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Maintaining your general health and the health of your smile depends on dentistry Lafayette, LA. If left untreated, gum disease and tooth decay can cause infections and other conditions that put your entire body at risk for health problems. Dentists perform different procedures to help patients keep their teeth in good condition. Some of these procedures include root canals, crowns, and indirect fillings. This article will look closely at some of the more common dental procedures and what each involves.
Indirect Fillings
Indirect fillings are dental treatments that use a lab-made material to restore a tooth. Some dentists also call them “three-quarter crowns” because they cover nearly the entire tooth but expose a large area. Inlays, for instance, cover the midpoint of the tooth, while onlays cover more than one tooth point.
Inlays are dental restorations that are often used to treat moderate tooth decay. They are a conservative alternative to crowns and can also be more esthetic. Inlays are made in a dental laboratory and bonded to the tooth, whereas crowns and bridges are molded into place during a dental visit.
Dental Crowns
Crowns are tooth-shaped covers that dentists place over damaged or decayed teeth. These covers not only strengthen the tooth but also improve the tooth’s appearance. They also help save a severely damaged tooth and restore its function. Crowns are custom-made and can be used to restore a damaged or decayed tooth.
To get a dental crown, a dentist first numbs the affected tooth. Then, the dentist removes the diseased dental tissue to create a space for the crown. The dentist also removes a layer of enamel from the tooth to prepare the tooth for the crown.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are replacement teeth that bond to the jawbone. The dentist will create a model of your mouth, bite, and make impressions of your teeth. The dentist will then use this model to design a replacement tooth. In some cases, you may only need an abutment, while in others, you will need a crown for the entire implant.
Implants may be made from titanium or another material. The type of surface affects the long-term stability and integration of the treatment. For example, a porous or machined titanium surface has more bone contact, while a plasma-sprayed hydroxyapatite coating improves its stability.
Root Canals
One of the common dental procedures, root canals, are used to remove damaged tooth pulp. The dentist uses an anesthetic to numb the tooth during the procedure. The patient may also receive IV sedation. The tooth is then crowned, which restores the tooth’s full function and appearance.
A dentist may recommend a root canal if a tooth is seriously infected and cannot be saved. If bacteria enter the pulp, it can cause severe infections and, in some cases, even tooth loss. Besides, trauma to the tooth can cause nerve tissue damage. Deep fillings can also damage the pulp, and harmful bacteria can enter it.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is a type of dental treatment offered by dentists to improve the appearance of a person’s smile. Although this type of dental treatment is not for everyone, it can save you money. Many dentists offer financing plans or grants for some of these procedures. However, you should consider the cost of the procedure and the results you hope for before making a decision.
Cosmetic dentistry involves adding dental materials to teeth or removing gums to improve the appearance of teeth. The procedure can improve the color of your teeth and straighten your teeth. Most cosmetic dentists focus on the symmetry and harmony of teeth and face. One of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments is tooth whitening, which can make your teeth look brighter.
Orthodontics
Orthodontics are dental treatments that straighten the teeth of adults and children. They can correct conditions ranging from grinding teeth to clicking the jaw. Patients may also have to undergo orthodontic treatment if they are thumb suckers. These habits can cause the teeth to become misshaped and may need to be stopped for a natural improvement. Most patients begin treatment around the age of twelve or thirteen. However, some people, such as those suffering from gum disease, may need treatment at an older age. Orthodontics can also be required for children with cleft lip and palate conditions.
In addition to making teeth straighter, orthodontics can also improve your overall oral health. A properly aligned mouth can help improve chewing quality and prevent health issues such as TMJ syndrome. Straight teeth also reflect light better, making it easier to brush your teeth.