Dentistry

Dentistry is a specialized field of healthcare dedicated to the care and maintenance of oral health. It encompasses a broad spectrum of services, from routine dental checkups and cleaning to complex procedures like oral surgery and orthodontics. Here at Aster we have highly trained dental professionals who diagnose, treat and prevent oral disease and conditions. They also address aesthetic concerns through procedures like veneers, teeth whitening, full mouth rehabilitation. Beyond enhancing smiles, dentistry is integral to overall well-being, as it closely linked to systemic health issues. 

The department of dentistry at Aster has the following facilities :

• General Dentistry- Ultrasonic Scaling and Polishing, Restorative Dentistry, Extractions,  Dental X-ray - RVG, OPG, CT.
• Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopaedics- Aligners, Invisalign, Metal Braces, Self-Ligating Braces/ Damon Braces, Ceramic Braces, Clear Braces, Myofunctional Appliances, Habit Breaking Appliances, Obturators.
• Cosmetic Dentistry- Digital Smile Design, Crowns, Veneers, Laminates, Composite Restorations (Aesthetic Restorations). 
• Dental Implants - Implant Supported Denture, Implant Retained Crowns and Bridges, Full Mouth Implant Supported Denture. 
• Dentures - Cast Partial Denture, Fixed Partial Denture, Over Denture, Precision Attachment Denture, Bps Denture etc..
• Crowns and Bridges- All Ceramic Crowns – Zirconia Crowns, Inlay & Onlay,  Metal with Ceramic Crowns and Bridges. 
• Periodontal Therapy- Scaling, Subgingival Scaling (Deep Scaling), Root Planing, Flap Surgery, Gingivectomy, Gingivoplasty, Coronoplasty, Ankyloglossia (Tongue Tie), Local Drug Delivery, Bone Graft.
• Laser Dentistry- Laser Excision, Laser Biopsy, Laser De-pigmentation, Laser Flap Surgery, Laser Curettage, Laser Debridement, Laser Gingivectomy,  Laser Gingivoplasty.
• Oral Maxillofacial Surgery- Surgical Correction, Orthognathic Correction, Surgical Extractions, Surgical removal of Third Molars (Wisdom Tooth).
• Conservative & Endodontic Dentistry- Restorative Dentistry, Root Canal Treatment (Single Visit), Re-Root Canal Treatment, Apicoectomy.
• Pedodontics & Preventive Dental Procedures - Pit and Fissure Sealants, Pulpectomy (RCT), Pulpotomy, Crowns, Habit Breaking Appliances, Space Maintainers, Fluoride Applications.

General Dentistry :

General dentistry is a branch of oral healthcare that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of dental conditions and oral health issues. Dentists who practice general dentistry are often referred to as family dentists or general practitioners. Their primary responsibilities include routine dental exams, cleanings, fillings, and extractions. They also provide guidance on oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, and educate patients about the importance of maintaining good oral health. 

Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopaedics: 

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on correcting and aligning irregularities in the teeth and jaws. Orthodontists use braces, aligners, and other devices to improve the aesthetics and functionality of a patient's bite and smile. The goal is to achieve proper tooth alignment, which can enhance oral health, speech, and overall well-being. Orthodontic treatment is commonly sought by individuals with issues like crooked teeth, overcrowding, and misaligned jaws. It can have a significant impact on a person's confidence and oral function.

Cosmetic Dentistry:

Cosmetic dentistry is a field of dentistry that emphasizes enhancing the appearance of a person's teeth, gums, and overall smile. While it may not always be medically necessary, cosmetic dentistry procedures are aimed at improving aesthetics and boosting a patient's self-confidence. Common cosmetic procedures include teeth whitening, veneers, dental bonding, and orthodontic treatments. These treatments can address issues like tooth discoloration, chipped or misshapen teeth, gaps, and more. Cosmetic dentists are skilled in both the art and science of creating beautiful smiles, and they work closely with patients to achieve their desired look while maintaining oral health.

Dental Implants :

Dental implants are a modern and highly effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They consist of titanium posts that are surgically implanted into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. This provides a strong foundation for attaching customized artificial teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Dental implants offer several advantages, including improved stability, natural appearance, and enhanced functionality compared to traditional dentures or bridges. The process typically involves multiple stages, including implant placement, a healing period, and the attachment of the replacement teeth. Dental implants are known for their long-term durability and can significantly improve a patient's ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence, making them a popular choice for addressing tooth loss.

Crowns and Bridges :

Crowns and bridges are dental restorative treatments used to repair and replace damaged or missing teeth.

1. Dental Crowns:

• A dental crown, often called a "cap," is a custom-made covering that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth.
• Crowns are typically used to restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of a tooth that has extensive decay, a large filling, a root canal, or a fracture.
• They can be made from various materials, such as porcelain, metal, or a combination of both, depending on the specific dental needs and aesthetic preferences of the patient.
• Crowns help protect the tooth from further damage and improve its functionality.

2. Dental Bridges:

• A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between adjacent natural teeth.
• It consists of two or more crowns on either side of the gap (abutment teeth) and one or more artificial teeth in between (pontics).
• Bridges can be made from various materials, similar to crowns, and are designed to match the patient's natural teeth in color and appearance.
• They not only restore the ability to chew and speak but also help maintain the alignment of surrounding teeth, preventing them from shifting.

In summary, crowns and bridges are essential components of restorative dentistry, used to repair damaged teeth and fill gaps from missing teeth. These treatments improve oral function, aesthetics, and overall oral health, allowing patients to enjoy a more confident and comfortable smile.

Periodontal Therapy :

Periodontal therapy, often referred to as periodontal treatment or gum disease treatment, is a branch of dentistry dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, and management of conditions affecting the supporting structures of the teeth, particularly the gums and bone.

Key aspects of periodontal therapy include:

1. Diagnosis: Periodontists, or dentists with specialized training in periodontics, assess the health of the gums, measure pocket depths, and evaluate the extent of gum disease. Common conditions diagnosed include gingivitis and periodontitis.
2. Non-Surgical Treatments: Initial stages of gum disease are often addressed with non-surgical methods like scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), which removes plaque and tartar buildup. This can be supplemented with antibiotic therapy.
3. Surgical Treatments: In more advanced cases, surgical procedures may be necessary. These can include gum grafting, pocket reduction surgery, and bone grafts to repair damaged tissues and restore proper gum and bone support for the teeth.
4. Maintenance: After treatment, regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor and maintain periodontal health. Patients are often educated on effective oral hygiene practices to prevent the recurrence of gum disease.
5. Periodontal therapy: Its is essential for preventing tooth loss and preserving overall oral health. Untreated gum disease can lead to more severe issues, such as bone loss and systemic health problems. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential in preventing and managing periodontal conditions.

Laser Dentistry :

Laser dentistry is an innovative approach that uses focused laser beams for various dental procedures. It offers several advantages, including reduced pain, minimized bleeding, and faster healing compared to traditional methods. Lasers are used in tasks like cavity detection, soft and hard tissue procedures, gum disease treatment, and teeth whitening. This technology can make dental treatments more comfortable and efficient for patients while allowing for greater precision and reducing the need for anesthesia in some cases.

Oral Maxillofacial Surgery :

Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis and surgical treatment of a wide range of oral and facial conditions. These surgeons are trained to address complex issues involving the mouth, jaws, face, and neck. Common procedures include tooth extractions, wisdom teeth removal, corrective jaw surgery, treatment of oral and facial injuries, and the management of various oral pathologies. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons work to improve both the function and aesthetics of the oral and facial regions, often collaborating with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care for patients.

Conservative & Endodontic Dentistry :

Conservative dentistry and endodontics are dental specialties that focus on preserving and treating natural teeth.

1. Conservative Dentistry:

•    This discipline emphasizes the preservation of natural tooth structure by treating and preventing dental caries (cavities).
•    Conservative dentistry procedures include fillings, inlays, onlays, and minimally invasive techniques to restore teeth damaged by decay or trauma.
•    The goal is to maintain the integrity and strength of the tooth while addressing dental issues.

2. Endodontics:

•    Endodontics deals with the diagnosis and treatment of the dental pulp, which is the innermost part of the tooth, and the tissues surrounding the tooth's roots.
•    Root canal therapy is a common endodontic procedure, involving the removal of infected or damaged pulp, cleaning, disinfection, and sealing of the tooth's root canals.
•    Endodontists also handle issues like dental trauma, dental abscesses, and root surgery.

Both conservative dentistry and endodontics aim to save natural teeth whenever possible, ensuring that they remain functional and pain-free. These specialties play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and preventing tooth loss.

Pedodontics & Preventive Dental Procedures :

Pedodontics, or pediatric dentistry, is a specialized field of dentistry focused on the oral health of children and adolescents Pediatric dentists are trained to create a comfortable and child-friendly environment, making dental visits less intimidating for young patients. They offer a range of services, including routine check-ups, fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and education on proper oral hygiene practices.

Preventive dentistry, on the other hand, is a broader approach aimed at avoiding dental problems in patients of all ages. It includes practices like regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and oral health education to help individuals maintain healthy teeth and gums. This approach can help identify issues early on and prevent the need for more extensive and costly treatments in the future.

In summary, pedodontics is specialized in caring for the unique oral health needs of children, while preventive dentistry is a broader approach that promotes good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits to prevent dental issues in patients of all ages.