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.
There is no universal lifespan because durability depends on material, tooth position, bite forces, hygiene, diet and maintenance. Some restorations last many years, but none should be presented as permanent. Regular review helps identify wear, leakage or fracture early.
That depends on how much healthy tooth structure remains and how the tooth is being loaded during biting. Smaller defects may be suitable for a direct filling, while larger or more weakened teeth may need an onlay or crown for added protection. Suitability depends on clinical assessment.
After root canal treatment the tooth no longer has a living nerve supply inside the canal system. It can still function in the mouth, but it may become more brittle over time, which is why some teeth need additional reinforcement such as an onlay or crown after treatment.
Yes, sometimes a restoration needs review because of wear, fracture, decay at the margins, poor fit or recurrent food trapping rather than pain alone. The decision to replace it should be based on clinical findings and radiographic evidence where appropriate, not simply age or appearance.
Sometimes yes, but not in every case. Teeth with limited cracks may be stabilised and restored, while deeper cracks that extend into the root or split the tooth more severely may have a poorer outlook. The prognosis depends on the crack pattern, symptoms and remaining support.
Cosmetic dentistry refers to treatments that aim to improve the appearance of the smile while respecting oral health and function. Depending on the case, it may involve whitening, bonding, veneers or other restorative approaches. Any cosmetic plan should begin with a clinical assessment rather than appearance alone.
Composite bonding is a minimally invasive technique in which tooth-coloured material is added directly to the tooth to improve shape, close small gaps or repair chips. It is often conservative because little or no tooth reduction may be needed, but suitability depends on the bite, alignment and condition of the teeth.
Veneers are thin restorations, usually made from porcelain, that cover the front surface of selected teeth to improve colour, shape and overall harmony. They can be effective in the right case, but they are not suitable for everyone and should only be planned after a full clinical assessment.
When it is carried out appropriately under professional guidance, tooth whitening is generally considered safe for suitable patients. Temporary sensitivity or gum irritation can still occur, which is why assessment and instructions matter. Results vary, and whitening is not appropriate in every clinical situation.
It can be closer to reversible than some other cosmetic treatments when very little or no tooth preparation is needed, but that is not a blanket rule. The exact level of reversibility depends on how the case is prepared and finished. That should be discussed clearly before treatment.
Composite bonding can perform well for years, but it is more prone to wear, chipping and staining than porcelain. Longevity depends on the bite, diet, smoking or vaping habits, home care and whether the teeth are under heavy functional load. Results and durability vary between individuals.
Porcelain veneers may last many years when well planned and well maintained, but they should not be described as lifetime restorations. Their durability depends on the design, the supporting tooth, the bite and how the patient looks after them. Results vary and future maintenance or replacement may still be needed.
No, whitening products affect natural tooth tissue rather than restorations in the same way. That means colour mismatch can become more obvious if visible crowns, veneers or fillings are already present. A dentist should help plan the sequence so the final colour result is balanced.
