PARKWOOD DENTAL and AESTHETIC CARE | Lip Fillers & Dermal Fillers | Aesthetic Treatment Beeston | Skin clinic in Leeds

Description

What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment (also called ‘endodontics') is needed when the blood or nerve supply of the tooth (called the ‘pulp') is infected through decay or injury.

Why is root canal treatment needed?
If the pulp becomes infected, the infection may spread through the root canal system of the tooth. This may eventually lead to an abscess. An abscess is an inflamed area in which pus collects and can cause swelling of the tissues around the tooth. The symptoms of an abscess can range from a dull ache to severe pain, and the tooth may be tender when you bite. If root canal treatment is not done, the infection will spread and the tooth may need to be taken out.

Does root canal treatment hurt?
No. Usually, a local anaesthetic is used and it should feel no different to having an ordinary filling done. There may be some tenderness afterwards but this should gradually get less over time.

What does it involve?
The aim of the treatment is to remove all the infection from the root canal. The root is then cleaned and filled to prevent any further infection.

What if it happens again?
Root canal treatment is usually very successful. However, if the infection comes back, the treatment can sometimes be repeated.

What if I don't have the treatment?
The alternative is to have the tooth out. Once the pulp is destroyed it can't heal, and it is not recommended to leave an infected tooth in the mouth.
Although some people would prefer to have the tooth out, it is usually best to keep as many natural teeth as possible.

Will the tooth be safe after treatment?
Yes. However, because a ‘dead' tooth is more brittle, you may need to have a crown to provide extra support and strength to the tooth.

Where is root canal treatment carried out?
Root canal treatment is a routine dental procedure, which your dentist will be happy to do for you.

How do I care for my tooth afterwards?
Root-treated teeth should be looked after just the same as any other tooth. Remember to clean your teeth last thing at night and at least one other time during the day, with a fluoride toothpaste. Cut down on sugary foods and drinks, and have them only at mealtimes if possible. See your dental team as often as they recommend for regular check-ups.

Description

The loss of your teeth can have a negative effect on your self-confidence, impact on your ability to chew food properly and also leave you with an incorrect bite.
People wear dentures to replace lost or missing teeth so they can enjoy a healthy diet and smile with confidence. Dentures are made of either acrylic (plastic) or metal. A ‘complete’ or ‘full’ denture is one which replaces all the natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. A ‘partial’ denture fills in the spaces left by lost or missing teeth.

Why should I wear dentures?
Full dentures, to replace all your own teeth, fit snugly over your gums. They will help you to eat comfortably and speak clearly, and will improve your confidence and self-esteem.
Partial dentures replace teeth that are missing, and can sometimes be supported by the teeth you have left. If you have gaps between your teeth, then your other teeth may move to take up some of the space, so you could end up with crooked or tilted teeth. This could affect the way you bite and could damage your other teeth.

How soon can I have a denture after my teeth are taken out?
Usually dentures can be fitted straight after your teeth have been removed. These are called ‘immediate dentures’. You will need to visit the dental team beforehand for them to take measurements and impressions of your mouth.
With immediate dentures you don’t have to be without teeth while your gums are healing. However, bone and gums can shrink over time, especially during the first six months after your teeth have been taken out. If your gums shrink, your immediate dentures may need relining, adjusting or even replacing. Your dental team will be able to talk to you about this.
Sometimes your dental team may advise you to wait until your gums are healed before having your dentures, as this can sometimes mean a better fit. Healing may take several months.

Who will make and fit my denture?
Parkwood Dental and Aesthetic Care dentist will take measurements and impressions of your mouth.

Will dentures make me look different?
Replacing lost or missing teeth is very good for your health and appearance. A complete or full denture replaces your natural teeth and gives support to your cheeks and lips. Without this support, sagging facial muscles can make a person look older and they will find it harder to eat and speak properly.
Dentures can be made to closely match your natural teeth so that your appearance hardly changes. Modern dentures may even improve the look of your smile and help to fill out the appearance of your face.

How do I take care of my dentures?
Dentures may break if you drop them. Always clean your dentures over a bowl of water or a folded towel in case you drop them.
To clean your dentures, the general rule is: brush and soak every day. Brush your dentures first, to help remove any bits of food. Use a non-abrasive denture cleaner, not toothpaste. Be careful not to scrub too hard as this may cause grooves in the surface.
Make sure you brush all the surfaces of the dentures, including the surface that fits against your gums. This is especially important if you use any kind of denture fixative.
Soak your dentures every day in a denture-cleaning solution. This will help remove any plaque and stubborn stains that are left. It will also help to disinfect your dentures, leaving them feeling fresher. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Don’t keep your dentures in overnight unless there are specific reasons for you to keep them in.
If you notice a build-up of stains or scale, have your denture cleaned by your dental team.

How long will my dentures last?
If you treat your dentures well, they should last several years. However, your dentures will need to be relined or re-made because of normal wear, or a change in the shape of your mouth. Bone and gum ridges can shrink, causing your jaws to meet differently. Loose dentures can cause discomfort, and health problems including sores and infections. A loose or badly fitting denture can also make eating and talking more difficult. It is important to replace worn or badly fitting dentures before they cause problems.

How often should I see my dentist?
Regular dental check-ups and having your teeth professionally cleaned are very important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Regular visits allow your dental team to check the soft parts of your mouth, including your tongue and cheeks. These examinations are important so that the dental team can spot any infections, mouth conditions or even mouth cancer at the earliest stages.
If you have a full denture, check with your dental team about how often you should visit. With regular professional care, a positive attitude and persistence, you can become one of the millions of people who wear their dentures with a smile.