Nightguard Therapy
Sleep bruxism (teeth grinding) is a common symptom that people suffer from. It is characterized by the repeated clenching and grinding of one’s teeth. While it’s usually prominent during sleeping hours, a lot of people do it subconsciously when they are awake. Bruxism can cause an accelerated loss of bone and wears down the tooth structure. A nightguard is the most effective and least intrusive treatment for the majority of patients. It works to keep the chewing muscles relaxed and prevents teeth from coming in contact with each other while you sleep.
Sealants
Dental sealants are thin coatings that are applied to the grooves and pits of teeth. They work to protect teeth from decay. They are very common for children to get on their premolars and permanent molars in order to protect their teeth during their cavity-prone years. Adults can benefit from them too. Dental sealants typically last for several years.
Tooth Desensitization
To desensitize a tooth our dentists apply a thin coat of fluoride gel. The fluoride gel works to strengthen enamel and reduce teeth sensitivity caused by receding gums. This stops the transmission to the nerves that cause pain. The appointment only takes a few minutes and has long-lasting results.
Sedation – Oral Sedation
Oral sedation may be offered to nervous and anxious patients in order to allow them to have necessary dental treatment in a more comfortable fashion. It consists of taking an oral sedative prior to the appointment. Throughout, our dentists monitor the patient to ensure comfort and a positive treatment experience. Patients will need to have a family member or friend accompany them to and from their appointment.
Fillings
White/Composite Fillings
White/ composite fillings are a great aesthetic option as they are tooth-coloured fillings placed after decayed or unhealthy tooth structure is removed. The dentist can blend the shades to create a colour that matches the actual tooth, which creates an illusion of there being no filling at all. Composites bond to the tooth and support the remaining tooth structure. It helps prevent breakage and insulates the tooth from changes in temperature.
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings are silver fillings that are occasionally recommended for back teeth (such as molars) where white fillings may be difficult to place.
Root Canal
A root canal may be needed if the nerve in the centre of the tooth becomes infected due to a large cavity or through trauma. An infected tooth can become quite painful. Root canals are used as a method to save damaged teeth. The dentist removes the infected nerve tissue inside the tooth and then places a soft filling material inside the root, helping any infection to heal. The tooth is then sealed with a filling and typically a crown is placed over the weakened tooth to protect it and to restore the tooth back to function.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays or onlays are the perfect answer for patients who do not need a full crown but are in need of a long-lasting restoration. The restoration procedure uses porcelain material to replace missing or weak tooth structure, in a conservative manner.
Crowns
Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are placed over “damaged” teeth to restore its size, strength, shape and improve its function. They can be used to protect weak teeth from breaking, as a restorative technique for worn teeth, to keep dental bridges in place, cover discoloured teeth or for cosmetic purposes. Root canal treated teeth will benefit from a crown which provides support and strengthens the tooth after treatment.
Implants
Dental implants are artificial roots that are placed in your jaw bone. Artificial teeth are then attached to the implants. They are a great option for people who have lost teeth as a result of injury, periodontal disease, infection or decay. They are made of medical grade titanium that is compatible with your jaw bone, and can support crowns or bridges that feel, look and function just like natural teeth. They can also be used to support dentures and eliminate a lot of problems and irritation patients have with removable dentures.
Bridge
Similar to crowns, bridges are typically used as a replacement for one or more missing teeth. As the name suggests, they are used to bridge the gap that is created when teeth are lost. Bridges are constructed from two or more crowns that have been bonded together. In addition, they help restore a patient’s natural smile and ability to speak and chew properly.