A full mouth restoration is also referred to as a full mouth rehabilitation. This is the process of restoring or rebuilding the teeth in the lower and upper jaws at the same time. When veneers, bridges or crowns are needed, the work is generally performed by a restorative or general dentist. In some cases, dental specialists such as a periodontist who specializes in the gums, an orthodontist specializing in the positions and movements of the teeth, oral surgeons and endodontists are required. The reasons a full mouth construction may become necessary include:
- Teeth that have been lost due to trauma or decay
- Teeth that have been fractured or injured
- Severely worn teeth resulting from tooth grinding or long term acid erosion
- Ongoing issues of pain in the muscles and jaw
- Headache pain necessitating adjustments to the occlusion or bite
If you believe a full mouth restoration may be necessary, the first step is making an appointment with a dentist for a comprehensive evaluation. The mouth is thoroughly examined by the dentist to determine the exact problems and devise the right treatment options to correct the issues. The dentist examines the condition of the teeth to see which restorative procedures will be required. This may include full crowns, porcelain veneers, onlays, inlays, implants with a crown or bridges. The dentist will look for any cavities with decay, cracks, tooth wear, tooth movement and root canal issues.
If the gums are unhealthy, a scaling and root planing will most likely be necessary for the treatment of periodontal disease. This may mean additional and intense treatments from a periodontist to make certain there is a solid foundation for the newly reconstructed teeth. This type of treatment may include bone of soft tissue grafts to build up the underlying jaw bone and the gums. The periodontist will look for insufficient or excessive gum tissue, deep pockets, bone density irregularities and periodontal disease.
If the bite is stable, the individual can chew or close their mouth without any pain. This will not cause any destruction or wear on the teeth and is an important part of overall oral health. Any occlusal changes must be considered when the restorations are planned by the dentist. This may require a certain type of treatment such as a bite reprogramming orthotic or a nigh guard for the occlusion to be corrected prior to any other restorative procedures taking place.
The other important factors pertaining to a full mouth reconstruction are the proportion, size, shape and color of the teeth in relation to the mouth, lips, gums and the side profile of the face. The examination procedure involves records of the mouth including photographs, X-rays, impressions of the lower and upper teeth and a model of the bite. The dentist may refer the individual to an oral surgeon, orthodontist or periodontist for a consultation. This facilitates the development of the best possible treatment plan.
Once all the relevant information has been obtained by the dentist, a step by step and comprehensive treatment plan will be created to correct all the issues. This ensures the reconstruction can be effectively completed. A detailed written copy of the treatment plan is usually given to the person to make certain they understand the plan and in case they are interested in receiving a second opinion. It is important to understand both the benefits and the risks of the recommended treatment before proceeding. Only the dentist and specialists performing work regarding the full mouth restoration can decide what specific procedures are necessary. It is always a good idea to ask if there are any alternate procedures available.
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