A Journey toward Immediate Denture: Overcoming Bitter Reality with Psychotherapy

Area of Science:

• Periodontology
• Psychology
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Aggressive periodontitis leads to premature tooth loss, impacting aesthetics, function, and psychological well-being.
• Tooth loss in younger individuals causes significant distress, affecting overall quality of life.

Observation:

• A 42-year-old male patient with aggressive periodontitis experienced considerable psychological distress due to impending tooth loss and replacement.
• The SPIKES protocol was systematically adopted to provide psychological intervention.

Findings:

• Psychotherapeutic interventions, when combined with prosthodontic procedures, can enhance patient acceptance of prognosis and treatment.
• Systematic psychological support is crucial for managing the distress associated with aggressive periodontitis and tooth loss.

Implications:

• Integrating psychological support into dental treatment plans can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
• The SPIKES protocol offers a structured approach for delivering effective psychological interventions in dental settings.
• This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing complex dental conditions with significant psychosocial components.