Preventive Care
Modern dentistry chiefly focuses on prevention of disease and on minimal intervention. We essentially do everything possible to conserve your natural teeth by identifying small, easily treatable cavities utilising regular examinations and x-rays.
We also aim to prevent gum disease with hygiene care (often referred to as a scale and clean) and utilising fluoride treatment to repair and strengthen the teeth.
Fissure sealants are another preventive treatment option. They are useful for situations where there are deep crevices (fissures) which are likely to trap bacteria (plaque) particularly in children who struggle to brush these areas. The sealant essentially fills the crevices to create a smooth, easily cleaned surface thus reducing the risk of plaque deposits leading to cavities.
Periodontal Disease.
At Dental 187 Fullarton we recognize the importance of healthy teeth and healthy gums. Gum, or periodontal disease is often asymptomatic and is a common cause of tooth loss in adults. The diagnosis and management of gum disease is often carried out with the help of dental hygienists, however specialist treatment may be required in more severe cases.
Restorative Treatment
There have been many advances in modern dentistry providing us with a number of ways in which we can restore decayed, damaged or lost teeth. Using the latest materials and technologies we can offer treatment options that are long lasting and aesthetically pleasing.
Crowns, Bridges and Implants
For teeth that are missing, cracked or heavily filled we offer crowns (a single tooth “cap”), bridges (a number of crowns joined together to replace a missing tooth and implants (a single tooth to replace a missing tooth). All laboratory work is fabricated locally in Adelaide using the highest quality materials.
Endodontic Treatment
Endodontic or root canal treatment may be required for cracked or fractured teeth as well as teeth causing significant pain. These situations often present as an emergency. At Dental 187 Fullarton we aim to provide you with an appointment usually that same day for assessment and management of the pain.
Dentures
At Dental 187 Fullarton we offer partial dentures in a variety of different materials. For full dentures and for all urgent denture repairs we recommend Peter Rodda at Rodda Dental.
Cosmetic Tooth Whitening.
At Dental 187 Fullarton we offer a range of options for cosmetic tooth whitening. A consultation appointment is usually required to determine the suitability and type of cosmetic whitening procedure that will produce the most successful results.
ALIGNERS
Aligners are a series of transparent, custom-made plastic trays that fit tightly on the teeth. When they go into position, they press the teeth gently to move them gradually into position. Clear aligners are a modern and near invisible method for correcting mild to moderate orthodontic problems. They are comfortable to wear, easy to remove and very discreet.
Children
Our staff here at Dental 187 Fullarton welcome children of all ages. Dental care and education begin before the birth of the child and covers a range of areas such as care of new teeth, feeding, diet, teething, normal development, habits (thumb sucking, dummies etc) and many other topics.
Mouthguards
Dental injuries as a result of contact sports are completely preventable by the use of a custom fitted laminated mouthguard.
Mouthguards help prevent injuries to the lips, teeth and tongue as well as reducing concussion injuries caused by the lower jaw impacting on the base of the skull.
Teeth Grinding or Clenching
Bruxism or tooth grinding/clenching generally occurs whilst asleep and, although common, is abnormal in oral health.
Tooth grinding or clenching can lead to headaches as well as muscular head and neck pain and stress on the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint or TMJ).
Many patients are unaware that they are doing this, however it does lead to tooth sensitivity, cracked and broken teeth, cracked fillings and excessive tooth wear. If a diagnosis of bruxism or clenching is made, we can try conservative measures and facial muscle exercises.
Wearing a nightguard (also called an occlusal splint) may also be recommended. This is worn on your top teeth and prevents excessive forces on the teeth and jaws.
Sleep Apnoea
If you have received a diagnosis of sleep apnoea from your GP and don’t wish to use a CPAP machine, we can construct a mandibular advancement device as a simple option that will be suitable for most sufferers.