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  • Cracked Amalgam Filling

The Problem

The patient presented with sensitivity when biting and discomfort from cold drinks. On examination, we found that their longstanding amalgam restoration had fractured. This crack was beginning to compromise the tooth and allowed irritation of the underlying structure, leading to the symptoms they were experiencing.

Our Approach

Further testing confirmed that the tooth was still vital, meaning the nerve remained healthy. We discussed treatment options with the patient, outlining a short- to medium-term solution using a large tooth-coloured restoration, as well as a longer-term protective option: a porcelain crown.

 

After reviewing the benefits of each approach, the patient chose to proceed with a crown to provide the best long-term strength and stability. Once the existing amalgam was removed, a crack was observed on the back of the tooth, confirming that a crown was the most appropriate choice to protect the remaining tooth structure

The Result

For back teeth, we prefer lab-made zirconia crowns due to their high strength and superior fit compared with chairside options. All our crowns are crafted locally by Toothworx, whose quality and precision we trust.

The custom-made zirconia crown was fitted securely, restoring full function and a natural appearance. The tooth is now well protected from further cracking, and the patient can bite and chew comfortably again

Faq's

As a family-owned and operated practice, we occasionally take time away for holidays and family commitments. During these times, our phones and emails may not be monitored, and we understand how stressful a dental emergency can be.

If you have an urgent dental issue outside our normal hours or while we’re away, you can find an emergency or after-hours dentist through the Australian Dental Association (SA Branch) website:
www.sa.ada.org.au/after-hours-and-emergency-dentists

They maintain an up-to-date list of practices across South Australia that can assist with urgent care when your regular dentist is unavailable.

We look forward to helping you again once we’re back in the clinic and hope you’re comfortable until then.

Two options exist for maintaining your new straight smile. The first is a bonded wire placed discreetly on the back of the teeth, and the second is routine use of clear removable retainers. Both are effective, and we will help you choose which option is right for you.
Gum disease treatment requires lifelong maintenance following the initial procedure. We’ll provide you with the tools and techniques for effective cleaning at home, along with regular professional maintenance cleanings up to four times per year. Additionally, we measure your gum health annually to ensure your smile stays on track.
Dental implants have the best chance of success if the bone is given time to bond with the implant before adding the new tooth. The minimum time we recommend is three months. If the tooth has been recently extracted, the bone may require an additional 2-3 months to heal prior to implant placement.
We keep emergency appointments open each day to help patients in need of urgent care. Please call us directly at 8366 2221 if you are unable to book an appointment online, and we will help assess the problem and get you an appointment as quickly as possible.
Dental cavities often cause no pain until the problem is quite advanced. We prefer to see patients early to avoid more significant treatment down the road. We are more than happy to examine the area, even if there ends up being no issue, to provide you with peace of mind.
We typically see young children from about two years of age, as this is when they can usually sit on a parent’s lap and allow us to examine their teeth. However, we’re happy to see children of any age if you have concerns or questions regarding their development.
This varies based on age, temperament, and previous dental experiences. We assess how your child might respond during the initial exam and cleaning. We believe that a young child’s first dental experience should be positive, so if we think treatment might cause stress, we may recommend treatment under light sedation with a trusted paediatric specialist.
Nightguards act as a barrier to prevent your teeth from grinding together while you sleep. As long as your nightguard fits comfortably and isn’t fractured, it can still be used. People typically replace nightguards if they break or become stained over time. Replacement every 2-3 years is common, depending on the level of grinding. Also, please keep nightguards out of pets’ reach, as they are often a favourite chew toy for dogs!
Before providing a cleaning, we need to ensure your teeth are healthy and that there’s a plan to prevent future issues. For this reason, a full exam and recent X-rays are required before scheduling a cleaning.

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Christmas Hours

Thankyou everyone for your support this year and we wish you all a Merry Christmas and happy new year!

We we be taking a break for for a family holiday starting  December 23, 2024, to January 2, 2025.

If you have a dental emergency over the break North Adelaide Dental Care will be open and can be contacted on (08) 8267 1894