Full Mouth Reconstruction in New York, New Jersey & Connecticut
What is a full mouth reconstruction?
Full mouth reconstruction is the term that describes the process of rebuilding the smile. This is not the same as a smile makeover, as reconstruction often has to do with restoring or replacing teeth that are malformed or have been severely damaged. The purpose of reconstruction is to improve appearance, chewing and biting function, and physical comfort.
How long does full mouth reconstruction take?
Every situation is unique. At the onset of care, we conduct a comprehensive consultation and examination. This enables us to understand the scope of care that is needed. The timeline for full mouth reconstruction is determined by a few factors. One is the various procedures that are needed to restore the function and appearance of teeth. Another important determining factor is patient preference. The process can take from several months to two years.
What is a full mouth debridement?
Ideally, dental cleanings are performed every six months as an aspect of preventive dental care. When cleanings are not performed regularly, plaque and tartar can build up on teeth. In cases of full mouth reconstruction, it is sometimes necessary to remove excessive amounts of plaque and tartar before a full and successful dental exam can be performed. This removal is called debridement.
Can all teeth be replaced with dental implants?
When full-mouth tooth replacement is necessary, patients have options besides getting a full mouth of dental implants. Dentists usually recommend an implant-supported bridge or denture to replace full upper and lower arches. This treatment option restores the appearance of the smile and, with as little as four dental implants per arch, also restores stability for biting and chewing. This is a cost-effective treatment option that does not diminish results.
What are the pros and cons of dental implants?
Dental implants are a preferred method of tooth replacement because there are far more advantages than disadvantages. From a clinical standpoint, dental implants serve an important role in oral health by replacing missing roots. The small titanium posts that are inserted into the jaw provide the greatest extent of stability for replacement teeth, whether that be a crown, bridge, or denture. While this method of tooth replacement involves higher up-front costs, the lifespan of dental implants
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can have a lifespan of 25 years or longer. For many patients, the treatment never needs to be repeated. Whether implants last this long is dependent on a few factors. These include:
- Consistent daily oral care. Dental implants, like natural roots, are reliant on healthy gums for long-term stability. To maintain gum health, it is necessary to brush every day and floss if any natural teeth remain. Brushing or some form of cleaning is vital even if all-natural teeth have been replaced by an implant-supported denture.
- General health. Some health conditions, such as diabetes, increase systemic inflammation and susceptibility to infection. Therefore, such conditions could affect the viability of dental implants.
- Lifestyle habits. There are very few foods that patients are advised to avoid when they have dental implants. In general, hard foods like ice and popcorn could degrade the foundation of dental implants and also damage restorations like crowns, bridges, or dentures.
How much does it cost for full mouth reconstruction?
The cost of full mouth reconstruction varies from one person to another. We determine costs based on the treatments that are needed to repair or replace teeth. Additional costs may include medication fees and sedation services. Before commencing with a treatment plan, we discuss the details of care and the costs associated with each phase.
Are antibiotics necessary after dental implant surgery?
Antibiotics used to be commonly prescribed as a form of prophylaxis for dental implant treatment. This is no longer the case. Dentists now limit this step to patients who are at a higher risk for complications following their implant procedure. At-risk patients include smokers, diabetics, and individuals with a compromised immune system. It is important to openly discuss lifestyle and health history during your consultation so your dentist can take appropriate measures through which treatment risks are decreased.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you suffer from multiple oral health concerns and would like to address all of them with one customizable, all-inclusive teeth reconstruction plan, we can help. Please contact our practice to schedule a full mouth rehabilitation consultation with one of our doctors. Call us today at 844.365.DENTAL or request an appointment through our website at any time.
