Full Mouth Reconstruction Can Restore Vitality and Beauty to the Smile

When several areas of the mouth have sustained damage, infection, injury or tooth loss, full mouth reconstruction may be indicated. The term refers to a collection or series of dental procedures that together restore health, vitality, form and function to an individual’s smile. Typically performed in stages over the course of several months or years, smile makeover procedures often include the following:

• Periodontal Treatment (addresses gum and bone health)
• Crown Lengthening (increases the surface area of a tooth or teeth)
• Gum Tissue Recontouring (reshapes the gum line to healthier levels)
• Restorative Procedures (involve crowns, bridges, veneers, inlays and onlays)
• Orthodontics (reposition teeth and jaw to improve function and esthetics)
• Dental Implants/Anchor Bridge Restorations (replace missing teeth permanently)
• Bone Grafting (replaces bone lost to disease, trauma or missing teeth)
• Soft Tissue Grafting (restores gum line after gum recession has occurred)

The necessity of any of these procedures is determined by the state of the patient’s oral and general health. The treatment planning dentist may collaborate with other dental specialists, such as prosthodontists, orthodontists, periodontists, endodontists or oral surgeons, to develop a comprehensive treatment plan addressing all oral health needs. A call to the patient’s primary or other physicians may be necessary depending upon their medical health.

Rebuilding the Smile

Collectively, all procedures that go into the process work toward the common goal of rehabilitating the mouth and rebuilding the smile. The patient plays a significant role in determining the desired outcome, as procedures are planned that not only improve the health of the teeth, gums and bone, but also achieve the personal esthetics the patient is seeking. Goals are prioritized throughout the smile makeover process, and are balanced between eliminating infection, replacing missing teeth and restoring tooth structure, and creating the bright, brilliant smile that is the ultimate goal for many.

Who Is a Candidate?

While a number of individuals may benefit from smile makeover services, the best candidates for full mouth reconstruction are those who have lost multiple teeth, require extensive restorative treatment or surgical procedures, or have suffered damage due to trauma or injury. For more information, or to learn if you are a candidate for these services, contact your dental professional today.