4 Steps To Full Mouth Reconstruction
Dental implants and dental bridges can be used to replace single teeth. However, sometimes patients need more extensive reconstructive work. Patients who are missing all of their teeth will require a full mouth reconstruction. This type of restorative treatment can allow dental patients to achieve a whole new smile. Full mouth reconstructions serve both an aesthetic and practical purpose. This type of treatment will allow patients to eat without struggling. It can also prevent jaw bone erosion and allow patients to smile without self-consciousness. Here are some of the steps you can expect to undergo when you choose this treatment:
1. Have weak and decayed teeth extracted
Some people who need full mouth reconstructions are already missing all of their teeth. However, other patients may still have weak and decayed teeth present in their mouths. Dentists typically try to save patients' natural teeth when they can. Unfortunately, some teeth are too damaged to be preserved. If your dentist believes that you're a good candidate for full mouth reconstruction, they will begin by extracting any remaining teeth in your mouth.
2. Attend imaging appointments
Prosthodontists are doctors who specialize in constructing dental prostheses for patients. People who plan to go undergo full mouth reconstruction can benefit from seeing this type of specialist. During your first appointment, you will have a consultation where your prosthodontist will help you consider your options. If you decide to undergo full mouth reconstruction, your dentist will take impressions, x-rays, and 3D images of your mouth. This information will help your dentist design a prosthesis that will fit you perfectly.
3. Undergo dental implant surgery
The next step in your treatment will be undergoing dental implant surgery. Dental implant surgery is used to replace the roots of patients' missing teeth. Like natural teeth roots, dental implants are placed directly into the jaw bone through the use of a dental drill. As the bone heals after the surgery, it will fuse to the titanium implant, creating a sturdy base for dental prostheses that will be added in the future.
4. Have prosthetic teeth attached to your dental implants
After your dental implants have fully healed, your prosthodontist will attach prosthetic teeth to your implants. When single teeth are replaced, dental crowns are typically used. However, full mouth restorations are usually accomplished with specialized dental bridges. These dental bridges will allow your dentist to replace all of your teeth using as few as four implants.
If you need a full mouth reconstruction, talk to a dentist near you.
Share