Full Mouth Rehabilitation corrects imperfections in bite position and enhances the appearance of the smile. Anyone with short, worn teeth or those that are chipped and broken throughout the mouth would be an excellent candidate. Combining the science of Neuromuscular Dentistry with the artistry of Cosmetic Dentistry, Full Mouth Rehabilitation creates a smile that is functional, comfortable and beautiful.
Neuromuscular Dentistry measures and determines the optimal position of the jaw. Once determined, the jaw position is corrected with the use of an orthotic (a virtually invisible appliance that fits over the top of the lower teeth, gently repositioning the jaw) or the application of dental restorations, including porcelain veneers, crowns or onlays. As an added benefit, the restorations are exceptionally attractive and strong, enhancing the smile beautifully.
Am I a Good Candidate for this procedure?
If you answer yes to any of the following statements, you are a candidate for Full Mouth Reconstruction:
Frequent headaches or migraines
Teeth are worn, chipped or cracked
Have facial, neck, shoulder and/or back pain
Unexplained congestion or stuffiness in my ears
Experienced limited jaw movement or have locking jaw
There are clicking or grating sounds in my jaw joints
Unexplained numbness in my fingers and arms
My dental restorations frequently crack, chip or break
Have pain or soreness around my jaw joints
Pain in my teeth that seems to move around
How is the procedure done:
Using advanced technology, the dentist measures the jaw's muscle function in both stressed and relaxed positions by running computerized scans.
If an imbalance is determined, the dentist will decide whether to treat with an orthotic appliance, or to fit the patient with dental restorations. The orthotic is a removable or fixed appliance that artificially builds up the patient's bite to a comfortable resting position. For patients that wish to eliminate the orthotic, full mouth restoration is often required.
After the orthotic has been worn for several weeks to several months, the jaw naturally drops into its most comfortable position. Only then can the doctor begin to restore the bite. He will use beautiful porcelain restorations that can raise or lower the bite to achieve the most comfortable jaw position. With this correction, patients experience decreased or eliminated pain and discomfort, and better overall health.
To help in the aesthetic portion of this procedure, your dentist may also use digital imaging technology to show you what your new smile will look like.
Recovery and Expectations:
Patients will be under the dentists care for up to 1 year. The orthotic gently and slowly repositions the bite, creating a naturally comfortable position. The patient's progress will be monitored on a regular basis.
Patients who are then fitted with dental restorations can expect recovery to be about the same as any dental procedure. The gums may be tender for a couple days after restorations are placed on the teeth. Over the counter anti-inflammatory medications can ease any discomfort.