Dental crowns New Iberia LA are a great way to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay, fracture or injury. They can also serve as an anchor for a bridge to replace one or more missing teeth.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a great way to improve the color, shape or size of your teeth. They are a more permanent solution to discoloration than bleaching and can also correct gaps, chips, and cracks. They are made to mimic the look of tooth enamel and catch light in a similar way.

It is important to find a dentist who specializes in cosmetic dentistry, as veneers are a specialized procedure. They will take the time to understand your goals and work with you to achieve them. It is important to communicate what you want from your smile and to bring pictures of smiles that flatter your face to the initial consultation.

When preparing for porcelain veneers, your dentist will remove any decayed tissue and clean the area. Then the tooth will be etched, rinsed and dried. The veneer is then placed and cement is applied. The dentist will then shine a special light on the cement to harden it.

Porcelain Crowns

Dental crowns New Iberia LA cap-like appliances that fit over the top of a tooth to strengthen and improve its appearance. They can repair damaged teeth, protect weak ones, and prevent problems like cavities from recurring. They can also help with jaw clenching or bruxism (teeth grinding).

Porcelain crowns offer aesthetic benefits – they are designed to match your natural teeth. They can make a big difference in terms of your self-confidence and the way you look. Generally, they are used on the front teeth since these are the most visible and can make a significant difference in the overall appearance of your smile.

Metal-based crowns are usually recommended for molars since they are highly durable and can handle the biting and chewing forces. However, they can cause a grey line at the gumline and may not be suitable for patients who are allergic to metals. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the durability of metal with a porcelain coating to give a more natural appearance.

Porcelain Bridges

Missing teeth can have serious consequences on the health and function of your smile. Fortunately, tooth replacement options like dental bridges can help close the gap caused by missing teeth.

A porcelain bridge consists of two anchoring teeth, also known as abutment teeth, and a false tooth, known as a pontic. The bridge is fabricated from porcelain, a material that can be matched to the shade of your natural teeth for seamless integration.

Porcelain has glass-like qualities that scatter light to replicate the appearance of natural tooth enamel. It is also highly durable, so your bridge will be able to stand up to the same kinds of bite forces that your natural teeth can.

The process of installing a porcelain bridge usually takes two or more visits to your dentist. At the first visit, your dentist will numb the anchoring teeth and remove a small portion of their enamel to prepare them for the bridge. A temporary bridge will be placed while your permanent one is fabricated in the lab. Once it is ready, your dentist will cement the permanent bridge. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, scheduling regular dental appointments, and avoiding chewing on hard objects will all increase the lifespan of your new porcelain bridge.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are an alternative to dentures and bridges for missing teeth. They are inserted into the jawbone, where they function and feel like natural teeth. They can also improve appearance. However, they are not suitable for everyone. Patients must have sufficient bone density and thickness to support the implant. They should also be willing to commit to regular care and follow instructions from their oral surgeon or dentist.

During the implant procedure, a metal post (usually titanium) is placed into the gum tissue. A small connector post, called an abutment, is then screwed onto the implant to hold a tooth replacement. This could be a single tooth, a bridge, or a full arch of teeth.

Some chronic conditions that go untreated or are poorly managed can slow healing and integration of dental implants. These include diabetes, heart disease, cancer, long-term steroid use, and certain types of neurological disorders. In some cases, these issues can lead to implant failure.