Monday, July 23, 2018

Bring Your Smiles to Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry

We’re excited to announce that Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry is expanding – again!

Part of our mission is to consistently provide the highest standard of dental care possible. We strive to accomplish this with convenience, pediatric dentistry education, and open lines of communication.

Building trust and relationships is what our success hinges upon. We take your needs and requests to heart, which is why we’ve decided to open a sixth location at Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry!

Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry exterior of office

Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry Partnerships

In order to provide a well-rounded, one-stop-shop approach to pediatric dental care, a partnership had to be considered and enacted. Dr. David Moore has a selective process with how he chooses partnerships for his dental offices. He knew the expansion of the practice to Harrisburg had to be done with care and precision, which included the methodical selection of a partner to help fulfill the mission of the practice.

Our successful partnership with Zammitti & Gidaly Orthodontics in Davidson spurred the decision to continue the partnership in Harrisburg!

Parent & Patient Feedback

The feedback of parents throughout the community helped guide Dr. Moore to the decision of opening the Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry location. Zammitti & Gidaly Orthodontics shares our belief that parent feedback is crucial to serving each family that chooses us as their pediatric dentistry care provider.

Your voice helps guide us to build long-lasting patient relationships and provide the best pediatric dental care throughout your child’s formative years. Our goal is to make each appointment productive, relaxed, informative, and even fun! See how we’ve been accomplishing this for families all over the Charlotte area by browsing our parent testimonials.

Customer testimonial for Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry

Customer testimonial for Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry

Dentists & Team

Dr. Cami Miskovich has built a strong rapport with her patients since joining the Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry team in Cotswold & Gastonia. Her work has been well-received by Charlotte parents and their families.

Dr. Miskovich will be serving the patients of Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry, along with the assistance of highly trained and friendly hygienists, assistants, and office personnel. Her passion for her craft and her natural ability to work with children made her the perfect choice to lead the new location. We are excited for the Harrisburg community to meet her!

The Harrisburg Pediatric dentistry team with happy patients.

The Harrisburg Pediatric dentistry team with happy patients.

Make an Appointment

Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry is slated to open in the Fall of 2018, but they are currently accepting new patients. We welcome you to come by during business hours for a tour and an opportunity to meet your new Harrisburg pediatric dental team!

https://ift.tt/2LLeQae

Sport a Smile for ISPCC Childline

The 2018 edition of the DeCare Dental Sport a Smile 5KM fun run/walk and corporate challenge recently took place in Claremorris. This year represented the 17th anniversary of the event and experienced one of the highest competitor turnouts of the past decade. Participants enjoyed... https://ift.tt/2uH4IJe

Preventing tooth decay with Dental Sealants

A sealant is a plastic film-like material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The plastic material bonds to the pits and fissures of the teeth and acts as a barrier to protect the teeth from decay. How are sealants... https://ift.tt/2Litjy8

Sunday, July 22, 2018

Over-the-counter Teeth Whitening Products: Are They Worth the Buck?

Are over-the-counter whitening toothpastes, whitening strips and DIY whitening systems safe and effective? Find out from our dental hygienist today.

https://ift.tt/2Lffxwf

Thursday, July 19, 2018

How can diabetes affect my oral health?

Uncontrolled diabetes where the level of sugar circulating in the blood is higher than normal, causes damage throughout the body including the mouth. Too much glucose in your blood from diabetes can cause pain, infection and other problems in your mouth including, dry mouth,... https://ift.tt/2JEhoFl

How Can Dental Bonding Improve My Smile?

Cosmetic bonding is easy, done in one visit, and is cost effective. Discover how this simple treatment can improve your smile.

https://ift.tt/2Lv94JK

Do you know the hidden Sugar content in food?

Good dental health like good general health relies on having healthy eating habits. Our teeth can be affected as much by our diet, as by not brushing our teeth regularly. Modern diets can be high in sugar, fats and salt, impacting both on general... https://ift.tt/2NuS3Qx

DRY MOUTH

Dry mouth, also known as Xerostomia, is the feeling that there is not enough saliva in the mouth. Everyone has dry mouth occasionally – if they are nervous, upset or under stress. But if you have a dry mouth all or most of the... https://ift.tt/2O5j2n0

Tuesday, July 17, 2018

5 Steps to Reduce Insurance Write-offs

Many businesses, large and small, have a huge source of great ideas that can help them improve, innovate, and grow, and yet so many of these companies never think of using this amazing corporate asset. What is this highly valuable asset? Its own people.

The post 5 Steps to Reduce Insurance Write-offs appeared first on ACT Dental.

https://ift.tt/2Lo04Jw

5 Steps to Reduce Insurance Write-offs

Many businesses, large and small, have a huge source of great ideas that can help them improve, innovate, and grow, and yet so many of these companies never think of using this amazing corporate asset. What is this highly valuable asset? Its own people.

The post 5 Steps to Reduce Insurance Write-offs appeared first on ACT Dental.

https://ift.tt/2JxlrTS

Monday, July 16, 2018

Do I Need to Invest in an Electric Toothbrush?

Is it time to dump your manual toothbrush in favor of an electric one? Do electric toothbrushes live up to the hype? Find out from hygienist Felicia today.

https://ift.tt/2LnBBRx

Routine Dental Cleaning During Your Orthodontic Treatment

Did you know that your risk of tooth decay and gum problems may be higher while you are wearing braces?

https://ift.tt/2mmuBJS

Dental Care Before, During and After Pregnancy

Did you know that baby teeth begin to form three months into pregnancy? Here are dental care tips for expecting moms from our Pediatric Dentist Dr. Chantal Kengo.

https://ift.tt/2zJ4F4D

Does My Child Need Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a coating that the dentist puts on the grooves of your child’s back teeth to protect them.

https://ift.tt/2mm8PWH

What Is Dry Brushing and Should You Do It?

Have you ever heard of dry brushing and will it help clean your teeth better? Find out from dental hygienist Dulene Swanepoel today.

https://ift.tt/2uDQ0BI

“Help! My Child’s Teeth Are Rotting.”

Without efficient oral hygiene and guidance on proper diet and nutrition, a child’s teeth can decay, become discolored and even crumble.

https://ift.tt/2mjoWnN

Is it expensive to go to the dentist?

How expensive is it to go to the dentist? How do we avoid spending too much on our oral health?

https://ift.tt/2zJ4A0P

Nutrition and Oral Health Recommendations for Children

Children who consume a lot of refined sugars per day and receive inefficient oral hygiene are more likely to develop decay. Find out more.

https://ift.tt/2mm8QtJ

5 Common Myths About Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is a common procedure but there are quite a number of myths that surround it. Our specialist endodontist is here to set the records straight.

https://ift.tt/2uyWzFS

8 Common Questions About Root Canal Treatment

Today on Root Canal Awareness Week, our Root Canal Specialist Dr. Yasmin Al-Zoubaidy answers the most common questions patients ask about the treatment.

https://ift.tt/2mjOq4o

Post Wisdom Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Have you just had your wisdom tooth extracted? Find out what you can expect after your surgery and check out aftercare tips from Dr. Marwan Al-Obeidi.

https://ift.tt/2zEm5z6

Saturday, July 7, 2018

SCHEDULE HOLES? ALWAYS FALLING BEHIND? “WHY” THIS FIX WORKS.

Many businesses, large and small, have a huge source of great ideas that can help them improve, innovate, and grow, and yet so many of these companies never think of using this amazing corporate asset. What is this highly valuable asset? Its own people.

The post SCHEDULE HOLES? ALWAYS FALLING BEHIND? “WHY” THIS FIX WORKS. appeared first on ACT Dental.

https://ift.tt/2KUoWFy

Wednesday, July 4, 2018

Dental Implants Vs Dentures – A Comparison

Dental implants are made of titanium screws and metal which is fully compatible with the human body.  The dental implant itself is drilled into the jaw and bone socket. The process is completely painless as you are given a local anaesthetic and this will numb the whole mouth. Once the implant is inserted it needs to fuse with the bone. Thereafter it takes 5-8 months to fix the prosthetic tooth onto the implant.  Dental implants are very stable, as they have a root-like portion that fits into the bone socket, like natural teeth. People who have implant-supported artificial teeth can chew efficiently.The advantages of implants:

  • The titanium screws act like a root making the crown more stable
  • Some people can be allergic to the materials that are used to create dentures whereas implants are completely bio-acceptable
  • Speech is generally better with implants as dentures can be quite irritating and they have to be removed at night.
  • There are no sore points with implants as they do not move
  • Your ability to chew is completely restored

Disadvantages:

  • Dental implants do take longer to be fitted as opposed to a denture
  • Implants are more expensive
  • If you grind your teeth at night then implants may not be the best option for you

Dentures

Dentures are essentially false teeth and they are often made of materials like porcelain, acrylic or cast metal. They fit into the space where teeth have been lost. Before deciding on the right solution for you, your dentist will evaluate your current dental needs. When the decision is made, the teeth are then extracted and an immediate denture is fitted on the same day. Depending on each situation, the denture may need to be relined three to four months after the extraction.

To make dentures, your dentist will take impressions and moulds of your teeth and jaw, which are then sent away to a specialist laboratory technician. Your dentist can help you to decide on which tooth shapes, sizes and colours fit your mouth and suit you best. Once the dentures are sent back to your dentist, you’ll be contacted for an initial fitting and any necessary adjustments to ensure they are as comfortable as possible. You may be required to return for subsequent appointments to address any soreness and make further adjustments.

Advantages:

  • The process is fairly quick and simple
  • Same day dentures can be available
  • More cost-effective than dental implants
  • Recommended for patients with a weak jaw or gums
  • Dentures provide support to your facial muscles so that your teeth can maintain a more natural look

Disadvantages:

  • Without denture adhesive, dentures are susceptible to moving or dislodging while talking or chewing
  • Can cause some discomfort and be inconvenient
  • May cause some difficulty with eating and speaking
  • Require ongoing cleaning and maintenance as opposed to dental implants that can be cared for as natural teeth
  • Will take time in getting used to wearing dentures

Cleaning your dentures

If you have dentures, it’s important to keep them clean and leave them overnight in some denture solution, sterodent is the best solution to leave them to soak. Looking after them can be much easier than looking after your natural teeth, as you can take them out and have a good look to make sure you haven’t left any old food behind.

Implant Longevity:

A face without teeth can sag and can sink in. Dental implants allow you to maintain the natural shape of your face and smile. Adjusting to removable dentures can mean struggling to pronounce everyday words and also produce a lot of saliva. Dental implants allow you to keep your teeth in place and you won’t need to worry if your dentures might slip or fall out.

Dental Implants have a record of reliable, long term and successful outcomes and they are often considered more predictable than other treatments to repair or replace missing teeth, including bridge work, removable appliances and treatment of failing root canal therapy.

Dental implant surgery is usually carried out under local anaesthesia (numbing the area where the implant is to be placed) and is a relatively comfortable procedure. You may experience some minor vibration during the preparation of the implant (bone) site, but it is quite tolerable. Since there are no open wounds following implant surgery and it is minimally invasive, there is little post-operative discomfort. You will be given a course of antibiotics to take home and use over the following week.

A single implant usually needs to be left for a period of two to four months to fuse to the bone before a crown can be attached. The healing time will vary from person to person, but ultimately depends upon the bone density at the site of the lost tooth and the denser the bone, the quicker the healing. The next step is to make a crown to fit on the implant that will look and functions exactly like a normal tooth.

Cost: Implants usually start from £2095 (£1100 + £985) and from £65.00 (36 months)

Dentures are from £1250 and from £38.96 (36 months) and a reline is £195

Perfect Smile Spa based in Hornchurch Essex is a Leading Cosmetic and Implant Dental practice and is dedicated to PAINLESS dentistry. We work very closely with our prosthodontist who is on the specialist register.

Call us for a free consultation on 01708 442 114 or email care@perfectsmilespa.co.uk

https://ift.tt/2u5SYPs

Improving Your Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry

If you are on a low budget but want to improve your smile there are many ways to do this without having to spend a lot of money and going through drastic changes.

Teeth whitening: Whitening your teeth can be simple as chairside whitening. You can whiten your teeth in one appointment where you’ll be able to come into the practice and have them whitened with the ZOOM laser. The dentist will protect your lips and gums with a barrier and will place a special whitening gel on your teeth. All you need to do is sit back and relax and when the treatment is complete your teeth will look several shades brighter.

There is also another option which is the home whitening. This can be done in the comfort ZOOM laser   of your own home and has proven to be better, you’re able to see the progress each day and whiten them in your own time when convenient for you. You will have to come in to the practice so the dentist can take some impressions of your teeth in order for the whitening trays to be made.  Once you have the trays, you carry the home whitening out for 10-14 days for an hour each day.  Teeth whitening is completely pain free and the results have proven to be excellent.

Cosmetic contouring: Dental reshaping and contouring is a procedure to correct crooked teeth, chipped teeth, cracked teeth or even overlapping teeth in just one session. Contouring your teeth works wonders and the after results leave your teeth looking brand new without going through any drastic, painful treatment. It’s a quick and painless way to reshape your teeth and tidy your smile. Minor contouring and polishing can smooth small chips and fractures, reshape pointy teeth and redefine flat or worn teeth.

Cosmetic conCosmetic contouring before and aftertouring involves minimal discomfort and although only a subtle procedure, sometimes the smallest changes make a big impact. When combined with tooth whitening it’s often a great way to rejuvenate your smile. Dental contouring can even be a substitute for braces under certain circumstances. A few millimetres of reduction or expansion can create a beautiful smile when performed by a cosmetic dentist, usually without the need for an anaesthetic. However, teeth may become weaker if large amounts of enamel are removed so therefore tooth reshaping should be limited to minor changes or combined with veneers or bonding for the best smile.

There is also gum contouring if your gums sit too low or too high on your teeth and you are unhappy with your smile. Also called gum reshaping or tissue sculpting, this procedure can even out an uneven gum line and give you a smile you can be proud of. Gum contouring on its own is considered a cosmetic procedure; most people have their gums cosmetic contouring before and afterreshaped to improve the appearance of their smile. However, most of the time it is not medically necessary. Some people undergo gum contouring surgery as part of other necessary periodontal procedures such as crown lengthening, pocket reduction and regenerative procedures. A local anaesthetic will be applied to numb the area and, sometimes, bone at the front of the tooth’s root must also be removed to get the best long-term results.

Cosmetic bonding: Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth coloured resin material (a durable plastic material) is applied and hardened with a special light, which ultimately bonds the material to the tooth to restore improve a person’s smile. Dental bonding is an option that can be considered for repairing decayed teeth where the composite resin is used to fill cavities. To repair chipped or cracked teeth, to improve the appearance of discoloured teeth. They can also work as a substitute for a brace and close spaces between teeth. They also make teeth look longer and change the shape of teeth. They are a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings which contain mercury and that is poisonous. Also, they protect a portion of the tooth’s root that has been exposed when gums recede.

Little preparation is needed for cosmetic bonding, an anaesthetic is often not necessary unless the bonding is being used to fill a decayed tooth. Your dentist will use a shade guide to select a composite resin colour that will closely match the colour of your tooth. Next, the surface of the tooth will be roughened and a conditioning liquid is applied. These procedures help the bonding material adhere to the tooth and create a surface area. The tooth-coloured, putty-like resin is then applied, moulded, and smoothed to the desired shape. An ultraviolet light is then used to harden the material. After the material is hardened, your dentist will further trim and shape it and polish it to match the sheen of the rest of the tooth surface.

Cosmetic bonding before and afterDue to some of the limitations of dental bonding, some dentists view it as best suited for small cosmetic changes, for temporary correction of cosmetic defects and also for correction of teeth in areas of very low bite pressure such as the front teeth. Bonded teeth do not require special care. You must ensure you follow good oral hygiene and brush your teeth at least twice a day. Flossing is extremely essential and regular hygiene treatments and check-ups. It is possible for bonding material can chip, therefore it is important to avoid such habits as biting fingernails, chewing ice or other hard food objects. If you do notice any sharp edges or discomfort on a bonded tooth or if your bite feels uneven then call your dentist and arrange an appointment.

Perfect Smile Spa based in Hornchurch Essex is a Leading Cosmetic and Implant Dental practice and is dedicated to PAINLESS dentistry. We work very closely with our prosthodontist who is on the specialist register.

Call us for a free consultation on 01708 442 114 or email care@perfectsmilespa.co.uk

https://ift.tt/2tW5DVC

Want Perfectly Straight Teeth?

Want straight teeth?

http://www.dreamstime.com/royalty-free-stock-photos-beautiful-woman-smile-dental-health-care-clinic-image32541618There are various reasons why a person may be unhappy with their teeth. But the good news is that there are many ways to improve a smile using modern cosmetic dentistry!

Invisalign and Smilelign

Few people are lucky enough to be born with straight, asymmetrical teeth. More and more people are leaning about the benefits of the Invisalign and Smilelign System. It uses a series of clear, removable, plastic aligners which are customised and made specifically for your teeth. There are no metal wires or brackets. As your teeth move little by little, week by week, all you need to do it replace each aligner every two weeks. Over a period of six months to a year, the Invisalign system moves the teeth into their perfect position, resulting in a more beautiful, balanced smile.

invisalign-bracesThey are worn for the majority of the day. The aligners can be removed for short periods, making it easier to eat and brush than when wearing traditional braces, but should be worn for at least 22 hours a day. Results can be influenced by the patient’s dedication in wearing the aligners, the doctor’s experience, and the severity of the case.

The cost depends on the number of aligners you need to correct your smile. There are a number of advantages to the Invisalign brace including:

  • Appearance – Clear Braces Look Better.
  • Comfort – Clear Braces Can Be Removed When Necessary.
  • Safety – Clear Braces Reduce Damage to Teeth and Gums.
  • Knowing What to Expect – There are No Surprises (treatment plan is agreed prior to the aligners being made)

All in all, this orthodontic system offers distinct advantages over conventional metal braces. It costs slightly more, but is well worth the price.  The success of the brace is ultimately dependent on the patient’s habits and consistency in wearing them.

Over 3 million people have discovered the benefits of this brace system as they are comfortable, clear and removable –transforming your smile without disrupting your life.  

Six months smiles or fixed short term Cosmetic Orthodontics

Millions of adults, who are unhappy, self-conscious and embarrassed of their smile, are turning to fixed braces. Short term orthodontic treatment is now available and is a modern twist on tried-and-tested orthodontics.  Braces areone of the most widely used and highly effective methodof giving patients straight, healthy teeth and a beautiful smile.

This is a type of brace system which is able to re-position crooked or badly aligned teeth in a six month period – hence the name. It is a great choice of brace for anyone who needs some form of tooth correction but does not want to undergo treatment over a long period of time.But there are more benefits…

  • Clear brackets and tooth-coloured wires are barely visible – They are not completely transparent, and you will see them, but are hardly noticeable (smaller and lighter) compared to the metal type.
  • Use of braces has shown to provide the most conservative and predictable final result
  • Appointments are fast and comfortable.
  • Low forces and short overall orthodontic treatment times increase comfort, safety, and hygiene.
  • Typically less expensive than traditional braces, aligner therapy, or veneers.

This is a small, light and unobtrusive brace which can treat any of the following conditions:

  • Misaligned teeth
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Crossbite
  • Overcrowded teeth
  • Gaps between the teeth

Another benefit of the Six Month Smile is that it is relatively painless and cheaper than other types of braces.

This is not recommended for everyone and your suitability will be determined by your dentist.

Inman Brace

The Inman Aligner is the perfect solution for crowding or protrusion of the front teeth. It’s fast, very safe and great value. Your front teeth can be gently guided to an ideal position in a matter of weeks. Most cases complete in 6-18 weeks and because it’s removable you can take it out to fit with your lifestyle. 

Porcelain veneers

If you don’t like the idea of wearing a brace, you have the option of straightening your teeth with veneers.

A veneer is a thin layer of porcelain which fits over the front surface of a tooth, similar to how a false fingernail fits over a nail.

Veneers are a fast solution when improving the colour, shape and position of your teeth.

A veneer can make a chipped tooth look whole again or bright again if it is discoloured. The porcelain covers the whole of the front of the tooth, with a thicker section replacing the broken part. If you have small gaps between your teeth, veneers can be a good solution when orthodontics (braces) is not suitable. If a tooth is slightly out of position, a veneer can sometimes be fitted in such a way that it brings it into line with the other teeth.

Veneers make teeth look natural and healthy and can easily transform a smile.Very little preparation of the tooth is needed because they are very thin and are held in place by a special, strong adhesive. Some types of veneers don’t need any preparation at all.The amount of enamel removed is minimal and will be the same as the thickness of the veneer to be fitted, so that the tooth stays the same size.

Today porcelain veneers continue to gain popularity among dental patients. The ultra-thin, tooth-shaped porcelain can be securely bonded to patients’ existing teeth to produce symmetry, mask imperfections, and improve overall facial aesthetics.

Composite veneers

Composite veneers or Composite bondings are applications of composite dental material on to the teeth to improve the appearance or aesthetics of those teeth. They are used to change the colour, shape, and size of the teeth to make them more attractive.Normally they can be completed in one visit and require little or no preparation (drilling) to the teeth meaning they are less destructive, and more preservative than conventional porcelain veneers, which require the tooth to be cut down before placement. The resin material not only comes in various shades and can be matched to your tooth colour, but also the translucency and surface anatomy of your teeth, so your teeth can be restored with great results.To achieve excellent results, composite veneers are technically and artistically very demanding. They should only be done by a highly experienced dentist.

They last 4 – 8 years, and require maintenance (as they can chip). The cost is less – about half of a Porcelain Restoration.

Perfect Smile Spa based in Hornchurch Essex is a Leading Cosmetic Dentistry practice and is dedicated to PAINLESS dentistry.

Call us for a free consultation on 01708 442 114 or email care@perfectsmilespa.co.uk 

https://ift.tt/2u70MAn

How To Look Your Best Look After Your Smile

Important check-ups and hygiene visits

Dental ChekupA check-up allows your dentist to see if you have any dental problems and helps you keep your mouth healthy. If problems are left untreated, it could make them more difficult to treat in the future. It is therefore best to deal with problems early, or, if possible, prevent them altogether. A dental check-up or examination usually takes less than 30 minutes for routine check-ups and around 45 minutes to 1 hour for new patients.

Your dentist can carry out a thorough dental examination to check the health of your gums, which may involve inserting a thin metal stick with a bend in one end (periodontal probe) beside your teeth. Most adults in the UK have gum disease to some degree and most people experience it at least once. It’s much less common in children. Gum disease is caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky substance that contains bacteria. Some bacteria in plaque are harmless, but some are harmful for the health of your gums. If you don’t remove plaque from your teeth by brushing them, it builds up and irritates your gums.

If you have gum disease, your gums may bleed when you brush your teeth and you may have bad breath. This early stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. If gingivitis isn’t treated, a condition called periodontitis can develop. This affects more tissues that support teeth and hold them in place. If periodontitis isn’t treated, the bone in your jaw may be damaged and small spaces can open up between the gum and teeth. Your teeth can become loose and may eventually fall out.

Mild cases of gum disease can usually be treated by maintaining a good level of oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly. You should also make sure you attend regular dental check-ups.

In most cases, your dentist or dental hygienist will be able to give your teeth a thorough clean and remove any hardened plaque (tartar). They’ll also be able to show you how to clean your teeth effectively to help prevent plaque building up in the future.

If you have severe gum disease, you’ll usually need to have further medical and dental treatment and, in some cases, surgery may need to be carried out. This will usually be performed by a specialist in gum problems (periodontics).

If you have untreated gum disease that develops into periodontitis, it can lead to further complications, such as:

  • Gum abscesses (painful collections of pus)
  • receding gums
  • loose teeth
  • loss of teeth

Diet and erosion and decay

Everybody has a certain amount of bacteria in their mouth, good bacteria, and not so good bacteria. Every time we eat or drink, the sugars in the food reaA general view of dentist at workcts with the bacteria, causing what’s called an ‘acid attack’. The acid attack lasts up to an hour, so in this time your teeth are most vulnerable. The more acidic foods and drinks you eat, the more your teeth are at risk of getting cavities. We always advise to cut your acid/sweet foods down to meal times. You may ask why, the reason is, when you eat your meals, your teeth are naturally under attack, so if you want to eat sweets or fizzy drinks, it’s better to eat them with your meals, to cut down the frequency of the attacks.

Bacteria is plaque. Plaque is made from your saliva, food and sugar particles. It’s a sticky film which lays on all surfaces of your teeth. Plaque can be removed with a toothbrush, plaque also forms in-between the teeth, and this is why your dentist may recommend you using dental floss, or interdental aids. This is because your toothbrush cannot reach small areas in-between your teeth to remove the plaque.

If the plaque is not removed, its starts to form a hard layer, called calculus. Calculus cannot be removed with home aids such as a tooth brushing or flossing, so you will need to take a visit to your dentist, or dental hygienist, who will remove the hard calculus with special dental instruments. If the calculus is not removed, the calculus then eats away at the tooth’s supporting tissues, then creating tooth mobility.

How best to clean teeth

Brush your teeth for approximately two minutes last thing at night before you go to bed and on one other occasion every day. It doesn’t matter whether you use an electric or manual toothbrush, just as long as you brush all the surfaces of all your teeth. Remember to brush the inside surfaces, outside surfaces and the chewing surfaces of your teeth.

Some people find it easier to clean their teeth thoroughly with an electric toothbrush. If you’re using an electric brush, one with an oscillating or rotating head may work better than a manual toothbrush.

It’s important to use toothpaste with the right concentration of fluoride.

  • Adults – use toothpaste that contains at least 1,350 parts per million (ppm) fluoride.
  • Children – don’t need to use special “children’s toothpaste”. Children of all ages can use family toothpaste, as long as it contains 1,350-1,500ppm fluoride. Children aged six and under who don’t have tooth decay can use a lower-strength children’s toothpaste, but make sure it contains at least 1,000ppm fluoride.
  • Below the age of three, children should use just a smear of toothpaste. Children aged three to six years should use a pea-sized blob of toothpaste. Children need to be helped or supervised brushing their teeth until they’re at least seven years old.

After brushing, spit out any excess toothpaste. Do not rinse your mouth after brushing, as it will wash away the concentrated fluoride reducing its preventative effects. This will also happen if use mouthwash immediately after brushing. Choose a different time to use mouthwash, such as after lunch. Don’t eat or drink for 30 minutes after using a fluoride mouthwash.

Flossing isn’t just for dislodging food wedged between your teeth. Regular flossing may also reduce gum disease and bad breath by removing plaque that forms along the gum line. It’s best to floss before brushing your teeth.

You can use interdental brushes instead of flossing, especially if there are gaps between your teeth. The brush should fit snugly between the teeth.

Your dentist or hygienist can advise you on the best way to use interdental cleaning for your teeth.

Veneers

Looking after veneers is relatively simple.

  • Brush and floss as you normally would to prevent dental problems. A good home care regimen will insure the aesthetic success of your veneers for years to come.
  • If you are known to be a bruxer or clencher, i.e. you have a habit of grinding your teeth, please let your dentist know. He or she will provide you with a bite guard for you to wear to minimize the stresses placed upon your teeth while you sleep.
  • Regular maintenance and dental check-ups are recommended so that your veneers and oral health can be reviewed periodically.

Bridge/ crowns

It is important to keep the crown just as clean as you would your natural teeth. The crown itself cannot decay, but decay can start where the edge of the crown joins the tooth. Brush last thing at night and at least one other time during the day with a fluoride toothpaste, and clean in between your teeth with ‘interdental’ brushes or floss.

Your new bridge will probably be made of porcelain as this is the most natural – yet also durable – material and it should last 10-15 years as long as you look after it properly. You should clean your dental bridge twice every day, just as you would your normal teeth. This will ensure that food debris is removed and will stop bacteria from building up around it. Super flossing will help too and is recommended by dentists. Your dentist will be able to demonstrate to you how best to clean and look after your dental bridge.

Implants

You care for your implants the same way you care for your natural teeth. It is important to brush and floss daily. If you have any problems, see your dentist before your six- month recall visit. Regular hygenists visits are essential.

Dentures

Keeping your mouth clean is just as important when you wear dentures. You should brush your remaining teeth, gums and tongue every morning and evening with fluoride toothpaste to prevent tooth decay, gum disease and other dental problems.

It’s important to regularly remove plaque and food deposits from your dentures, because unclean dentures can also lead to problems, such as bad breath, gum disease, tooth decay and oral thrush.

Clean your dentures as often as you would normal teeth (at least twice a day – every morning and night). You should:

  • brush your dentures with toothpaste or soap and water before soaking them to remove food particles
  • soak them in a fizzy solution of denture-cleaning tablets to remove stains and bacteria (follow the manufacturer’s instructions)
  • brush them again, as you would your normal teeth (but don’t scrub them too hard)

Dentures may break if you drop them, so you should clean them over a bowl or sink filled with water, or something soft such as a folded towel.

Perfect Smile Spa based in Hornchurch Essex is a Leading Cosmetic Dentistry practice and is dedicated to PAINLESS dentistry.

Call us for a free consultation on 01708 442 114 or email care@perfectsmilespa.co.uk

Save

https://ift.tt/2u1QXVl

Top 5 Smile Makeover Options

Cosmetic DentistMost of us would improve something about our appearance if we could. Many people don’t like the appearance of their teeth or smile. In this article we will talk about the most popular smile makeover or cosmetic dentistry options.

1. Porcelain veneers 

A veneer is a thin layer of porcelain which fits over the front surface of a tooth, similar to
how a false fingernail fits over a nail.

Veneers are a fast solution when improving the colour, shape and position of your teeth.

A veneer can make a chipped tooth look whole again or if it discoloured. The porcelain covers the whole of the front of the tooth, with a thicker section replacing the broken part.

blog-braces-veneers2 If you have small gaps between your teeth, veneers can be a good solution when orthodontics (braces) is not suitable. If a tooth is slightly out of position, a veneer can sometimes be fitted in such a way that it brings it into line with the other teeth.

Veneers make teeth look natural and healthy and can easily transform a smile. Very little preparation of the tooth is needed because they are very thin and are held in place by a special, strong adhesive. Some types of veneers don’t need any preparation at all. The amount of enamel removed is minimal and will be the same as the thickness of the veneer to be fitted, so that the tooth stays the same size.

The costs for this treatment can vary from practice to practice so it is important to discuss charges and treatment options with your dental team before starting treatment.

It is important to understand that the process is not reversible. Veneers are more expensive than composite resin bonding. They are also usually not repairable should they chip or crack.

2. Composite bonding

Bonding is the application of a tooth-coloured composite resin to repair a decayed, chipped, fractured, discoloured tooth. It can make teeth appear longer, and as a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings. Bonding is a very quick solution to improve you smile, and results can be achieved in a single visit to your dentist.

Bonding is one of the easiest and least expensive cosmetic dental procedures. The composite resin used in bonding can be shaped and polished to match the rest of your teeth. Bonding is manly used to improve the appearance of a discoloured or chipped tooth. It also can be used to close spaces between teeth, to make teeth look longer or to change the shape or colour of teeth.

Bonding has other uses, such as a cosmetic alternative to fillings, or to protect a portion of the tooth’s root that has been exposed because of gum recession.

It is important to remember that resin used in bonding can easily stain, so tea, coffee, cigarette smoke and other substances should be avoided. To prevent/minimise stains, brush your teeth often and have them cleaned every six months by a dental hygienist.

 3. Invisalign

The treatment involves wearing a number of clear plastic orthodontic trays called aligners which are custom fitted to you. There are no metal wires or brackets. The aligners can be removed for short periods, making it easier to eat and brush than when wearing traditional braces, but should be worn for at least 22 hours a day.

Results can be influenced by the patient’s dedication in wearing the aligners, the doctor’s 10903921_878882655509036_8134749489272789168_oexperience, and the severity of the case.

The cost depends on the number of aligners you need to correct your smile. There are a number of advantages to the Invisalign brace including:

  • Appearance – Clear Braces Look Better
  • Comfort – Clear Braces Can Be Removed When Necessary
  • Safety – Clear Braces Reduce Damage to Teeth and Gums
  • Duration of Treatment – Clear Braces Straighten Teeth Faster
  • Knowing What to Expect – There are No Surprises (treatment plan is agreed prior to the aligners being made)

All in all, Invisalign offers distinct advantages over conventional metal braces. It costs slightly more, but is well worth the price.  This is the major disadvantage and obstacle to the Invisalign system is the cost, as more many people it is unaffordable.

The only significant issue for some people is the fact that the aligners are removable, and are therefore not correcting the teeth 100% of the time, only when they are in. As mentioned above, they should be worn for at least 22 hours per day, but the flexibility means that many people take them out more often. This can disrupt the treatment and may take longer to correct the teeth. The success of the brace is ultimately dependent on the patient’s habits and consistency in wearing them.

 4. Six months smiles or fixed short term Cosmetic Orthodontics

This is a type of brace system which is able to re-position crooked or badly aligned teeth in a six month period – hence the name. It is a great choice of brace for anyone who needs some form of tooth correction but does not want to undergo treatment over a long period of time.

It uses small brackets and wires which are tooth coloured (or white) so that it will blend inhttp://www.dreamstime.com/royalty-free-stock-photography-young-woman-smile-dental-braces-image30254637 with the rest of your teeth. They are not completely transparent, and you will see them, but are hardly noticeable (smaller and lighter) compared to the metal type.

This is a small, light and unobtrusive brace which can treat any of the following conditions:

  • Misaligned teeth
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Crossbite
  • Overcrowded teeth
  • Gaps between the teeth

Another benefit of the Six Month Smile is that it is relatively painless and cheaper than other types of braces.

This is not recommended for everyone and your suitability will be determined by your dentist.

Your speech may be affected to begin with which also increase salivation at that time. You may find that you have a tendency to drool when speaking. You may experience the brace bracket drubbing on your inner cheek, making it saw, but wax can be used to help this.

It is important to remember that this is a cosmetic type of brace which improves the appearance of your smile but does not address the orthodontic problem, e.g. an overbite.

A retainer will have to be worn for the rest of your life, to prevent your teeth moving back to their original position which can be off-putting for some people.

 5. Teeth whitening 

Tooth whitening is a very effective method of lightening the natural colour of your teeth without removing any of the tooth surfaces. It cannot make a complete colour change, but it may lighten the existing shade.

Teeth can easily look dull or discoloured with age or lifestyle habits. Teeth can be stained on the surface by food and drinks such as tea, coffee, red wine and blackcurrant. Smoking can also stain teeth.

Professional bleaching is the most popular method of tooth whitening. The treatment course can usually be done within two to three weeks. Your dental team will need to make a whitening tray and will take impressions for this at the first appointment. You will use these whitening trays at home (squeezing a bleaching gel into them) and regularly wearing the trays for 30 minutes to one hour at a time.

There is also another whitening technique, called laser whitening or ‘power whitening’. This is carried out at your dental practice, whereby a light or laser is shone on the teeth to activate the bleaching chemical. The colour change can be achieved more quickly using this method. Laser whitening is said to make teeth up to five or six shades lighter.

The cost of treatment will vary from practice to practice and region to region. Laser or power whitening is more expensive than home bleaching.

Your teeth should stay white for up to three years. However, this will vary from person to person. Results will last longer if you do not smoke, or eat or drink products that can stain your teeth.

Some people may experience sensitivity to cold during or after the treatment. Others may have discomfort in the gums, a sore throat or white patches on the gum line. These symptoms are more often experienced temporary and should disappear within a few days of the treatment finishing.

Gum Contouring

A Simple and safe procedure using laser technology to restore confidence in your smile. It treats uneven or excess gums by removing extra gum line. It has a fast healing process after the procedure is done and the results are instant. It can be combined with other cosmetic procedures like porcelain veneers or crowns can help even beautify your smile

Tooth-Coloured Fillings

Another good smile makeover option to replace your old silver and mercury fillings. It is impossible for others to find out whether you have done any dental work. The Filling material exactly matches to your existing teeth colour and is hard to distinguish. It is used to renew the way of decayed teeth looks.

 Botox and fillers

Botox is the UK’s number 1 treatment for Facial lines and Wrinkles. Safe, quick and can be combined with other treatments. It works by relaxing the dynamic muscles that are responsible for facial lines and wrinkles. It is painless and usually takes a few minutes to do.

Fillers are used to fill out or smooth wrinkles, lines or folds on your face that have been created by the loss of Hyaluronic Acid (elasticity) in the skin as you age. By restoring the volume to these areas your skin will look smoother and softer, resulting in a fresher and more youthful appearance.

Perfect Smile Spa based in Hornchurch Essex is a Leading Cosmetic Dentistry practice and is dedicated to PAINLESS dentistry.

Call us for a free consultation on 01708 442 114 or email care@perfectsmilespa.co.uk

https://ift.tt/2z8idGE

Would You Like Teeth in a Day?

These days’ people want ‘things done yesterday’. Unlike some things medical procedures cannot be rushed.

However it is possible these days to get teeth made in a day. In this article we will discuss the options of ‘same day teeth’ using dental implants and fixed teeth.

Dental implants are the most reliable source of filling in a gap or replacing an unhealthy tooth, if done correctly. They also have the highest longevity number compared to other treatment options, such as dental bridges and dentures. The dental implant is screwed into the jaw bone and either a crown or bridge can be placed on top of the implant, to give full restoration. Your dentist will match the color and shade in correctly for the color of your teeth and gums, so it will go unnoticed that you have a ‘false’ tooth. Previously in the implant world, the whole procedure to complete everything, from the implant the crown, took a few months to finish. As time has moved on and technology has evolved, thankfully we can now fit a dental implant in and crown on the same day as the dental extraction, so no need to wait for healing of the traumatized area anymore, no more walking around with unwanted gaps!

If you suffer from missing teeth, decayed teeth, or dentures that have never fitted comfortably, you will know that it can have a big effect on your confidence and self-esteem. The everyday things such as smiling or laughing can be daunting, constantly hiding your smile with your hand, or even not smiling at all! Nobody wants this; you should be able to smile freely to the world.

Yes, the dental implant is more expensive than other treatments, but you get what you pay for, and it’s an investment worth investing in, the affect it has on your whole lifestyle and how you feel is something you can’t say no too. And if money is a problem, why not pay monthly for your treatment? There is always a solution in finding ways around financial difficulties. You could pay from as little as 100 a month.

Now dentistry has moved on, as mentioned before, there is no need to wait months for the healing to occur after an extraction, as now we are able to place the implant in the jaw bone on the same day as the tooth has been removed. This is more convenient to the patient as it saves a lot of time, appointments, and you no longer have to walk about with gaps in your smile! You will walk out of the dentist with the biggest most confident smile you’ve ever had! Of Corse, you can never be too careful with procedures that are to do with your health, so for extra precaution, a temporary bridge/crown is fitted on the day of you minor surgery, instead of the permanent porcelain crown or bridge. This is just to be extra careful, and just to make sure the patient doesn’t have any issues with the implant or bridge, as you know, your body can sometimes reject foreign objects that its not familiar of. As your body heals from the extraction, you may notice a very small amount of bone loss, so when the permanent crown/bridge is fitted 3 months after the extraction. This means we can then get an extra precise fit for the crown, to the new shape of your jaw and gum.

Implant placement needs to be planned correctly, to make sure your treatment goes smoothly, and we do things at the best of your interest.

Radiographs and special scans will need to be taken of your jaw and mouth, so your dentist can measure the depth of your jaw, to know what he’s working with. This will tell your dentist if extra bone is needed for the implant to settle into, or if you have enough natural bone already. The scans also tell your dentist where is safe to place the implant, as you have lots of nerves in your mouth, and we want to avoid these.

On the day of your treatment, you will be given local anesthetic to numb the area, for pain free treatment. If you’re a nervous patient, a conscious sedation can be offered to relax you, for this option, you will need to be accompanied by somebody. Once you’re relaxed and unable to feel sensations in your mouth, your dentist and the team will then begin to start your treatment. From as little as one implant can be placed for a missing single tooth, or maybe you’re having multiple extractions, in this case you may need 4 to 8 implants, depending on your treatment plan. Once your implant or implants have been placed securely, your artificial teeth/tooth is then designed specifically for you and your smile, to make sure it looks as natural as possible, and to make the teeth as comfortable as possible. Once the teeth are all settled, they will almost feel like your natural teeth, and you will wonder why you didn’t have this treatment done years ago!

Same Day Implants for multiple missing teeth

In most cases, older patients have full acrylic dentures, or partial dentures. If these are nottooth-in-a-day-desc-min made properly, patients can suffer from discomfort from the dentures, as the hard acrylic can rub on the gums causing ulcers and sore irritated areas. They dentures can also be loose, causing them to move or even fall out when eating and speaking. With new technology, we are able to make special dentures that fit in with your implants, so your specially made new dentures will be able to anchor onto your implants, to create minimum movement as possible, the dentures will still be removable, when fitted in, they should feel as if they were fixed. In you have a full denture, at least 4 implants will need to be placed evenly across your bone, so then denture will be stable, with no rocking. Partial dentures possibly won’t need as many implants, depending on the patient’s case, as everybody is different.

What are the advantages of this technique?

It’s Fast: After the initial examination, the treatment takes place on a singlevisit.

Permanent: The implants are permanent. If they are looked after properly, they will last a lifetime.

Convenience: Unlike traditional implants methods in which healing takes a period of several months, same day implants have minimal impact upon the rest of your life.

Perfection: The artificial teeth are custom made to give you thesmile you’ve always dreamed of, no matter no matter what condition your teeth are currently in.

It’s Comfortable: The treatment is much less invasive than traditional implant treatment, and therefore causes much less pain.

Local Anaesthetic: This implant treatment can be performed using only local anaesthetic, a much safer prospect than the general anaesthetic which traditionally had to be used.

What are the disadvantages of this technique? 

  • Most dental implant surgeons cannot do this treatment – highly specialised.
  • Not all patients are suitable. There needs to be a good quality and amount of bone available.
  • The implant has to be placed into your bone.  Surgery is not without risks. Risks include, infection, prolonged bleeding, damage to other teeth, nerve damage, delayed bone healing, jaw fracture and many others.
  • A healthy person will recover more quickly from this treatment. It is a lot for the body to deal with in one day and therefore may be slightly painful for a while afterwards.

The price of same day implants vary from practice to practice and will be based on how much work needs to be done and the results the patient wishes to achieve. Although not a cheap treatment, this remarkable and truly modern form of dental treatment will give you a functional and beautiful smile in just one day!

Perfect Smile Spa based in Hornchurch Essex is a Leading Cosmetic Dentistry practice and is dedicated to PAINLESS dentistry.

Call us for a free consultation on 01708 442 114 or email care@perfectsmilespa.co.uk

https://ift.tt/2NrPTSH

Tuesday, July 3, 2018

ONE THOUGHT FOR FOURTH OF JULY WEEK

Many businesses, large and small, have a huge source of great ideas that can help them improve, innovate, and grow, and yet so many of these companies never think of using this amazing corporate asset. What is this highly valuable asset? Its own people.

The post ONE THOUGHT FOR FOURTH OF JULY WEEK appeared first on ACT Dental.

https://ift.tt/2KIgYPy