Do you have multiple issues going on that are taking away from the function and appearance of your smile? As frustrating as this may be now, you have many options that can help to transform your smile. In fact, you may benefit from a full mouth reconstruction. It may sound dramatic, but this is simply getting several different restorative and cosmetic procedures done at the same time. Continue reading to learn about some of the most common procedures this consists of.
Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are used in order to treat minor damage to the teeth. For example, small cavities can be repaired with a filling as well as some small fractures. The first step involves your dentist administering a local anesthetic if needed so that you feel comfortable throughout the duration of the treatment. Next, your dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any damaged parts and apply an acid gel to clean the area and remove lingering bacteria or debris. The filling material is then added to the tooth. This can be done with a variety of different materials including porcelain, amalgam, composite resin, and gold. Today, dentists typically use a tooth-colored composite resin for the most effective and natural looking results.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is used to save teeth that are damaged and ultimately eliminate discomfort. Once the area has been numbed with a local anesthetic, your dentist will make a small hole in your enamel and remove all of the damaged and infected tissue from the inside of your tooth. Afterwards, they will clean and sanitize the tooth to ensure that it is completely free from bacteria. Lastly, the tooth is filled with a biocompatible filling material.
Dental Crown
Getting a dental crown can be completed in just two appointments. First, a thin layer of enamel needs to be removed. This creates room for the crown to fit comfortably in your mouth and appear natural. An impression is then taken and sent to the dental laboratory where your crown will be crafted. Once it’s ready, you can return to the dental office to have it places.
Veneers
Dental veneers are thin shells of tooth-colored porcelain that are adhered to the front-facing surfaces of the teeth to mask cosmetic imperfections. The durable, natural-looking material used is able to conceal a single damaged tooth or a mouthful of cosmetic flaws. Generally, veneers are used to address teeth that are chipped, gapped, misaligned, misshapen, discolored, undersized, and more!
Dental Implant
Dental implants are generally made from titanium, and they look like tiny screws. During your placement procedure, your dentist will place them directly into your jawbone. Over the next couple of months, the implants will fuse to your bone in a process known as “osseointegration.” Permanent dental crowns will be placed on the end of each of your new implants. They are customized to be the exact size, shape, and color needed to blend in with the rest of your smile.
These are some of the more common treatments involved in a full mouth reconstruction, but there are many others out there as well. By scheduling a consultation and discussing your treatment options, you can create a plan that can best help you achieve the smile of your dreams!
About the Author
Dr. Jennifer Pham is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for over a decade now. She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Temple University School of Dentistry and is committed to continuing education and postgraduate training to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. This includes the renowned Las Vegas Institute of Neuromuscular and Restorative Dentistry, an advanced course in Invisalign, Laser Dentistry, Implant Dentistry, and Sedation Dentistry. To learn more about your options for full mouth reconstruction or to schedule a consultation at her office in Leesburg, visit her website or call (703) 666-3867.