treatments
Whether you just want to look after the health of your teeth, or are interested in improving the appearance of your smile, our dental people will be able to help.
You can find out about all of the treatments offered throughout our practices below.
If you have any further questions or concerns, your local Oasis dental practice will be happy to help.
bridges
Bridges offer a permanent, fixed replacement for one or more missing teeth. The teeth either side of the gap are prepared by your dentist and the replacement teeth are bonded to these teeth to 'bridge the gap'.
Using a bridge helps prevent the remaining teeth from drifting out of position if an empty space is left uncorrected which can cause bite problems and some discomfort.
more information about bridges
crowns
Crowns are used to repair and protect damaged or weak teeth. A crown will often be recommended where the damage is too extensive to be repaired by a simple filling or inlay. The weak or damaged part of the tooth is carefully removed and covered with the 'crown' which is bonded to the remaining tooth. The end result is both strong and durable.
more information about crowns
dentures
Dentures are used to replace lost or missing teeth and are either full dentures, which replace all of the original teeth, or partial, which are used as an alternative to a bridge to fill gaps in your teeth.
There are a range of alternatives to removabale dentures which are fitted to a set of dental implants. These implants hold a special denture firmly in place or are used to attach a permanent, hand crafted set of porcelain teeth which look, feel and act just like real teeth.
more information about dentures
fillings, inlays and onlays
Fillings replace parts of the tooth that have been lost through wear, damage or decay. Your dentist will carefully remove any damage or decay and restore the tooth to its original size and shape with a strong and durable filling.
Where the nature of the damage or decay makes a filling impractical, the decayed or weak part of the tooth can be removed and replaced with an inlay or onlay - a replacement made to fit into the space left by the removed part of the tooth.
more information about fillings, inlays and onlays
gum disease
Gum disease occurs when plaque and tartar build up occurs on the teeth. Gum disease results in receding gums which, left untreated, can result in weakened or even lost teeth.
In most cases, gum disease is prevented by looking after your teeth with a good regular oral hygiene regime which includes brushing, flossing and regular visits to your dentist and dental hygienist.
more information about gum disease
implants
Dental implants are a great option to replace missing teeth. Implants are essentially an artifical tooth root onto which an artificial tooth is placed. The end result looks, feels and behaves like a natural tooth - implants are very durable and will last for many years if good oral hygiene is maintained.
Implants also provide a great alternative to dentures and can be used to replace a single tooth, or even a full set of teeth.
more information about implants
looking after your teeth
It is important that between visits to your dentist, you look after your teeth well. Good oral hygiene is essential to reduce bad breath and reduce the build up of plaque and tartar that can lead to gum disease. It will also reduce the need for fillings and other future treatment.
Your dentist and hygienist will advise you how to brush properly, whether you use an electric or manual toothbrush, and how to use floss and interdental brushes to keep teeth and gums healthy.
more information about looking after your teeth
root canal
Root fillings, or root canal treatments, are needed when a large cavity in a tooth reaches the nerve chamber, or in some cases when a tooth breaks. The decayed nerve needs to be removed and the root space filled. A root filling will often allow you to keep a tooth which would otherwise have to be extracted and replaced with a bridge, denture or implant.
more information about root canal
teeth straightening
There are a wide range of options available for straightening crooked teeth. The most common uses either a fixed or removable brace to which wires are attached which gently move the teeth into place. This work is carried out by a qualified ortodontist.
Other options exist, including clear braces such as invisalign. If you are interested in straighter teeth, ask your dentist about the options available to you.
more information about teeth straightening
teeth whitening
Teeth whitening is a simple procedure used to lighten the colour of your teeth to a desired shade. A variety of methods are available: home whitening involves the use of a clear gum shield into which a whitening agent is applied and then worn overnight. The other method,which is carried out in surgery and offers more immediate results, involves the application of a gel and laser treatment.
Your dentist will advise you on the shade best suited to you and the appropriate treatment method.
more information about teeth whitening
TMJ dysfunction
The TMJ (Temporo-Mandibular Joint) is the joint that allows the jaw to open and close. The jaw joint allows movement between the mandible (jaw bone) and the skull. Muscles attached to the skull and jaw bone cause the jaw bone to move as the mouth is opened and closed.
Problems often involve pain or clicking of the joint. Your dentist will be able to discuss the options available for treatment.
more information about tmj dysfunction
veneers
A veneer is a thin, custom-made moulding usually made from porcelain which is bonded to the front surface of a tooth. Veneers provide a rapid solution to hide stained, chipped, mis-shaped or crooked teeth. They can also be used to cover gaps in teeth where orthodontic treatment may not be suitable.
Your dentist will provide more detailed advice about veneers.
more information about veneers