Case Studies
from Contemporary Smiles in Corrimal
Initial Situation
When this patient initially visited our practice, she was diagnosed with Bruxism, which is a condition where the patient grinds their teeth at night and during the day. This patient only had her front teeth remaining as she lost her back teeth for various reasons over the years.
The loss of her back teeth resulted in the increased level of force applied to the front teeth that accelerated the wearing process of the front teeth. The patient was unhappy with the appearance of her front teeth and the functionality of her removable dentures.
The Treatment Plan
The patient was provided with a treatment plan and all the necessary information to assist her in making a decision on the course of treatment. Dr Barry Phelan placed resin veneers to improve the size, shape and colour of the patients teeth.
Resin veneers are direct restorations meaning they are built up using a composite filling applied directly to the tooth. Natural teeth change colour as they transition from the neck of the tooth to the incisal edge. With modern composite resins we are able to recreate this variance in shade with differents tints and colours allowing us to recreate a more natural appearance.
The advantages of placing resin veneers include:
The conservation of the tooth structure. Generally we do not remove tooth to make space for the restorative material apart from minor bevelling so that we can blend the material into the underlying tooth
More cost effective
Completed in one session.
Some of the issues that arise when using resin veneers are:
Direct resin veneers tend to require more maintenance. For example, the high lustre that we have achieved in this case can fade with time causing the veneers to become dull
They can stain more readily than ceramic veneers or natural tooth. Excellent oral hygiene is required and heavy coffee, tea and red wine drinkers tend to have more issues with this form of treatment
Long term durability.
The Outcome
In this case the treatment plan included resin veneers as it was a more cost effective option. Once the treatment was completed we referred this patient to our local prosthetist, Mark Aitken, who is the owner and principal prosthetist at the Illarwarra Denture Clinic for denture fabrication to re- establish a functional back bite.
We also made this patient a night time splint to protect her veneers. Without this the chance of stable long-term outcome is low.
BOOK IN FOR A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
Book in for a FREE consultation with one of our dentists at our Corrimal Dental Clinic.Why choose Contemporary Smiles Dental?
At our practice in Corrimal, patients have access to a comprehensive range of dental treatments. We strive to provide state-of-the-art procedures, including dental implants, orthodontics, hygiene, cosmetic, and unique/bespoke services. Our team of highly skilled and experienced dentists works together to ensure our patients receive the care they need all in one place, without the need for referral to another clinic.
Why do regular dental visits matter?
The importance of routine dental check-ups lies in their ability to detect oral health issues at an early stage, making treatment simpler and more cost-effective. Preventive measures can also be taken to avoid the onset of oral problems. Additionally, certain diseases or medical conditions may manifest symptoms in the mouth, making regular visits to the dentist crucial.
How often do I have to go to the dentist?
Dental treatment is tailored to the individual, as every person's oral health needs are unique. The frequency of dental visits may vary, with some requiring only one or two visits a year, while others may require more. Your smile is unique, and your dental care should reflect that.
What should I look for when choosing a dentist?
It's advisable to consult multiple dentists before making a decision. Dental care is a personal service that relies on a strong relationship between dentist and patient. During your initial visit, you should be able to assess if the dentist is a good fit for you.
What are the early signs and symptoms of mouth cancer?
Mouth cancer can occur in various parts of the mouth including the lips, tongue and the throat. Sadly, mouth cancer has a high mortality rate due to late detection. However, there is hope as precancerous conditions can develop well before cancer and if detected early, can be effectively treated with a high chance of prevention or cure. Some common early signs of mouth cancer include:
- An ulcer or sore throat lasting more than three weeks.
- A white or red patch on the soft tissue, gums, tongue, or inner mouth.
- Chronic sore throat or hoarse voice for over six weeks.
- Difficulty swallowing or feeling of something stuck in the throat.
- Neck swelling lasting more than three weeks.
- Numbness of the tongue or other mouth area.
Is bad breath a sign of gum disease?
Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth can be a warning sign of gum disease and other oral issues, making it important to identify the cause. If you are experiencing persistent bad breath, schedule a visit with your dentist. Regular check-ups enable them to detect any underlying problems, as your bad breath may indicate a medical condition. If your dentist finds no oral health issues, they may refer you to a primary care physician.
Should I have my wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth removal is not always necessary, but in certain situations, their arrival can cause discomfort, swelling, or infection. The most frequent issue we encounter is the lack of sufficient space for the wisdom teeth to emerge, leading to the recommendation of extraction for impacted wisdom teeth.
How long will my implants last?
Your new teeth's lifespan depends on the quality of care you provide after the implant area has fully healed (typically 3-6 months) and the crowns have been properly fitted. Proper care, such as you would give to natural teeth, will ensure the longevity of your implants and they can last a lifetime.
How can you get in touch with us?
If you're located in the Illawarra and seeking any dental treatments, we welcome you to contact us for a consultation. We'd be happy to discuss your options with you.