Extensive General Dentistry in Duncan & the Cowichan Valley
Whatever your dental needs, our experienced and compassionate team is here for you. All your dental issues will be carefully examined and diagnosed by our knowledgeable staff. At Reflexions Dental, we offer a wide range of general dental services along with preventative and restorative treatments to maintain superior oral health. Here are just some of the services we offer:
Fillings
When a tooth is slightly decayed into the enamel and/or dentin, a filling can be used to try and repair the tooth. The decay is carefully removed, and the filling material is placed to complete the restoration. There are two types of filling materials - composite/tooth coloured material and amalgam/metal material. Although we mostly use composite filling material, there are instances when amalgam fillings are warranted. Proper brushing and flossing can reduce the risk of further tooth decay.
Crowns
When a tooth has extensive decay or is severely broken down with little natural tooth structure remaining, a filling may not be enough to restore the tooth. That is when a full-coverage crown restoration is required. The decay or damaged tooth structure is removed along with any old filling material. The new filling material is sometimes placed to build up the tooth, so it is strong enough to support the new crown. An impression is then taken of the prepared tooth and sent to a dental lab to make the crown. A temporary crown is made and inserted until the final crown is ready.
Root canals
When a tooth is severely decayed or damaged, and the pulp of the tooth has become infected or compromised, a root canal is required to save the tooth. The infected pulp and root tissue are removed from the tooth, and the canals are filled in. This may be done in one or two sessions. A temporary filling is then placed. A tooth that has had a root canal will most likely require a crown afterwards.
Extractions
If a tooth has become decayed or damaged beyond repair, it should be removed to prevent possible infection and damage to surrounding tissues and teeth. Once the tooth has been removed, it can be replaced with a dental implant, a bridge, or a denture.
Bridges
When a tooth is missing, a bridge can be placed to fill in space and help restore the bite. A bridge most often consists of three parts that are permanently fixed in the mouth. A pontic, or false tooth is fixed to two crowns, one on either side of the space. The procedure is similar to having a crown placed.
Dental implants
An implant is an option that can replace teeth without affecting the teeth next to them. A titanium post that functions like a root is placed in the jawbone, and a false tooth is placed on top. Bridges or dentures can also be supported by implants to replace multiple teeth.