For the most part, modern dentistry is capable of addressing simple issues relatively quickly, and with relatively little aftercare. Your run-of-the-mill cavity or gum disease can even be remedied within just one appointment, and with virtually no discomfort after the fact.
However, if you have serious oral health problems, you may need a full mouth reconstruction. This entails using several reconstructive techniques one after another to completely revitalize your smile. While aftercare is still perfectly manageable, it will require a little bit more work than usual on your part to stay comfortable. Here is what you should know about how long that aftercare may take, and what you can do to make it a bit easier to deal with.
How Long Does it Take to Recover from a Full Mouth Reconstruction
Technically, a “full mouth reconstruction” can refer to any number of different treatments, meaning it’s not exactly straightforward to determine how long it’s going to take to recover from one. Many of the less invasive restorations, like fillings and crowns, require virtually no recovery time, and very little discomfort after treatment. However, more invasive procedures like tooth extractions and bone grafts can take considerably longer to heal completely, as long as 6 months.
Then there’s the process of getting used to any tooth replacement options you may have needed. The first few weeks or so of wearing dentures involve a lot of adaptation, so you should expect to need a little bit of time before you feel completely comfortable with them.
How to Make Aftercare Easier
If you think you have a lot of aftercare ahead of you, there’s no reason to be intimidated. You’re not the first person to have to deal with these issues, and your dentist will be happy to help you get back to feeling 100%. While the advice they’ll give you will depend a lot on what treatment you got, there are a few things that are almost universally good advice.
- Avoid eating anything excessively tough or chewy that could harm your restoration.
- Try to avoid smoking or other kinds of nicotine use, as both could disrupt healing.
- Keep up with your dental hygiene, preventing any serious plaque buildup.
- See your dentist for all required follow-up appointments.
About the Author
Dr. Peter Hammes is a dentist who will always make sure that you can be completely at ease for the duration of your stay with him. He makes use of advanced imaging technology and a careful chairside manner to ensure that you can always remain in the loop with the dental care that you’re receiving. Dr. Hammes received his doctorate from the University of Illinois-Chicago before enlisting in the US Navy Dental Corps.
If you have any questions about a full mouth reconstruction, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (312) 624-8070.
