General dentistry focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of dental problems. Our dental team are trained to provide a wide range of dental services, including routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, extractions, and root canals. They also offer advice on oral health and hygiene, such as brushing and flossing techniques, and can provide guidance on a variety of dental issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

In addition to providing preventive and restorative care, our dentists also offer cosmetic services, such as teeth whitening and veneers, to help improve the appearance of your smile. They also work in conjunction with other dental specialists, such as orthodontists and oral surgeons, to provide comprehensive care for our patients.

General dentistry plays an important role in maintaining and improving oral health, and is an essential part of a patient’s overall healthcare routine.

Prevention

Preventive dentistry focuses on maintaining good oral health and preventing dental problems from occurring. It involves a range of practices and treatments designed to help people maintain healthy teeth and gums and avoid dental decay, gum disease, and other dental problems.

Some of the key practices and treatments used in preventive dentistry include:

1. Regular dental check-ups: Regular dental check-ups are an essential part of preventive dentistry. Our dentists can identify potential dental problems early on and take steps to prevent them from worsening.

2. Dental cleanings: Regular dental cleanings or dental hygiene appointments help remove plaque and tartar build-up from the teeth and gums, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

3. Fluoride treatments: Fluoride treatments help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay.

4. Dental sealants: Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent tooth decay.

5. Oral hygiene education: Educating people about good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly, can help prevent dental problems.

6. Diet and lifestyle advice: Our dental professionals can provide advice on healthy diets and lifestyle choices that can promote good oral health.

By practicing good oral hygiene habits and seeking regular dental care, people can reduce their risk of developing dental problems and maintain healthy teeth and gums for a lifetime.

Invisible Fillings

In recent years white tooth-coloured fillings have gained increasing popularity replacing the old-style traditional metal mercury amalgam fillings.

Metal mercury amalgam fillings can be safely removed and replaced with composite resin or porcelain ceramic restorations. The aim is to restore the tooth, using state of the art techniques, to create natural results that are almost invisible to the eye.

If a tooth has decay or a hole (cavity) in the tooth we use white fillings to repair and restore the tooth back to its original form. The fillings are shade matched to your natural tooth, and are blended in artistically in layers to ensure an aesthetically pleasing result. These fillings are done in a single appointment. White fillings are also used to repair broken or worn teeth and can be used cosmetically to repair chipped teeth, this is commonly known as composite bonding.

Sometimes a lab made restoration is required for larger cavities to strengthen the tooth to ensure longevity. These restorations are called inlays or onlays and are created by a dental technician. This is a two-step process meaning a second appointment is required to bond the restoration in place once it has been beautifully crafted by our technician.

At Market Street Clinic we are proud to offer materials and treatments that are environmentally friendly, mercury free and biologically neutral.

Icon – White Spot Treatment

Icon white spot treatment is a minimally invasive treatment used to address white spots on teeth. These white spots are often caused by a loss of minerals in the tooth enamel, which can be the result of poor oral hygiene, excessive fluoride intake, or the early stages of tooth decay.

Icon treatment involves using a specially designed resin to infiltrate the porous enamel and restore the lost minerals. The resin is applied to the affected area and left to soak into the tooth for several minutes. Then, the excess resin is removed and the remaining resin is cured (hardened) with a special light.

The result of icon treatment is a noticeable reduction in the appearance of white spots on the teeth. The procedure is quick, painless, and usually completed in a single visit to the dentist. It’s important to note, however, that the success of the treatment will depend on the severity of the white spot and the underlying cause. In some cases, additional treatment may be necessary to achieve the desired result.

Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It can occur in any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, salivary glands, and tonsils.

Oral cancer screening is a simple examination performed by your dentist to check for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in the mouth. It’s typically recommended as part of a routine dental check-up, particularly for people who are at higher risk for oral cancer.

During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will visually inspect the inside of your mouth, including your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and the roof and floor of your mouth. They may also feel the tissues in your mouth and throat for any lumps, bumps, or other abnormalities.

Early detection of oral cancer is important for successful treatment, so it’s important to schedule regular dental check-ups and inform your dentist of any changes or symptoms you may be experiencing.

Risk factors for developing oral cancer include tobacco use (including smoking and smokeless tobacco), heavy alcohol consumption, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, poor oral hygiene, and a family history of oral cancer.

Symptoms of oral cancer may include a sore or lump in the mouth that does not heal, difficulty swallowing, persistent mouth pain, a persistent sore throat, or a change in voice. It is important to see your dentist if any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks.

Worn Teeth

Worn teeth, also known as tooth wear or tooth erosion, refers to the gradual loss of tooth structure that occurs over time due to a variety of factors. This can cause teeth to become shorter, flatter, or more sensitive.

There are three main types of tooth wear: attrition, abrasion, and erosion.

Attrition occurs when tooth surfaces are worn down by tooth-to-tooth contact, such as from grinding or clenching of the teeth. Abrasion occurs when tooth surfaces are worn down by external factors, such as brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with stiff bristles. Erosion occurs when tooth surfaces are worn down by exposure to acid, such as from acidic foods and drinks or acid reflux.

Symptoms of worn teeth may include sensitivity, cracks or chips in the teeth, flattened or worn down teeth, and changes in the bite or alignment of the teeth.

Treatment for worn teeth depends on the cause and severity of the tooth wear. For mild cases, changes to oral hygiene habits or dietary habits may be recommended. For more severe cases, dental restorations such as white fillings, crowns or veneers may be necessary to restore the tooth structure and protect the teeth from further wear. In cases of severe tooth wear due to grinding or clenching, a dental splint or mouthguard may be recommended to protect the teeth from further damage.

Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure that is performed to save a damaged or infected tooth. The procedure involves removing the damaged or infected tissue from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canal system, and filling it with a biocompatible material.

A root canal is typically needed when the pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes inflamed or infected. This can occur due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma to the tooth.

Symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal include severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling or tenderness in the gums, or a visible abscess on the gum.

The root canal procedure typically involves several steps. First, the dentist will numb the tooth and surrounding area with a local anesthetic. Then, they will make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp. They will use special instruments to remove the damaged or infected tissue from inside the tooth and clean the root canal system. Once the root canal is cleaned and disinfected, it will be filled with a biocompatible material to prevent further infection. Finally, a filling or crown will be placed over the tooth to restore its strength and function.

Following a root canal procedure, it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing regularly, to maintain the health of the tooth and prevent future dental problems.

Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Wisdom teeth extractions are a common dental procedure that involves removing one or more wisdom teeth, which are the last set of molars that typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. Wisdom teeth may need to be extracted if they are impacted (meaning they are unable to emerge from the gums), or if they are causing other dental problems.

Symptoms that may indicate the need for wisdom teeth extraction include pain or swelling in the gums or jaw, difficulty opening the mouth, or infection in the gums or surrounding teeth.

Following wisdom teeth extraction, it is important to follow the oral surgeon’s instructions for postoperative care, which may include resting for the first day, avoiding hard or chewy foods, and practicing good oral hygiene habits. Pain or discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications, and any prescribed antibiotics should be taken as directed. It is also important to attend any follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure there are no complications.

Crown and Overlay

A damaged tooth that still has a healthy foundation can be protected and visually improved with the addition of a crown or overlay. A crown, also known as a cap, is a type of dental restoration that completely covers or “caps” a damaged or decayed tooth. It is often used to strengthen a tooth that has been weakened by a large filling, root canal treatment, or fracture.

A dental crown can be made from various materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. The type of material used for the crown will depend on various factors, such as the location of the tooth, the amount of tooth structure remaining, and the patient’s personal preference.
The process of getting a tooth crown usually involves two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared by removing any decay or damaged tissue and shaping it to fit the crown.

An impression of the prepared tooth is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory where the crown is custom-made. A temporary crown may be placed over the tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being made.

During the second visit, the temporary crown is removed and the permanent crown is placed on the tooth. The dentist will check the fit and adjust it as necessary before cementing it into place.
Proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, is important to maintain the longevity of a dental crown. With proper care, a crown can last for many years.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a type of dental restoration that is used to replace one or more missing teeth. The bridge is made up of two or more dental crowns that are attached to the teeth on either side of the gap where the missing tooth or teeth once were. The crowns serve as anchors, or abutments, for a false tooth, or pontic, which is placed in the gap.

Dental bridges can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of the two. They are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth and match the colour of their natural teeth.
There are several benefits to getting a dental bridge, including improving the appearance of your smile, restoring your ability to chew and speak properly, preventing your remaining teeth from shifting out of position, and maintaining the shape of your face.

Your dentist can help you decide if a dental bridge is the right choice for you based on your individual needs and preferences.

Snoring Appliance

Simple snoring is the noise resulting from a partial closure of the airway during sleep. It is estimated that over 45% of the population snores, leading to disrupted sleep for the sufferer – and their bed partner.

Ranging from 50-100 decibels, the equivalent of a pneumatic drill, snoring can lead to relationship issues, daytime sleepiness, increased stress and depression if left untreated. Less often, snoring can also take place as part of a more serious condition, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), which is potentially life-threatening.

Patients suffering from snoring often go untreated, as they are too embarrassed to seek help for their problem. Those that do try to get help often consult their GP for a solution, where certain lifestyle changes may be suggested including, weight loss, different sleeping positions, staying well hydrated and avoiding alcohol.

What many patients are unaware of is that dentists can provide a clinically proven solution to treat their snoring with a Mandibular Advancement Splint. The Sleepwell MAS is the most clinically proven for the treatment of snoring and mild to moderate OSA.