• Aesthetic Dental Institute - FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Do we accept medical aid?

We do accept medical aids and we will submit your claims for you. Medical aid generally does not cover aesthetic work.

ARE ROOT CANALS PAINFUL?

Root canal treatments are less painful than one imagines. Once anaesthetised; patients feel very little other than the instruments being used in their mouths.

A root canal relieves the original toothache so pain and discomfort from the infection is removed however some tenderness may be felt post-procedure and this generally this does not last more than 2 days.

Mild pain killers such can be used if necessary.

WHY ARE MY GUMS BLEEDING?

There are several very general reasons for someone’s gums to bleeding.

We highly recommend though that if your gums are bleeding that you visit Aesthetic Dental Institute as soon as possible so we can examine your mouth and offer more accurate advice and treatment if necessary.

Some common reasons for bleeding gums are the following:

  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Smoking
  • Pregnancy
  • Plaque and tartar build up underneath the gum tissue
  • Diabetes
  • Certain medications
  • Gum disease
  • Flossing after a long time may cause irritation to the gums and sensitivity

How to Manage and Treat Gum Disease?

Visit Aesthetic Dental Institute as soon as possible so we can examine you and customize a suitable treatment for your specific case. Good care however can still be given until your examination and these include:

  • Brush and floss regularly. We recommend brushing at least twice a day with a soft toothbrush as a hard bristle will worsen the problem.
    Keep your brushstrokes gentle and brush away from the gum to the centre of the mouth to prevent plaque build up at the gum line.
  • Floss daily and use a good antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacterias.
  • Rinse your mouth after eating.
  • Don’t pick at your gums or keep touching them with dirty hands.
    Our hands carry bacteria and this will only infect your mouth more.
  • Stop smoking. Smoking increases the risk of lung cancer and gum disease.
  • Schedule a deep cleaning. If you already have gum disease we may recommend that you have a deep cleaning or root planning and scaling procedure.

WHY SHOULD I HAVE DENTAL X-RAYS TAKEN?

Dental X-Rays offer a much clearer indication and insight into a patients mouth allowing the dentist to accurately identify the problem. This is important so that the patient can receive the best care and medical advice and solutions as possible. X-rays also allow for the dentist to monitor changes year upon year and help you plan for any future dental problems that could arise.

SIGNS OF DENTAL PROBLEMS?

Schedule an appointment with us if you show signs of one of the following symptoms:

  • Persistent toothache
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Swollen gums
  • Jaw pain
  • Redness
  • Persistent ear ache
  • Chipped tooth
  • Sharp pain
  • Bad breath
  • Lose dentures
  • Gum discomfort from dentures
  • Broken teeth
  • Dry mouth
  • Mouth sores
  • Gum sores
  • Bleeding gums

What Is Dental Implants And Are They Painful?

Dental implants are metal anchors, which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone where small “abutments” are then attached to the implant. These abutments act as stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth called “crowns. Dental implants are not an overnight job and require surgery.

The implants are placed within the patient’s jawbone and pain is not felt because this is done via anaesthetic. For the first three to six months following surgery, we leave these implants beneath the surface of the gums to gradually bond with the jawbone.

How Durable Are Porcelain Veneers And Do They Look Natural?

With proper care, porcelain veneers will brighten your smile for a long time.

When bonded to the teeth, porcelain veneers are virtually undetectable and highly resistant to coffee, tea, or even cigarette stains.

At Aesthetic Dental Institute we ensure that our veneers are crafted from the highest quality porcelains and are bonded with the most advanced and proven materials available for durability and strength.

Is Teeth Whitening Painful?

There are several options and products used for teeth whitening, we at Aesthetic Dental Institute use ZOOM WHITENING which is performed professionally at our offices.

Many of our patients have not experienced too much sensitivity or pain but discomfort rather a little discomfort in adjusting their eating and drinking habits after.

We advise no drinking or smoking or eating for up to 4 hours after treatment. If one must drink we advise using a straw.