To better understand each other

Certain technical terms specific to general and cosmetic dentistry need to be clarified so that certain practices can be better understood.
This list of definitions is not comprehensive. We will add more as the needs of our clients grow.

Dental Crown

A dental crown is a prosthesis (an artificial tooth as opposed to dentures) that cover a damaged tooth and protects it from further damage while maintaining its appearance and function.

Covering fragile teeth with crowns certainly has a considerable impact on the longevity of teeth. A dental structure’s health is one of the three components of a healthy mouth, along with gums and chewing.

Dental Veneer

A dental veneer is a fine layer of porcelain or composite material that adapts to the tooth’s surface, just as false nails placed over natural nails. Veneers are ideal for embellishing a smile. They also serve to consolidate weak teeth.
If the tooth is too fragile, a dental crown is preferable in this case. Veneers also allow a person to avoid orthodontic treatments (braces) when there are slight tooth deviations and when the issue is cosmetic in nature. However, when teeth have a pronounced deviation from their axis, it is sometimes necessary to call upon an orthodontist and then only have veneers installed. The long-term success of veneers, composite material or porcelain depends on the patient’s dental health stability.
Gingivitis

Gingivitis causes less long-term damage than periodontitis. The gums become red and swollen, which may also happen during periodontitis, but the bone does not deteriorate. Contrary to popular belief, gingivitis is not a less serious form of periodontitis. Also, periodontitis is not a consequence of gingivitis. However, gingivitis still constitutes an inflammation which one must avoid as much as possible.

Gum Graft

When a tooth has suffered a gum recession, the root becomes exposed, which can cause sensitivity and, in the long-term, tooth loss. What can be done to solve this problem? The solution is simple: a gum graft.

A gum graft can be done using one of the following methods: skin is either grafted from the palate, or a matrix is used to regenerate your gum.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a registered trademark associated with an orthodontic technique known for its transparency. Transparent trays are used that progressively move the teeth toward their natural alignment.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar. It is the most destructive type of gum disease in the long-term since it entails bone loss, which promotes tooth loss. The main cause of periodontitis is genetic in nature, but it is compounded by smoking and poor hygiene. Bad habits can thus be the root of this problem.

Gum Recession

Gum recession is a recession of the gum around a tooth, more often the outside, which exposes the root. Over time, this can become problematic and cause hypersensitivity or loss of the precious bone that supports the tooth. The reason for this may be that the gum does not attach well to the tooth, and the presence of inflammation (often times gingivitis) worsens the situation. The dentist can cover the root and solidify your gums by performing a gum graft.