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.

Tooth Cap Vs. Crown: Understanding Your Dental Restoration Options

In dental restoration, distinguishing between tooth caps and crowns is essential for making informed decisions about oral health. Both options serve distinct purposes, with tooth caps providing surface coverage and crowns offering thorough protection. Understanding the nuances between these treatments can greatly impact the longevity and functionality of dental restorations. Exploring the intricacies of tooth caps versus crowns can shed light on the best choice for a personalized approach to dental care, ensuring excellent outcomes in maintaining a healthy smile.

Key Differences Between Tooth Cap and Crown

When comparing tooth caps and dental crowns, it is important to understand the subtle nuances between these two dental restoration options. The key differences lie in the materials used and the extent of coverage they provide for the teeth.

Dental crowns, also known as dental caps, are prosthetic coverings that encase the entire visible portion of a tooth, offering protection and structural support. They can be made from various materials such as ceramic, metal, or a combination of both, catering to individual needs and aesthetic preferences.

On the other hand, tooth caps are ceramic coverings that are bonded to the surface of the tooth to improve its appearance or provide minor protection. While both options contribute to dental health by restoring the function and aesthetics of damaged teeth, consulting with a dentist is essential to determine the most suitable choice based on each case’s specific requirements.

Pros and Cons of Dental Crowns

When evaluating tooth caps and dental crowns, it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of dental crowns.

Pros:

Provide strong structural support to a damaged tooth.
Enhance the overall health of the tooth by protecting it from further decay.
Offer a long-lasting solution compared to fillings.
It can be made from various materials, such as ceramic, metal, or porcelain, providing options for durability and aesthetics.
Help restore the tooth’s natural shape and function effectively.

Cons:

The process of getting a crown may require multiple dental visits.
Some tooth structure needs to be removed to accommodate the crown.
Crowns made from metal may not be as aesthetically pleasing as ceramic or porcelain crowns.
The cost of dental crowns can be higher compared to other dental restorations.
In rare cases, the crown may cause sensitivity or discomfort.

Materials Used in Dental Restorations

Various materials are utilized in dental restorations to create crowns and tooth caps that cater to both durability and aesthetic preferences. When it comes to dental crowns and caps, the materials used play a vital role in determining the overall quality and longevity of the restoration. Common materials include metals, ceramics, and porcelain.

Metal crowns, such as gold or silver, are known for their strength and durability, making them popular for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces. On the other hand, ceramic crowns provide a more natural look as they can be color-matched to the surrounding teeth, making them ideal for front teeth restorations. Porcelain crowns balance aesthetics and durability, mimicking the appearance of natural teeth while providing sufficient strength for everyday use.

When recommending the most suitable material for your dental prosthetic structure, your dentist will consider factors such as your oral health, personal preferences, and budget.

When to Choose a Tooth Cap

Utilizing a tooth cap as a dental restoration option may be recommended by your dentist in cases where a partial covering of the tooth is sufficient for addressing structural concerns or aesthetic improvements. When considering a toothcap, here are some situations in which it may be the preferred choice:

Structural Damage: Tooth caps are suitable for teeth with minor structural damage that doesn’t require a full dental crown.
Aesthetic Enhancements: If you want to improve the appearance of your teeth, tooth caps are a less invasive option than full crowns.
Children’s Dentistry: In pediatric dentistry, tooth caps are commonly used to address issues in children’s teeth, providing a protective and durable solution.
Preventing Tooth Removal: Tooth caps can strengthen and protect the existing tooth structure, helping to prevent tooth removal.
Convenient Clinic Visits: Getting a tooth cap is typically quicker and requires fewer clinic visits than getting a full dental crown.

Maintaining Dental Crowns and Caps

Proper maintenance of dental crowns and caps is essential to guarantee their longevity and effectiveness in preserving tooth structure and oral health. Whether it is a crown or cap, there’s no difference in the need for regular care to secure their durability. It is important to follow the advice of dental staff regarding the care of your dental restoration. Regular check-ups with the dentist allow for assessing the crown or cap’s condition and any necessary adjustments or repairs.

It is crucial to read and follow any specific instructions your dentist gives regarding maintaining your dental crown or cap. Good oral hygiene practices at home, such as regular brushing and flossing, are key to maintaining the health of the crowned tooth. Avoiding habits that may damage the crown, such as biting on hard objects, is also recommended.

In Australia (AU), dental crowns and caps can be made from materials like metal, ceramic, or porcelain. Visiting the dental clinic for professional cleanings and care can further enhance the longevity of your dental restoration.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the differences between tooth caps and crowns is essential when considering dental restoration options. While tooth caps provide minor protection and aesthetic improvements, crowns offer strong structural support and long-lasting benefits. Both options are important in maintaining oral health and restoring natural tooth function. Consulting with a dentist to determine the best solution based on individual needs is recommended for excellent dental care.

Dental Restoration Options