Bli Bli Dentist

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry encompasses dental procedures aimed at enhancing the appearance of one’s smile, surpassing the functional focus of general dentistry. This branch specifically targets aesthetic improvements such as teeth whitening to brighten discoloured teeth and dental veneers to correct issues like chips, gaps, or misshapen teeth. While general dentistry concentrates on oral health and preventive care, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving cosmetic aspects to boost confidence and overall appearance.

How are dental implants placed?

Dental implants represent a significant advancement in restorative dentistry, offering a permanent solution for missing teeth. These implants serve as artificial roots, providing a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth that are made to match natural teeth. The process of placing dental implants is a form of oral surgery that requires careful planning and execution.

Initial Consultation and Planning

The first step in the dental implant process involves a comprehensive evaluation by a dental professional. This initial consultation typically includes dental X-rays and, possibly, 3D images, along with a thorough examination of the patient’s oral and overall health. This stage is crucial for planning the implant procedure, ensuring the patient is a suitable candidate, and customising the treatment to the patient’s specific needs.

Preparatory Procedures

Some patients may require preparatory procedures before the placement of dental implants. This could include treatments like bone grafting, where insufficient bone mass makes direct implant placement unfeasible. Bone grafting is designed to provide a solid base for the implant, and this procedure requires several months of healing before the implant can be placed.

Implant Placement

The actual implant placement is the next phase. This involves oral surgery where the dental implant, a titanium screw, is inserted into the jawbone under local anaesthesia. The screw will serve as the new tooth root and is placed directly into the location of the missing tooth. Post-surgery, there is a period of healing (osseointegration) where the implant integrates with the bone – a process that can take several months.

Abutment and Prosthesis Placement

Once the implant has bonded with the jawbone, an additional procedure might be needed to place the abutment, which will hold the new tooth. After the soft tissues heal around the abutment, impressions of the teeth are taken, which are used to create the crown, bridge, or denture that will be attached to the abutment. This part of the process is crucial for ensuring the new teeth look natural and fit comfortably within the mouth.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Following the placement of the final prosthesis, proper aftercare is vital. Regular dental check-ups, along with meticulous oral hygiene, are essential to ensure the longevity and success of dental implants. Patients are advised to treat their implants just like their natural teeth, with regular brushing and flossing. Any follow-up visits recommended by the dental practitioner should be adhered to ensure the health and functionality of the implants.

What is the procedure for performing root canal treatment? 

Root canal treatment, also known as root canal therapy, is a dental service aimed at saving a tooth that has been badly damaged or infected. Given below is the detailed process involved in performing root canal treatment.

Assessment and Diagnosis

The root canal treatment process begins with a thorough assessment and diagnosis by a dental professional. This typically involves a detailed examination of the affected tooth and surrounding gums, as well as X-rays to determine the extent of the tooth damage or infection. Experienced dentists evaluate the need for root canal therapy by identifying symptoms such as pain, sensitivity, tenderness, and swelling. This initial evaluation is crucial to developing an effective treatment plan.

Preparing for the Procedure

Once root canal therapy is deemed necessary, the tooth and surrounding area are numbed using local anaesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort during the procedure. Dental technology, such as dental dams, may be used to isolate the affected tooth and keep it clean and free from saliva during treatment.

The Root Canal Procedure

The actual root canal procedure begins with the dentist making an opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. Special tools are used to clean out the decayed pulp, bacteria, and debris from the canals. This part of the process is crucial as it removes the source of infection or pain.

After thoroughly cleaning and shaping the canals, the dentist will disinfect the area with antimicrobial solutions to eliminate any remaining bacteria. Once the canals are clean and dry, they are filled with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha, to seal them. The opening in the tooth is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling to prevent contamination.

Finishing the Treatment

Following the root canal therapy, the tooth may require further restoration to ensure its full function and appearance. This may involve placing a crown on the tooth to strengthen and protect it from future damage or breakage. The choice of restoration will depend on the extent of tooth damage and the tooth’s location in the mouth.

What is considered a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation that involves uncontrolled bleeding, severe pain, or trauma to the teeth or gums that requires immediate attention. Recognising what constitutes a dental emergency can help you take prompt action and potentially save a tooth or prevent serious complications.

Common Types of Dental Emergencies

Several conditions qualify as dental emergencies. Severe toothache with unbearable pain suggests an underlying issue, such as an abscess or infection, that needs urgent care. Uncontrolled bleeding after a tooth extraction or due to injury also warrants immediate dental attention to prevent further complications.

Trauma to the teeth or mouth, such as knocked-out teeth, cracked, chipped, or fractured teeth, particularly when accompanied by sharp pain, is a clear indicator of a dental emergency. These injuries can affect the living tissue inside the teeth, leading to more severe problems if not treated promptly.

Swelling in the mouth or facial region, especially when it impedes breathing or swallowing, is another sign of a dental emergency. This could indicate an infection or abscess that requires immediate intervention to prevent the spread of infection.

When to Seek Immediate Dental Care

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it’s crucial to contact a dental professional immediately. Even injuries that seem minor can affect the living tissues inside the teeth. Early treatment is essential in preventing more serious health issues and in saving the tooth. Dental emergencies require quick and effective responses to alleviate pain, prevent infection, and ensure the best possible outcome for oral health. Our clinic offers emergency dental services to residents in Bli Bli. Dentist appointments can be swiftly arranged to address urgent needs and provide relief.