Restorative Dentistry

Why are Fillings Necessary?

Fillings are used to restore teeth that have lost part of their structure, either to decay or trauma. Repairing a tooth with a filling restores strength to the damaged tooth so it can be used to bite and chew normally and protects it from further damage.

What is the Process for a Filling?

Your tooth will be numbed before all the decay is removed. Next, the cavity will be filled with a suitable filling material which most commonly is tooth coloured composite resin. Composite resin can be good for filling cavities in more visible areas in the front of the mouth.  Once the filling material is in place it will be shaped and adjusted so you can bite properly.

How Does a Tooth Develop a Cavity?

Teeth can develop cavities if exposed to excess sugars and acids. Bacteria in the mouth thrive on sugary substances and produce strong acids as a by-product. These acids attack the tooth enamel, eventually eroding it and causing a cavity. Our dentists check your teeth for any signs of cavities at each regular examination and if necessary, can repair these teeth.

Why Might I Need a Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatments are carried out on infected teeth. Teeth can become infected if they are badly decayed or broken down as this allows bacteria to access the central part of the tooth which is called the pulp. The pulp consists of soft tissues including nerves and blood vessels that extend right into the roots of the teeth.

A root canal treatment eliminates the bacteria causing the infection, relieving pain and discomfort and saving the tooth so it can be fully restored with a crown. The only alternative to a root canal treatment is tooth extraction.

What are the Symptoms of an Infected Tooth?

The most commons symptom is pain; the tooth may throb or will feel painful if you bite or chew. The gum around the tooth may look swollen or red and you could have an unpleasant taste in your mouth. A pimple might form on the gum near to the tooth as the infection builds up. It is important to get any dental pain diagnosed as soon as possible as this will prevent the bacterial infection from spreading and potentially affecting your general health, and we are more likely to be able to save the tooth.

What is the Procedure for a Root Canal Treatment?

The procedure is very straightforward and should be no worse than a filling. Your tooth will be numbed before the dentist accesses the pulp through the crown of the tooth. They will remove all the tissues in the pulp and in the root canals that extend into the tooth roots before sealing up the tooth. The tooth will be permanently restored as soon as your dentist is sure all the infection has been eliminated. Once the tooth is fully restored it can be used normally and should last for many years or hopefully for life.

What is a Dental Crown?

A crown is sometimes called a cap as it covers or ‘caps’ a tooth completely. The crown fits tightly over the tooth, extending right down to just below the gum line so none of the original tooth is visible, sealing the tooth and protecting it from decay and infection. Your crown can have a precious metal substructure which is covered up with porcelain or it may be entirely metal-free. All-ceramic crowns provide the very best aesthetic results as they have a similar translucency to natural teeth. The very latest all-ceramic materials are extremely strong and are suitable for crowning back teeth. One Smile also has a CEREC machine which can mill beautiful all-porcelain crowns while you wait.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge will fill in the gap left by one or more missing teeth. The teeth adjacent to the gap are called abutment teeth and must be crowned as these crowns are joined on to the replacement teeth. Your new bridge can be made using a metal substructure covered with porcelain or you may choose an all-ceramic bridge. This is a popular choice for replacing front teeth where aesthetics are most important.

What is the Procedure for Crowns & Bridges?

Your teeth will be shaped and ground down. It is necessary to remove some of your natural tooth structure as otherwise the crowns would appear bulky and unnatural. Once the teeth have been shaped, your dentist will take a detailed impression which is sent to the dental laboratory with your prescription, after which it is returned to the dental surgery for fitting and cementing in position.

How Long Will My Crown or Bridge Last?

Your new crown or bridge should last on average for ten years or more. Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups and professional cleanings will help prolong its life.

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