Decay Occlusal
Teeth have a hard enamel surface. But poor oral hygiene can lead to a build-up of plaque which can lead to decay. When this starts on the chewing surfaces of the teeth it will be referred to as Occlusal Decay. If decay is left untreated the nerve of the tooth may become infected and die. This may cause an abscess.
Decay Interproximal
Teeth have a hard enamel surface. But poor oral hygiene can lead to a build-up of plaque which can lead to decay. When this starts in the contact points in between the teeth it will be referred to as Interproximal Decay. If decay is left untreated the nerve of the tooth may become infected and die. This may cause an abscess.
Sensitivity
Dentine hypersensitivity is sensation felt when the nerves inside the dentin of the teeth are exposed to the environment. The sensation can range from irritation all the way to intense, shooting pain. This sensitivity can be caused by several factors, including wear, decaying teeth or exposed tooth roots. The effects of gum disease can lower the gumline and expose the roots. This will in turn expose the dentine of the root
Gum Disease
Gingivitis (“inflammation of the gum tissue”) is a term used to describe non-destructive gum disease. The most common form of gingivitis is in response to bacterial plaque adherent to tooth surfaces, termed plaque-induced gingivitis, and is the most common form of periodontal disease. In the absence of treatment, gingivitis may progress to periodontitis, which is a destructive form of periodontal disease.
Wisdom Teeth
An impacted Wisdom tooth. Some bone is removed to gain access … … the tooth is split … … the roots are removed separately. The gum is replaced and heals naturally.
Bruxism
Bruxism is characterized by the grinding of the teeth and is typically accompanied by the clenching of the jaw. It is an oral parafunctional activity that occurs in most humans at some time in their lives. In most people, bruxism is mild enough not to be a health problem. While bruxism may be a diurnal or nocturnal activity, it is bruxism during sleep that causes the majority of health issues and can even occur during short naps.
Lost Canine Guidance
When we grind our teeth from side to side … … the back teeth are protected to some extent by the canines. The back teeth are ‘separated’ as the canines meet. If the canines wear away then the back teeth will come together. This can cause fracturing of the sides of the back teeth … … particularly those that already have fillings and are weak. Restoring the canines can help prevent further damage.
Diastemas – Gap in Front Teeth
A gap in the front teeth (Diastema) can appear unsightly. Tubes are placed over the two teeth … … and filled with Composite material. This builds up the teeth, closing the gap. The material is hardened with a bright light.
Dry Mouth
Xerostomia is the medical term for the subjective complaint of dry mouth due to a lack of saliva. Saliva is produced by the salivary glands in the mouth. It naturally protects the teeth, washing away plaque, debris and neutralising acid. A reduction or absence of saliva can be caused by a number of factors.
Thumb Sucking
Thumb sucking can have a detrimental affect on children’s teeth. Over time the top teeth can be pulled forward … … and the bottom teeth pushed back.