Excellent Dental Services for the Whole Family

Petry Family Dentistry strives to provide the highest quality dental care to individuals and families across Lafayette and Franklin, LA, and the surrounding areas. For more than a decade, we have offered state-of-the-art care in a warm, welcoming environment.

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Teeth Cleanings in Lafayette & Franklin, LA

Dentistry services in Lafayette & Franklin, LA

General Dentistry Services

Routine Cleanings

Patients should receive a routine dental cleaning and exam every six months, or as recommended by Dr. Petry. During your cleaning, we remove plaque and calculus from your teeth, allowing your bright and polished smile to shine.

X-Rays

Sometimes, x-rays need to be taken to help detect possible cavities in between teeth that cannot be seen by the naked eye. Without an x-ray of the whole tooth, and supporting bone and gum tissues, there is no real way to detect infection or pathology that requires attention.

We use digital radiography to take x-rays using 50-70% less radiation versus conventional x-rays. Coupled with computer monitoring, digital x-ray technology allows us to enhance the images for better diagnosis of any dental concerns.

Fillings

If we determine a patient has a cavity, fillings are performed to remove decay, and replace the affected tooth structure. It is called a filling because a new material fills the hole that the decay left. Most teeth are treated with bonded tooth-colored composite resin fillings.

If caught early enough, cavities can be treated easily and painlessly. If not treated, decay can cause tooth pain and/or infection, which can lead to root canal treatment or extraction.

Bonding

Bonding involves adhering composite resin material that is matched to the color of the tooth, to the front of the tooth. This is done to repair damage done to the tooth by decay, to alter the alignment of the tooth, close gaps between the teeth, or for cosmetic purposes.

First the surface of the tooth is roughened in order to accept the bonding and hold it. A gel is applied to micro etch the tooth surface, and a primer/bond agent is applied so the material adheres to the surface. Then the material itself is placed on the tooth and hardened with intense light. The composite resin material is shaped and polished to get a lustrous finish as a last step.

Non-Surgical Gum Treatments

The gums, ligaments, and bone around the teeth form the foundation for one’s teeth. All structures are also referred to as the periodontium. When the periodontium is not healthy, it jeopardizes the teeth and could lead to gum disease. This is where appropriate gum treatments come in.

Signs of gum disease include red or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and loose teeth. Treatment usually involves a deep cleaning or root planing done under a local anesthetic, along with local antibiotic agents. If the gum disease gets too severe it may need to be treated through surgery or extraction. This is why it is important to get it treated at the first sign of a problem.

Restorative Dentistry Services

Crowns & Bridges

Crowns are necessary when a tooth is severely damaged or has suffered from advanced decay and cannot be fixed with bonded filling material. Crowns cover the remaining tooth and restore its function, strength, and aesthetics.

Bridges are utilized when tooth loss occurs due to gum disease, decay, or injury. Tooth loss can create greater problems for your dental health if it is not corrected. The teeth next to the missing tooth (or teeth) can begin to move and result in pain or discomfort. Bridges will close any gaps in your mouth. The bridge looks and acts just like natural teeth, is permanently cemented, and helps to maintain the position of the rest of your teeth.

Root Canals

When tooth decay is left untreated, it can cause an infection that invades the root of the tooth. In this case, a root canal is necessary. The procedure involves cleaning out the infected pulp and nerves, and filling the tooth with an antibacterial substance to prevent further decay.

Extractions

While we do everything we can to keep your natural teeth, sometimes an extraction is necessary. If there is severe decay or infection, crowded teeth, serious gum disease, or other issues in your mouth, the best option may be to remove the damaged tooth or teeth. If we determine you do need an extraction, we will explain your options and answer any questions you may have.

Dentures

There are different types of dentures, but they share their common function. They replace teeth that have become loose or that have been lost due to bone loss. When bone loss around the roots of teeth is substantial enough to loosen them or let them fall out, it’s time for dentures.

We examine the entire mouth and determine which teeth should be removed, and which will remain. The loose teeth are then extracted. Dentures are fitted to go over or around whatever teeth remain in the mouth, depending on the type. Once you are accustomed to the dentures, all of your normal tooth functionality and appearance return. You are able to eat and talk as normal.

Dental Implants

If you happen to be missing one or more teeth, dental implants could be the perfect solution for you! Dental implants are natural-looking and are permanently anchored into the patient’s jawbone. Unlike traditional bridges, no preparation of adjacent teeth is required.

It is important to replace missing teeth, because if left with spaces, your teeth can shift and cause a variety of other dental problems. When dental implants are placed, your jaw will bond and attach to the implant making them very strong and functional. Our implants are custom tailored to each individual patient.

Mini Implants

We also offer mini dental implants that are commonly used to stabilize lower dentures. They are about half the diameter of regular implants, and about 50 to 70% less than standard dental implants. Mini implants can be placed in one easy appointment.

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Restorative dental services in Lafayette & Franklin, LA

Other Dentistry Services

TMJ Treatments

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. Problems in this joint may be caused by a misalignment of the teeth, trauma, or excess muscle tension. Aside from the two bones that meet there, cartilage buffers them and five muscles are involved in the area. If something goes wrong it may cause problems including headaches, earaches, clicking or popping of the jaw, and soreness in the jaw or face.

TMJ treatments may include replacing missing teeth, moving teeth, adjusting the bite, or filling in gaps between teeth. If left untreated, surgery may be required to repair a badly damaged joint.

Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies can be frightening and often painful. Prompt treatment is generally required to alleviate pain and ensure the patient’s oral and overall health. If you’re dealing with a dental emergency, call us immediately at 337-233-5494 for our Lafayette office or 337-828-5555 for our Franklin office, and we will schedule you as soon as possible.

*If your emergency is after hours, call our regular number and our voicemail will inform you of how to get in touch with us

Cosmetic Dentistry Services Teeth Whitening and More!

For more information about our dental services,
please contact our Lafayette office or Franklin office today!