General Dentistry FAQ
What are white fillings?
For over 150 years standard fillings have been made out of a silvery-grey material called ‘amalgam’. This is still one of the strongest and longest-lasting materials available for fillings. However, many people find it unattractive and some are concerned about possible health risks.
What are white fillings made from?
White fillings are a popular alternative to amalgam fillings. They are made form a strong resin that is bonded to the tooth. White fillings come in different shades so it is much easier to find a perfect match for the shade of a particular tooth. In most cases, it is quite impossible to see that the tooth even has a filling. Sometimes white filling material can be used to cover unsightly marks on the teeth, in a similar way to veneers.
What do I do if the tooth is badly broken down or has a very large filling?
When a tooth is badly broken or heavily filled, the dentist may need to place a porcelain or resin inlay/onlay to restore its appearance and strength. Sometimes a crown may be necessary if there is very little tooth structure left.
Q. What is an inlay/onlay or crown?
When a filling to too big to replace with a white filling an inlay/onlay is a great strong and aesthetic option. An inlay is good for restoring a tooth with remaining cusps. An onlay is better when the cusps of the tooth also need protection. They are made from resin or porcelain. Porcelain being the strongest and longer lasting. A crown fits around the existing tooth and is the strongest dental restoration.
What is the procedure for an inlay/onlay or a crown?
The usual procedure for an inlay/onlay or crown involves shaping the tooth under local anesthetic and then taking an impression using a rubber-like material. The impression is then sent to the laboratory along with the details of the shade to be used, where the technician makes the inlay/onlay or crown.
What happens to my teeth while the inlay/onlay or crown is being made?
While your crown or inlay/onlay is being made, the prepared tooth can be protected with a temporary crown or temporary inlay/onlay, which is easily removed just before fitting the permanent one. In most cases, the temporary is in place for about two weeks.
What is a crown made of?
Crowns can be made of a variety of different materials, such as porcelain or porcelain bonded to gold. New materials are continually being introduced. There are different crowns for different situations and it is a good idea to discuss with your dentist which crown would be best for you. All ceramic or porcelain crowns have the best aesthetics.
What is a bridge?
Conventional bridges are ideal for people who only have one or two teeth missing. Bridges are made by crowning the teeth on either side of the gap and having the false tooth/teeth in the middle. They are fixed in the same way as crowns. These bridges are usually made of precious metal bonded to porcelain or all porcelain.
What is an adhesive bridge?
Adhesive bridges are another way of bridging a gap, and less of the tooth needs removing. These bridges are made up of a false tooth with metal ‘wings’ on either side. These wings are bonded to the teeth on either side, with very little adjustment of these teeth. The bridge is fitted using very strong resin cement. Conventional bridges are stronger and more successful long term.
What Is An Endodontist?
Endodontic or root canal treatment (RCT) is a procedure which is necessary to save a badly broken or very painful tooth dentist Essex informs us. The treatment is carried out by a specialist called an Endodontist. Endo means within, so an Endodontist treats a tooth from within, in cosmetic dentistry this is known as root canal treatment. An Endodontist is a qualified cosmetic dentist who has undergone further post graduate training so that he can specialise in this particular field of dentistry in Essex.
What Is A Hygienist?
A dental hygienist in dentistry in Essex is a part of the Essex dentist team, who look after the oral hygiene of cosmetic dentistry patients. A cosmetic dentist will always ask a hygienist to see a patient before any cosmetic dental treatment. The job of the hygienist is to improve the patients oral health by cleaning below the gum line where most people cannot clean with an ordinary toothbrush. They also teach patients how to floss and care for their teeth and mouth.
If you are interested in a general dentistry contact Perfect Smile Spa, one of London and Essex leading cosmetic dental clinic on 01708 442114 or email care@perfectsmilespa.co.uk
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