Treatments
General Dentistry
Good oral health starts with regular examinations and spotting problems early. General dentistry covers check-ups, scaling and cleaning, treatment of decay and care for the gums.
What is it?
At regular check-ups, the teeth, gums and previous treatments are examined, with X-rays when needed. When decay and gum problems are found early, they can usually be treated more simply.
Scaling removes the hardened plaque and tartar that brushing cannot, helping to prevent and treat gum inflammation. Where there is decay, the decayed tissue is removed and the tooth is restored with tooth-coloured composite fillings.
Preventive care looks at brushing and interdental cleaning technique, diet and a check-up interval that suits you.
The process
Examination
Your teeth, gums and any existing fillings or prosthetics are examined, with X-rays if needed.
Scaling and cleaning
Tartar and plaque are removed, and the tooth surfaces are then polished.
Fillings and other treatment
Decayed teeth are restored with composite fillings, and any other treatment needed is planned with you.
Preventive advice and follow-up
Advice on caring for your teeth is given, and the time of your next check-up is agreed together.
Who is it for?
- Anyone who wants to keep up regular dental check-ups
- People who notice bleeding, redness or swelling of the gums
- People with decay, sensitivity or a broken filling
- People who are due for scaling and cleaning
Frequently asked questions
How often should I have a check-up?
One or two check-ups a year are recommended for most people, but the right interval for you is decided by your dentist based on your oral health.
Does scaling damage the teeth?
Scaling does not wear away the enamel; it removes deposits from the tooth surface. Brief sensitivity or slight gum bleeding may follow and usually settles within a few days.
My gums bleed when I brush. Is that normal?
Bleeding when brushing is most often a sign of gum inflammation. It usually improves with scaling and good oral care; an examination is recommended.
What is a composite filling?
Composite is a tooth-coloured filling material that is bonded to the tooth. The shade is matched to the neighbouring teeth, and the filling is usually completed in a single appointment.
What should I be careful about after a filling?
Because a composite filling is hardened with a curing light, it can be used shortly afterwards; even so, you should avoid eating until the anaesthetic wears off. Brief sensitivity may occur; if it persists, contact your dentist.
Appointments
Book an examination
The right treatment for you is planned after an examination and any necessary tests, weighing the options together.
Treatments
Other treatments
- Smile DesignAesthetic treatments planned as a whole, around your facial features and teeth.
- Dental ImplantsA fixed replacement for missing teeth, close to natural teeth in function and appearance.
- Zirconia and VeneersZirconia crowns and porcelain veneers that restore the shape, colour and function of teeth.
- Dental BondingSmall gaps, chips and shape irregularities corrected with tooth-coloured composite.
- Dentures and BridgesReplacing missing or badly worn teeth with fixed or removable prosthetics.
- Root Canal TreatmentTreating an inflamed or infected dental pulp to keep the natural tooth.