Full mouth reconstruction, full mouth rehabiltation and full mouth restoration are terms used interchangeably to describe the process of rebuilding or simultaneously restoring all of the teeth in both the upper and lower jaws.

Full mouth reconstruction typically involves general or restorative dentists (performing procedures like crowns, bridges and veneers), and can incorporate dental specialists like periodontist (specializing in the gums), oral surgeons (specialising in placement of dental implants), orthodontists (specialising in tooth movements and positins) and endodontists (specialising in treating infected teeth).

 

The need for full mouth reconstruction may result from:

• Teeth that have been lost due to decay or trauma.
• Teeth that have been injured or fractured.
• Teeth severely worn out as a result of long term acod erosion(acid reflux) or tooth grinding.
• Ongoing complaints of jaw, muscle pains and headache, requiring adjustments to the bite (occlusion).

 

What procedures are needed for full mouth restoration?

Only your dentist and the team of specialists working on your full mouth reconstruction can determine what procedures are needed for your specific case. Other treatments may also be available, so ask your dentist about all possible procedures that might be required for your case and under what circumstances.

Most full mouth reconstructions involve multiple phases and office visits. The following procedures may be involved, depending on your needs:

• Prophylactic teeth cleaning and periodontal care.
• Crown lengthening to expose healthy, sound tooth structure for possible crowns or bridges.
• Orthognathic surgery to reposition the jaw.
• Contouring of the gum tissue to create balance and harmony in your smile.
• Root canal treatments.
• Preparation (reduction) of your natural tooth structure so crowns, bridges or veneers can be placed.
• Placement of temporary restorations so you can become accustomed to your new teeth and the feel of your new mouth or bite alignment.
• Placement of permanent restorations, such as crowns, veneers, inlays/onlays or bridges, made from ceramic, ceramic supported by metal or a combination of both.
• Orthodontics (braces) in order to move your teeth into the optimal position for reconstruction.
• Implant placement and restoration to replace missing teeth and/or anchor bridge restorations.
• Bone or soft tissue grafting to enhance the stability of your teeth, proposed implants and/or other restorations.

 

Full mouth reconstruction vs. smile makeover

How does full mouth reconstruction differ from smile makeover? A smile makeover is something that you elect to have performed, while a full mouth reconstruction is something that you need.

As the makers of dental materials respond to increasing consumer demands for beautiful, natural-looking dentistry, it is becoming hard to draw a line between purely “cosmetic” (such as elective) dentistry and “restorative” (necessary) dentistry. For example, it is now possible for your dentist to treat tooth decay with a tooth-like filling material that looks natural. If you need full mouth reconstruction, the materials available today make it possible for your dentist to provide you with durable, functional and clinically sound treatments that also look natural.

It is also important to note that a smile makeover – though performed primarily to improve the esthetic appearance of the smile – requires the use of clinically proven dental materials and treatment techniques, as well as exceptional knowledge, training and skill on the part of the dentist. Many of the same techniques and equipment used for full mouth reconstruction are also used to ensure the success and long-term stability of smile makeover treatments.