Your Seasoned Dentist Near Lalor Park

What are cosmetic dentistry services?

Cosmetic dentistry services encompass a range of procedures designed to improve the appearance of teeth and smiles. These services include teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, and dental surgery to correct aesthetic issues and enhance oral functionality.

How is the dental implant procedure carried out?

Patient Assessment

The first step in the dental implant procedure involves a comprehensive evaluation, where the dentist assesses the patient’s oral health, including the need for teeth cleaning or treatment of any gum disease. This assessment helps determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for implants.

Imaging and Planning

Detailed X-rays and 3D images are taken to map out the precise location of the implant in the jawbone. This imaging ensures that the implant will be correctly positioned to support the dental crown and align with the surrounding teeth.

Teeth Cleaning and Pre-Surgery Preparation

Prior to the implant surgery, a professional teeth cleaning may be conducted to ensure the mouth is free of any plaque and to reduce the risk of infection post-surgery. If any teeth are remaining in the area where the implant will be placed, they will be removed.

Bone Grafting (if required)

For patients who lack sufficient jawbone density, a bone graft may be necessary to provide adequate bone to support the implant. This procedure involves taking bone from another area of the body or using synthetic bone material, which is then grafted onto the jawbone.

Surgical Insertion of the Implant

The dental implant procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, possibly with sedation for patient comfort. The dentist makes a small incision in the gum to expose the bone and then drills a hole into the bone. The titanium implant is then screwed into place.

Recovery

Following the placement of the implant, a healing period is required, which can last several months. During this time, a process called osseointegration occurs, where the jawbone grows around and bonds with the surface of the implant. This integration helps provide a stable base for the new tooth.

Preparation for the Crown

Following the completion of osseointegration, an abutment is affixed to the implant. This component serves as the connection between the implant and the dental crown. The gums are allowed to heal around the abutment before the final crown is placed.

Final Restoration

After the gums have healed, an impression of the mouth is taken, which is used to create the dental crown. This crown is designed to blend seamlessly with the patient’s existing teeth in terms of shape, size, and colour. The crown is then securely attached to the abutment.

Ensuring Long-Term Success

Following the placement of the crown, patients must practise good oral hygiene, including regular teeth cleaning and dental check-ups, to maintain the health of the implant and surrounding teeth. Proper care ensures the longevity of the implant and overall dental health.

What is the process involved in performing a root canal?

Comprehensive Dental Examination

The process starts with a thorough dental examination where the dentist assesses the health of your teeth and identifies the need for a root canal. This typically involves X-rays or CT scans to view the extent of decay or infection in the surrounding bone and within the root canal system.

Anaesthesia and Tooth Isolation

Root canal treatment is usually performed under local anaesthesia, which numbs the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring the procedure is as comfortable as possible. The tooth is then isolated with a rubber dam, a sheet that prevents bacteria in saliva from entering the treatment area.

Removing the Infected Pulp

The dentist will make a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. Using special instruments, the infected or inflamed pulp is removed carefully from the canals. This part of the procedure may take several visits, depending on the complexity of the root canals and the level of infection.

Cleaning and Shaping the Canals

After the pulp has been removed, the canals are cleaned with antiseptic and antibacterial solutions. Small files are used to shape the canals to receive the root canal fillings and to ensure all infected material is removed. This step is crucial to prevent reinfection and ensure a long-lasting dental treatment.

Filling the Canals

Following the cleaning and drying of the canals, a biocompatible material is used to fill them, commonly gutta-percha, which is a rubber-like substance. The canals are sealed with adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing and to prevent bacteria from entering in the future.

Restoring the Tooth

A temporary filling material is placed on the opening of the tooth to close the access hole until a permanent restoration, like a crown, can be placed. This restoration step is critical as it protects the tooth from fracture and restores it to full function.

Ensuring Successful Healing

After the procedure, instructions for care will be provided to ensure successful healing. This includes avoiding biting on the treated tooth until it is fully restored with a permanent crown. Pain management, usually with over-the-counter pain relievers, is advised to manage any discomfort.

Regular Check-Ups and Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing is essential to keep the treated tooth and all healthy teeth free from further decay or infection. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also crucial to monitor the treated area and to provide affordable dental care that maintains overall oral health.

When does tooth pain qualify as a dental emergency?

Tooth pain qualifies as a dental emergency when it is severe, persistent, and causes significant discomfort or disruption to daily activities. It may also indicate an underlying issue, such as an abscess, severe decay, or infection, that requires immediate professional attention to prevent further complications or damage. If the pain is accompanied by swelling, fever, or an inability to eat or sleep, it should be addressed by a dentist promptly.