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nmdental.org
By Michael W. Davis, DDS
T
here is no such thing, as a “typical” Peer Review case.
The following cases were real events, with real patients,
and real New Mexico dentists.
Case 1
The patient’s chief complaint was his ill-fitting dentures,
recently fabricated by a New Mexico dentist. Upon interview
with the patient, patient dissatisfaction was specifically limited
to his mandibular denture. He was pleased with his maxillary
denture.
Upon review of the treating doctor’s records, there was exten-
sive notation of informed consent being given by patient,
and consultation relating to implant retained and implant
supported prosthetic options. The patient declined these more
favorable options.
Examination of the patient’s dentures demonstrated a well-
sealed post dam area, adequate coverage of tuberosities and
retro-molar pads, proper flange extension, a repeatable centric
occlusion, and esthetic tooth position inclusive of midlines.
Review of radiographs confirmed no contributing pathologies.
In short, the patient received the service of a first class set of
complete denture prosthetics.
However, the patient complained, “I simply can’t eat with these
lower teeth”. The patient was asked, if he was advised by Dr. X,
of the problematic nature of accommodation to lower dentures.
(Patient records of Dr. X were very clear in his patient consul-
tation, of the problematic nature of a mandibular denture,
especially without implant support or retention.) The patient
confirmed his prior consultation and advice, from Dr. X
relating to the difficulties of mandibular complete dentures.
He simply didn’t believe Dr. X because a friend wore a complete
lower denture, “and he didn’t have any difficulties”. “I just
thought Dr. X was attempting to up-sell me on unnecessary
and more costly treatments.”
The patient was advised that Dr. X provided a superlative
denture service. He was further advised to contact Dr. X for
dental implant services, to better enhance his denture wearing
experience. The patient was pleased and reassured that Dr. X
always had his patients’ best interests to the fore.
Beer
Looking for
Champagne
continues
Report from NMDA Peer Review