Full Mouth Rehabilitation
So What is Reconstructive Dentistry?
Reconstructive dentistry refers to any restorative dentistry procedure that involves replacing or repairing broken or missing teeth, bones, or tissue. Procedures and types of dentistry that are classified as reconstructive dentistry include full mouth reconstruction, dental implant restorations, TMJ treatment, dental bridge placement, dental crown placement, inlays and onlays, and replacing old metal fillings. A general dentist can perform many of these procedures, but you should speak with the dentist prior to treatment to view samples of the doctor’s restorative dentistry results and previous full mouth reconstructions.
Full Mouth Reconstruction
If severe dental problems are causing you discomfort, you may be a good candidate for a full mouth reconstruction. A well-qualified general dentist can combine the aesthetics of cosmetic dentistry with the science of neuromuscular dentistry to perform a full mouth reconstruction. Orthodontic appliances can be used to help properly position your jaw. Once the jaw is properly aligned, relieving some of the pain caused by the TMJ syndrome, cosmetic and restorative dentistry procedures (porcelain veneers, dental crowns, bridgework, dental implants, and onlays) are completed. The result is an attractive, pain-free new smile.
Severe Dental Problems – Repairing Worn Teeth
Dental problems such as damaged and worn teeth not only detract from your mouth visually, but they also can affect the alignment of your teeth. The procedures used by a general dentist when repairing worn teeth will depend on the extent of your teeth’s damage. Generally, a crown can be placed over your damaged tooth to strengthen and reinforce the tooth. If there is a gap between your natural teeth, a dental bridge may be used to cover the gap. If you no longer have a natural tooth to which your dentist can secure a crown, a dental implant may be placed in your jaw to create the crown’s foundation.
TMJ Syndrome
TMJ syndrome is a disorder that affects your jaw’s temporomandibular joint, causing pain in your head and neck and a possible popping of your jaw when you chew. Most cases of TMJ syndrome are temporary and can be treated at home with over-the-counter pain medicines, compresses, and jaw exercises. If your dental problems persist, a general dentist will give you a treatment regime similar to the home-care treatment. They may then give you a bite plate or splint to ease the muscle tension. If these therapies do not work, your general dentist may have to perform more comprehensive procedures to relieve the discomfort.
Full Mouth Reconstruction vs. Smile Makeover – Which to Choose?
So how does full mouth reconstruction differ from smile makeover? A smile makeover is something that you elect to have performed, while a full mouth reconstruction is something that you need.
As the makers of dental materials respond to increasing consumer demands for beautiful, natural-looking dentistry, it is becoming hard to draw a line between purely “cosmetic” (such as elective) dentistry and “restorative” (necessary) dentistry. For example, it is now possible for your dentist to treat tooth decay with a tooth-like filling material that looks natural.
If you need full mouth reconstruction, the materials available today make it possible for your dentist to provide you with durable, functional and clinically sound treatments that also look natural.
It is also important to note that a smile makeover – though performed primarily to improve the esthetic appearance of the smile – requires the use of clinically proven dental materials and treatment techniques, as well as exceptional knowledge, training, and skill on the part of the dentist. Many of the same techniques and equipment used for full mouth reconstruction are also used to ensure the success and long-term stability of smile makeover treatments.