Also called full mouth reconstruction or rehabilitation, full mouth restoration is typically needed when the teeth are short, worn, chipped, cracked or missing, and/or when there are ongoing problems with jaw, muscle and headache pain because of the patient's bite. An individualized treatment plan lists the dental procedures, both structural and cosmetic, needed to correct the condition and shape of the mouth to create a healthy and beautiful smile. This process can take several months or several years, and may involve work by a general, cosmetic or restorative dentist plus specialists like an oral surgeon, orthodontist (moving teeth), periodontist (gums) or endodontist (tooth pulp/roots).
Typical costs:
It can cost $15,000-$40,000 for moderate full mouth restoration, but extensive reconstruction can be $45,000-$80,000 or more depending on the condition of the teeth and jaws, and the type and amount of procedures required. CostHelper readers report quotes of $22,000-$80,000 for full mouth restoration, with an average price of $50,933.
The total cost will depend on the procedures needed. These can include:
Dental insurance might cover some or all of the costs of specific procedures that are considered necessary for medical or structural reasons, like root canals, but not cosmetic procedures like veneers or teeth whitening.
A full mouth reconstruction will repair or replace worn or broken teeth, bones and tissue. The dentist will evaluate the patient's mouth and then create a written treatment plan with a cost estimate. Patients may get a second or third opinion from another dentist or dentists about what specific work should be included, and at what cost. A video by Phelan Dental Seminars in Canada explains the thought process in creating a full mouth treatment plan[1] for a specific patient.
The first phase of a full mouth restoration is to take any steps necessary to ensure that the gums are healthy, and then to correct any bite problems. Then come the repairs -- implants, crowns, root canals, veneers or whatever the dentist says is needed. Dentists in Florida, California[2] and Canada[3] display before-and-after photos of full mouth reconstruction cases.
Discounts:
Dental school clinics[4] may offer reduced rates for services by supervised students or faculty.
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research provides tips for finding low-cost dental care[5] .
Shopping for full mouth reconstruction:
Treatment plans and prices can vary, so if possible get an opinion and estimate from more than one dentist. Ask to see before-and-after photos of past full mouth restoration patients, and ask questions about the type of work done, and the dentist's experience and expertise with full mouth reconstruction. Discuss the procedures on the proposed treatment plan and ask if there are any alternatives.
The dentist's office will typically provide information about financing options, ranging from a discount for paying cash to payment plans or third-party credit.
WedMD lists things to consider when choosing a dentist[6] .
If the patient has dental insurance, the insurance company will provide a list of approved dentists. Or get referrals to local dentists from the American Dental Association[7] or the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentists[8] .
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
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