Full Mouth Reconstruction and Dental Implants
A full mouth reconstruction is a combination of multiple dental procedures that are designed to address various dental problems. Rather than just using a single procedure, a combination of restorative treatments will be used. Implant dentistry can play an important role in a full mouth reconstruction, with dentists using dental implants to help treat different degrees of tooth loss.
Dr. Jason Collier and the Southern Dental Implant Center team have performed numerous full mouth reconstruction procedures on patients from the greater Memphis, TN area. Let’s cover the basics of full mouth reconstruction and discuss how dental implants can be used in such procedures.
Good Candidates for Full Mouth Reconstruction
Good candidates for full mouth reconstruction are people who suffer from major dental health issues that one procedure alone cannot address. This includes fractured teeth, gum disease, acidic enamel erosion, and tooth loss.
Many times, full mouth reconstructions are recommended if a patient has neglected oral hygiene, avoided dental visits for years, or experienced serious trauma to the face and mouth.
When Dental Implants May Be Used
Dental implants may be used during a full mouth reconstruction when a patient is missing a tooth or multiple teeth. These artificial tooth roots are excellent for anchoring dental appliances in place.
While removable dental appliances are still common, the added level of stability from dental implants cannot be matched by even the best dental adhesives. The implant allow patients to laugh, smile, speak, bite, and chew just as they normally did.
Appliances That Dental Implants Can Support
Dental implants can be used to support the following:
- Dental Crowns - For people missing a single tooth, dental crowns are ideal for filling the gap securely.
- Dental Bridges - When patients are missing two or three teeth, an implant-supported bridge could be the ideal option.
- Partial Dentures - Partial dentures supported by dental implants are ideal for people who are missing many teeth in a row.
- Full Dentures - When a person is missing all of their teeth, a full denture anchored in place by dental implants can greatly enhance that patient’s overall dental health.
Pros and Cons of Dental Implants
The advantages of dental crowns are as follows:
- Dental implants are as stable as natural tooth roots
- Prevents bone loss and gum recession related to tooth loss
- Excellent aesthetics that make final outcomes appear natural
The disadvantages of dental crowns are as follows:
- Oral surgery is involved
- Healing and fusing of the implants takes months
- Expensive treatment given what is involved
Creating a Custom Reconstruction Plan
Dental implants may be an excellent part of your full mouth reconstruction. In order to find out, it’s important that you discuss these matters in greater detail with our dental care team. We can go over various treatments in greater detail to make sure you get a fully customized full mouth reconstruction that best meets your needs.
Learn More About Your Dental Treatment Options
If you would like more information about full mouth reconstruction treatment and your many other options for advanced dental care, be sure to contact our team of cosmetic and restorative dentists. The team at Southern Dental Implant Center is here to help. You can reach our office by phone at (901) 756-0078.