Full mouth reconstruction rebuilds or replaces most or all of the teeth in both the upper and lower jaws. Instead of fixing one tooth at a time, your dentist plans every restoration together so your teeth, gums, and bite work as one system.
What full mouth reconstruction means
The term describes a treatment plan, not a single procedure. A plan can combine crowns, bridges, dental implants, veneers, gum treatment, and bite therapy. Which of these you need depends on the condition of each tooth and of the bone and gum tissue that support it.
Function comes first. You should be able to chew comfortably, speak clearly, and keep your teeth clean. A natural looking smile follows from getting the structure right.
Who is a candidate
People usually reach this point after years of patchwork repairs. You may be a candidate if you have several of these problems at once.
- Several missing teeth, or teeth that will need to be removed
- Teeth worn short from grinding or acid erosion
- Many large fillings or crowns that keep breaking or decaying
- Teeth fractured in an accident or injury
- A bite that has collapsed or shifted, with jaw pain, headaches, or tired facial muscles
- Advanced gum disease that has loosened teeth
- A condition present since childhood that affected how your enamel or teeth formed
Reconstruction compared with a smile makeover
A smile makeover is elective and focuses on appearance. Reconstruction is driven by need. It treats damage and disease and restores a stable bite. Most reconstruction patients also end up with a smile they like far better, since the restorations that rebuild function are shaped and shaded to look natural.
Treatments your plan may include
- Dental implants to replace individual missing teeth
- Full arch dental implants when most teeth in a jaw cannot be saved
- Crowns and bridges to rebuild damaged teeth and close gaps
- Porcelain veneers for worn or chipped front teeth that are still strong
- Bite and TMJ treatment to give your new teeth a comfortable, stable position
Some plans also include gum therapy, root canal treatment, extractions, bone grafting, or orthodontics to move teeth into better positions before they are restored.
How long it takes
Most reconstructions take several months to a year. The timeline depends mostly on healing. Implants typically need a few months to bond with the jawbone before they can carry final teeth, and gum treatment needs time to settle. You wear temporary teeth during this period, so you are not left without a smile. Read about each stage in your treatment process.
What it costs
Cost depends on how many teeth are treated, the materials used, and whether implants or grafting are needed. You receive a written estimate before any treatment begins. See cost and financing for the details.
Start with a consultation
A consultation includes an exam, imaging, and a conversation about what you want from your teeth. You leave understanding your options, the order of treatment, and the cost. Request a consultation to get started.