FAQs About Full Mouth Reconstruction

Having a full mouth reconstruction includes multiple involved procedures. If you are a candidate for this surgery, you will want to understand what will take place and what the benefits will be. The more you know about your upcoming surgery, the more comfortable you will feel too. Your dentist will explain the process, but you can also do your due diligence and learn more about full mouth reconstruction.

Why is there a need for a full mouth reconstruction?

A reconstruction of the mouth may be necessary for patients with severe oral health conditions. These may include missing or damaged teeth as well as a jaw misalignment. These issues could be the result of poor oral hygiene, such as infrequent brushing and flossing. Other patients may need surgery due to an injury suffered in an accident. In other situations, reconstruction could repair issues that the patient has had since birth.

What happens during a full mouth reconstruction?

A full mouth reconstruction restores the function of the mouth. The procedure repairs multiple conditions that have caused pain or discomfort. These conditions can also impair a person’s ability to eat or speak. They may even affect a person’s self-esteem.

A restoration can include procedures such as getting dental implants or dentures. It may also involve bone grafts, gum contouring, or root scaling. The restoration may be a single set of surgeries. Or, it could be ongoing care based on the dentist’s treatment plan. The care will cater to the patient’s needs and will address the person’s goals.

Can a general dentist do the treatment?

Some patients think they must go to the office of a periodontist, orthodontist, or oral surgeon. While these professionals may be good options, do not forget about a general dentist. A general dentist will often have the training and knowledge to effectively place implants, crowns, bridges, and other restorative work. Dentists can care for gum disease, tooth decay, and cosmetic concerns. When a patient needs a full mouth reconstruction, it is important to first check with the general dentist to see what procedures can be done at the office.

Do the surgery lengths vary?

No one wants to spend too much time in the dentist’s office. Fortunately, many full mouth reconstruction surgeries and treatments take less than an hour. The total length will depend on the complexity of the process and the severity of the patient’s issues. The dentist will often only do one procedure at a time and have the patient return to the office later for the next treatment. For example, the patient may need a jaw adjustment and a dental bridge. The dentist would not likely do both in one appointment.

Who can get a full mouth reconstruction?

This procedure is fit for people suffering from different mental issues. These problems may need a detailed care plan for the improvement of dental function and aesthetics. Patients who have ill-fitting dentures, as well as missing, worn, and broken teeth, are good candidates. People born with ailments like amelogenesis need a full mouth restoration.

Is a full mouth restoration different from a smile makeover?

These two procedures combine many types of treatments. The dentist will perform these treatments for different purposes. A full mouth reconstruction aims to bring back the patient’s oral appearance, function, and health. A smile makeover focuses on improving the look of one’s smile and teeth.

Why are dental X-rays important for full mouth reconstruction?

A dental X-ray can provide the dentist with enough information about the patient’s condition. This type of imaging exam can spot and target dental issues like decay and other types of dental damage. It gives the dentist a map of the patient’s mouth. This allows the dentist to determine where to focus the treatments.

Are the treatments painful?

It is possible for the patient to experience a level of discomfort. The dentist and the treatment team can try to make the patient feel as relaxed and as comfortable as possible. A general or local anesthetic can achieve this. IV sedation can keep the patient calm and reduce anxiety levels.

There is no reason to fear

You probably have some anxiety and nervousness about your upcoming full mouth reconstruction. These feelings are normal, but you can be at ease. Your dentist will guide you through the process and help you understand the facts about these processes. The results can be a new smile and improved health. If you have concerns or questions, you can speak to your dentist today.

Request an appointment here: https://www.missionvalleydentalarts.com or call Mission Valley Dental Arts at (619) 805-4248 for an appointment in our San Diego office.

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