General Dentistry

Sarina Dental Care provides general dentistry services to clients of all ages, from toddlers to the elderly. No matter what age you are, our qualified dentists perform personalised services to ensure a bright, pain-free smile. General and preventative check-ups are recommended every six months to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

In addition to a comprehensive check of oral cavities, jaws and TMJ's; our dentists also perform a whole range of dental treatments as mentioned below. We use the best quality products and evidence based treatments and procedures to take care of you.

Cosmetic Dentistry

If you dream of a straight, white smile, ask the friendly team at Sarina Dental Care about the range of cosmetic dentistry services. The dental team can provide crowns and bridges, use white fillings or apply veneers to help achieve the smile you have wished for.

Whitening

Tooth whitening has become one of the most popular ways to improve your smile by lightening the existing shade of your natural teeth. This is a simple and effective treatment which can be carried out by your dentist or at home. Tooth whitening is non-invasive treatment which does not involve drilling or removal of the tooth surface.

There are many reasons why your teeth can become discoloured

• Drinking tea, coffee or red wine
• Food with strong colourings
• Smoking
• The natural process of ageing
• A tooth which is damaged by trauma
• Some teeth are naturally pigmented or stained as they develop
• Certain medications

Only natural teeth respond to tooth whitening, Crowns, Bridges, Dentures or Implants cannot be whitened

For further information a quick appointment can be made with your preferred Dentist.

We offer Zoom in house and take home "do-it-yourself" kits.

Invisalign

Invisalign is the modern way to get the beautiful straight teeth you've always wanted - without conventional braces. Schedule a consultation with our team so we can determine if Invisalign is right for you.

Lumineers & Componeers

A veneer is a thin layer of material placed over a tooth, either to improve the aesthetics of the tooth or to protect the tooth's surface from damage. A dentist may use one veneer to restore a single tooth that may have been fractured or discoloured, or multiple teeth to create a "Hollywood" type of makeover. Some people may have small teeth, resulting in spaces that may not be easily closed by orthodontics or there can be worn away edges of their teeth resulting in a prematurely aged appearance. Others may have malpositioned teeth that appear crooked. Multiple veneers can close these spaces, or lengthen teeth that have been shortened by wear. A Veneer can provide a uniform colour, shape, and symmetry, and make the teeth appear straight.

Lumineers are unique in that they are ultra-thin (approximately 0.2mm) and highly translucent, allowing them to replicate the natural appearance of enamel. Lumineers are so thin that little to no tooth reduction is necessary. Additionally, the durability of Lumineers allows them to resist wear and remain resilient to last. Lumineers are painlessly applied without drilling of sensitive tooth structure.

In addition, we also provide:

• Minor oral surgery with lasers
• Teeth whitening (in-house or take home kits)
• Orthpantomography (OPG)

Lasers

Lasers can be used for a wide range of dental procedures. In some cases they completely replace the conventional treatment and for other procedures they are used to compliment the existing treatment. In all cases, lasers can achieve better results.

Minor surgery performed with dental lasers will heal more quickly than conventional treatments. After a laser procedure, the treated area is left sterilised and sealed and is advanced in the healing process compared to conventional treatments.

Your laser dentist can tell you more about the various treatment options available with dental lasers.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are to replace a missing tooth or teeth.

An implant consists of a titanium rod, which is placed directly into the jaw bone and acts as a replacement for the root portion or the natural tooth.

The implant is made using pure titanium, which allows new bone cells to grow around it: the implant then integrates with the newly formed bone which firmly locks it into place.

A dental implant can be used to replace:

Family Dentistry

Fillings

Silver-amalgam fillings can be removed and replaced with tooth coloured resin if needed.

Snap-on Smile

Snap-on Smile is a patented, easy and painless way to obtain a beautiful smile.

It was invented by a dentist who realised that not everyone can afford thousands of dollars to get a Hollywood smile make-over.

After years of extensive research and development, your dentist can now provide you with a Snap-on Smile that is thin and strong with the look of natural teeth. You can eat and drink with your Snap-on Smile. It's easy to care for and can be a temporary or permanent cosmetic solution. It is available for upper and lower teeth.

White fillings - Composite

Fillings are the most common type of 'restorative treatment'.

A filling replaces the part of the tooth that has been lost as decay has caused a cavity in the tooth or because the tooth has been broken.

One option in restoring the tooth is to have a white filling, commonly known as a 'Composite filling'.

• One tooth - one implant will be placed, a crown will then be fixed on top of the implant
• An implant consists of a titanium component which is placed directly into the jaw bone and acts as a replacement for the root portion of the natural tooth.
• All the teeth - a number of implants are placed, then either a fixed bridge will be fitted onto the implants or the implants will be used to firmly hold a removable, full upper and lower denture.

Oral Hygiene

In order to keep your gums healthy, you need to remove the daily build up of plaque from all the surfaces of your teeth by - Brushing your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time. Ask your dentist which type of toothbrush is best for you, as many of us use brushes that are too hard or too large.

• Floss your teeth, as a toothbrush doesn't always reach into the gaps in between the teeth or below the gum line.
• Do not brush your teeth too hard as this can damage your gums, ask your dentist to show you the correct technique.
• Use fluoride toothpaste.

Healthy gums are -

• Pink in colour
• Have no areas of redness or inflammation
• Do not bleed when brushing or flossing
• Have no tenderness or discomfort

If the daily build up of plaque is not removed, this can lead to the first stages of gum disease 'Gingivitis'.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is caused by sticky bacteria which are known as 'plaque'. Plaque collects in the small gaps between the gums and the teeth and if not removed by regular brushing and flossing, will multiply by feeding on sugars found in your food and drink. This can lead to -

• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Soreness or discomfort
• Gums appearing red in colour, puffy or swollen

Bleeding when brushing or flossing your teeth is the earliest and most common sign of gingivitis. Gingivitis is reversible if treated by a hygienist or by improved brushing and flossing techniques. However, if left untreated you will develop the later stages of gum disease, which is known as 'Periodontal Disease'.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal Disease is the later stages of gum disease. This is when the bacteria infection under the gums progresses deeper and effects the bone and tissue supporting the tooth.

Your gums will -

• Bleed when brushing or flossing
• Be red, swollen and tender
• Contribute to bad breath
• The gum will have pulled away from the tooth, this is called 'Pocketing'
• Pus may be seen in the pockets around the tooth.

The infection damages the tissue that connects the gum to the roots of the tooth. Once the tissue has been destroyed the gum pulls away from the tooth, this forms a pocket which bacteria thrive in. If not treated, in time the bone anchoring the teeth in the jaw will dissolve, making the teeth loose and eventually the teeth will fall out.

Periodontal disease is irreversible, but you can slow down the progression by regular visits to the Dentist and Hygienist, as well as improving your oral hygiene at home.

Oral Hygiene Instructions

Using a soft tooth brush Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, & floss at least once a day. Two equally important reasons why we brush & floss:
To clean away debris which bacteria can break down to produce acid by-products, which lead to decay.
To clean away plaque from teeth; if plaque is not removed, an immune response in gums to bacteria in plaque can cause inflammation that if not controlled can lead to periodontal disease.
For further advise/instructions please see any of our Dentists for a demonstration.

Diet Analysis & Advice

The frequent consumption of sugar containing fizzy drinks not only put teeth at risk to decay but can also cause erosion of the enamel. This is due to their acidic content (see Tooth Wear for more details). Fruit juices are an important source of vitamins in the diet. However, they should be taken with meals for two reasons. The frequent consumption of these can lead to enamel erosion and although pure juices may not contain sucrose they are rich in fructose and can also be cariogenic. Loss of natural teeth is associated with poor nutritional status. Please make an appointment where we can explain further Dietary Advice.

We can provide referrals for

• Specialists
• Orthodontists
• Oral Surgeon
• Periodontitis
• Sleep Specialists

Bridges

A bridge is an option used to replace one or more missing teeth.

It is a permanent fixture which is anchored to the adjacent natural tooth or teeth (the abutment) to 'bridge' the gap where the tooth (or teeth) is missing (the pontic). This also prevents the adjacent natural teeth from drifting.

A bridge is a great option if you do not wish to have dental implants or a denture to replace your missing tooth or teeth. There are many different designs and materials which can be used for bridges: your dentist will discuss the best option for you.

Each bridge is handcrafted by a dental technician to create a healthy, natural look which also sits comfortably with your bite.

Regular Active Maintenance

The best way to maintain good oral hygiene is to brush and floss your teeth and to visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist not only examines your teeth for signs of decay or damage, he also looks for early signs of gum disease and oral cancer.

It is normally recommended that you visit your dentist twice a year, although people who have severe gum disease or a weakened immune system may need to visit the dentist more often. Your dentist will first ask if there have been any problems since your last dental check up and take a note of any new medication that you may be taking.

X-rays of your teeth are usually taken every 12 months, unless your dentist notices a problem. If cavities are found, or your dentist feels that your oral hygiene needs to be improved, he will create a treatment plan outlining the work to be carried out and the costing; you will then need to make an appointment(s) for the necessary treatment(s).

Root Canal Treatment

This dental procedure is carried out when the innermost part of the tooth, 'the pulp', becomes badly decayed or infected. If left untreated, the tooth will begin to die, which could lead to the loss of the tooth. To save the tooth, the infected pulp needs to be removed to prevent the formation of an abscess.

Crowns

A crown is a tooth shaped cover which fits over the existing structure of your natural tooth to protect and restore the tooth's function.

Crowns can be used to:

• Strengthen teeth which have been weakened by decay or a large filling
• Protect fractured, cracked or worn teeth
• Improve the shape, alignment and shade of a tooth
• After root canal treatment, to help strengthen the tooth

Each crown is individually handcrafted by a dental technician to create a healthy, natural look.

Preventative Dentistry

Pit and Fissure Sealants

Fissure sealant is a tooth coloured liquid which is applied on the chewing surface of adult molar teeth to prevent cavities from forming in early years. Once applied, the coating is permanent and will stay on your teeth for a number of years.

Why do I need fissure sealants?

Your back teeth are known as premolars and molars and have pits and grooves on the biting surface, some of which can be deep and difficult to keep clean with brushing. Food particles can become trapped and this creates a perfect breeding ground for plaque bacteria which, if left, will generate cavities. Fissure sealants work by filling the deep pits and grooves, making it easier to clean your teeth and thus helping to prevent cavities from forming.

Sports Mouthguards

Mouthguards are made from a plastic material called Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA). EVA is strong and tough and can be easily moulded to fit precisely over your teeth and gums.

Mouthguards are the most effective protective pieces of equipment to help prevent injury to the mouth - protecting the teeth, lips, cheeks and tongue. A mouthguard does not only protect your mouth, it can also cushion blows to the mouth or jaw, therefore preventing damage to the jaw, neck or brain.

Having a dentist take special impressions will create a guard to perfectly fit your mouth, teeth and gums, providing ultimate protection. The procedure is very simple; your dentist will take moulds of your teeth (both upper and lower). They will be sent to the dental laboratory where technicians will fabricate your custom-made guard.

Your sports mouth guard will need replacing over time. Just bring it along to your check-ups and your dentist will inspect it for wear and tear.

Teeth Grinding - Night Guards for Bruxism

Teeth grinding is a surprisingly common occurrence and often happens whilst asleep. Most people are therefore unaware that they are grinding and only come to realise it when their partner complains of the noise the following morning.

As most grinding occurs during sleep, the most common solution is the use of a mouthguard to prevent such grinding. Naturally, if your grinding is a result of stress then you should learn relaxation techniques and stress management.

Other noticeable effects of grinding (bruxism) are:

• Earache
• Jaw pain
• Facial and neck pain
• Sleep disorder - both yourself and partner
• Sensitivity to hot and cold drinks

As most grinding occurs during your sleep, the most common solution is the use of a mouthguard to prevent such grinding. This helps reduce the pressure of tooth grinding and helps prevent further damage to your teeth. Your dentist may also be able to make adjustments to your teeth in order to achieve a better bite and thus reduce the subconscious effort you are making.

Naturally, if your grinding is a result of stress then you should learn relaxation techniques and stress management.

Snore Appliances

One way to treat excessive snoring and sleep apnea is to use dental or oral devices. These appliances are useful in correcting mild to moderate cases of obstructive sleep apnea. The good news is that there are numerous options for these dental devices, and our dentists can recommend one that suits the particular needs of the patient and fit it in the safest way. One device that can be recommended for the sleep apnea sufferer is the mandibular advancement device. This is one of the most widely used dental appliances for the treatment of sleep apnea. It resembles a sports mouth guard in appearance and is useful in forcing the lower jaw down and forward slightly. This offers tremendous help in keeping the airway open, thereby preventing problems with breathing.

Jaw Exercises

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, more commonly known as TMJ, is a condition that affects the joint that opens and closes the mouth. The temporomandibular joints, located in front of the ears, attach the lower jaw to the skull and control mouth movement. This painful disorder can affect either the joint or muscles that surround it. The most common symptoms of TMJ are pain or loss of movement in the jaw, earache, headache, popping noises when opening and closing your mouth, facial pain and dizziness, among others. Exercising your jaw increases blood flow and oxygen to the join and muscles, helping to rejuvenate them.

• 1. Place your thumb underneath the centre of your chin. Open your mouth slowly by lowering your jaw, while applying steady light pressure to the bottom of your chin with your thumb. Hold your mouth in the open position for 3 to 6 seconds, then close your mouth slowly. Repeat this exercise 3 to 6 times.
• 2. Place your thumbs underneath your jaw and your index fingers on the joint of the jaw. Push lightly with both your thumbs and your index fingers as you close your mouth. Repeat this exercise 3 to 6 times.
• 3. Hold your tongue on the roof of your mouth as you slowly open and close your jaw. Repeat this exercise several times.
• 4. Exercise your jaw with side to side movement. Open your mouth and place an object that is less than 1/2inch thick, such as a pencil or a popsicle stick, between your teeth. Move your jaw slowly to one side, then the other. Repeat this exercise several times, then choose a thicker object to place between your teeth when the exercise is no longer challenging.

Other preventative dentistry services we provide:

• Splints and sports mouthguard moulding
• Snoring appliances
• Orthpantomography (OPG)