Full-mouth rehabilitation, restoration or reconstruction is a process used in restorative dentistry to rebuild or restore the teeth in the upper and lower jaws. A full-mouth reconstruction process can generally be performed by either a general or a restorative dentist and may involve other specialists, including oral surgeons, periodontists, endodontists, cosmetic dentists and orthodontists, among others. Patients who have lost teeth after a trauma, due to decay or periodontal disease, or those who are suffering from severe TMJ disorder or other complaints as a result of bite or jaw disorders may be candidates for full-mouth restorations.

The mouth is incredibly complex, and the relationship between the soft tissues of the mouth and the teeth and bones is finely balanced. If your gums, muscles or other tissues of your mouth become misaligned or your bite is off, your teeth can become worn, your muscles sore and you can develop headaches and other pain. Full-mouth reconstruction can restore comfort and a healthy, balanced smile.

If you are a candidate for a full-mouth reconstruction, your dentist will first provide you with a comprehensive evaluation. During this appointment, your oral health will be fully assessed, and you will be fully apprised of any appropriate treatment options, which may include inlays or onlays, dental crowns and dental bridges, dental implants, dental veneers or dentures.

Your dentist will carefully consider the shape, size, proportion and even color of your teeth in order to determine the best way to reconstruct your smile. The exam will commonly include dental X-rays and other images and dental impressions so that your dentist and any specialists who are involved can develop an accurate, suitable treatment plan.

There may be several stages to the full-mouth reconstruction process, and it may take weeks or months, depending on the procedures and treatments you need. Some of the more common treatments involved in a full-mouth reconstruction include periodontal care, gum contouring, preparation of tooth structure for crowns or dental veneers, temporary restorations, orthodontics, dental implant procedures, tissue grafting and more.

Many of your options will vary depending on your dental health. For example, gum disease will need to be treated before your dentist will be able to proceed. That is because the success of future procedures will depend largely on the health of your teeth and gums and the foundation upon which the restorations have been placed.

A full-mouth reconstruction is not the same procedure as a smile makeover in that the former is considered a matter of necessity and is intended to restore function to your mouth whereas a smile makeover is a cosmetic procedure that enhances your appearance and is an elective procedure. Each full-mouth reconstruction is as unique as the individual seeking it, and costs can vary greatly.

Visit www.WilshireDentalCare.com for more information about full mouth reconstruction. Our Los Angeles dentist offers different treatments that can repair the damages to your teeth and gums and restore their form and fuction.