Full-Mouth Restorations

Full-mouth restoration in Houston, TX, also known as full-mouth reconstruction or rehabilitation, is a comprehensive dental treatment plan that involves rebuilding or restoring all of the teeth in both the upper and lower jaws. This complex and customized process addresses extensive dental issues, including severe decay, damage, tooth loss, and problems with the jaw or bite alignment. It's not a single procedure but a combination of restorative, cosmetic, and sometimes surgical dental procedures aimed at improving the function, health, and appearance of a patient's entire mouth. This treatment is often recommended for individuals with significant dental problems, such as:

• Extensive Tooth Decay: When multiple teeth are severely decayed and cannot be restored with simple fillings.
• Tooth Loss: Missing several teeth, affecting both function and appearance.
• Worn or Damaged Teeth: Teeth that are worn down, chipped, or fractured due to habits like grinding (bruxism) or due to trauma.
• Bite Issues: Problems with bite alignment, such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, which can cause discomfort and lead to further dental issues.
• Gum Disease: Advanced periodontal disease that has led to tooth loss or damage to the supporting structures of the teeth.
• Jaw Pain or TMJ Disorders: Conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint, leading to pain, discomfort, or difficulty in chewing.

The Full-Mouth Restoration Process in Houston, TX

The process of full-mouth restoration begins with a thorough examination and consultation with Dr. Lawton. Here's what patients can expect during the entire process:

Initial Consultation and Comprehensive Examination

The first step involves a detailed consultation with Dr. Lawton, where he will discuss your dental concerns, goals, and medical history. A comprehensive dental examination follows, which may include:

• X-rays: To evaluate the condition of your teeth, roots, jawbone, and surrounding structures.
• Impressions: To create models of your teeth and bite, which helps in planning the restoration.
• Photographs: To document the current state of your teeth and gums.
• Periodontal Examination: To assess the health of your gums and identify any signs of periodontal disease.
• Occlusal Analysis: To evaluate your bite and identify any issues with jaw alignment or tooth positioning.

Personalized Treatment Plan

Based on the findings from the examination, Dr. Lawton will create a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan will outline the recommended procedures, the sequence in which they will be performed, and the estimated timeline for completion. The treatment plan may include a combination of the following procedures:

• Dental Crowns: To restore and protect damaged or decayed teeth.
• Bridges: To replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth.
• Dental Implants: To replace missing teeth with implant-supported crowns, bridges, or dentures.
• Veneers: To enhance the appearance of the front teeth by covering imperfections.
• Inlays and Onlays: To restore teeth with moderate decay or damage that do not require a full crown.
• Periodontal Therapy: To treat gum disease and restore the health of the gums and supporting structures.
• Root Canal Therapy: To treat infected or damaged teeth, preserving them from extraction.
• Extractions: To remove teeth that are too damaged to be restored.
• Jaw Surgery: In cases of severe bite alignment issues or TMJ disorders. 

Phased Treatment Approach

Full-mouth restoration is typically carried out in phases, with each phase focusing on specific aspects of the treatment plan. This approach allows for careful monitoring of progress and adjustments as needed. The phased approach may include:

• Phase 1: Preparation and Stabilization: This phase may involve treating any active infections, extracting non-restorable teeth, and addressing gum disease to create a healthy foundation for further treatments.
• Phase 2: Restorative Procedures: This phase focuses on restoring damaged teeth with crowns, fillings, inlays, onlays, or veneers. Missing teeth may be replaced with implants or bridges.
• Phase 3: Cosmetic Enhancements: Once the functional aspects are addressed, cosmetic procedures such as veneers or teeth whitening may be performed to enhance the appearance of the smile.

Final Adjustments and Maintenance

After completing the full-mouth restoration, Dr. Lawton will make any necessary final adjustments to ensure a comfortable bite and natural appearance. Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor the success of the restoration and address any potential issues. Maintenance is crucial to preserving the results of the restoration, which includes routine dental checkups, cleanings, and proper oral hygiene practices at home. Call us to learn more.

Benefits of Full-Mouth Restorations in Houston, TX

Full-mouth restorations offer a wide range of benefits, including:

Improved Oral Health

By addressing all dental issues simultaneously, full-mouth restoration significantly improves oral health. It helps eliminate decay, infection, and gum disease, reducing the risk of future dental problems.

Enhanced Functionality

Restoring damaged or missing teeth improves the ability to chew, speak, and bite properly. This leads to better overall oral function and comfort.

Aesthetic Improvement

Full-mouth restoration not only restores function but also enhances the appearance of the smile. Procedures such as veneers, crowns, and teeth whitening create a more attractive and youthful appearance.

Increased Confidence

A beautiful, healthy smile can boost self-confidence and improve quality of life. Patients who undergo full-mouth restoration often experience a renewed sense of self-esteem.

Long-Term Results

With proper care and maintenance, the results of a full-mouth restoration can last for many years. This investment in oral health and appearance provides long-term benefits and reduces the need for future dental work.

What to Expect After a Full-Mouth Restoration in Houston, TX

After completing a full-mouth restoration, patients can expect a significant improvement in both the function and appearance of their teeth. However, it's important to follow Dr. Lawton's instructions for post-treatment care to ensure the longevity of the results. This may include:

• Regular Dental Checkups: Continue to schedule routine dental visits for cleanings and examinations to monitor the health of your teeth and gums.
• Proper Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene habits at home, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash as recommended.
• Dietary Considerations: Avoid foods and drinks that could damage your restorations, such as hard or sticky foods, and limit sugary snacks and beverages.
• Protective Measures: If you grind your teeth at night, Dr. Lawton may recommend wearing a nightguard to protect your restorations from damage.

Conclusion

Full-mouth restoration is a comprehensive approach to addressing multiple dental issues, restoring both the function and aesthetics of a patient's smile done by the expert dentists in Houston, TX. At Mark E. Lawton DDS in Houston, TX, Dr. Mark E. Lawton offers expert full-mouth restorations tailored to each patient's unique needs. Whether you're dealing with extensive decay, tooth loss, or bite alignment issues, full-mouth restoration can provide a lasting solution that improves oral health, functionality, and confidence. If you're considering full-mouth restoration, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lawton to explore your options and begin your journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile.

Experience exceptional dental care with Dr. Mark E. Lawton in Houston! At our office, located at 13236 Northwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77040, we offer a range of services to meet your dental needs. Call us today at 281-447-2186 to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, more beautiful smile.