Full mouth reconstruction is a term used to describe the process of restoring all of the teeth in the upper and lower jaws with prosthetic devices, such as implants, bridges, crowns, and dentures.

The goal of full mouth reconstruction is to improve the function and aesthetics of your smile by lessening pain, correcting bite alignment issues, and restoring natural beauty and confidence.

One of the most popular treatments for full mouth reconstruction is dental bridges. A bridge is a false tooth, known as a pontic, which is held in place by two or more anchor teeth. The anchors are usually crowns that are placed on the adjacent teeth to provide support and stability for the pontic.

Dental bridges can be used to replace one or more missing teeth in a row and can be made from either porcelain, metal, or a combination of materials. Bridges are designed to restore the strength and aesthetics of your smile while also preventing adjacent teeth from shifting out of place.

Process

How Long Does Full Mouth Reconstruction Take?

The duration of a full mouth reconstruction can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the specific treatments involved, and the individual patient’s needs. It is a comprehensive process that involves multiple dental procedures to restore or replace teeth in both the upper and lower jaws.

• Evaluation and treatment planning – The initial phase involves a thorough examination and evaluation of your oral health, which may include X-rays, impressions, and consultations with specialists. Treatment planning is crucial to determine the sequence of procedures and develop a personalized treatment plan. This phase can take a few weeks to complete.
• Preliminary procedures – Before starting the reconstruction, any existing dental issues, such as gum disease, decayed teeth, or infections, may need to be addressed. This may involve treatments such as periodontal therapy, root canals, or extractions. The duration for these preliminary procedures can vary depending on the number and complexity of the required treatments.
• Restorative procedures – The main restorative procedures in full mouth reconstruction can include dental implants, dental bridges, crowns, veneers, dentures, or orthodontic treatments. The time required for each procedure will depend on factors such as the number of teeth involved, the type of restoration chosen, and the healing time required for implants or gum tissue.
• Healing and adjustment period – After each procedure, there is typically a healing period during which the mouth adjusts to the restorations or implants. This period can vary depending on the procedure and individual healing abilities. Follow-up appointments are necessary to ensure proper healing and make any necessary adjustments to the restorations.

How To Take Care of My Oral Health After a Full Mouth Reconstruction

After undergoing a full mouth reconstruction, it’s crucial to take proper care of your oral health to maintain the results of the treatment and ensure long-term success.

• Maintain good oral hygiene – Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to clean between teeth and remove plaque and food particles. Consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash as recommended by your dentist.
• Schedule regular dental check-ups – Follow your dentist’s recommended schedule for check-ups and cleanings. These visits allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your restorations, perform professional cleanings, and address any emerging issues before they become major problems.
• Follow post-treatment instructions – Your dentist will provide specific post-treatment instructions after your full mouth reconstruction. It may include guidelines on oral hygiene, diet, and activities to avoid. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and longevity of your restorations.
• Be mindful of your diet – Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods that can damage your restorations. Limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks, as they can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains supports overall oral health.
• Protect your teeth during physical activities – If you participate in sports or activities that may pose a risk to your teeth, consider wearing a mouthguard. A custom-fitted mouthguard can provide protection against potential trauma to your teeth and restorations.

Do and Don’ts During and After a Full Mouth Reconstruction

During and after a full mouth reconstruction, there are certain do’s and don’ts that can help ensure the success of the treatment and promote optimal oral health. Here are some important guidelines to follow:

During the Full Mouth Reconstruction

• Do communicate openly – Maintain open and clear communication with your dentist throughout the entire process. Discuss your goals, concerns, and any changes in your oral health or comfort levels.
• Do follow pre-operative instructions – Prior to the reconstruction, your dentist may provide specific instructions such as fasting before surgery or avoiding certain medications. Adhere to these instructions to ensure a smooth procedure.
• Don’t rush the process – Full mouth reconstruction is a comprehensive treatment that requires careful planning and execution. Be patient and allow sufficient time for each phase of the reconstruction to ensure optimal results.
• Don’t miss dental appointments – Attend all scheduled dental appointments for evaluations, treatments, adjustments, and follow-ups. Regular check-ups are essential for monitoring the progress of your reconstruction and addressing any issues promptly.

After the Full Mouth Reconstruction

• Do follow post-operative instructions – Your dentist will provide detailed post-operative instructions, including guidelines for oral hygiene, diet, and activities to avoid. Follow these instructions diligently to promote healing and protect your restorations.
• Do maintain excellent oral hygiene – Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash as recommended by your dentist. Good oral hygiene helps prevent complications such as infection or decay.
• Don’t skip dental check-ups – Schedule regular dental check-ups as recommended by your dentist. These visits allow for professional cleanings, evaluation of your restorations, and identification of any potential issues before they escalate.
• Don’t neglect symptoms or changes – Pay attention to any unusual symptoms, such as persistent pain, sensitivity, or changes in your bite. Report these to your dentist promptly for evaluation and necessary adjustments.
• Don’t engage in harmful habits – Avoid habits that can damage your restorations or oral health, such as chewing on ice, biting hard objects, or using your teeth as tools. These actions can lead to fractures, dislodgement, or other complications.
• Do maintain a balanced diet – Consume a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support your overall oral health. Limit sugary foods and beverages, as they can contribute to tooth decay. Opt for foods that are beneficial for your teeth, such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
• Do protect your teeth during physical activities – If you participate in sports or activities with a risk of dental trauma, wear a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your restorations and natural teeth.

Do address concerns promptly: If you experience any discomfort, sensitivity, or concerns related to your restorations, contact your dentist promptly. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure the long-term success of your full mouth reconstruction.

Am I A Candidate For Full Mouth Reconstruction?

Determining whether you are a candidate for full mouth reconstruction requires a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified dentist or prosthodontist. Full mouth reconstruction is typically recommended for individuals who have extensive dental problems or multiple missing teeth that require comprehensive restoration or replacement.

Reasons to Get Full Mouth Reconstruction

There are several compelling reasons why individuals may consider getting a full mouth reconstruction.

• Full mouth reconstruction improves oral function by restoring or replacing teeth
• Aesthetics can be enhanced with full mouth reconstruction, improving confidence
• Bite problems and misaligned teeth can be corrected with full mouth reconstruction
• Dental trauma or extensive damage can be treated with full mouth reconstruction
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can be addressed with full mouth reconstruction
• Overall oral health can be improved with full mouth reconstruction, addressing underlying dental issues
• Full mouth reconstruction can enhance self-confidence and quality of life
• A qualified dentist or prosthodontist should be consulted to evaluate specific dental needs and develop a personalized treatment plan.

It’s essential to consult with a qualified dentist or prosthodontist who specializes in full mouth reconstruction to evaluate your specific dental needs and determine if this comprehensive treatment is suitable for you. They will assess your oral health, discuss your goals and concerns, and develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve the desired outcomes.

Methods

Full Mouth Reconstruction With Dental Implants

Full mouth reconstruction with dental implants is a comprehensive treatment approach that involves using dental implants to replace missing teeth and restore the function, aesthetics, and overall oral health of the entire mouth. Here are some key points regarding full mouth reconstruction with dental implants:

• Evaluation and treatment planning involves assessing oral health, reviewing dental history, and obtaining diagnostic images.
• Dental implants are small titanium posts placed in the jawbone as artificial tooth roots.
• Healing period and osseointegration must be completed for implant stability.
• Abutments are used to attach prosthetic teeth to the implants.
• Final restoration includes attaching prosthetic teeth and adjusting bite alignment as necessary.
• Post-treatment care is essential, including regular dental check-ups, brushing, flossing, and using antimicrobial mouthwash.

Full mouth reconstruction with dental implants offers several benefits, including improved chewing ability, enhanced aesthetics, increased stability, and long-term durability. It provides a reliable and natural-looking solution for individuals with extensive tooth loss or damaged teeth, helping them regain confidence in their smile and oral function.

Full Mouth Reconstruction with Dentures

Full mouth reconstruction with dentures is a comprehensive treatment approach that involves replacing multiple missing teeth with a full set of dentures to restore oral function, aesthetics, and overall oral health.

Here are some key points regarding full mouth reconstruction with dentures:

• Evaluation by a dental professional is necessary for creating custom-made dentures.
• Diagnostic images and impressions may be taken as part of treatment planning.
• Extraction of damaged or remaining teeth may also be necessary for full mouth reconstruction.
• Immediate dentures may be provided on the same day for functional teeth during the healing process.
• Adjustment and refinement of dentures to ensure proper fit and comfort is important.
• Post-treatment care, including regular dental check-ups and proper cleaning, is vital for oral health and denture longevity.

Full mouth reconstruction with dentures can provide several benefits, including restored oral function, improved aesthetics, and enhanced confidence in your smile. Dentures offer a removable solution for individuals with extensive tooth loss, allowing them to eat, speak, and smile with comfort and ease.

• Restorative dentistry begins with a thorough evaluation and assessment by a dental professional.
• Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps used to restore severely damaged or weakened teeth.
• Dental bridges replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth or implants.
• Materials for dental bridges and crowns can vary, and dentists will consider factors such as aesthetics and durability.
• Custom crowns and bridges are fabricated in a dental laboratory after impressions are taken of the mouth.
• Placement and adjustment of dental restorations is crucial for proper fit, comfort, and alignment.
• Maintaining good oral hygiene practices is important for the longevity and health of dental restorations.

A full mouth reconstruction is a wonderful choice for people looking to improve their oral health and increase the longevity of their overall smile. Multiple procedures may be combined such as crowns, bridges, implants, and more to provide optimal results.

Contact River District Smiles Dentistry today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your potential journey towards a beautiful reconstruction!