Patient Snapshot
Patient: Male, 85; lifelong professional musician (wind instrument)
Concern: Severe decay in maxillary anterior teeth; urgent need to preserve embouchure and articulation
Background & Performance Requirements
For wind and brass players, front-tooth incisal edge position, overjet, and guidance are essential. Even tiny changes can alter air flow, lip seal, and sound production. The patient’s goal was clear: treat the infection and rebuild the teeth without changing how he plays.
Exam & Diagnosis
Radiographs and vitality testing confirmed deep decay and pulpal involvement on several upper anterior teeth. Surrounding tissues were healthy, and periodontal support was adequate for crowns.
Treatment Objectives
Remove infection and preserve tooth structure
Replicate the original tooth contours with micrometric accuracy
Protect phonetics (“F” and “V” sounds) and the musician’s embouchure
Phased Treatment Plan
Phase 1: Endodontics (Weeks 0–2)
Root canal therapy on affected teeth to eliminate infection and pain
Fiber posts are considered on a case-by-case basis for reinforcement
Phase 2: Aesthetic-Functional Provisionals (Weeks 2–6)
Provisional crowns are shaped to match the original tooth length, width, and angle
In-chair adjustments with the instrument present to fine-tune the air seal and comfort
Phonetic testing of sibilants and fricatives to lock in incisal edge position
Phase 3: Final Crowns (Weeks 6–10)
High-fidelity impressions and shade mapping
Ceramist briefed with photos, facebow data, and performance notes
Delivery with slow, careful occlusal refinement and articulating paper checks while the patient played softly
Results
Pain eliminated; infection resolved
Crowns matched his original contours so closely that performance was unaffected
Natural aesthetics restored for the stage and everyday life
The patient resumed rehearsals immediately and reports zero adaptation time
Why It Worked
We treated this not just as a dental case but as an occupational performance case. Respecting the patient’s original tooth positions and testing with his instrument ensured seamless continuity.
Key Takeaways
Front-tooth restorations demand attention to phonetics and function, not just color.
For performers, mock-up trials and real-world testing are priceless.
Related Services
Root Canal Therapy • Porcelain Crowns • Smile Design • Complex Rehab
Call to Action
Do you rely on your teeth for your craft? In Deerfield, our team designs restorations that respect how you live, speak, and perform.
