Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, it’s almost inevitable that we will all require a general dentistry procedure at some point in our lives. General dentistry is considered to be those treatments which are designed to preserve the form and function of our teeth. Our aim is to restore function in order that you may eat and smile with confidence again.
Where a tooth has decayed our dentists will remove the decayed material, clean the tooth and restore with a dental filling. At Lagan Dental Care we like to ensure that our patients have as much choice as modern dentistry allows when it comes to treatment options.
A traditional amalgam filling may be used but perhaps more popular are ‘cosmetic’ white composite fillings.
White fillings provide a more natural alternative to the traditional silver amalgam fillings. They also allow for a minimally invasive restoration, aiming to preserve more of your natural tooth.
Whilst we do all we can to preserve natural teeth, occasionally the prognosis is such that an extraction is required.
In such an event our dentists will ensure you are comfortable and that the process is as pain free as possible. They will also be able to discuss possible treatment options to fill the space so that you may maintain your smile going forward.
When the internal parts of a tooth become infected a root canal procedure may be necessary. Where the enamel of your tooth is compromised through decay or injury, bacteria enter and may extend into the internal root canal system. This may result in pain and eventual formation of an abscess therefore prompt treatment is important.
The aim of root canal treatment is to access the inner parts of your tooth, remove the pulp, nerves and infection from the root canals before cleaning and filling. We will then complete the treatment, restoring the tooth with a filling or crown to restore strength and aesthetics.
If the area of decay or damage to the tooth is extensive a filling may be insufficient to restore form, function and aesthetics. In these cases large cavities may be restored with porcelain fillings made high highly skilled laboratory technicians.
These restorations, known as inlays or onlays, provide a strong, aesthetic, alternative to a filling.
Where the damage to a tooth is significant and such that a filling, inlay or onlay is not sufficient to support the remaining tooth, then a crown may be recommended by your dentist as the most suitable treatment option for you. A crown is a protective cover which is fitted over the prepared existing structure of the broken or damaged tooth.
Your dentist will prepare the tooth, involving removing an outer layer of the tooth, leaving a strong inner core. The amount of tooth will be the same as the thickness of the crown.
Crowns may be made from a variety of materials such as gold, metal, porcelain or ceramic. Where an excellent cosmetic appearance is a priority, porcelain or all ceramic crowns, constructed by skilled technicians can provide a natural aesthetic result.
Where a tooth has been lost, a new ‘false’ tooth can be used to replace it, supported on a bridge which is anchored by the adjacent remaining teeth.
Whilst this technique does usually require some preparation of the adjacent natural teeth, the technique provides an option to restore function and appearance of your smile.
Traditional dentures are still a very popular method to replace missing teeth and can be used to replace a single tooth right up to a complete missing arch. Traditional acrylic dentures may be constructed however also available are cobalt chrome dentures or flexi-dentures which provide an alternative option to restore your smile. Dentures don’t just replace missing teeth, they can also restore bone loss, provide lip support and create a more youthful appearance.
For a full range of modern restorative dentistry treatments, please get in touch with the team at Lagan Dental Care on 01236 423 575 to book your appointment.
