FAQs
Tooth-Coloured Fillings
What are tooth-coloured fillings?
Tooth-coloured fillings are made from a composite material that blends naturally with your teeth. They are commonly used to repair teeth affected by decay, cracks or minor damage.
How long do tooth-coloured fillings last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, tooth-coloured fillings can last for many years. Their lifespan depends on factors such as the size and location of the filling and your oral habits.
Are tooth-coloured fillings noticeable?
They are designed to closely match your natural tooth colour, making them a discreet option.
Root Canal Treatment
What is a root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth, cleans and disinfects the area, and seals the tooth to help preserve it.
Why might I need a root canal?
A root canal may be recommended when the nerve or pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, cracks, trauma or other damage.
Is root canal treatment painful?
The procedure is performed using local anaesthetic to keep you comfortable. Some tenderness may occur after treatment and can usually be managed with appropriate aftercare.
Wisdom Teeth Extractions
Why do wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Wisdom teeth may need removal if they are impacted, causing pain, infection, decay, gum problems or damage to nearby teeth.
Is wisdom tooth removal painful?
Local anaesthetic is used during the procedure. Some swelling, discomfort or tenderness can be expected during recovery.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies depending on the complexity of the extraction. Your dentist will provide specific aftercare instructions.
Crowns & Bridges
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that covers and protects a damaged or weakened tooth while restoring its shape and function.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by using supporting teeth or dental implants to hold the replacement tooth or teeth in place.
How long do crowns and bridges last?
With good oral hygiene, regular dental visits and appropriate care, crowns and bridges can provide long-term service. Their lifespan varies between patients.
Dental Veneers
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made coverings placed over the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance.
What can veneers improve?
Depending on your individual situation, veneers may help improve the appearance of teeth with discolouration, minor chips, uneven shapes or spacing.
Are veneers suitable for everyone?
Veneers are not suitable for every patient. Your dentist will assess your teeth, gums, bite and smile goals before recommending treatment.
Complete & Partial Dentures
What are complete dentures?
Complete dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace all the teeth in an upper or lower arch.
What are partial dentures?
Partial dentures replace some missing teeth while fitting around your remaining natural teeth.
Will dentures feel comfortable?
It can take some time to adjust to wearing new dentures. Your dentist can make adjustments to improve fit and comfort when required.
How do I care for my dentures?
Your dentures should be cleaned regularly and handled carefully. Your dental team can provide personalised advice on cleaning and storage.
Clear Aligners
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are a series of custom-made, removable trays designed to gradually move your teeth into a more ideal position.
Are clear aligners noticeable?
Clear aligners are designed to be discreet and are generally less noticeable than traditional braces.
How long does clear aligner treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on your teeth, bite and treatment goals. Your dentist can provide an estimated timeframe after an assessment.
Can I eat while wearing clear aligners?
Aligners are generally removed for eating and drinking anything other than water. Follow your dentist’s specific instructions.
Dental Implants
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium fixture placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth, such as a crown, bridge or denture.
Who can have dental implants?
Suitability depends on factors such as your oral health, jawbone condition, general health and individual treatment needs. An assessment is required to determine whether implants are appropriate.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can provide a long-term tooth replacement solution when properly maintained. Regular dental care and good oral hygiene are important for their longevity.
Implant-Supported Dentures
What are implant-supported dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are dentures secured to dental implants, providing additional stability compared with conventional removable dentures.
Are implant-supported dentures removable?
Depending on the design, implant-supported dentures may be removable or fixed. Your dentist will discuss which option is appropriate for you.
Why choose implant-supported dentures?
They can provide improved stability and confidence when eating and speaking compared with traditional dentures for suitable patients.
Teeth Whitening
How does professional teeth whitening work?
Professional teeth whitening uses a dental whitening system designed to lighten the colour of your natural teeth and reduce certain types of staining.
Is teeth whitening safe?
When provided and supervised by a dental professional, teeth whitening is generally considered safe. Temporary sensitivity can occur in some patients.
How long do whitening results last?
Results vary between individuals and can be affected by diet, lifestyle and oral hygiene. Touch-up treatments may help maintain your desired shade.
Can whitening remove all stains?
Whitening may not improve every type of discolouration. Your dentist can assess the cause of staining and recommend the most suitable option.
