Who it helps
This treatment is for people with problems across the upper and lower teeth that call for extensive restoration. Causes include injury from an accident, decay, wear from grinding, damage from habits, and gum disease that has led to lost teeth. It also helps people born with conditions that affect the teeth, such as amelogenesis imperfecta, dentinogenesis imperfecta or ectodermal dysplasia. Some people seek it mainly for cosmetic reasons, such as discoloration, wear, gaps or missing teeth.
Because some parts of the treatment involve surgery, such as implants or bone grafting, you generally need to be in good overall health. Other health issues may mean it is not an immediate option.
What treatment can include
No two reconstructions are alike. Your plan is built from the treatments you need, which may include:
- Dental crowns and fillings to repair damaged or decayed teeth
- Root canal treatment to save infected teeth
- Dental bridges and dentures
- Dental implants to replace missing teeth
- Veneers and gum contouring to refine appearance
- Tooth extractions, and soft tissue or bone grafting where needed
In broad terms, a reconstruction either restores your existing teeth, saving as many natural ones as possible, or replaces the remaining teeth with a full set of implant-supported teeth. We start with the most essential treatments and move on to the cosmetic ones. Everything is discussed with you at your consultation.
Upper or lower only
Sometimes treating just the upper or lower teeth is enough. The approach is similar either way, although the lower jaw is more likely to need bone grafting if it is badly weakened. Even without implants, some rebuilding of the jawbone and gums may be needed for a healthy smile.
When the focus is appearance
Many people with misaligned or gapped teeth choose a cosmetic version of this treatment. Veneers can close gaps and change the size, shape and color of teeth, crowns can cover discolored or misshapen teeth, and gum contouring improves the smile line. If your teeth are healthy but you want to change how they look, a smile makeover may be a better fit.
Why it matters
Significant tooth damage or tooth loss can raise the risk of oral and general health problems. Restoring the whole mouth can improve how it looks and works, and may help with problems that range from headaches to difficulty chewing.
Common questions
How much does it cost?
The cost depends on which treatments you need and how many. Check what your dental plan covers, and our team can help you work through the process.
How long does it take?
It follows your treatment plan and can take several months, or up to a year, to complete all the steps.
Who is a good candidate?
People with several dental problems affecting function and appearance, including broken, missing or worn teeth. Certain medical conditions can also call for a complete reconstruction.
Which treatments are involved?
Any combination of crowns, fixed bridges, partial or full dentures, root canal therapy, implant-supported teeth, extractions and grafting. It depends on your oral health.