Restorative Treatment at Dental Vitality

When a tooth is cracked, chipped, broken or decayed, it needs to be restored so normal chewing function and appearance is maintained. We have several options to replace lost tooth structure.

Removal of Amalgam Fillings.

We have not used Amalgam (silver or Mercury) in this practice since 1990.

Dr Thomas and Dr Sharon introduced to the practice methods to safely control the removal and replacement of Amalgam restorations, this is available if you wish to have your metal fillings replaced. Unfortunately, Amalgam restorations can expand and contract with hot & cold foods putting excessive pressure on teeth.

All our products are TGA approved, our laboratories are in Australia and maintain Australian Standards.

Tooth Coloured Material. 

An attractive and cost effective option, Composite Filling material has been popular for over 40years. The Composite Resin we use is BPA Free for your peace of mind. This material is aesthetic, polishing to a high shine.  Strong, reasonably durable and convenient, it is done on-site same day.

 

CEREC ™ CADCAM

We are fortunate to be one of a few practices in Canberra to have a CEREC milling machine and furnace on site. This elaborate piece of technology constructs a porcelain filling while you wait via high-tech computer software and a skilful operator. Depending of the size or design of the porcelain it may be an Onlay, Inlay, Veneer or Crown. For additional strength the restoration is then baked in a furnace at 820C before cementation.

These restorations are very strong, tooth coloured and help protect the tooth from further breakages.

Because they are created on site and do not contain metals they are more economical than a laboratory produced crown.

 

Tooth Replacements

Replacing one or more missing teeth

Replacing missing teeth is often a challenge. Several treatments are available and Dr Thomas and Dr Sharon will provide guidance on the best option for you, taking into account function, aesthetics, longevity and value.

A Crown (commonly called a 'Cap')

A Crown, either Gold or Porcelain fused to Gold (PFG), is still considered to be the ‘gold standard’ in dental restoration. Taking 3 appointments and the expertise of an off-site laboratory, this option combines strength, aesthetics and function.

Dental Veneers

Used to cosmetically enhance your smile. After some preparation of the tooth surface a thin layer of Porcelain or Composite resin can be bonded to your teeth. This technique may be used to change the shape of an ‘odd’ tooth or close a gap. This technique is also popular for changing the shade and shape of the front teeth.

Implants

The replacement of a single missing tooth with an implant has become a popular choice because they look, feel and function like your own teeth. Several teeth can be replaced with an implant bridge and implants can also be used to stabilise a denture.

While this is an involved procedure, this option does not require adjacent teeth to be damaged. A referral to a specialist is required for the implant, and when completed the restorative crown is made by us using a specialist laboratory.

A Fixed Bridge

This was the best option to replace missing teeth prior to implants. Unfortunately, healthy tooth structure covering the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth is destroyed in the process. So while it is still a viable option, it’s no longer considered the treatment of choice. Generally 3 appointments are required as the Bridge is fabricated from gold and porcelain in a laboratory.

Removable Partial Denture

A Partial Denture is a viable, conservative and economical option for replacing missing teeth. As the appliance is removed to sleep it is susceptible to loss and damage so having a spare is smart. This option takes about a fortnight to fabricate in a laboratory.

Contact our friendly team to make an appointment.