The Line Between Full Mouth Reconstruction and Smile Makeover Is Blurry

Full mouth reconstruction vs. smile makeover

Full Mouth Reconstruction vs. Smile Makeover 

Your mouth’s health status directly impacts your mental, physical, and social health. When you don’t love your smile, feeling confident out in the world can be a challenge. But with the right dentist in Newport Beach completing the best dental work, many aspects of your life can change for the better. 

You can improve your smile’s health, function, and appearance with customized treatment like an aesthetic smile design or full mouth reconstruction. Although these treatments sound similar, each has its own purpose. 

Many patients ask which is better when it comes to full mouth reconstruction vs. smile makeover. But the truth is, it depends on your individual needs.

Full mouth reconstructions and smile makeovers are both extensive dental treatment options that view oral health as of primary importance. They can include some of the same procedures, making them seem like the same treatment altogether. 

The results of each treatment can also share similarities. For example, while a full mouth reconstruction isn’t about cosmetics, it still results in a beautiful smile. A smile makeover doesn’t focus on restorative treatment or on curing disease, but it will produce structurally sound restorations.   

What is a smile makeover? 

A smile makeover is a specialized treatment plan from a qualified cosmetic dentist like Dr. Desai in Newport Beach, California. Its design is to treat multiple cosmetic issues affecting your smile. Misaligned, uneven, stained, or chipped teeth can disappear with the magic of a smile makeover. 

Treatment for a Smile Makeover 

Being unhappy with your smile can lead to low self-esteem. But with a smile design, your dentist can address cosmetic concerns. A smile makeover aims to enhance your smile’s overall appearance without compromising the function of the teeth.  

Routine treatments a dentist performs during a smile makeover can include: 

  • Orthodontics
  • Porcelain veneers, crowns, and bridges  
  • Dental bonding
  • Teeth whitening
  • Gum contouring 
  • Tooth-colored fillings 

A smile makeover aims to meet the specific aesthetic needs of an individual patient. It may include one or a combination of the above treatments. The result will be a beautiful, structurally sound smile that enhances a patient’s oral health, even though its primary purpose is cosmetic.  

What is a full mouth reconstruction? 

A full mouth reconstruction rebuilds a mouth that has essentially broken down from disease and broken or missing teeth. This type of dental work is common for those requiring a significant amount of restoration. 

The need to have extensive restorative treatment may result from many factors, such as: 

  • Trauma, decay, or gum disease 
  • Failing restorations  
  • Fractures or extreme wear
  • Acid erosion
  • Bruxism
  • Genetic disorders 
  • Oral cancer treatment 

Dental problems stemming from these issues can only be treated partially without a full mouth reconstruction.   

Treatment for a Full Mouth Reconstruction 

Like a smile makeover, a full mouth reconstruction is a personalized treatment plan that meets each patient’s unique needs, but with a focus more centered on restoring oral function and optimal dental health.  

Common procedures included in full mouth reconstruction plans are: 

  • Dental crowns, bridges, inlays, and onlays 
  • Porcelain veneers
  • Endodontic therapy (root canals)
  • Oral surgery
  • Fillings
  • Dentures 
  • Periodontal therapy 
  • Dental implants
  • Implant-supported dentures 
  • Orthodontics 
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) treatment 

These treatment options are ideal for patients who suffer from infections, bruxism, and TMJ disorders. 

Which treatment is right for you? 

When you look at your smile, do you notice minor cosmetic flaws like stains, unevenness, and chips? Or do you see broken, decayed, or missing teeth? 

Full mouth reconstruction is best for patients whose problems stem from oral health issues. If you only have cosmetic concerns that don’t impact your health, a smile makeover is better for your situation. However, a smile makeover can address some straightforward dental health issues, like cavities.    

Who should you see for your treatment? 

Regardless of which treatment you need, it’s important to seek out an experienced cosmetic dentist. 

Factors like the continuing education courses they’ve completed and how long they’ve been practicing are noteworthy. Any dentist dedicated to continually improving their skills shows they are more than qualified to handle a potentially complicated treatment plan. 

You can then discuss your concerns with the dentist of your choice. What do you want to change about your smile? Your dentist will make recommendations based on what goals you have and what you need to do to restore your oral health. 

Whether it’s a smile makeover or a full mouth reconstruction, the right cosmetic dentist will help you achieve a healthy, glowing smile you’ll want to show off.    

Trust Luminous Smiles with your dental goals. 

With accreditation by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Desai of Luminous Smiles brings to her patients outstanding skill and knowledge for an exceptional luxury experience. To learn more about a smile makeover or full mouth reconstruction, call us today!

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