When you need dental treatment that will rebuild or restore all of the teeth in the upper and lower jaw areas, you will be undergoing full mouth reconstruction. Also known as full mouth restoration or rehabilitation, the procedures and services performed in full mouth reconstruction can span several months and years. These procedures typically involve several dental specialists including periodontists, oral surgeons, orthodontists, endodontists, and general dentists because each specialist can address your very specific and unique needs.
Reasons to Undergo Full Mouth Reconstruction
There are a number of reasons why you might need to undergo full mouth reconstruction, including:
- Restoring missing teeth as a result of tooth decay, injury, trauma, or periodontal disease
- Replacing or restoring teeth that have been fractured
- Replacing teeth that have become severely worn down due to long term acid erosion or bruxism (tooth grinding)
- Improving the bite and overall functioning of the teeth and jaw related to any muscle, head, or jaw pain that you may be experiencing
Before You Undergo Full Mouth Reconstruction
Your dentist can perform a comprehensive dental exam to determine whether you are a good candidate for full mouth reconstruction. The exam will focus on:
- Condition of your teeth – Any cavities, decay, cracks, root canal issues, loose teeth, and short or long teeth will need to be addressed with procedures such as crowns, bridges, implants, inlays, onlays, or even veneers.
- Periodontal issues – If there is any indication of gum disease, you might need to visit a periodontist for gum disease treatment. If your gums are not in good health, a non-surgical scaling and root planing procedure or more intensive treatments such as periodontal surgery may be necessary. Your team of oral professionals will need to prepare your teeth and gums for the reconstruction phases.
- Temporomandibular joint functioning – Your dentist will determine the state of your bite and whether or not chewing and daily activities are interfering with the health of your teeth. Your occlusion (the way in which your teeth fit together) as well as the overall health of your jaw joints will need to be reviewed before undergoing any type of reconstructive procedure.
- Esthetics – Your dentist will take a closer look at the overall appearance of your teeth and evaluate their size and proportions. They will also evaluate how your teeth look in relation to your gums, lips, mouth, and overall facial structure.
Full Mouth Reconstruction Procedures
Since every case is unique, only qualified dental professionals can determine exactly which procedures you will need for full mouth reconstruction. Most procedures are performed in a series of phases and the entire treatment process can take up to 12 months or more. Procedures may include:
- Prophylactic teeth cleaning and periodontal treatment
- Crown lengthening
- Orthognathic surgery
- Gum tissue contouring
- Reduction of tooth structure
- Temporary restorations
- Permanent restorations such as crowns, veneers, inlays, onlays, and bridges
- Orthodontics
- Implants and/or anchor bridge restorations
- Bone or soft tissue grafting
Learn more about full mouth reconstruction by setting up a consultation with your doctor today!