Restorative Dentistry

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite fillings, are a popular choice for restoring teeth affected by decay or damage. At THC Dental Centre, we prioritize aesthetic dentistry that not only enhances your smile but also ensures strong and durable results. Here’s what you should know about tooth-colored fillings:

What are Tooth-Colored Fillings? Tooth-colored fillings are made of a mixture of glass and plastic resin that can be closely matched to the natural color of your teeth. This allows for a seamless and aesthetic restoration of cavities and damaged teeth, especially in visible areas.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings: There are several advantages to choosing composite fillings, including:
- Aesthetics: Tooth-colored fillings blend naturally with your teeth, providing a more pleasing appearance compared to traditional silver (amalgam) fillings.
- Bonding: Composite fillings adhere directly to the tooth structure, which can help restore its strength and integrity, often requiring less removal of the tooth material than amalgam fillings.
- Versatility: These fillings can be used for both front and back teeth, making them a flexible choice for various dental restorations.
- Minimum Sensitivity: Composite materials typically reduce the expansion and contraction that can occur with temperature changes, leading to less sensitivity for the patient.
The Filling Process: The application of tooth-colored fillings is a relatively straightforward procedure:
- Preparation: The dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth and remove the decayed portion.
- Placement: After preparing the tooth, the composite material is applied in layers and shaped to match the tooth’s natural contour.
- Curing: A special light is used to harden the composite material, ensuring a durable and long-lasting restoration.
- Finishing Touch: Finally, the filling is polished and adjusted for a comfortable bite.
Longevity and Care: Tooth-colored fillings are durable but may not last as long as metallic fillings in some cases. To ensure the longevity of your fillings:
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
- Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.
- Avoid biting hard foods that could potentially damage the filling.
Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Right for You? During your consultation at THC Dental Centre, your dentist will evaluate your specific needs and recommend the best filling material, taking into consideration factors such as the location of the filling, extent of the decay, and your personal preferences.

Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are conservative dental restorations used to repair teeth that have experienced decay or damage while preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible. At THC Dental Centre, we offer these customized restorations to restore both function and aesthetics to your smile. Here’s everything you need to know about inlays and onlays:

What are Inlays and Onlays?
- Inlays: Inlays are used to fill cavities within the grooves of the tooth, typically in the back teeth (molars and premolars). They are custom-made to fit the specific shape of your tooth.
- Onlays: Onlays, also known as “partial crowns,” are used when the damage extends beyond the cusps (the raised points of the tooth) but doesn’t require a full crown. Onlays cover one or more cusps of the tooth to provide better protection.
When are Inlays and Onlays Used?
- When a tooth has moderate decay that cannot be treated with a traditional filling.
- When a tooth is structurally compromised but does not require a full crown.
- To repair chipped or cracked teeth while preserving as much natural tooth as possible.
- In cosmetic dentistry, to improve the appearance of a tooth by matching it to the surrounding teeth.
The Process of Getting Inlays and Onlays:
1. Consultation: Your dentist will assess the damage to your tooth and determine whether an inlay or onlay is appropriate for your situation.
2. Preparation: The affected area of the tooth is numbed, and any decay is removed, creating a proper space for the restoration.
3. Impressions: After preparation, impressions of your teeth are taken to create a custom inlay or onlay that fits perfectly.
4. Temporary Restoration: A temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth while your custom restoration is being fabricated.
5. Placement: Once the custom inlay or onlay is ready, it is cemented onto the prepared tooth, and any adjustments are made for a comfortable bite.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays:
- Conservative Treatment: Inlays and onlays require less removal of natural tooth structure compared to full crowns.
- Durability: Made from strong materials such as porcelain or resin, they provide long-lasting solutions for restoring teeth.
- Aesthetic Appeal: They can be color-matched to your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless appearance.
- Strength and Protection: They restore strength to weakened teeth and provide protection from further decay or damage.
Aftercare: After receiving inlays or onlays, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Regular dental check-ups will help monitor the health of the restoration and surrounding teeth.

Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure designed to save a tooth that is severely decayed or infected. At THC Dental Centre, we understand that the idea of a root canal can be intimidating, but our skilled team is dedicated to making the process as comfortable and straightforward as possible. Here’s everything you need to know about root canal treatment:

What is a Root Canal?
Root canal therapy involves the removal of the infected or inflamed pulp inside the tooth. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that can become compromised due to deep cavities, trauma, or cracks in the tooth. Once the pulp is removed, the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent further infection.
Indications for Root Canal Treatment:
Root canal treatment may be necessary in the following situations:
- Severe toothache or sensitivity to hot and cold that persists.
- Pain when chewing or applying pressure to the affected tooth.
- Swelling and tenderness in the gums near the tooth.
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth.
- Recurring pimple on the gums (indicating infection).
The Root Canal Procedure:
The root canal procedure typically involves the following steps:
1. Diagnosis and Preparation: The dentist will assess the tooth using X-rays to determine the extent of the damage. Local anesthesia will be administered to ensure a pain-free experience.
2. Pulp Removal: An opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. The infected pulp is carefully removed.
3. Cleansing and Shaping: The inside of the tooth is cleaned, shaped, and disinfected using special instruments to remove any remaining debris and bacteria.
4. Filling the Canal: Once cleaned, the root canal is filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to seal the space and prevent future infections.
5. Restoration: After the root canal treatment, the tooth may require a crown or filling to restore its strength and function. The dentist will discuss the best restoration option for your tooth.
Aftercare and Recovery:
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort or mild swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. It is essential to follow your dentist’s post-treatment care instructions:
- Avoid biting or chewing on the treated tooth until it has been fully restored.
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure the success of the treatment.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment:
- Preservation of Natural Tooth: Root canal treatment allows you to keep your natural tooth, maintaining its function and aesthetics.
- Prevention of Further Infection: Removing the infected pulp helps prevent the spread of infection to surrounding teeth.
- Relief from Pain: The procedure alleviates the pain associated with tooth infections and restores comfort to your daily life.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described above or have questions about root canal treatment, please contact THC Dental Centre to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to help you achieve optimal oral health and comfort.

Dental Crowns and Bridges

Dental crowns and bridges are restorative treatments that help improve the function and appearance of your teeth. At THC Dental Centre, we offer personalized solutions to address various dental issues, ensuring you regain your confidence and smile. Here’s what you need to know about dental crowns and bridges:

What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these, depending on the location of the tooth and your aesthetic preferences.
Indications for Dental Crowns:
Crowns are used in several situations, including:
- To restore a tooth after a root canal treatment.
- To strengthen a weakened or fractured tooth.
- To support a large filling when there isn’t enough tooth structure remaining.
- To enhance the appearance of misshaped or discolored teeth.
- As part of a dental implant to replace a missing tooth.
The Dental Crown Procedure:
The process of getting a dental crown generally involves the following steps:
1. Consultation and Examination: Your dentist will evaluate the affected tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of damage.
2. Tooth Preparation: The tooth is numbed with local anesthesia, then reshaped to accommodate the crown. Any decay is removed, and the tooth is cleaned.
3. Impression: An impression of the prepared tooth is taken to create a custom crown that fits perfectly.
4. Temporary Crown: A temporary crown may be placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being fabricated in a dental lab.
5. Crown Placement: Once ready, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is fitted and cemented into place.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between the remaining teeth. It typically consists of two or more crowns (abutment teeth) on either side of the gap, with one or more false teeth (pontics) in between.
Indications for Dental Bridges:
Dental bridges are suitable when:
- You have one or more missing teeth that need replacement.
- The adjacent teeth are healthy and can support a bridge.
- You want to restore your ability to chew and speak properly and improve your smile.
The Dental Bridge Procedure:
The process for getting a dental bridge is similar to that of a crown and involves several steps:
1. Consultation and Examination: Your dentist will assess your oral health and determine if a bridge is the right option.
2. Tooth Preparation: The adjacent teeth (abutments) are prepared by reshaping them to accommodate the crowns that will support the bridge.
3. Impression: An impression is taken to create a custom bridge that fits seamlessly with your bite.
4. Temporary Bridge: A temporary bridge may be placed while the permanent one is being fabricated.
5. Bridge Placement: Once the permanent bridge is ready, the temporary one is removed, and the new bridge is fitted and cemented into place.
Benefits of Dental Crowns and Bridges:
- Restoration of Function: Both crowns and bridges restore the ability to chew and speak effectively.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: They improve the appearance of damaged and missing teeth, boosting confidence in your smile.
- Durability: Crowns and bridges are made from strong materials and can last many years with proper care.
- Protection: Crowns protect weakened teeth from further damage, while bridges prevent adjacent teeth from shifting into gaps.

If you have damaged or missing teeth and are considering options for restoration, contact THC Dental Centre to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team will work with you to determine the best treatment for your needs.