Broken, worn teeth: two techniques to fix them

If one has broken, worn teeth (irregular surface) or if their shape disturbs us (for example, a tooth too short), two techniques are possible.

Composites

These are pieces of resin that mimic the color and appearance of the teeth. They are placed on (or in) the teeth by gluing. A composite tends to stain (avoid coloring products such as tobacco, coffee, or tea) or deteriorate, but it takes at least ten years and is easily removed or modified.

Facets

These are small, custom molded ceramic plates that cover the visible face of the teeth. They imitate enamel very well and shine more than composites. And they are more resistant. The disadvantage is that they involve in 95% of cases to prepare the teeth by filing them, which represents a tissue attack. To consider only if one is very complex or if the repair with a composite is not possible.

How many sessions and at what price?

To put a composite, a session can be enough: the dentist molds directly on the tooth. For veneers, it is necessary first to pose provisional then to make footprints before putting the final facets — Count 3 to 4 appointments. These techniques can also correct for spaced or overlapping teeth. But we do not put facets if the upper teeth overlap those of the bottom or if we grit teeth.

Stained or yellow teeth: abrasion and bleaching

A deterioration of the original color of the teeth can be at the origin of complexes. Stop stains! In the case of stains due to coffee, tea, or tobacco dyes, descaling followed by polishing may be sufficient. However, in case of white or brown spots due to excess fluoride, the dentist will instead resort to micro-abrasion: he applies a paste based on pumice and hydrochloric acid and then rubs with a brush. If the stain is deep, it uses macro-abrasion: it digs slightly the tooth to remove the stain, then the height with a composite. Bleaching does not act on these stains due to excess fluorine.

For whiter teeth

For a result, beyond a few weeks, it is preferred whitening at the dentist kits sold in pharmacies. It offers an immediate result, which lasts a few months. Another option, more durable, bleaching “outpatient”: for ten to fifteen days, we wear a tailor-made gutter, at night, after applying a gel. But you should never expect a bright white. Finally, beware of sensitive teeth and coloring products (coffee, tea, tobacco, beetroot, red wine), to avoid during treatment!