Restorative dentistry service
The focus of restorative dentistry is oral restoration of the following groups of priority patients:
- Medically complex patients, for example: severe bleeding disorders, infective endocarditis, intravenous bisphosphonate medication.
- Maxillofacial trauma.
- Developmental defects, for example cleft lip/palate, congenitally missing teeth (hypodontia) and malformation of teeth.
- Head and neck cancer.
Restorative dentistry encompasses three specialist areas
- Endodontics – managing teeth that require root canal treatment.
- Prosthodontics – managing broken down or missing teeth with crowns, bridges, dentures or implants.
- Periodontics – preventing and managing problems that affect the gums.
We provide support and advice to dentists who refer their patients for specialist input, in addition to delivering high quality treatment as part of training the next generation of dentists and specialists.
Our restorative service acceptance criteria has been agreed with national commissioners, in line with national guidance and standards.
Information for patients
Who is the service for?
The service provides treatment for patients with head and neck cancer, severe maxillofacial trauma, dental developmental defects and specific medical conditions, such as severe bleeding disorders, which cannot be managed in general dental practice or the community dental services.
We also provide support and advice to dentists who refer their patients for specialist input with treatment planning.
How can I be seen at the dental hospital?
All patients need to be referred via their general dentist for an initial assessment.
What does my first visit involve?
- You will be assessed on a consultant-led clinic which may take 2-3 hours and does not guarantee treatment at the dental hospital.
- Additional x-rays may be required to assist with planning.
- If following assessment, specialist care is not required, you will be discharged to your referring dentist.
Who will carry out my treatment?
Depending on complexity, treatment at the restorative department may be provided by dental students, hygienists, therapists, dentists undergoing further postgraduate training or consultants.
Will I still need to see my own dentist if I get accepted for treatment?
- Yes. Patients should remain registered with their general dentist throughout their treatment.
- We normally ask your dentist to provide any routine dental treatment that does not require specialist care.
- Even whilst undergoing treatment at the dental hospital, you need to continue to see your own dentist for any emergency treatment, continuing maintenance and routine check-ups.