My amalgam fillings are beginning to look bad. Can they be improved?
If a silver amalgam filling is loose, needs to be replaced due to breakdown or recurrent decay, many people choose tooth coloured porcelain or resin fillings, inlays, crowns or veneers to achieve a natural looking smile. These materials are strong and colour matched so they’re virtually indistinguishable from natural surrounding teeth.
I would like to whiten my teeth but with so many products available it’s hard to decide which is best. What do you recommend?
The number of whitening products available causes much confusion. Some work well and others not at all. To get a really great result you should use one of the products available from our practice, which has custom-made trays for home application of a whitening gel.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a great way of replacing missing teeth. Your oral as well as general health and the length of time you have been missing the teeth determine your suitability for dental implants. A dental implant is a fine titanium screw precisely placed into the jaw bone during a minor surgical procedure. This acts as a replacement for a missing tooth root and naturally integrates with the bone. When healing is complete, usually taking 4-6 months, a crown or bridge is secured to the implant, restoring your smile and confidence.
There are many toothbrushes on the supermarket shelf, which is right for me?
This is a common question. Much more important than the brand is the type of bristle and the size and shape of the head. A soft bristled brush with a small head is best, the soft bristles massage the gums and a small head allows you to get around each tooth more completely. We recommend replacing your brush every three months because the bristles bend and it stops being effective. The easiest way to remember when to replace your toothbrush is with the change of seasons.
What are impacted wisdom teeth and when should they be removed?
Wisdom teeth become impacted when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for them to emerge straight so they come through at an angle, get stuck and come through the gums partially or not at all. There are a number of reasons for removing un-erupted or impacted teeth. An x-ray may have shown that these teeth could cause problems for the adjacent teeth if left in place. There is also the possibility that you could develop such things as a cyst or abscess causing a major infection. It is best to remove wisdom teeth early to prevent these problems.
It’s been quite a while since I have been to a dentist because I’m apprehensive about procedures, but I know I need a check-up. What can I do?
The first thing is to make a consultation appointment with our friendly team to discuss your concerns. We can walk you through the procedure so you know what’s going to happen before you even lay in the chair. Dental technology and pain relief medication has come a long way in recent years. If you have a new cavity that requires a filling, we use micro-motor drills that generate much less noise and vibration. It is quick and much more quiet than they used to be.
Why is it so important to maintain dental health?
Your oral health will have an impact on your general health and wellbeing. Whilst exercising, eating right and regular health checks are important – looking after your teeth and gums is also essential. Studies have shown a direct correlation between oral and general health.
How can I maintain my smile as I age?
A regular appointment every 6 months for a thorough examination and clean will enable us to detect any dental problems early and limit the extent of its development. It is also essential to brush at least twice each day (after breakfast and dinner) and floss once a day, also after dinner. This will help prevent decay and gum disease. Speak with our team during your next visit, for more information on preventive care and hygiene.
What can I do to improve the health and appearance of my smile?
If your teeth become damaged, lost or simply worn over time, there are a number of options available to treat these problems. If teeth are lost, then dental implants, dentures or bridges may be an option for you. If a tooth needs rebuilding, then crowns could be the solution. For cosmetic changes, teeth whitening, porcelain veneers and cosmetic reshaping are some of the treatments you can consider. During your consultation, we will evaluate your dental health and work with you to determine the best treatment option for your personal circumstance.
Why do teeth seem to darken when people age?
Changes in blood supply to the tooth as well as loss of enamel covering the outside of the tooth due to wear, brushing too hard, smoking and many other factors can result in teeth appearing darker.
What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is a combination of art and dental science. These procedures aim to create beautiful, aesthetically pleasing smiles by utilising the latest restorative technologies and materials and preserving as much tooth structure as possible.
Who is a candidate for cosmetic dental treatment?
Anyone with chipped, stained or crooked teeth, providing they have good oral health, is suitable for cosmetic dental procedures. With the vast range of cosmetic dental treatments available, every smile can be aesthetically enhanced.
Why do root filled teeth require crowns?
Root filled teeth are very brittle and weak after a root canal procedure. In order to protect and increase the lifespan of tooth, a crown is necessary. In addition, root filled teeth are often dark in colour and appear unattractive.
What are the main benefits of white fillings?
The natural appearance of white fillings is the main advantage. Our dentists can blend shades to make a colour almost identical to that of your natural tooth.
Why are my teeth dark and what can I do about it?
Dark teeth is a common problem, particularly among teeth which have undergone root canal therapy. It may also be a sign of decay or just general tooth wear. With our internal bleaching techniques we can help address this by lightening the colour of your teeth from the inside out, reducing the ‘dark tooth’ effect. Our friendly team can give you more information at your next appointment.
