Full mouth prophylaxis, full mouth cleaning and full mouth restoration are terms often used interchangeably to describe the process of rebuilding or simultaneously restoring all of the teeth in both the upper and lower jaws. Full mouth prophylaxis can help restore oral health and functionality.
Full mouth prophylaxis typically involves procedures like crowns, bridges and veneers and can incorporate dental specialists like Periodontists (specializing in the gums), orthodontists (specializing in tooth movements and positions) oral surgeons, and Endodontics (specializing in the tooth pulp).
The main requirement for the full mouth prophylaxis (Cleaning) may result from:
(1.) Teeth that have been injured or fractured.
(2.) Teeth that have been lost due to decay or trauma.
(3.) Complaints of jaw, muscle and headache pain requiring adjustments to the bite (occlusion).
(4.) Teeth that have become severely worn as a result of long-term acid erosion (foods, beverages, acid reflux) or tooth grinding.
How the Process starts for Full Mouth Prophylaxis
If you think that you need full mouth restoration or reconstruction, see your dentist for a comprehensive examination. Your dentist will examine your mouth to determine the extent of the problem and the treatment options that can be used to correct it. In particular, he will examine the condition of your:
(1.) Teeth: The condition of your teeth will determine what restorative procedures may be needed, such as porcelain veneers or full coverage crowns, inlays or onlays, bridges or implants restored with a crown. In particular, your dentist will make note of any cavities and decay, root canal issues, cracks, short/long teeth, tooth wear and any tooth movement.
(2.) Periodontal (gum) tissues: If your gums are not enough healthy, you will most likely need scaling and root planning to treat periodontal disease prior to doing restorative procedures such as crowns, veneers and white fillings. You may require more intensive treatments from a Periodontists to ensure that your newly reconstructed teeth will have a solid foundation. Such treatments could involve soft tissue or bone grafts to build up your gums and underlying jaw bone.
(3.) Esthetics: The color, shape, size and proportion of your teeth, and how they appear in relation to your gums, lips, mouth, side profile and face, are also important factors in full mouth reconstruction treatment.
(4.) The examination process requires records of your mouth, such as X-rays and photographs, impressions of your upper and lower teeth, models of your teeth that are made from the impressions and a model of your bite. Your dentist may also refer you to a specialists (Periodontists, orthodontist, oral surgeon) for a consultation in order to develop a treatment plan that is best for you.