Hearing the term “full mouth reconstruction” might instantly trigger some warning signs in your brain. But the truth is that it isn’t as serious and painful as it sounds.
What is full mouth reconstruction?
Reconstruction procedures are meant to strengthen and enhance your smile, while also reducing your chances of pain and damage. Furthermore, the process is designed and carried out to cater to your needs, both for appearance and health.
For some people, full mouth reconstruction can also improve self-esteem, undergoing some other procedures. Two examples are teeth whitening or polishing.
With this dental process, you can change your look if you’re not content.
Consultation with a dentist
First, consult your dentist. Tell them about the look you are aiming for and the type of reconstruction procedures you want. Get a quote too.
The initial appointment (or two) are always for information and consultation purposes. That way you know what to expect from the pace of the process.
The dentist will take x-rays and conduct any tests that are essential for the procedure. Most of the time, aside from cosmetic and aesthetic issues, there is serious damage to the teeth that need to be taken care of.
As soon as the dentist has gotten the necessary reports, this specialist will develop your treatment plan. Here, the dentist will identify any problems found in the tests and what can be done about them.
A good dental professional also asks about your preferences, so be sure to speak up. If you have a fear of dentists, here are a few ways to start to overcome it.
What comes next for a full mouth reconstruction?
After viewing the results, your dentist may tell you that you don’t require full mouth reconstruction. Instead, they may recommend only a few procedures. If in doubt, make an appointment with an orthodontist, periodontist, etc. for a second opinion.
If your dentist does recommend full mouth reconstruction, know that this recommendation is based on a comprehensive needs analysis, and the length of time to complete the process can vary from person to person.
Take your time and discuss the issues with your dentist. Always be comfortable with the dentist too before moving forward; that’s a sign that you’ve found the right one who listens to you.
If you decide to go for the procedure, keep reading to learn the steps that are involved.
Tooth impressions and preparations
For full mouth reconstruction, the teeth need to be prepared somewhat so that the desired look can be achieved. The target teeth will be shaved down before taking an impression of the area so that the restored teeth are not bigger than the original teeth. Then, temporary restorations are fit in place to avoid any disturbance and keep the natural look of the teeth.
Placing the Restorations
The restorations are made in the lab. Then, once they are done, they are sent to the dentist’s office where they will be affixed to your teeth.
The dentist adjusts the restorations and bonds them to your teeth. Then, the professional will carry out small procedures such as polishing, scaling, and any subtle enhancements that you two agree on beforehand.
Treatment variations
New York Total Dental cautions that if you have cavities or diseases such as periodontal disease, some extra treatments need to be carried out for the full mouth reconstruction process.
These procedures include root canals or any sharp scaling, which may cause discomfort and pain but are for the best in terms of oral health. The full mouth reconstruction process is relatively shorter than the root canal procedure, but it is necessary for complete reconstruction and oral health.
In the case of missing teeth, they are replaced with dental implants, which are sometimes made of titanium. Extravagant, isn’t it?
Recommended aftercare
Although every treatment requires healing time and rest, you are bound to feel a little discomfort in the days right after the procedure. It will take time to get used to the changes in your mouth, and it might even trigger more or less sensitivity in your teeth.
Therefore, taking care of your teeth is very important after full mouth reconstruction. Try eating normal temperature foods; for example, don’t eat very hot soup or very cold ice cream.
Also, gum and candy are strictly prohibited in order to sustain a good healing process. Regardless, if you feel any pain or sensitivity despite taking proper precautions, consult your dentist as soon as possible to look into the matter.
Have you ever undergone a big dental procedure?
I can’t say I’m fond of a lot of dental work. Fortunately, I now have a lovely dentist who looks after me and my anxieties very well.
A friend is currently undergoing a full reconstruction. He has now had all his teeth removed and will soon be having implants. Bone disease is the reason for this. It’s quite incredible.
It’s a big procedure and my dad has had a lot of dental work done so it’s good to know about it I think before heading into an appointment. Doing research beforehand can save you money and also reduce anxiety. I wish your friend well, Norah xx
I think you’re right on both counts, Christy. I hope your father’s work was successful. Thank you for your wishes for my friend. I look forward to finding out the outcome. It’s a lengthy process.
Yes, I wish your friend all the best. My dad is happy with the work done and has much less anxiety about dental appointments than before too (we’re all happy for that!)
Thanks, Christy. That’s a good outcome for your dad. :)
Hugs xx
Interesting, I have braces at the moment to straighten a few teeth and that is more than enough for me.
Yes it’s a bit daunting! But good to know the procedures are out there for mouth health – it’s amazing how advanced things have gotten.