A full mouth rehabilitation is one staged plan that treats several dental problems together — for example missing teeth, decay, a misaligned bite and gum problems. It combines restorative, cosmetic and orthodontic treatment so your bite, function and appearance are addressed as a whole. Your dentist maps out the stages, the timing and the cost with you before any treatment begins.
Full mouth rehabilitation or smile makeover: what is the difference?
A full mouth rehabilitation restores the health and function of most or all of your teeth: how you bite and chew, and teeth that are missing, broken or worn. A smile makeover is mainly about how the front teeth look. A full mouth rehabilitation also changes how your teeth look, but it starts with health and function.
Which treatments can a full mouth rehabilitation include?
| Problem | Treatments that may be used |
|---|---|
| All the teeth in a jaw missing or failing | Full-arch implants: a fixed bridge of teeth held by several implants |
| Some missing teeth | Dental implants or bridges |
| Worn or broken teeth, often from grinding | Crowns or onlays, plus a night guard; see TMJ and teeth grinding |
| Infected or badly damaged teeth | Root canal treatment, or removing teeth that cannot be saved |
| Crooked teeth that affect the bite | Clear aligners |
| Gum disease | Gum treatment and regular cleans first; see preventative care |
Your plan uses only the treatments your mouth needs. Your dentist explains the reason for each one.
How long does each stage take?
A full mouth rehabilitation usually takes from a few months to more than a year. Stages that need healing time take longest.
| Stage | Usual time |
|---|---|
| Assessment, X-rays, scans and planning | 1 to 2 visits, then time to prepare the plan |
| Health-first treatment: fillings, gum treatment, root canals, removing teeth | A few weeks, depending on how much is needed |
| Healing after implants are placed | Usually 3 to 6 months while the bone joins the implant |
| Straightening with aligners, if needed | Usually 6 to 18 months |
| Crowns, bridges or veneers | Usually 2 to 3 weeks for each set, because a laboratory makes them |
| Reviews | After treatment, then at regular check-ups |
Read more about what to expect during a full mouth rehabilitation.
What affects the cost of a full mouth rehabilitation?
The cost depends on the treatments in your plan. Your dentist adds up the fee for each treatment and any listed extras, and explains the total before treatment begins. Things that change the cost include:
- the number of teeth that need treatment;
- whether implants are needed, and how many;
- bone grafting or a sinus lift;
- the materials and laboratory work for crowns, bridges or full-arch teeth;
- sedation, if you need it.
Treatment can often be planned in stages, with the most urgent problems treated first. Medicare does not pay for most dental services for adults. Private health insurance may help with some costs, depending on your fund and level of cover, so check with your fund before you start.
We accept private health funds and other payment methods. See our payment options for the full list, and check the total cost, fees and terms before you start treatment.

What are the alternatives?
A full mouth rehabilitation is not the only option. Alternatives include:
- treating only the most urgent teeth and monitoring the rest;
- removable partial or full dentures instead of implants;
- a staged plan spread over a longer time.
Each option has different risks, costs and maintenance needs. Implant surgery, root canal treatment and tooth removal each carry their own risks, and crowns, bridges and full-arch teeth can chip or wear and need repair over time. Results vary from person to person, and your dentist will explain the risks, alternatives and likely outcome for your teeth before you decide.
Looking after your mouth afterwards
- Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth, and around implants and bridges, every day.
- Keep up regular check-ups and professional cleans so problems are found early.
- Wear a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth.
- Expect some crowns, bridges or other restorations to need repair or replacement over the years.








