Hermitage Dental

What is a bridge in dental terms?

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 conventional fixed bridge consists of crowns that are fixed to the teeth on either side of the missing teeth and false teeth are rigidly attached to these crowns. An enamel bonded bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework., to which the artificial teeth are attached, then resin bonded to supporting teeth.

What dental care can you provide for my children?

Children's examinations involve a full mouth check-up of all teeth. It includes checking for decay, oral hygiene, eruption dates, occlusion, crowding, fissure sealants and tonsil enlargement. For our little patients we provide gentle treatment, music and television in the chair to ensure they have a joyful experience at the dentist.

What is a crown in dental terms?

Dentists use crowns when rebuilding broken or decayed teeth, as a way to strengthen teeth and to improve the cosmetic appearance of a tooth. Crowns are made using moulds of your teeth made by your dentist. The type of crown will depend on the tooth involved and sometimes on your preference. They include porcelain crowns, porcelain-bonded-to-metal crowns, which combine the appearance of tooth coloured material with the strength of metal, gold alloy crowns and acrylic crowns.

At what age should I schedule my child's first visit to a dentist?

Early visits can prevent minor problems from becoming major ones. Your dentist will be able to detect early decay. Teach good habits early, as good habits start young for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Brush frequently to keep plaque levels low, reduce snacking and begin dental visits early.

I'm experiencing pain in my teeth; do I need root canal treatment?

If you're experiencing pain when chewing, facial swelling or sensitivity to hot and cold beverages, you need to have the tooth examined. In some circumstances, the nerve of the tooth may have become infected and root canal treatment can help save the tooth. Root canal treatment is a process of disinfection to restore the tooth to function without pain.

What are sports mouthguards used for?

Mouthguards prevent damage to your children's teeth from trauma while playing sport. Teeth are at risk of breaking or chipping during high-contact sports. Custom made mouthguards have a thick protective layer that absorbs the impact and leaves the teeth intact after a trauma. They can be made in multiple colours.

Why do I need regular check-ups?

Regular check-ups can help detect dental problems early and reduce future dental expense. Our examinations are very thorough to ensure no issues are left unnoticed. Six monthly cleans are a very important part of dental health, and help prevent gum and bone infections.

What does root canal treatment really mean?

Root canal or endodontic treatment is a process whereby inflamed or dead pulp is removed from the inside of the tooth, enabling a tooth that was causing pain to be retained. Once a tooth is fully formed it can function almost as a well as a normal healthy tooth, after it has been root canal treated, and can remain in service for many years.

I have a fear of dentists, what can I do?

The best way to overcome your fear is to discuss your concerns with your dentist. Experiences as a child may become distorted by time and reinforced by outdated media presentation of stereotypes. Much has changed, thanks to technology and education, and dentists are skilled professionals in dealing with patients who are apprehensive about seeking treatment.

Do you have an emergency service?

Yes, the surgery can be opened if you are in fact suffering an emergency. Just call the after hours number listed and we will take care of you.