General Dentistry
Oral examinations
The health of your teeth and gums are thoroughly examined to identify any existing or potential problems. This may include x-rays to find cavities or issues beneath your gums.
Composite fillings
Composite is the most common restorative material used in dentistry today. They are tooth-coloured hence making them more aesthetic and also its properties allow composite to bond to tooth structure, making it a desirable restorative material of choice in most cases.
Amalgam fillings
In modern dental practice, amalgam fillings are only reserved for cases where composite filling material cannot be used. For example, it is used in areas without good isolation from saliva and also in some pediatric patients with high cavity risks. Although amalgam does contain mercury, the amount contained is very small and Health Canada reports no health risks to patients.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown (or cap) covers the entire tooth surface to restore a tooth to its original shape and size. Typically, we would recommend crowns for structurally weak teeth that cannot be restored with fillings. There are different types of materials that can be used for dental crowns, including gold, porcelain and zirconia. Our dentists will go over the different options and answer any questions when a dental crown is recommended.
Examples of some indications where a dental crown is recommended:
- Broken or fractured teeth
- Cosmetic enhancement
- Decayed teeth
- Fractured fillings
- Teeth with large fillings that are structurally weak
- Tooth that has received a root canal treatment
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a non-removable (fixed) appliance and is an option to replace missing teeth. The appliance involves two crowns that are placed over the two anchoring teeth (also called abutment teeth) and the pontic (artificial tooth replacing the missing tooth) is attached to these two abutments.
Root Canals
Root canal treatment is necessary when there is a deep decay close to or into the pulp and/or there is an infection in the pulp. The dental pulp is the living nerve tissue inside the tooth. The procedure involves removing the infection inside the pulp tissue using medications and dental files. Then, the cleaned space is filled with an appropriate restorative material. This is the only treatment option to save the teeth that are infected into the nerve; otherwise, the tooth may need to be extracted.
If you experience an abscess/swelling around the gums of a tooth or have prolonged sensitivity to hot and cold or a severe tooth ache, this may indicate your tooth may be infected. Having a thorough examination to determine the cause of any toothache or discomfort is crucial in saving teeth before it is too late.
TMJ problems
If you experience daily headaches, jaw pain and teeth grinding, you may want to be evaluated for the presence of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. We will help you identify the cause of the TMJ problem and discuss any treatment options specific to your case. Some common treatment options involve, jaw exercises, medications, dental appliances and modifying occlusion.
The team at Promontory Heights Dental help you achieve the bright, healthy smile you deserve. Looking for a Dentist in Chilliwack, BC? Call us 604-846-4223
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