BDA

General dentistry

Tooth decay and gum disease are common problems; most people will suffer with some form of it during their lives. As soon as tooth decay occurs, it is important to remove the decay, clean and then repair the tooth.

Fillings

There are two main types of filling material available, Composite (Tooth coloured) and Amalgam (Silver coloured). Composite fillings are more aesthetically pleasing and nowadays tend to be the filling of choice.Your dentist will choose a shade to match your existing teeth, although discolouration may occur over time. Composite fillings may not be appropriate in areas where moisture control is difficult.

Inlays

An inlay is a small setting within the biting surface of the tooth. Onlays are used to cover larger areas. They are long-lasting, hard-wearing, and do not tarnish. Unfortunately, an inlay can not be made by the dentist immediately - an impression of the cavity (prepared and taken by the dentist) will be sent to the laboratory, where a technician will make the inlay or onlay. You will go away with a temporary filling, which your dentist will replace with the inlay once it has been made. Due to the material used and the longer process, this type of filling is more expensive. Ceramic, tooth-coloured inlays are available and can be used in certain situations.

Crowns

A crown, sometimes called a cap, is a way to cover chipped, broken or weakened teeth, strengthening your teeth and restoring your smile. A crown could also be used to protect the tooth following a root filling or to help hold a denture or bridge in place.

Usually your tooth will need to be shaped, under local anaesthetic, and an impression taken by your dentist, which is then sent to the laboratory in order for your crown to be custom-made. You will go away with a temporary crown which your dentist will replace with your custom-made one once it has been made.

Sometimes, especially with root fillings, a post may need to be used to help retain the crown. Posts can be pre-made from titanium or carbon fibres and your dentist can cement them directly into the root canal, ready for the crown to be fitted over the top. In certain circumstances it is necessary to custom-make a post, which is made by a dental technician.

Bridges

A bridge is used to fill the space left by a missing tooth, giving you back a full smile. They are only possible if your surrounding teeth are healthy and strong, as it is these which are used to support the bridge. They are usually made from porcelain or porcelain bonded to metal.

It is sometimes important to replace missing teeth not only to improve the appearance of your smile, but also to prevent alterations to your bite. Your dentist will help you choose the best method to replace any missing teeth you may have.

Implants

An implant is used to fill a space left by a missing tooth and unlike a bridge, has the advantage of not involving any adjacent teeth. Implants can also be used to make Dentures more secure.

Dentures

Dentures are still widely used to replace missing teeth, to improve function and appearance. It is important to have the mouth well maintained in order for the denture to fit comfortably. Dentures can either be made of acrylic or a cast framework. Metal dentures are stronger but more expensive. Your dentist will advise which material option is the best for you.