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.

 

See a Dentist or Oral Surgeon for Dentures and Implants?

Should I see a dentist or oral surgeon for immediate dentures and implants? I lost most of my teeth to gum disease and agreed with my dentist that extractions are best for the few remaining teeth. My dentist showed me 10 to 12 pictures of her patients’ dentures, but I don’t like how they look. I will switch dentists, but I wonder if I should see a dentist or oral surgeon first. My mouth is in such bad shape that I want to get this done as soon as possible, so the thought of immediate dentures makes sense. I would like to have this behind me by early fall. Thanks. Curtis

Curtis,

Should You See a Dentist or Oral Surgeon for Implant Dentures?

If you want implant dentures, we recommend searching for a dentist with advanced implant training who can remove your remaining teeth, place dental implants, and restore the implants with a custom denture. Teeth-in-a-Day and All-on-4 dental implants are fixed implant overdentures. You can get all the treatment you need in one location from one provider, eliminating miscommunication between an oral surgeon and restoring dentist who provides the denture.

However, completing your smile and preserving your oral health will take time. Avoid looking for a dentist who promises to meet your timeline rather than doing what’s best for your oral health and quality of life.

What Is an Immediate Denture?

An immediate denture is a removable denture for an entire arch of missing teeth. A dentist places the denture on the same day as tooth extractions. Still, before agreeing to any treatment, we recommend consulting with a periodontist (gum disease specialist) or a dentist with periodontal training to ensure your gums are healthy. However, you mentioned that you also want dental implants. So, the process will be different.

How Long Does It Take to Get Implant Dentures?

Getting implant dentures takes six months to a year, even longer if you need gum disease treatment first. If you qualify for dental implants, you may be interested in Teeth-in-a-Day or All-on-4 dental implants. You can get dental implants and temporary dentures in one visit. Your dentist will provide a custom final denture after your implant heal.

However, before you get implant dentures, a dentist will examine your mouth and take X-rays and a 3D CT scan to determine the following:

• Your gum health and whether you need periodontal treatment
• Your jawbone quality and volume
• Whether you need bone grafting before dentures and implants

The treatment you get from an implant dentist depends on your medal and dental history and the status of your oral health.

Schedule a consultation with a dentist with advanced implant training to get high-quality implant overdentures, including All-on-4 dental implants. The dentist will explain your treatment options for dentures and dental implants.

 

Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, a Rocky Hill, Connecticut dentist and Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologist, sponsors this post. He serves Hartford, Connecticut, and surrounding communities.