Definition
What is composite bonding?
Composite bonding is tooth-coloured resin applied directly to a tooth and sculpted to change its shape, edge, colour or proportions, usually without removing healthy tooth tissue.
Patient resource
Dental terms, explained clearly
Plain-language explanations of composite bonding, implants, veneers, onlays, crowns, bone grafts and other dental terms from Dr Vikas Prinja in London.
Definition
What is a dental onlay?
A dental onlay is a laboratory-made restoration that replaces a damaged part of a tooth while preserving more healthy tooth than a full crown. It is bonded over one or more cusps where a filling is not strong enough.
Definition
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a titanium or ceramic fixture placed in the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. After healing, it supports a crown, bridge or denture.
Definition
What is a dental bone graft?
A dental bone graft adds graft material to an area with insufficient jawbone volume, creating a more suitable foundation for an implant or supporting the shape of a healed extraction site.
Definition
What is a ceramic veneer?
A ceramic veneer is a thin, custom-made shell bonded to the visible surface of a tooth to change its shape or colour. It is considered only after checking enamel, bite, tooth position and gum health.
Definition
What is an orthodontic retainer?
An orthodontic retainer is a fixed or removable appliance worn after tooth straightening to reduce the natural tendency of teeth to move back towards their former positions.
Definition
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth, cleans and seals the canals, and then restores the tooth so it can function again.
Definition
What is an E.max crown?
An E.max crown is a full-coverage ceramic crown made from lithium disilicate. It is selected where its strength, appearance and the condition of the remaining tooth make it appropriate.
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