FMR
Full mouth reconstruction, rehabilitation, and restoration are terms that are frequently used interchangeably to describe the process of rebuilding or restoring all of the teeth in both the upper and lower jaws at the same time.
Full mouth reconstruction is typically performed by general or restorative dentists (who perform procedures such as crowns, bridges, and veneers), but can also include dental specialists such as periodontists (who specialise in gums), oral surgeons, orthodontists (who specialise in tooth movements and positions), and endodontists (specializing in the tooth pulp).
Full mouth reconstruction may be required as a result of:
1. Teeth that have fallen out as a result of decay or trauma.
2. Teeth that have been fractured or injured.
3. Teeth that have been severely worn due to long-term acid erosion (foods, beverages, acid reflux) or tooth grinding
Ongoing complaints of jaw, muscle, and headache pain require bite adjustments (occlusion).
Full mouth reconstruction is typically performed by general or restorative dentists (who perform procedures such as crowns, bridges, and veneers), but can also include dental specialists such as periodontists (who specialise in gums), oral surgeons, orthodontists (who specialise in tooth movements and positions), and endodontists (specializing in the tooth pulp).
Full mouth reconstruction may be required as a result of:
1. Teeth that have fallen out as a result of decay or trauma.
2. Teeth that have been fractured or injured.
3. Teeth that have been severely worn due to long-term acid erosion (foods, beverages, acid reflux) or tooth grinding
Ongoing complaints of jaw, muscle, and headache pain require bite adjustments (occlusion).
How the Process Begins
If you believe you require reconstruction, consult your dentist for a thorough examination. Your dentist will examine your mouth to determine the extent of the problem and possible treatment options. He or she will specifically look at the state of your:
- Teeth
- Periodontal (gum) tissues
- Temporomandibular joints, jaw muscles and occlusion
- Esthetics
Teeth
Your teeth’s condition will determine whether you need porcelain veneers or full-coverage crowns, inlays or onlays, bridges or implants restored with a crown. Your dentist will specifically look for cavities and decay; tooth wear; cracks; short or long teeth; root canal issues; and tooth movement.
Periodontal (gum) tissues
Periodontal disease will most likely require scaling and root planning if your gums are not healthy. More intensive periodontal treatments may be required to ensure that your newly reconstructed teeth have a solid foundation. Soft tissue or bone grafts may be used in these treatments to strengthen your gums and the underlying jaw bone. Deep pockets, excessive or insufficient gum tissue, periodontal disease, and bone density irregularities will all be looked for by your dentist.
Temporomandibular joints, jaw muscles and occlusion
A stable bite is important for your overall oral health because it prevents pain when you close your mouth or chew and does not cause wear or destruction of your teeth. When your dentist plans your restorations, occlusal changes must be considered. In fact, orthodontics or another type of treatment (night guard or bite reprogramming orthotic) may be required to correct occlusion before further restorative procedures can be performed.
Esthetics
The colour, shape, size, and proportion of your teeth, as well as their relationship to your gums, lips, mouth, side profile, and face, are all important considerations in full mouth reconstruction.
The examination process requires the collection of records from your mouth, such as X-rays and photographs, as well as impressions of your upper and lower teeth, models of your teeth made from the impressions, and a model of your bite. Your dentist may also refer you to a specialist (periodontist, orthodontist, or oral surgeon) for a consultation to develop the best treatment plan for you.
After gathering all the relevant data, your dentist will devise a comprehensive, step-by-step treatment plan to correct all of the problems in your mouth and complete your reconstruction. If you don’t understand a procedure, request a detailed written description of the proposed treatment plan so you can review it. This can be useful if you need a second opinion. Make certain you are aware of the risks and benefits of the recommended procedures and treatments.
After gathering all the relevant data, your dentist will devise a comprehensive, step-by-step treatment plan to correct all of the problems in your mouth and complete your reconstruction. If you don’t understand a procedure, request a detailed written description of the proposed treatment plan so you can review it. This can be useful if you need a second opinion. Make certain you are aware of the risks and benefits of the recommended procedures and treatments.
Full Mouth Reconstruction vs. Smile Makeover
What is the difference between full mouth reconstruction and a smile makeover? A smile makeover is something you choose to have done, whereas a full mouth reconstruction is something you require.
As dental material manufacturers respond to rising consumer demand for beautiful, natural-looking dentistry, it is becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish between purely “cosmetic“ (elective) dentistry and “restorative“ (necessary) dentistry. For example, your dentist can now treat tooth decay with a tooth-like filling material that looks natural. If you require reconstruction, today’s materials allow your dentist to provide you with long-lasting, functional, and clinically sound treatments that also look natural.
It’s also worth noting that a smile makeover, while primarily performed to improve the aesthetic appearance of the smile, necessitates 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 in full mouth reconstruction are also used in smile makeover treatments to ensure their success and long-term stability.
As dental material manufacturers respond to rising consumer demand for beautiful, natural-looking dentistry, it is becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish between purely “cosmetic“ (elective) dentistry and “restorative“ (necessary) dentistry. For example, your dentist can now treat tooth decay with a tooth-like filling material that looks natural. If you require reconstruction, today’s materials allow your dentist to provide you with long-lasting, functional, and clinically sound treatments that also look natural.
It’s also worth noting that a smile makeover, while primarily performed to improve the aesthetic appearance of the smile, necessitates 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 in full mouth reconstruction are also used in smile makeover treatments to ensure their success and long-term stability.
