Are you a reluctant patient?

Dental visits are not everyone’s favourite event. People often associate discomfort or pain with a trip to the dentist either from personal experience or general negative portrayal. Those times are long gone! Today’s advanced dentistry practices at TLC Dental are safe, effective and painless. Our latest form of anesthesia injection system, The Wand, is more precise and comfortable than any other traditional form of injection.

What are TLC Dental's Sterilisation Practices?

Your health and safety is extremely important. TLC Dental exercises a strict sterilisation policy throughout the practice. The Australian Dental Association awarded TLC Dental a commendation on our stringent sterilisation protocol. Our team is happy to answer your questions about sterilisation practices or infection control policy.

What are your Appointment Policies?

TLC Dental makes every effort to schedule your personal appointment at a convenient time for you. Should you need to change this appointment, please provide at least 48 hours if you notice you are unable to attend to avoid a fee. For emergency appointments call TLC Dental 02 8599 7107.

Can anything help my occasional bad breath?

Yes! Apart from what you had for dinner the night before, your oral health should be evaluated for several criteria. Visit our Fresh Breath Centre for details.

Does chewing gum help oral health?

Some sugar-free chewing gums contain Xylitol or Sorbitol which are cariostatic and help to prevent decay. The additional saliva generated from chewing the gum also increases the natural protection against tooth decay because saliva offers a natural buffer against the acid formed by bacteria. In addition, at TLC Dental, we recommend Recaldent chewing gum, only distributed by dentists to patients who present a high risk of decay.

Are mouth guards important?

Anyone playing sport or training can benefit from custom made, correctly fitted mouthguards to protect teeth against injury. Over the counter mouthguards do not offer the snug, comfortable fit that a custom mouthguard can nor can they offer an adequate level of protection. Talk to the TLC Dental team about creating a customized mouthguard for any sports enthusiast.

Is flossing important?

Flossing is essential to remove plaque from between your teeth where gum disease can begin. Follow these Basic Flossing Tips to look after your oral health.

Does the kind of tooth brush I use make a difference?

There is a wide range of manual and electric toothbrushes available. Dr Hoffenberg and his team of hygienists will advise you about the most appropriate tooth brush to use.

Is snoring related to my dental health?

Snoring is an annoying problem with several side effects. It can be disturbing for your partner; it disrupts your sleep and can also be a sign of high blood pressure or hypertension. Most importantly though it could be a warning that you suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) which could be life threatening. At TLC Dental we provide relief from snoring with the development of an appliance which can be worn at night to eliminate this debilitating condition. We also conduct assessments for OSA. If required, we will refer you to a sleep specialist for further investigation. Discuss your snoring problem with the TLC Dental Team.

How do you explain tooth grinding?

Uncontrolled tooth grinding (especially during sleep) can wear away teeth and cause unhealthy stress on the tooth structure. Causes for tooth grinding vary: daily tension is the most common trigger. The results if left unchecked can lead to all sorts of problems such as headaches, neckaches, problems with the jaw joint, sensitivity of the teeth, wearing down of the tooth surfaces resulting in a change in your bite and even cracked teeth. Often a Bite Splint is required to protect against this problem. Not only will you protect your teeth, you’ll alleviate discomfort associated with this ailment. Review your daily habits with a TLC Dental team member to get to the root of the problem and see what we can recommend.

How safe and reliable are implants?

Dental Implants are extremely safe and reliable and are an exceptional treatment option in many cases. Implants have a success rate of approximately 95%. Dental Implants provide a permanent solution to replacing single or multiple missing teeth. An implant is a titanium root which the natural bone fixes to, to provide a strong foundation onto which a natural-looking and functional crown is placed.

Is it painful to have an implant?

Almost everyone who has had to have an implant have had a tooth extracted prior to that and almost all say that having an implant is less painful and uncomfortable than having a tooth taken out. Believe us, it really does sound worse than it is.

How long does tooth whitening last?

Once the tooth whitening treatment has been completed you probably won’t have to have it done again. Teeth are porous and absorb stains and after a professional tooth whitening one normally uses tooth whitening trays at home for a few hours, usually every 4 – 6 months to touch up.

Is tooth whitening very sensitive?

This certainly is true for most tooth whitening systems because they contain heavy metals which attract water out of the tooth, thereby causing dehydration and because the active whitening agent, hydrogen peroxide has an acidic PH. However the Natural+ tooth whitening system that we use is unique. It has no heavy metals, so does not cause dehydration and the hydrogen peroxide has a netural PH, both of which which result in NO or at most very little sensitivity. It also contains natural materials, mostly extracted from the dead sea.

How Long Do Dental Bridges Last? A Guide to Bridge Longevity

Dental bridges are a popular dental solution for people who want to replace their missing teeth and restore function and aesthetics to their smiles. If you’re considering a dental bridge, you may be wondering about its longevity and what factors influence it. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the durability of dental bridges and provide tips on maximising their longevity, ensuring a lasting, healthy smile. TLC Dental is a trusted provider of high-quality dental bridge solutions, offering expert care and guidance to help patients achieve optimal oral health and long-lasting results.

Key Takeaways

Dental bridges typically last around 5-15 years, depending on material choice and maintenance.
Regular dental cleanings and check-ups help extend the bridge’s lifespan.
Proper oral hygiene, including specialised flossing techniques, protects the bridge and adjacent teeth.
Avoiding hard, sticky, and sugary foods can prevent damage and decay around the bridge.
Underlying dental conditions like periodontal disease can compromise bridge stability and longevity.

Unveiling the Dental Bridge: A Bridge to a Brighter Smile

Dental bridges are essential for those missing one or more teeth. They effectively bridge the gap and restore both function and aesthetics. They not only enhance the ability to chew and speak but also prevent remaining teeth from shifting, which can lead to more complex dental issues. TLC Dental offers expert dental bridge solutions, providing patients with a reliable and long-lasting option for replacing missing teeth and restoring their smiles.

The benefits of dental bridges extend beyond mere cosmetic enhancement, contributing significantly to oral health and stability.

Function and Benefits

A dental bridge effectively replaces missing teeth by anchoring to the adjacent healthy teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics. This restoration enables proper chewing, improves speech, and helps maintain the shape of the face. As a stable and enduring solution, dental bridges offer a significant advantage over removable dentures, providing comfort and convenience for the user.

Replaces Missing Teeth by Anchor

Dental bridges anchor to adjacent teeth to bridge the gap caused by missing teeth and restore function and aesthetics. The abutment teeth support the bridge, providing a stable, long-lasting solution.

Unlike dental implants, a dental bridge can be a quicker, more accessible option for many patients. It effectively fills the spaces left by lost teeth and is overseen by a dentist skilled in dental restorations.

Restores Chewing Function, Speech, and Facial Aesthetics

Beyond replacing missing teeth, dental bridges greatly enhance chewing function, speech clarity, and facial structure.

With proper care, dental bridges last many years, typically about ten years, though they can last approximately five to seven years with minimal maintenance.

This longevity supports a durable smile makeover, ensuring tooth restoration preserves dentistry’s aesthetics and functionality.

Offers a Fixed and Stable Alternative to Dentures

Dental bridges offer a fixed and stable alternative to dentures, providing a permanent solution that enhances dental function and aesthetics. Typically lasting five to seven years and often much longer, these porcelain prosthetics resist common issues like gum disease.

Clinics frequently use sedation and implants alongside veneers to guarantee comfort and durability. Understanding how long dental bridges last can help patients maintain their dental health for many years.

Factors Affecting Dental Bridge Lifespan

Several key factors can influence the longevity of dental bridges. These include:

The materials used in the construction of the bridge
The effectiveness of the patient’s oral hygiene practices
Their dietary choices and habits

Additionally, the presence of any underlying dental conditions is crucial in determining the lifespan of a dental bridge. TLC Dental’s skilled team ensures that each dental bridge is custom-designed to fit seamlessly with the patient’s natural teeth, providing optimal function and comfort.

Material Selection

Material selection is pivotal for determining the longevity of dental bridges. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) bridges balance durability and aesthetic appeal and are commonly preferred for their strength and natural appearance.

Alternatively, all-ceramic bridges are highly favoured for their superior cosmetic qualities, though they may differ regarding wear resistance compared to PFM bridges.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) bridges

Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) bridges are a popular choice due to their balance of durability and aesthetic appeal. These bridges combine a metal core with a porcelain exterior, providing a good compromise between strength and a natural look.

The metal framework guarantees the bridge can withstand biting forces, while the porcelain can match the colour of adjacent teeth, enhancing cosmetic results.

All-ceramic bridges

All-ceramic bridges, crafted entirely from ceramic materials, offer superior aesthetic quality by closely mimicking the translucency of natural teeth.

Though visually appealing, their durability can be less than that of metal-based bridges.

The absence of metal means they are also more biocompatible, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

Proper care and minimal stress on these bridges can extend their lifespan.

Oral Hygiene Practices

Oral hygiene practices extend the lifespan of dental bridges. Proper brushing and flossing around the bridge area prevent the build-up of plaque, which may result in gum disease and ultimately affect the bridge’s stability.

Additionally, regular dental cleanings help maintain the health of the supporting teeth and gums, ensuring the durability of the bridge.

Proper Brushing and Flossing

Proper brushing and flossing are critical to extending the lifespan of dental bridges by preventing decay and gum disease around the anchoring teeth. Thorough cleaning between the bridge and natural teeth minimises plaque build-up.

Meanwhile, using a floss threader or water flosser can help maintain these hard-to-reach areas, ensuring that the bridge and natural teeth remain healthy and prolonging the bridge’s functionality and aesthetics.

Regular Dental Cleanings

Regular dental cleanings maintain the integrity and longevity of dental bridges.

These sessions help remove plaque and tartar that can lead to gum disease, a major threat to the foundations supporting bridges.

Diet and Habits

Dietary choices and lifestyle habits greatly impact the longevity of a dental bridge. Consuming hard or sticky foods can stress the bridge, potentially causing damage or dislodgement. Foods high in sugar and acids may also contribute to dental decay around the bridge, undermining its stability.

Additionally, habits such as chewing or smoking tobacco can negatively affect the gum health surrounding the bridge, leading to potential complications. To enhance the lifespan of a dental bridge, it is advisable to have a balanced diet full of vitamins and minerals to support oral health and avoid habits that can compromise the bridge’s structural integrity.

Regularly consulting with a dental professional can also provide personalised advice tailored to individual dietary habits and lifestyle factors.

Underlying Dental Conditions

In addition to dietary and lifestyle factors, underlying dental conditions can greatly influence the durability and effectiveness of a dental bridge. Conditions such as bone loss in the jaw, tooth decay, or periodontal disease can compromise the support structures important for a bridge’s stability.

If these issues are not adequately managed, they can result in the premature failure of the dental appliance. Patients must maintain excellent oral hygiene and seek regular dental check-ups. These preventative measures help manage existing conditions and detect new issues early, extending a dental bridge’s lifespan.

Regular professional cleanings are also necessary to prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar, which exacerbate underlying conditions.

Maximising Dental Bridge Lifespan: Tips for Success

Adopting a thorough care strategy is essential to guaranteeing the longevity of dental bridges. This includes maintaining strict oral hygiene, being mindful of dietary choices, and addressing detrimental habits that could compromise the structure and health of the bridge. TLC Dental’s experienced team provides comprehensive guidance and support to help patients maximise the lifespan of their dental bridges, ensuring long-lasting, beautiful smiles.

Additionally, regular dental exams and cleanings are crucial in extending the life of dental bridges.

Meticulous Oral Hygiene

Maintaining meticulous oral hygiene is essential for extending the lifespan of dental bridges. Regular brushing and flossing around the bridge are important to avoid plaque build-up, which can lead to gum disease and subsequent bridge failure.

To avoid damaging the bridge, it is advisable to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Special flosses, such as superfloss or floss threaders, are designed to clean effectively under and around the bridge. An antiseptic mouthwash helps eliminate bacteria that contribute to decay and gum problems.

Regular dental exams and cleanings are also crucial. A dentist can spot and address potential issues before they escalate, prolonging your dental bridge’s function and appearance.

Dietary Awareness

After highlighting the importance of oral hygiene, it is equally vital to consider how dietary choices can impact the longevity of dental bridges. Foods that are excessively hard or sticky pose a risk to the structural integrity of bridges, potentially leading to damage or dislodgement. To protect your investment, it is advisable to avoid or minimise consumption of such items.

Additionally, sugary drinks and foods should be consumed sparingly. Frequent exposure to sugar can promote bacterial growth and decay, which may compromise the supporting teeth and, consequently, the bridge itself. Eating a diet consisting of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains will support oral health and overall well-being, thereby indirectly benefiting the durability of your dental bridge.

Addressing Bad Habits

One significant habit that can adversely affect the lifespan of dental bridges is the grinding of teeth, commonly known as bruxism.

To mitigate this, patients are often advised to use a nightguard, which protects both the bridge and the natural teeth from excessive wear.

Implementing this protective measure can considerably extend the durability and functionality of dental bridges, ensuring they perform at their best for as long as possible.

Grinding of Teeth and Nightguards

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, greatly undermines the durability of dental bridges, necessitating protective measures like nightguards.

Wearing a custom-fitted nightguard can greatly reduce the stress exerted on bridges during sleep, thereby preserving their structure and function.

Dentists recommend this preventive approach to patients with bruxism to extend the lifespan of their dental bridges and prevent potential damage.

Regular Dental Care

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential for extending the lifespan of dental bridges. Daily brushing and flossing prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar, which can compromise the bridge’s structural integrity.

It is particularly important to clean thoroughly around the bridge area to prevent food particles and bacteria from causing decay in the anchoring teeth. An antiseptic mouthwash helps reduce bacteria that could lead to gum disease, which is detrimental to dental bridges.

Interdental brushes and floss threaders are useful tools for cleaning hard-to-reach areas around the bridge, ensuring the gums and abutments remain healthy. This thorough routine greatly contributes to the durability and functionality of dental bridges.

Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups and Cleanings

To guarantee the longevity of your dental bridge, scheduling regular check-ups and cleanings is essential.

At TLC Dental, specialised care is provided to maintain the integrity of dental bridges.

These expert solutions help detect potential issues early, allowing for timely interventions that extend the life of your dental bridge.

TLC Dental Offers Expert Dental Bridge Solutions

Here at TLC Dental, we provide expert solutions, including regular check-ups and cleanings, to ensure your dental bridge lasts long.

Our dedicated team emphasises preventive care, helping extend your dental bridge’s life by addressing potential issues early.

Regular visits allow for adjustments and repairs, ensuring your bridge functions at its best.

Trust TLC Dental for thorough care tailored to maintain dental health and bridge durability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Dental Bridges Be Whitened Like Natural Teeth?

Dental bridges cannot be whitened like natural teeth because they are made from materials like porcelain or ceramics that do not respond to bleaching agents used in typical teeth whitening procedures.

Are There Alternatives to Dental Bridges for Missing Teeth?

Yes, alternatives to dental bridges include dental implants and removable partial dentures. Each option varies in cost, durability, and patient suitability, requiring consultation with a dental professional to determine the best choice.

Do Dental Bridges Affect Speech or Eating?

Dental bridges generally do not significantly affect speech or eating. Initially, some patients might experience minor adjustments in articulation or chewing, but these issues typically resolve as they adapt to the new dental appliance.

How Quickly Can I Get a Dental Bridge Fitted?

The time required to fit a dental bridge can vary, but it is typically two to three weeks. This period includes the initial consultation, preparation of teeth, and final placement of the custom-made bridge.

Is Having a Dental Bridge Installed Painful?

The installation of a dental bridge typically involves minimal pain. Most patients experience slight discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or local anaesthesia during the initial fitting and adjustment period.