Category: Dental Health

Composite Cosmetic Bonding – Your Questions and Concerns Answered

Composite Cosmetic Bonding - Your Questions and Concerns Answered

In today’s world, having an attractive smile is equally important as one’s dress and the car one drives. This is because your smile is the first thing people notice about you. Unfortunately, people who have flawed smiles due to stained, chipped, or crooked teeth are often perceived as unattractive and less friendly. If you also have cosmetic tooth defects affecting your facial aesthetics and smile, there are several options available in cosmetic dentistry to fix these issues. Among these options, cosmetic dental bonding is one of the simplest and most cost-effective restorative and cosmetic treatment options. 

If your dentist has suggested cosmetic bonding to eliminate your facial flaws and you’re unsure about this treatment option, this article is for you. This blog explains everything you need to know about composite bonding to make an informed decision regarding your cosmetic dental treatment. 

What Is Tooth Bonding?

Cosmetic bonding is a procedure in which your dentist will restore the structure, function, and aesthetics of broken, chipped, or stained teeth using tooth-coloured filling material. Composite restorations are also called bonded restorations as they are directly bonded to the prepared natural teeth. According to the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, cosmetic bonding can also be used as an alternative to more costly cosmetic procedures such as porcelain veneers and crowns. 

Is Composite Bonding A Good Option For My Teeth?

Composite restorations, or resin-based fillings, are absolutely safe for use in the oral cavity and carry minimal risk of adverse effects or allergies. Besides, bonded restorations possess excellent aesthetics; teeth restored with composite fillings blend in perfectly and become virtually indistinguishable from the natural ones. Therefore, composite bonding is one of the best options for restoring structurally damaged or cosmetically flawed teeth. 

Can Dental Bonding Be Added To The Back Of Front Teeth?

Composite restorations are bonded directly to the natural tooth structure. As a result, they do not require significant tooth removal for their attachment. Their ability to be bonded to the tooth structure also allows them to place on any tooth surface, whether on the front, back, or sides. In fact, composite fillings can also be bonded to the back surfaces of the front teeth. Today, composite restorations are sufficiently strong and durable. Hence, they can also be used to restore back teeth, which receive heavy biting forces. 

Will Composite Fillings Fully Close The Gap And Be Able To Floss?

The ideal treatment option for closing teeth gaps, also called diastemas, is orthodontic treatment with braces. This is because orthodontic treatment will physically move the teeth to close the gaps. However, if one cannot afford orthodontic treatment or is not willing to wait for a few months or years for their teeth gaps to be closed, composite bonding may also be used to fix this issue. However, composite fillings are only suitable for cosmetically closing minor teeth gaps. It must also be kept in mind that bonding offers only a cosmetic solution, and it does not fix the underlying problem. However, the good news is that once your teeth gaps have been corrected with bonding, you will be able to floss normally. 

Can I Bite Burgers And Pizzas From My Front Bonded Tooth?

A few years ago, dentists would advise their patients to avoid biting directly on hard foods with their front teeth if they had composite filings. But today, modern composite restorations are amazing; they offer excellent aesthetics and are pretty strong and durable. Therefore, there is no harm in biting on burgers, pizzas, or other fast foods items with your bonded front teeth. However, you must still be cautious while biting on very hard foods like nuts, as they may fracture the restoration. 

How Long Will Front Teeth Bonding Last?

Contemporary bonded restorations are much stronger and more durable than they were a few decades ago. According to the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, bonded restorations can last for up to 4 years before they need to be repaired or replaced. Your composite fillings can last even longer if you maintain optimal oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for checkups. 

What Are The Advantage Of Composite Fillings?

Composite restorations offer various advantages, such as:

  • Less Costly – composite restorations are less expensive than other cosmetic options like veneers, lumineers, and crowns. 
  • Tooth Conservation – unlike silver amalgam fillings, composite restorations do not require extensive removal of healthy tooth structure 
  • Aesthetics – being tooth-coloured, the shade and colour of the bonded restorations can be matched precisely with the neighbouring teeth, thereby offering natural aesthetics. 
  • Repairability – minor defects in composite restorations are repairable.

Do Composite Veneers Ruin Your Teeth?

Composite veneers are thin shells of composite resins that are prepared in the laboratory and then bonded to the front surfaces of the front teeth. Although composite veneers require the removal of a thin layer of the outer enamel, they don’t damage our teeth.  Instead, they can significantly improve the aesthetics and strength of our teeth. So, no; composite veneers do not damage or ruin our teeth. 

Can Bonded Teeth Be Whitened?

Bonded teeth have the same aesthetics as natural ones. However, one of the drawbacks of bonded restorations is that they get stained pretty easily. And unfortunately, stains on bonded restorations cannot be removed through professional whitening, as in the case of natural teeth. So if your composite restorations get stained, your dentist will have to repair them or replace them with fresh ones. 

Finding an experienced and qualified cosmetic dentist who can transform your smile is truly a blessing. If you are looking for a cosmetic and family dentistry practice in Ballsbridge local parts of Dublin, look no more! Pembroke Dental is there to take care of all your dental needs. So, what are you waiting for? Book a free consultation appointment today and begin your journey towards your dream smile. 

The Importance Of Dental Crown Cleaning

The Importance Of Dental Crown Cleaning

We all know that regular brushing and flossing are most effective in keeping our gums and teeth healthy. But did you know that it is even more essential to keep dental prostheses like crowns, bridges, and dentures clean? So, whether it’s natural, restored, or artificial teeth, ensuring optimal cleaning is necessary to ensure their long clinical life and survival. This article discusses why it is important to ensure optimal teeth cleaning is restored with dental crowns and other prostheses. Continue reading to find out more.

Can You Put A Crown On A Decayed Tooth?

A dental crown is a cap-shaped structure that rests on damaged natural teeth and restores their aesthetics, structure, and function. If you have a grossly damaged tooth, your dentist may reinforce it with a porcelain or composite crown. However, dental crowns cannot be directly placed over decayed teeth. First, your dentist will remove the decayed tooth structure and replace it with a suitable filling. Only then can they put a crown over the tooth. 

Can I Get A Cavity Under A Crown?

Although not very common, it is possible to get a cavity under a crown. This type of tooth decay is known as secondary caries or decay. When your dentist places a crown over a tooth, they place an adhesive inside the crown, which fills the space between the tooth and the prosthesis. This adhesive serves two purposes; ensure that the crown remains firmly adherent to the supporting tooth and to fill the space to prevent bacterial growth, which may lead to secondary tooth decay. Secondary teeth cavities can arise either due to improper dimensions of the prosthesis or incomplete sealing by the adhesive cement. 

How Do I Take Care Of My Dental Crown?

Looking after your crowned teeth, even a dental implant is simple as taking care of your natural teeth:

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day
  • Use fluoride toothpaste
  • Floss at least once a day.
  • Avoid eating hard or sticky foods – they can exert pressure on the crown and result in their dislodgment.

Finally, you should visit your dentist regularly for checkups to ensure the optimal health of your teeth, gums, and dental prostheses. 

Why Does Crowned Tooth Gum Smell?

When healthy, there should be no smell from teeth are restored with dental crowns. However, if the gum tissues surrounding a crowned tissue become inflamed due to plaque deposition and bacterial penetration, the gums appear red and swollen and give off a foul smell. If you feel an unpleasant odour emanating from your gums, don’t take this condition lightly and visit your dentist immediately for treatment without delay.

Is It Possible For A Permanent Dental Crown To “Taste Funny”?

Crowned teeth function just like normal teeth; they don’t have any smell or taste. However, if your crown tastes funny or salty, it may be due to an underlying problem. In most cases, it may be due to the inflammation of the gums, which leads to the release of the highly concentrated gingival fluid. In some cases, it may be due to the blood coming from infected gum tissues. Regardless, such conditions should not be taken lightly, and immediate dental help should be sought.

How Do I Remove Black Lines Around The Crown Of A Tooth?

Black staining of the crowns can occur for various reasons, most commonly due to strong-coloured foods and drinks. Naturally, stained crowns create an aesthetic problem. Unfortunately, stains on dental crowns cannot be removed through professional teeth whitening. If you have stains around your crowns, your dentist will suggest replacing them with fresh ones. 

Can You Floss Around A Crown?

Oral hygiene maintenance for crown-supported teeth is just like natural ones. You should brush and floss normally around the crowned teeth just like you do with the natural ones. In fact, it is even more important to ensure optimal cleaning around the crowns as the crowned teeth are at a higher risk of developing secondary tooth cavities and gum problems. 

What Are The Types Of Teeth Cleaning?

Professional teeth cleaning is one of the most effective methods for the prevention and management of gum disease. When it comes to teeth cleaning, there are two main types. The first type of cleaning simply involves removing the plaque and tartar deposits from the teeth using ultrasonic instruments. This type of cleaning is reserved for mild to moderate periodontal problems. The other type of professional teeth cleaning, also called deep cleaning, involves plaque removal from the teeth and below the gums, followed by polishing the tooth surfaces to prevent future infection. 

Is The Oral Irrigator Helpful To Teeth?

An oral irrigator is an appliance that works like dental floss. The device generates a pressurised stream of water that helps remove plaque and tartar deposits from the teeth. According to the Mayo Clinic, while water irrigators or flossers can remove plaque and tartar deposits from interdental spaces, they cannot be considered a substitute for regular brushing and traditional flossing. 

Why Is Dental Deep Cleaning Necessary?

Deep cleaning is a procedure in which your dentist will use an ultrasonic scaler to remove plaque and tartar deposits from your teeth and below the gumline. Dental experts recommend that everyone should visit their dentist for a checkup at least twice a year. During the routine checkup, if your dentist or dental hygienist finds underlying signs of gum disease, they will recommend professional cleaning. However, in advanced stages, a deep cleaning may be necessary to treat the underlying issue. 

Dental crowns and other prostheses should be looked after just like natural teeth. More importantly, visiting your dentist regularly for checkups ensures that your natural and restored teeth remain healthy and last for a lifetime. If you are in Dublin, and looking for a family dental practice, then Pembroke Dental in Ballsbridge should be your choice. We offer high-quality dental care under one roof in a calm, relaxing, and comfortable environment. So, book a consultation appointment with us today and let us take good care of your family’s oral health. 

 

The Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening for a Perfect Smile

The Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening for a Perfect SmileDid you know that our smiles have at least nine types of “superpowers”? Being an indicator of one’s “lifespan” and making us look more competent are to name a few. Psychologists even say that one smile stimulates the brain the same way that 2,000 chocolate bars do!

A more recent study also found evidence that smiling alone can indeed make us feel happier. This simple act can already boost our moods and lift our spirits.

What if you’ve lost confidence in your smile due to stains or discolouration? In this case, professional teeth whitening procedures can help you get it back.

In this guide, we’ll share with you some of the top benefits of in-office teeth whitening in Ireland. Read on so you can learn more about the process, and why you should consider investing in such services.

Professional Teeth Whitening Is the Fastest Way to Combat Tooth Stains or Discolouration

Home teeth whitening treatments can make your teeth whiter by up to six shades in only a few days. Here at Pembroke Dental Ballsbridge, we can do this through the use of Philips Zoom!

Philips Zoom! is a teeth whitening system that uses the highest quality and safety tested whitening gels. It’s a scientifically-backed method that has shown to produce significant whitening results. It’s safe, it’s fast, and it’s also cost-effective.

Initial Home Whitening Treatments Are Safer

A highly-experienced teeth whitening dentist must first carry out a dental check-up. The Pembroke Dental Ballsbridge team does this prior to performing teeth whitening. We do this to ensure that our treatments are 100% safe for all our patients.

Whilst a lot of people can get their teeth whitened, it’s vital to ensure that the patient’s gums are healthy. Teeth whitening with Zoom is safe, but it may cause discomfort in people with gum disease.

Also, note that teeth whitening works best on teeth that are free of plaque and tartar. Plaque is the sticky, see-through film that forms on the teeth within minutes. If left undisturbed (AKA not brushed away) for two to six hours, it starts to colonise on the teeth surfaces.

Unremoved plaque can then harden into dental calculus, also known as tartar. If this happens, the teeth can develop yellowish or even brownish stains, and are also at a higher risk of decay. Only a dentist or dental hygienist can safely remove this calcified plaque.

As you can see, it’s always best to see a professional teeth whitening dentist first. This way, you can rest assured that your teeth and gums are clean and healthy enough for whitening. In turn, this will help you achieve the best and safest results possible.

Some Types of Whitening Toothpaste May Do More Damage Than Good

Peroxide is the active ingredient responsible for removing tooth stains and discolouration. In Ireland, over-the-counter whitening toothpaste may only contain 1% (or less) of peroxide. Dentists are the only ones who can access products that have anything higher than this (up to 6%).

Peroxide, in controlled amounts, is potent enough to dissolve intrinsic and extrinsic stains. However, its improper use (and dosage) may lead to the wearing of the enamel of the teeth. Also, some studies found that some commercial whitening toothpaste products enhanced enamel erosion.

This is why it’s best to always seek the help and advice of a licensed dentist before you use any whitening product. This way, you can be sure that it is safe for your teeth and gums.

This also further highlights the advantage of going for an in-office treatment. A skilled cosmetic dentist will employ proper procedures when using whitening agents.

Smile Proudly Right After the Treatment

Discoloured or stained teeth can be a huge source of embarrassment for many people. Often, those who have visible teeth stains smile with their mouths closed. Others hide their smiles behind their hands.

The thing is, all these can make a person feel overly sensitive and self-conscious. Badly-stained teeth may also push them to stop smiling altogether. This, in turn, can have a massive impact on one’s self-esteem and overall well-being.

Researchers have been studying the effects of teeth whitening on dental patients. Many of them, such as this one, found evidence of positive psychosocial impact. The patients themselves also report increased esthetic self-perception.

You can start enjoying all these benefits right after your first in-office procedure. Best of all, the Philips Zoom! treatment doesn’t involve any downtime at all. Since it’s a home process, you can schedule to wear your bleaching trays at the best time to suit you.

Having Whiter Teeth May Help You Be More Attentive to Your Oral Health

Once you have whiter teeth, you’re more than likely to want to keep it that way. This, in turn, may help promote better overall oral hygiene.

For example, your improved smile may help you stick to better oral health practices. This means brushing your teeth for at least two minutes after every meal. Researchers say that in doing so, you can get rid of 26% more plaque than brushing for 45 seconds.

Having whiter teeth may also help you rethink some lifestyle choices, such as smoking. This habit, aside from being a leading cause of diseases, can also cause severe teeth staining. Moreover, it can make you more prone to oral disorders, such as tooth decay and gum disease.

In these ways, teeth whitening may also benefit your overall oral health. By paying more attention to your teeth, you can lower your risks for more painful conditions. Since you want to keep your teeth white, then this may also encourage you to see your dentist more often.

Put the Super Powers of Your Smile to Better Use

As you can see, professional teeth whitening can bring more than aesthetic benefits. It’s one of the fastest ways to better, more dazzling smiles, but it can also help give your self-esteem a boost.

So, if you’ve been hiding your smiles, consider seeing a teeth whitening dentist now. The sooner you do, the sooner you can reap the most out of your smile’s many superpowers.

Do you want to learn more about teeth whitening or cosmetic dentistry in Dublin, D4? If so, then please feel free to get in touch with us here at Pembroke Dental Ballsbridge! You can also request an appointment schedule so we can start your smile makeover journey.

Exclusive Offer for Number One Ballsbridge Residents

To welcome our new neighbours to Dublin 4, we have an exclusive offer for residents of Number One Ballsbridge! Check out your own BuildingLink directory to access more information, or visit the offers page of the Pembroke Dental Ballsbridge website for details. Call Pembroke Dental Ballsbridge on 01 668 3242 for any bookings.

Not a Number One Ballsbridge resident but interested in finding out what Pembroke Dental Ballsbridge can do for your company or building? Visit our Dental Corporate Partnership page or contact the practice to join the Corporate mailing list.

Latest Summer Offer: Save on Teeth Whitening

So the bright summer weather still hasn’t arrived, but at least your smile can be brighter with Pembroke Dental Ballsbridge!

Half Price Teeth Whitening

Young woman posing after following dental implants procedure

Whitening treatment is a really effective way to get brighter, noticeably whiter teeth in a short period of time. Its a fantastic way to transform your smile when, for example, you have a special occasion coming up soon. Bespoke trays are provided together with either daytime or night-time gel, to use at home to achieve the shade of smile you always wanted.

From 17th June to 30th August 2019 our dentists at Pembroke Dental Ballsbridge are offering HALF PRICE bespoke take-home teeth whitening kits when you attend Dr Keenan, Dr Collins or Dr Kelly for a dental exam.

Not interested in whitening but still want a brighter smile? Visit your hygienist for a scale & polish or speak to your dentist about composite bonding, veneers and alternative treatments to improve the appearance of your teeth.

To make an appointment, call 01 668 3242, email info@pembrokedentist.ie or use the contact form on our website.

For more details, please see our offers page, and keep an eye on our website, Facebook and Instagram for more offers this summer!

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