Common Dental Questions
Clear answers for oral health
Browse answers to common questions about oral health, treatments, costs, aftercare and patient experience at Attelia London. This page is designed to make dental topics easier to understand in a clear, balanced way. All information is general guidance, and suitability always depends on an individual clinical assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ Topics
Browse a selection of the questions patients ask most often about oral health, treatments, costs and aftercare.
Occasional bleeding should not usually be dismissed as normal, particularly if it keeps happening. In many cases it reflects gingivitis, which can often be improved when plaque control and professional care are addressed early. Left untreated, it may progress to more advanced gum disease in some patients.
Vaping has been associated with dry mouth, which matters because saliva helps protect teeth and soft tissues. A drier mouth may create conditions that make decay and irritation more likely. The impact varies between individuals and depends on factors such as frequency, nicotine content and overall oral hygiene.
Yes. Hormonal changes can affect gum tissues, comfort and saliva flow, which is why some people notice new bleeding, dryness or sensitivity during periods such as menopause. These changes deserve a proper review because symptoms may overlap with other dental or medical causes.
Yes, in more advanced cases gum disease can damage the structures that support the teeth. Tooth loss is not inevitable, but delay usually reduces the range of simpler options. Early diagnosis and consistent maintenance are important for keeping disease stable over time.
Prevention focuses on reducing risk before damage becomes advanced. In practical terms, that often means simpler care, less tissue loss and fewer complex procedures later. It does not remove every risk, but it can make long-term care more predictable when combined with good home hygiene and regular professional review.
That sensation is often linked to plaque build-up, especially if cleaning has been missed or the mouth is dry. It can also happen when tartar is present or when certain foods and drinks leave residue behind. If it keeps returning quickly, it is worth checking both hygiene technique and gum health.
A root-treated tooth may already have significant structural loss from decay, fracture or previous fillings. Once the internal tissues are removed, the remaining tooth can be more prone to cracking under load. A crown or onlay may therefore be recommended to improve long-term function and protection.
A crown is often considered when a tooth has lost a significant amount of structure, has had root canal treatment, or is at higher risk of fracture. It can help protect the tooth while restoring shape, strength and function. The need for a crown should be based on how much sound tissue remains.
An inlay usually fits within the cusps of the tooth, an onlay extends over one or more cusps, and a crown covers the whole visible part of the tooth above the gum line. The choice depends on how much structure has been lost, how strong the remaining tooth is, and the forces the tooth needs to withstand.
White fillings are usually made from tooth-coloured composite and are chosen partly for appearance. Silver fillings are usually amalgam, which is metallic and has historically been used for strength in certain situations. The best option depends on the tooth, the size of the cavity and clinical conditions.
Root canal treatment is used when the nerve tissue inside a tooth has become inflamed or infected. The internal space is cleaned, disinfected and sealed so that the tooth can often be retained rather than removed. It is a treatment to preserve the tooth, not a cosmetic procedure.
A filling is commonly used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay or a small fracture. The aim is to remove the compromised area, restore shape and function, and help prevent the problem from progressing further. The right material and design depend on the size and location of the defect.
A cracked tooth may cause sharp pain on biting, sensitivity to temperature, or no symptoms at all in the early stages. Some cracks are very fine and difficult to detect on X-rays. Because the depth and direction matter, diagnosis often relies on a combination of examination, tests and imaging.
Not always. Some cases can be completed in a single visit, while others benefit from more than one appointment because of infection level, tooth anatomy or restoration planning. The number of visits depends on the complexity of the case and what is found during treatment.
