Some smiles require more of an overhaul than others when it comes to restoring a patient’s oral health to where it needs to be. This is nothing to be ashamed of and our Jacksonville and Live Oak, FL, dentists commend you for taking this step in your life! Full mouth reconstruction is not just one thing, but instead encapsulates a range of treatments all intended to improve the condition, function, and look of your smile.
Here’s what you need to know about the
.Do I Need Full Mouth Reconstruction?
Known also as
or restoration, full mouth reconstruction is not for everyone and is meant to only help patients that need the majority of their teeth in the upper and lower jaws restored. While it may sound similar to a smile makeover, this grouping of procedures is predominately restorative while the former is cosmetic.Full mouth reconstruction may be recommended if you have:
- Multiple missing teeth
- Large dental fillings in a few teeth that are not in good shape
- Broken, cracked, or fractured teeth
- Extensive erosion or worn tooth enamel due to bruxism or other behaviors
- Consistent pain in your jaw, muscles surrounding, or head
- Smile damage due to widespread gum disease
Types of Treatments Involved
Our dentists will need to thoroughly assess your smile using a comprehensive oral exam, dental X-rays, pictures, impressions, and possibly more to develop an appropriate treatment plan. It isn’t until we have a clearer view of what’s going on that we can move forward with various options.
Be aware that multiple phases and appointments may be required to achieve the end goal that you and our dentists decide upon. The process can also slow at certain points because of time needed for healing and recovery. For example, if we place dental implants, those need to fully fuse with the jawbone and heal before next steps.
Depending on your situation, treatments may include:
- Periodontal therapy (scaling and root planing)
- Dental implants
- Dentures
- A dental bridge
- Same-day dental crowns
- Porcelain veneers
- Invisalign® clear aligners (to fix bite or tooth alignment issues)
- Bone or soft tissue grafting