Rethinking Severe Maxillary Atrophy with a Digital “Teeth First” Approach

Article from Israel

Digital Dentistry and a New Approach to Severe Maxillary Atrophy

When severe maxillary atrophy leads to an acquired Class III relationship, restoring function, esthetics, and implant stability can become exceptionally complex. In this submitted chapter excerpt, Dr. Devorah Schwartz-Arad explores a digitally driven treatment concept designed to address one of the more challenging scenarios in oral and maxillofacial rehabilitation.

The featured approach, described as “Teeth First, Le Fort I Second,” begins with augmentation, implant placement, and provisional prosthetic positioning before orthognathic advancement of the maxilla. By establishing restorative reference points first, clinicians may improve planning precision, facial support, and long-term functional outcomes.

The chapter also highlights the expanding role of CBCT imaging, facial scanning, guided surgery, and virtual planning in managing advanced dentofacial deformities and edentulous maxillary cases.

Clinical Perspective

• Reframes treatment sequencing for severe edentulous maxillary atrophy

• Integrates prosthetic planning with orthognathic correction

• Demonstrates the value of digital tools in complex reconstruction

• Balances facial esthetics with functional rehabilitation

Editorial note: This introduction was prepared with AI assistance using materials submitted by the author and finalized through editorial review.

Read the Full Chapter Submission

Digital Dentistry: Science and Clinics

Submitted chapter by Dr. Devorah Schwartz-Arad

f-0-19-23860111_YIQNEjJv_07_Chapter_Book_Digital_Dentistry.pdf

Download PDF • 1.21MB

Details on Prior Publication:

Schwartz-Arad D. Chapter 7. In: Manganco C,

Lerner H, Mouhyi J, Luongo G, editors.

Digital Dentistry: Science and Clinics. Lugano,

Switzerland: Digital Dentistry Society; 2021.