her trial smile. This is the stage where we adjust the shape, size, and alignment of her new teeth based on her comfort and preferences. The trial smile allows us to refine every detail before creating her final restoration.
Lena is also 4 months pregnant and has chosen to finish the upper restoration and begin the lower restoration after the baby is born. This keeps her comfortable and allows her to focus on her health during pregnancy, which is most important for her baby.
How Has Lena’s Smile Transformation Changed Her Life?
Today, Lena’s life looks very different from the day we first met her. She has embraced healthier habits, improved her oral hygiene, and feels more comfortable eating and smiling. The confidence she carries now is noticeable. She laughs freely, speaks without hesitation, and has a sense of calm she had been missing for a long time.
Her transformation has been both physical and emotional. As she prepares to welcome her baby, she also celebrates a new chapter in her own life. She feels strong, capable, and proud of the steps she has taken.
Results That Speak for Themselves
Before
After
What Can Other Patients Learn From Lena’s Experience?
Lena’s journey is a reminder that every patient deserves a smile that helps them feel confident and healthy. Her story shows the importance of open communication, trust, and patience. It also highlights how life-changing it can be to choose a solution that supports your long-term well-being.
Ready to Begin Your Own Smile Transformation?
If Lena’s story resonates with you, we would be honored to help you begin your own transformation. At iHeart Dental in Rincon, Georgia, we combine advanced technology with heartfelt care to support you at every step. Whether you are facing long-term dental challenges or simply want a healthier smile, we are here to guide you toward a future you can feel proud of.
Misty M. Seale, DMD
Dr. Misty M. Seale, DMD, a graduate of the Medical College of Georgia, specializes in general, preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry and is the proud owner of iHeart Dental. Her practice emphasizes comfort, convenience, and personalized patient care, providing a cozy environment that feels like a home away from home. Outside of her passion for dentistry, Dr. Seale enjoys spending time with her family, camping, and Jeeping.
A Smile is the Key to Everybody’s Heart
We are dedicated to providing the highest-level dental care in a comfortable and relaxed setting while giving love, compassion, and respect for our patients and their dental needs leading to a healthier smile.