At Implant & General Dentistry of Long Island, we specialize in full-mouth reconstruction – a transformative solution for individuals with multiple dental issues.
Whether you have severely worn, damaged, or missing teeth, Dr. Dean Glasser, who has placed over 10,000 cosmetic restorations since 1985, and Dr. Renee Glasser offer custom treatment plans to restore your appearance and dental health.Â
In such situations, the patients dental outcome will be determined by the knowledge and expertise of an experienced dental team. As a Dental University Professor, we strive to provide such Dental excellence. Call Dr. Deal Glasser today at 631-423-6767 to schedule your Full Mouth Reconstruction consult!
What is Full-Mouth Reconstruction?
Full-mouth reconstruction is a process of dental treatment that restores function, facial form, bilateral symmetry, and one's smile. It may involve multiple disciplines, including periodontal, endodontic, oral surgery, restorative, cosmetic, and orthodontic techniques. The end result is a comprehensive solution that addresses the patient's needs.
Full-Mouth Reconstruction vs. Smile Makeover
A smile makeover enhances the smile's aesthetics but does not necessarily involve reconstructing the patient's entire mouth. On the other hand, full-mouth reconstruction can improve form and function to restore the smile. Depending on the application, our providers use various materials to address strength, durability, and aesthetics.
What Happens During a Full-Mouth Reconstruction?
Every patient's experience with full-mouth reconstruction is unique. However, the process generally begins with the following steps.
Consultation and Examination
The first step in full-mouth reconstruction is a comprehensive consultation and examination. We often measure the shape, contour, and color of your teeth and your gums' overall condition and health. We also measure your bite and the orientation of your teeth relative to your face, providing more insight into malocclusion and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Records and Models
Imaging, whether achieved radiographically, through cone beam, or CT scan technology, provides information needed to begin planning reconstructive care. Routine X-rays, photographs, and other imaging can also assess various structures in the mouth, including teeth roots and the underlying jaw structure.
Treatment Planning
After evaluating all the data gathered during the consultation, exam, and imaging, Dr. Dean Glasser or Dr. Renee Glasser will develop a thorough treatment plan. We will break this plan into a step-by-step guide outlining the most appropriate combination of treatments to achieve optimal oral health and an attractive smile.
How Long Does Full-Mouth Reconstruction Take?
Full-mouth reconstruction typically occurs over several months, depending on the patient's needs. This enables patients to address immediate dental concerns without foregoing treatment of their functional and esthetic needs. In short, we prioritize the patients' problems and address them accordingly.
Ideal Candidates for Full-Mouth Reconstruction
The ideal candidates for full-mouth reconstruction include individuals who have:
- Extensive Tooth Loss: People who have lost several teeth due to decay, trauma, or gum disease.
- Severe Tooth Damage: Those with teeth worn down by bruxism (teeth grinding), acid erosion, or other factors that impact function and appearance.
- Multiple Dental Issues: Individuals with a combination of cavities, fractured teeth, missing teeth, or gum disease.
- History of Dental Trauma: Patients who have suffered severe teeth, jaw, or facial structure injury.
- Advanced Periodontal Disease: Individuals with significant gum disease that has led to tooth loss.
- Congenital or Developmental Conditions: People with genetic conditions, such as amelogenesis imperfecta or ectodermal dysplasia.
Dental Implant Options
Dental implants may be a viable option depending on the patient's individual reconstructive needs. These restorations are used in a variety of dental situations, including:
- Single-tooth restoration using an implant and a dental crown.
- Multiple-tooth replacement using one or more implants and a dental bridge.
- Complete upper or lower jaw replacement using multiple dental implants for full arch rehabilitation.
Other Considerations
Depending on the amount of structural and foundational support your jaw has available, additional bone augmentation and surgeries may be required to promote the long-term success of your treatment.
Our providers have seen and successfully treated patients with little to no bone support resulting from years of periodontal disease, tooth loss, and medical complications such as radiation treatment and surgical resections. We can regenerate or grow new bone through various techniques and grafting procedures to give you back that essential foundational support.
FAQs
Not all patients undergoing full-mouth reconstruction will need extractions. However, in some cases, removing compromised teeth is necessary for optimal, long-term oral health.
Reasons for tooth extraction include:
- Severe Decay or Infection: If a tooth has extensive decay that a filling, crown, or root canal cannot restore, extraction may be the best option.
- Advanced Gum Disease (Periodontitis): Teeth affected by severe periodontal disease may become loose and need removal.
- Extensive Damage or Fractures: Teeth broken at or below the gum line may not be salvageable.
- Non-Restorable Teeth: If previous dental work has failed or the tooth has had repeated treatments without success, it may be better to extract and replace it.
- Malpositioned or Overcrowded Teeth: In some cases, misaligned teeth or those causing bite issues may need removal.
- Preparation for Dental Implants: If you need dental implants as part of your reconstruction, damaged or nonviable teeth may require removal.
Depending on your treatment plan, extractions may be performed in stages. Dr. Dean Glasser or Dr. Renee Glasser may recommend bone grafting after extraction to preserve the jawbone structure for future restorations.
Healing time varies for every patient. However, some may be able to receive immediate implants or temporary restorations after extractions.
Dr. Dean Glasser and Dr. Renee Glasser aim to save natural teeth whenever possible. If a tooth's structure is sound, they may use treatments such as root canals, crowns, or fillings instead of extraction.
Full-mouth reconstruction can improve TMJ disorder and chronic jaw pain by restoring proper bite alignment and function. Misaligned teeth, missing teeth, or an uneven bite can strain the temporomandibular joint. This may lead to discomfort, headaches, and difficulty chewing.
By incorporating customized restorations, full-mouth reconstruction helps redistribute bite forces and reduces stress on the jaw. A well-balanced bite can relieve muscle tension, improve jaw function, and enhance comfort.
Why Choose Implant & General Dentistry of Long Island?
At Implant & General Dentistry of Long Island, we provide exceptional full-mouth reconstruction in a caring and respectful manner.
Dr. Dean Glasser – a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and attending at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center – leads our practice alongside Dr. Renee Glasser, a highly awarded graduate of Stony Brook University.
Our team uses advanced technology to deliver cutting-edge care in our ultramodern office. Patients trust us for comprehensive, customized solutions that restore function, aesthetics, and confidence.
Schedule Your Full-Mouth Reconstruction Consultation Today
If you want to learn more about full-mouth reconstruction or determine whether you are a candidate for the procedure, schedule a consultation at our Long Island office!
Call 631-423-6767 today or fill out our appointment request form on the contact page. We serve patients in Melville and the surrounding Suffolk County area.
