Airpolisher - Why can this improve my dental health?

What is Air Polisher & why does Vere Dental provide it during almost all hygiene treatments?

Air polishing is an innovative treatment that can improve the look of your teeth and prevent disease in the mouth! It removes staining and plaque effectively!

What is plaque and how to get your plaque off your teeth?

Plaque biofilm is a combination of bacteria and other proteins which adhere to the tooth surface. These bacteria lead to diseases such as tooth decay and periodontitis (gum disease). The plaque is removed with effective toothbrushing at home and air polishing during your hygiene appointment for any areas you are missing.

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What is the Air Polisher technology?

It is a minimally invasive technique that uses a mixture of compressed air, fine powder, and water to remove external tooth staining (on the outside of your teeth) and harmful plaque bacteria. It can also be used safely on dental restorations such as implants, crowns, and bridges.

Air polishing provides a leading-edge treatment and significantly reduces time in the dental chair to remove staining and these harmful bacteria.

There is a small proportion of patients who air polishing may not be suitable for, your hygienist will carefully consider your medical history to create a tailored and bespoke treatment plan for you.

This article was written by Alexandra Ackerman and Amandine Beke

What causes staining?

Teeth staining can be caused by many things, most commonly, tea, coffee, red wine, smoking and chlorhexidine-based mouthwashes. 

Due to the powerful yet gentle nature of air polishing, stains can be removed in between the teeth which can be very difficult to remove with conventional methods.

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What does a dental hygienist do during the air polishing procedure at your hygienist appointment?

During the appointment, your hygienist will use the power of the powder, air, and water to remove the staining. They will do so at the start of the session. The air polisher is always followed by a tartar clean with water-based electrical instruments as well as hand instruments. 

At the end of your treatment the hygienist will polish your teeth with a fluoride based polishing paste to replenish your teeth.  

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Book in with our hygienist today for your hygiene appointment which includes air polishing as a standard.

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Composite bonding - Why do I see this everywhere?

What is composite?

There are many types of composites in the world. They can be found in the medical world, on construction sites, and even on planes!

In general, we define composite in the simplest way possible as a chain called a polymer which as been formed by attaching small molecules together called monomers. It is the type of monomer that will decide how the end composite will look like and what it can be used for. 

Compared to other dental materials, composites are easier to make and to merge together or even with other materials which makes them less invasive and more cost-effective too.

They are a little less strong and durable compared to other dental materials.

What is composite bonding?

Have you ever considered changing the shape of your teeth or making them whiter or make them look more aligned? Composite bonding or dental bonding could be an option to help achieve this wish. 

Composite bonding is a technique where the tooth is minimally reshaped before applying composite material to the tooth to change its shape. The composite is “glued”, which we call bonded to the tooth.

Tooth bonding can also be used to repair chipped teeth. 

What is the difference between composite bonding or composite veneers and porcelain veneers?

Composite is a more conservative alternative and shows acceptable long-term results compared to full porcelain veneers. 

Composite is versatile. This means that we can mould it and shape it to your specific wishes in the chair. 

Porcelain is made in a dental laboratory and needs 2 to 3 sessions to be finished. It is considered more durable but will also be less cost-effective.

Both options can be great choices but each needs to be assessed individually depending on the wishes, the teeth, and the situation the patient is in. 

Composite bonding stands out as a conservative alternative to porcelain veneers versus porcelain veneers stand out as a durable alternative to composite veneers.

Composite bonding benefits

  • Versatility: The composite material can be moulded and shaped to meet specific desires, giving you more control over the final appearance.
  • Minimal Enamel Damage: It is considered less invasive, preserving more of the natural tooth structure. It is considered less damaging to the enamel as the tooth needs less preparation than other dental materials. 
  • Quick and Convenient: Most composite bonding procedures can be completed in a single session, whereas other options can typically require at least two visits, spaced two weeks apart.
  • Cost-Effective: Composite bonding is generally more affordable than other options, making it accessible for more people.

Composite bonding disadvantages

  • Chipping: Because composite is added onto the tooth in small layers it has more risks to chip than other options. It is very important to keep the composite as clean as possible by brushing well and visiting the hygienist regularly.
  • Sleep: There may be a need for a nightguard to keep the tooth bonding safe at nighttime. 
  • Durability: On average, composite bonding will last less long than other options, however having it fixed is usually cheaper and easier than alternative treatments. We recommend an average of 3 to 10 years but with minimal fixings. 
  • Removal process: Although removable and less invasive, it is not easy to remove composite bonding and the dentist that placed the dental bonding, might need to refer you elsewhere to have them removed.  

Summary

  • Composite bonding stands out as a conservative alternative to porcelain veneers, offering great long-term results.
  • The composite material can be moulded and shaped to meet your specific desires.
  • It is considered a gentler option for your enamel.
  • Dental bonding is generally more affordable than other treatment options.

If you would like to see a Composite Bonding Before and After - click here

 

This article was written by Amandine Beke

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