Jones Dental

What is a bridge?

A bridge is an appliance permanently fixed in the mouth to replace missing teeth. It uses remaining teeth to support the new artificial tooth or teeth. A bridge is made up of two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap, these two anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth, and a false tooth/teeth rigidly attached in between. The false teeth are called pontics. The bridge can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain or a combination of these materials.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant can be thought of as an artificial tooth root that is placed in the jawbone. When a crown, fixed bridge or a full set of dentures is added, one or more missing teeth can be replaced. A dental implant is fabricated from a very strong, biocompatible material. After an initial healing period, during which the implant is buried in bone and left undisturbed under gum tissue, it is uncovered and connected to a small metal post that secures and supports the artificial tooth.

What should I do in a dental emergency?

Call Jones Dental as soon as possible to make an appointment, at all 4 Jones Dental locations we keep emergency appointments each day for such occurrences and our Unanderra surgery is open every Saturday.

Are amalgam fillings harmful?

Dental amalgam, or sliver fillings, have been used as a reliable, efficient, long-lasting and safe filling material for over 100 years. There is no scientific evidence to indicate that amalgam fillings are dangerous and health experts and institutions world-wide support the use of amalgam fillings. The World Health Organisation and the World Dental Federation have released a joint statement confirming the safety of dental amalgam as a filling material.

What is a crown?

Dental crowns cover over and encase the tooth on which they are cemented. Dentists use crowns when rebuilding broken or decayed teeth, as a way to strengthen teeth and as method to improve the cosmetic appearance of a tooth. Crowns are made in a laboratory by a dental technician who uses moulds of your teeth made by your dentist. The type of crown your dentist recommends will depend on the tooth involved. They include porcelain crowns, porcelain-bonded-to-metal crowns, or gold alloy crowns.

What is cosmetic dentistry?

In today’s age of technology, your dentist has a range of options to help your teeth look great. Stained teeth, dark teeth, chipped teeth, crooked teeth, and even teeth that are missing altogether, can be repaired or replaced. Cosmetic or aesthetic dentistry is the broad heading under which many dental procedures that improve the appearance of teeth may be described.

Should I have my amalgam fillings replaced?

Replacing any filling unnecessarily or for improved appearance results in additional tooth substance loss and weakening of the remaining tooth structure. Unless there is a legitimate dental need to replace your filling, you are better off keeping the fillings you have. Talk to your dentist of you are unsure.

What is the best technique to brush my teeth?

When brushing your teeth place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth, aiming the bristles of your brush toward the gum line. The join between the teeth and the gum is where a lot of bacteria and plaque accumulates. Once you have the brush at the correct angle, jiggle the brush gently back and forward, only brushing one or two teeth at a time. Don’t be excessively vigorous. Brush teeth in order, inside, outside and chewing surfaces. Don’t forget to brush your tongue as well.

Does Jones Dental do tooth whitening?

Yes Jones Dental offers tooth whitening. Your dentist, after assessing if tooth whitening is suitable for you, takes an impression of your teeth. A special thin tray is then constructed to fit your teeth accurately. The whitening agent, which is in the form of a gel, is placed in the tray and the tray is worn at home for the period of time recommended by your dentist in order to achieve the best result.

How do I know if I need a filling?

You may not know if you need fillings. Many small to medium holes in teeth are asymptomatic, giving no pain. In fact, decay can sometimes eat out two-thirds of the tooth from the inside and you would have no idea it is happening. You may be able to see a change in the colour on some of your teeth which may indicate early decay. If your teeth are sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet food and drink, you may need fillings. All persistently sensitive teeth should be checked by your dentist.