We're like the repair shop for your pearly whites, fixing up any chips, cracks, or mishaps that life throws your way.

Modern white fillings that you’ll hardly notice are there.

Times have changed since unattractive metal fillings were the norm. Out with the old, and in with the natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing white fillings.

Dental fillings are materials used to replicate missing tooth structure that may have resulted from tooth breakage or decay leading to a cavity. The filling material helps restore the tooth's function while also sealing the more vulnerable inner layer from harmful oral bacteria, which can infiltrate, damage the nerve, and cause further decay.

Dental decay is entirely preventable, but if left untreated, it can progress, leading to pain, tooth death, and potential tooth loss. If decay begins and causes a cavity, your dentist will first demonstrate the issue using our intra-oral camera or X-rays and discuss the underlying causes. Next, your dentist will painlessly remove the decay and fill the remaining cavity with high-quality dental composite material.

With further advances in dental composite materials, we can provide a restoration that lasts as long as a metal filling while looking appealing at the same time.

Reach out to our Thornbury clinic for more information.

Ceramic or Gold Lab-Made 'Half Crowns' to Protect Weakened Parts of a Tooth.

At The Northside Dentist, we prioritise the conservation of tooth tissue. Another effective method for restoring a decayed, damaged, or injured tooth is the use of inlays and onlays. These are ceramic, lab-made fillings that enhance strength while minimising tooth reduction. If you prefer a more luxurious option, they can also be crafted in gold.

Occasionally, particularly after multiple fillings, a tooth may be left structurally compromised, leading to weakness and potential breakage. While a composite filling may suffice, it’s important to note that fillings can contract slightly as they set. This can potentially cause leakage at their margins, especially with larger fillings.

This is where inlays and onlays come into play. They serve as an intermediary between a filling and a crown, being fabricated outside of the mouth in a lab to ensure a precise custom fit for your cavity. These restorations are made from porcelain or gold and are cemented or bonded into place, ensuring an excellent fit that provides strength and integrity at the tooth-restoration interface. They also require significantly less tooth preparation than a crown, look fantastic, are more resistant to bacterial infiltration, and boast impressive longevity.

First Appointment

After examining the tooth, taking an X-ray to check for infection, and discussing all available options, the tooth will be prepared for an inlay or onlay. This preparation involves removing any decay, undercuts, or weakened tooth structure, and taking an impression to send to the lab. A shade will be selected with your input to allow the ceramist to create a beautiful, lifelike restoration.

Second Appointment

Usually scheduled two weeks later, this appointment will involve the removal of the temporary restoration we made for you and the trial fitting of the new restoration. We will check for comfort, bite, and fit, and the restoration will be presented to you for final approval before it is cemented or bonded into place. Any excess cement will be removed, and thorough oral hygiene will be demonstrated.

Book an appointment today at our High Street dental clinic to see if this treatment choice is right for you!

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You need not fear; advances in modern dentistry allow for virtually pain-free treatments and high success rates.

A Little Anatomy

Within the root of the tooth, there exists a nerve and blood supply, contained within small canals that run the length of the root. Once the nerve and blood vessels are irreversibly damaged, typically due to severe decay or breakage, there are two options: root canal treatment or extraction.

You may require root canal treatment if you experience:

• Spontaneous, long-lasting pain

• Pain that disrupts your sleep or keeps you awake at night

• Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold drinks

• Discomfort when biting together, or if a tooth feels raised in your bite

• Swelling or an abscess in the gum next to a tooth

• Painkillers that provide little to no relief

Root canal treatment involves the removal of a dead, dying, or infected nerve from within the canals of a tooth root. This procedure typically requires at least two appointments to ensure the canals are accurately measured, cleaned, and filled, and that a solid, durable restoration is placed on top. Due to the sometimes unexpected complexities of the canals, root canals have a success rate of approximately 85-90%. In rare cases, a referral to a specialist may be necessary.

The First Appointment

The first appointment involves achieving appropriate anaesthesia, cleaning the tooth of decay, locating the canals, and placing a medicament to soothe the tooth and alleviate pain. A temporary filling will then be placed to provide function during the interim between visits.

The Second Appointment

The subsequent appointment, typically scheduled four to six weeks later, will involve measuring the lengths of the canals, using progressively wider files to clean the canal walls, and an irritant to wash out any remaining nerve remnants. If the root canal treatment is to be completed over two visits, the canals will be filled and sealed, and a final restoration placed on top. However, this final step may be conducted in a third visit if the canal shape or anatomy proves more complicated.

After your treatment, it is normal to experience slight discomfort as the tooth settles down. This usually subsides within a few days. It is advisable to have a crown placed over a root canal-treated tooth within 12 months of completion due to the risk of fracture.

Are you in pain now?

If you're in pain, or have a broken-down tooth, call us at our High Street dental practice for a same day emergency appointment.

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When a tooth breaks, a nerve becomes infected, or even a troublesome wisdom tooth causes discomfort, extraction may sometimes be the only option. There’s no need to worry; we’ll take care of you.

Reasons a Tooth May Require Extraction:

• Severe breakage or fracture exposing the nerve

• Dental abscess

• Impacted teeth, typically wisdom teeth

• Orthodontic considerations

While we will do everything possible to save a tooth, there are occasions when it simply cannot be preserved. Once we reach that decision, and all options, including replacement alternatives, have been thoroughly discussed, we will proceed with the extraction.

Firstly, we will administer anaesthetic to numb the tooth and the surrounding area. After confirming that you are fully anaesthetised, we will gently apply pressure around the tooth using a series of instruments. This process will help loosen and rock the tooth within its socket, preparing it for extraction.

You will not experience any pain; however, you may feel pressure from the pushing. This is because the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals are numbed by the anaesthetic, while the nerves that convey pressure sensations remain unaffected.

For wisdom teeth, we will start with taking a radiograph and explaining the extraction procedure. For any particularly tricky or difficult wisdom teeth extractions, we may refer to our local, brillaint oral surgeon.

Rest Assured

Our Thornbury dental practice aims to make the extraction of a wisdom tooth as quick and pain-free as possible.

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Dental implants are a modern and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post that is surgically embedded into the jawbone, serving as an artificial root for a replacement tooth. This post is then topped with a custom-made crown that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.

Key Components of Dental Implants:

1. Implant Post: The titanium post is biocompatible, meaning it integrates seamlessly with the jawbone, providing a sturdy foundation for the replacement tooth. This integration, known as osseointegration, is crucial for the long-term success of the implant.

2. Abutment: Once the implant post has integrated with the bone, an abutment is attached. This small connector serves as the link between the implant and the crown.

3. Crown: The final component is the custom-made crown, which is designed to match the colour, shape, and size of your natural teeth. This ensures a natural appearance and seamless integration with your smile.

Benefits of Dental Implants:

• Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last many years, often a lifetime, making them a long-term solution for tooth loss.

• Natural Appearance: Implants closely mimic the look and feel of natural teeth, restoring confidence in your smile.

• Preservation of Jawbone: Dental implants help stimulate the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that often occurs with missing teeth.

• Improved Functionality: Unlike dentures, implants provide stability and allow for normal chewing and speaking without the fear of slippage.

• No Impact on Adjacent Teeth: Implants do not require alteration of neighbouring teeth, unlike bridges, which can compromise surrounding healthy structures.

Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most individuals with missing teeth can be candidates for dental implants. Ideal candidates should have healthy gums, sufficient bone density in the jaw, and good overall health. However, your dentist will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the best treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

If you are considering dental implants as a solution for missing teeth, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our team will guide you through the process, answer any questions you may have, and help you achieve a beautiful, functional smile.

These strong, durable restorations not only protect your teeth but also look great while doing so!

Crowns are made from metal, ceramic, or a combination of both to form a ‘cap’ that fits over the remaining tooth structure, providing a robust and aesthetically pleasing restoration. They are typically reserved for teeth that are severely damaged or have undergone root canal treatment; however, they can also support a bridge or be used purely for cosmetic purposes.

When Do You Require a Crown?

• If your tooth is worn down or chipped

• Following root canal treatment

• If the remaining tooth structure is largely composed of filling material

• To help prevent a cracked tooth from worsening

• To enhance the shape or colour of a tooth

• To support a dental bridge

Crowns can withstand normal biting forces just like natural teeth. However, they require regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure they do not deteriorate.

The First Appointment

During your first appointment, we will conduct a thorough examination and discuss the need for a crown, the type of material to use, and the vitality of the tooth. A pre-operative X-ray will be taken to assess the roots and surrounding bone, ensuring there is no existing decay or infection. The tooth and/or filling will then be prepared by removing any bulges and undercuts to create space for the crown. A mould of the prepared tooth will be taken and sent to the lab, along with a colour match. In the interim, we will construct a temporary crown for function and space management.

The Second Appointment

When you return for your second appointment, the temporary crown will be removed, and the tooth will be cleaned. The final crown will then be tried in, and once you give your approval, it will be cemented into place. Excess cement will be removed, and, just like natural teeth, maintaining oral hygiene around the crown is crucial. We will provide you with instructions to help preserve the crown and extend its lifespan.

Contact our Thornbury dental practice today to discuss porcelain crowns!

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If you've lost a tooth, or if the adult tooth never formed, a porcelain bridge may be the perfect solution to fill the gap!

A porcelain bridge functions similarly to an implant or denture, filling the void left by a missing tooth. Comprising a metal framework covered in porcelain, a dental bridge acts as one or two crowns that span the gap and fit securely over the adjacent teeth. Aesthetically pleasing and durable, a well-maintained bridge can seamlessly replace a missing tooth.

Bridges Are Ideal If:

• Both adjacent teeth have crowns or are heavily restored and require crowns.

• Due to medical reasons or insufficient bone, an implant is not a viable option.

• The number of missing teeth is two or fewer.

• You prefer a permanent restoration that can be cemented into place.

First Appointment

A thorough examination will be conducted to assess the space, the adjacent teeth, gums, bone, and your bite. During this assessment, a small dental X-ray will be taken to check for any signs of infection in the neighbouring teeth. It is crucial that the adjacent teeth show no signs of mobility or gum disease, as they need to support the bridgework. The adjacent teeth will then be meticulously prepared for crowns, ensuring proper alignment for the retention of the bridge. An impression of the prepared teeth will be sent to the lab for the design and construction of a custom bridge. Temporary crowns will be made, polished, and a shade will be selected to ensure the ceramist can create a bridge that looks as natural as possible.

Second Appointment

Two weeks later, the temporary crowns will be removed, and the bridge will be tried in. Before final cementation, the fit, colour, and bite of the bridge will be assessed, with your input taken into account. Once approved, a resin or luting cement will be applied, excess will be removed, and oral hygiene instructions will be provided to help maintain a healthy and long-lasting bridge.

Arrange an appointment at our Thornbury dentist to discuss porcelain bridges.

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Here’s your text refined for clarity and improved vocabulary:

Walies, chompers, falsies, zombies, clackers, china clippers, and flippers—whatever you call them, dentures have been around since the 7th century BC and remain relevant today, particularly for those missing multiple teeth.

Dentures are custom-made prosthetic teeth crafted from acrylic, with or without a cobalt chrome framework. They provide essential functions, assist with pronunciation, maintain space, enhance facial contour, improve aesthetics, and offer a more economical solution for replacing multiple missing teeth.

Fortunately, modern dentures are produced using advanced techniques and materials. However, if you have never worn dentures before, it may take some time to adjust. You can expect a period of discomfort, adjustments, and potential rubbing during the settling-in phase. The duration of this adjustment period varies based on factors such as prior experience, age, the architecture of the residual jawbone, and the number of teeth being replaced.

Dentures can be a suitable option for replacing missing teeth when:

• You have previously worn dentures

• Bridges or implants are not viable options

• A temporary prosthesis is needed

• There are no remaining natural teeth

How Long Does It Take to Make Dentures?

From start to finish, the process typically involves around four to five visits, usually spaced a week apart. The dentist will take impressions, perform measurements, and make registrations of your teeth and jaws in a step-by-step manner to ensure the most accurate, aesthetically pleasing, and well-fitting dentures. After each step, the lab work is sent to a specialist local denture maker.

There may be a period during which slight adjustments to the dentures are necessary. It’s important to remember that dentures are not natural teeth. Eating, speaking, and managing the dentures require time, skill, and muscle control, which can take several weeks. If the dentures cause rubbing, leading to ulcers or sore spots, it is advisable to remove them as much as possible and contact us for the earliest appointment. The day before your appointment, it is helpful to wear the dentures as much as you can to make it easier to identify any areas needing adjustment.

After the initial adjustment, follow-up visits may be required for further modifications. While one or two adjustments are common, it is not unusual to need more—or, conversely, not to need any at all.

If a denture is what you require then contact The Northside Dentist and we will put you in contact with our denture expert.

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