A) Tooth Coloured Restorations (Fillings)
A) Tooth Coloured Restorations (Fillings) back to top
Need a cavity filled, but don't want a mouthful of metal? Our dentists use a composite resin, a natural-looking, tooth-coloured alternative to unsightly silver fillings. Silver amalgam fillings are outdated and hinder the beautiful restoration of your smile.
Composite resin is a tough, plastic material that is simple to apply and virtually impossible to detect. It comes in many different shades so that we can select a good match to our patient's natural tooth colour. The colour-matched resin is then packed into the tooth cavity and exposed to a special light that causes it to harden rapidly. The end result - a filling so natural looking that you can barely tell it is there!
| Dr. G.V. Black, known to many as the father of modern dentistry, perfected the use of amalgam fillings in the late 19th century. Amalgam is a mixture of mercury with other metal alloys that is place in the tooth where decay has been removed. However today, with advances in dental technology, plastic composite resins are now available that serve the same purpose, but match the colour of the teeth. |  |
G.V. Black would be proud that dentists are now able to provide reliable cavity fillings without compromising a patient’s aesthetics.
Dr Ogo Eze and her team have placed thousands of composite, tooth coloured fillings. Whether restoring new cavities, or replacing old amalgam fillings, we assure you that your teeth will look like new.
B) Crowns and Bridges back to top
Traditionally, people with missing teeth, or structural tooth problems, like fractures or teeth severely damaged by decay, were subject to endless dental office visits and a mouthful of very unnatural looking and feeling partial denture teeth. We have advanced the science of crowns and bridges to offer solutions that remedy problems safely and restore a full, attractive, natural smile.
Crowns
- What is a Crown?
- What are the Benefits?
- What are the Costs?
- What is the Procedure?
- How long do they last?
- Schedule An Appointment
Bridges
- What is a Bridge?
- What are the Benefits?
- What are the Costs?
- What is the Procedure?
- How long do they last?
- Schedule An Appointment
When a tooth is fractured, has a large, old filling, or is severely damaged by decay, we may recommend the placement of a crown, or cap. Crowns strengthen and protect the remaining tooth structure and can improve the appearance of your smile. Types of crowns include the full porcelain crown, the porcelain-fused-to-metal crown and different variations of these. Crowns surround the entire tooth, unlike a veneer which just covers the visible surface of the tooth. Fitting a crown requires at least two visits to our office.
Crowns - What are the Benefits? back to top
Before crowns, the only real option for a broken down tooth was extraction. Crowns have given dentists, and in turn patients, the ability to fix certain dental situations.
Cavities, or dental decay, occur when acid-forming bacteria in the mouth are supplied with sugars. With these sugars as their food, the bacteria produce acid that eats away at the tooth, creating cavities. Usually, cavities can be drilled out and filled with tooth-coloured composite (or silver amalgam) fillings. However once too much tooth structure is lost, fillings will no longer suffice and the tooth will need to either be extracted or crowned.
In addition to cavities, age, wear, and fracture are other reasons a tooth may require a crown. With age, teeth tend to turn yellow, wear down, chip, and become less attractive. In addition, teeth can fracture from over-use or by accident. In these situations as well, crowns are a great way to restore function, aesthetics, and beauty to a smile.
Crowns - What are the Costs? back to top
Crowns are customized per patient, so to state their exact cost is not possible. However, when faced with the alternative of extraction, crowns are a great, simple, and cost effective way to save a tooth.
Teeth are part of your body, and an extremely important part at that. To extract a tooth instead of letting it function in your mouth for years to come is a shame and a disservice.
In two easy visits, crowns can transform your smile back to health and aesthetic beauty, and keep it that way for many years if not the rest of your life.
Please refer to our Professional Fees
Crowns - What is the Procedure? back to top
Making a crown for a tooth is a multi-step procedure usually requiring 2 dental visits:
1.) Preparation of Tooth: First, the tooth must be prepared for the crown. This preparation involved removing approximately 1-2mm of tooth structure from around the entire visible tooth. Usually, much of the tooth that is removed has already been damaged by decay and/or fracture.
2.) Impression: Next, an impression of the prepared tooth is taken. This impression is send to the dental lab so that they can create a new crown for the tooth that fits the prepared tooth exactly.
3.) Temps: After the preparation of the tooth, a temporary crown is placed on the tooth so the patient can function normally between appointments. This temp is removed at the second visit when the final crown from the lab is ready for insertion.
4.) Lab Work: We use one the finest dental labs in the world. They create our crowns from the finest porcelain, noble, and precious metals in the world. Crowns are usually created 1) Completely of porcelain (usually front teeth), 2) From porcelain with a metal framework underneath (usually back teeth for rigidity), or 3) From gold for unique circumstances. From the impression the lab is able to create a beautiful, natural, new crown for the tooth.
5.) Placement: After the lab technician creates the customized crown for the patient, our dentist skilfully cements the crown into the patient's mouth at their second visit. He also makes any necessary adjustments at this time.
Crowns are a great way to make broken down, decayed teeth look like new again. You can expect crowns to last for many years to keep your smile healthy, functional, and beautiful!
Crowns - How long do they last? back to top
Two of the major questions that people ask when it comes to crowns are, "What is the long-term success rate?" and "How long will they last?".
Crowns have been known to stay in the mouth for over 20 years. With proper oral hygiene and care, there is no reason why crowns cannot last for the rest of your life.
Of course, as with any dental procedure, crowns may last more or less than the average expectancy, and accidents such as breakage can happen as with natural teeth.
However we are confident that crowns with greatly improve your oral health and appearance for years to come.
Bridges are used to fill in the space of a missing tooth with a natural looking substitute. Bridges can be supported by adjacent teeth, by implants, or by a combination of both. When done correctly, a bridge can make an otherwise ugly gap in your smile look natural and untouched.
Bridges - What are the Benefits? back to top
Although implants are an extremely viable option for replacing missing teeth, sometimes they may not be best suited for an individual’s situation. This can often be the case if the 2 teeth adjacent to a gap need to be crowned anyway. In that situation, bridges are a great way to fix a gap in your smile!
The benefits of bridges are that they can fill most gaps, they last a long time, and they look great when done by our expert dental team!
Bridges - What are the Costs? back to top
Bridges are customized per patient, so to state their exact cost is not possible. The cost is usually proportional to the number of teeth that are being replaced, and the location of the teeth being replaced.
Bridges are a very cost effective option, however, because they last for a very long time and can rebuild a beat up smile.
Bridges - What is the Procedure? back to top
Making a bridge for a tooth is a multi-step procedure that usually requires at least 3 visits to our practice:
1.) Preparation: First, the teeth adjacent to the gap must be prepared for the bridge. These preparations are similar to crown preparations, and are preferably done on teeth that would need to be crowned anyway. One, two, or even three teeth on each side of the gap may need to be prepared, depending on how many teeth need to be replaced.
2.) Impression: Next, an impression of entire region is taken, prepared teeth and gap. This impression is send to the dental lab so that they can create the bridge from porcelain and metal. The bridge is adapted perfectly to the tissues of the gap as too look natural but not irritate the tissue.
3.) Temps: After the preparation of the teeth and impressions, a temporary bridge is made to fill the gap between visits. This temp bridge gives the patient an idea of what the final restoration will look like.
4.) Lab Work: We use one the finest dental labs in the world. They create bridges from the finest and hardest porcelain and metals in the world. The bridges are custom made by patient in order to match colour, texture, and make the new teeth look perfectly natural.
5.) Placement: After the lab technician creates the customized bridge for the patient, our dentist cements the bridge into the patient's mouth and makes any necessary adjustments so that the fit is perfect.
Bridges - How long do they last? back to top
"How long will they last?" you might ask.
Bridges are meant to last a lifetime. With the proper care and cleaning, there is no reason why a bridge cannot last over 15 years.
Of course, like anything in the mouth, bridges are subject to many forces and breakage is possible, just like natural teeth. But rest assured, a bridge is a great option for filling that unattractive gap in your mouth.
C) Root Canal Treatment back to top
What is a root canal?
A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need of dental implants or bridges.
At the centre of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums.
How is a root canal performed?
If you experience any of these symptoms, our office will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased nerve. This injured nerve is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually involves local anaesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is unfavourable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment. We use local anaesthesia to eliminate discomfort. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.
What happens after treatment?
When your root canal therapy has been completed, a restoration is placed on top. Then often a crown (cap) will need to be made to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available to help you. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.
How much will it cost?
The cost associated with this procedure can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth. Please refer to our professional fees.
D) Tooth Extractions back to top
Tooth extraction is a minor surgical procedure. Therefore, it is natural that temporary changes will occur in the mouth afterward. Usually you will be functioning normally in just a few days. In the meantime, you should follow a few simple rules to help promote healing, prevent complications, and make yourself more comfortable.
ANESTHETICS
The length of time you experience numbness varies, depending on the type of anaesthetic you have received. While your mouth is numb, you will want to be careful not to bite your cheek, lip, or tongue. The numbness should subside within a few hours. Do not eat until the numbness wears off.
BLEEDING
Our surgeon will place a gauze pack on the extraction site to limit bleeding and while clotting takes place. This gauze pack is usually left in place for about 15 minutes after your extraction. Do not chew on the pack. There may be some bleeding or oozing after the pack is removed. If so, follow this procedure:
- Fold a piece of clean gauze into a pad thick enough to bite on. Dampen the pad and place it directly on the extraction site.
- Apply moderate pressure by closing the teeth firmly over the pad. Maintain this pressure for about 30 minutes. If the pad becomes soaked, replace it with a clean one as necessary.
- Do not suck on the extraction site.
- A slight amount of blood may leak at the extraction site until a clot forms. However, if heaving bleeding continues, call your dentist. (Remember, though, that a lot of saliva and a little blood can look like a lot of bleeding.
- Avoid smoking for 24-48 hours.
MEDICATION
Our office may prescribe medication to control pain and prevent infection. Use it only as directed. If the medication prescribed does not seem to work for you, do not increase dosage. If you have prolonged or severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or fever call our office immediately. We will give you exact instructions on how to care for your problem.
SWELLING AND PAIN
After a tooth is removed, you may have some discomfort and notice some swelling. You can help reduce swelling and pain by applying cold compresses to the face. An ice bag or cold, moist cloth can be used periodically. The dentist may give you specific instructions on how long and how often to use a cold compress. We may also give you a plastic bag of ice to use on your way home from the office.
DIET
After the extraction, drink lots of liquids and eat soft, nutrition foods. Avoid alcoholic beverages and hot liquids. Begin eating solid foods the next day or as soon as you can chew foods comfortably. For about two days, try to chew food on the side opposite the surgical site. If you are troubled by nausea and vomiting, call our office (or the surgeon) for advice.
RINSING
The day AFTER the extraction, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (half a teaspoon of salt in an 8 oz. glass of warm water). Rinsing after meals is important to keep food particles out of the extraction site, but remember not to rinse your mouth vigorously. Avoid using a mouth rinse or mouthwash during this early healing period.
ORAL HYGIENE
It is important to continue to floss your teeth and brush thoroughly at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. The tongue should also be brushed. This will help eliminate the bad breath and unpleasant taste this is common after an extraction. Always use a soft-bristled brush so that you do not injure the tissues in your mouth. Following extraction, avoid cleaning the teeth next to the healing tooth socket for one or two days after the surgical procedure.
E) Hygiene/ Periodontal Care back to top
Dental hygiene appointments are vital to ensure oral health.
Gum disease travels silently and is a major cause of halitosis or ‘bad breath’. Over 70% of adults in the UK have some form of it.
The build up of bacteria and tartar around the gums and underlying bone, the action of bacterial toxins and the body’s own reaction then causes tissue destruction.
Most cases are reversible if treated early. However, neglected areas lead to irreversible bone loss and eventual tooth loss if not treated.
Our Dental Hygienist, will remove the plaque from around your teeth. Plaque is a soft, sticky substance that builds up on your teeth and is mostly made of bacteria. The bacteria feed on sugar from food and drink producing acids as a waste product. The acid attacks the teeth by dissolving minerals in the tooth surface which can result in decay.
If plaque is allowed to remain, it can lead to severe inflammatory processes and active periodontal (gum) disease. Gum disease is one of the major causes of tooth loss. Smoking is also as significant a risk as plaque for causing gum disease, therefore giving up smoking is vital for successful treatment.
Studies have also linked gum disease to heart problems and stroke, while other evidence shows that the microbes involved in gum disease can be passed onto family members via saliva. Thus it has never been so important to keep your mouth healthy.
The good news is that with regular hygiene appointments the risks of gum disease are greatly reduced. During each visit our hygienist will monitor you for early signs of disease, whether this is tooth decay or gum disease - this is in keeping with our strong belief in prevention and minimal intervention. A great way to ensure prevention of gum disease and therefore save money is to join our membership plan.
With active gum disease, a special programme will be devised for your specific needs to stabilise the disease. This will include more complex cleaning techniques and oral hygiene aids. Gum disease is an ongoing disease and must be controlled by you at home coupled with monitoring and lifetime treatment at a dental practice. In severe cases, we work with some of the UK’s finest periodontists to ensure you receive the very best care available.
