What Goes into Complete Oral Reconstruction?
If a dentist has recommended a complete oral reconstruction, you may be wondering what is involved and why it is necessary. The following is a comprehensive guide that will not only explain what a complete oral reconstruction is, but talk about why it is needed and what happens when one is being performed.
What is a Complete Oral Reconstruction?
When a patient needs to have all the teeth in the mouth rebuilt or restored, it is called a complete oral reconstruction. Rebuilding or restoring just a small section of teeth, for example just the teeth in the bottom jaw doesn’t classify as a complete oral reconstruction. In order for the process to be considered a complete oral reconstruction it needs to involve fixing, repairing, or rebuilding all the teeth in both the upper and lower jaw.
People often confuse a complete oral reconstruction with a smile makeover. These are two different procedures. A smile makeover is an optional procedure people have done to improve their smile while a complete oral reconstruction is done because there are considerable dental problems that need to be fixed.
Complete oral reconstruction goes by a number of different names. It can be called a full mouth reconstruction, full mouth rehabilitation, or full mouth restoration. The terms are all interchangeable and used to describe the same thing.
Who Needs a Complete Oral Reconstruction?
There are a number of different reasons why a person may need a complete oral reconstruction. Some of the most common reasons for needing this type of procedure include:
- Decay has caused damage or loss of teeth
- Trauma has caused tooth damage or loss
- Teeth have been cracked or fractured due to accidents
- Enamel of the teeth has become so eroded over time that the teeth are no longer protected. Erosion is caused by tooth grinding or consuming food or drink has a high acid content
- Failure to adjust the positioning of the jaw has caused stress to be placed on the teeth which caused extensive damage
What Procedures are Performed as Part of a Complete Oral Reconstruction?
The procedures that will be performed as part of a complete oral reconstruction will vary depending upon what needs to be done. Anything that helps to rebuild, restructure, or fix your teeth can be performed as part of a complete oral reconstruction.
Some of the procedures that may be performed include:
- Tooth extraction
- Fillings
- Root canals
- Professional cleanings
- Scaling and root planing
- Placement of dental implants
- Placement of crowns or bridges
- Surgical repositioning of the jaw
- Orthodontic treatment
- Gum contouring
What to Expect When Undergoing Complete Oral Reconstruction
It is important to remember undergoing a complete oral reconstruction is a very time-consuming process. It will not be completed in one visit. In fact, it can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months to complete depending upon the amount of work that needs to be done.
Before you even begin a complete oral reconstruction you will go through a consultation with your dentist. The consultation is designed to give you time to create a customized treatment plan, discuss concerns with your dentist, and get a general idea of what procedures will be performed.
When you arrive at your consultation, your dentist will do a complete exam to determine the condition of your mouth. While performing the exam your dentist will be looking at the condition of your teeth, the health of your gums, placement, and alignment of your jaw, and even overall esthetics of your smile. The information gathered will allow your dentist to create an entire treatment plan for your complete oral reconstruction.
In addition to a complete examination, the consultation may require the taking of x-rays, digital photos, and impressions. The types of things that need to be done will depend upon the type of treatment you will need for your complete oral reconstruction.
Once the examination is complete, you will sit down with your dentist to discuss what will be involved with your complete oral reconstruction. It is during this time that you will get a complete list of all treatment that is being recommended and you will receive an estimate for how long it will take for treatment to be completed.
Feel you need a complete oral reconstruction? Call Vero VIP Implants & Periodontics today to schedule a consultation for a complete oral reconstruction.