Minimally Invasive Dentistry

Nothing beats nature, so why fight it ?

At Summit Dental we believe in a minimally invasive dentistry. Minimally invasive dentistry is an approach to dental treatment that focuses on conserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible while still achieving the desired results. This approach aims to preserve healthy tooth structure and minimize the need for extensive treatments, such as extractions, root canals, or crowns. By doing so, it reduces patient discomfort and promotes faster healing times, allowing patients to return to their normal routines more quickly.

This means that we dont treat unless its completely necessary and justified. Some cavities, in their earliest stages are actually reversible, and whenever possible we prefer to work with you to reverse caries rather than treat them. That’s right, reversible cavities! When treatment cannot be avoided, we work hard to maintain to maximum amount of natural dental tissue.

The advantages of minimally invasive dentistry are numerous. One of the most significant benefits is that in preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible, we can prevent future dental problems. This is especially important for patients with a history of dental issues.

Minimally invasive dentistry is different from older, outdated methods in several ways. For example, “traditional” dental procedures often involved the removal of significant amounts of healthy tooth structure to accommodate a metallic filling, crown, or other restoration. This approach often weakened the remaining tooth structure, increasing the risk of future problems and making it more likely that the tooth would need to be extracted.

In contrast, minimally invasive dentistry takes a conservative approach to treatment, preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible. This approach may involve the use of smaller, more precise tools and techniques.

Additionally, at Summit Dental we use only the latest in composite fillings, which can be placed directly onto the tooth surface without the need for extensive drilling or reshaping. This means all of our fillings are made to made to match the tooth natural color and aesthetic. No more unsightly metal!

If you are in need of dental care, consider exploring the benefits of minimally invasive dentistry at Summit Dental.

Fixed Prosthodontics

Fixed Prosthodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with restoration of teeth using veneers, crowns, bridges, onlays, inlays and dental implants. These are all restorations that made indirectly, or off site with the help of our partner dental laboratory.

The tooth or in some cases teeth are “prepared” by your Summit Dental dentist and an impression is made to capture this preparation which is then sent to the laboratory along with a detailed prescription.

The dental technician then fabricates the desired restoration. The finished product is then cemented in the mouth, restoring your natural and beautiful smile!

Crown

This is commonly referred as a ‘cap’ and covers part of or the complete tooth. Different materials can be used to make the crown depending on the requirements such as function/aesthetics, patient preference and the condition of the tooth.

Bridge

This is a dental restoration used to replace a ‘gap’ due to missing tooth/teeth. The adjacent tooth/teeth are used to hang the bridge. Several designs and materials are used for bridge fabrication depending on the size of the gap, aesthetics and function.

Removable Prosthodontics

Removable prosthodontics is concerned with a prosthesis that replaces the soft tissues and teeth and is more commonly referred to as dentures.

These can be replacing all of the missing teeth (Complete dentures) or maybe replacing some of the teeth (Partial dentures). Both of them can be replacing either the upper or lower jaw or both. They can be solely made of plastic (acrylic) or can be made of a combination of metal and plastic.

Fabrication of these prostheses can take up to six visits or more and involves both clinic and laboratory steps.

Implant-Supported Overdentures

Implant-supported overdentures are a type of dental prosthesis that are designed to provide a stable and secure option for people who have lost most or all of their teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which rely on suction or adhesives to stay in place, implant-supported overdentures are anchored to dental implants that are surgically placed in the jawbone. This provides a more stable foundation for the denture, which can improve overall comfort, function, and quality of life for patients.

Advantages of implant-supported overdentures:

Increased stability: The implants act as anchors for the denture, providing a stable foundation that helps to prevent slippage and movement.
Improved function: With increased stability, patients can enjoy better chewing and speaking ability, which can enhance their quality of life.
Potentially better oral health: Implants help to preserve the bone in the jaw, which can prevent further bone loss and deterioration.
Improved aesthetics: Implant-supported overdentures can be designed to look and feel more like natural teeth, which can boost self-esteem and confidence.

Disadvantages of implant-supported overdentures:

Cost: Implant-supported overdentures can be more expensive than traditional dentures due to the need for implant surgery and the cost of the implants themselves.
Surgical procedure: Implant surgery is a more invasive procedure than simply fitting traditional dentures, which can be a concern for some patients.
Time commitment: The process of getting implant-supported overdentures can take several months, from implant placement to the final fitting of the denture.

Who is a good candidate for implant-supported overdentures?

Patients who have lost most or all of their teeth and have sufficient bone density in the jaw are good candidates for implant-supported overdentures. Patients should also have good overall oral health and be willing to commit to a rigorous oral hygiene routine to maintain the health of their implants. There are also several medical considerations that need to be accounted for. At Summit Dental we will ask for a complete medical history to see if you are a good candidate.

Procedures involved in getting implant-supported overdentures:

Consultation: You will have an initial consultation at Summit Dental to determine if you are a good candidate for implant-supported overdentures.
Implant placement: If you are eligible for this treatment, we can then move ahead with implant placement.
Healing period: After the implants are placed, there will be a healing period of several months to allow the implants to “fuse” or osteointegrate with the jawbone.
Abutment placement: Once the implants have healed, abutments will be attached to the implants to serve as anchors for the denture.
Denture fabrication: The denture will be fabricated based on impressions and measurements of the patient’s mouth.
Fitting and adjustments: The final step is fitting the denture to the abutments and making any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.

Implant-supported overdentures are a great option for people who have lost most or all of their teeth and want a more stable and secure alternative to traditional dentures. With proper care and maintenance, implant-supported overdentures can provide improved function, comfort, and aesthetics for many years.

If this is a treatment option that interests you, don’t hesitate to call or book or book an appointment online for a first consultation with our expert team at Summit Dental!

Complete dentures

Complete dentures are a removable dental prosthesis designed to replace all of a patient’s missing teeth in either the upper or lower jaw or both. They are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth and are held in place with suction and the musculature in the cheeks and mouth. Complete dentures can be a good option for patients who have lost all of their natural teeth due to decay, injury, periodontitis or any other reason.

Advantages of complete dentures:

Improved appearance: Complete dentures can restore a patient’s smile and facial structure, improving their overall appearance.
Better speech: Dentures can help to improve speech and enunciation, especially for those who have lost teeth in their front or upper jaw.
Restored function: Dentures can restore the ability to eat and chew a wider variety of foods, which can improve overall nutrition and health.
Affordable: Complete dentures are generally less expensive than other tooth replacement options, such as dental implants or bridges.

Disadvantages of complete dentures:

Learning curve: It can take some time for patients to get used to wearing dentures and learning to speak and eat with them.
Potential discomfort: Some patients may experience discomfort or soreness during the initial adjustment period. If ever this is occurs, be sure to call us right away to schedule follow-up care!
Maintenance: Dentures require daily cleaning and maintenance to prevent bacteria buildup and prolong their lifespan.
Bone resorption: Over time, the bone in the jaw can deteriorate due to the absence of natural teeth, which can cause dentures to become loose and ill-fitting. This can be avoided by simply scheduling regular annual check-ups at Summit Dental!

Who is a good candidate for complete dentures?

Patients who have lost all of their natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, or both, are good candidates for complete dentures. Patients should have healthy gums and good overall oral health, as well as a commitment to proper denture care and maintenance.

Procedures involved in getting complete dentures:

Consultation: You need to begin with an initial consultation at Summit Dental to determine if complete dentures are the best option for you.
Impression-taking: Once the decision is made to proceed with dentures, we will take impressions of your mouth to create a custom mold.
Wax try-in: A wax model of the denture will be created to try in and ensure proper fit and comfort before finalising your dentures.
Final denture fabrication: Once the wax try-in is approved, the final denture will be fabricated and adjusted as needed to ensure a proper fit.
Post-fitting care: You will receive instructions on how to properly care for and maintain their dentures, as well as what to expect during the initial adjustment period.
We will ask you to come in once per year for a check up to make sure you are happy with your dentures!

The laboratory and dentist roles in creating complete dentures:

The dental technician plays a crucial role in the fabrication of complete dentures. After the impressions are taken by us at Summit Dental, the technician will create a custom mold of the patient’s mouth, which will be used to create the wax try-in model. The technician will also work closely with the dentist to ensure that the final denture fits properly and meets the patient’s specific needs.

As your dentist, we are responsible for determining if complete dentures are the best option for you, taking impressions, overseeing the wax try-in and final fabrication process, and providing post-fitting care and instructions. We work closely with the dental technician to ensure that the denture is fabricated to the patient’s exact specifications and needs.

Partial dentures

Partial dentures are a removable dental prosthesis designed to replace one or several missing teeth. Unlike complete dentures, which replace all of a patient’s missing teeth, partial dentures are used when there are still natural teeth present in the mouth. They are custom-made to fit your mouth perfectly and are held in place with clasps that attach to the remaining natural teeth, or in some cases, with dental implants.

Advantages of partial dentures:

Improved appearance: Partial dentures can restore your smile and improve facial structure, improving overall appearance.
Better speech: Dentures can help to improve speech and enunciation, especially if you have lost teeth in their front or upper jaw.
Restored function: Partial dentures can restore the ability to eat and chew a wider variety of foods, which can improve your overall nutrition and health.
Affordable: Partial dentures are generally less expensive than other tooth replacement options, such as dental implants or bridges.

Disadvantages of partial dentures:

Learning curve: Although generally easier than for complete denture wearers, it may still take some time to get used to wearing partial dentures and learning to speak and eat with them.
Potential discomfort: Some patients may experience discomfort or soreness in the gums or mouth during the initial adjustment period. If this is you, please call us right away and schedule an appointment so that we can make any required adjustments.
Maintenance: Dentures require daily cleaning and maintenance to prevent bacteria buildup and prolong their lifespan.

Who is a good candidate for partial dentures?

Patients who have one or several missing teeth and have healthy gums and good overall oral health are good candidates for partial dentures. Patients should also have a commitment to proper denture care and maintenance.

Procedures involved in getting partial dentures:

Consultation: You will need to begin with an initial consultation at Summit Dental to determine if partial dentures are the best option for your specific needs.
Initial Impression-taking: Once the decision is made to proceed with dentures, we will take impressions of your mouth to create a custom impression tray
Retouches and Final Impression: In some cases we make have to slightly mark your teeth in non-aesthetic areas to create retention for the final prosthesis. This is done quickly and usually without the need anaesthesia. We can then take impressions with a personalised impression tray.
Wax try-in: A wax model of the denture will be created for you to try in and ensure proper fit and comfort.

5. Final denture fabrication: Once the wax try-in is approved, the final denture will be fabricated and adjusted as needed to ensure a proper fit.

6. Post-fitting care: You will receive instructions on how to properly care for and maintain your new partial dentures, as well as what to expect during the initial adjustment period.

7. We will also ask you to come back and see us once per year for a check up. This is essential to maintaining the good position of your partial denture and to ensuring the health of your natural teeth.

The laboratory and dentist roles in creating partial dentures:

The laboratory technician plays a crucial role in the fabrication of partial dentures. After the impressions are taken, the technician will create a custom mold of the patient’s mouth, which will be used to create the wax try-in model. The technician will also work closely with the us to ensure that the final denture fits properly and meets the patient’s specific needs.

At Summit Dental, your dentist is responsible for determining if partial dentures are the best option for you, taking impressions, overseeing the wax try-in and final fabrication process, and providing post-fitting care and instructions. We also work closely with the dental laboratory technician to ensure that the denture is fabricated to your exact specifications and needs.

Periodontics

Our gums have such an important role to play in our lives. They are the foundation that support our teeth and give us a beautiful smile. They help us to speak clearly and they also give our face its shape and contribute to our appearance, self esteem and personal confidence.

Gum disease may be confusing for many people because in the vast majority of cases it doesn’t cause any pain. It is our role as your dentist or hygienist to identify and treat gum disease and support you in healing and in health.

Don’t overlook these silent indicators of disease.

Signs Of Gum Disease

Bleeding Gums
Bitter Taste
Receding Gums
Loose Teeth
Change in tooth alignment
Bad Breath (halitosis)

Please beware, for many patients, gum disease may present little to no clinical signs. It is necessary to have an exam in order to have a diagnosis, but don’t worry, we automatically include a gum health exam with all dental exams or hygienist appointments!

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a common form of gum disease that is characterized by inflammation and redness of the gums. It is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gum line. Gingivitis can have many negative effects on oral health, including bad breath and inflamed gums. There is a link between gum disease and other health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. This is because the bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, potentially causing inflammation and other health problems. Therefore, it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups and cleanings to prevent gingivitis and maintain good overall oral health. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease that can cause serious damage to the gums and bone that supports the teeth. It is an inflammatory disease that is caused by the oral bacteria. It occurs when the inflammation and infection that characterizes gingivitis spreads beneath the gum line and causes the formation of pockets between the gums and teeth. These pockets are infected and lead to further damage and deterioration of the gums and bone. Over time, periodontitis can cause teeth to become loose and eventually even fall out. Symptoms of periodontitis include bleeding gums, bad breath, receding gums, and tooth sensitivity, but it is very often asymptomatic, and you may not feel anything at all. Treatment for periodontitis involves a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing, and in more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue and promote healing. It is important to seek treatment promptly to prevent further damage and maintain good oral health.

Treatment of Periodontitis

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical deep cleaning procedure used to treat gum disease. It is also known as “deep cleaning” because it involves removing the buildup of plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gum line. During the procedure, the dentist or dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove the tartar and plaque from the tooth surfaces and the roots of the teeth. They will also smooth out any rough areas on the roots to help prevent future buildup. The goal of scaling and root planing is to remove the bacteria and toxins that cause gum disease and promote healing of the gums. In some cases, the dentist may also use an antimicrobial agent or antibiotics to help control the infection. The procedure may be done in one visit or multiple visits depending on the severity of the gum disease. Following scaling and root planing, patients should practice good oral hygiene habits and attend regular dental check-ups to maintain healthy gums.

Gum disease and Pregnancy

There is a significant link between periodontitis and pregnancy, as pregnant women are more susceptible to developing gum disease due to hormonal changes in their body. Studies have shown that women with periodontitis are at a higher risk of delivering premature or low-birth-weight babies. This is because the bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation and the release of certain chemicals that can cause contractions and early delivery.

Pregnant women are also particularly susceptible to gingival hyperplasia due to the hormonal changes in their body. The increase in hormones, particularly progesterone, can cause the gums to become more sensitive and easily irritated, leading to inflammation and overgrowth of the gum tissue. If left untreated, gingival hyperplasia can cause discomfort, difficulty in chewing and speaking, and an increased risk of further gum damage.

It is important for pregnant women to practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups and cleanings to prevent and treat gum disease.

Gingival Hyperplasia

Gingival hyperplasia, also known as gingival overgrowth, is a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in the size of the gum tissue. This can be caused by several factors, including genetics, medications, poor oral hygiene, hormonal changes, and systemic diseases. The overgrowth of the gum tissue can make it difficult to clean the teeth properly, leading to an increased risk of gum disease, decay, and tooth loss. The condition can also cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty in speaking and chewing. Treatment for gingival hyperplasia depends on the underlying cause, and may include a thorough cleaning of the teeth, adjustments to medications, or surgical removal of excess gum tissue. Patients with gingival hyperplasia should practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and attending regular dental check-ups to prevent and manage the condition.

Periodontal Microsurgery

In certain rare cases, periodontal therapy may require a microsurgery procedure. You can click here to learn more.

Endodontics

What is a root canal?

Endodontic treatment, also known as a root canal, is a procedure used to save and repair a badly infected or decayed tooth. The need for a root canal treatment usually stems from infected or inflamed tooth pulp. The nerve and pulp of a tooth can become irritated as a result of cracks, chips, or other trauma to the tooth. If this occurs, it is important to treat it as it can lead to an abscessed tooth. An infection can also cause bone loss around the root’s tip as well as swelling to other areas.

Root canal treatments are very common. In fact, every year millions of teeth are saved thanks to this procedure. The process can relieve pain to restore the function and appearance of the affected tooth.

The use of root canal treatments can restore a natural appearance, normal bite, and efficient chewing while also protecting the other teeth from damage caused as a consequence of the original problem. Best of all, it is a treatment type that removes the need for removing the tooth and using a prosthetic or false tooth. Root canals can be used on multiple teeth, although each tooth requires its own treatment. As long as the patient follows a positive dental hygiene routine following the treatment, the benefits can last for many years.

When is a root canal necessary?

In order to determine if a root canal is necessary, your dentist at Summit Dental will do a thorough examination. During that appointment, we will be able to determine if it is necessary or not.

Here are a few of the signs that may signal a root canal is necessary:

Tooth pain caused by chewing or the application of pressure
Increased sensitivity to heat and cold
Tooth discoloration
Swelling in the surrounding gums

It is important to understand that in some cases, there may be no obvious symptoms. Root canal treatments can be used to save teeth that are affected by infection, inflammation, or an abscess.

When root canal treatments are deemed essential (or the most suitable solution), it’s imperative that you take quick action as leaving the issue untreated can allow the damage to escalate while also causing damage to the surrounding teeth. The pain and discomfort will continue to worsen until the issue is fixed.

The benefits of root canals

Root canal treatments aren’t only crucial for preventing further damage. Their impact on your daily life can be hugely influential.

Some of the biggest rewards include;

Removing the pain will allow you to enjoy life without distractions
You will have a happier and friendlier appearance
Communicating without pain will be possible
You can eat in a normal manner, removing social anxiety
Remove the need for pain relief medication

What does a root canal procedure involve?

First, a patient must have x-rays taken in order to see what the infection looks like. From there, the patient will be numbed through a local anesthesia. Throughout the procedure, the dentist uses a rubber dam to keep the area around the tooth dryand clean. The dentist can begin removing debris from the tooth and decayed nerve tissue. Once it is all removed, the tooth is flushed out, filled, cleaned, and sealed.

The tooth’s pulp is found underneath the enamel and dentin layer, and can be completely flushed out and removed without fear of losing the tooth. This is because a fully developed tooth continues to gain nourishment via the surrounding tissues. After the pulp is removed, the material used to fill the gap is a polymer prepared from latex from the percha tree while a special sealing cement is used to plug the hole and prevent bacteria or other debris from penetrating into the tooth.

Most treatments are completed in 1-2 appointments, with the first being used to assess the situation and make the necessary preparations to provide a personalized treatment built around the individual circumstances, extending to the overall oral health of the patient as well as the tooth itself. The second appointment is where the drilling, cleaning, filling, and sealing process occurs.

Surgical Endodontics

In certain rare cases, endodontal therapy may require a microsurgery procedure. You can click here to learn more.