If you’re dealing with more than one major dental issue, you may want to consider mouth reconstruction. This form of dental surgery is noticeably different from a smile makeover since your dentist will address the function and health of your gums, teeth, and jaws while improving the overall look of your smile. There are a few criteria you have to meet to be a candidate for this extensive procedure, so here are some things to keep in mind as you prepare to improve your smile and overall oral health.
Would You Make A Good Candidate For Full Mouth Reconstruction?
A full mouth reconstruction is ideal for someone who has tooth decay, broken or chipped teeth, or missing teeth. Some individuals can also receive this procedure if they have large fillings. Your dentist will also assess your teeth to see if you have sustained injuries to your mouth and jaw from playing sports or grinding your teeth while you sleep. Oral reconstructive surgery is also a viable option for people who were born with rare conditions such as Dentinogenesis Imperfecta or Ectodermal Dysplasia. Normally, you’ll have to take local anesthesia to complete the reconstruction process. Talk to your dentist about the anesthesia options that are safest for you.
How Does the Procedure Work?
During this procedure, which can involve several phases, your professional dental team will work to restore the structure and function of your mouth and jaws. These procedures will also enhance the overall look of your smile. The reconstruction can include:
- receiving veneers
- getting bridges or crowns
- deep-cleaning
- bone grafting
- dental implants
- jaw surgery
- customized gum treatments
The steps your dental team will take to revitalize your smile will vary depending on your needs. You’ll undergo procedures every few months, so the complete reconstruction can take up to a year to complete. Your dentist can also make the process more comfortable for you by providing sedation dentistry. When you know that you won’t be in a lot of pain, you may be more likely to relax and allow the dentist to transfer your smile.
When Should You Consider Mouth Reconstruction?
You may need mouth reconstruction if you have certain dental conditions that interrupt the way your teeth and gums are supposed to function. These conditions can include temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ), worn or damaged teeth, teeth grinding, or missing teeth. You’ll likely undergo a series of X-rays so the dentist can get a detailed look at your gums, jaw, and teeth. The X-rays will make it easier for your dental team to diagnose your specific dental condition(s) and suggest the proper techniques to help you look and feel your best.
When it comes to examining your teeth, your dentist will check for signs of infection, decay, or cracks. The dentist also studies your X-rays to see if your teeth have significantly shifted over time. You’ll then receive a recommendation for bridges, implants, veneers, or crowns. To treat your gum tissue, your dentist will deep-clean your mouth and perform bone or soft tissue grafts to rebuild your jaw and gums if you’re suffering from gum disease or a misshapen jaw. Your jaw will also be evaluated to determine how healthy your jaw is and whether you have an overbite or underbite. In case there is pain or discomfort in your jaw, or you notice severe headaches when you chew or swallow your food, you may receive a night guard as part of your reconstruction treatment.
Concerns to Consider
Even if you conclude that oral reconstruction is best for you, there are some concerns to keep in mind. The first thing to remember is that younger patients tend to respond better to the series of procedures that are required for mouth reconstruction. If you have preexisting health conditions or are older, your dentist may recommend mini dental implants so that you won’t have to undergo a more extensive dental implant surgery.
Before you make your appointment for the first phase of your oral reconstruction, talk to your dentist about the risk associated with the surgeries you’ll need. Once you receive tips and suggestions for caring for your teeth throughout the reconstruction process, you’ll likely feel more prepared to start the journey of creating the smile you’ve always wanted.
