What is full mouth reconstruction?
Full mouth reconstruction, also known as full mouth restoration, is the process of rebuilding, restoring or replacing most or all of the teeth in the upper and lower jaws.
What does full mouth reconstruction involve?
Full mouth reconstruction involves treatments that address your specific oral health problems. Your treatment plan could combine any of the following general or restorative dentistry procedures:
- Placement of dental restorations like dental crowns, veneers, fillings, inlays, onlays, dental bridges, dentures or dental implants
- Orthodontics
- Root canal therapy
- Gum tissue recontouring
- Treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder
- Dental extractions
- Corrective jaw surgery
- Deep cleanings
- Crown lengthening
- Bone or soft tissue grafting
Is a full mouth reconstruction like a smile makeover?
Although both full mouth reconstruction and smile makeover are customizable and combine several treatments, they are performed for different reasons. Full mouth reconstruction is needed to restore optimal oral health and function, and smile makeover is something you elect to have performed to improve the appearance of your teeth and smile.
Am I a candidate for full mouth reconstruction?
You may be a candidate for full mouth reconstruction if you have multiple dental complications or concerns, such as cracked, broken, decayed or missing teeth. Full mouth reconstruction can also address problems with the gums, bite, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or jaw muscles.
How long does full mouth reconstruction take?
It usually takes at least several months, up to a year or more to complete the steps of full mouth reconstruction. The timeline depends on the specific procedures and treatments included.
Does full mouth reconstruction hurt?
No, you will not be in pain at any point during treatment. Dr. Spencer can administer sedation dentistry to make your appointments comfortable and relaxing. Sedation dentistry also leaves you with little to no recollection of treatment.
I have a health condition that makes it difficult to sit in the dental chair for a long period of time. Can I still have full mouth reconstruction?
Yes, sedation dentistry is a great option for anyone that has back pain, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy or other conditions that make it hard to sit still or control their movements. When you are comfortably sedated, it will seem as though treatment takes no time at all.
How much does full mouth reconstruction cost?
The cost of full mouth reconstruction depends on the treatments performed, the dental materials and techniques used, whether sedation dentistry techniques are utilized and other factors. After you meet with Dr. Spencer to discuss your needs and goals, our office manager can provide you with a cost estimate.
Does insurance cover full mouth reconstruction?
Depending on your insurer, your plan may cover some of the costs associated with full mouth reconstruction. Our office manager can go over some potential scenarios and project your out-of-pocket expenses during your consultation.
How long will my full mouth reconstruction results last?
How long your results last depends on how closely you follow Dr. Spencer’s post-op instructions and how well you take care of your teeth and gums. If you brush and floss daily and see him every few months for dental check-ups, you should expect your results to last indefinitely.
Where can I learn more about full mouth reconstruction?
You can learn more by contacting our La Jolla – North Pacific Beach full mouth reconstruction dentist, Weston Spencer. Call or email our practice to schedule an informational consultation at our convenient San Diego-area dental office.