In the United States, 26% of adults over the age of 65 have 8 or fewer teeth; 17% of this population has no teeth left at all. In these cases, complex restorative dental procedures are vital to maintaining normal daily activities such as eating, drinking, and speaking.
Full mouth reconstruction goes beyond looks. It focuses on restoring the mouth’s functionality, ensuring not only a healthier mouth but also one that functions naturally.
What is a Full Mouth Reconstruction?
Full mouth reconstruction is a comprehensive and integrated approach that involves multiple dental procedures to address various issues affecting teeth, gums, and sometimes even the jawbone.
The following procedures are usually included in a full mouth reconstruction:
- Crowns and bridges. Crowns are tooth-colored caps placed over the entire tooth surface to restore damaged or decayed teeth, and bridges are used to replace missing teeth.
- Veneers. Veneers are thin shells made from ceramic or porcelain placed over the front of teeth to improve their strength and disguise cosmetic flaws like discoloration, chips, and gaps.
- Dentures. Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. They are custom-made to fit comfortably over gums and feature an acrylic plate with a full arch of false teeth.
- Periodontal solutions. Treatment for gum disease might include deep cleanings, scaling and root planing; however, you may need gum flap surgery for severe periodontitis or a gum graft for gum recession.
- Root canal treatment. Root canal treatments remove the infected inner pulp layer to save an infected or badly decayed tooth.
- Dental implants. Dental implants use a metal post, surgically inserted into the jawbone, topped with a connector and an artificial tooth to replace one or more missing teeth. They provide a stable and long-lasting solution.
Bone grafting. Bone grafts are a natural or synthetic bone matrix that can be transplanted to replace damaged or decayed jawbone. This is sometimes necessary before dental implants when the jawbone is not strong enough to support an implant.
Full Mouth Reconstruction vs. Smile Makeover
Full mouth reconstruction and smile makeovers serve different purposes. A full mouth reconstruction is necessary for functional and cosmetic issues, while a smile makeover is cosmetic.
A full mouth reconstruction addresses issues like tooth loss, damage, misalignment, and gum disease, with aesthetics as a bonus.
A smile makeover enhances the appearance of the smile. It might include procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding.
Beyond Aesthetics: The Functional Benefits
Full mouth reconstruction often improves a patient’s overall quality of life. The following are common benefits of the procedure:
- Improving bite and jaw alignment. Full mouth reconstruction corrects misalignments in the jaw and teeth, reducing strain or pain in the jaw joints and muscles.
- Enhancing chewing and digestion. By restoring damaged or missing teeth, you can enjoy the same foods as you used to, including hard and chewy foods like apples and steak. This improved chewing function can also aid in better digestion.
- Prevention of oral health issues. This procedure prevents future dental problems by addressing underlying issues and reinforcing the strength of your teeth and gums.
- Speech improvement. Correcting dental irregularities often leads to clearer speech, as teeth play a crucial role in forming words and sounds.
Who Needs Full Mouth Reconstruction?
Full mouth reconstruction is necessary due to a variety of conditions. The following issues often require full mouth reconstruction:
- Extensive tooth loss or decay.
- Significant jaw, bite, or TMJ issues.
- Severe dental trauma or injury.
- Chronic dental health issues like bruxism or periodontitis.
Restore Your Smile With Caputo Dental
If you’re facing dental challenges beyond cosmetic concerns, consider a full mouth reconstruction to restore your smile. To take the first step towards a healthier, more comfortable smile, contact Caputo Dental at (630) 922-1311 and schedule your consultation today.