Dental Case Analysis – Upper Denture Attachment or Screw Exposure

Case Overview

This intra-oral image shows the upper arch with a visible small metallic component located on the palatal side, indicated by an arrow. The appearance is consistent with a denture or implant-retained prosthesis attachment, such as a screw head or retention component, that may be exposed, loosened, or improperly seated.

Scale All Teeth

• Upper anterior teeth visible

• Teeth appear aligned and intact

• Prosthetic appliance present

• Primary concern is prosthetic hardware, not natural tooth structure

Full Analysis and Diagnosis

Clinical Findings

• Small metallic component visible on the palate

• Located beneath a removable or fixed prosthesis

• Surrounding soft tissue appears mildly irritated

• No obvious bleeding or ulceration in this image

Interpretation

• Finding is suggestive of a loose denture screw or exposed attachment

• May be associated with:

  • Implant-retained denture

  • Fixed hybrid prosthesis

  • Temporary prosthetic component

• Exposure may indicate prosthesis movement or incomplete seating

Probable Diagnosis

• Prosthetic attachment exposure

• Possible loosening of denture or implant screw

• Soft-tissue irritation secondary to hardware contact

(Clinical confirmation required.)

Deep Examination

Prosthetic Assessment

• Check stability of denture or fixed prosthesis

• Assess screw torque and seating

• Inspect for prosthetic wear or fracture

• Evaluate fit against soft tissue

Soft Tissue Assessment

• Mild irritation possible at contact point

• Risk of ulceration if friction continues

• No signs of acute infection visible

Time Frame to Heal

With Proper Adjustment

• Immediate comfort improvement: 1–3 days

• Soft tissue recovery: 5–10 days

• Full stabilization after adjustment: within 1 week

Without Intervention

• Progressive gum irritation

• Ulcer formation

• Increased risk of infection

• Prosthesis instability

• Possible damage to implant components

Process to Execute (14-Day Window)

Days 1–3

• Clinical evaluation of prosthesis

• Confirm type of attachment

• Tighten or reposition screw if needed

Days 4–7

• Adjust prosthetic fit

• Smooth or cover exposed hardware

• Monitor soft tissue response

Days 8–14

• Follow-up check

• Confirm comfort and stability

• Long-term maintenance planning

Issues That Will Scale Up If Untreated

• Chronic gum irritation

• Soft tissue ulceration

• Prosthesis loosening

• Implant component damage

• Increased repair costs

• Possible implant failure in severe cases

Clinical Comments

Exposed or loose prosthetic components should be addressed promptly. While not always painful initially, continued friction can lead to soft tissue injury and prosthetic failure. Early adjustment usually resolves the issue quickly.

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