Comprehensive dental rehabilitation by a periodontist and prosthodontist working together to rebuild your entire smile from the foundation up
Full mouth reconstruction is a comprehensive treatment process that restores the health, function, and appearance of every tooth in your mouth. Unlike a purely cosmetic procedure that focuses on the surface appearance of teeth, full mouth reconstruction addresses underlying structural damage, bite dysfunction, gum disease, bone loss, and missing or severely compromised teeth. The goal is to rebuild an entire dentition that works properly, feels comfortable, and looks natural.
At The Loft Dental Studio in Costa Mesa, full mouth reconstruction is a collaborative effort between two specialists. Dr. Chanook David Ahn, a Yale-trained, board-certified periodontist and UCLA faculty member, establishes the periodontal foundation by treating gum disease, performing gum grafting, crown lengthening, and bone regeneration. Dr. Elaine Lu, a board-certified prosthodontist from the UCLA School of Dentistry, designs and fabricates the restorations that rebuild the teeth themselves, including crowns, bridges, veneers, onlays, and inlays.
This multidisciplinary approach is what distinguishes a true full mouth reconstruction from a cosmetic makeover. A cosmetic makeover typically involves veneers or whitening on teeth that are already healthy. Full mouth reconstruction, by contrast, is medically necessary treatment for patients whose oral health has deteriorated to the point where individual procedures cannot adequately address the scope of the problem. It requires careful sequencing, precision planning, and the combined expertise of specialists who understand both the biological foundation and the prosthetic science of dental rehabilitation.
A cosmetic makeover enhances the appearance of otherwise healthy teeth. Full mouth reconstruction is a medically driven rehabilitation that restores structural integrity, proper bite function, and gum health across the entire mouth. While the aesthetic result is excellent, the primary objective is returning the mouth to full health and function. Many patients who need reconstruction have experienced years of progressive deterioration that cannot be addressed by cosmetic treatment alone.
Full mouth reconstruction is appropriate for patients whose dental problems extend beyond what individual treatments can resolve. The following conditions often indicate that a comprehensive approach is needed rather than treating each tooth in isolation.
Years of grinding (bruxism), clenching, or abrasive habits can wear teeth down to the point where they lose their original shape, height, and function. Severely worn teeth alter the bite, compromise chewing ability, and create an aged appearance. Reconstruction restores proper tooth dimensions and protects against further wear with durable restorations.
Accidents, sports injuries, or falls can cause fractures, chips, or complete loss of multiple teeth simultaneously. When trauma affects numerous teeth, a coordinated reconstruction plan ensures that all damaged teeth are restored in harmony with each other and with the surrounding gum tissue.
Patients who have avoided dental care for many years often present with multiple cavities, failing restorations, gum disease, and missing teeth. Rather than attempting to address each problem individually over many disconnected appointments, full mouth reconstruction provides a structured plan that treats everything in a logical, coordinated sequence.
Chronic acid reflux (GERD), eating disorders, or dietary factors can dissolve tooth enamel across the entire mouth. The resulting erosion thins the teeth, exposes the underlying dentin, causes sensitivity, and weakens the overall dental structure. Reconstruction protects the remaining tooth structure with crowns, onlays, or veneers and restores proper form and function.
When multiple posterior teeth are lost or severely worn, the bite can collapse, reducing the vertical distance between the upper and lower jaws. This creates a shortened facial appearance, accelerates wear on remaining teeth, and can contribute to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain and dysfunction. Reconstruction reopens the bite to its correct vertical dimension.
Chronic jaw pain, clicking, locking, and headaches related to TMJ dysfunction are frequently connected to bite problems. Full mouth reconstruction can address the underlying occlusal issues that contribute to TMJ symptoms by establishing a stable, balanced bite that distributes forces evenly across all teeth.
Patients with a long history of dental treatment may reach a point where multiple old crowns, bridges, and fillings are failing simultaneously. When the majority of existing restorations need replacement, a coordinated reconstruction is more predictable and efficient than replacing each one independently.
What makes full mouth reconstruction at The Loft Dental Studio different from most dental offices is the in-house collaboration between a periodontist and a prosthodontist. These two specialists work from a single, unified treatment plan, communicating directly about your case rather than sending you between separate offices with fragmented care.
This dual-specialist model eliminates the common problem in dentistry where restorative work is placed on a compromised foundation. When a general dentist places a crown on a tooth surrounded by diseased gums or insufficient bone, that restoration is likely to fail within a few years. By having Dr. Ahn establish a healthy periodontal foundation first, the restorations that Dr. Lu places are supported by stable, healthy tissue, and they last significantly longer as a result.
The single most important principle in full mouth reconstruction is that the foundation must be healthy before any restorative work begins. Just as you would not build a house on an unstable foundation, placing crowns, bridges, or veneers on teeth surrounded by infected gums or deteriorating bone leads to predictable failure.
Dr. Ahn evaluates every full mouth reconstruction patient for periodontal disease, bone loss, gum recession, and biologic width violations. Any active infection must be eliminated, and the supporting structures must be stable before Dr. Lu begins the restorative phase. This foundational work may include several procedures depending on the specific condition of your gums and bone.
Active gum disease causes ongoing inflammation, bone destruction, and bacterial infection around the teeth. Periodontal treatment eliminates this disease process through scaling and root planing, and in some cases surgical intervention, to create a clean, healthy environment. Without this step, bacteria trapped beneath restorations would continue to destroy the supporting bone.
Patients with significant gum recession may require gum grafting to restore the tissue that protects tooth roots and creates proper contours around restorations. Adequate gum tissue is essential for both the health and the appearance of the final result. Dr. Ahn uses connective tissue grafts and other advanced techniques to rebuild the gum architecture.
When teeth are broken below the gumline, decayed close to the bone, or when there is insufficient tooth structure above the gum for a crown to grip, crown lengthening surgery exposes more of the natural tooth. This procedure ensures that restorations have adequate retention and that the biologic width (the natural seal between tooth and gum) is not violated.
Severe periodontal disease or long-standing tooth loss can result in significant bone deterioration. Bone regeneration procedures rebuild lost bone using grafting materials and growth factors, creating a solid base for both natural teeth and dental implants. In combined reconstruction cases where some teeth are replaced with implants, adequate bone volume is essential for implant success.
Full mouth reconstruction requires meticulous planning before any treatment begins. The planning phase is one of the most critical aspects of the process, and the time invested here directly determines the quality and predictability of the final result.
The process begins with a thorough clinical examination, full-mouth digital radiographs, CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) scans when indicated, intraoral photographs, and detailed periodontal charting. These records give Dr. Ahn and Dr. Lu a complete picture of every tooth, the surrounding bone levels, gum condition, and any pathology present.
Precise bite records are taken to understand how your upper and lower teeth relate to each other. Study models are mounted on an articulator, a device that simulates jaw movement, allowing Dr. Lu to analyze your current bite in detail and plan the ideal occlusal scheme for your reconstruction.
A diagnostic wax-up is created on the study models, showing the proposed final tooth positions, shapes, and contours. This physical preview allows you to see and discuss the planned outcome before any treatment starts. Digital imaging may also be used to visualize the projected result and ensure alignment with your aesthetic goals.
Dr. Ahn and Dr. Lu develop a detailed sequence of procedures, organized into phases. Periodontal treatment and foundation work are completed first, followed by the restorative phase. The sequence accounts for healing times, provisional restorations, and the logical order of procedures to ensure efficiency and predictability.
A transparent cost estimate is provided for the entire treatment plan, broken down by phase. Insurance benefits are verified and maximized where applicable. Financing options are discussed so that cost does not become a barrier to completing the care you need. The full treatment timeline is outlined so you can plan accordingly.
Dr. Lu selects the most appropriate restoration for each tooth based on its condition, location in the mouth, functional demands, and aesthetic requirements. Full mouth reconstruction does not mean that every tooth receives the same treatment. The art of prosthodontic planning lies in choosing the right restoration for each individual situation.
Full-coverage crowns are placed over teeth that are significantly damaged, weakened by large fillings, or structurally compromised. Modern porcelain crowns are milled or pressed from high-strength ceramics that closely match natural tooth color, translucency, and texture. They provide complete protection for the underlying tooth structure while restoring form and function.
When one or two teeth are missing and the adjacent teeth require crowns, a fixed bridge replaces the missing teeth by spanning the gap with a false tooth (pontic) anchored to crowns on the neighboring teeth. Bridges restore chewing function and prevent the remaining teeth from shifting into the empty space.
Veneers are thin shells of porcelain bonded to the front surfaces of teeth, primarily in the smile zone. In a reconstruction context, veneers are used on anterior teeth that have adequate structural integrity but need improvement in shape, color, or alignment. They provide an excellent aesthetic result with conservative tooth preparation. Learn more about cosmetic options.
When a tooth has damage that is too extensive for a filling but does not require a full crown, an onlay or inlay provides a conservative middle ground. These lab-fabricated restorations fit precisely into or over the damaged portion of the tooth, preserving healthy tooth structure while providing durable, long-lasting repair.
In select situations, tooth-colored composite resin can be used to repair minor chips, close small gaps, or build up slightly worn edges. While not as durable as porcelain for large restorations, bonding is a conservative and cost-effective option for teeth that need minimal correction within the overall reconstruction plan.
During the reconstruction process, provisional (temporary) restorations are placed on prepared teeth. These serve multiple purposes: they protect the teeth during treatment, maintain your appearance, allow you to function normally, and provide a preview of the final result so adjustments can be made before the permanent restorations are fabricated.
Many full mouth reconstruction cases involve a combination of restored natural teeth and dental implants. In these combined approach cases, some teeth are saved and restored with crowns, veneers, or onlays, while missing teeth or teeth that cannot be saved are replaced with implant-supported restorations. Dr. Ahn places the implants during the foundation phase, and Dr. Lu designs the prosthetic components to integrate with the restored natural teeth for a cohesive, functional result.
The decision of whether to save a tooth or replace it with an implant is made on a case-by-case basis during the treatment planning phase. Factors include the amount of remaining tooth structure, the degree of bone support, the strategic importance of the tooth in the overall bite, and the long-term prognosis. In many cases, saving a natural tooth with a crown and proper periodontal treatment provides an excellent long-term outcome. In other cases, an implant offers a more predictable solution.
One of the most technically demanding aspects of full mouth reconstruction is establishing a new, functional bite. When most or all teeth are being restored, Dr. Lu has the opportunity and the responsibility to design an occlusal scheme (bite pattern) that distributes chewing forces evenly, protects the jaw joints, and promotes long-term stability.
In patients whose teeth have worn down significantly, the vertical dimension of occlusion (the height of the bite when the jaws are closed) has been reduced. This creates a collapsed appearance and places excessive stress on the jaw joints. Reconstruction reopens the bite to its proper vertical dimension, which improves facial proportions, reduces TMJ strain, and provides adequate space for durable restorations on the worn teeth.
Dr. Lu designs the new bite so that the back teeth bear the primary chewing forces while the front teeth guide the jaw during lateral and forward movements. This mutually protected occlusion is the gold standard in prosthodontic rehabilitation because it minimizes destructive forces on individual teeth and protects the restorations from premature wear or fracture.
Beyond function, Dr. Lu applies established principles of smile design to ensure that the reconstruction produces an aesthetically pleasing result. These principles include proper tooth proportions, symmetrical gum contours, a smile arc that follows the lower lip, appropriate midline position, and natural-looking color gradients. The diagnostic wax-up and provisional restorations allow both the patient and the doctor to evaluate and refine these aesthetic details before the final restorations are fabricated.
Full mouth reconstruction is not a single procedure but a carefully sequenced series of treatments that unfolds over several months. The total duration depends on the complexity of your case, the specific procedures required, and the necessary healing intervals between phases.
Records are gathered, the treatment plan is developed, and diagnostic wax-ups are created. This is when all decisions about the approach, materials, and sequencing are finalized.
Dr. Ahn completes all necessary periodontal treatment, including scaling and root planing, gum grafting, crown lengthening, bone regeneration, and implant placement if applicable. Adequate healing time is allowed between procedures and before the restorative phase begins.
Dr. Lu prepares the teeth, places provisional restorations, and works with the dental laboratory to fabricate the final restorations. This phase may involve multiple appointments for impressions, try-ins, adjustments, and final cementation. Complex cases with many units may be completed in sections.
After the final restorations are placed, follow-up appointments are scheduled to evaluate the bite, check tissue response, and make any fine adjustments. A protective nightguard is typically fabricated to safeguard your new restorations from grinding forces during sleep.
Most full mouth reconstruction cases at The Loft Dental Studio are completed within 6 to 18 months. Simpler cases with minimal periodontal needs may be closer to the 6-month range, while complex cases involving bone regeneration, implant integration, and extensive prosthetic work may extend to 18 months. Throughout the process, you will have functional provisional restorations so your daily life is not significantly disrupted.
Full mouth reconstruction is a significant investment in your oral health, function, and quality of life. The cost varies considerably depending on the number of teeth involved, the types of restorations selected, whether implants are included, and the extent of periodontal treatment required. Because every case is unique, a meaningful cost estimate can only be provided after a thorough examination and treatment planning session.
Several factors influence the total cost of full mouth reconstruction:
Many PPO dental insurance plans cover a portion of the restorative and periodontal components of full mouth reconstruction. Our team verifies your insurance benefits and helps maximize your coverage. For the portion not covered by insurance, we offer flexible financing options that allow you to spread the cost over time without delaying the treatment you need.
If you are dealing with multiple dental problems, a collapsed bite, severe wear, or years of accumulated dental issues, a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Ahn and Dr. Lu is the first step toward a complete solution. Call us to schedule your evaluation and learn what full mouth reconstruction can do for you.
Call (714) 549-7030Full mouth reconstruction typically takes between 6 and 18 months depending on the complexity of your case. Simpler cases involving primarily restorative work may be completed in 6 to 9 months, while cases requiring extensive periodontal treatment, bone regeneration, or implant integration may take 12 to 18 months. Dr. Ahn and Dr. Lu develop a detailed timeline during your treatment planning phase so you know what to expect at every stage.
A cosmetic makeover focuses primarily on improving the appearance of teeth that are otherwise healthy and functional, typically using veneers, whitening, or bonding. Full mouth reconstruction is a medically driven process that addresses serious structural, functional, and health issues across all or most of the teeth. It restores proper bite function, repairs damaged teeth, replaces missing teeth, and treats underlying gum and bone disease. While the result is also aesthetically excellent, the primary goal is restoring oral health and function.
Full mouth reconstruction is performed using local anesthesia for each procedure, and sedation options are available for patients who experience anxiety. Because the treatment is spread over multiple appointments, each individual session is manageable. Post-procedure discomfort varies depending on the specific treatment but is generally well-controlled with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication. Most patients report that the process is far more comfortable than they anticipated.
The cost of full mouth reconstruction varies significantly based on the specific treatments required, the number of teeth involved, the materials used, and the complexity of the case. During your consultation, Dr. Ahn and Dr. Lu will provide a detailed treatment plan with transparent pricing. Many PPO dental insurance plans cover portions of the treatment. We also offer flexible financing options to help make comprehensive care accessible. Call (714) 549-7030 to schedule a consultation.
Yes. Many full mouth reconstructions are completed entirely without implants, using porcelain crowns, bridges, veneers, onlays, and inlays to restore the natural teeth. The decision of whether to include implants depends on your specific situation, including the number and condition of remaining natural teeth, bone volume, and your treatment goals. Dr. Lu is skilled in designing comprehensive restorations that maximize the use of your natural teeth.
Full mouth reconstruction involves two distinct areas of expertise. A periodontist like Dr. Ahn specializes in the supporting structures, the gums and bone, that form the foundation for your teeth. A prosthodontist like Dr. Lu specializes in designing and fabricating the restorations that rebuild the visible tooth structure. Without a healthy periodontal foundation, even the finest crowns and bridges will eventually fail. This collaborative approach ensures that both the foundation and the restoration are handled by specialists with advanced training in their respective fields.
Yes. At no point during your full mouth reconstruction will you be without functional teeth. Provisional (temporary) restorations are placed after teeth are prepared, and they are designed to look natural and function well while your final restorations are being fabricated. These provisionals also serve as a preview of your final result, allowing you and Dr. Lu to evaluate the shape, size, and color before committing to the permanent restorations.