What is full mouth reconstruction?
A full mouth reconstruction means that I am going to rehabilitate or reconstruct your mouth. It can involve a combination of reconstructing some of the fillings, putting new crowns in, and ensuring your gums and bones, the foundation of our teeth, are healthy. It aims to help someone suffering from a lack of teeth or unhealthy teeth. Through crowns, implants, and new technology dentures, I strive to make those unhealthy teeth healthy again.
Who would be a candidate for full mouth reconstruction?
A candidate for full mouth reconstruction would be someone whose mouth isn't healthy, perhaps due to many cavities or missing teeth. The goal is to restore their mouth to a whole by eliminating cavities, infections, and providing strong teeth for chewing and smiling. Good candidates include those missing teeth, with an off bite, or seeking aesthetic reconstruction because they dislike their current teeth's appearance.
What would disqualify someone from being a candidate for full mouth reconstruction?
Someone who wouldn't be a good candidate for full mouth reconstruction is someone who has many healthy teeth. If there aren't many missing teeth, infections, or cavities, and no need to pull teeth, then full mouth reconstruction may not be necessary.
What are the different treatment options for full mouth reconstruction?
There are various treatment options for full mouth reconstruction. These include veneers, crowns, bridges, dental implants, and implant-supported overdentures for replacing missing teeth. These different modalities are used to reconstruct someone's mouth.
Is a general dentist qualified to perform a full mouth reconstruction?
A general dentist is definitely qualified to perform full mouth reconstructions. General dentists have the necessary knowledge to treat infections, gum disease, and missing teeth. Most general dentists take continuing education classes to enhance their skills and provide the best options for full mouth reconstruction.
What is the process for going through a full mouth reconstruction?
The initial process involves ensuring you are a good candidate and presenting different treatment options. This includes an initial visit with full mouth x-rays, a thorough exam of your jaws, bones, and gums, as well as x-rays, photos, and possibly a scan to start the full mouth reconstruction.
How long does a full mouth reconstruction take?
A full mouth reconstruction can take anywhere from a few visits to a few months. Simple fixes like back teeth crowns may take a few visits, while procedures like implants need time to heal and could take a few months.
What anesthesia options will be available during the full mouth reconstruction process?
For full mouth reconstruction, we offer several anesthesia options. Local anesthesia is available to numb the area, and IV sedation is offered for longer appointments. IV sedation is conscious sedation, a safe, deep sleep, allowing you to wake up with your treatment completed.
How long does it take to heal from a full mouth reconstruction?
Healing time depends on whether surgeries were involved. Surgical procedures typically require a few weeks to heal, while non-surgical procedures generally heal within a week, allowing you to start using your new crowns or dentures.
Are there special care instructions following a full mouth reconstruction?
Special care instructions depend on the type of reconstruction performed. For surgical procedures, there will be specific instructions for gum care and sutures. Generally, instructions range from not eating until anesthetic wears off to avoiding chewing on a surgical site. Instructions are provided based on the specific reconstruction.
Will a full mouth reconstruction last for the rest of my life?
While full mouth reconstructions can rehabilitate your mouth and bite, there are no lifetime guarantees. Proper maintenance, such as regular checkups and cleanings, can help ensure they last a long time. With good oral hygiene at home and regular professional care, the results can be long-lasting.
Will dental insurance cover the cost of a full mouth reconstruction?
Dental insurance may cover part of the full mouth reconstruction, but it generally doesn't cover everything. We present and offer payment options to make treatment accessible, ensuring that financial concerns don't prevent you from receiving necessary care.
Are financing options available to help me pay for my full mouth reconstruction?
Yes, we offer financing options to help manage the cost of your full mouth reconstruction.
How can I schedule an appointment to talk about full mouth reconstruction options?
If you're interested in full mouth reconstruction, you can call our office at (805) 554-0018 to schedule your first appointment. I hope to see you there.