White fillings
White (composite) fillings offer a natural looking way to support the remaining structure of a decayed tooth and prevent further breakage or discomfort. They can also be used to replace unsightly amalgam fillings.
Their chief advantage is the way they blend so well with your natural teeth and though once considered a less hardwearing option than metal fillings, they are now made of durable materials so can offer a long lasting solution.
The treatment process
- The mouldable resin is carefully applied in thin layers to the decayed area.
- This resin is carefully shaped and then hardened with a special light.
- A final polish completes the look of your newly restored tooth.
Crowns
Crowns are smart little covers that mimic natural teeth and mask unsightly issues such as:
- Chipped teeth
- Decay
- Fillings
- Root filled teeth
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials including porcelain bonded to precious metal, porcelain on its own, ceramic, glass or gold alloy.
The treatment process
- We prepare the affected tooth by removing a thin layer of the outer surface, being sure to leave a strong core to maintain the health of the tooth.
- Impressions are taken and the shade of your teeth noted to allow for a perfect match.
- We fit a temporary restoration to protect the prepared tooth while you are waiting for your shiny new crown
- When ready, the crown will be checked for fit and appearance and then fixed in place with dental cement.
Inlays and onlays
Unlike crowns, inlays and onlays don’t cover the whole tooth but are used to restore areas of more extensive decay that cannot be treated effectively with a normal filling, usually at the back of the mouth. They are made from hard wearing materials like porcelain, gold or composite resin.
An inlay is created outside the mouth from an impression taken of the tooth and then cemented within the cavity. An onlay covers more of the tooth and extends over the top edges.
The treatment process
- Any decay or damage will be removed to clean and prepare the area.
- We take an impression of the damaged tooth and this is used to create an inlay or onlay that matches the exact shape of the biting surface.
- A temporary restoration will be fitted to protect the prepared cavity.
- When we are sure the specially designed inlay or onlay is a great fit, we will fix it to the tooth with a strong dental adhesive.
Veneers
A veneer is a thin shell that fits over the front of a tooth to sort out poor alignment, chips or discolouration. They are a great way to transform teeth as very little preparation is needed before the porcelain veneer is affixed using a super strong adhesive.
The treatment process
- A minimal amount of enamel may be removed but this is not always necessary.
- We take an impression and note your tooth colour so the veneer can be designed to fit perfectly.
- Once ready the veneer is bonded permanently to the troublesome tooth.
Root Canal (Endodontics)
Root canal therapy is used to treat teeth with damaged pulp to help avoid extractions and prevent further pain. It features the careful removal of affected tissue, followed by protection of the tooth so it remains intact and functional.
Pulp extends from the crown to the tips of the root and is filled with living tissue, cells and nerves. It can be damaged by decay, a deep filling or trauma to the tooth and symptoms can include pain, increased sensitivity, discolouration and gum tenderness.
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