Will I Need Another Full-Mouth Reconstruction?

I paid $42k for a full-mouth reconstruction in 2023. My mouth is raw, chewing, hurts, and I have lost several crowns and veneers. I’m afraid that two of the dental implants are failing. How can I start over again? I’m sure I don’t have a choice. Thanks. Kofi from TX

Kofi,

We are sorry that you’re experiencing multiple problems with your full-mouth reconstruction. We know it’s frustrating.

The first step is to find a highly qualified dentist when faced with the need for dental implants and addressing previous cosmetic dental issues. Some dental practices may offer lower costs by taking shortcuts, but this can compromise your treatment. While you don’t have to choose the most expensive dentist, beware of unusually low fees because you may not get comprehensive care, which is essential for full-mouth reconstruction.

Finding a clinician with demonstrable skills in implant procedures and advanced cosmetic dentistry is essential. To identify a dentist who can meet these demanding needs, consider the following factors:

• Verification of Implantology Credentials: Look for dentists with advanced training and earned credentials from reputable implant organizations. A strong indicator of expertise is attaining fellowship or diplomate status from the International Congress of Oral Implantologists or the American Board of Oral Implantology (associated with the American Academy of Implant Dentistry). Training from American university implant programs or the Misch Implant Institute is also a higher level of qualification.
• Commitment to Careful Diagnosis: Pay attention to the thoroughness of the diagnostic process. For example, a dentist planning multiple implant placements should use a 3D CT scan to ensure precise implant placement.
• Assessment of Online Reviews: Check online patient reviews, especially on Google and Yelp, for mentions of clinical issues or positive experiences. Weigh individual reviews carefully because some dentists with limitations might still have enthusiastic supporters. Still, reviews are critical in choosing a dentist for full-mouth reconstruction.

Finding a Dentist Who Produces Cosmetic Excellence

The success of your treatment requires functional implants and beautifully crafted and durable crowns or porcelain veneers. Beyond the technical aspects of implant placement, your dental history requires an advanced cosmetic dentist who can correct your full-mouth rehabilitation and help you smile comfortably and confidently.

Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, a Rocky Hill, Connecticut dentist and Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, sponsors this post. Read how he strives to provide some of the best dental care in Rocky Hill.

 

What’s the Solution for My Jaw Stiffness and Weird Smile?

What’s the solution for my jaw stiffness and weird smile? My upper teeth don’t show when I smile unless I force my lips up. I am very self-conscious about it. I don’t know if my jaw, teeth, or lips are unbalanced because I have jaw pain even throughout the day. I wear a nightguard, which makes my mouth and lips feel better, but I can’t wear it all day. P and T words are particularly difficult to pronounce during cold weather because my jaw seems tight, and I can open it enough to enunciate. Is this something dental veneers would, correct? Are they my only option? – Thank you. Iris from Long Island

Iris,

Please find another dentist if your current one recommends porcelain veneers to resolve your concerns. Although porcelain veneers might improve your smile, they could worsen your jaw pain and pronunciation problems.

It sounds like your teeth are worn, resulting in an overclosed bite. This could cause jaw pain, tightness, and other symptoms related to TMJ disorder. Feeling better when you wear a nightguard further indicates that you might have an overclosed bite. However, a dentist trained in TMJ diagnosis and training can confirm it.

What’s the Treatment for an Overclosed Bite?

Instead of porcelain veneers to correct an overclosed bite, a dentist with advanced TMJ training will probably recommend full-mouth reconstruction. A skilled dentist may recommend combining treatments, such as dental crowns or implants.

Schedule Consultations

Finding a dentist with adequate training and experience can be tricky, so look for dentists with advanced training from one of these institutes:

• The Pankey Institute in Florida
• The Dawson Academy, also in Florida
• The Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies

If you find more than one dentist with the desired training, you can schedule consultations with at least two dentists to compare your options.

Rocky Hill, CT, dentist Dr. Thaddeus Michalski sponsors this post.

Why Do I have Jaw Tightness and Speech Issues?

My lips, teeth, mouth, and jaw feel most comfortable when I wear a night guard. I wonder if I may need braces. I do not like my smile because my upper teeth barely show when I smile. My jaw is tight, so some words are more difficult to pronounce.  Other than braces, what might be my treatment options? What should I ask for when I find a dentist? – Thank you. Doug from Salem, OR

Doug,

Thank you for your questions. We are glad that you contacted Dr. Michalski’s office. Although he would need to examine your teeth and take x-rays, it sounds like you may have a collapsed bite, TMJ disorder, or both.

What Is Causing Your Jaw Tightness and Speech Issues?

You may have TMJ disorder when you experience jaw tightness and speech complications. A collapsed bite can cause some of your symptoms. You may require a combination of dental procedures to resolve the symptoms. We recommend scheduling an appointment with a dentist experienced in full-mouth reconstruction. After a comprehensive exam, your dentist will determine whether your discomfort is only TMJ-related or if other factors are involved.

Resolving your dental problems requires complex restorative dentistry, but a dentist with advanced training can do it. The dentist’s adjustments to your bite should relieve your pain, improve your smile, and resolve your concerns with your speech. Opening your bite may require provisional restorations until a dentist achieves success in restoring your dental health. Afterward, the dentist will use a ceramist to make your final restorations. Your treatment options may include:

• Orthodontics
• Dental crowns
• Dental implants if you have missing teeth

We emphasize the importance of finding two dentists with advanced training in consultation, checking their reviews, and ensuring they do not have disciplinary actions from the state dental board. You will require complex, intricate dental work that requires great skill. Schedule a consultation with each dentist to discuss your concerns and treatment options.

 

Rocky Hill, Connecticut cosmetic dentist Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, sponsors this post.