I had a full-mouth reconstruction done because of a combination of both tetracycline stains and the fact that I sometimes grind my teeth. While the new teeth look okay, my mouth has been hurting ever since. I can’t tell what the problem is but it hurts the most when I bite down to chew. I’ve been back to the dentist who did the reconstruction and he said everything looks fine to him. I don’t know what to do at this point and I’m barely eating. Is it possible to get a beautiful smile that still functions well and doesn’t hurt?
Lacey
Dear Lacey,
I am sorry this is happening to you. I’m curious as to the shape your teeth were in before the full-mouth recontruction. If there was nothing wrong with your teeth with the exception of the tetracycline stains, I am confused as to why he used dental crowns instead of porcelain veneers. If there was minor damage from teeth grinding, then wearing a mouth guard would help with that, even with the porcelain veneers, which are the typical treatment for a smile makeover.
As for the dental crowns, if your mouth hurts when you bite down, then everything is NOT fine. You can get a beautiful and functional smile, however in order to do that you need to see a dentist who has training in both cosmetic work as well as neuromuscular dentistry. This would include training in TMJ Disorder.
I think you will need to get a second opinion on your reconstruction case. It could be as simple as some of the crowns are sitting too high. However, it could be more serious. A full mouth reconstruction is one of the most advanced porcedures a dentist can do. If he or she doesn’t have the right training, then it can completely throw off your bite leading to painful TMJ disorder.
When you get your second opinion, you will be better served if you make sure it is from a dentist who has the right training. I would look for someone who has training from one of the following institutions:
- The Pankey Institute
- The Los Vegas Institute of Advanced Dental Studies
- The Dawson Institue
They can give you the right diagnosis for what is wrong with your reconstruction, as well as make any necessary repairs.
This blog is brought to you by Duluth, GA Dentist Dr. David Marion.
