Smiles@Legacy

Preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dental treatments.

Treatments

White Fillings

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White Fillings: Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Why should I consider white fillings?
A: White fillings, also known as tooth-coloured fillings, have become increasingly popular as they provide a natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional silver amalgam fillings. Many individuals prefer white fillings as they blend seamlessly with the natural tooth colour, ensuring that their fillings remain inconspicuous when they smile or laugh.

Q: Can I get white fillings on the NHS?
A: The National Health Service (NHS) typically does not provide white fillings for the biting surfaces of back teeth. However, this restriction does not apply to the sides of back teeth or any front teeth. In rare cases, if a patient is proven to be extremely sensitive to the metals in silver amalgam fillings, a consultant may recommend replacing them with an alternative material, potentially making white fillings available through the NHS.

Q: What is the cost of white fillings?
A: Since many white fillings are offered through private dental practices, costs can vary significantly depending on the dentist, size and type of filling, the complexity of the treatment, and the region. As a general reference, white fillings start at approximately £60 each. Your dentist will be able to provide a more accurate cost estimate before proceeding with the treatment.

Q: How do white fillings compare to silver amalgam fillings in terms of durability?
A: Historically, white fillings were considered less durable than silver amalgam fillings. However, advancements in dental materials have led to the development of tooth-coloured fillings with properties comparable to silver amalgam, showing promising success rates. The longevity of a white filling depends on its location within the mouth and the forces exerted on it during biting. Your dentist can advise you on the expected lifespan of your fillings. Note that fillings provided by the NHS come with a one-year guarantee.

Q: Should I replace my existing amalgam fillings with white fillings?
A: It is generally advisable to replace fillings only when your dentist determines that an old filling requires replacement. In such cases, you may request a tooth-coloured material for the new filling. Some dentists may be hesitant to use white fillings in back teeth due to concerns about their durability. Alternatives like crowns or inlays may be considered, but they may involve more tooth reduction and higher costs.

Q: What materials are used in tooth-coloured fillings?
A: Tooth-colored fillings are typically composed of glass particles, synthetic resin, and a setting agent. Your dentist can provide more information about the specific materials used in their practice.

Q: Where can I get white fillings?
A: Most dental practices offer white fillings as a standard treatment option. However, since white fillings are classified as a cosmetic treatment, they are typically only available through private payment.

Q: Are there any alternatives to fillings?
A: One alternative to traditional fillings is adhesive dentistry, which involves bonding the filling material to the tooth and requires less tooth reduction. Other alternatives include crowns, inlays, and veneers, although these options may be more expensive.

Our treatments include…

Smiles@Legacy

Our experienced team is passionate about providing a welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable and confident in the quality of treatment you receive.

Contact Smiles at Legacy…

Root Canal Treatment

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Root Canal Treatment: Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is root canal treatment?
A: Root canal treatment, or endodontics, is a dental procedure required when the tooth’s pulp, which includes the blood and nerve supply, becomes infected due to decay or injury.

Q: Why is root canal treatment necessary?
A: If the pulp becomes infected, the infection may propagate through the tooth’s root canal system, potentially resulting in an abscess. The infection can spread if root canal treatment is not performed, necessitating tooth removal.

Q: Is root canal treatment painful?
A: The procedure is not painful, as a local anaesthetic is administered. The experience should be similar to receiving a standard dental filling.

Q: What does the procedure entail?
A: The goal of root canal treatment is to eliminate all infections from the root canal. The treatment is intricate and time-consuming, often requiring multiple visits to the dentist. The initial appointment involves the removal of infected pulp and the cleaning and shaping of the root canal, followed by the placement of a temporary filling. The tooth is then checked at a subsequent visit, and if the infection has cleared, a permanent filling is applied. The root is subsequently cleaned and filled to prevent further infection.

Q: How will my tooth appear after treatment?
A: In the past, teeth that underwent root canal treatment frequently darkened. However, modern techniques have primarily mitigated this issue. If discolouration occurs, various treatments are available to restore the tooth’s natural appearance.

Q: Is root canal treatment costly?
A: Root canal treatment is available through the National Health Service, but due to the complexity and duration of the procedure, many dentists prefer to perform it privately. Your dentist can provide a cost estimate.

Q: What are the consequences of not undergoing the treatment?
A: The alternative to root canal treatment is tooth extraction. Although some individuals may prefer extraction, retaining as many natural teeth as possible is generally recommended. Since the pulp cannot heal once destroyed, leaving an infected tooth in the mouth is inadvisable.

Q: Will the tooth be secure after treatment?
A: Yes, but restoring the tooth with a crown is advisable to provide additional support and strength.

Q: Where can I receive root canal treatment?
A: Root canal treatment is a standard dental procedure that your dentist can perform.

Q: What should I know about aftercare?
A: Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment should be cared for like any other tooth. Clean your teeth at least once a day with fluoride toothpaste, reduce sugary snacks, and schedule regular dental check-ups.

Our treatments include…

Smiles@Legacy

Our experienced team is passionate about providing a welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable and confident in the quality of treatment you receive.

Contact Smiles at Legacy…

Crowns

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Crowns: Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is a dental crown?
A: Dental crowns serve as an optimal solution for reconstructing teeth that have been broken or weakened due to decay or an extensive filling. A crown fits securely over the remaining tooth structure, enhancing its strength and restoring the tooth’s natural shape and contour. Crowns are occasionally referred to as “caps,” with an “anterior crown” specifically denoting a crown applied to the front eight teeth.

Q: What are the reasons for needing a crown?
A: Several factors might necessitate a dental crown, including:

  • A large filling that weakens the tooth 
  • Discoloured fillings, which can be replaced to improve the tooth’s appearance
  • A root filling requiring a crown for protection 
  • Tooth damage from an accident 
  • Securing a bridge or denture firmly in place

Q: What materials are crowns made of?
A: Dental crowns can be composed of various materials, with new options continuously emerging. Currently, the following materials are commonly used:

  • Porcelain bonded to precious metal: A prevalent choice, this type of crown consists of a precious metal base with layers of porcelain applied over it.
  • Porcelain: While not as strong as bonded crowns, porcelain crowns can appear very natural and are often used for front teeth.
  • Porcelain and composite: A combination of porcelain and composite resin materials can yield highly natural-looking crowns, albeit not as strong as bonded metal crowns.
  • Glass: Glass crowns exhibit a natural appearance and can be used for both front and back teeth.
  • Precious metal (gold and palladium): These crowns boast exceptional strength and durability, though they are typically not employed for highly visible front teeth.

Q: How is a tooth prepared for a crown?
A: To prepare a tooth for a crown, the dentist will remove most of the tooth’s outer surface while retaining a robust inner core. The tooth material removed will be equivalent to the thickness of the crown to be fitted. After shaping the tooth, the dentist will take impressions of the prepared tooth, the opposite jaw, and potentially another to capture the patient’s bite. These impressions, along with any other necessary information, will be provided to the dental technician for crown fabrication.

Q: Who is responsible for creating the crown?
A: A skilled dental technician will receive the impressions and information about the tooth shade to craft the crown. They will construct models of the patient’s mouth to ensure a perfect fit for the crown.

Q: Will the crown be noticeable?
A: No, the crown will be custom-made to blend seamlessly with the patient’s other teeth. The color of adjacent teeth will be recorded to ensure a natural appearance. A temporary, typically plastic, crown will be fitted during the first appointment and replaced with the permanent crown in approximately two weeks.

Q: What is the duration of the treatment process?
A: At least two visits are required: one for tooth preparation, impression-taking, shade determination, and temporary crown placement, and another for the permanent crown fitting.

Q: Is the tooth preparation process for a crown painful?
A: No, the dentist will use a local anesthetic, and the procedure should feel similar to receiving a filling. For teeth without nerves that require a post crown, local anesthesia may not be necessary.

Q: How do post crowns differ?
A: Post crowns are employed when a tooth has undergone root canal treatment. The weakened tooth crown is drilled down to the gum level, and a dual-ended post is created to fit into the root canal. This post, made of prefabricated stainless steel or custom gold, is cemented into the root canal, with one end supporting the crown.

Q: Are there alternatives to post crowns for root-filled teeth?
A: If a root-filled tooth remains largely intact, it may be possible to rebuild it using filling material. This “core” is then prepared similarly to a natural tooth, and impressions are taken for crown fabrication.

Q: How long can a crown last?
A: The lifespan of a crown depends on proper maintenance. While the crown itself cannot decay, decay can develop where the crown edge meets the tooth. It is crucial to keep this area as clean as the other teeth to prevent decay from compromising the crown. With appropriate care, crowns can last for many years, but your dentist will be able to provide a more specific estimate.

Q: How are crowns attached to teeth?
A: Once the fit and appearance of the crown are verified and approved by the patient, it will be cemented in place using specialized dental cement. This cement also forms a seal to help secure the crown.

Q: Will the crown feel different?
A: Initially, the crown may feel somewhat different due to its slightly altered shape compared to the pre-crowned tooth. However, this sensation should subside within a few days. If the crown feels too high or causes any discomfort, the dentist can make adjustments.

Q: Are there alternatives to a dental crown?
A: A veneer may be a suitable alternative to an anterior crown. Your dentist will advise you on any appropriate alternatives based on your specific situation.

Our treatments include…

Smiles@Legacy

Our experienced team is passionate about providing a welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable and confident in the quality of treatment you receive.

Contact Smiles at Legacy…

Post Crowns

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Post Crowns: Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. What is a dental crown?
A. Dental crowns serve as an effective solution for restoring teeth that have been broken or weakened by decay or extensive fillings. Crowns reinforce the tooth while mimicking a healthy tooth’s natural shape and contour. Crowns are also known as “caps.”

Q. What distinguishes post crowns?
A. Post crowns are employed when a tooth has undergone root canal treatment. The compromised tooth crown is removed to the gum line, and the dentist creates a dual-ended “post” to fit within the root canal. One end of the post is cemented into the root canal, while the other end securely holds the crown in place. This post can be either prefabricated stainless steel or custom.

Q. Are there alternatives to post crowns for root-filled teeth?
A. If a root-filled tooth retains sufficient structure, it may be possible to reconstruct it using filling material. This “core” is then prepared similarly to a natural tooth.

Q. Why might I require a crown?
A. Various reasons warrant the use of a crown, such as:

  • Tooth weakened by an extensive filling
  • Improving the appearance of a tooth with discoloured fillings
  • Protecting a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment
  • Repairing a tooth damaged in an accident
  • Securing a bridge or denture in place

Q. What materials are used to create crowns?
A. Crowns are fabricated from various materials, continually introducing new options. Current options include:

  • Porcelain bonded to precious metal: A popular choice, this type of crown features a precious metal base covered in layers of porcelain.
  • Porcelain: Although not as robust as bonded crowns, porcelain crowns exhibit a natural appearance and are commonly used for front teeth.
  • Porcelain and composite: Combining porcelain and composite resin materials can create highly natural-looking crowns, albeit not as durable as metal-bonded crowns.
  • Glass: Suitable for both front and back teeth, glass crowns offer a highly natural appearance.
  • Precious metal (gold and palladium): Strong and durable, these crowns are typically used for less visible teeth in the back of the mouth.

Q. How is a tooth prepared for a crown?
A. The dentist will reshape the tooth to accommodate the crown, removing most of the exterior surface while preserving a sturdy inner “core.” The amount of the tooth removed corresponds to the thickness of the crown. After shaping the tooth, the dentist takes impressions of the prepared tooth, the opposing jaw, and potentially another to record the patient’s bite. The technician receives the impressions and other pertinent information to construct the crown.

Q. Who fabricates the crown?
A. Dental technicians skilled in crown production receive the impressions and teeth shade information to create a customized crown. They construct models of the patient’s mouth to ensure the crown fits perfectly.

Q. Will the crown be noticeable?
A. No, the crown is designed to blend seamlessly with neighbouring teeth. A temporary plastic crown is placed during the initial appointment, lasting until the permanent crown is ready. While the temporary crown may be more noticeable, it typically remains in place for only two weeks.
The dentist records the shade of adjacent teeth to ensure the crown’s colour appears natural.

Q. What is the duration of the treatment?
A. The procedure requires at least two appointments: the initial visit for tooth preparation, impression taking, shade recording, and temporary crown placement, followed by a second appointment to fit the permanent crown.

Q. Is preparing a tooth for a crown painful?
A. Local anaesthesia ensures a comfortable experience during tooth preparation, like receiving a filling. Local anaesthesia may be unnecessary if the tooth lacks a nerve.

Q. How long will a crown last?
A. The longevity of a crown depends on proper care and maintenance. While the crown itself cannot decay, decay can develop at the junction of the crown and tooth. Maintaining cleanliness in this area is crucial to prevent decay that could compromise the crown. With appropriate care, crowns can last many years; your dentist can provide a specific time frame.

Q. How are crowns affixed to teeth?
A. Once the fit and appearance of the crown have been verified and approved by the patient, it is cemented in place using specialized dental cement. This cement also forms a seal that helps secure the crown firmly.

Q. Will the crown feel different?
A. Initially, the crown may feel slightly different due to its shape being somewhat different from the original tooth. However, it should feel comfortable within a few days and become unnoticeable. Ask your dentist to examine and adjust if the crown feels higher than the surrounding teeth or causes discomfort.

Our treatments include…

Smiles@Legacy

Our experienced team is passionate about providing a welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable and confident in the quality of treatment you receive.

Contact Smiles at Legacy…

Bridges

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Bridges: Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. Why is it essential to replace missing teeth?
A. Replacing missing teeth is crucial for several reasons, including maintaining an attractive appearance and preventing strain on adjacent teeth. Gaps created by missing teeth can disrupt your bite as neighbouring teeth lean into the space, altering the alignment of upper and lower teeth. This misalignment can lead to food packing in the gap, resulting in tooth decay and gum disease.

Q. What are the methods for replacing missing teeth?
A. The appropriate method for replacing missing teeth depends on the number and location of the absent teeth and the condition of the remaining teeth. Two primary ways to address missing teeth include removable partial dentures and fixed bridges. Bridges are typically employed when fewer teeth need replacement or when the missing teeth are on one side of the mouth.

Q. Is a dental bridge always an option for replacing missing teeth?
A. A dental bridge can be viable if you have strong teeth with adequate bone support. Your dentist will assist you in determining the most suitable and cost-effective method for replacing your missing teeth.

Q. What materials are dental bridges made from?
A. Dental bridges typically feature a precious metal base, with porcelain bonded to the bottom of the bridge will be visible. Non-precious metals offer an alternative to reduce costs,

Q. Are dental bridges costly?
A. Dental bridges may seem expensive initially, but they improve appearance and bite. Creating a bridge requires the expertise of a dentist and technician, making it comparable to commissioning a piece of custom-made jewellery. The materials used also contribute to the cost, so it is reasonable to expect a dental bridge to be a more expensive treatment option.

Q. How should I care for my dental bridge?
A. Daily cleaning of your dental bridge is essential to prevent issues such as bad breath and gum disease. It is also necessary to clean beneath the false tooth daily. Your dentist or dental hygienist will demonstrate how to use a bridge needle or specialised floss, as more than a standard toothbrush is required.

Q. Are there alternative methods for attaching false teeth?
A. As your dentist recommends, other options include a combination of crowns and partial dentures that conceal retaining clips or specialised dentures. Dental implants are another alternative; consult your dentist for more information. Caring for your remaining teeth while addressing the missing ones is equally important.

Q. Do different types of dental bridges exist?
A. Various types of dental bridges employ distinct fixing methods. Your dentist will select the most effective and conservative bridge option tailored to your needs.

Our treatments include…

Smiles@Legacy

Our experienced team is passionate about providing a welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable and confident in the quality of treatment you receive.

Contact Smiles at Legacy…

Adhesive Bridge

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Adhesive Bridges: Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. Why is it important to replace missing teeth?
A. Replacing missing teeth is essential for several reasons. First, it helps maintain an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Second, a gap left by a missing tooth can strain the adjacent teeth excessively. Additionally, gaps can affect your bite, as the teeth next to the space may lean into it, altering how your upper and lower teeth come together. This can lead to food accumulation in the gaps, resulting in tooth decay and gum disease
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Q. What is an adhesive dental bridge?
A. An adhesive dental bridge is a dental prosthesis of a false tooth connected to a titanium wing. The wing is glued onto the adjacent tooth to hold the false tooth in place.

Q. What benefits do adhesive bridges offer compared to traditional crown-retained bridges?
A. Adhesive bridges require minimal preparation of the adjacent tooth, making it a healthier option for the supporting tooth than removing significant amounts of enamel and dentine for a retaining crown. Additionally, adhesive bridges are generally more affordable than crown-retained bridges.

Q. What are the drawbacks of adhesive bridges?
A. Adhesive bridges have limitations: they can only be attached to unfilled teeth or with minimal fillings. They are unsuitable for situations where many teeth need to be replaced. Furthermore, adhesive bridges have a shorter lifespan than crown-retained bridges.

Q. How long can I expect the bridge to last?
A. On average, an adhesive bridge will last approximately eight years, possibly requiring re-cementing at least once.

Q. Will the bridge feel natural?
A. Initially, the retaining wing may feel somewhat elevated, but after a week or two, your teeth will adjust slightly, and your bite should feel normal again.

Q. What is the cost of an adhesive bridge?
A. The cost of an adhesive bridge depends on the number of teeth involved. Consult your dentist to discuss available options and pricing.

Our treatments include…

Smiles@Legacy

Our experienced team is passionate about providing a welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable and confident in the quality of treatment you receive.

Contact Smiles at Legacy…