Many different procedures fall under the umbrella of restorative dentistry, each with an important purpose. Dental crowns and bridges can replace a few missing teeth, while dentures can replace them all. Dental bonding and Bioclear can restore a broken tooth, and a root canal can resolve a deep tooth infection. But what do you do if you have so many damaged, infected, or missing teeth that just one of these processes isn’t enough to fix everything? This can be a pressing concern, as untreated oral health issues can lead to an increased risk for other diseases and conditions in the future. When several oral health problems need attention, we’ll perform a full mouth reconstruction. This comprehensive procedure combines any and all necessary dental procedures to rebuild your mouth completely.
What Is Full Mouth Reconstruction?
Full mouth reconstruction is similar to restoring a vintage car to its former glory. It’s a detailed, multi-step process that requires a careful, expert touch. This expert creates a customized plan for each situation, but always with an eye toward the finished product. Like a skilled mechanic restoring a classic car, Dr. Zirakian can bring your smile back to full function and beauty, ensuring everything works like new.
Various restorative procedures can contribute to a full mouth reconstruction. Because the process is so highly personalized for each patient, no two procedures look exactly the same.
Yet, with any comprehensive procedure like full mouth reconstruction, time is an important factor—nobody wants to be “under construction” for eternity. That’s why Dr. Zirakian often uses mini dental implants as a foundational component of his treatment plans.
Traditional dental implants require multiple visits, a potential bone graft, and a long healing period before the final restoration can be secured. On the other hand, mini implants are so sleek and streamlined that Dr. Zirakian can often place them in the jaw and attach prosthetic teeth in one visit. With mini dental implants, you save not only time but also avoid extended discomfort and the cost of extra appointments. If you’re the type of person who thinks time is money, mini implants are worth every penny.
How Mini Dental Implants Work
Mini dental implants are small titanium screws that anchor into your jawbone, providing a solid base for artificial teeth. For those who’ve felt the discomfort of loose teeth or unstable dentures, mini implants ensure your new teeth stay firmly in place. They function similarly to traditional implants but are much slimmer—they’re less than 3 mm wide, while a conventional implant is about 5 mm. Their small size enables Dr. Zirakian to place them in the jawbone using a simpler, minimally invasive technique. This means no incisions, less pain, and a quicker recovery. They can also be a viable option for those with less jawbone density.
For the procedure itself, Dr. Zirakian applies a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort and then creates a small pilot hole in the gums. Following this, he’ll carefully secure the implant to the jawbone, and temporary teeth can be immediately attached. You can alleviate any discomfort afterward with over-the-counter medication, but most patients typically feel back to normal in less than 48 hours. Within a few weeks, your final restoration will be ready, and you’ll return to our office so Dr. Ziakian can securely attach it to the implants.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Full Mouth Restoration?
Perhaps you have a few missing teeth or have suffered from some tooth decay or infection. How do you know if full mouth reconstruction is the right choice? Candidates for this procedure usually suffer from several problems, such as:
- Multiple missing, cracked, or broken teeth
- Extensive tooth decay
- Advanced gum disease
- Severely worn-down or eroded teeth due to excessive grinding
- Serious dental trauma
- Loose or broken tooth restorations
If you’re unsure whether you might qualify for this procedure, we invite you to schedule a free consultation with us. Dr. Zirakian can examine your teeth, take X-rays, and give you a better idea of how to achieve your oral health goals.
Insurance and Financing
The thought of the final bill can be daunting for a large-scale undertaking like full mouth reconstruction. However, at East Longmeadow Family Dental Center, we’ll do everything possible to make transformative procedures like this affordable to those who need them.
We will perform a complimentary insurance check to help you understand exactly what your dental insurance plan covers. We’ll also file an insurance claim on your behalf to help you maximize your benefits. For those who need financing assistance, we partner with multiple third-party lending companies that allow you to spread out your payments for a duration that works for your budget.
Start Planning Your Full Mouth Reconstruction Today
A full mouth reconstruction is a transformational process, but it must be performed by someone with experience and vision. Our dedicated team, led by Dr. Zirakian, is committed to providing you with the best dental care. We’ll work with you to understand your concerns and needs, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey to a beautiful and healthy smile.
If you are worried about your oral health, don’t wait! Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Zirakian.
