| DENTAL
INFORMATION
BRIDGES AND
PARTIAL DENTURES
Why should I replace missing teeth?
For a number of reasons:- appearance, to help you eat, to prevent the
remaining teeth moving into unhealthy positions, or a combination of all
these factors.
What happens if teeth move?
On some occasions teeth opposite, or teeth next to, the gap can move
into the space. This may be harmful because it can result in tooth decay
or gum disease. The new position of the tooth often makes it difficult
to replace satisfactorily the missing teeth.
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How are teeth replaced?
This depends very much on how many are missing and their position in
the mouth. The condition of the remaining teeth must also be considered.
Basically, missing teeth can be replaced either by a removable
‘prosthesis’, a partial denture, which can be taken out and put back by
the patient, or by a fixed ‘prosthesis’, a bridge, which cannot be
removed by the patient.
What is a partial denture?
This consists of false teeth fixed to a plate which is then usually
held in place by the use of clips (clasps) that fit around some of the
remaining teeth. These clips may be visible in certain parts of the
mouth.
What are teeth made of?
Generally plastic, but in some cases porcelain is used.They are
chosen to match the shape, size and colour of your own teeth.
What is the plate made of?
The plate is made of a either a plastic or metal base such as chrome
cobalt, or in some cases gold or stainless steel.
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What is the difference between a plastic and a metal denture?
Plastic partial dentures are relatively easy and inexpensive to make.
Although suitable for a limited number of cases, they may harm the
remaining teeth. Metal dentures can be made more accurately and as the
metal is much stronger than the plastic the the plate is usually smaller
and thinner. These metal dentures, of course, have teeth attached to the
m and often a certain amount of gum coloured plastic into which the
teeth are fixed. metal dentures are considerably more complex and
expensive to make.
How do I decide which sore to choose?
Your dentist should advise you as to which will be more suitable.
However, cost may influence the decision.
How do I look after my denture.
The denture should be taken out of the mouth and cleaned as specified
by your dentist.
Should I sleep with my denture in?
It is generally though best that partial dentures should be taken out
of the mouth during sleep.
Is there an alternative to a partial denture?
As mentioned previously, it is possible in some cases to have a fixed
'prosthesis', usually called a bridge. A bridge consists of false teeth
filling the gap and fixed to existing teeth. This is stuck firmly in
place and is not removable by the patient. What usually happens is that
adjacent teeth are cut down and prepared for crowns. Onto these crowns
are fixed the false teeth and the whole unit is then stuck in place.
Can I always have a bridge if teeth are missing?
No. There have to be enough strong teeth in the mouth to support the
false teeth. It is up to your dentist to decide whether a bridge is
possible or advisable in any particular case.
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What are bridges made of?
Bridges usually have a metal base, normally gold, but other metals
are beginning to become available. Depending on the position of the
remaining teeth in the mouth, the metal may be covered with porcelain
(which is preferable) or plastic, to match your existing teeth.
Are bridges expensive?
To make a bridge requires a considerable amount of time and skill on
the part of dentist and technician. The materials are relatively
expensive so costs tend to be fairly high. Whilst a metal denture is
more expensive so costs tend to be fairly high. Whilst a metal denture
is more expensive than a plastic denture, a comparable bridge is more
expensive than either.
How do I look after my bridge?
The bridge should be cleaned as thoroughly as your own natural teeth
and your dentist may advise you in the use of dental floss to clean
under the bridge.
Are there any other methods of fixing false teeth?
In certain cases it is possible to use a technique falling between a
bridge and a partial denture. The clips which are used to secure a
partial denture might be unsightly and may not provide enough support.
Special precision retainer may overcome the problem. These precision
retainers are usually in two parts - one part is attached to the denture
and the other is fixed to a crown. The two parts of the precision
retainer then clip together and hold the denture in the mouth. The
denture can be removed by the patient when necessary. More than one
precision retainer may be needed for a denture and the combination of
crown, precision retainer and denture is expensive. However, it may be
the best alternative way to replace missing teeth, especially if a large
number of teeth have bee lost.
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Can I have teeth screwed in?
The idea of a missing tooth being replaced by screwing a false tooth
into the jaw bone has become a popular misconception - due to certain
techniques which patients may have carried out on them and
misunderstood. However, in certain cases a metal framework can be
inserted into the jaw by an operation. This is used to support either a
bridge or partial denture. Usually these implants are inserted as a last
resort if no other satisfactory method of replacing the missing teeth
can be found and the case is suitable.
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ROOT CANAL TREATMENT
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root Canal treatment (also called Endodontics is a treatment required
when the blood and nerve supply in a tooth (known as the pulp) becomes
infected through dental decay or injury.
Why is Root Canal treatment needed?
If the pulp of a tooth becomes infected, the infection can spread
throughout the root canal system of the tooth and could eventually form
an abscess.
If the Root Canal treatment is not carried out to remove the
infection, or to stop infection or to stop infection spreading, the
tooth may have to be taken out.
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Does it hurt?
No. Treatment is carried out routinely under a local anaesthetic and
is therefore painless.
What does it involve?
The objective of the treatment is the removal of all infection from
the Root Canal. The Root Canal is then refilled to prevent further
infection, which then allows the tissues around the root to heal.
Root Canal treatment is a skilled and time consuming procedure. A
typical course of treatment may therefore involve two or more visits to
your dentist.
At the first appointment for treatment, the infected pulp is removed.
Any abscesses which may be present can also be drained at this time. The
Root Canal system is then thoroughly cleaned and prepared ready for
filling.
A temporary filling is then placed in the tooth until the final
visit, when the Root Canals are re-checked for any infection, and then
permanently filled.
What will my tooth look like after treatment?
In the past, a root filled tooth often darkened after treatment. With
modern techniques this does not necessarily happen. However, should a
slight change of colour occur due the treatment carried out inside the
tooth, this can be corrected to restore the natural appearance of the
tooth.
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What if it happens against?
Modern Root Canal treatment procedures are highly successful and
recurrence of infection is uncommon . However, should it happen again,
the treatment can be repeated.
Is it expensive?
Root Canal treatment can take several hours to complete, depending on
the difficulties encountered. It is the time required which will dictate
the cost. However, your dentist will be pleased to give you an estimate.
What if I do not have this treatment?
The alternative is to have the tooth removed, because once the pulp
has been destroyed by infection, it cannot heal. Whilst the removal of a
tooth may be preferred in some cases, the overall balance of dental
health can be more easily maintained by keeping as many of your natural
teeth as possible.
Will the tooth be safe after treatment.
Yes. However, under some circumstances as tooth may require a
restoration such as a crown to help give further protection to the
tooth.
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Where can this treatment be obtained?
Root Canal treatment is a routine dental procedure which your dentist
will be happy to undertake if required.
What about aftercare?
Remember to clean your teeth thoroughly at least once a day,
preferably with a fluoride toothpaste. Keep sugary snacks and drinks to
a minimum, and only a mealtimes if possible, and have regular dental
check-ups.
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CROWNS
What is a crown?
A crown (also known as a cap) is an artificial cover which fits ovr a
specially prepared natura tooth in order to resore it to normal
appearance and function.
Why is a crown needed?
There are a number of reasons why a crown might be recommended by
your dentist. These might include:
1. Decay. A tooth may be so badly damaged by decay that
it becomes impossible to restore it with ordinary filling materials.
2. Cosmetic. Large fillings - especially old ones - may
discolour and become unsightly. Crowns also provide way of
improving the appearance or crooked or misshapen teeth.
3. Accidents. Teeth can be damaged in accidents and
crowns provide a way of rebuilding the toogh after such an incident.
4. When a tooth is missing, crowns may be placed on teeth
either side to support an artificial replacement to fill the gap. This
is known as bridge.
What are crowns made of?
This will depend on the individual situation. In the front of the
mouth, cosmetic considerations will play an important part as to which
material to use, whereas further back, more importance is attached to
the ability to withstand the huge forces generated when chewing
food.Modern crown materials can combine excellent appearance with great
strenght.
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Materials used for crowns include:
1. Porcelain. This can look very lifelike and is most
often used for front teeth.
2. Porcelain bonded to metal. This combines the appearance with
extra strength and resistance to fracture.
3. Thin porcelain. This uses the very latest technology.
The amount of tooth preparation is minimal and the
porcelain is cemented into palce to effectively bond the crown to the
tooth so that is becomes an integral part of the tooth. This is
therefore appropriate for front and possibly back teeth.
4. Gold. This is strong and hard wearing, but its obvious
physical appearance means that is usually only used at the back of the
mouth.
5. Plastic. This is used most often for temporary and
'semi-permanent' crowns.
6. Glass. These crowns look very lifelike and have been
used on both front and back teeth.
What is a post crown?
If a tooth is very badly damaged, it may be that the only way to
achieve secure anchorage is to fit a metal post into the root canal of
the tooth. This provides extra support, and in many cases is the only
way to repair a badly broken tooth.
How is a crown fixed to the tooth?
There are a number of special adhesives and cements used in
affixing crowns. The inside of the crown is filled with a liquid cement,
this is then pushed down over the tooth using firm but gentle pressure.
The cement then sets and any excess material is removed from the edge of
the crown and from between the teeth.
How long will a crown last?
Many dental laboratories belong to an organisatin known as CADLAS,
whose members adhere to a strict standard of workmanship and consistent
manufacturing practice incorporated into the British Standard known as
BS 5750.
Some dental laboratories will guarantee certain types of their crowns
for five years. However, it is important to remember that putting a
crown on a tooth does not render it impervious to decay. Your dentist or
hygienist will help ensure that problems do not develop.
It is also possible for the cement used for fixing a crown to fail,
so that the crown comes out. If this happens, the crown can normally be
recemented without much trouble. If the crown seems to be coming out
rather often, then this is a sign that there is an underlying problem
that needs to be corrected.
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Will it hurt?
It shouldn't; local anaesthetic should avoid any discomfort. Often,
however, if the crown is being made for a tooth which is no longer has a
nerve; if this is the case, there will be no need for a local
anaesthetic.
How long will it take?
Two visits will be necessary - one for preparation and one for
fitting. The time needed for each appointment will depend on several
factors, and this is best discussed with your dentist.
What will the crown look like - and feel like?
Your new crown should feel like a natural tooth, and if the crown is
made from a tooth-coloured material, then it will normally blend in well
with the surrounding teeth. Many dentists make a habit of allowing your
to look at yorself in the mirror with the crown in place befoe finally
cementing it, just to check that everything looks and feels right. If
you have any queries regarding the fit, function, or appearance of your
new crown, then do not hesitate to inform your dentist and ask for
advice.
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VISITING THE
HYGIENIST
What is a dental hygienist?
Dental hygienists are specially trained members of the dental team.
They play an important role in dental health care, preventing dental
disease by giving individual oral hygiene instruction to patient.
What is oral hygiene instruction?
It is a term used to describe methods of cleaning the mouth by
toothbrushing, flossing and other techniques.
What is the hygienist's role in the practice?
Hygienists have two main roles - scaling and polishing teeth and
teaching patients oral hygiene techniques. They work with the dentist to
establish and maintain a programme tailored to meet your specific needs
and skills.
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Why is this important?
Good home care is important if gum disease and tooth decay are not to
progress to more serious problems. a clean and healthy mouth will help
to improve your appearance and self-confidence, it will also give you
fresh breath making you nice to be near.
How can a hygienist help prevent disease?
Hygienists are trained to help prevent dental disease by
demonstrating how to care for your teeth and gums and advising on diet.
However, this is just part of the preventive technique.
What help is available for children?
Hygienists can apply fluoride in solution and gel form to teeth. They
can also help to prevent decay by applying fissure sealant to teeth.
Fissure sealant is a plastic material which is bonded to the biting
surface of back teeth and this helps protect them from decay.
Can help be give to adults?
When treating adults the hygienist will remove calculus (tartar) by
cleaning teeth meticulously. This is known as "scaling and polishing".
With correct home care and regular monitoring by the dentist and
hygienist it is possible to keep your teeth for life.
Why doesn't the dentist do the work?
The dentist may refer you to the hygienist as they are able to spend
more time on the scaling and polishing of your teeth. The hygienist has
been specifically trained to teach you how to look after your mouth and
guide you to the perfect cleaning regime.
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Will it hurt?
Scaling and polishing teeth should be pain-free and if you do
experience discomfort it is important that you tell the hygienist.
Arrangements can be made for you to have some form of pain control for
the areas that are uncomfortable.
Is it expensive?
The costs of treatment by hygienist will vary depending on the type
of treatment that is carried out, the geographical location of the
practice and whether the treatment is being carried out under the
National Health Service or private contract. it is important to confirm
and agree the cost of the treatment with the dentist as the start.
Is there anything I can do to help the hygienist?
Yes, you can do a great deal to help yourself because you are in
control or your oral hygiene between visits to the dental practice.
Your hygienist will show you a daily routine for removing plaque from
you mouth involving thorough cleaning with medium textured toothbrush
and fluoride toothpaste. you will also be shown how to remove plaque
from between teeth wit floss, wood sticks or a small inter-space brush.
There are a wide range of oral hygiene products available and your
hygienist will be pleased to recommend the most appropriate products for
you.
Your hygienist can also discuss the effect sugars can have on the
dental health and help you to reduce the frequency of eating and
drinking products containing sugars.
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Does every practice have a hygienist?
Not all practices have a hygienist. However an increasing number now
offer this service using either a part-time or full-time hygienist.
Hygienists are able to work in dental practices, hospital dental units
and the community dental service.
Tips for a healthy mouth.
· Use a toothbrush with a small head.
· Use a toothbrush with medium textured, nylon
bristles. Use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste.
· Thoroughly brush for 3 minutes at least once a day.
· Remember to concentrate on the area where teeth
meets gums.
· Use dental tape or floss to clean between your teeth
- your dentist or hygienist can show you how to do this.
· If necessary, use disclosing tablets to help
identify areas of the mouth which need more attention.
· Have regular dental check-ups.
· Watch the number of between meal snacks and drinks
you have.
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This Leaflet is one of a series prepared by the
British Dental Health Foundation which it is hoped you will find value
as a basis to help discussion with your dentist. Further information is
also available direct from the Foundation. Please send your question,
together with a stamped addressed envelope to :
BRITISH DENTAL
FOUNDATION
Eastlands Court
St.Peter's Road
Rugby CV21 3QP |
