PORCELAIN Veneers
Porcelain laminate veneers consist of a compilation of several thin ceramic layers which replace original tooth enamel, and an adhesive layer. To apply a veneer, a very small amount of the original tooth enamel must be removed, usually less than a millimeter. This is essential as it creates room for the porcelain veneer to fit within the mouth and most accurately restore natural tooth function while creating an even better appearance than the original tooth.
The bond between original tooth and porcelain veneer is critical as it not only provides the esthetic perfection desired, but also a strong bond which is essential for correct veneer function. Light-sensitive resin is placed between the original tooth and the veneer and then hardened using a special curing light.
Porcelain veneers are a very successful option in many situations where the original tooth has developed poor color, shape, and contours. It is also a good choice for fractured teeth, gaps between teeth, and in some situations where the tooth position is compromised and there are minor bite-related problems. For some people, superficial stains do not respond well to tooth whitening or bleaching. In these situations, a porcelain veneer may be the best option.
Dental Implants
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are metal posts or frames that are surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath your gums. Once in place, they allow your dentist to mount replacement teeth onto them.
How do Dental Implants Work?
Because implants fuse to your jawbone, they provide stable support for artificial teeth. Dentures and bridges mounted to implants won't slip or shift in your mouth — an especially important benefit when eating and speaking. This secure fit helps the dentures and bridges — as well as individual crowns placed over implants — feel more natural than conventional bridges or dentures.
For some people, ordinary bridges and dentures are simply not comfortable or even possible, due to sore spots, poor ridges or gagging. In addition, ordinary bridges must be attached to teeth on either side of the space left by the missing tooth. An advantage of implants is that no adjacent teeth need to be prepared or ground down to hold your new replacement tooth/teeth in place.
To receive implants, you need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. You must also commit to keeping these structures healthy. Meticulous oral hygiene and regular dental visits are critical to the long-term success of dental implants.
Implants are usually more expensive than other methods of tooth replacement, and most insurance carriers typically cover less than 10 percent of the fees.
The American Dental Association considers two types of implants to be safe. They are:
Endosteal implants — these are surgically implanted directly into the jawbone. Once the surrounding gum tissue has healed, a second surgery is needed to connect a post to the original implant. Finally, an artificial tooth (or teeth) is attached to the post-individually, or grouped on a bridge or denture.
Subperiosteal implants — these consist of a metal frame that is fitted onto the jawbone just below the gum tissue. As the gums heal, the frame becomes fixed to the jawbone. Posts, which are attached to the frame, protrude through the gums. As with endosteal implants, artificial teeth are then mounted to the posts.
Full Mouth Makeover- Change to Full Mouth Rehabilitation
What is a Full Mouth Rehabilitation?
The term full mouth rehabilitation is often applied to dental work that involves replacing multiple teeth. In some cases this could mean replacing every tooth in the mouth, while other times it could involve replacing small sections of teeth, such as the entire upper mouth section or several teeth in the back of the mouth.
What Options are Available for Full Mouth Rehabilitations?
Full mouth rehabilitation can actually be used to describe several different types of dental procedures. While all of the procedures differ in some ways, they have one common goal – to help restore a person's smile and to replace missing/damaged teeth.
Available options for those considering a full mouth rehabilitation include:
Full or partial dentures – removable denture options that do not require the need for significant surgical procedures
Implant and removable denture combination – the use of several dental implants, which will be connected to a small set of removable dentures
Implant and fixed denture combination – placement of several implants which are connected to a fixed denture device. The device cannot be removed without the assistance of a Prosthodontist
Advantages of a Full Mouth Rehabilitation Using Implant or Teeth Supported Combinations
Dr. Leopardi will help patients weigh the advantages and disadvantages of having a specific type of dental procedure performed. When working with patients who are considering a full mouth rehabilitation, Dr. Leopardi will discuss some of the following advantages:
Flexibility in treatment options – there are several full mouth rehabilitation options available which allow patients to seek treatment regardless of their budget
Restores smile
Places strong, sturdy teeth in the mouth which restores functionality to the mouth
Disadvantages of a Full Mouth Rehabilitation Using Implant or Teeth Supported Combinations
The biggest disadvantage of a full mouth rehabilitation is the amount of time involved. The entire procedure from start to finish could take several mouths. Some patients are unable to make such a time commitment.
Other disadvantages of a full mouth rehabilitation using implant or teeth supported combinations include:
Amount of planning – full mouth rehabilitations take a lot of planning both on the part of the Prosthodontist and the patient
Cost – cost of treatment can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars
Recovery time – recovery time for implant procedures can take several months
Chance of failure – implant procedures may fail if not properly maintained
Multiple appointments – a full mouth rehabilitation could require multiple dental appointments
Dr. Leopardi, an experienced Prosthodontist located out of Denver, Colorado, is available to discuss full mouth rehabilitation options with you. Call the office today to schedule a consultation where you can explore your options.
Facial Rejuvenation
Dr.Lee is trained to perform skin laser, IPL, RA and Ultra sound .
In addition to the cosmetic dentistry , Dr.Lee can make your facial skin look better and younger.