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In this article we'll explore the ins and outs of gum recession, its causes, and the treatments available. So, buckle up, and let's dive into the world of gum recession!
Gum recession is the gradual process of gum tissue loss leading to root exposure. It's not only an aesthetic issue, but it can also lead to tooth sensitivity, decay, and even tooth loss. The earlier you detect and address gum recession, the better your chances of saving your precious pearly whites.
Gum recession can result from a wide range of factors, including:
Treatment options include:
Click here to understand the costs of gum disease treatment
Now that you've learned all about gum recession, its causes, and treatments, it's time to take action. Fill in the form below to book an appointment with our friendly and experienced dental team, who will help you put the brakes on gum recession. Remember, a healthy smile is a happy smile, so don't let your gums slip away like a greased pig at the fair!
As an experienced periodontist, I've encountered countless gum disease cases. I've witnessed situations that make you shudder, wondering, "How did it reach this point?" But worry not, dear reader! We'll delve into the depths of gum disease and the treatments that can banish it for good. By the end of this article, you'll be well-equipped to conquer gum disease.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding your teeth. Primarily caused by plaque build-up— the sticky, yellowish substance teeming with bacteria— gum disease comes in two forms: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis, the milder variant, entails gum inflammation. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, leading to gum and bone tissue destruction. Scary, isn't it?
Gum disease can be elusive, but the unmistakable signs should never be overlooked are:
Now that we've identified gum disease, let's discuss treatments that can eradicate it. We'll examine four primary strategies for tackling gum disease in detail.
Scaling and root planing are crucial, non-surgical procedures that address the root cause of gum disease— plaque and tartar accumulation. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and beneath the gum line, while root planing smooths root surfaces, preventing bacterial growth. It's like treating your teeth to a much-deserved massage therapy session at the spa the the dental hygienist acting as the massage therapist.
At times, gum disease necessitates reinforcements in the form of antibiotics. These can be applied directly to the affected area or taken orally, targeting the bacteria responsible for inflammation. They work in tandem with scaling and root planing, ensuring those pesky microbes don't stand a chance.
If gum disease has resulted in significant tissue loss, scaling and root planing cannot clean deep enough and you need gum surgery. Click here to read about this highly effective treatment for periodontitis.
Laser therapy is a newer treatment option that employs light energy to eliminate bacteria and diseased tissue. Minimally invasive, laser therapy promotes faster healing and causes less discomfort than traditional surgical methods. It's like something straight out of a sci-fi film, but for your gums. The jury is still out on their efficacy.
I recall a patient, Priyal, who sought treatment for severe gum disease. Fearing the loss of her teeth, she was determined to do whatever it took to save them. After combining scaling, root planing, and one session of gum surgery, Priyal's gums made an astonishing recovery. She now proudly displays a healthy, stunning smile. Her success story serves as proof of the effectiveness of modern gum disease treatments, offering hope to those facing similar challenges. Watch her story here.
There you have it— your comprehensive guide to gum disease and its treatments. Why let gum disease compromise your smile when you have a wealth of powerful tools at your disposal? Remember, knowledge is power. Equip yourself with the information in this article and defeat gum disease once and for all!
Ready to embark on the journey towards healthier gums? Don't hesitate any longer! Fill out the form below, and let us help you transform your smile into a gum disease-free work of art.
You can thank us later when you're sporting that vibrant, healthy smile.
Implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. Aesthetically, they look remarkably like natural teeth, and, in terms of functionality, they let you chew, speak, and smile with ease. No more awkward social interactions or dietary limitations, hooray!
But that's just the tip of the iceberg, folks. Dental implants stimulate bone growth, helping preserve your jawbone, and they're incredibly durable, lasting up to 20 years or more if properly maintained.
As a dentist, I've seen it all. But let me share Laura’s story with you. She fell as a child and was told that she would need dental implants someday. She then spent 20 years worrying about how the dental implant will possibly replace what nature put there.
Dental implants consist of three key components: the titanium implant that fuses with your jawbone, the abutment that connects to the implant, and the crown, which is the visible part of the tooth. Together, these elements create a natural-looking and fully functional tooth that seamlessly integrates into your oral landscape.
The process itself typically involves three stages: the initial implant placement, a healing period, and the final crown placement. Don't worry, though – the procedure is relatively painless, thanks to modern dental anaesthesia.
While implants are more costly than dentures or bridges, the long-term benefits make them well worth the investment. Remember, dental implants are built to last and can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for future dental treatments.
Implants offer a plethora of advantages that will undoubtedly change your life for the better. They're a sturdy, natural-looking solution to missing teeth that can boost your self-esteem and improve your overall quality of life.
So, are you ready to bid farewell to worrying about what you can eat and embrace the life-changing magic of dental implants? Go on, treat yourself to a smile that truly sparkles! Fill out the form below, and let's get this dental implant party started.
Composite bonding is a minimally invasive dental procedure that utilises tooth-coloured resin to address a wide array of dental concerns. From chipped teeth and discolouration to gaps and uneven alignment, composite bonding is the ultimate dental multitool.
Think of it like this: a skilled sculptor meticulously crafting a masterpiece from clay. Now, replace the artist with your trusted dentist and the clay with composite resin. And there you have it – composite bonding in a nutshell.
Here's a handy diagram to visualise the process:
Composite bonding has numerous advantages over the alternatives including:
A Personal Anecdote: From a Dentist to a Potential Patient
Annie Cosgrove had a severely malformed upper lateral incisor (front tooth) and gaps between her front teeth. She couldn't contain her joy and her smile beamed from ear to ear. Moments like these remind me of the profound impact dentistry can have on someone's life!
Ready to transform your smile with the magic of composite bonding? Complete the form below with anticipation and enthusiasm, and together, let's begin this incredible journey towards your picture-perfect smile!
Both root canal treatment and dental implants can be effective solutions for treating dental infections but it's important to understand their differences and which one is best suited for your specific needs.
Root canal treatments are commonly used to treat a tooth that has become infected or decayed. During the procedure, the infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth is removed and replaced with a filling material. This helps to save the tooth and prevent further damage or infection. (See our articles on risks/benefits of root canal treatments as well as costs).
One of the main advantages of root canal treatments is that they can save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. They are also less invasive than dental implant procedures, require less recovery time, and can be less expensive.
However, root canal treatments are not always effective in saving the tooth but in the hands of a root canal specialist (endodontist), you should get a 90% success rate if there is an adequate amount of tooth above the gum and if there are no significant cracks of the tooth roots. In addition, a tooth that has undergone a root canal treatment may become more fragile over time and may require a crown afterwards to keep it strong. We also have an incredibly rare warranty on our root canals.
Endosseous implants are a fixed replacement for a tooth extracted due to an infection. During the procedure, a titanium post is implanted into the jawbone to act as the root of the tooth. A crown is then attached to the post, creating a natural-looking replacement tooth. See our articles on costs of dental implants and well as benefits/risks).
One of the main advantages of tooth implants is that they are a long-lasting solution that can look and feel like a natural tooth. They can also improve speech and make it easier to eat and chew. Additionally, dental implants can help to prevent bone loss in the jaw and maintain the structural integrity of the surrounding teeth.
However, dental implant procedures are more invasive and require a longer recovery time than root canal treatments. They can also be more expensive and may not be covered by insurance.
When deciding between root canal treatments and dental implants, it's important to consider your individual needs and the specific dental issue you are dealing with. If you have a tooth that can be saved, a root canal treatment may be the best option.
Over the years, I have seen many patients who have struggled with the decision between root canal treatments and dental implants. Two particular patients come to mind and I created two video blogs. They both had exactly the same problem but one choose the root canal treatment and the other chose the dental implant. Please watch both videos to get more information about all the various considerations.
In conclusion, both root canal treatments and dental implants can be effective solutions for different dental issues. It's important to understand their differences and which one is best suited for your specific needs.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health problem that affects many people worldwide. It is caused by the build-up of plaque on the teeth, which leads to inflammation and infection of the gums. If left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss, bone damage, and other health problems.
Fortunately, there are two main types of treatments for gum disease: non-surgical and surgical. In this article, I will compare these two treatments and help you decide which one is right for you. The aim of any treatment for gum disease is to reduce gum pocket depths to 4mm or less.
Non-surgical treatments for gum disease are typically the first line of defence against the condition. These treatments are often effective for treating early stages of gum disease, such as gingivitis and mild/moderate periodontitis. (See our articles on treatment costs and risks/benefits of gum disease treatments). Here are some common non-surgical treatments for gum disease:
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. It is typically done using a combination of hand instruments and ultrasonic devices. Scaling and root planing can be uncomfortable, but it is generally considered a very effective treatment for gum disease. Local anaesthetics are highly effective in dealing with any discomfort
Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat bacterial infections that are causing gum disease. In some instances, antibiotics in combination of deep cleaning above is very effective at achieving the aim of treatment. Typically, we prescribe either a combination of amoxicillin and metronidazole (for 1 week) OR azithromycin (for 3 days). If antibiotics are to used, the deep cleaning of the whole mouth must be completed within 1 week.
The use of various types of lasers have also been advocated for the management of periodontitis. The rationale for their use lies in the difficulty of fully removing all the bacteria from the infected roots. Typically, like antibiotics, they are used after deep cleaning to improve gum reattachment and therefore gum pocket depth reduction.
Making changes to your lifestyle is crucial in treating gum disease. This includes quitting smoking, the use of interdental brushes, electric toothbrushes and improving your diet. These changes can help reduce inflammation in the mouth and promote healing.
Here are some common surgical treatments for gum disease:
Flap surgery is a procedure that involves lifting the gums to remove tartar and bacteria from the roots of the teeth. The gums are then repositioned to fit snugly around the teeth. Flap surgery can be effective in treating moderate to severe gum disease.
Bone grafts may be required if gum disease has caused significant bone loss around the teeth. This procedure involves taking bone from another part of the body, such as the hip, and transplanting it into the jawbone. This can help regenerate bone and support the teeth.
Guided tissue regeneration is a procedure that involves placing a small piece of mesh-like material between the gum tissue and bone. This material helps to stimulate the growth of new bone and gum tissue.
Deciding which treatment is right for you depends on the severity of your gum disease. If you have mild to moderate gum disease, non-surgical treatments may be effective. However, if you have severe gum disease, surgical treatments may be required. Your dentist will be able to assess the severity of your condition and recommend the best treatment for you.
Periodontal maintenance by an experienced dental hygienist or dental therapist every 3 months is much more important than the type of treatment. Irrespective of the treatment type, it is really important that you see a clinician who uses tried and tested techniques whose results have lasted over 20- 30 years.
As a dentist, I have seen many patients benefit from both non-surgical and surgical treatments for gum disease. In my experience, the key to success is early detection and prompt treatment. So, if you're experiencing symptoms of gum disease, don't delay – make an appointment with your dentist today. Remember, good oral health is essential for your overall health and well-being.
Be sure to complete the form below and let us look after your gums.
In this article, I'll provide a comprehensive comparison between fibre posts and gold posts, and help you make an informed decision.
Before we dive into the comparison, let's first understand what fibre posts and gold posts are.
Fibre posts are made of composite materials and are designed to mimic the natural structure of the tooth. They are strong, flexible, and can bond directly to the tooth structure, providing excellent support to the restoration. Fibre posts tend to come prefabricated.
Gold posts are made of pure gold or a gold alloy, and are highly biocompatible with the tooth structure. They have been used in dentistry for decades and have a proven track record of success. They are strong, inflexible (making them useful when a tooth is very badly broken) and can bond directly to the tooth structure. Gold posts are typically custom-made to fit the individual tooth.
When it comes to strength and durability, both fibre posts and gold posts have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Fibre posts are highly resistant to corrosion, which means they won't degrade over time. They have the same flexibility as dentine and therefore provide excellent bond strength to the tooth structure, which significantly reduces the risk of root fracture. However, fibre posts are more prone to fracture under some extreme forces the bond to the tooth fails and the root the tooth falls out. In these situations, it is possible to try another fibre post OR a gold post.
Gold posts are highly resistant to corrosion and can last for decades if properly maintained. They have excellent mechanical properties, which means they can withstand heavy biting forces without fracturing. However, they are relatively expensive compared to fibre posts and require more time and skill to place. However, if the forces become extreme (which patients cannot control), the root of the tooth fractures before the gold post falls out and the root cannot be fixed.
In terms of aesthetics, fibre posts and gold posts have their own pros and cons.
Fibre posts are tooth-coloured and can blend in seamlessly with the natural tooth structure. This makes them an ideal choice for restorations that are located in the front of the mouth, where aesthetics is a major concern.
Gold posts are not tooth-coloured and can be visible when the restoration is placed in the front of the mouth. However, covering gold posts (to make them invisible) is much easier because of they yellow colour compared with a nickel-chromium post (which looks black).
Cost is a major factor to consider when choosing between fibre posts and gold posts.
Fibre posts are less expensive than gold posts and are widely available, making them a cost-effective option for many patients.
Gold posts are relatively expensive due to the high cost of gold and the extra time and skill required to place them. However, they can last for decades if properly maintained, which can make them a cost-effective option in the long run.
Both fibre posts and gold posts require a similar placement procedure.
Fibre posts can be placed using an adhesive technique, which involves bonding the post directly to the tooth structure. This is a relatively simple procedure and can be completed in one visit.
Gold posts require more time and skill to place, as they need to be custom-made to fit the individual tooth. They are typically placed using a cementation technique, which involves cementing the post into the tooth structure. This procedure can take two or three visits to complete, depending on the complexity of the restoration.
Over the years, I have come across many situations where a post is required (usually for front teeth). If a tooth is so broken and it needs a gold post (instead of a fibre post), it is really important to weigh up the pros and cons of the root canal treatment + post required compared with a dental implant and find out if your dentist provides any warrantees (see ours).
When it comes to choosing between fibre posts and gold posts for your dental restoration, there is no clear-cut answer. Both types of posts have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the decision ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you have any questions/comments OR want to be kept informed of future blogs, please complete the form below and one of the team will be in touch with you by the next working day.
If you've experienced tooth loss, the three most common options are resin-bonded bridges, conventional bridges, and dental implants. In this article, we will explore each option in detail and help you determine which one is the best fit for your dental needs.
Resin-retained bridges, also known as Maryland bridges, are a great option for replacing missing front teeth. They consist of a false tooth, or pontic, that is fused to metal or porcelain wings. These wings are then bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth, providing support for the pontic.
Resin-bonded bridges are a minimally invasive option, as they require little to no alteration of the surrounding teeth. They are also more affordable than other options and can be completed in just a few visits. However, resin-bonded bridges have some limitations. They are not suitable for replacing molars or teeth that bear significant chewing force. They also have a shorter lifespan than other options, typically lasting between five to ten years. Making them appear totally natural can be really difficult in the front of the mouth. This is because of the gum recession that always occurs when a tooth is removed.
Conventional bridges are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. They consist of a pontic that is anchored to adjacent teeth with dental crowns. These crowns are cemented in place, providing support for the pontic.
Conventional bridges are an excellent option for replacing molars or teeth that bear significant chewing force. They also have a longer lifespan than resin-bonded bridges, typically lasting between ten to fifteen years.
However, conventional bridges require significant drilling to the surrounding teeth and this option is therefore more invasive than the Maryland bridges above. They also tend to be more expensive than resin-bonded bridges and can take longer to complete but making them look natural is much easier than the resin-bonded bridges.
Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth, especially if you are missing a single tooth or multiple teeth. They consist of a titanium implant that is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone over time. An abutment is then attached to the implant, which serves as a connector for the replacement tooth. The fact that they are strong and do not require any drilling to the surrounding teeth makes them the least destructive and strong of all 3 options.
Dental implants are the most durable and long-lasting option, with a lifespan of 10-20 years (assuming you see your hygienist every 3 months). They also provide the most natural look and feel, as they closely mimic the structure and function of natural teeth.
Because of the aforementioned advantages (strength, excellent appearance and natural feel) dental implants are the most extensive of the 3 options (see our article on dental implant costs). They also tend to be the most expensive option, particularly if multiple implants are needed.
The best option for you will depend on various factors, such as the location of the missing teeth, your budget, and your overall dental health.
If you are missing incisors and want a less invasive and more affordable option, resin-bonded bridges may be the best choice but you might compromise on appearance. If you are missing molars or teeth that bear significant chewing force, conventional bridges may be the better option. If you want the most durable and natural-looking option, dental implants may be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the best way to determine which option is right for you is to consult with a specialist dentist. They will be able to assess your dental needs and provide personalised recommendations.
We understand that choosing the right option for replacing missing teeth can be a difficult decision, and we are here to help. Our team will take the time to answer any questions you may have, and provide detailed information about each option so that you can make an informed decision. Please complete this short form and one of us will be in contact by the next working day.
In this article, I will compare porcelain crowns and porcelain veneers, and help you decide which one is right for you.
Porcelain crowns, also known as dental caps, are dental prosthetics that are designed to cover the entire tooth. They are usually recommended for patients with teeth that have been damaged by decay, injury, or other factors. Porcelain crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are discoloured, misshapen, or have large fillings.
Porcelain crowns are custom-made to fit your tooth and mimic the look of your natural teeth. They are durable and can last for many years with proper care. Porcelain crowns are also stain-resistant and easy to maintain, making them a great option for people who want a long-term solution for their dental problems. However, there is about a 10-20% chance that you will need a root canal treatment afterwards.
Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They are a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are discoloured, misshapen, or have small gaps. Porcelain veneers are often recommended for patients who want a quick and easy solution to their dental problems.
Porcelain veneers are designed to look like natural teeth and are bonded to the front of your teeth. They are durable and can last for many years with proper care. Porcelain veneers are also stain-resistant and easy to maintain, making them a great option for people who want to improve their smile without undergoing extensive and destructive dental work. (See our article on every everything you need to know about porcelain veneers)
While both porcelain crowns and porcelain veneers are great for improving the appearance of your teeth, they have different applications and benefits. Here are some of the key differences between the two:
Porcelain crowns cover the entire tooth, while porcelain veneers only cover the front surface of your teeth. If you have a tooth that is severely damaged or decayed, a porcelain crown may be the best option for you. If it is not, the porcelain veneer is much better.
Porcelain crowns are more durable than porcelain veneers, and can last for many years with proper care. Porcelain veneers, on the other hand, are thinner and more delicate, and may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years. However, if the tooth has no fillings and the teeth are straightened beforehand i.e. lots of enamel present, the difference between crowns and veneers is minimised.
Porcelain crowns may be more expensive than porcelain veneers, due to the amount of material and work required to make them (see our article on cost of porcelain veneers). Porcelain veneers are a more cost-effective option for patients who want to improve the appearance of their teeth without breaking the bank.
Porcelain crowns require more preparation than porcelain veneers, as the entire tooth needs to be filed down to accommodate the crown. Porcelain veneers, on the other hand, require less preparation and can be bonded to the front of your teeth with minimal removal of the tooth structure.
Whether you should opt for porcelain crowns or porcelain veneers depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you have a severely damaged tooth, a porcelain crown may be the best option for you. If you want to improve the appearance of your teeth without undergoing extensive dental work, porcelain veneers may be a better option. One important thing to note is that both porcelain crowns and porcelain veneers require healthy teeth and gums to ensure their success. If you have underlying dental problems, such as gum disease or decay, those issues should be addressed before undergoing cosmetic procedures.
As a dentist, I always recommend that patients schedule a consultation with me before making a decision about which cosmetic dental procedure to undergo. During the consultation, we can discuss your individual needs and preferences, and I can help you determine which option is best for you.
If you have any questions for my team and I, please complete this form and one of us will be in contact on the next working day.
Gum disease affects many people, and if left untreated, it can lead to more serious issues such as tooth loss. (See our other gum disease article). Two popular treatments for gum disease are regenerative and osseous resective gum surgery. In this article, we'll compare these two types of surgery and help you determine which one may be right for you. They are required with non-surgical gum therapy does not result in shallow (4mm or less) gum pockets.
Guided tissue regeneration, aims to regenerate lost bone and tissue in the gums. This surgery involves placing a special membrane or barrier over the affected area of the gums. The membrane helps guide the growth of new bone and tissue, allowing the gums to heal and regenerate. This membrane and associated bone mineral can be either generated from cows/pigs or other human beings. It is therefore extremely important that you inform your dentist if you have any religious or cultural objections/concerns.
Regenerative gum surgery is ideal for cases where the defective bone/gum is narrow and localised. Its main advantage is that it is associated with much less gum recession than the resective surgery below.
Osseous resective gum surgery and open flap debridement are types of periodontal surgery that involve the removal of damaged gum tissue. These procedures are ideal for much more severe cases of gum disease, where the damage extends to multiple teeth. In these cases, root canal treatments can also be required (see our article on root canal treatments).
During osseous resective gum surgery, the damaged tissue is removed, allowing the healthy tissue to heal and grow back. This reduces the size of pockets that have formed between the teeth and gums, making it easier to keep the area clean and free of bacteria.
The severity of your gum disease and overall oral health are the determining factors for which type of gum surgery is right for you. Your dentist will assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Regenerative gum surgery is best for severe cases of gum disease. However, it may not be appropriate for everyone, especially those with underlying health issues. Resective gum surgery is a less invasive option that is often used to treat mild to moderate cases of gum disease, reducing the size of pockets and promoting gum health.
Regenerative and osseous resective gum surgery are viable treatment options for gum disease. To ensure your gums' health, see a us as soon as possible to discuss your treatment options. Please complete the form below.
