Ceramic and / or composite glass fillings may be placed to restore cavities or broken teeth. The strength and appearance of these fillings is excellent. Old grey fillings can be replaced with natural looking ceramic inlays. These are strong, durable and not toxic.

 

 

The repair of a chipped or cracked tooth may be done using a technique called bonding. A composite glass material is layered over a defect, where it is sculpted into shape, then contoured and polished resulting in a natural enamel appearance.

 

 

Unfortunately there are times when patients suffer from severe toothache. This is the result of a damaged tooth becoming inflamed and infected. To save the tooth from extraction, drainage can be done through the root of the tooth to clear up the infection. The damaged part of the tooth can then be restored with a crown.

 

 

Crowns (or caps) are an artificial covering used to restore the form and function of severely damaged or root treated teeth. They can be either made of a high aesthetic full ceramic (no-metal) or porcelain fused to a metal framework for increased strength. Bridges are a series of crowns fused together on a metal frame and may be used to replace missing / extracted teeth. In cases where aesthetics are of primary concern, full porcelain crowns are made from the latest generation ceramics which are translucent and allow for light transmission for better optical and natural properties.

 

 

For severely cracked or discoloured teeth, porcelain laminate veneers are bonded to the surface of the tooth, essentially replacing the damaged enamel and creating a highly aesthetic result. Gaps between the teeth can thus be closed and the smile line straightened considerably.

 

 

When a tooth is removed (extracted) the resulting gap may have severe consequences. The opposing tooth can over erupt (“become longer”) and the adjacent teeth will tilt, severely affecting the chewing function as well as the obvious aesthetic implications.

Replacing the missing tooth with an implant is the most effective way of restoring balance, function and aesthetics to the patient.

An artificial “root” is placed surgically into the jaw. The implant is usually made of titanium; however full ceramic implants are available to patients with metal allergies. After a period of healing (integration) of about 3 – 6 months a crown is placed on the implant.

 

 

Conventional dentures (“false teeth”) are still in regular demand. Fortunately the materials have improved to such an extent, that denture wearers have a wide choice of styles, shapes and colours to choose from. Custom made dentures can put a smile on your face!!

For patients struggling with loose dentures, especially the lower ones, various affordable techniques for stabilization have been developed. These are known as “overdentures” and are essentially “clip on” dentures to 2 (TWO) or 4 (FOUR) mini implants placed in the jaw with a minor surgical procedure.

 

 

With time and many diverse dietry factors, the enamel on the surface of the teeth becomes stained. Removing these intrinsic stains and lightening the teeth can be done using bleaching solutions containing either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. At our practice we offer both in-office light activated whitening as well as a variety of take-home “do it yourself” kits.

 

 

Attending a dental appointment may be a very nerve wracking and uncomfortable experience for many people. Dental fear is very common occurrence and nothing to be ashamed of.

We are in the fortunate position to offer full dental treatment under general anesthetic at the extremely well equipped and pleasant Centurion Clinic for Cosmetic and Dental Surgery. Patients are admitted, treated and discharged all in the space of a few hours and ready for the office the next day.