New Study Club Module: Optimizing the Outcome in the Transition to Edentulism

Transition to total edentulism should only be considered when the patient is fully informed of all variables and consequences that affect the value of treatment. But how does a clinician start a dialogue with a patient who comes to the practice expecting a quick fix for a minor issue but unknowingly presents with complex problems?

Spear Resident Faculty member Dr. Doug Benting addresses this key issue in a new Study Club module titled “Optimizing Outcomes While Transitioning to Edentulism.”

“You must know how to identify clinical and behavioral challenges to your restorative plan and then address variations in technique to assist a patient in the transition to edentulism with an approach that builds toward an intended outcome,” said Dr. Benting, a Phoenix-based prosthodontist.

The new module also explains how to take impressions with an intraoral scanner, silicone, or with using a sectional technique, and how to communicate with labs and specialists.

“Plus, when a clinical situation presents a completely dentate patient, the mutual effort between the doctor, the interdisciplinary team, and the patient leads to a more predictable and pleasant outcome for everyone involved,” Dr. Benting added.

Module learning objectives include:

• Identify points of discussion through the process that are important to provide a clear focus on the outcome.
• Identify impression materials and techniques that can assist in a variety of terminal dentition presentations.
• Discuss a process to gather the information required of a wax trial denture when a patient maintains teeth not in the ideal position.
• Identify key points of discussion with the surgeon, as well as the laboratory technician, to obtain a successful outcome.