What is Full Mouth Reconstruction?
Sometimes referred to as full mouth rehabilitation or restoration, full mouth reconstruction is a set of procedures that rebuild or restore every tooth in a person’s mouth. While the process primarily involves general or restorative dentists, it can also involve periodontists, orthodontists, endodontists, and oral surgeons, depending on the extent of damage to the teeth, jaw, and periodontal tissues. People undergo full mouth restorations for a few different reasons, including:
- Loss of teeth because of decay, disease, or trauma
- Extensive fractures or injury to the teeth and jaw
- Severely eroded teeth
- Chronic, extensive pain in the jaw or surrounding area that relates to the bite
It’s important to note that there are always clinical, medical, or structural reasons to have a full mouth reconstruction, whether these are preventative or restorative; without a full mouth reconstruction, the patient’s health is, in some way, at risk. This sets the procedure apart from strictly cosmetic dental treatments like “smile makeovers.” Full mouth reconstruction is a complex, medically necessary process that does far more than simply improve the appearance of the smile.
Like any comprehensive dental procedure, the process of full mouth reconstruction begins with an evaluation by a dentist. To determine whether full mouth reconstruction is the best treatment approach, the dentist examines the teeth, gums, bite, jaw joints, and jaw muscles. In this assessment, the dentist looks for areas of decay or wear, cracks or fractures, issues with root canals, tooth movement, or teeth that are misshapen, noting the condition of the teeth. They also examine the health of the gums, planning periodontal treatments when necessary, as the long-term success of full mouth reconstruction depends in large part on the strength of the gums and jawbone. These treatments might include dental deep cleanings, bone grafts, soft tissue grafts, or other periodontal procedures. Finally, the arrangement and stability of the teeth and bite are evaluated, and, when the bite requires modification, orthodontic treatments are arranged and completed before other restorations can occur. Among other procedures, full mouth reconstruction exams always include photographs, impressions, and X-rays, which are integral to such comprehensive reconstruction of the mouth.
Once a treatment plan is designed, the process of full mouth reconstruction begins. In most cases, this process requires multiple stages with several office visits. It’s not uncommon for these stages to take place over a year, if not more, and to involve any of the following procedures, in no particular order:
- Teeth cleaning
- Periodontal treatment
- Crown lengthening
- Jaw surgery
- Gum contouring
- Preparation of the teeth to accommodate crowns, bridges, or veneers
- Temporary restoration placement
- Permanent restoration placement
- Orthodontic treatment
- Implant surgery
- Tissue grafts
Cosmetic procedures that focus on the appearance of the teeth and not the oral health, like smile makeovers, aren’t usually covered by dental insurance. Many of the steps involved in a full mouth reconstruction can be expected to be covered, however, at least in part. For patients with inadequate insurance coverage, or patients who lack insurance entirely, third-party financing plans may be offered in partnership with your dentist, allowing for a manageable monthly payment plan. Of course, it’s important to check with your insurance provider and your dentist as you plan any dental procedure so that you know what to expect financially. This is just one step in planning this comprehensive treatment process to restore your oral cavity, and all that it contains, to optimal health and function.
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