Know Your Options: Which Procedure Is Best for Completing a Full Mouth Reconstruction?

Full mouth reconstruction takes its name from the process of simultaneously rebuilding or restoring all teeth in the upper and lower jaws. A patient’s need for full mouth reconstruction may result from many dental problems, including:

• Tooth or teeth loss due to decay or trauma
• Worn teeth as a result of teeth grinding or long-term acid erosion
• Recurrent jaw and muscle pain, which require adjustments to the bite (occlusion)
• Injured or broken teeth

Conversely, research shows that tooth loss has an apparent link to physical and mental decline in adults aged 60 and over. A full mouth dental reconstruction may help prevent such issues, and overall restore the functionality and beauty of teeth.

What Procedures Complete a Full Mouth Reconstruction?

No two full mouth dental reconstruction procedures are the same. Treatments differ from patient to patient, depending on their needs and preferences for functionality and aesthetics.

A dental patient interested in a full mouth restoration procedure may consider getting:

1. Dental Implants

Dental implants are the most permanent method for a full mouth restoration. It requires a titanium “root” in which a dentist will set in the jawbone, then tooth-looking crowns are placed over the implants to restore the aesthetics. Since dental implants use titanium rods to “root” into the jawbone, they also reinstate a significant amount of functionality. As a result, a patient can continue to eat his or her favorite foods without restriction.

With a full mouth dental reconstruction, attaching as few as four dental implants (Teeth In 1 Day) on the upper or lower arches of crowns can recover both the teeth’s functionality and aesthetic appearance. Implants are also a superior option because they help prevent bone resorption (decline in the condition of the jawbone).

2. Dentures

Dentures are full arches of upper and lower artificial teeth. They are a less expensive option than dental implants and are often removable. Most patients adapt well to traditional upper dentures because of the suction between the palate and denture base. Lower dentures, on the other hand, might require a specialized dental adhesive to prevent any slipping and sliding.

While dentures continue to be a popular full mouth dental restoration option, they do come with a few disadvantages. First, since they are detachable, they may move while talking, smiling, or eating. Second, dentures can contribute to bone resorption.

3. Veneers

For some dental patients in California, only the front of their teeth needs improvement or restoration. Porcelain veneers may be an option, which dentists place over discolored or misaligned teeth. These man-made “shells” cover the front of the teeth and often match a patient’s natural teeth color perfectly.

4. Crowns

Dental crowns are a well-known option for restoring a natural tooth crown damaged by decay or fracture. With crowns, a prosthodontist (specializing in tooth loss or jaw problems) will reshape the tooth or teeth in order for the crown to fit over it. Then, he or she will take an impression of the tooth for the permanent crown, and place a temporary crown over the tooth. Once a dentist constructs the permanent crown, it will be inserted to replace the appearance and function of a decayed or broken tooth.

5. Bridges

Dental bridges may be the ideal dental reconstruction option for patients with gaps of missing teeth. These sets of three or more connecting crowns are either placed over existing teeth or used to fill in gaps left by any missing teeth. The result is a picture-perfect smile anyone would be proud to show off.

What If I Need More Help Deciding Which Procedure Is Best?

If you think a full mouth reconstruction can resolve your dental woes, see your dentist for a comprehensive examination. He or she will check the extent of the problem and determine the appropriate treatment option for you. Specifically, your dental specialist will examine your:

• Teeth: The condition of your teeth will decide which corrective procedure may be appropriate. Your dentist will take note of cavities and decay, cracks and fractures, short and long teeth, root canal problems, and any tooth movement.
• Gums: Your dentist will review your mouth for excessive or insufficient gum tissue, deep pockets, periodontal disease, and bone density anomalies. If your gums show any signs of unhealthiness, you may need conventional periodontal therapy (scaling and root planing) to treat gum disease.
• Jawbone structure: A bite in which you do not feel pain or discomfort when you move or open and close your mouth, as well as does not cause wear or destruction of your teeth contributes to your overall oral health. Occlusal changes will be taken into consideration when your dentist plans your restorations. Further, you may require orthodontics (night guard or bite reprogramming orthotic) to correct occlusion before getting additional restorative procedures.
• Natural aesthetics: The shape, color, size, and proportion of your teeth, including how they appear in relation to your mouth, lips, gums, side profile, and face, are also significant factors in completing a full mouth reconstruction.

The examination process will include collecting detailed views of your mouth using X-rays and photographs. Once your dentist gathers all the information relevant to your case, he or she will create a comprehensive treatment plan to correct every issue in your mouth and complete your reconstruction.

When Should I Consider a Full Mouth Reconstruction?

Some residents in CA, most especially seniors, suffer from significant tooth loss over the years. This dental issue may be due to rotten teeth that required immediate extraction, misaligned teeth, or periodontal disease (most prevalent cause of tooth loss among adults). If you experience any of these unfortunate dental problems, it might be time to consider a full mouth dental restoration.

Contact 24/7 Local Dentist to Learn More

Knowing what to expect before any procedure can help alleviate fears of the unknown. If you are considering full mouth reconstruction in California, schedule a FREE consultation by calling (833) 220-2448. You may also schedule an exam online. Dr. Ronald Cunning and his team would be more than happy to answer your questions and help determine which procedure is right for you.