Biomimetic dentistry: saving more of your natural teeth
At The Gentle Touch, biomimetic dentistry is at the heart of everything we do. It means we can often save teeth that might otherwise be removed, and keep as much of your own tooth as possible.
What is biomimetic dentistry?
Biomimetic is a term that means “to imitate (mimic) biology, nature and life”. Scientists and professionals working in healthcare, skincare, haircare, agriculture, manufacturing and construction all draw on biomimetics. Biologists, engineers and chemists use biomimetics to design solutions to complex human problems, drawing inspiration from nature and the human body.
In dentistry, biomimetics has enabled the design of materials that mimic the natural structure of a tooth. At The Gentle Touch, we use these materials to restore and repair teeth. Biomimetic dentistry conserves tooth structure, strengthening weak or decayed teeth and sealing them against bacteria getting back in. Because the materials are so life-like, we can restore your teeth as closely as possible to their original state.
This type of treatment focuses on saving as much of your natural tooth as possible. It can cut down on the need for more invasive procedures like root canals or tooth extractions.
Benefits of a biomimetic approach
Biomimetic dentistry is part of our ethos of delivering gentle, preventive dentistry. We focus on the long-term health of your teeth. The benefits which a biomimetic approach brings to our patients include:
- Better value over time: Biomimetic restorations are designed to last and keep more of your own tooth, which can save you from more involved treatment later on.
- Guaranteed for members: For members, composite restorations, or ‘white fillings’, and the foundations (‘biobase’) of onlays are guaranteed for 10 years, though they’ll likely last for decades.
- Restores and prevents future damage: Biomimetic treatment restores your tooth and helps protect it against further decay and cracks.
- Conserves your tooth structure: Traditional metal fillings and crowns often mean drilling away healthy tooth. Biomimetic treatment keeps as much of it as possible.
- Fewer visits: Your clinician can often complete biomimetic treatment in a single visit, rather than several visits over a number of weeks.
- Life-like results: Biomimetic treatments mimic the elasticity and durability of natural enamel and dentine, so your teeth look and feel natural.
Biomimetic dentistry is a growing field that has already helped many patients. We would love to show you how it could help your teeth and your smile.
A second opinion on saving your tooth
We are happy to offer second opinions on whether a tooth can be saved. Our biomimetic approach means we are sometimes able to save teeth that other dentists have recommended be removed completely. You do not need to be a member. Get in touch and we can have an initial chat about what options might be available.