Full mouth reconstruction isn't merely about aesthetics—it’s a marriage of cosmetic and functional dentistry. In this article Dr. Karina Acuña, sheds light on the procedure, aiming to dispel myths and arm patients with knowledge.
"Full mouth reconstruction is more than just restoring a smile; it's about comprehensive treatment. When patients come to me, often missing teeth or with severe wear and tear, they inherently understand that they need more than just a superficial fix," Dr. Acuña elucidates.
Patients often approach her, aware that they need something more than basic treatments.
“This week I had a patient who said, 'I am missing a couple of teeth and want to replace them.' But upon a clinical evaluation, the situation often reveals complexities like bite deviations or multiple missing teeth. This is more than just replacing a single tooth—it's about restoring the entire mouth," Dr. Acuña said.
The process is meticulous. Dr. Acuña begins with a comprehensive clinical evaluation, collecting a plethora of data ranging from internal and external pictures to X-rays and scans.
"We act as architects, designing the full structure. We decide if a tooth is restorable or needs extraction, where crowns, implants, or veneers should go," she explained.
The detailed blueprint might require patients to visit specialists like endodontists or surgeons before the final outcome can be achieved.
When asked how patients should prepare, Dr. Acuña highlights the importance of having a clear vision.
"Most patients have a semblance of what they want. They might say, ‘I like this artist's smile.' Based on the records we collect, we can create a mock-up to showcase the potential outcome," Dr. Acuña said.
Post-procedure recovery, according to Dr. Acuña, is streamlined due to the intricate planning and precision involved.
"Usually, when we place veneers, the bite is almost perfect. Occasionally, small adjustments might be necessary, but meticulous planning reduces post-op surprises," she said.
For those considering the procedure, Dr. Acuña's advice is unequivocal.
"Seek out prosthodontic dentists. While many dentists might offer single-tooth treatments or cosmetic services, full mouth reconstruction is an entirely different ballpark. It's a comprehensive journey, not just about veneers," she expressed.
Dr. Acuña also shared a story about a patient who initially approached her due to pain in one tooth, but the problem ended up being more deeply rooted than initially thought.
"After a clinical test, I realized there were fractured teeth. If I merely addressed the immediate pain without a full-mouth approach, all her teeth were at risk of fracturing.” Dr. Acuña said. “After explaining the situation, the patient underwent the necessary surgical procedure, and we finalized the treatment in just three months. Upon seeing the bigger picture, she understood and was grateful for the comprehensive care."
Full mouth reconstruction can be transformative, both aesthetically and functionally. But the key, as Dr. Acuña emphasizes, is in understanding its depth and seeking out specialists who can truly offer comprehensive care.
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