Endodontics: Root Canal

Endodontics is a specialty of dentistry that deals specifically with the tooth pulp that surrounds the root of the tooth. The pulp is a soft substance in the center of the tooth that is the nucleus of the nerve, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When this pulp becomes infected, it will need to be removed; this is when a root canal is recommended. Allow our doctors at Vista Dental to explain more about this process.

In a fully developed tooth, the tooth can survive without the pulp because the tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it. Though the term “root canal” can sound scary, modern endodontic treatment is similar to a routine filling and is usually completed in two appointments. Living with infected tooth pulp is a lot more painful than the actual root canal. During the procedure, one of our doctors will apply a local anesthetic. Once the tooth is numb, a small incision will be made in the crown of the tooth and the pulp will be removed. After the space is cleaned, a rubber-like material is used to seal the root canals. In most cases, a temporary filling is then placed to close the opening. During your final visit, the temporary filling will be removed and a permanent crown will be placed to restore the tooth back to its full function.

If you have questions or concerns about a root canal, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.vistadentalmh.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Vista Dental located at 7 Strachan Bay SE, Medicine Hat, AB, T1B 4Y2, Canada, call 403-548-7077. 

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is a type of dentistry that focuses on smile enhancement. From subtle changes to major repairs, our doctors at Vista Dental can fix your smile imperfections with cosmetic dental services. Although cosmetic procedures are usually elective, rather than necessary, depending on the patient case they can provide restorative benefits. Allow us to explain a few of the cosmetic procedures we provide at our practice.

• Dental bonding – bonding is a tooth-colored material that is used to fill gaps or change the color of teeth. When teeth are chipped and slightly decayed, bonding can assist in fixing these issues. It can also be used as a filling for cavities.


• Veneers – Veneers are thin pieces of plastic porcelain that change the color or shape of your teeth. Veneers look exceptionally realistic and fix crooked or cracked teeth.


• Teeth whitening – The most popular of cosmetic procedures, teeth whitening or bleaching can make your teeth appear at least 3 shades whiter. We can provide you with take-home trays so that you can whiten in the comfort of your own home, or we can whiten your teeth right here in the office.

Our doctors can answer any questions about the following procedures. If you wish to schedule a consultation to discuss what is best for you, we are happy to assist you in this decision.

If you have questions about cosmetic dentistry, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.vistadentalmh.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Vista Dental located at 7 Strachan Bay SE, Medicine Hat, AB, T1B 4Y2, Canada, call 403-548-7077. 

How to Clean Dentures

Last week, we described the process of getting dentures. This week, we want Vista Dental patients to learn how to care for their new set of teeth. Although they will still need to brush regularly, there will be some major changes.

Natural teeth produce their own protective film. Since dentures do not have this, they are more vulnerable to being scratched by the minerals in ordinary toothpaste, which they do not need anyway. It is wise for patients to use two sets of soft-bristled toothbrushes; one for use on their mouths, and one to use on their dentures with toothpaste recommended by dentists specifically for that purpose. The entire denture needs to be scrubbed twice a day, and patients should brush their gums in the morning to stimulate blood flow.

Dentures need to be removed every night. During this time, they should be left soaking in room-temperature water or cleaning solution. Hot water could warp them, and patients should be careful handling them. If a denture does break, repairs should only be done by a professional.

Vista Dental is located at 7 Strachan Bay SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 403-548-7077 or visit VistaDentalMH.Ca.

 

Dentures

At Vista Dental in Medicine Hat, we provide our patients with many options for tooth replacements. While we recommend implants for replacing individual teeth when the patient has sufficient bone tissue, there are still many cases in which dentures are the best solution. But dentures come in many varieties and have improved since past decades, so we thought our patients would appreciate a run-down.

Dentures can either be a full-mouth restoration or only a replacement for front teeth. Partial dentures clasp onto reshaped natural teeth on either side. Placing full dentures requires the extraction of all the teeth in a jaw.

To ensure the dentures fit, impressions will be made of the patient’s mouth before any extractions or reshaping. In cases of full reconstruction, patients will be given immediate, temporary dentures to wear while their permanent ones are being manufactured in a dental laboratory. After a few months, they will have a second impression made to be used as the basis for their permanent dentures. This is done because the removal of tooth roots will cause their faces to change shape, and their permanent dentures will be refitted over the course of the patient’s life.

Vista Dental is located at 7 Strachan Bay SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 403-548-7077 or visit VistaDentalMH.Ca.