COSMETIC TOWN JOURNAL



Expert Doctor

Full Mouth Revitalization

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David Frey, DDS

Beverly Hills, CA

Full Mouth Revitalization

Full Mouth Revitalization, or FMR, is a cosmetic dentistry procedure which provides a total tooth makeover. The procedure uses various treatments and serves to improve the patient’s bite. FMR can repair and shape each tooth with veneers, crowns or implants to reduce neuromuscular symptoms due to a misaligned bite. Some of the symptoms caused by a misaligned bite include headaches, neck pain, facial or jaw pain, shoulder pain, dizziness and ringing in the ears. This type of treatment is also known as Full Mouth Reconstruction, or a Smile Makeover, and can include whitening the teeth for a brighter smile. Therefore, FMR is for both functional purposes and aesthetic results.

Am I a Good Candidate for Full Mouth Revitalization?

A GOOD CANDIDATE for Full Mouth Revitalization includes:

  • Male or female patients who wish to improve their smile and bite
  • A patient with dental imperfections such as cracks, chips or missing teeth
  • Patients who have teeth that are worn down due to bruxism or teeth grinding
  • Any patient who wishes to improve the size and shape of their teeth
  • A patient who suffers with extensive tooth decay
  • Patients who want stronger head and neck muscles by properly aligning the bite
  • Patients who have poor posture or breathing difficulties due to the alignment of the jaw

The following patients are NOT GOOD CANDIDATES for FMR:

  • Patients who are currently suffering from active gum disease
  • A patient who has an infected tooth or teeth
  • A patient who doesn’t have enough natural tooth structure may not be ideal for dental crowns
  • A patient with insufficient jawbone density may not be eligible for dental implants

How is Full Mouth Revitalization Performed?

Full Mouth Revitalization depends on the patient’s goals and the condition of the teeth. FMR is often performed under oral or IV sedation since the treatments can be very time consuming and the patient may feel anxious or uncomfortable during certain treatments.

The dentist will begin by examining the teeth and gums and taking X-rays. A restoration plan will be decided during the first visit. The procedure is typically performed during two or more major sessions.

During the first session, the teeth chosen for enhancements, such as veneers or crowns, are prepared. While the dentist may have to remove about ½ millimeter of the natural enamel on the tooth’s surface to make room for a veneer, most of the enamel must be shaved down to a thimble shape for a crown. Patients with crooked teeth may need to have the portion of tooth sticking out more than the rest shaved down. Any dental caries (tooth decay) are filled using ceramic materials, bonded directly to the tooth’s structure, and seals so bacteria is not able to infiltrate the tooth. This also serves to strengthen the existing tooth structure. The ceramic has a more natural appearance and can easily be matched to the tooth’s color. If teeth whitening treatments are part of the plan, this would need to be done first since ceramics are resistant to teeth whitening treatments. A temporary set of teeth will be created so the lab can fabricate the patient’s new teeth and smile.

The second session involves permanently bonding the final porcelain restoration into the mouth. To permanently bond the material, the dentist will use dental cement and a special light which activates the chemical and hardens it quickly. Then, the dentist will evaluate the bite and make any necessary adjustments. The bite may feel different for a few days but the patient will get used to it. A bite that feels uncomfortable, or off, several days after treatment should be reevaluated by the dentist.

Patients who are having dental implants may require multiple sessions to surgically implant a rod into the jawbone of the missing tooth or teeth. There is a substantial healing period of several months to allow the implant to fuse to the bone and gums. The pontic, or false tooth created in a lab, will attach to the rod with an abutment. The pontic is strong, functional and natural looking.

What is the Cost of Full Mouth Revitalization?

The cost of FMR depends on several factors including the condition of the teeth, gums and bite. These aspects can influence the type of treatment needed to improve the condition. The cost also depends on the type of material used for the veneer or crown, how many teeth are being restored and if teeth whitening treatments will be performed in conjunction with the other treatments.

Teeth whitening treatments can cost anywhere from $200 to $1000 depending on how many sessions are needed to gain the desired results. Crowns can cost $400-$3000 and veneers can cost $1200 to $2500 per tooth. Dental implants can cost around $1300 to $2000 per tooth. When cosmetic dentistry is for functional purposes, a portion of the cost may be covered under health insurance. If the treatment is purely cosmetic, it will be an out-of-pocket cost.

Recovery and Downtime

RECOVERY after Full Mouth Revitalization depends on the extent of the treatment. The teeth may be sensitive to changes in temperature and the gums may be sore. However, over-the-counter medications are usually sufficient to help with discomfort. For sensitivity issues, patients should use caution with hot and cold beverages for the first few days. Anti-sensitive toothpaste can also be used to minimize discomfort.

There is no DOWNTIME after teeth whitening, crowns or veneers and patients may resume all normal activities immediately after treatment. However, a patient receiving dental implants may need a few days to recover after the implantation surgery. During the first few days, patients should keep their head elevated and use cold compresses and pain medication for discomfort. The mouth should be rinsed with saltwater 2-3 times a day to keep the area clean. Bending, lifting or strenuous activity should be avoided during the first week since these actions can increase bleeding and swelling.

Results  

The results after Full Mouth Revitalization are immediate. Patients will notice better shaped teeth and a more pleasing smile. The teeth will look and feel much better. Furthermore, most people gain confidence in their smile and show an overall improvement with self-confidence. Full Mouth Revitalization results can last up to 10 years or more depending on how well the patient practices proper oral care.

Patients should maintain excellent oral hygiene by gently brushing 2-3 times a day using non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. Flossing daily is also very important since removing plaque and debris can increase the lifespan of the restoration and prevent tooth decay around the restoration. Patients who grind their teeth at night should be fitted with a night guard to prevent further damage to the natural teeth and any restorations. Patients should avoid biting objects with the front teeth, and chewing on hard objects, since this can break, chip or damage the restorations.

Limitations of Full Mouth Revitalization

The limitations involved with Full Mouth Revitalization include:

  • The ability to whiten the teeth after restorations are placed
  • Patients with active gum disease or an infection are limited from dental restorations until the condition is treated
  • Patients with an inadequate amount of enamel may be limited from veneers
  • Patients with insufficient bone density may be limited from dental implants without bone grafting
  • Patients with weakened teeth or large dental fillings may be limited from veneers

Risks of Full Mouth Revitalization

The risks involved with Full Mouth Restoration include:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Gum irritation
  • Allergic reaction to the anesthetic or restorative material
  • Difference in coloration of the natural teeth and restoration
  • Chipping, cracking or breaking of the restoration

Revitalizing and Restoring the Teeth

Full Mouth Revitalization can repair, restore, reshape and strengthen the teeth while improving health and functionality. It can also improve the patient’s bite and eliminate common symptoms created by misalignment. The effects of Full Mouth Revitalization can help a patient gain confidence and a better smile. Patients thinking about having Full Mouth Revitalization should consult with an experienced, and board-certified, dentist who addresses issues of functionality as well as the aesthetics of the teeth.

Written by Cosmetic Town Editorial Team- MA

Based on an exclusive interview provided by Dr. David Frey in Beverly Hills, CA.