If you have a few different things going on with your smile, your dentist may recommend that you undergo full mouth reconstruction. This may sound dramatic, but it just means that you will undergo a combination of different restorative procedures to work toward a healthier smile. This process is typically more conservative than having several standalone procedures, but there is still a recovery period to keep in mind. Here is what you can expect from a variety of common treatments.
Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are used to repair teeth with mild to moderate decay or damage. In most cases, fillings can be completed in a single visit to the dental office. After the procedure, you can return to your normal activities immediately. It may take an hour or so for the local anesthetic to wear off, but once it does, you should feel just like your normal self again!
Dental Crowns/Bridges
Custom restorations usually take two office visits to complete. During your first appointment, the teeth are prepared, and impressions are taken. During your second appointment, you will be fitted with your new restoration. Some patients report some sensitivity in the days following their procedure, but you should be able to resume normal activities on the same day.
Root Canal Therapy
This treatment is necessary when the pulp of the tooth becomes infected. In this process, your dentist will remove the nerves and blood vessels from inside the tooth, disinfect the area, and seal it with a filling. In a lot of cases, a crown is also added for additional protection. Following this common procedure, many patients notice sensitivity in the tissues around the tooth. There may also be some minor swelling and inflammation, but these side effects will go away after a couple of days.
Tooth Extractions
Extractions are never your dentist’s first option, but sometimes they are needed to preserve the health of the rest of your smile. After your extraction, it can take a few days for the gum tissue to close back up over the socket where your tooth used to be. Most patients are able to return to their normal schedule after three to five days. Take recommended over-the-counter and prescribed medications as directed by your dentist and get plenty of rest.
Dental Implants
This tooth replacement option can last 30+ years with proper maintenance. During this procedure, the implants are placed directly into the jawbone. Once they heal, they’re able to support crowns, bridges, or dentures. Since the bone tissue needs to fuse to the implant, it can take four to six months to complete the process. However, you should be able to return to your normal activities after just a few days.
By closely following the instructions of your dentist, your smile will be good as new in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Suzanne Najjar earned her dental doctorate from Nova Southeastern University and has undergone advanced dental implant training from the Advanced Dental Implant Research and Implant Center, one of the world’s leading institutions. Currently, she is a proud member of the American Dental Association and Texas Dental Association. For more information on full mouth reconstruction or to schedule an appointment at her office in DeSoto, visit her website or call (972) 230-1100.