Treating Bruxism: What to expect?

what is bruxism

Diagnosis of bruxism

Bruxism can be diagnosed by the following gactors:

  • A positive history of stress and anxiety may be present.
  • A detailed oral examination by the dentist will enable him to exclude other disorders which may cause similar symptoms like temporomandibular joint disorders, ear infections, various dental diseases, etc.

Treatment of bruxism

  • As it is evident that stress is the main cause of bruxism, therefore it is important to effectively manage and control stress. If the sufferer is able to control his stress, the likelihood of bruxism bothering him can be reduced to a great extent. A number of procedures may help such as relaxation techniques, behavioral modifications, self-hypnosis, etc.
  • Dentist may also suggest proper positioning of the teeth and tongue to reduce bruxism.
  • Many cases of bruxism are benefitted by using a custom-made mouth guard which is worn during sleep. The mouth guard protects the teeth from damage and effectively reduces bruxism.
  • The ingestion of alcohol may be avoided as it may worsen bruxism.

Further measures to relieve pain and provide self-care are listed below:

  • Over the counter pain killer medicine.
  • Application of ice or heat to painful jaw muscles.
  • Avoiding intake of hard foods like nuts, candies, etc.
  • Relaxation of facial muscles by physical therapy.
  • Proper sleep.
  • Massage of sore muscles of the face, neck and head.

 

 

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Canker sores- What Are the Causes?

what treatment for canker sores

What exactly causes canker sores isn’t known yet. But, it’s a well-known fact that they are more common in females and can occur at any age- usually between the ages of 10 and 40 years.

It is believed that some bacteria or viruses are the culprits behind the occurrence of canker sores. Here are some of the other factors associated with the development of canker sores:

 

  • Injuries to the mouth during contact sports.
  • Accidental trauma to the lips or cheeks.
  • Due to burn caused by hot food or drink.
  • Intake of spicy or acidic food.
  • Allergic reaction to some food items.
  • Due to deficiencies of vitamin B12, folic acid, or iron.
  • Hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy or menopause.
  • Familial tendency.
  • Ill fitting dentures.
  • Broken and sharp tooth surfaces cause sores by rubbing against tissues inside the mouth.
  • Orthodontic attachments can cause canker sores when there is friction with structures inside the mouth.
  • Allergies to metals present in orthodontic devices.
  • Canker sores are thought to be associated with inflammatory bowel diseases like Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
  • Commonly seen in patients who are immuno-suppressed like AIDS.
  • Due to some ingredients present in the tooth paste like sodium lauryl sulphate.
  • Situations of emotional stress.
  • Tobacco chewing.

 

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Do You Know About Canker Sores?

what are apthous ulcers

Canker sores are painful lesions in the mouth. They are also known as Aphthous ulcers and do not spread from person to person.

Canker sores are small, round or oval sores inside the mouth. They are yellow or white in the centre and have a red outer border. The common sites of canker sores are upper surface, tip of the tongue, floor of the mouth; inner surfaces of the cheeks and/or lips as well as gums.

 What Are The Types?

  • Minor canker sores:

Characterized by less pain, size less than half inch and complete healing within two weeks.

  • Major canker sores:

Usually larger than half inch in size, are painful, have irregular margins, healing occurs in more than two weeks and leave a scar after healing.

  • Herpetiform canker sores:

A group of small sores form a large lesion and they last from a week to a month.

Know the Symptoms

  • Pain is a common symptom and is felt while the affected person is eating, drinking and talking.
  • Irritation, burning and tingling sensation is experience. Later, the appearance of lesions starts becoming obvious.
  • Fever may be present.

 

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What Do You Know About Tongue Thrust?

what is a tongue thrust

Tongue thrust or immature swallow is basically a condition that involves a problem with the behavioral pattern of human, with the tongue protruding through the anterior incisors while the sufferer eats, swallows or speaks. It happens even when the tongue isn’t being used for anything. Almost every child exhibits a swallowing pattern characterized by tongue protrusion, but this pattern eventually normalizes as the child turn around six years old. People with the problem of immature swallow do it naturally without being aware of their own behavior.

So, how does it affect your oral health?

The condition typically has some effects on the health of the teeth and mouth of the sufferer. On average, an individual tends to swallow from 1,200 to 2,000 times throughout a day, having around four pounds of pressure every time. In case of an individual suffering from tongue thrusting, the continuous pressure can result in the misalignment of teeth. This is perhaps the reason why most people suffering from immature swallow face the issue of open bites.  In fact, tongue thrust can even reverse a patient’s orthodontic work.

As far as speech is concerned, it is typically not affected by this abnormal swallowing pattern. However, the sufferer may develop a lisp, which is something that cannot be directly related to a tongue thrust.

 

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What Do You Know About Trench Mouth?

what is trench mouth

What Do You Know About Trench Mouth?

Trench mouth is basically a painful oral health problem that affects the gums, causing ulcerations of the gingival tissues. The condition is also known as Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis or ANUG and can be really serious if not treated on time.  One of the major culprits of this disease is poor oral hygiene as well as nutritional deficiency.

How to Tell If You Have The Condition?

The signs of ANUG start showing up suddently, worsening at a rapid pace in a short span of time. The initial signs typically are:

  1. Inflammation of the gums or painful gums
  2. Experiencing halitosis or having a foul taste in your mouth

Signs that start showing up later include the following:

  1. Gum irritation followed by bleeding of the gums
  2. Difficulty in chewing or swallowing foods
  3. Gums being affected by crater-like ulcers
  4. Appearance of a gray film on the gums, developed as a result of decomposed gum tissue.
  5. Damaged gum tissue surrounding the teeth. Gum tissues between teeth start getting infected and eventually die. In most cases, only the dead gum tissue remains.
  6. Head and neck having inflamed lymph nodes.
  7. Experiencing fever or fatigue.

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It’s My Child’s First Dental Visit

What many parents don’t seem to understand is the fact that their children’s oral health is just as important as their physical well-being. Once you’ve realized the importance of taking your child to the dental office, it is essential to make him/her understand that dental visits are fun and there is nothing to be scared or worried about. It’s normal for children to fear dental visits, but things get fine as your child develops a relationship with the dentist and becomes familiar with the cooperative staff at the dental clinic.

 

The ideal time to take your child for a dental check up

Experts suggest that children should ideally get an oral examination as soon as they turn three years old.  This is the time when the primary teeth are in the mouth with the child being at the earliest age to cooperate with the dentist during the examination. Although it’s a good idea to take the child to the dental office at the age of three, it is even better to make your child have a dental examination as soon as the first tooth erupts, which means that the child should be taken to the dentist when he/she is six to seven months old. Of course, this wouldn’t mean that a six-month old would be examined in that chair at the dental office; rather it would involve taking a look at what’s happening in the child’s mouth and giving useful advice on the maintenance of oral health.

 

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Thumb Sucking and Oral Health

Worried About Your Child’s Thumb Sucking?

Thumb sucking is a common problem in children, which is one of the many things parents fret about the most. While engaging in the habit occasionally is typically considered to cause no harm but there are times when the habit can turn into a problem.

In the majority of cases, children stop engaging in the habit by the time they are somewhere around two to four years old.  A child older than four who doesn’t discontinue the habit will require parental support and dental advice to control the situation. Did you know that prolonged thumb sucking can actually make a child have crooked permanent teeth? Therefore, consulting your pediatrician or dentist is important. Remember, dental issues are mostly avoided if thumb sucking is stopped before the eruption of permanent teeth.

What Can Be Done

Parents of children having this habit should begin with ignoring the behavior, which means that you shouldn’t pay any attention to your child while he’s busy in thumb sucking. Another way of dealing with the problem is putting an obstacle on the child’s hands. A sock or a glove could serve the purpose. Parents can motivate their children to quit on the habit by rewarding them for positive behavior.

Talking to the pediatrician or dentist is also very important in terms of getting useful advice and learning effective methods to help your child cope with the habit.

 

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Raising a Baby with Good Oral and Overall Health

Your baby's health is impotrant

Did you know that you can help your child develop healthy teeth and gums at a very early age? It’s all about knowing the right thing to do and saving your child from dental problems in the future.

It all stems from diet

We are what we eat and the same goes for our teeth! Yes, your child’s diet is very important. Experts believe that breast milk can play the key role in optimal development during the first six months of a baby, which of course implies to your baby’s oral health and tooth development as well.  Not many parents know this but juice and other foods aren’t as important as breast milk. Replacing breast milk with solid foods is a big mistake, especially during the first year of your baby’s growth.

Don’t underestimate immunizations

Immunizations can play the key role in protecting your baby from serious illnesses, like the prevention of measles, hepatitis as well as whooping coughs. Make sure that you’re in consultation with your pediatrician for planning an immunization schedule to keep your child healthy.

Rules are for your baby’s own safety

Using a car seat for babies is not just law, but it’s actually an important step to make sure that your baby’s health isn’t compromised under any circumstances. When it comes to installing the seat, make sure you have comfort level and baby’s size in mind.

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3 Things You Must Do For Your Child’s Health

Your child's health depends on you

Promoting oral health from the very beginning

When it comes to promoting good oral health practices at home, one of the most important steps is teaching your children about the importance of having healthy teeth and gums at an early age. Experts usually suggest parents to make a habit of wiping your baby’s gums each time he’s fed. Similarly, regular tooth brushing should be promoted during early years.

Consulting the dentist                                                                                   

Visiting the dentist every six months is also important to detect and prevent any dental problems in the future. Dental visits and examinations shouldn’t be delayed any longer than the first birthday of your baby.

Creating a safe environment for your baby                

The more you take care of your house’s environment, the better it is for your baby’s oral as well as overall health. If you’re a smoker, quitting on this injurious addiction is perhaps the biggest reward you could give to your baby (and even yourself). Did you know that breast milk (which is important for tooth development) from women who are smokers has dangerous chemicals in it? Babies who live in an environment that isn’t free from smoke have more chances of suffering from lower-respiratory illnesses, asthma and other diseases.

 

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Are you a victim of dental phobia?

Dental Phobia- What is it?

If you haven’t heard of the term dental phobia before, then you most probably have experienced the condition at some point without actually knowing that you were or are still a victim of dental phobia.  If you fear visiting the dentist or the sight of a dental office gives you goose bumps, then you certainly have a condition known as dental phobia or dental anxiety.  It’s quite common for people to fear visiting the dentist or having a dental examination, but we can’t ignore the fact that having regular dental checkups and proper dental treatment on time has a direct impact on our quality of life.

Now, is there a way you could fight dental phobia or cope with this unexplainable fear of dentists and dental examinations? If you’re a sufferer, you’ll be glad to know that there are certain ways to manage this phobia and fight your fears so that you can make sure that your oral health isn’t compromised. Here are some tips to help:

  • While you’re in the office, play some relaxing music to relieve dental stress.
  • Taking a distraction with you to the office is also a good idea.  While you’re waiting for the dentist to set things up, you could control your anxiety by reading a book or playing your favorite video game.
  • Have a good meal before coming to the dentist. Never come with an empty stomach.
  • Use relaxation techniques like deep breathing to make yourself more comfortable.

 

 

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What Causes Immature Swallow?

what is an immature swallow

Almost every child exhibits a swallowing pattern characterized by tongue protrusion, but this pattern eventually normalizes as the child turn around six years old. People with the problem of tongue thrust naturally have an abnormal swallow pattern, which causes the tongue to protrude through the anterior incisors while swallowing, speaking and even when keeping the tongue at rest.

What Causes The Problem?

There are a number of factors that contribute to the problem. One of the major causes of the condition is macroglossia or enlarged tongue. Thumb sucking and large tonsils are yet two other factors that have a connection with this condition. There are certain hereditary factors as well that can become the cause of immature swallow. Tongue tie, nasal congestion as well as allergies can make the tongue lie low in the mouth as a result of breathing obstruction, which certainly acts as another contributing factor to tongue thrusting.

What is the treatment?

Generally, two approaches are suggested for treating the condition. The sufferer has the option of placing an appliance like a night guard in the mouth during sleep hours or may consider wearing a permanent device that can be adjusted and removed by the dentist. Another option is seeking the help of habit training, which involves re-educating the muscles related to swallowing by altering the swallowing pattern. This is mostly performed by an experienced therapist.

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Childrens Toothpaste

childrens toothpaste

So, your child wants to brush teeth on his own? Well, there’s nothing wrong with that as long as your child’s using the right toothpaste to brush his/her teeth. A good way to make sure that your child is following proper oral hygiene practices is getting in afterward to clean the child’s teeth again yourself.

Experts suggest the use of non-fluoridated toothpaste for children who are less than five or six years old. A good way to determine the right age of letting your child use fluoridated toothpaste is checking if your child consistently spits out into the sink. Of course, you wouldn’t want your child to swallow toothpaste since children can swallow excessive amount of toothpaste every single day. Remember, understanding the actual balance between enough fluoride and too much fluoride is very important. Preferably, you should have your child drink fluoridated water as this will be good for teeth development until the child turns 18 of age.

Giving bottled water to children can be a source of oral health concerns as this water doesn’t have fluoride. Cooking at home with tap water also helps get a considerable amount of fluoride that a child might need.

 

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Children Brush Their Teeth

Children Brush Their Teeth

It’s very important for children to brush their teeth at least two times during the day with bedtime being the most ideal time to get hold of a toothbrush. But what if your child is a reluctant tooth brusher? Is there anything you can do about making him or her more comfortable with the entire experience?

Here are a few tips that’ll help you out:

  1. Be enthusiastic and encourage your child as much as you can! Young children love when they watch their Mum and Dad getting \ excited about tooth brushing.
  2. Giving children the chance to watch their parents brush their teeth from an early age is also a good idea for making them learn oral hygiene practices at a younger age.
  3. Repeated warnings should be given to remind the child that brushing time comes before bedtime.
  4. Never ask your child if he wants to brush his teeth. Just tell him that you’re going to brush his teeth or he should do it on his own.
  5. Try to get some colorful, fun-looking toothbrushes as many children prefer having toothbrushes that are either character-themed or have special features like flashing toothbrushes that actually function by lighting up for a minute.

 

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Sugar Free Gum For Teeth

Sugar Free Gum For Teeth

Here’s another reason to chew your favorite flavored sugar-free gum every day. Yes, chewing sugar-free gum can actually help decrease your chances of developing caries by stimulating the saliva production in your mouth. As a result of this stimulation, plaque acids that lead to tooth decay are neutralized.

Studies have shown that individuals who chew sugar-free gum three times throughout the day have lower chances of developing caries, thereby, reducing the risk by around 40% as compared to those who don’t follow this chewing practice.  For the enhancement of salivary protection during the dental caries attack, your mouth needs a stimulant‚ which is where a sugar-free gum comes into play.  Chewing the gum for around twenty minutes after having meals or snacks offers the stimulus required.

Because of the stimulated saliva flow in your mouth, sugars and damaging acids can be easily cleared from and around the teeth. Furthermore, the plaque microflora stops producing greater amounts of acid. Therefore, stimulated saliva plays an important role in reducing the overall caries susceptibility of the person chewing the gum. So the next time, you grab a pack of sugar-free gum for having a refreshed breath, think about the other oral health benefits your gum carries with it.

 

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Treatment for Canker Sores

mouth ulcers can be painful

Usually, canker sores do not need any treatment and heal on their own. But if they do not get better for more than two weeks, a dentist must be consulted.

Immediate dentist consultation is required for the following serious developments in the canker sores:

  • If the size of the sore increases more than normal.
  • If there is severe pain.
  • If the sores are associated with high fever.
  • If they begin to appear frequently.
  • If they fail to heal after two weeks.
  • If the sores get infected.

Once the dentist is consulted, he advises treatment according to the severity and type of canker sores. The treatment regimen includes pain killers, mouth rinses and antibiotics. Corticosteroid mouth rinses are also used in some cases

Any home remedies?

There are some home remedies which are of course, not an alternative for proper treatment but can help in relieving pain and discomfort.

  • Mouth rinses by salt and/or baking soda solutions in water. These rinses help by reducing the acidity in the mouth.
  • Application of hydrogen peroxide swabs on the sores as an antiseptic.
  • Milk of magnesia swabs reduce pain and promote healing.
  • Use of commercial, over the counter antiseptic mouth wash rinses.

 

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Surgical Procedures In Dentistry

Surgical Procedures In Dentistry

There are several dental conditions which require surgical intervention in addition to the traditional treatment methods. The surgical procedures are mainly performed on teeth, jaw bones and the surrounding structures.

So, what are the types?

The common surgical procedures are:

1.     Endodontic surgery: Surgery is performed on the root or pulp of the tooth.

Root canal surgery:

o   Pulpotomy. This is performed prior to root canal treatment. The pulp of teeth is opened and infected material is drained out.

o   Pulpectomy. Also performed prior to root canal treatment, the pulp of the tooth is taken out to relieve pain.

o   Apicoectomy. The terminal part of root in the jaw, known as apex, is resected in order to remove the diseased part completely.

2.     Prosthodontic surgery: Dental prosthetic procedures.

  • Crowns  (caps). Crowns are artificial tooth coverings made from ceramic, porcelain, metals, and their combinations.
  • Veneers. Crown like artificial coverings which only cover the front or visible surface of the tooth.
  • Bridges. Combination of two or more crowns used to replace missing tooth or teeth, in the form of a bridge.
  • Implant. Implant is made of titanium and is fixed surgically in the jaw at the site of missing tooth. After 4-6 months an artificial tooth is connected with the implant.
  • Dentures (false teeth). It is a set of partial or complete artificial teeth which replaces missing teeth.
  • Implant-supported prosthesis. A combination of dentures and implants used to replace missing teeth.

 

3.     Orthodontic surgery:

  • Implants and implant-supported prosthesis. It can be considered as orthodontic surgery as it is performed on the bones.
  • Apiectomy. A part of the underlying bone structure is removed.
  • Extraction. Removal of a diseased or problematic tooth by pulling or cutting out.
  • Fiberotomy. The fibers around a tooth are cut to prevent relapse.

 

4.   Periodontic Surgery:  

It involves procedures of the supporting structures of teeth which include the gingiva (gums), alveolar bone, and the periodontal ligament.

 

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What is Cheilosis?

What is Cheilosis?

While a smile can play an important role in alleviating stress, it can be a stress itself if there are cracks around a person’s smile. Yes, this is exactly what happens to people with cheilosis, which is also referred to as angular cheilitis. The condition involves cracking of the skin surrounding the mouth corners. It usually results from a yeast infection in the mouth region, which is known as candidiasis.

Who’s at risk?

People who wear complete or partial dentures

Individuals who are overweight

People suffering from diabetes

People with a low immunity

Tips to cope with Cheilosis

If you think you may have this condition or you’re at risk of developing cheilosis, you should follow these tips. Remember, the condition can be prevented and managed to a great extent with proper good denture habits.

  • Always make sure that your dentures are kept free of food.
  • Ensure regular cleaning of dentures and soak them at night, using a denture cleaner.
  • Make sure that you remove your dentures at night.

There are certain measures that can be taken to cope with dryness associated with cheilosis:

Make sure that you’re sipping water on a frequent basis.

Avoid smoking as much as possible.

Avoid alcoholic beverages.

Talk to your dentist or doctor about the use of a saliva substitute or some other medication.

 

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Loose Tooth? Tips To Help Your Child

Loose Tooth

Did you know that there is a tiny amount of tissue that is responsible for holding the baby teeth in place? You may have observed many children habitually wiggling a loose tooth with their tongue or fingers. This wiggling could be all it takes for the tooth to eventually fall out. So, how can you help a child with a loose tooth?

Pulling it Out

If a baby tooth is just slightly loose, it should be left alone unless more of the root starts dissolving. However, if a tooth is extremely loose but doesn’t come out, parents may help their child pull that tooth out. A tissue or a piece of gauze can be used for grasping the tooth firmly. As it is pulled, the tooth should be given a quick twist.

Looking for Signs of Problems

At times, there are certain fragments of the root that don’t dissolve completely and start breaking off and therefore, left in the tissue. The small fragments typically work their way out eventually. But the piece remaining in the tissue can be a cause of swelling, painful sensations, redness or other problems in the mouth. So, make sure that you watch out for any signs indicating a problem like that.

Lastly, make sure that your child gets examined by a qualified dentist, which will help you determine the right ways of maintaining good oral hygiene practices for your child’s well-being.

 

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All You Wanted To Know About Bruxism

All You Wanted To Know About Bruxism

Affecting around 10-50% of the population, bruxism or teeth grinding is defined as the clenching of upper and lower jaws along with grinding of both sets of teeth.

The sufferer grinds his teeth without actually realizing that he’s affected by the condition at a subconscious level. In most cases, the affected individual comes to know about the problem from others.

As mentioned earlier, Bruxism occurs mostly while the affected person is asleep. The clenching of jaws and the biting force is much more powerful than during the waking hours, resulting in severe damage to the cheeks, gums or other structures of the mouth.

Does it affect children?

Bruxism is a common occurrence in childhood. Children grind their teeth to get rid of the discomfort caused by other diseases like allergies, colds or ear infections. This phenomenon usually does not produce much damage and wears off as the child grows up.

The culprit?

The exact mechanism of the cause of bruxism is not fully understood. However, it is believed that STRESS is the main culprit behind this condition.

What are the signs?

Grinding of the teeth and forceful clenching of the jaws exerts pressure on muscles and tissues around the jaws, leading to problems of the temporomandibular (jaw) joint.

Loud grinding sounds can disturb the sleep of the partner.

The most common signs of teeth grinding are:

  • Damage to the teeth.
  • Injury to cheeks, gums, etc.
  • Fracture of the teeth.
  • Breakdown of the fillings.
  • Anxiety and stress.
  • State of depression.
  • Pain in the ear.
  • Headache.
  • Sensitivity of the teeth.
  • Sleep disturbances.
  • Pain in the jaw.
  • Problems in eating.

 

 

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Do You Have Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Burning Mouth Syndrome

Burning mouth syndrome is a condition that leads to a chronic burning sensation in the mouth. The pain may or may not have some effects on the gums, tongue and lips, as well as the roof of the sufferer’s mouth. The intensity of the pain ranges from mild to severe, as if the mouth has been scalded.

Know the Symptoms

As far as the signs of this condition are concerned, having scalding sensations on your tongue, lips, or within the mouth clearly indicates that you have the condition. In some cases, the pain develops in the late morning, which eventually builds into the evening while eases at night.

Here’s a list of some other signs:

  • Dryness or soreness in the mouth
  • Having a metallic or bitter taste
  • Having tingling sensations in the mouth or at the tip of your tongue

Know the Causes

Burning mouth syndrome can affect any person, but the condition is more likely to be found among women during menopause. It was once believed that burning mouth syndrome resulted from a mental disorder. However, today, it is thought that anxiety and depression can be contributors to the development of the syndrome but the condition may also result from coping with chronic pain.

Here’s a list of some other causes:

  • Changes in hormones
  •  Damaged nerves controlling pain and taste
  • Dryness of the mouth
  • Thrush
  • Heartburn
  • Poor nutrition
  • Improper fitting of dentures

 

 

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All You Ever Wanted To Know About Teeth Whitening

All You Ever Wanted To Know About Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening also known as tooth bleaching is the most sought after cosmetic procedure performed by a dentist. This is a relatively cheap procedure which greatly improves the appearance and look of the teeth.

Many people are uncomfortable with either the colour or the presence of stains or discoloured spots on their teeth. These individuals seek the help of the dentists to improve the look when they smile or talk. There are many modalities of teeth whitening procedures employed by the dentists today. These procedures can be performed at the clinic or at home.

Oxidising agents of various kinds are used for teeth whitening; they penetrate the enamel and produce whitening by bleaching the dentin.

A detailed dental examination is done prior to the teeth whitening procedure. The type of treatment and suitability of the candidate is also determined.

Types of teeth whitening procedures

In clinic procedures:  

  1. Power bleaching.
  • Quick (usually are completed within an hour).
  • Very effective.
  • Offer about 7-10 different shades of colors.
  • Many times better than commercial procedures.
  • Last for many years.
  • Expensive.

2. Laser teeth whitening.

  • Fastest.
  • Most effective.
  • Safest.
  • Most expensive.

At-home whitening kits:

  1. Bleaching trays (under dentist’s supervision).
  • Take several weeks to produce whitening effect.
  • Strength is lesser as compared to in-clinic procedures.
  • Last for 6-12 months.
  • Expensive.

2. Bleaching gels (under dentist’s supervision).

  • Effects can be seen within 2 weeks.
  • Less strong.
  • Expensive.

Over the counter teeth whitening methods:

Over the counter teeth whitening methods are cheap, convenient to use, and are designed for safe application at home. Their strength is much lower than those agents used in the clinic and so have lesser whitening effect and take a long time to get the desired results.

The various over the counter teeth whitening methods are:

  • Whitening trays.
  • Whitening strips.
  • Whitening tooth pastes.
  • Paint-on teeth whiteners.

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Choosing Between a Denture Brush and a Toothbrush

a denture brush is more useful for cleaning dentures

If you wear dentures, then you may find the need of opting for denture brushing. So, the choice is completely based on your needs for gum health maintenance, which calls for understanding how denture brushes  are different from regular toothbrushes.

 What about the head of the brush?

 The heads of denture brushes usually have two sides with bristles. On the other hand, regular toothbrushes just have a single side with bristles. One of the two sides of denture brushes goes well with a standard toothbrush and the other side has comparatively fewer bristles that are help the users to reach the dentures’ crevices.

The type of bristles it should have

 As dentures are quite delicate, the bristles of denture brushes are softer as compared to a regular toothbrush. However, denture wearers can also choose from toothbrushes that offer a variety in terms of bristle firmness, like hard, soft or medium.

 Caring for your brush

When it comes cleaning the denture brushes, you should preferably use a solution of water and bleach for cleaning cleaned, at least one time throughout the week. This can play an important role in preventing fungal growth on your brush. A good way of cleaning toothbrushes is soaking them in diluted castile soap every week.

 

 

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5 Habits That Can Damage Your Pearly Whites

5 Habits That Can Damage Your Pearly Whites

You might not know that some of your daily habits may be doing more damage to your teeth that you might think. Here are the five worst habits that can be responsible for your oral health problems:

1. Brushing Too Hard

Most people brush their teeth daily, but brushing your teeth too hard can damage your teeth. Brushing too vigorously can irritate the gums; wear down enamel, cause tooth sensitivity and cavities. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently to avoid these oral health problems.

2. Avoid Tooth Grinding and Jaw Clenching

A lot of people grind their teeth or clench their jaw when they are angry or stressed. Teeth grinding can lead to micro-fractures or even actual fractures in the teeth, making your teeth more susceptible to damage. Moreover, tooth grinding and jaw clenching can damage dentures or other dental work.

3. Don’t Crunch Ice

According to an experienced dentist at a dental implant clinic UK, crunching ice with your teeth can cause serious damage to the teeth.

4. Don’t Bite Your Nails

Individuals who bite their nails not only damage their teeth but also increase their risk for developing certain health conditions. Biting your nails regularly can cause the tooth enamel or teeth to break.

5. Avoid Soda

Carbonated beverages are not only hazardous for your health but they can also cause serious oral health problems. Sodas and other carbonated beverages have a high acid content that can corrode your enamel and cause tooth decay.

Make sure to maintain a good oral hygiene and schedule regular dental checkups at a dental implant clinic UK to keep your dental health in check.

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What Do Your Teeth Say About Your Health?

your teeth and your general health are connectedDid you know that your oral health has an indirect connection with your chances of developing certain diseases and health conditions?

Endocarditis

There are certain gum diseases that can severely damage your gums while allowing bacteria to get into your bloodstream. In case, a person has a damaged heart valve or a weak immune system, a gum disease can even lead to an infectious disease in other body parts like endocarditis, which is an infection of the heart’s inner lining.

Heart Problems

Recent research has revealed that cardiovascular diseases, clogged arteries as well as stroke may have a link with oral bacteria, perhaps because of chronic inflammation resulted from periodontitis , which is a serious gum disease.

Pregnancy and birth issues

Now, many people might not know this but several studies have revealed a strong connection between gum disease and premature birth as well as low birth weight.

Diabetes

Diabetics typically have a reduced body resistance to infection, which puts the gums at risk. Moreover, people having insufficient control of blood sugar are more likely to develop severe gum infections. These people also have increased chances of losing more teeth as compared to people having adequate blood sugar control.

HIV/AIDS

Oral health issues like painful mucosal lesions are commonly experienced by people having HIV/AIDS.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a health condition that weakens the bones in the body and the condition may have some link with periodontal bone loss as well as tooth loss.

Alzheimer’s disease

There aren’t many people who know that tooth loss before a person turns 35 increases his chances to develop Alzheimer’s disease.

 

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Dry Socket

what causes a dry socketWhat is dry socket?

Alveolar osteitis or dry socket is characterized by a painful oral condition that can take place after a permanent adult tooth extraction. The condition takes place when blood clot at the area of tooth extraction has dissolved or dislodged before the healing of the wound. Dry socket usually occurs after tooth extractions and the pain begins 1-3 days following the extraction. Schedule an appointment with a dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic for the treatment of this painful medical condition.

What are the symptoms of dry socket?

Symptoms of dry socket include:

  • Visible bone in the socket
  • Sharp pain after a few days of a tooth extraction
  • Total or partial loss of blood clot at the area of tooth extraction
  • Pain radiating from the socket to the eye, ear, neck or temple on the same side of the face as the tooth extraction
  • Foul odour or bad breath coming from the mouth
  • Swelling of lymph nodes around the neck or  jaw
  • Unpleasant taste in the mouth

What are the risk factors of dry socket?

Factors responsible for increasing your chances for developing dry socket include smoking, use of tobacco, oral contraceptives, improper at-home care, gum or tooth infection and having a history of dry socket.

Make an appointment with an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic if you notice any of the symptoms of dry socket.

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Mouth Cancer: What Could Mean That Things Are Serious?

what causes mouth cancerWhat many people don’t know about mouth cancer is that it is mostly missed in the very early stage.

The condition can be developed on the lips, gums, tongue as well as the mouth’s roof and floor. Alcohol addiction, smoking and/or extreme sun exposure can lead to the development of this type of cancer. Mouth cancer can be a serious problem, affecting daily habits like eating or talking.

So, how can the condition be detected based on early warning signs? Well the first thing that is considered as a warning sign is skin changes of the mouth. A lasting sore is yet another factor that is taken into account , and so is a sore that takes long to heal or keeps coming back. According to the dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic, signs like the presence of a thick patch of skin and red or white patches on the mouth’s inside are also linked with mouth cancer. If these symptoms aren’t caught on time, a surgical procedure may be carried out to remove the cancer.

Dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic also believe that patients beginning to experience changes in the way they feel when biting down, or patients experiencing loose teeth, need to be checked for cancer immediately.

If you’re wearing dentures and you suddenly realize that they’re getting looser or they are slipping more often, you should get checked for mouth cancer. Sometimes, pain in the throat, gum or tongue may indicate the presence of cancer. Therefore, regular dental check-ups are extremely important as dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic screen for early symptoms of oral conditions including cancer each time you have your pearly whites checked.

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What Can You Do To Prevent Bleeding Gums?

What Can You Do To Prevent Bleeding Gums?Brushing Is Essential

Just as brushing your teeth is important for removing plaque, it is also important to prevent problems like bleeding gums. Some people think that brushing their teeth while they’re experiencing bleeding gums will worsen the condition. However, the truth is that avoiding to brush your teeth will be more to your gums as well as. You may consider using a softer toothbrush if required to reduce your chances of bleeding gums. But discontinuing brushing your teeth is a bad idea. You can also strengthen your gums by massaging them with an electric toothbrush.

How Often Do You Floss?

Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth on a regular basis. Flossing plays an important role in removing plaque and bacteria that buildup overtime and eventually lead to tooth decay as well as gum disease.

H20

Water, water and water! That’s what the world’s talking about when it comes to preventing health, skin and now dental problems. Drinking water plays an important role in washing food particles away and keeping them from accumulating in between teeth. This can be particularly useful when it isn’t possible to brush your teeth right after having a meal. Therefore, you should drink plenty of water after having your meals for removing bacteria from gums and teeth.

Mouth Wash

Using a mouthwash is also helpful in removing harmful bacteria from your mouth while preventing the accumulation or buildup of plaque.

Tame Your Sweet Tooth

It is also essential to control your intake of sugar. By eating healthy and including a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Sugar present in sweet snacks and carbonated drinks result in tooth decay.

In addition to following these tips, you should also have regular appointments with your dentist at Brighton Implant Centre.

 

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Tartar And Your Teeth

poor oral hygiene and tartar formationCalculus or tartar is hardened plaque on your teeth. Tartar can be formed underneath or at the gumline and may irritate your gum tissues. Due to tartar, plaque grows on more surface area, which can result in more serious oral health conditions, such as gum disease and cavities.

Tartar formation not only threatens your oral health but it can also lead to a cosmetic problem. Being more porous, tartar easily absorbs stains. So, if you love sipping coffee or tea, or if you are a smoker, it is very important to take measures to prevent tartar formation.

Tartar is characterized by a mineral formation that is quite easily visible if it is built up above the gumline. If you have tartar built up on your teeth, you are most likely to see brown or yellow color on your teeth or gums. You should consult a specially trained dental professional at Brighton Implant Clinic to get rid of tartar.

Maintaining a proper dental hygiene can help protect tartar formation. This includes brushing with tartar control toothpaste and flossing on a daily basis to prevent plaque and tartar formation.

Once tartar has built up, it is only a professional dentist who can remove it. A dentist uses a process known as scaling to remove tartar from your teeth. Scaling requires the use of special instruments to eliminate tartar from the teeth.

 

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How Are Diabetes and Dental Health Related?

diabetes is directly related to dental healthNo doubt, proper oral care is essential to maintain a good overall health. And when it comes to diabetics, tooth and gum problems can be deemed more serious than a healthy person. This is why; proper dental care is just as important for the patients of diabetes as it is for a person who is already in good health.

Whether you’re a patient of type 1 diabetes or type 2, it is essential that you know how diabetes has a direct connection with dental problems including gum diseases.

Gum diseases are a common form of infection that results from the formation or accumulation of bacteria within your mouth. The bacteria build up as a sticky plaque that sits on your tooth’s surface for as long as the problem is not treated.

As time goes on, if you don’t remove these bacteria by regular brushing while adopting appropriate dental care practices, gingivitis may develop which is an inflammation of the gums.

Two common signs of gingivitis are swollen gums and frequent bleeding which results from brushing. Usually, severe gum diseases stem from untreated or undiscovered gingivitis, causing the teeth to decay.

For the patients of diabetes or people having high blood glucose levels, any infection that is present in or on the body tends to spread more quickly and easily. Patients can reduce their chances of spreading the infection by keeping their blood glucose levels under control.

What usually happens is that when your body starts fighting an infection, your blood glucose levels also start increasing. And as the infection worsens, your food intake is most likely to be affected, which further worsens your diabetes.

Thrush of the mouth is yet another problem that is common among patients who have poor blood glucose control.

 

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Oral Health Tips for Diabetics

Oral Health Tips for DiabeticsFor the sufferers, diabetes results in the buildup of excess cholesterol in the bloodstream. And when you also have an untreated gum infection, the condition worsens and the bacteria from your affected gums make their way into the bloodstream. As a result, your arteries are clogged at a much faster rate.

Therefore, looking after teeth and gum health is extremely important for diabetics, which also calls for frequent visits to a professional dentist.

Proper tooth brushing

Did you know that brushing your teeth regularly is just as important as using a quality toothbrush for the brushing routine? Ideally, your toothbrush should have soft nylon bristles that come with rounded ends. The application should always be gentle and your toothbrush must feel comfortable in your hand.

What to look for in your toothpaste?

You should consider using toothpaste that has fluoride since it plays an important role in strengthening your teeth. Using an anti-bacterial mouthwash is also good for oral health.

Food Restrictions for Oral Hygiene
Your diet controls both your oral and overall health. If you take a balanced diet and avoid sugary foods, you’ll not only be sparing your teeth but you’ll also be keeping your blood sugar levels under control. Avoid smoking as well since it tends to speed up the development of gum disease, which eventually leads to tooth loss.

How Dentists Can Help

It is important that you visit your dentist at least every six months so that serious dental issues can be prevented. At Brighton Implant Centre, our dentists conduct through examinations in order to detect and treat any oral infection. We understand that even a minor dental problem can escalate. Our professional dentists try to address all concerns of our patients while giving advice on issues as common as selecting the right type of toothbrush or toothpaste.

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Dentures

removable full denturesWhat are dentures?

Dentures are removable devices which are used to replace missing or lost teeth. There are two types of dentures: complete and partial. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing; and partial dentures are used when there are some remaining natural teeth.

Complete dentures provide replacement for the whole set of teeth. They are again categorized in two types; conventional and immediate. In case of conventional dentures, 8-12 weeks are allowed for complete healing after the removal of teeth; while the immediate type is applied immediately after the removal of teeth. Partial dentures as the name implies, are used in the presence of some natural teeth. They are made by using a metal framework which is placed in a gum-coloured plastic base.

How are dentures made?

The process of making the dentures involves several visits to the dental clinic and takes around 3-6 weeks to complete. The first step involves determining the appropriate type, and taking measurements as well as impressions of the jaw. It is followed by making models or wax forms; which are tried several times by the client. Once the dentist at a dental implant clinic is satisfied, final denture is created. Even after placement of dentures, a few adjustments are required.

What are the benefits of dentures?

The major advantages of dentures include regaining of the ability to chew food, restoration of the facial contour and appearance and improvement in speaking proper words and phrases.

What are the problems associated with dentures?

Common problems associated with dentures include excessive saliva production for a couple of days, loss of taste and difficulty in chewing or talking in case of a loose-fitting denture.

 

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Tongue Piercing and Your Oral Health

Piercing and Your Oral Health

So, you’re all set to follow the latest trend of getting your tongue pierced with those shiny studs and barbells. But do you know that piercing can seriously affect your dental as well as your overall health? So, what are the risks of getting your tongue pierced?

Your teeth may get chipped

Yes, piercing can chip your teeth. There are many instances where the person getting tongue piercing chips the teeth as he/she talks, chews or sleeps with the tongue jewelry on.

Swollen Tongue

What could be worse than having a swelling in your tongue as a result of piercing? At times, the same swelling can result in closing off the airway while preventing breathing. Some people have even choked on tongue jewelry.

The risk of infections

As your tongue has a lot of bacteria, an infection in the oral cavity can follow serious infectious diseases. What if the needle used for piercing isn’t sterile? Do you know that using unsterilized needles carries the risk of contracting diseases like hepatitis and HIV?

What about allergic reactions?

Yes, there are cases when tongue piercing can lead to allergic reactions as many people react to some metals.

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What is Pericoronitis?

what are the causes of pericoronitisPericoronitis is characterized by a dental condition wherein the gum tissue around your molar teeth becomes infected and swollen. This condition typically occurs because of wisdom teeth, the final set of molar teeth that a majority of people experience in their late teenage years or sometimes in their early twenties.

Causes of Pericoronitis

Pericoronitis occurs when your wisdom teeth partially erupt through the gum as a result of which bacteria enter around your tooth, causing an infection. Plaque or food might get caught under a gum around your tooth. If not removed, it can create gum irritation and result in pericoronitis. If this condition is severe, the infection and swelling might extend beyond your jaw to your cheeks as well as neck.

Symptoms of Pericoronitis

The signs and symptoms of pericoronitis include:

  • Infection
  • Pain
  • Gum tissue swelling (caused due to accumulation of fluid)
  • Difficulty opening your mouth
  • Swollen lymph nodes in your neck
  • Unpleasant taste in your mouth

Diagnosis of Pericoronitis

A dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic will check your wisdom teeth to see any signs of pericoronitis. The dental professional may require a dental X-ray periodically to check your wisdom teeth’s alignment. Make sure to schedule regular dental checkups to identify  any symptoms such as infection or swelling.

 

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How Can I Strengthen My Teeth And Gums?

what should you do for healthy teeth and gumsHere are some effective tips that’ll help you strengthen your teeth and gums:

Regular Brushing                                                                                                   

While just about everyone knows about the importance of brushing teeth on a regular basis, there are a very few people who develop the habit of brushing at least two times a day. Not only does this habit avoid the buildup of plaque but it also protects your gums from certain diseases.

The Dos and Don’ts of Your Diet

-       Did you know that good oral health has a strong connection with the foods that you consume? There are certain foods and beverages that are high in acid or sugar and aren’t good for your teeth. While natural sugars like those present in vegetables and fruits are good, foods that contain refined sugars like those present in colas or candies are extremely hazardous.

-       Another important step is to manage your diet by including foods that play an important role in promoting growth in gums and teeth. Dairy foods like yogurt, milk and cheese are rich in calcium that plays an important role in strengthening the teeth.

-       Research has shown grapefruit is beneficial for keeping your gums strong. Moreover, fruits like kiwis, cranberry and lime also improve your oral health by killing oral bacteria.

-       You may also consider using supplements to maximize the benefits acquired from a proper diet. There are some fluoride supplements that are aimed at strengthening teeth by rebuilding teeth enamel.

Visiting Your Dentist

A very important step toward the health and strength of your teeth is to schedule an appointment with your dentist every six months. At Brighton Implant Clinic, our qualified dentists conduct a thorough teeth examination in order to detect any weakness in your gums or teeth.

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Malocclusion – What You Should Know

Malocclusion can be treated by orthodontic meansWhat is malocclusion?

Malocclusion is a condition characterized by having a poor bite or crooked teeth. Malocclusion can be corrected by orthodontic treatment. Specially trained dentist make use of various tools and techniques to treat this condition by moving teeth and the jaw to line them up correctly.

Causes of Malocclusion

Teeth having too little or too much space in the jaw cause malocclusion. Thumb-sucking, tooth loss and use of a pacifier are among the other causes of malocclusion.

Symptoms of Malocclusion

The most common symptom of this condition is crooked teeth or teeth that stick out. This condition can be mild or severe. Usually, people who have crooked teeth don’t like the way they look and want the condition to be cosmetically corrected. However, if severe, malocclusion can create it difficult to speak or eat.

Diagnosis of Malocclusion

Normally, an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic looks for malocclusion in kids during regular dental checkups. In case the teeth or jaw is out of line, your dentist might suggest you to seek help from an orthodontist.

Make sure to start scheduling regular dental checkups for your child at the age of 12 months as it will help detect any early oral health problems.

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What are Canker Sores?

what are canker soresCanker sores or aphthous ulcers are characterized by shallow, small lesions which form on the soft tissues present in the mouth as well as at the base of the gums. Canker sores are not contagious; however, they are extremely painful and can make talking and eating difficult.

Usually, this condition goes away within 1-2 weeks. Consult an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic if you experience unusually painful or large canker sores.

Usually, canker sores are oval or round with a yellow or white center and a border that is red in colour. Canker sores form inside the mouth — on or under the tongue, inside the lips or cheeks, and at the bottom of the gums. A burning or tingling sensation may be felt a day or two before the appearance of the sores.

Kinds of Canker Sores

There’re several kinds of canker sores, including:

Minor canker sores
Minor canker sores are the most common type of canker sores: These canker sores are:

  • Oval shaped
  • Less than 12 millimeters, or 1/2 inch in diameter
  • Heal without scarring in a week or two

Major canker sores
Major canker sores are the less common kind of canker sores and are:

  • Greater than 12mm, or 1/2 inch in diameter
  • May require around six weeks to heal as well as leave scarring
  • Have irregular edges

Herpetiform canker sores
Herpetiform canker sores are typically experienced later in life:

  • Have irregular edges
  • Aren’t bigger than 3mm or 1/8 inch in diameter
  • Heal with no scarring in a week or two
  • Often take place in clusters of ten to hundred sores

Other symptoms of this condition include:

  • Listlessness
  • Fever
  • Swollen lymph nodes

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Your Diet and Your Oral Health

your diet plays an important role in oral healthDiet as well as other lifestyle factors that affect your dental health, include:

Sugar consumption:

Consuming high sugar foods can lead to gum problems and tooth decay. Sugar consumption allows bacteria to attack your teeth and gums, resulting in plaque buildup. If not removed, this plaque buildup causes tartar to form on your teeth, which can only be removed by a dentist at an Implant Clinic UK.

Smoking:

According to an experienced dental care expert at Brighton Implant Clinic, smoking cigarettes, cigars and pipes can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and oral cancer. Moreover, smoking products that contain tobacco can cause gum disease and pharyngeal or throat, cancer. Smoking can stain the teeth, making them look and feel unhealthy.

Drinking alcohol:

Alcohol consumption also contributes to dental health problems as it causes dehydration in your mouth. A dry mouth allows bacteria to attack the teeth and gums, leading to many oral health conditions According to research, alcohol consumers are less likely to maintain a good oral hygiene.

Medication:

Certain medications, such as some antibiotics, can lead to internal staining of the teeth, gum infections and tooth decay.

Changes in weight:

Weight loss or gain can affect the way your dentures fit. In order to have a good oral health, it is very important to maintain a healthy weight. Eating a diet that includes high-fibre vegetables and fruits can help you not only fight tooth decay but also maintain a healthy weight.

Make sure to visit an experienced dentist at a Dental Implant Clinic UK regularly to maintain a good oral health.

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Flossing for Oral health

using dental floss is an important part of daily dental hygieneA toothbrush is not enough for cleaning under the gumline or tight spaces between the teeth. That is the reason flossing on a daily basis is extremely important. Here are a few things that you should remember when flossing:

  • Floss one tooth at a time

Use your forefingers and thumbs to pull the dental floss from the gum line to the tooth’s top to scrape the plaque off the teeth. Rubbing the floss against each side of your tooth can also help.

  • Don’t skimp

Use 18 inches of the dental floss. Wind most part of the dental floss around your middle finger, and the remaining part of the floss around the other hand’s middle finger — leaving approximately 1 inch to floss the first tooth.

  • Keep it up

In case you experience trouble getting dental floss through the teeth, use the waxed variety. You can also make use of an interdental cleaner like dental stick or pick or a floss holder made to clean between your teeth.

Use an antibacterial mouthwash together with brushing and flossing your teeth on a daily basis to remove plaque between the teeth. An oral irrigator can also be used to get rid of the food particles between your teeth.

Consulting a Dentist

Scheduling regular dental checkup is extremely important to preventing gum infection as well as other dental health problems. You should contact a professional dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic, if you experience any symptoms that could indicate dental health conditions, such as:

  • Bleeding gums when you floss or brush
  • Tender, swollen or red gums
  • Loose permanent teeth
  • Gums that recede from the teeth
  • Changes in alignment of the top as well as bottom teeth with each other
  • Sensitivity to cold and hot
  • Unusual taste in the mouth or bad breath

Always remember that early detection as well as treatment of problems with your mouth, teeth and gums can help promote a lifetime of good dental health.

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Dental Pulp

anatomy of a natural toothThe pulp chamber or pulp is characterized by the soft place within the tooth’s centre. The nerve of the tooth is situated within the tooth’s root canals, which are situated within the roots of the tooth. The nerve of a tooth is not vital to the health a tooth and works after the emergence of tooth through the gums. It provides the sensation of cold or hot. However, the absence or presence of a nerve doesn’t affect the daily functioning of your tooth.

When the pulp or nerve tissue of your tooth is damaged, bacteria start to multiply and grow within the pulp. The bacteria as well as certain other decayed debris can cause an abscessed tooth or infection. Abscess tooth is a pus-filled pocket which takes place due to the spread of infection to the end of the tooth’s roots.  The pulp or nerve of a tooth can become inflamed, infected and irritated due to large filling, repeated dental procedures, face trauma, deep decay, a chip or crack in the tooth.

Signs that show you might require a root canal include:

  1. Pain in the tooth when chewing or applying pressure
  2. Darkening (discoloration) of the tooth
  3. Prolonged pain/ sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures
  4. Tenderness and swelling in the neighboring gums
  5. A recurring or persistent pimple on your gums

Visit a specially trained dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic if you notice any of these symptoms.

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Steps To A Bright Smile

Steps To A Bright SmileHaving the Hollywood smile is what every person wishes for. But a very few of us know that bright white teeth can only obtained if we maintain a good oral hygiene. Here are some ways that can help you get those pearly whites:

Regular Brushing:

Brushing your teeth with toothpaste that has fluoride in it will not only provide you a brighter smile but it will also help you prevent serious oral health conditions. Proper brushing removes plaque buildup and cleans the teeth. A professional dentist at a dental implant clinic UK has advised to use a soft-bristled toothbrush as it helps prevent many dental problems.

Regular Flossing:

Brushing alone is not enough. You should floss your teeth on a daily basis to remove food particles that get stuck between your teeth. People who floss regularly keep gum diseases at bay.

See your dentist:

Schedule regular dental checkups as it helps your dentist spot any signs of oral health condition. If you already had a gum disease in the past, pay more attention to your dental hygiene and make an appointment with your dentist every four to five months.

Don’t Smoke:

Smoking is hazardous for your teeth as well as your overall health. Smoking can increase your risk for developing oral cancer, including gums, cheeks, tongue and lips.

Eat healthy:

Take a diet that is rich in fibre and calcium. Calcium strengthens the teeth and bones and it important to maintain good oral health.

Go for cosmetic procedures:

Having a chipped or crooked tooth can lower your self-confidence. With the advancement in cosmetic dentistry, you can now easily get your tooth fixed. Consult a specially trained dentist at a dental implant clinic UK to get your dental problems fixed.

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Can Blood Thinners Cause Bleeding Gums?

Aspirin and warfarin can cause bleeding gums

There’re many causes of bleeding gums, but you should know that blood thinners can also cause the gums to bleed. Blood thinners are medications that are necessary for a lot of people as they help prevent blood clots. Certain blood thinners are prescribed to be taken on a long-term basis, while some are taken for just a few weeks.

Make sure to discuss about these blood thinning medications with your dentist before scheduling an appointment at Brighton Implant Clinic. Before undergoing a dental procedure, your dentist may ask you to stop taking blood thinners for a few days. Always consult with your doctor and your dentist before making any decisions.

People taking these medications should be very careful in every aspect of personal hygiene, including tooth brushing, flossing and shaving. It is recommended to use a soft-bristled toothbrush as well as a soft floss as it will help lessen any discomfort connected with dental care and decrease your chances of experiencing bleeding gums. Applying too much pressure while brushing and flossing your teeth can also cause the gums to bleed. Moreover, if you participate in any contact sport activities, make sure to wear a good mouthguard, because these medications will cause severe gum bleeding in case of a mouth injury.

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5 Foods That Stain Your Teeth

cola stains natural teethWho doesn’t want a bright, white smile? Having pearly white teeth not only makes you look young but also improves your confidence. Taking care of your teeth is the first step toward maintaining a good oral hygiene and bright white teeth. Therefore, it is very important to avoid the foods and beverages that stain your teeth, making them appear less flattering. Here is a list of foods and beverages that you should think twice before consuming:

1. Black Coffee

Coffee is undoubtedly the best a.m. savior, but having a cup of black coffee in the morning is enough for staining your teeth. As the outer layer of your teeth is very porous, foods as well as liquids get absorbed in your teeth. You can replace black coffee with milk, which helps make your teeth strong.

2. Cola

Dark sodas are very harmful for your teeth due to their staining colour. According to an experienced dental professional at a dental implant clinic UK, sodas can cause the teeth to contract, making them stain easily. The acids in soda cause the tooth enamel to erode and the sweeteners in these drinks promote tooth decay.

3. Beets

People who have ever touched beets know how they stain. Make sure to brush your teeth properly after an hour of eating beets as this will prevent stain formation.

4. Cranberry Juice

Certain fruit juices, like cranberry juice can also stain your teeth. The acids and concentrated dark colour of some fruit juices are known to stains teeth. Using straw when consuming fruit juices helps prevent tooth staining.

5. Tea

Tannins present in tea are responsible for staining your pearly whites. You can switch to green tea or some other herbal tea alternatives to prevent tooth staining.

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Preventing Tooth Erosion

learn about tooth erosionTooth erosion can result in mild oral problems, from sensitivity to tooth discoloration to more severe oral conditions, such as teeth indentions, cracked teeth and severe tooth sensitivity.

Tooth erosion can severely damage your teeth. However, this condition can be prevented. Here are some tips that can help you prevent tooth erosion:

  • Always rinse your mouth with water after drinking or eating acidic beverages or foods.
  • Brush your teeth after an hour of consuming acidic beverages or foods as this helps the teeth to remineralise after exposure to acid.
  • Avoid sweet drinks or carbonated drinks. You can replace them with milk, water or unsweetened tea or coffee.
  • When consuming sweet drink or carbonated beverages, use straw as it enables the drink to go directly to the back of the mouth.
  • Don’t hold acidic liquids in your mouth and try to swallow them quickly.
  • Chew sugar-free gum as this helps increase the flow of saliva and reduce dry mouth, allowing the teeth to remineralise.
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and don’t forget to change your toothbrush after every four months of using it.
  • Use toothpaste that has fluoride in it. Fluoride helps reduce tooth sensitivity and strengthens the teeth.

As tooth erosion can be caused by different factors, it is very important to consult with a professionally trained dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic if you notice any symptoms of tooth erosion.

 

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Oral Health And Your Overall Health

Your oral health is related to your general healthYour oral health is linked to your overall health and may even provide clues about any underlying medical conditions.

How Is My Oral Health Connected With My Overall Health?

Your mouth is full of bacteria but the majority of them are harmless. Normally the natural defenses of your body and proper dental care, such as daily flossing and brushing can help keep these bacteria at bay. However, if not controlled, the harmful bacteria can result in oral infections, such as gum disease and tooth decay. Moreover, medications, treatments or dental procedures that reduce the flow of saliva disturb the normal balance of these bacteria in the mouth, making it easier for harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream. This can cause serious medical conditions like heart disease and stroke.

The oral health of a person might affect, contribute to or be affected by a number of conditions including cardiovascular disease, endocarditis, diabetes, AIDS/HIV, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, low birth weight in babies, premature birth and other conditions. Make sure to discuss about your medications with an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic.

What Should I Do To Protect My Oral Health?

Maintaining a good oral hygiene should be your first step towards preventing yourself from dental conditions as well as other medical conditions associated with oral health. Marinating proper dental hygiene includes:

  • Brushing the teeth twice a day
  • Changing the toothbrush every 3-4 months
  • Flossing on a daily basis
  • Eating a healthy nutritious diet
  • Scheduling regular visits for dental checkups

If you notice any symptoms of oral health conditions, contact your dentist immediately. Take care of your oral health to prevent yourself from other serious medical conditions.

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Why Are My Teeth Yellow?

teeth can become discoloured by smoking, coffee or wineThey say that a smile is a curve that sets everything straight. But, what if the same becomes a source of embarrassment for you? Apart from being one of the most common dental issues faced by people, yellow teeth can make any person feel embarrassed or diffident. So, what are the factors that affect the color of your teeth?

5 Causes of Yellow Teeth You Might Not Know

Tobacco Smoke

While most people understand that smoking carries severe risks to health, a very few people know that it is even bad for the teeth. People usually have those yellowish stains on the teeth because they smoke tobacco products such as cigars and cigarettes. The teeth have that yellowish look because of the accumulation of stains from nicotine, tar and other chemicals that are present in the smoke.

Consuming the Wrong Foods

There are certain beverages and foods that can stain your teeth as they contain tannins and dyes. Some examples include soda pop, tea, coffee, popsicles and soy sauce. Having these foods in excessive amounts or skipping brushing after consuming these foods can even lead to permanent stains that can’t be reduced from regular brushing.

Medicines

Did you know that there are certain prescription antibiotics like tetracycline that can lead to permanent yellowish or grayish stains on your teeth? So, it is best to make sure that you discuss the side-effects (staining effects in particular) of the prescribed antibiotics with your doctor.

Is It In Your Genes?

Your genes are a major factor that affects the color of your teeth. People with their parents having naturally yellow teeth are more likely to have the same colored teeth.

What about Poor Hygiene?

Well, this is one of the most obvious reasons for having stained teeth. Plaque builds up on your teeth as a result of poor hygiene gives them the yellowish or mottled look.

There are different factors that affect the appearance of your teeth but these problems can be resolved by bringing certain changes to your lifestyle and seeking the help of a reliable and profession dentist. At Brighton Implant Clinic, our dentists focus on finding specific solutions that counter the particular kind of stain you’re facing.

 

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Infection of Salivary Glands

dryness of the mouth can be caused by infected salivary glandsThere is a set of salivary glands in and around the mouth, which perform very important functions. The main function is the production of saliva; which is extremely useful in terms of proper chewing, swallowing, and digestion of foods. The presence of saliva inside the mouth prevents dental damage or decay.

When the salivary glands are infected due to bacteria or viruses, the condition is known as sialadenitis.

 What about the signs?

The various signs and symptoms associated with salivary glandular infection are listed below:

Ø  Presence of high temperature.

Ø  Dryness of the mouth.

Ø  Pain during chewing and eating.

Ø  Swelling in the mouth, below the tongue or below the sides of the jaws.

Ø  Altered and unpleasant taste in the mouth.

When one or more of these signs are present, a doctor or a qualified dentist must be consulted.

 The treatment approach

In the event of an infection of the salivary glands, the doctor or dentist is the only person who can advise appropriate medication including antibiotics and other measures.

However, it is the responsibility of the patient to perform the following actions:

Ø  Brushing of the teeth twice daily. Brushing should be gentle and special attention should be paid to the gum line.

Ø  Flossing the teeth at least once daily.

Ø  To prevent dryness, the mouth should be rinsed with a warm solution of water and salt multiple times during the day.

Ø  Smoking should be avoided as it may cause delay in healing.

 

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Eating With a Lower Denture

lower denture is sometimes difficult to adapt to

It can be really challenging and time-consuming to adjust to your new dentures. However, with patience, proper management and dental consultation, the process can be way more comfortable.

 Have a mood for soft food

 Always stick to your dentist’s advice of starting with soft foods when using the lower dentures for eating. A good idea would be cutting your food into small pieces for ensuring comfortable chewing.

Chew it slowly

You’ll have to have a slow approach, when it comes to chewing your food.  An ideal approach would be using the two mouth sides for preventing the denture from slipping.

 Use your muscles

The muscles in your cheek and tongue can be used for ensuring that your dentures are in place while you’re chewing. Lower dentures tend to slip as your mouth makes movement. You can deal with this problem by retraining your muscles.

Things to make it easier

Try placing your tongue on the denture’s inner surface while eating. If the tongue is moving around a lot, your denture will certainly be moving. Another idea is to use the centre of the mouth for biting as this keeps your dentures from slipping over the ridge of the gums.

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Cost of Dental Implants

Cost of Dental ImplantsMany people think of expensive dental treatments as pain in their wallets. Dental implants aren’t cheap but they’re definitely a great alternative to bridges or dentures as they have a higher success rate. Moreover, dental implants appear like your own teeth and last for many years. The dental implant procedure involves the following steps:

  • Dental consultation
  • Dental implant
  • Bone grafting
  • Gum grafting
  • Restoration, bridge, crown (the replacement teeth)

The implant consultation also involves moulds, X-rays, as well as a written report.

The cost of dental implants varies depending on difference in the fees charged by dentists and the kind of dental implant used. The cost of implants includes the cost of dental fixture, the dental implantation, bone grafting as well as gum grafting. Other dental implant costs include the fees of dental consultation and the CT scans or X-ray costs if needed. Moreover, the cost of implants may include any other additional treatment required to successfully perform the dental treatment.

Make sure to consult a specially trained dental professional at Brighton Implant Clinic to discuss about the dental implant procedure as well as the cost involved.

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6 Rules for a Painless Denture-Wearing Process

6 Rules for a Painless Denture-Wearing Process

Rule # 1

Always consult your dentist for having the new dentures adjusted after a couple of weeks of wearing them. Did you know that your bones and gums continue shrinking as they’re healing after tooth extraction?

Rule # 2

You should also talk to your dentist regarding the matter of relining the dentures. Remember that new dentures may need certain adjustments in the form of relining after your gums have healed.

Rule # 3

It is better to have your dentist take a look at the older dentures. In most cases, clicking and slipping of the dentures and signs like gum irritation mean that something is wrong. Dentures that don’t fit well often lead to painful oral conditions and infections. And your dentist is the only person to consult to if an adjustment or relining is needed.

Rule # 4

Always talk to your dentist about any problems with your dentures- especially the reddening of gums under the dentures. This usually points toward a problem like stomatitis.

Rule # 5

You may consider applying a topical oral pain-reliever on the gums for alleviating pain. Don’t forget to get approval from your dentist before using any pain-relieving ointment.

Rule # 6

Lastly, the most important part of the whole process is proper management of dentures for making sure that their shape is retained. Keep your dentures from drying out by placing them in a container of water, when not in use.

 

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Can I Enjoy Snorkeling With Dentures?

Can I Enjoy Snorkeling With Dentures?No doubt, snorkeling is a great way of enjoying your vacation- especially when you love doing things that are both exciting and fun. But, what if you’re wearing dentures? Will the experience remain as enjoyable as it used to be without dentures?

So, what’s the fear?

For most people wearing dentures, snorkeling doesn’t feel like something they would enjoy because they fear losing or damaging their dentures while snorkeling. Some people think that the dentures will worsen the whole experience by making them feel uncomfortable. At the end of the day, snorkeling has a lot to do with the mouth. So, the thought of having the denture pulled out while removing the snorkel mouthpiece sounds like a common fear. Besides, people fear losing their dentures that could fall into the ocean during the fun. So, does that mean you can never enjoy snorkeling with dentures?

The Truth

There are many people, in fact seniors, who have a great deal of fun while snorkeling with their dentures. Remember, the snorkel isn’t sealed with your teeth; it’s rather sealed to your lips and gums. So, the truth is that your dentures should in no way, be an excuse to keep you from the joy of snorkeling. However you’ll always have to be a bit more careful while you’re making the most of this fun activity.

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Stomatitis-All You Should Know

stomatitisStomatitis is a condition characterized by sore or inflamed mouth that can disrupt the ability of a person to talk, eat or sleep. This condition can occur in any part of the mouth, including the gums, lips, tongue, palate and inside of the cheeks.

Kinds of Stomatitis

Types of stomatitis include:

Aphthous ulcer or canker sores:

Aphthous ulcer is a single yellow or pale ulcer with a red border or a cluster of mouth ulcers, normally on the tongue, inside the tip or cheeks.

Fever blisters and cold sores:

Cold sores are blisters usually found on the lips filled with fluid. A person with cold sores experience burning, tenderness or tingling before the blisters actually appear around or on the lips.

Mouth irritation:

Mouth irritation can be a result of:

  • Biting your lip, cheek or tongue
  • Chewing tobacco
  • Wearing any type of dentures or braces
  • Having a broken, sharp tooth
  • Burning your mouth from hot drinks or foods
  • Being afflicted with autoimmune diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, Behcet’s disease or lupus
  • Having hypersensitivity to some foods or medicines
  • Having gingivitis or some other mouth infection
  • Taking drugs like chemotherapeutic agents, medications, antibiotics for rheumatoid arthritis, or medications for epilepsy
  • Exposure to radiation as a treatment of cancer

Causes of Stomatitis

The causes of stomatitis include canker sores and cold sores.

Symptoms of Stomatitis

Symptoms of stomatitis include:

  • Painful Canker sores that last for 5 to 10 days
  • Painful cold sores that usually go away within 7 to 10 days
  • Cold sores connected with flu or cold symptoms

Make sure to schedule an appointment with a professional dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic if you experience mouth sores that don’t heal within two weeks.

 

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Safety tips for Snorkeling with Dentures

Safety tips for Snorkeling with DenturesDo you fear snorkeling because you’ve started wearing dentures? Well, it’s important to understand that your dentures should in no way be an excuse to keep you from the joy of snorkeling. However, you’ll always have to be a bit more careful while you’re making the most of this fun activity. This can done by making sure that you take the right preventative measures to keep yourself from trouble.

The first thing that you should do before engaging in this fun activity is to purchase a mouthpiece that goes well with your dentures. Now, this requires ensuring complete compatibility of dentures with the mouthpiece in order to get a painless bite. If you don’t have a custom mouthpiece, gripping the snorkel can be painful or impossible. You may also consider using quality and durable adhesive with the dentures you wear. This will allow the dentures to easily adhere to the gums while reducing your chance of losing the dentures in the ocean or water.

Once you’re done with the fun, try to carefully work on removing the snorkel. Some people do this by yanking the mouthpiece out. A better approach would be tilting the head upward, open the mouth wide while slowly removing the mouthpiece.

At the end of the day, your main goal is to avoid losing your dentures and making the snorkeling experience as pleasant and comfortable as possible.

 

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Issues You May Face With Dental Crowns

  dental crowns

Is it sensitivity that’s bothering you?

People with dental crowns may experience sensitivity or some sort of discomfort in the beginning- especially when anesthesia starts wearing off after the procedure. In some cases, the crowned tooth is left with a nerve, which later becomes a cause of tooth sensitivity. So, make sure that you talk with your dentist about this issue. This will not only help you get proper advice for problems like sensitive teeth but it will also help your dentist fix any problems that may arise with the newly crowned teeth.

Do you have a chipped crown?

Yes, some people have a chipped crown. There are certain crowns that are made of porcelain and these can chip quite easily. But referring to an experienced dentist can save you from the trouble of replacing the crown. While it’s not always possible to avoid replacing a chipped dental crown, an experienced dentist can repair the chip using composite resin if the damage isn’t major or easily noticeable.

What if your crown gets loose?

At times, the crown cement may wash out, which loosens the crown while allowing bacteria to get in and cause tooth decay. And if you’re facing the same problem, don’t forget to consult your dentist right away.

OMG! Your crown just fell!

Yes, this happens with a lot of people. The problem actually lies in the way your dentist fits the crown or uses dental cement. If you ever experience this problem, you should consider cleaning the crown along with the tooth front immediately. The crown can be temporarily replaced with the help of dental adhesive or tooth cement but in order to find a permanent solution, you’ll have to consult an experienced dentist.

 

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Tooth Pain When Walking

Tooth Pain When WalkingPain in the tooth can be throbbing or just mild sensitivity. Tooth pain while walking can be a result of the following:

Tooth Decay

The bacteria present in your saliva break down starches and sugar to produce an acid. This acid can lead to a cavity in your tooth’s enamel. If left untreated, this cavity can result in tooth decay, which is very painful. According to a highly experienced dental professional, you should make an appointment with your dentist if you experience pain in your tooth.

Abscessed Tooth

Tooth decay, cracks, trauma to the tooth or repeated dental procedures can result in an abscessed tooth. If you have an abscessed tooth, you will have to undergo a root canal treatment. An abscess forms due to severe inflammation of the pulp, resulting in an infection. Pulp infection leads to infection of the ligament, soft tissues and bone that surround the tooth. Physical activity such as walking aggravates this infection, causing severe pain in the tooth.

Pericoronitis

Pericoronitis is characterized as an oral condition wherein the gum tissue present around your molar teeth becomes infected. and swollen. Pericoronitis leads to an aching erupting tooth. Walking or some other physical activity can cause severe tooth pain.

Sinusitis

Toothache can be a result of an infected or inflamed sinus. Tooth pain due to sinus infection is temporary and usually goes away as the sinus infection gets better. Bending over or walking can result in severe sinus pain, which is often confused with tooth pain.

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Athletic mouth guards and oral protection

Athletic mouth guards and oral protection

Athletic mouth guards are actually plastic appliances that are typically worn while a person engages in recreational as well as athletic activities for protecting the teeth from traumatic events or loss while reducing the chances of developing jaw fractures.

Mouth guards further play an important role in minimizing the risk of lacerated and injured lips by keeping the regions of soft tissue away from the teeth. This is particularly useful for youngsters who have orthodontic braces.

It’s a fact that our mouth is more prone to injuries and bruises during sports and active engagements. In terms of oral protection, people involved in athletic activities like boxing, baseball, basketball, field hockey, ice hockey, football, martial arts, wrestling, rugby etc are encouraged to wear these flexible plastic guards. These are also used by people who participate in recreational activities like bicycling and skateboarding.

While a person engages in sports activities, he/she should make sure that the mouth guard stays in place and doesn’t interfere with breathing or the ability to talk. In addition to providing optimum protection, a mouth guard should have a reasonable comfort level. Just like any other type of sports gear, these guards can lose their efficiency over time. Therefore, they should ideally be replaced following each sports season. But, proper care can actually increase their life span.

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Benefits of Flossing

Benefits of FlossingDental floss is a thread or ribbon like object which is made up of various substances such as nylon, polyethylene, Teflon, etc. The basic purpose of a dental floss is proper cleaning of spaces between your teeth, by removing collected food particles. There are different kinds of dental floss including waxed or un-waxed; string or tape; flavoured or unflavoured; and Teflon coated.

It is a well-known fact that brushing your teeth without flossing cleans just about 75 per cent of teeth surfaces; therefore flossing is an integral part of dental cleaning and should be performed regularly at least once daily. The floss should be gently inserted between the inter-dental spaces by using fingers and thumbs of both hands and teeth surfaces should be gently scraped.

Here are some of the benefits of flossing your teeth on a daily basis:

  • Removal of small food particles trapped between the teeth.
  • Clean and healthy teeth and gums.
  • Prevention of bad breath.
  • Prevention of plaque formation by removing food particles.
  • Prevention of tartar or calculus formation which is caused by long standing plaques.
  • If plaque or tartar is present, the bacteria inside them will produce acids and cause damage to gums, leading to gingivitis. Regular flossing prevents this gum disease.
  • When the gums are damaged, cavities may form and subsequently cause bone resorption or tooth loss. However, regular flossing can prevent these oral health conditions.
  • According to experienced dentists, there is a close relationship between heart attack and gum disease. Flossing your teeth decreases the risk of developing heart attack.

 

 

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4 Types of Full Dentures

4 Types of Full Dentures

4 Types of Full Dentures

What are immediate dentures?

Full dentures that are placed in the mouth right after teeth extractions are referred to as immediate dentures. The process involves taking impressions of the natural teeth to determine a proper fit of the replacement teeth. This option is quite popular-especially among people who can’t wait long to have their teeth replaced.

What about conventional dentures?

These are yet another option of dentures that are known for correct fitting for the first time. In most cases, the results are highly satisfactory because mouth impressions are taken after tooth extraction, which ensures a more accurate measurement.

Ever heard of Overdenture?

At times, some of the natural teeth are left intact or some artificial teeth are placed in the jaw for supporting the removable denture. Such a kind of full denture is categorized as overdenture. It is the job of your dentist to determine if you need an overdenture or not.

Go for the fancy ones: Cosmetic Dentures

People who are concerned with the appearance of conventional dentures and who are seeking a more natural-looking option usually consider getting cosmetic dentures that are typically made with ceramic porcelain. However, these are more expensive compared to the conventional option.

 

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Why You Need Dental Implants

Why you need dental implants

Why You Need Dental ImplantsDental implants are a long-lasting tooth replacement designed to match your natural tooth. Dental implants are permanent and do not shift or move.

Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants look and function like natural teeth. There are many benefits of getting dental implants, including:

  • Durability:

Dental implants are durable and usually last many years. If proper care is taken, many dental implants last as long as a lifetime.

  • Improved speech:

If the dentures don’t fit properly, your teeth can slip within your mouth as a result of which you slur or mumble your words. Implants give you the confidence to speak without worrying that the teeth might slip.

  • Improved comfort:

Dental implants are comfortable and are more convenient than dentures.

  • Improved appearance:

Implants appear natural and and perform like your natural teeth. Dental implants become permanent as they are made to fuse with the bone.

  • Easier eating:

Dentures can cause difficulty in chewing. Dental implants perform like your natural teeth, making it easier and comfortable to eat your favorite foods.

  • Improved self-esteem:

Implants boost your self-esteem and help you smile with confidence.

  • Convenience:

Dental implants are convenient compared to dentures as you don’t need to remove the implants. You don’t even require adhesives in order to keep the implants in place as the dental implants long lasting.

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Tips For Healthy Teeth

Tips for healthy teeth

Tips For Healthy TeethTaking care of your teeth is extremely important for maintaining good oral hygiene and a bright, white smile. Here are some tips that will not only help you keep your mouth healthy but will also maintain your overall health:

1. Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated and your teeth healthy. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water is recommended unless you experience any medical constraints.
2. Don’t eat frozen foods or drink cold beverages right after consuming hot food.
3. Avoid drinking very cold water as it can make your teeth sensitive.
4. Don’t swallow food without chewing it properly first. According to experienced dentists, you must chew your food until it becomes a paste.
5. Avoid gulping fluids. Rinse every sip in your mouth and slowly sip in.
6. Try to wash the mouth after each meal to keep your teeth clean and free from stains.
7. Limit your consumption of rubbery or soft foods like pizza, chocolates, etc.
8. Try to use your tongue as a broom to clean your gums and teeth every now and then.
9. Practice a good oral hygiene routine, which includes brushing and flossing the teeth.
10. Make sure to rinse your mouth when you wake up in the morning.

Follow these effective oral health care tips to keep your pearly whites strong and shiny.

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False Teeth: What Are Some Types?

What are the different types of false teeth available today?

False Teeth: What Are Some Types?

 Dental Implants

This option is becoming increasingly popular as more and more people look forward to getting a permanent solution for their missing teeth or loose-fitting dentures. The process involves attaching a metal screw into the jaw bone, which can be used by the dentist for anchoring the new teeth in place. Dental implants are preferred by most patients because they don’t tend to slip or move, which gives the patients a long lasting, more comfortable and convenient experience.

Partial Denture

Partial dentures are usually made of a combination of teeth that are held together by an acrylic band or metal. The dentures work by fastening to the natural teeth with the help of metal clasps. As the band adheres to the teeth’s back, it isn’t typically visible from the front. 

Full Dentures

The option of full dentures offers a complete removable set of teeth. The teeth made from acrylic or resin work by fastening to a soft plate fitting against the mouth’s roof. Suction tends to hold these dentures in place, but there are people who prefer using dental adhesives for reducing slipping.

Fixed Bridge

Patients may also opt for a fixed bridge that is composed of a single false tooth, which has a cap or crown attached to any one of its sides. The crowns work by fitting over the natural teeth’s top.

 

 


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Ever Heard of Denture Cushions?

Ever Heard of Denture Cushions?

Ever Heard of Denture Cushions?

If you wear dentures, then you’ve most probably heard of denture cushions. Denture cushions are aimed at holding loose dentures in position through the formation of a vacuum grip between the gums and the dentures you’re wearing. Denture cushions are ideally used when old dentures are being worn or the dentures have lost their snug fit, which is mostly because of receding gums. The use of denture cushions play an important role in creating a safe bond, which offers an enhanced confidence of chewing foods. These cushions are also popular because they don’t tend to dissolve in liquid, which makes them the best option for denture wearers with the problem of excessive salivating.

How to Find One?

If you’re thinking to invest in a denture cushion, make sure that the one you choose fits snugly over the dentures. If you aren’t feeling the cushions in your mouth, it means that the cushions have been properly contoured to the dentures.

When considering the brands, look for the ones that let you shape the cushions around the dentures, which involves pressing all around the edges for creating a seal. Once this is done, the excess can be trimmed around the rim of the dentures. Try finding cushions that have soft liners for preventing inflammation or irritation of the tissue around your gum area. You can find denture cushions for both upper and lower dentures.

 

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Xylitol and Your Oral Health

Xylitol and Your Oral Health

Xylitol and Your Oral HealthXylitol is basically a sugar alcohol, coming from birch bark and serving as an alternative sweetener. It can play an important role in the prevention of cavities and is often used by diabetics for sweetening foods.

It’s highly useful in promoting oral health as well as preventing plaque and bacterial build-up on the teeth. Studies have shown that foods and oral health products with adequate amounts of xylitol in them can be highly effective in reducing the rate of cavity development in children and adults alike. It can also he highly effective in the prevention of the onset or development of gingivitis.

So, what are some sources?

Xylitol can be found in the fibers that are present in vegetables as well as fruits, which includes, raspberries, mushrooms, yellow plums, cauliflower as well as lettuce. As far as vegetables and fruits are concerned, xylitol makes up only less than a single percent. Xylitol is also added to many gums and toothpastes because of its known benefits for oral health.


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Are You Familiar With The Term “Pontic”?

What Does Pontic Mean?

Are You Familiar With The Term “Pontic”

In the world of dentistry, pontic refers to the option of replacing missing teeth by providing a solution that prevents further damage or dental problems. While there are a number of options available for patients, dentures and fixed bridges are two treatment options that are most commonly used.

So, what are dentures?

Dentures are an extremely common type among the other pontic options that are available out there. This works great for replacing injured teeth or teeth affected by a dental disease.

After the removal of teeth and complete healing of gums, the patient’s jaw is measured and a model is created for the denture pontic.

The option of a fixed bridge

While dentures come as removable pontics, fixed bridges can’t be removed from the mouth. These pontics are referred to as bridges in the dental world because they work by bridging the space present between teeth that typically results from missing some teeth. Since metal bands are used for attaching the replacement teeth, bridges remain fixed with the metal bands being cemented to the supporting teeth nearby. Some bridges are specifically meant for replacing the front teeth, while other bridges are used if the only option is attaching the replacement teeth to anchor teeth on either of the missing teeth’s sides.

 

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Is your crown made of gold?

Is your crown made of gold?

Is your crown made of goldThere are different types of materials that are used for making dental crowns. There isn’t any specifically ideal material for preparing these crowns, the choice depends on a couple of factors like the tooth’s location or the aesthetics needed.

The one made with gold alloy

Dental crowns can be made of gold alloy. These crowns typically have the longest life among other options and resist extremely well to chewing forces. Experts suggest that crowns made with gold alloy hardly break, causing slight wear to opposing teeth.

However, the metallic color of gold is considered a disadvantage to these types of crowns. People prefer using gold for molars because they don’t appear when smiling. These crowns are prepared in a laboratory, using the impression of the patient’s teeth.

Is it porcelain fused to gold?

A crown prepared from porcelain fused to gold tends to be a more aesthetic choice, compared to the option of gold alloy crown. Porcelain tends to make a crown look extremely similar to the natural teeth. The gold part, that is present beneath the porcelain, plays a role in strengthening the tooth. Porcelain is extremely strong, but is weaker than gold and has chances of being fractured. At times, the gold beneath the porcelain may show, particularly at the gum level.

 

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All Ceramic Crowns Vs CEREC

Ceramic Crown Vs CEREC

All Ceramic Crowns Vs CEREC

The most real-looking and aesthetic crowns are made up of porcelain only, and are typically known as all ceramic crowns. They are ideally closer to natural teeth in terms of appearance, shape and color. All ceramic crowns are less strong than crowns made of gold or gold and porcelain mix crowns. Some newer varieties of porcelain crowns are being introduced which are better in strength and resistance. porcelain only crowns have a better and more natural look making them an ideal choice for front teeth replacement. Porcelain crowns are usually made in a dental laboratory.

CEREC (Ceramic Reconstruction) is a new type of porcelain crown technology. It is computer based technology which employs 3D photography and other computer program for assisting the dentist who designs the dental restoration crown himself. The advantages of CEREC technology include time-saving for the dentist as well as the patient since a single visit is required and the procedure can be completed in a few minutes.

Despite the popularity of the CEREC porcelain system, the importance of a dental laboratory porcelain crown has not diminished as they are more natural looking and pleasing to the eye. Before a permanent dental laboratory crown is prepared, the dentist uses a temporary crown for temporary or provisional restoration. The temporary crown is made of acrylic or stainless steel and lasts for a few weeks until the permanent replacement is available. Temporary crown, made by the dentist himself, is less strong and can break easily.

 

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4 Things You Aren’t Doing For Your Periodontal Health

4 Things You Aren’t Doing For Your Periodontal Health

4 Things You Aren't Doing For Your Periodontal Health

The Do’s and Don’ts of Diet

Eating a balanced diet isn’t just a matter of losing weight. The concept of maintaining proper nutrition in the body has in fact a lot to do with promoting healthy teeth and gums. Foods that are rich in omega-3, vitamin D and calcium play an important role in reducing the incidence of periodontal diseases.

Exercise and exercise

Did you know that regular exercise can contribute toward reducing your chances of developing periodontal disease? Research has shown that high physical fitness levels are directly associated with lower incidence of serious periodontal conditions.

Are you stressed?

Yes, staying stress free isn’t only necessary for a good night’s sleep but it is also essential for keeping you from developing periodontitis. If the body has elevated levels of cortisol hormone, the chances of destroying the gums and bone increase as a result of periodontal diseases. Besides, stressed people tend to ignore the importance of maintaining good oral health.

Habit or what?

So you’ve a habit of smoking. Did you know that smoking isn’t merely a problem that leads to cardiovascular diseases but it also increases your chances of developing periodontal diseases?

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Are Your False Teeth Causing Gum Pain?

Gum pain caused by false teeth

Are Your False Teeth Causing Gum Pain?

False teeth usually come as dentures that are worn in the mouth to replace missing teeth.

Many people who wear false teeth start experiencing gum pain after some time of wearing them. This could be possible because of a new denture bearing down extremely hard on the bony region if the fit isn’t accurate. As a result, the gums not only hurt but also have sores until the problem is fixed by an experienced dental expert. Dentists often fix the problem by trimming the denture area which is causing the pressure.

In some cases, the pain persists for months and even years following the procedure. This happens when the fit starts changing over time, and dentures gradually begin rubbing against the gum tissue. As a result, there is inflammation and pain. Some dentists typically recommend over-the-counter adhesives as well as creams for temporary relief. However, the patient may need a proper dental treatment by a dental expert to get a permanent solution, such as dental implants.

It is important to understand that gums require certain amount of time for recovery from problems caused by false teeth. The sores take time to heal while the inflammation should ideally have gone down before the dentures are worn on a regular basis. You may consider taking out the dentures periodically for allowing oxygen to get to the gum tissue, which is essential for promoting healing.

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Baby Bottle Tooth Decay Prevention

Prevent Baby Tooth Decay

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay PreventionNursing bottle mouth or baby bottle tooth decay occur when your child’s teeth are frequently exposed to sweet liquids for longer periods of time, typically breast milk, juice or formula at naptime or bedtime. But with proper oral hygiene, you can prevent your kid from developing baby bottle tooth decay.

Here are some things you should be doing for your child’s teeth

  • Don’t make use of a nursing bottle as a pacifier.
  • Never give your child a pacifier which has been dipped in sugar or honey.
  • Don’t make your baby sleep with a bottle. However, if you do, it is important to ensure that it contains water rather than milk, formula or juice.

After feeding your baby, try to brush your child’s gums gently by using water or a gum and tooth cleanser for babies. Make sure to use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush. You can also wipe your the gums of your baby with a gauze pad or damp, soft washcloth. It is an unknown fact that you have to start working towards preventing baby bottle tooth decay even before your baby’s first tooth appears. Start providing proper dental hygiene to your baby right from birth.

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Oral Care and Arthritis Pain

Oral Care and Arthritis Pain

Oral Care Arthritis Pain

Research and studies have shown that the pain associated with arthritis can be alleviated to a great extent if the active gum disease is treated on time. This is particularly helpful in dealing with problems like inflammation in the joints and morning stiffness.

During a study that was conducted last year, about forty patients having mild to severe periodontitis with rheumatoid arthritis were brought under observation. There were four groups in total. One of the groups was given drugs that were effective in blocking production of a particular toxin present at the sites of inflamed rheumatoid arthritis. The other group was given medications along with nonsurgical periodontal treatment for cleaning and removing infection from bones as well as gum tissues. The third group only had nonsurgical treatment while the fourth group had no treatment at all.

By the end of the study, patients who got nonsurgical periodontital treatment showed improvements in their arthritis symptoms.

Experts also believe that dental care can be really difficulty for patients with special health needs, which includes arthritis sufferers. Dental experts recommend making use of a wide elastic band for attaching a toothbrush to the patient’s hand or enlarging the handle of the toothbrush by attaching a sponge etc. Other tricks include increasing the handle in length with a ruler or tongue depressor along with using a commercial floss holder or electric toothbrushes.

 

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Why Are Pregnant Women More Prone To Cavities?

Cavities and Pregnancy

Why Are Pregnant Women More Prone To Cavities?

The connection with the saliva

As compared to women, the production of saliva in women is slow. Saliva plays an important role in cleaning the teeth and disinfecting the mouth, each time you eat something. If the production of saliva is slowed down, this regular practice of removing food residue from the mouth is negatively affected . As a result, the affected person develops xerostomiaor or dry mouth.

At the time of pregnancy, there is a change in the chemical composition of saliva, as a result of which, the antimicrobial capacity is decreased. So, there is a rise in the probability of developing tooth decay.

The irresistible temptations

A majority of women have this problem of an increase in food temptations every now and then- especially during pregnancy and stages of hormonal changes. These cravings are typically meant for sweet, high-energy, spicy or fatty foods. This particularly occurs when women are in the third trimester of pregnancy.

Most women crave for high-energy drinks that react with sugar in the mouth and cause cavities.

 

 

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Understanding Implants and Overlays

Implants and Overlays

Understanding Implants and OverlaysDespite following a strict routine of regular brushing and flossing, the teeth may break, crack, decay, or need repair. In case of a minor problem, the problem can be fixed by dental overlay; but a major flaw or a missing tooth needs a dental implant.

How are the Procedures Different?

Dental implants and dental overlays are two entirely different procedures of dental restoration. Dental implant is the surgical replacement of a missing tooth while dental overlays, also known as dental inlays or onlays, are used to repair a broken or decayed part of tooth by placing a reparative substance.

These methods of dental repair are meant to provide the patients with a natural look and a functioning set of teeth. Dental implants repair by employing a real tooth or real-like fake tooth. Porcelain is the a popular material used in various types of dental overlays; with an effort being made to match the colour and appearance of the missing tooth part. Porcelain overlays are more robust, long lasting, and natural looking than metallic overlays. Sometimes gold overlays are also used.

Dental implants provide a durable and permanent solution as they fuse to the jawbone in due course of time providing a stable tooth replacement. On the other hand, dental overlays are not permanent and usually need replacement.

 

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Fear Of Dentists-Sleep Dentistry Is Your Solution

Fear of Dentists

 

Fear of visiting the dentist can be damaging for your teeth. People who experience dental problems early in their life often develop a fear of seeing the dentist. For people who avoid visiting the dentist because of the discomfort and pain connected with their past experiences, sleep dentistry is the only solution. How will you feel if you wake up with a bright, white smile that you have always dreamed of. Well, this is definitely possible with the help of sleep dentistry.

Sedation dentistry or sleep dentistry uses anesthetics that are administered with the help of an IV drip. Sleep dentistry requires proper dental equipment as well as specially trained dental professional at Brighton Implant Clinic.  This procedure often requires several hours to be completed.

People who fear visiting the dentist or individuals with Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimers and Down’s syndrome, sedation dentistry offers excellent results. Sedation dentistry can be a good choice for:

  1. Disabled people
  2. Adults and children who fear visiting the dentist
  3. People with gag reflexes
  4. Long dental procedures such as cosmetic dentistry and root canals

Sedation Dentistry has been successful in alleviating the levels of patient discomfort, making the dental procedure pleasant for the patient.

 

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What Do You Know About Baby Teeth?

Facts About Baby Teeth

What Do You Know About Baby Teeth?

 Time of tooth eruption

The most common timing of first tooth eruption is at about 6 months. The timing of tooth eruption varies greatly, teeth may be present at birth or the first tooth may appear at 1 year of age. Usually the lower front teeth (incisors) erupt first and by the age of 2-3 years, along with the child developing the full set of 20 primary teeth.

Teething and disease

It is a common belief that eruption of teeth is associated with disease and symptoms like fever, cough, diarrhea, etc. There is no truth in this notion as eruption of teeth is a normal physiological process.

Some researchers have demonstrated that the cause of this disease during eruption of teeth may usually be the type 1 Herpes simplex virus.

Duration of baby teeth

A child loses his baby teeth by the age of 11-12 years but it isn’t some hard and fast rule and great variation exists. In some cases, the primary teeth remain after the age of 12 years and may hinder the eruption of permanent teeth. This may lead to disfigured and irregular tooth appearance.

These problems can be diagnosed by regular dental visits and X-rays. Pediatric dentists can advise appropriate corrective procedures.

Variation in eruption timing

As there is a lot of variation in the timing of primary as well as permanent teeth eruptions, it may cause unnecessary concern for the parents. This concern may be dealt with proper explanation and dental advice.

 

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How To Take Care Of Your Dentures?

How To Take  Care Of Your Dentures?Taking proper care of your dentures is essential for making them fit better and last longer. Here are the following things that you can do to take care of your dentures:

Clean Your Dentures Every Day:

Brush your dentures every day just like you brush your teeth. But don’t use toothpaste while brushing your dentures. According to an experienced dental professional at Brighton Implant Clinic, many types of toothpastes can be damaging to your dentures. You should use a toothbrush with soft bristles, made especially for cleaning dentures. After every meal, use water to rinse your dentures. Moreover, you can purchase denture cleaners to soak your dentures, but soaking isn’t an alternative to brushing—you must brush your dentures to get rid of plaque.

Handle Your Dentures Properly

Place a towel in the sink or fill it with water when cleaning your dentures as this will reduce the risk of breaking the dentures. When you are not wearing the dentures, place them in a cleaning solution or soak the dentures in cool water to protect your dentures from drying out. Always seek advice from your dentist before using a denture cleaning solution.

Remove The Dentures At Night

Removing your dentures at night lets the gum tissue to rest.

Proper care of your dentures can help you use them for 5 to 7 years. It is very important to schedule regular dental checkups every six months to look for any signs of gum disease.

 

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Bulimia and Your Oral Health

Bulimia and Your Oral Health

What is Bulimia?

Bulimia is a condition that causes the sufferer to uncontrollably binge on food. The sufferer typically uses at vomiting or the abuse of laxatives as a way of avoiding weight gain.  In some cases, the sufferer even develops anorexia nervosa. Bulimia is more common among females as compared to males.

Dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic conduct thorough examinations to detect any oral changes in patients suffering from bulimia. These changes normally include:

  • Swelling or inflammation in the salivary glands
  • Dryness or soreness in the tongue
  • Sore throat
  • Presence of small bruises on the mouth’s roof
  • Affected  tooth enamel

Effects of Bulimia on Oral Health

As a result of frequent vomiting triggered by bulimia, the tooth enamel is more likely to erode overtime. This usually happens on the inside of the sufferer’s upper front teeth. As the enamel starts wearing away, the chances of decay increase. The tooth can also become sensitive to heat or cold. And when this erosion gets severe, it affects the way upper and lower teeth come together. This may even lead to the shrinking of the back teeth.

In many cases, tooth erosion takes around two to three years to become obvious but it isn’t found among all bulimia patients. Some bulimics may suffer from malnutrition, which increases the likelihood of experiencing periodontal or gum disease.

Tips to Help

In order to reduce the damage brought by stomach acid when the sufferer vomits, it is better to rinse the mouth with water or a mouthwash that contains fluoride. Brushing the teeth after vomiting can worsen the weakened enamel. But if brushing becomes necessary, it is advisable to use toothpaste that has fluoride in highly concentrated form.

It is also essential to drink water- especially when you have dry mouth. Talk to your dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic about any oral conditions that you may have as they know best about treating your dental problems.

 

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Effects of Smoking on Your Teeth

Effects of Smoking on Your TeethSmoking is not good for your health but many people are unaware of the fact that smoking can also lead to various oral health conditions, including teeth staining. Stained teeth are common among people who smoke. You might see an improvement with whitening toothpastes as well as other whitening products, but your teeth will continue to stain if you smoke.

Smoking reduces saliva flow, which cleanses your teeth and the mouth’s lining. Moreover, saliva protects your teeth from decay. Smoking adversely affects your teeth in the following ways:

  • Use of tobacco significantly increases your chances of developing oral cancer. Oral cancer progresses fast and requires early diagnosis for successful treatment.
  • Smoking reduces the healing powers of your body after surgery.
  • Smoking can result in periodontal disease and causes tooth loss.
  • Smoking adversely affects the gum tissue, causing receding gums, which can lead to tooth decay and tooth sensitivity.
  • Moreover, smoking causes more tartar formation, which can only be removed by experienced dentists.
  • Cigarettes and cigars contain carcinogens that can lead to oral cancer.Quit smoking if you want to prevent yourself from a number of oral health conditions. It is also very important to follow a good oral hygiene routine, which includes brushing and flossing the teeth daily.

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Pulpitis and toothache

Braces for kids

Braces Option for KidsMost parents and dentists agree that getting braces at a younger age is better than having the procedure done later in life. The treatment option is usually considered in the case of crooked teeth or dental problems like overbite or underbite. Nowadays, there’s a whole variety of braces that parents can let their kids choose for themselves:

How about the metallic option?

Metal braces aren’t only popular because of the affordability factor but they’re also effective and durable in terms of fixing dental problems. Most braces now come in smaller brackets in a wide variety of colors other than the traditional “silver”. Orthodontists have started using metal braces with thinner wires, some braces even have more attractive options like stars and hearts for kids.

Ever heard of lingual braces?

Lingual braces are yet another type that can be considered. These are typically made from metal and tend to go behind the teeth rather than in front, which makes them undetectable. They are more expensive and require qualified specialists to carry out the procedure.

What are white braces?

White braces are another option for anyone looking for porcelain braces that are tooth-coloured. Despite being less noticeable as compared to metal braces, many people don’t consider using them as they are more expensive and may have a need to be left on the teeth for a longer period.

Clear braces

Translucent or white braces have monocrystalline sapphire as a building component and appear almost undetectable. These braces don’t stain and are comparatively stronger. However, they are more expensive than metal braces or other options.

Pulpitis and toothacheIf the dental pulp is inflamed, the sufferer experiences moderate to severe toothache. Tooth pulp is actually a soft tissue structure that is composed of blood vessels, connective tissues and nerves, creating the hard structure of the tooth when developing. The pulp doesn’t have any function in a fully developed tooth, however it may be a cause of pain.

Basically, pulpitis is categorized into reversible pulpitis and irreversible pulpitis. Reversible pulpitis results from a mild inflammatory response that may resolve before leading to an infection. Whereas, irreversible pulpitis has more severe consequences and ultimately leads to pulp necrosis as well as a tooth abscess.

The bacteria present in tooth decay is the main cause of inflammation of the tooth pulp. In case, an individual has a cavity, it may lead to reversible pulpitis while making the teeth sensitive to sweet, hot and cold. If the root surface is exposed because of gum recession, the person may also experience pulpitis. Extensive decay approaching or reaching the dental pulp contributes to irreversible inflammation. Tooth cracks and trauma may also be a cause of this condition.

Reversible pulpitis is characterized by an increasingly diminishing sensitivity to cold, heat or sugary foods. An extended sensitivity to the similar stimuli represents the development of irreversible pulpitis. Spontaneous pain as well as pain on biting is often experienced by people facing this condition. A toothache that can be relieved if ice water is kept on it indicates the presence of irreversible pulpitis.

Dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic usually devise a treatment for the removal of decay while placing a tooth filling for reversible pulpitis. Mostly, dentists recommend canal therapy to treat a tooth having irreversible pulpitis.

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Braces Option for Kids

Braces for kids

Braces Option for KidsMost parents and dentists agree that getting braces at a younger age is better than having the procedure done later in life. The treatment option is usually considered in the case of crooked teeth or dental problems like overbite or underbite. Nowadays, there’s a whole variety of braces that parents can let their kids choose for themselves:

How about the metallic option?

Metal braces aren’t only popular because of the affordability factor but they’re also effective and durable in terms of fixing dental problems. Most braces now come in smaller brackets in a wide variety of colors other than the traditional “silver”. Orthodontists have started using metal braces with thinner wires, some braces even have more attractive options like stars and hearts for kids.

Ever heard of lingual braces?

Lingual braces are yet another type that can be considered. These are typically made from metal and tend to go behind the teeth rather than in front, which makes them undetectable. They are more expensive and require qualified specialists to carry out the procedure.

What are white braces?

White braces are another option for anyone looking for porcelain braces that are tooth-coloured. Despite being less noticeable as compared to metal braces, many people don’t consider using them as they are more expensive and may have a need to be left on the teeth for a longer period.

Clear braces

Translucent or white braces have monocrystalline sapphire as a building component and appear almost undetectable. These braces don’t stain and are comparatively stronger. However, they are more expensive than metal braces or other options.

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Toothbrush Safety: What Do You Know?

Toothbrush Hygiene

Toothbrush Safety: What Do You Know?

Sharing is good… but, what about toothbrushes?

So, you were taught to share everything but please, don’t apply the same rule to your toothbrush. Sharing your toothbrush could be a serious problem as you’ll actually be allowing someone else’s body fluids or microorganisms to enter your mouth and eventually, your blood stream. Doesn’t that put you at greater risk of developing infections or weakening your immune system?

How do you keep the toothbrush clean?

It’s not about how much water you used last night to rinse your toothbrush but it’s rather about how you clean your toothbrush at the right time. By rinsing your toothbrush thoroughly with water right after you brush your teeth, you’re actually aiming at removing any debris or dust on your toothbrush.

Remember, it is always a good idea to store your toothbrush in an upright position since it helps the toothbrush lose the water and become dry before the time it is reused. If you’re holding more than one toothbrush in the same region, you should try keeping the brushes away from each other.

Should I cover my toothbrush?

Well, it is never a bad idea to cover your toothbrush but it’s better to cover them infrequently. By storing your toothbrush in a closed container, you’ll be allowing more bacteria to grow in the moist environment. Replacing your toothbrush every three months is yet another important thing to keep your mouth healthy and bacteria-free.

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Are your teeth cold sensitive?

Sensitive Teeth

Are your teeth cold sensitive?

How often have you had an uncomfortable feeling after having that ice cream after dinner or enjoying the cocktail at the party? If your teeth hurt whenever you consume something cold, then the bad news is that you probably have cold sensitive teeth. Not only isa this dental problem common, but it’s also a problem that is most often overlooked or left unmanaged. So, it’s extremely essential for you to actually get an understanding of how the problem of cold sensitivity differs from gum problems or tooth decay.

Generally, teeth become cold sensitive when their nerves have more exposure because of receding gums or tooth enamel that is worn.

2 Major Causes of Cold Sensitivity:

Tooth Decay or Dental Disease

People with teeth that are sensitive to cold may have a hidden problem of tooth decay or gum problems in the early stage. This is usually true if your teeth hurt while drinking or eating something cold. Did you know that the buildup of plaque on the teeth as well as gums can worsen the condition of cold sensitive teeth by causing other dental problems?

How You Use Oral Products

Some people easily buy into the thought of taking extreme measures for their oral health, which may include the idea of brushing their teeth too hard or using tooth whitening products more often. As a result, there’s an irreversible loss of tooth enamel, which is a problem associated with cold sensitive teeth.

 

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4 Things Your Child Should Know About “Teeth-Healthy” Food Choices

Healthy teeth for your children

4 Things Your Child Should Know About “Teeth-Healthy” Food Choices

Eat your greens

As a parent, it is your job to make your child develop a habit and love for fruit and vegetables. Your child should preferably snack on fruits and veg with high water content, which are better than sweeter options like raisins and bananas in terms of oral health.

Say Cheese Please!

Did you know that cheese is good for your child’s oral health? Options like cheddar, Swiss cheese etc can play an important role in triggering saliva flow, which eventually helps in washing particles of food away from the teeth.

Sticky is yucky!

Discourage your child to snack frequently on sticky foods like granola bars, cookies, jelly beans, raisins or caramel as these foods tend to stick to the teeth. This can create problems for saliva to wash the sugar away. If they do snack on sticky foods, they should brush their teeth immediately, which is why it is always a good idea to serve sugary and sticky foods as meals, not as snacks.

Munching in between meals

Munching in between meals is never a good idea and therefore, children should be encouraged to limit their snacking moments throughout the day. This is particularly useful in discouraging frequent snacking on pops, chocolates and candies.

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Debunking the Myths of Oral Health

Debunking the Myths of Oral Health“Cavity” is a children thing

So, you still think that it’s just children who should worry about cavities? Well, the fact is that even if you have just a single natural tooth left, you can still be a victim of cavities. In fact, cavities are more common as we age since the gums start pulling away from the base of the teeth, which increase root exposure.

I don’t need a dentist anymore

That’s the biggest problem with people who have false teeth. They easily buy into the thought that dentures or false teeth don’t require cleaning or dental checkups.

A bright smile is for the sake of looks

Some people think that healthy, shiny teeth are a matter of looks, not health. Well, that is certainly a wrong way of thinking as your oral health is directly associated with the number of healthy years you’ll most likely enjoy.

Oral health and Physical Fitness are 2 separate departments

If that’s what you believe, then face the truth. You can never be in good physical health if you have poor oral health.

The tooth brushing myth

Some people mistakenly think that bleeding is normal during the process of tooth brushing. Did you know that bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease? Besides, there are other people who think that brushing will only remove food particles. Well, you’re wrong once again if you think the same. Tooth brushing is important for your overall teeth and gum health, not just for removing food particles.

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Dairy Foods for Healthy Teeth

Dairy Foods for Healthy TeethNo doubt, milk is an excellent source of calcium and essential nutrients that our body needs. But it’s particularly beneficial for the health of our teeth and bones. The calcium in milk helps strengthen the tooth enamel (which is actually the tooth’s outer layer) and doesn’t have acidity. Many studies have revealed that milk and cheese play an important role in protecting the enamel from degradation that results from high acidic foods. And the best part is that these dairy foods can actually reverse the damage done.

But isn’t milk high in sugar?

Yes of course it is. Milk has a high simple sugar content, which makes it a drink that should be consumed in moderation. If you’re having excessive amounts of milk and beverages made from milk, you’re putting your oral health at risk. Children need more milk than adults, which is perhaps why most health experts recommend adults to have yogurt and cheese as an alternative or in higher amounts as compared to their daily intake of milk.

Cheese is an excellent option for taking care of your oral health. Not only, is it rich in calcium, but it also has Vitamin D in addition to being low in acidity. Health experts believe that cheese can help prevent cavities as the calcium along with phosphorus present in cheese aim at infiltrating the plaque layer surrounding the teeth for remineralizing and preventing erosion. Cheese is also known for its benefit of stimulating saliva production that clears away particles of food.

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Healthy Mouth: 3 Rules to Stick to This Season!

3 rules for a healthy mouth

Healthy Mouth: 3 Rules to Stick to This Season!Rule # 1: Regular Brushing and Flossing

No doubt, brushing and flossing is at top of the list. Why? By brushing your teeth on a regular basis, you’re making sure that countless oral health problems are kept at bay. These oral health problems range from bad breath to periodontal diseases. In fact, flossing and brushing are extremely important for keeping your heart healthy by keeping the bacteria in your mouth from getting into the blood stream.

Rule# 2: Your Diet and Nutrition

Don’t buy into the mistake of ignoring your diet, especially when it comes to taking care of your oral health. Make sure that you have plenty of veggies and fruits as part of your diet and you take dairy foods in moderation to stimulate the saliva flow in your mouth. Sugar and starch in foods are the root cause of most cases of tooth decay. So make sure you limit your intake of sugary and sticky foods.

Rule# 3: Quit Snacking

Tooth decay is one of the biggest problems associated with frequent snacking as we are typically too lazy to brush our teeth right after snacking on sugary foods. The PH level in your mouth remains acidic each time you have your meals; which takes certain time to get back to the normal level. When you eat again and again between your meals, this acidic level can’t be brought back to the normal level and the bacterial action is increased. As a result, you develop caries.

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Does Your Tooth Hurt When Walking?

Painful teeth when walking

Does Your Tooth Hurt When Walking?Just about every person experiences tooth ache at some point in their life. Whether it’s tooth sensitivity or an immensely painful oral condition, oral health issues may indicate serious internal health problems. And in some cases, walking along with other types of bodily movement can make your dental problems even worse.

What’s an Exposed Root?

A tooth is basically made up of a crown along with a single or more roots. Enamel is responsible for covering the crown while cementum is aimed at covering the root surface. As the gum tissue surrounding a root starts receding, the root’s surface is exposed. The dentin is present just below cementum on your root surface that has microscopic channels to the dental pulp. When you brush your teeth or chew foods, the thin layer of cementum is removed while exposing the sensitive dentin. And when you walk, the cool air getting through the mouth leads to tooth sensitivity.

Walking and Tooth Decay

Bacteria present in your saliva are actively involved in breaking down sugars as well as starches for the formation of acid. This acid leads to a cavity in the tooth’s enamel. If the decay is left untreated, the cavity penetrates into the underlying dentin and leads to a toothache. People experiencing tooth decay usually find that their teeth hurt while they’re walking or running.

Does Walking Affect Abscessed Tooth?

Cracks in the teeth, decay, frequent dental procedures as well as trauma are some of the major factors that contribute to the development of an abscessed tooth, which calls for a root canal as a treatment approach. An abscess results from the inflammation of the dental pulp, which will most likely cause severe infection. The infected pulp can lead to a tooth bone infection, affecting the ligament as well as soft tissues near the tooth. The pus accumulated as a result of this infection develops into a toothache. Walking or engaging in just about any other type of vigorous body movement can aggravate this infection while increasing the intensity of pain.

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What Do You Know About Pericoronitis?

Pericoronitis

What Do You Know About Pericoronitis?Are you experiencing inflammation or pain in your gums? Is it the back of your mouth that hurts? If so, then you should get yourself checked for an oral problem called pericoronitis. Even though this condition is quite common, it can have severe consequences if left untreated.

The person experiencing pericoronitis develops an infection in the gum tissue surrounding the molars. Pericoronitis mostly results from bacteria as well as food that is trapped below the gum tissue flap covering a tooth that has partial eruption. The condition is usually experienced by young adults who are between 17-24, and whose wisdom teeth are beginning to erupt. Improper practices of oral hygiene along with the position of your wisdom tooth are two major factors contributing to the accumulation of debris and food particles.

Know The Signs

Check for these symptoms if you think you might have this condition:

  • Swelling in the gums surrounding your molars
  • Odour or bad taste
  • Trouble swallowing foods and difficulty closing and/or opening your mouth
  • Fever with swelling in your jaw and neck If you’re facing any of these symptoms, you should consult your dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic right away. Your dentist will be able to recommend the most ideal treatment plan based on your dental examination.

Can You Prevent It?

These are a few things that you can do to prevent pericoronitis:

1. Good oral hygiene practices along with regular brushing.

2. Giving special attention to the removal of food particles from wisdom teeth that are undergoing eruption.

3. Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing.

4. Having regular dental checkups.

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Tooth Sensitivity- All You Should Know

Tooth Sensitivity- All You Should KnowWhat is tooth sensitivity?

Does eating an orange make you shout “ouch”? If so, then you might be suffering from tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is characterized by discomfort in your teeth that gets triggered by cold, hot, sour, or sweet foods and beverages. Tooth sensitivity may even be triggered by breathing cold air. Pain in tooth sensitivity can be sudden, sharp and may affect the nerve endings of the teeth.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Here is a list of factors that might result in sensitive teeth:

Brushing too hard

Improper brushing with a hard-bristled brush can lead to wearing down of the enamel, exposing the dentin. It may also cause the gums to recede from the teeth.

Pulling away of the gums

Recession of gums from a tooth as a result of conditions like periodontal disease exposes the root surface.

Tooth decay

Tooth decay near the gumline can also lead to tooth sensitivity.

Gingivitis (gum diseases)

Sore and inflamed gum tissue might lead to sensitivity as a result of the loss of supporting ligaments, exposing the root surface.

Teeth grinding

Clenching or grinding the teeth might cause wearing down of the enamel, exposing the underlying dentin.

Cracked teeth

Broken or chipped teeth might get accumulated with bacteria due to plaque, which may enter the pulp leading to Inflammation.

Tooth whitening products

Teeth whitening products can negatively affect your oral health, causing tooth sensitivity.

Plaque build-up

Plaque formation on the surface of the root can cause tooth sensitivity.

Your age

People between 25 and 30 years of age are mostly affected by tooth sensitivity.

Mouthwash use

Using certain mouthwashes for a long time also contributes to sensitive teeth.

Recent dental procedures

Sensitivity may be a result of recent teeth cleaning, crown placement, tooth restoration and root planing. Tooth sensitivity due to dental procedures is temporary and disappears in 4 to 6 weeks.

Acidic foods

Consuming foods or drink containing acid on a regular basis, such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, tea and pickles, can lead to enamel erosion.

If you experience continuous tooth sensitivity, consult a professional dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic immediately.

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Dental Braces-How to Brush and Floss?

orthodontic brackets need to be kept cleanMaintaining a good oral hygiene has become even more important for people who wear braces. Dental braces have small spaces where plaque and food particles get trapped, which if not cleaned, can lead to enamel staining as well as tooth decay around bands and brackets.

Make sure to brush properly after each meal with a soft bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride. Rinse your mouth thoroughly and look in the mirror to check if they are clean. Use a floss threader to floss properly between braces as well as under wires. Moreover, visit an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic to have the teeth cleaned every five to six months to keep the teeth and gums healthy.

How to Take Care of Your Braces?

Here are the following steps that will make brushing and flossing effective and simple:

  1. Prepare to brush by taking off elastics as well as other removable parts of the orthodontic appliance.
  2. Use the brush at an angle of 45-degree to clean around the pins and wires of the braces. Make sure that all debris and plaque are removed by brushing from the top as well as the bottom of every wire.
  3. Brush every tooth separately and brush in a circular motion for about 10 seconds.
  4. Use super floss to floss your teeth at least once a day. Super floss is a kind of floss that is designed to clean around braces. Get help from a dentist on how to use super floss.
  5. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and check the teeth. Your teeth and braces should shine, sparkle and feel clean.

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How Are Sinus Infections Related To Toothaches?

How Are Sinus Infections Related To Toothaches?A lot of people don’t know this but sinus infections can sometimes be related to toothaches. Basically, sinus infections result from factors like allergic reactions, nasal obstructions or bodily infections. However, sometimes, these infections result from an infection in the maxillary tooth. If you’re having pain in your teeth, your pain may have a relation with a sinus infection. Some studies even suggest that sinus infections have some connection with cavities, impacted teeth, crown fractures and some other dental problems.

Did you know that sinus infections, if left untreated, can even cause problems in maintaining dental hygiene?

They may even contribute to bad breath since sinus drainage tends to fall into your mouth.

The Diagnosis of the condition

If your dentist wants to confirm whether your toothache is related to a sinus infection, he/she may carry out a percussion test by tapping on your individual teeth to determine the site or origin of the pain. If you have a sinus infection, the pain will most likely be felt in all of your teeth.

If chronic sinus infections aren’t treated for long, they may have an impact on your teeth. According to the dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic, you may find it hard to establish whether your sinus infection is related to toothache as the roots of your upper teeth have a close connection with the maxillary sinus cavities.

Based on the source and nature of nasal discomfort that is hurting your teeth, the treatment plan may involve use of nasal drops and medications along with proper dental treatment for repairing any affected areas in the mouth.

 

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Do You Have A Gummy Smile?

Do You Have A Gummy Smile?Many people aren’t comfortable when smiling because their pearly whites aren’t white enough. But for some people, a smile can be embarrassing because the look of their upper teeth becomes overshadowed by their gum tissue. If your upper teeth have an extremely short look as compared to the visibility of gingival tissue when smiling, then you most probably have a dental condition known as the gummy smile.

No doubt, gummy smile can have a negative impact on the esthetics of a person who is experiencing it. However, you can always seek help of dental experts at Brighton Implant Clinic to get the condition treated.

What May Cause It?

So, what causes a person’s smile to have this problem?

  • You may have a gummy smile because your teeth had an abnormal eruption. Teeth covered by excessive gum tissue have a shorter appearance, even if they have the appropriate length.
  • The muscle controlling your upper lip’s movement can also be hyperactive, which may result in an unusual lift of your upper lip. As a result of this, your gum tissue show more when smiling.
  • The nature of the growth of your upper jaw bone may also contribute to the development of a gummy smile. For example, if there’s an unusual bulging protrusion of your upper jaw inside the gum tissue, the gummy appearance of your smile is obvious.

The smile line or the teeth displayed when smiling can be established by a couple of factors, which include:

  • The size as well as the shape of your lips.
  • The muscles of your face.
  • Your teeth size and shape.
  • And of course, the gum tissue.

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Teeth Whitening- How It Is Done

Teeth Whitening- How It Is DoneA healthy bright smile is always considered a confidence booster. But due to our lifestyle, having that perfect flashing smile has become difficult to maintain. Most people experience teeth stains very early in their life. Fortunately there’re a number of methods that can help you get rid of yellow teeth. Teeth whitening procedure is among the best options available to brighten your smile.

A lot of people use the teeth whitening products available over the counter guarantee quick results. But it is important to note that the majority of stains extend to your teeth’s inner parts. Teeth whitening products are only effective for removing stains resulting from extrinsic factors such as tobacco and coffee and not due to bacterial decay. If your teeth are stained deeply, considering porcelain veneers would be the most effective option.

Bleaching kits
Bleaching kits include a mouthpiece tray that’s affixed to your teeth and a whitening gel. Using these bleaching kits for a long time can help you whiten teeth and get rid of teeth stains. But you should confirm if these whitening kits are safe for your teeth.

Laser whitening
A popular teeth whitening method is the laser whitening system. A strong whitening gel as well as a mouthpiece tray is used in this method, which takes around 30 minutes to complete. This method is quite effective and laser devices are used to further enhance the bleaching action.

Whitening Toothpastes
Whitening toothpastes are also effective if used over a long period of time.

Whichever whitening method you choose, make sure to do proper research and consult an experienced dentist at a dental implant clinic UK before using it. Some of the most common teeth whitening products are given as follows:

• Whitening strips

• Light therapy and Laser whitening

• Bleaching kits

• Toothpastes

• Chewing gum

• Paint-on lotions and gels

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What Happens Inside Your Mouth?

What Happens Inside Your Mouth?In order to know the mechanism of dental decay, it is very important to learn about the processes going on inside the mouth. Some of them are listed below:

Secretion of saliva: – Saliva is normally continuously secreted inside the mouth by the salivary glands. The basic function of saliva is to protect our oral health. The saliva helps in chewing by mixing with food; provides moisture to teeth, gums, tongue, etc; and also mixes certain enzymes with food which help in digestion. Moreover, saliva has anti-bacterial properties and keeps the acid- level inside the mouth under control to prevent decay.

Plaque formation: – Plaque is a tooth damaging substance which builds up on the teeth. Plaque is formed by the combination of bacteria with food particles and grows as bacteria multiply. If the teeth are not properly cleaned and the plaque is allowed to stay for a long duration of time, it causes cavity formation and eventually leads to tooth loss.

Development of calculus: – Plaque buildup, if left untreated, starts absorbing minerals present in the saliva. New layers of plaque are formed by crystallization of the minerals and it continues to grow, ultimately converting into a hard calculus.

Role of bacteria: – Several species of bacteria are always present inside the mouth and play an important role in the process of dental decay. Notable tooth destroying bacteria include Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacilli, etc.

Maintaining a good oral hygiene by regularly visiting an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic can help you prevent many oral health conditions.

 

 

 

 

 

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Vitamin C Deficiency Promotes Gingivitis

Gingivitis

Vitamin C Deficiency Promotes GingivitisGum infections can occur due to a number of reasons, including poor nutrition. Lack of vitamin C can result in bleeding gums, which if left untreated, can lead to gum infection. Vitamin C helps your body maintain and repair teeth, cartilage and bones, as well as heal wounds.

People who experience bleeding gums should start following a healthy, nutritious diet plan as it is often nutritional deficiency that leads to bleeding gums. Make sure to eat foods that have a high-content of vitamin C or take vitamin-C supplements. Don’t forget to discuss your dietary needs with a highly experienced dental professional at Brighton Implant Clinic. Foods that are rich in Vitamin C include carrots, oranges, red peppers and sweet potatoes. Eating fruits and vegetables that are high in Vitamin-C is better than consuming fruit or vegetable juices. Most juices do not only have a high sugar content but they are also very acidic, promoting tooth enamel erosion. If you still want to drink fruit juices, try to use a straw as this minimizes the contact of the juice with your teeth.

Consult a doctor before taking vitamin C supplements or multivitamins every day. One of the most important things is to schedule regular dental checkups at a dental implant clinic UK as this will help rule out any potential oral health conditions. Remember, a healthy mouth equals a healthy body and of course, a healthy you!

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Dental Flossers

Dental Flossers

Dental FlossersIf you’re assisting a child with oral hygiene or if you do not like reaching into the back of your mouth, using a dental flosser is the best solution for you. A dental flosser is a piece of floss attached to a handle. There are many kinds of dental flossers available on the market. Some dental flossers are labelled as “floss picks” because they’ve picks on one end. Flossers are a great way to promote dental hygiene around and between the teeth. Try to choose a dental flosser that has a compact head and a long handle.

Types of Dental Flossers

Some dental flossers are completely disposable while other flossers have refillable, disposable heads. Moreover, you can purchase dental flossers that are designed with special handles that make them easier to hold and clean the teeth. There are certain dental flossers that contain an area which functions as a tongue scraper.

Battery-Powered Dental Flossers

You can also try a battery-powered dental flosser that not only cleans around your teeth but also massages your gums.

 

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Wisdom Tooth Extraction – Foods To Avoid

Foods to avoid after tooth extraction

foods to avoid after having extractions

After teeth extractions, it is very important to modify your behavior and your diet to accommodate the empty spaces where the wisdom teeth were present. The extraction of wisdom teeth requires you to limit your diet, particularly during the 48 hours after the extraction. After some days, you can start eating solid foods, however for a week, you should avoid eating food that can get stuck in the surgical area.

Hot Beverages

According to an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic, consuming hot beverages is not allowed during the recovery period. Hot beverages include hot teas, hot chocolate and coffee as well as any other hot drink. Moreover, you can’t drink alcoholic drinks or use straws.

Foods

You should avoid any food that can cause pain or get stuck in the surgical area. Crunchy foods like crisps, raw vegetables and nuts as well as foods that are difficult to chew should be avoided. Stay away from stringy foods like meat as it can get stuck in the surgical area. Don’t eat spicy foods.

Make sure you consult an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic to discuss your diet during the recovery period.


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How Are Oral Care and Pregnancy Related?

How Are Oral Care and Pregnancy Related?Did you know that overlooking oral care can invite a great deal of trouble during your pregnancy? Permanent health issues for your baby may occur as a result of the ignorance of tooth issues during pregnancy.

Many people don’t know this but pregnancy can make tooth issues worse, causing gum diseases as well as toothaches. According to the dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic, pregnancy causes a boost in mouth acidity , which eventually leads to an increase in the chances of developing cavities as well as tooth decay. Morning sickness doesn’t only add to to the issue but it also increases tooth exposure to gastric acid. This sickness often encourages pregnant women to skip brushing their teeth, which is injurious to oral hygiene. Similarly, changes in hormonal levels worsen inflammation if experiencing gum disease. Irritations like tartar development can lead to pregnancy tumors or gum tissue overgrowth.

It is important to understand that dental problems negatively affect your baby while causing problems in pregnancy. Tooth issues also have a connection with high blood pressure during pregnancy. Babies with low birth weight have greater chances of developing complications like respiratory issues, brain bleeding , vision problems as well as illnesses.

Basic care plays an important role in preventing dental issues while you’re pregnant. Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush following meal is just as important as flossing nightly. Chewing sugar-free gum following meals can be highly effective in increasing the production of saliva as well as warding off the growth of bacteria. A fluoride-based mouthwash should also be used on a regular basis.

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How Is A gummy Smile Treated?

How Is A gummy Smile Treated?In most cases, the causes of gummy smile aren’t that serious. But, based on the factors contributing to the condition, there can be some serious underlying oral conditions. For instance, if a person is experiencing a gummy smile because of the abnormal eruption of teeth and unusual development of the jaw, he/she may face the problem of of having an improper bite that eventually affects the long-term health.

For people having a gummy smile, the problem isn’t that big because dentists have effective procedures to treat this condition. After an examination of the mouth, the dentist tries to figure out the nature of the gingival display along with determining potential causes. The dental examination may require conventional or digital impressions of the patient’s teeth as well as gums. In some cases, X-ray imaging can also be a requirement for careful examination of the tooth roots and jaw bone.

If your smile is extremely gummy, you may be referred to a specialist like a periodontist or an oral surgeon. Based on the nature of clinical conditions, the treatment plan for a gummy smile may include some of the following options:

  • For minor cases, the dentists may perform same-day laser treatments.
  • In some cases, a surgical procedure is required for repositioning the lip.
  • The dentist may recommend the use of braces for moving the teeth into more appropriate positions.
  • Another option can be surgical sculpting of the patient’s gingival tissues as well as bone for creating healthier and attractive gum contours.
  • A maxillofacial surgery may also be performed for repositioning the bone.


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Which Type of Dental Floss Would You Use?

Which Type of Dental Floss Would You Use?No doubt, flossing is the simplest way of ensuring that your teeth are healthy. Unfortunately, most people overlook the benefits of flossing because they think that brushing their teeth or rinsing the mouth with mouthwash is just enough. But the fact is that if a person flosses on a regular basis, the teeth not only stay clean for 24 hours but the build-up of bacteria can also be prevented. Dental floss usually come in portable containers or tubes, so they can be used anywhere. The flexibility of dental floss makes it better than toothpick, especially in terms of oral hygiene.

What to Look for in A Dental Floss?

Now that you’ve realized the importance of flossing, it is time to look for a quality dental floss to take care of your pearly whites. There are a number of different types of floss available in the market. These include teflon coated floss, tape, waxed or unwaxed, floss holder or floss increasing in size as being used. But, deciding on the specific type of floss to use is a personal choice and should be based on any oral health issues that you may be experiencing.

Arthritic patients or children are more likely to prefer the use of tape or dental holder since these floss are easier to use. But there are other people who would use the floss that increases in size as it gets between the user’s teeth.

For people who need a great deal of dental work to be done, using unwaxed floss can cause problems because this type has more chances of breaking off and sticking between the teeth. However, if you have had some dental fillings, crowns or caps done, you may use the coated or waxed floss.

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Receding Gums – Causes

What causes receding gums?

Receding Gums - Causes

There are various factors that can lead to receding gums, including:

Your genes

According to a number of studies, 30% of people may develop gum disease despite the fact that they maintain a good oral hygiene.

Periodontal diseases

Periodontal disease is characterized by bacterial gum infection that destroys supporting bone and gum tissue that hold the teeth in place. Periodontal disease is the major cause of receding gums.

Brushing you teeth hard

Aggressive tooth brushing can lead to teeth enamel erosion as well as receding gums.

Hormonal fluctuations

Changes in the levels of female hormones during pregnancy, menopause and puberty can cause gums sensitivity, making gums more vulnerable to recession.

Insufficient oral care

Poor oral hygiene can cause serious oral conditions and even tooth decay. If your teeth aren’t brushed and flossed daily, tartar will form on your teeth, which can only be removed by an experienced dental professional at Brighton Implant Clinic. The tartar on your teeth can also lead to gum recession.

Clenching and grinding your teeth

Grinding or clenching your teeth can result in gums recession.

Misaligned bite or crooked teeth

Crooked teeth can put a lot of force on the bone and gums, causing gum recession.

 

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Oral Care Tips For Kids

Oral Care Tips For KidsTeaching daily oral care to your kids will help them prevent tooth decay as well as other serious oral health conditions. Here are some oral care tips for your kids:

Oral Hygiene

Kids should brush their teeth twice a day and floss their teeth regularly. Moreover, have your kids visit an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic every 4-6 months to maintain a good dental hygiene. If your kid is too young to brush his or her teeth, then you should brush your kid’s teeth. Make sure to choose a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and pea-size toothpaste to brush your kid’s teeth.

Preventing Tooth decays

Tooth cavities and decays can be prevented by following a good oral hygiene, but there are other certain things that you should do prevent your kid from developing tooth cavities. One of the most important thing is to use toothpaste that has fluoride in it. When the permanent teeth of your kid have erupted, make sure to consult your dentist and discuss about sealants for your kid’s teeth.

Dental Habits

While kids can develop good dental habits at a young age, it is extremely important for them to break the bad habits such as drinking a sugary beverage right before going to bed. Thumb sucking is also a bad habit that should be nipped in the bud.

Dental Problems

If your kid develops a dental condition, visit a specially trained dental professional at Brighton Implant Clinic as soon as possible.

Maintaining a good oral hygiene is extremely important to keep your smile bright. Teaching daily oral care to your kids will help them prevent tooth decay as well as other serious oral health conditions. Here are some oral care tips for your kids:

Oral Hygiene

Kids should brush their teeth twice a day and floss their teeth regularly. Moreover, have your kids visit an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic every 4-6 months to maintain a good dental hygiene. If your kid is too young to brush his or her teeth, then you should brush your kid’s teeth. Make sure to choose a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and pea-size toothpaste to brush your kid’s teeth.

Preventing Tooth decays

Tooth cavities and decays can be prevented by following a good oral hygiene, but there are other certain things that you should do prevent your kid from developing tooth cavities. One of the most important thing is to use toothpaste that has fluoride in it. When the permanent teeth of your kid have erupted, make sure to consult your dentist and discuss about sealants for your kid’s teeth.

Dental Habits

While kids can develop good dental habits at a young age, it is extremely important for them to break the bad habits such as drinking a sugary beverage right before going to bed. Thumb sucking is also a bad habit and should be nipped in the bud.

Dental Problems

If your kid develops a dental condition, visit a specially trained dental professional at Brighton Implant Clinic as soon as possible.

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HPV Virus-All You Need To Know

HPV Virus-All You Need To KnowInfection with HPV or human papilloma virus can cause warts or lesions on the tongue, tonsils or soft palate. Teens as well as sexually active women who are 25 years old or younger have an increased risk of developing HPV infections. Having a lot of sexual partners can significantly increase the chances of developing HPV infections.

Symptoms of HPV Infection

Usually, there are no symptoms of HPV. But some symptoms that may appear include:

  • Local soreness or itching
  • Abnormal Pap smears
  • White, flesh colored, pink or brownish warts. Warts can be completely flat or appear like miniature cauliflowers
  • In women, warts may appear on the urethra, vagina, vulva, cervix, thighs and or anus.
  • In men, warts may appear on the scrotum, penis, anus, inside the urethra and or thighs.
  • Usually genital warts develop within three months of contact.

There’re many kinds of HPV . Oral lesions are connected with the kinds of HPV which have a lower risk for cancer, for example, type 6 or type 11, and higher risk for cancer, for example, type 16 or type 18. Therefore, it is very important to determine which type of HPV you have.

Make sure to consult an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic if you notice lesions on the tongue or in the mouth.

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Geographic Tongue-What You Should Know

Geographic Tongue-What You Should KnowGeographic tongue is characterized by a condition that affects the surface of the tongue. Normally, your tongue is covered with pinkish-white tiny bumps (papillae). With this condition, patches on the tongue’s surface are missing bumps and appear as red smooth “islands,” typically with somewhat raised borders.

Because of these lesions or patches, the tongue appears to be map-like or geographic. The patches usually heal in a single area and then migrate to a different area of the tongue.

Although geographic tongue is harmless, it can sometimes lead to tongue discomfort as well as increased sensitivity to some substances.

Symptoms of geographic tongue

Symptoms of this condition include:

  • Red, smooth irregularly shaped lesions (patches) on the side or top of the tongue
  • Changes in the size, shape and location of patches — daily or hourly
  • Pain, burning sensation or discomfort in some cases, usually connected with eating hot, salty, spicy or acidic foods

If the symptoms of geographic tongue persist for over 10 days, consult with an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic to identify any oral health condition. This condition gets better with time but might appear again at some point in life.

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Dietary Habits For Dental Decay

Dietary Habits For Dental DecayEating healthy may help you lose weight but it has more significance in terms of your oral health. Did you know that the consumption of essential nutrients can help fight dental decay?

When talking about diet and nutrition, calcium is a popular mineral choice known for healthy teeth and bones. Your tooth enamel is composed of calcium phosphate as well as calcium bicarbonate and if you work on strengthening your enamel, you’ll most likely delay the development of tooth decay. Calcium can be consumed by eating dairy or fortified foods, including more fruits and taking calcium supplements.

Vitamin C is yet another essential nutrient that your teeth need. Vitamin C is directly linked with the strength of your immune system and your dental health has a close connection with your immune system. Did you know that your immune system plays an important role in healing affected areas of your mouth as well as preventing further infection? Vitamin C is present in citrus fruits as well as certain vegetables.

Tooth decay has been found to be linked with the intake of carbohydrates like refined sugar. As the bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar, acids are produced in your mouth. The acid leads to a decay in the enamel of your teeth and is a major cause of cavities. You can avoid tooth problems by limiting your intake of sugary foods.

 

Dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic recommend drinking plenty of water as it helps in maintaining adequate saliva in the mouth. Saliva is essential in terms of the prevention of tooth decay as it rinses away food while counteracting acid production.

 

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How Zinc and Citric Acid Affect Your Teeth?

How Zinc and Citric Acid Affect Your Teeth?

How does Zinc affect Your Teeth?

People who consume zinc in sufficient amounts naturally have certain amount of zinc in their teeth, saliva and even in the plaque. Research has shown that the accumulations of zinc that develop before the teeth experience eruption can be associated with tooth maturation following eruption. In mouthwash as well as toothpaste, zinc plays an important role in inhibiting bacterial growth; which in turn, causes reductions in the buildup of plaque as well as bad breath.

Is Zinc Related to Enamel Loss?

The use of fluoride based toothpaste and mouthwash helps in hardening the affected enamel through remineralization. But, excessive intake of zinc tends to decrease the effectiveness of this process by making the enamel absorb new mineral content in fewer amounts. The effects of zinc on enamel don’t pose any cavity risks to your teeth though.

What about Citric Acid?

The citric acid found in fruits as well as carbonated soft drinks contribute toward the dissolving of calcium salts that constitute the surface of your teeth. As the tooth surface starts decalcifying, plaque begins to form while eroding tooth enamel. As a result, your teeth aren’t only brittle but they also become sensitive to pain.

How to prevent the loss?

Dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic suggest that if carbonated beverages are consumed, they should be taken at mealtime as eating promotes saliva production, which will be helpful in washing off the acid in your mouth. The teeth should be brushed after meals while swishing water around the mouth for encouraging saliva production.

 

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Oral Care for Children with Autism

Oral Care for Children with AutismBeing a parent or caretaker of special children is not an easy job. And when you’re upbringing an autistic child, things can be a lot more challenging. What many parents aren’t aware of is the fact that children with autism need the same kind of oral care that a regular child would need. For example, the germs causing cavities could pass from parent to child. So making sure not to kiss the infant on the lip or sharing foods is very important.

Here are a couple of things that can be done to ensure that an autistic child maintains good oral health:

  • Cleaning the baby’s mouth earlier on and encouraging regular tooth brushing is extremely important- especially when the child’s first tooth starts erupting.
  • The child shouldn’t be allowed to sleep with a bottle of milk or juice.
  • Talk to your dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic about giving a fluoride supplement to your child.
  • Your child should have regular dental check-ups as soon as he turns one year old. This will help him overcome any fears of dental visits from a young age.
  • Encourage flossing as soon as your child’s teeth begin touching each other.
  • Always try to give your child healthy foods instead of offering sugary foods as treats or rewards.

No doubt, children with autism need special care at home. This job does require determination as well as perseverance on the parent’s end but what you get in return is worth your efforts.

 

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Taking Care of Your Teething Baby

Taking Care of Your Teething Baby

When your child is experiencing the teething stage, he’s actually having his baby teeth coming up. The whole process can cause a certain level of discomfort while accompanying signs like sensitivity in gums, drooling, sleeping issues as well as fussiness. Your baby may chomp on things, thinking that it may help relieve pressure from the gums. At times, babies even refuse having food because of the discomfort caused when eating.

In order to relieve the discomfort experienced by your teething child, it is a good idea to arrange a teething ring or a safer object for your baby to chew on, which may help in relieving the gums. You can keep your baby’s skin rash-free by wiping his face often for preventing drool that eventually causes rashes on the skin. Another idea could be rubbing petroleum jelly around your baby’s mouth before putting him to bed, which will help in preventing drool from irritating your baby’s facial skin. You may also consider massaging your baby’s gums with clean hands.

Dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic recommend parent to avoid putting their children to bed with a bottle of milk in mouth. This is the most common cause of decay in baby’s teeth. The teeth can also be kept clean if wiped with a wet cloth on a regular basis. Using a soft toothbrush for cleaning baby teeth once your baby has turned 18 months old is just as important as making your teething baby see a dentist so that any signs of tooth decay and possible oral problems can be detected and treated.

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Tooth Extraction-When to Start Eating?

Tooth Extraction-When to Start Eating?At times, teeth become so much decayed or affected that they require an extraction. Dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic always give instructions and follow-up advice to patients regarding the eating habits after they have undergone the extraction procedure. But, how long should you wait until you can finally start eating following your extraction?

Once the teeth have been pulled, dentists ask the patient to bite down on gauze for reducing bleeding and forming a blood clot for faster healing. The gauze is usually advised to be placed for thirty minutes. No food or drink should be consumed at this time as it may lead to the dislocation of the blood clot which is important in terms of healing.

During the day following the extraction, the patient may experience some swelling or pain. So, it’s recommended to have soft or pureed foods. If the extraction was meant for multiple teeth, a liquid-based diet of soups and cold fluids should be taken. Consumption of hot beverages or caffeinated drinks is not recommended. The mouth should only be rinsed after the first twenty-four hours following extraction.

After the first day, it is advisable to start eating semi-solid foods only if they can be tolerated. Hot and hard foods should be avoided as they tend to cause an irritation in the socket area. In the case of extraction of wisdom tooth, it may take longer than usual for the tooth to heal.

 

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Cleaning Your Baby’s Teeth-Are You Doing It The Right Way?

Cleaning Your Baby’s Teeth-Are You Doing It The Right Way?So you’re all happy and excited to see your baby’s teeth starting to come in. But, are you doing enough to offer complete oral care for making sure that your child’s adult teeth come in healthy too? What most parents don’t realize is that baby teeth are more likely to develop decay as well as cavities because of the unavoidable use of milk bottles and juices. The good news is parents can provide maximum protection to their baby’s teeth by taking the right steps of cleaning and looking after their baby’s teeth.

The first step is to realize the importance of introducing the use of toothbrush to your child at an earlier stage. There are infant toothbrushes available in the market today that are small as well as soft, which will help your baby get used to regular brushing.

When you’re brushing your baby’s teeth, make sure that you do it gently on every surface at least two times a day. It isn’t necessary to use toothpaste for brushing unless your child turns two years of age, but you may use baking soda in combination with water for cleaning the teeth. Warm water can be used too until your baby has started having table food or developed more teeth. Or if you want to use a wet cloth for wiping the teeth, go ahead.

 

Always look for possible signs of cavities or dental problems. The signs of cavity in baby teeth are discolored teeth or slight pitting in teeth. If the baby isn’t put to bed with milk bottles in mouth, cavities can be avoided.

Lastly, it is important to make sure that you schedule an appointment for your baby with your dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic. Making children visit the dentist between the ages of six and twelve months plays an important role in ensuring maximum preventative care.

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How Does Nutrition Deficiency Affect Your Oral Health?

How Does Nutrition Deficiency Affect Your Oral Health?What many people don’t know or seem to understand is the fact that bacteria present in their mouths are actively busy in converting the foods consumed into acids, particularly sugars along with starches. Now, these bacteria, food particles, acid as well as saliva form a combination that results in the development of plaque. If plaque isn’t removed, the acids will keep dissolving the enamel on your teeth surface, eventually resulting in cavities. The nutritional deficiency in your body will not only increase plaque but it’ll also boost your chances of developing dental caries.

Mucin is a special protein that constitutes the saliva in your mouth. This protein plays an important role in preventing the erosion of your tooth enamel. You need to have vitamin A for effective formation of mucin as a deficiency in this vitamin will increase your chances of developing dental caries. Your body also needs sufficient amounts of vitamin C for creating collagen that forms tooth dentin. Having calcium along with vitamin D is essential in terms of mineralizing strong bones as well as teeth. If your body has a deficiency of these vitamins, you’re at increased risk of having dental caries.

Calcium is of course an extremely important mineral that helps structure the formation of teeth. After the teeth have fully developed, there isn’t any change in their composition later on. Dietary mineral deficiencies may result in the weakening of the structural integrity of developing teeth while predisposing them to dental caries.

 

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How Will Your Dentist Do Bonding?

How Will Your Dentist Do Bonding?Dentists usually start with using a shade guide for the selection of the most appropriate color to match your tooth’s color. And if needed, the tooth will be shaped with a drill, which will be followed by etching the tooth’s surface with an acid for roughening it. The tooth is then washed as well as coated using a conditioning liquid that causes the material used for bonding to stick.

The resin is then applied in layers, with each layer being hardened by laser or ultra violet light before the next application. In some cases, different colors are layered for ensuring a closer match to the natural shade of teeth. After the bonding material has hardened, it is trimmed and shaped by the dentist, which is followed by polish for matching the sheen of the remaining part of the tooth.

Usually, the whole procedure doesn’t take any longer than 30-60 minutes. However, if more than one tooth requires bonding, it may take more time.

According to the dentists at Brighton Implant clinic, patients should be advised to avoid or limit their intake of caffeinated drinks and smoking as the use of such substances will most likely stain the resin that was used during the procedure. After a patient undergoes the procedure, it is also very important to be extremely careful in terms of eating and drinking for the first 48 hours. Brushing the teeth on a regular basis is just as important as keeping in touch with your dentist for follow-up advice and recommendations.

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Fizzy Drinks and Your Teeth

Soda and Your TeethEach day, we consume at least a glass or two of soda without thinking about the risks it poses to our oral as well as overall health. Most sodas contain sugar, which is actively involved in the development of tooth decay. Let’s say, if you’re consuming a single can of soda, you’re actually bathing your teeth in as much sugar as in three to four candy bars. Drinking sodas on a frequent basis tends to develop a continuous supply of sugar while increasing your chances of developing decay.

In addition to the high levels of sugar, a majority of sodas have phosphoric acid as well as citric acid. These acids are added for providing a tart or sour flavor to these drinks and contribute toward the erosion of tooth enamel. When your enamel starts softening, it can be eroded more easily as it is exposed to more acids in sodas. As a result, you have weakened teeth. The levels of acids present in sodas greatly vary, based on the soda brand as well as the type of soda.

In order to decrease your chances of developing tooth decay from soda, it is important that you realize how important it is to limit your intake of sugary beverages. Dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic recommend brushing the teeth on a regular basis while encouraging the patients to opt for fluoride-based mouthwashes that help in reminalirizing the tooth enamel. Chewing gum is also essential for producing saliva that acts as a buffer to the the effects of acids along with offering a defense against decay.

 

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The connection between eating habits and dental cavities

The connection between eating habits and cavitiesJust about everyone broods about the development of cavities but a very few people take the right steps to prevent cavities. What you need to realize is that your lifestyle and eating habits are connected to your chances of developing oral cavities.

No doubt, the most common cause of cavities is sugar and carbohydrate-based diet that can be easily converted into acids in your mouth. So, excessive intake of sugary foods tends to enhance your chances of developing cavities. If you snack more on sticky foods like dried fruits or candies, you’re increasing your risk of developing cavities since such foods adhere to your teeth for longer periods as compared to non-sticky foods.

Acidic foods are also damaging to your oral health. Consumption of carbonated drinks and excessive intake of citric acids is found to be associated with tooth decay. A better approach would be to replace these drinks with nutritional beverages with water being the best among all.

Apart from avoiding unhealthy foods, it is also very important to add healthier alternatives to your diet that can lead to an increase in the development of tooth decay as well as dental cavities. A diet rich in calcium along with phosphate can play an important role in protecting against tooth decay. Foods requiring more chewing tend to stimulate saliva production, which can be useful in washing away any harmful acids in your mouth. Therefore, the addition of vegetables and fruits in your diet is very important.

 

 

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Understanding How Babies Develop Teeth

Understanding How Babies Develop TeethBaby teeth play an important role in helping a child take his first steps towards talking a well as chewing foods. What concerns most parents is actually the time frame for the growth of baby teeth, which could be normal or unusual. However, all parents need to understand that every child is different, regardless of the time frame that is generally considered normal for the development of baby teeth.

The whole process of the growth of your baby’s teeth may take up to three years. It all starts from the womb, when your baby undergoes the development of small tooth buds beneath the gums. The tooth buds later turn into baby teeth, which are also referred to as milk teeth. The roots of baby teeth will eventually dissolve, making them fall out and get replaced by permanent teeth.

In most cases, the first tooth starts emerging when the baby is 4-7 months of age with the central incisors coming up first. After around four to eight weeks, the four middle teeth or lateral incisors start appearing. This further leads to the emergence of lower lateral incisors following four weeks. And as the baby keeps growing, all teeth buds will start popping up until the set of teeth is completed by the age of 3 years. The baby teeth will start falling out naturally once the child has turned 6 years old until the last baby tooth falls out at the age of 12 or 13.

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Sensitive Toothpaste For Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive Toothpaste For Sensitive TeethPeople usually experience sensitive teeth after undergoing a dental treatment. If you’ve sensitive teeth, then eating, drinking, brushing and flossing can result in sharp pain in the teeth.

People with sensitive teeth should use sensitive toothpaste that is specially designed to address this painful condition. A sensitive toothpaste contains ingredients (typically stannous fluoride or potassium nitrate) to prevent tooth sensitivity, making brushing less painful for you.

Make sure to visit a specially trained dental professional at Brighton Implant Clinic to prevent tooth sensitivity from recurring. Your dentist will help you rule out the cause of sensitive teeth and recommend the right toothpaste for your condition. If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, consult a dentist as tooth grinding can fracture the teeth, causing the teeth to become sensitive.

Moreover, you should limit acidic foods and beverages, such as citric fruits, carbonated drinks, yogurt and wine. When you consume acidic beverages, make sure to use a straw. After drinking or eating an acidic substance, balance your mouth’s acid levels by drinking water or milk.

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Chronic Bad Breath-What You Can Do

Chronic Bad Breath-What You Can DoBad breath is embarrassing and is often considered difficult to get rid of. Bad breath or halitosis occurs due to bacteria in your mouth. People experiencing chronic bad breath are required to consult an experienced dentist at a dental implant clinic UK to get proper treatment of their chronic bad breath. Here are some ways that you should follow to get rid of chronic bad breath:

  1. Watch what you eat, because there are certain foods that can lead to bad breath. Stop eating the foods that are causing bad breath and notice if your condition gets better.
  2. Practice proper dental hygiene if you aren’t already doing so. A good dental hygiene includes brushing your teeth after every meal, and before sleeping at night. Brushing should be followed by flossing the teeth and rinsing the mouth with a mouthwash. Make sure to consult your dentist about your daily oral healthcare routine if you wear dentures.
  3. Avoid tobacco, coffee and alcohol. Cigarettes, cigars, snuff and chewing tobacco not only lead to bad breath but can also cause gum irritation as well as periodontal disease.
  4. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking 8-9 glasses of water every day. Chew sugar-free gum to keep the mouth moist and free from bacteria and food particles.
  5. Visit a highly experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic to rule out gum infection or other oral health conditions that might be leading to bad breath.

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Alcoholism and Dental Care

How alcohol effects your oral health

Alcoholism and Dental Care Alcoholism and Dental CareIf you’re an alcoholic or know someone who has an alcohol addiction, then what you’re about to read is very important. Telling your dentist about this addiction is extremely important for ensuring safe treatment as well as determining the right medication.

Did you know that signs of alcohol addiction can start appearing in the mouth in the form of tooth decay or tooth loss? Alcohol addicts may even develop a painful tongue or burning and reddening of the tongue from deficiencies of nutrition. Other problems or health hazards include ulcerations in the mouth corners or gingivitis and gum inflammation. Alcohol addiction leads to a decrease in the flow of saliva, interfering with your body’s potential of protecting against foreign bodies, which can eventually result in oral ulcerations.

The damage caused by alcoholism can be mouth injuries that are sustained in falls or severe gum bleeding. If you don’t inform your dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic about your drinking habits, you may put yourself in more trouble by increasing your teeth’s chances of bleeding heavily since drinking affects blood clotting. You’ll be running the risk of having a fractured jaw or breaking the teeth if your balance is lost and you fall. If any problems are detected, your dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic will advise you about the do’s and don’ts of your oral care.

Even if you’ve decided to quit drinking, you should never forget to ask your dentist for a comprehensive medical assessment while developing a long-term treatment approach. You may need to go through some dental procedures like scaling of gums or use of medication for cavity-prevention as part of your treatment.

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Dysphagia – All You Need To Know

What is Dysphagia?

Dysphagia-All You Need To KnowDysphagia is a condition characterized by difficulty in swallowing and it usually occurs due to neurological conditions such as depression, dementia and stroke. People with dysphagia have a greater likelihood of developing pneumonia, therefore additional modifications as well as support is needed during dental care routines.

Symptoms of Dysphagia

Symptoms of Dysphagia include:

  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Pain while swallowing
  • Feeling that food has gotten stuck in the chest or throat, or behind the breastbone
  • Hoarseness
  • Drooling
  • Regurgitation (food backing up)
  • Stomach acid or food backing up into the throat
  • Frequent heartburn
  • Gagging or coughing when swallowing
  • Unexpected weight loss

How to take care of your teeth and mouth if you have dysphagia?

Brushing and flossing your teeth properly would be the basic steps towards keeping your teeth clean and maintaining a good oral hygiene. But one of the most important things to consult a specially trained dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic.

If you wear dentures, they should be cleaned every day as dysphagia patients can easily inhale bacteria left on the denture.

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Benefits of A Healthy Mouth

Healthy Smile

Benefits of A Healthy Mouth

Taking proper care of your gums and teeth not only helps you maintain a bright, Hollywood smile but it also helps prevent various medical conditions. A healthy mouth is connected with a healthy body. Here are some benefits of having a healthy mouth:

Boosts Confidence

Stained teeth and gum infections are usually linked with bad breath as well as an unsightly mouth, which can affect your self-image, self-esteem and confidence. A healthy mouth, free of cavities and gum disease not only gives you the perfect smile but also helps you achieve your goals with confidence.

Lowers Risk of Developing Heart Disease

Gum disease, if left untreated, can result in serious oral conditions that are linked with cardiovascular problems like heart disease, strokes and blockage of blood vessels.
According to a dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic, maintaining a healthy mouth can prevent you from serious health conditions.

Preserves Memory

Research has found that patients of gingivitis (gum disease) perform worse on cognitive skill tests and other tests of memory compared to people with healthier teeth and gums.

Reduces Risks of Inflammation Infection in the Body

Poor dental health has been connected to greater likelihood of developing infection in other body parts. According to research, there is some connection between rheumatoid arthritis and gum disease. Visiting your dentist regularly and eating a healthy diet can reduce your chances of developing gum disease.

Keeps Blood Sugar Stable

Diabetes patients usually experience gum infections. According to some experts, diabetes patients have a higher risk for developing severe gum disease than people without diabetes. Maintaining a good oral hygiene can lower your risk of gum infections by keeping your blood sugar levels in check.

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Teeth Whitening Strips

Teeth Whitening Strips

Teeth Whitening StripsTeeth whitening strips are the modern day invention that produce miraculous results for people using them. These strips provide a superior and less messy whitening system for your teeth. Teeth whitening strips are flexible, thin, clear pieces of polyethylene or plastics and have one side covered with a thin film of hydrogen peroxide, which is a bleaching agent.

Whitening strips are easy to use and are put on the teeth then gently pressed into place. Usually, these strips require thirty minutes and are then taken out and discarded. The duration of the treatment depends on the condition of teeth as well as the product you are using. If the course requires 2 weeks, the strips are coated with 6% of bleaching agent such as hydrogen peroxide, however, in case of a 10 day whitening course, 10% of bleaching agent is used.

While whitening strips are a good DIY method for getting that perfect smile, the results are not as quick as you would obtain at Brighton Implant Clinic. There are some treatments given by the dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic that can provide miraculous results in just a single visit. Whatever method you use, don’t forget to consult with a highly experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic to prevent serious oral health conditions.

 


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Neutropenia Increases Your Likelihood Of Developing Oral Infections

Neutropenia Increases Your Likelihood Of Developing Oral Infections

Patients of neutropenia don’t have a normal level of white blood cells known as neutrophils. Neutrophils are cells that fight off bacterial infections. The causes of neutropenia include:

  • Congenital disorders
  • Cancer or other conditions damaging bone marrow
  • Autoimmune diseases that destroy bone marrow cells or neutrophils
  • Viral infections that damage bone marrow function
  • Medicines that damage bone marrow or destroy neutrophhils
  • Overwhelming diseases that are responsible for lower levels of neutrophils

If you suffer from neutropenia, you’re more susceptible to experience infections. Patients of neutropenia don’t notice any signs of infection because white blood cells usually cause the swelling and redness that are the symptoms of infection. You might not experience swelling or redness if there aren’t normal levels of neutrophils. According to an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic, oral ulcers, yeast infections and periodontal (gum) disease can get even worse if you suffer from neutropenia.

Sometimes, patients of neutropenia are prescribed antibiotics before they undergo major oral treatment. Normally, there are 3,000 and 6,000 neutrophils in the body. If the neutrophil count in your body is less than 1,000 cells, you’ll require antibiotics. If you are a patient of neutropenia or are taking medication that can lead to neutropenia, provide your blood test results to your dentist each time you visit the dental clinic.

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Night time Oral Hygiene

Nighttime Oral HygieneFollowing oral health care habits throughout the day is not enough to keep your teeth and gums healthy. You should keep in mind that maintaining oral health at night is also very important to keep your smile bright. According to an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic UK, night time oral hygiene prevents bacteria from attacking your teeth at night.

In order to maintain good night time hygiene, you should follow these three steps:

  • Brushing
  • Flossing
  • Mouthwash Rinse

Brushing Your Teeth

Brushing the teeth helps prevent plaque buildup as well as tooth decay. Dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that has fluoride in it to protect your teeth from bacteria. According to a professional dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic UK, the right method of brushing your teeth is to brush back and forth in tooth-wide (short) strokes. Use the tongue scraper on the back of your toothbrush to clean your tongue. You can brush your teeth before going to bed or right after having your dinner, whichever suits you best.

Flossing Your Teeth

Using a floss to clean between your teeth helps remove plaque and prevent the teeth from serious gum infections. You should floss at least once in a day to keep your pearly whites clean and shiny. Dentists recommend flossing your teeth after brushing as it will be easier to get rid of plaque while it is soft. However, if not removed, the plaque will harden, resulting in tartar formation, which can only be removed by a highly experienced dentist at a dental clinic such as Brighton Implant Clinic.

Rinsing With Mouthwash

The last step in night time oral care is rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash. This will keep plaque and cavity at bay and help you get a fresh breath.

 

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What is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

What is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?Wisdom tooth extraction is characterized by a surgical procedure where one wisdom tooth or more than one wisdom teeth are removed. The four permanent teeth at your mouth’s top and bottom back corners are known as wisdom teeth.

Normally, the extraction of a wisdom tooth is done when there isn’t enough room for the tooth to grow. This is known as an impacted wisdom tooth, which can cause infection and pain as well as other oral problems. A wisdom tooth extraction is usually performed by a specially trained dental professional. According to an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic, a wisdom tooth extraction should be performed as a prevention against future problems even if impacted teeth are not leading to problems.

When does a dentist perform wisdom tooth extraction?

Extraction of a wisdom tooth is performed if impacted teeth cause problems such as:

  • Pain
  • Damage to the adjacent tooth
  • Wisdom tooth infection
  • Development of cyst around the tooth
  • Complications with orthodontic procedures
  • Damage to the surrounding bone

Are there any risks associated with wisdom tooth extraction?

Usually, wisdom tooth extractions do not cause long-term complications. Here are some problems that may occur:

  • Socket infection from trapped food particles or bacteria
  • Dry socket
  • Damage to the nerves, leading to altered sensation in the tongue, lower lip or chin
  • Weakening of lower jawbone

 

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How Does Flossing Help With Bad Breath?

How Does Flossing Help With Bad Breath?

How Does Flossing Help With Bad Breath?

There are so many reasons to floss your teeth that it just seems impossible to ignore the importance of flossing on a regular basis. So, add another reason to your list of the benefits of regular flossing. Apart from ensuring the effective removal of food particles as well as bacteria in your mouth, flossing plays an important role in preventing or banishing bad breath. Not only is bad breath an embarrassing issue for people experiencing it, it can also invite severe health hazards. Therefore, it is very important that you do whatever it takes to prevent bad breath.

Did you know that the less saliva you have in your mouth, the more awful your breath starts smelling? If you don’t have enough saliva, plaque starts building up that causes your mouth to have an unpleasant smell. There are a number of things that could be promoting bad breath in your mouth by reducing the amount of saliva present in there. It could be because of consuming alcohol. Some people are more likely to develop bad breath in the early morning hours. Sometimes, things like dehydration can cause bad breath.

Recent research has revealed that a lack of flossing along with poor oral hygiene practices has a strong connection with bad breath. People who don’t floss on a regular basis, smoke and don’t follow proper tooth brushing guidelines are more likely to develop bad breath. If you’re experiencing this oral condition, the first thing is to consult your dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic and start flossing from this very moment.

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Oral Health and Ageing

Oral Health and AgingMany people don’t seem to understand that oral health in ageing years isn’t just about maintaining good teeth. In fact, ageing brings about a number of changes to the oral cavity just as it affects the other parts and systems within our body. One of the most significant changes that occur in the body as we age is the loss of immunity, which negatively affects the body’s capability of fighting infections as well as diseases. The same can be said about oral cavity. Ageing leads to a progressive shift in bacterial habitation within your mouth from good to bad. The bad bacteria or fungus are actively involved in the infections of the gum, tooth decay as well as other oral health problems.

Dental health and ageing issues troubling people typically involve tooth caries, oral yeast infection or thrush, periodontal disease, tongue’s allergic manifestation as well as disturbances in the mucosal lining within the affected person’s mouth. They usually result from infections, problems in blood circulation, calcium and vitamin deficiencies, along with poor health issues.

By having regular check-ups at Brighton Implant Clinic, engaging in proper tooth brushing practices, regular flossing, regular denture cleaning and following your dentist’s advice, you can avoid major oral health conditions.

In addition to observing good oral practices, it is also important to take care of your diet as an older adult. Making sure that sugar and fats are consumed in moderate amounts, while increasing the intake of foods rich in calcium, Vitamin B and D along with other essential minerals will be helpful in fighting severe oral and ageing problems.

 

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Cavities-Are They Contagious?

Cavities-Are They Contagious?Conditions like chickenpox and colds are contagious, but you’ll be surprised to know that even cavities can be contagious.

Eating a lot of sugar-laden candies isn’t the only cause of cavities. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria feed on the food particles in your mouth and produce acid. The mix of food particles, saliva, acid, and bacteria clings to the teeth forming a filmy substance known as plaque. Plaque, if left untreated, can result in teeth enamel erosion, leading to cavity formation.

Regardless of what you eat, tooth cavities will not develop without the bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria are contagious and can spread via shared utensils and food, kissing, sneezing and more.

Here are some tips that can help prevent your family against cavities:

  1. Visit the dentist. According to an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic, scheduling regular dental checkups is very important to prevent cavities as well as other oral health conditions.
  2. Rinse your mouth with a mouthwash. If you have developed a cavity, a filling will be required. However, for early stage tooth decay, a dental professional can ask you to rinse your mouth with a mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine, which fights off germs and prevents decay from forming into cavities.
  3. Don’t overshare. Kids have greater chances of catching cavities. Therefore, avoid sharing utensils with your kids, teach your kids to cover their mouths while sneezing and kiss your kids on their cheeks instead of lips.
  4. Chew sugarless gum. Chew a gum that has xylitol in it for a minimum of 5 minutes, three times a day. Xylitol increases the production of saliva, which helps combat bacteria.
  5. Drink tap water. Tap water contains fluoride, which is good for your teeth. So try to switch from bottled water to tap water to prevent your teeth from cavity formation.

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What Do You Know About Bonding?

What Do You Know About Bonding?Bonding is basically a dental procedure that involves using a tooth-colored resin or plastic for repairing the teeth. The procedure can be applied on teeth that have decay, are chipped or broken and/or experience discoloration. This particular dental procedure is referred to as bonding because the material starts bonding to the tooth. Compared to veneers, bonding is typically done in one visit.

In some cases, your dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic may recommend the use of veneers that can help in repairing teeth. Veneers are actually prepared in a lab and need a customized mould for achieving an appropriate fit.

Many patients prefer bonding because it’s considered a cost-effective and simple cosmetic dental treatment. The resin that is used in the procedure can be polished and shaped for matching the other teeth. Usually, bonding is employed for giving a chipped or discolored tooth a better look. It can further be used for closing spaces between teeth, making the teeth appear longer or changing the color or shape of the teeth.

There are cases when dentists may recommend bonding as a means of protecting certain portion of the root of tooth that has been exposed while gums were receding. Once a patient has got the bonding done, he/she should consult the dentist if sharp edges are noticed on the teeth or if chewing or biting down feels strange. According to the dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic, the success of any dental procedure, including bonding depends on whether the patient is in safe hands or not. So, you have to make sure that your dentist is as reliable, professional and qualified as dentists here at Brighton Implant Clinic.

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Smoking and Your Oral Health

The effects of smoking on your oral health

Smoking and Oral HealthBesides the connection between tobacco and stroke, heart disease, cancer (particularly throat and lung cancers) and emphysema, smoking can cause the following dental health problems:

  • Tooth discoloration
  • Bad breath
  • Inflammation of the mouth gland openings on the mouth’s roof
  • Delayed healing process after periodontal treatment, tooth extraction, or oral surgery
  • Increased plaque buildup and tartar formation on the teeth
  • Lower rate of success of dental implant procedure
  • Higher chances of developing cancer
  • Increased bone loss within the jaw
  • Greater risk for developing gum disease
  • Increased chances of developing leukoplakia

Smoking and Gum Disease

Smoking affects the attachment of soft tissue and bone to the teeth, leading to gum disease. Smoking affects the normal functioning of gum tissue cells, making smokers vulnerable to infections like periodontal disease. Moreover, smoking can impair blood flow to your gums, which might affect wound healing.

According to a specially trained dental professional at Brighton Implant Clinic, pipe and cigar smokers as well as cigarette smokers experience serious oral health problems, such as alveolar bone loss and tooth loss. In addition to these risks, cigar and pipe smokers are at a higher risk for developing pharyngeal (throat) and oral cancers.

According to a research, tobacco might restrict the flow of blood to the gum tissue, limiting the nutrients essential to the bone as well as periodontal support of the teeth. Smokers experience certain events in their mouth that eventually result in tooth loss. At first, smoking starts with the formation of plaque on the teeth, which causes tartar build-up, which leads to gingivitis. Gingivitis, if left untreated, develops into periodontal disease, which results in tooth loss.

 

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What Do You Know About Tooth Decay?

What Do You Know About Tooth Decay?Did you know that tooth decay comes in different forms and types?

Tooth Decay in Young Children

Young children usually experience a special kind of decay that has been categorized as early childhood caries or baby bottle tooth decay by dental experts. This type of decay is extremely damaging to the enamel and is commonly found in children who are habitual of sleeping with a bottle of juice or milk. As the bottle results in constant exposure to carbohydrates, the growth of bacteria in the teeth increases throughout the night while producing acid that decays or destroys the teeth. According to an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic, tooth decay in young children becomes more severe if the teeth aren’t brushed or cleaned properly.

Tooth Decay in Older Adults

In the case of older adults, the exposed roots of teeth tend to cause the development of cavities, which is referred to as root caries. Older adults have increased chances of developing receding gums that mostly result from years of periodontal disease or hard brushing.

Older adults have more chances of developing xerostomia as well, a condition that is more commonly known as dry mouth. As the saliva decreases, the teeth aren’t protected that much, which consequently increases the chances of decay. In some cases, adults develop dry mouth because of a certain medicine that they are taking. So, it’s best to discuss with your dentist about any medications that you might be taking.

At times, decay is formed beneath fillings or tooth repairs like crowns. Bacteria and bits of food may slip between filling and tooth. This may also occur if the filling starts cracking or pulling away from tooth, while leaving a gap.

 

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What is Black, Hairy Tongue?

What is Black, Hairy Tongue?Black, hairy tongue is characterized by a painless, benign (harmless) oral condition wherein the tongue looks furry and dark in color. Black tongue occurs due to bacteria overgrowth in the mouth.

Symptoms of Black, Hairy Tongue:

  • Brown, black or yellow discoloration of your tongue
  • A furry or hairy appearance of your tongue
  • Halitosis (bad breath)
  • Metallic taste or altered taste in your mouth
  • Gagging feeling in some patients

Causes of Black, Hairy Tongue

Usually, black, hairy tongue occurs when papillae (projections on your tongue) elongate and do not shed like normal, making the tongue appear hairy. Bacteria, debris, or certain other organisms cause the tongue to appear yellow, black or brown in color. Some of the potential causes of black, hairy tongue include:

  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Changes in normal yeast or bacteria content of your mouth due to the use of antibiotics
  • Breathing through the mouth
  • Rinsing your mouth with mouthwashes that contain astringent agents like menthol or witch hazel or oxidizing agents like peroxide
  • Medications that contain bismuth
  • Heavy use of tobacco

When to consult a dentist

Make an appointment with a specially trained dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic if:

  • You are worried about how your tongue looks like
  • The condition continues for over 10 days

 

 

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What Are Fissure Sealants?

What Are Dental Sealants?Fissure sealants are protective coatings for your teeth. Sealants are applied on the chewing surfaces of your molars and premolars. They are applied on the back teeth because these areas are more likely to experience the development of cavities.

Basically, your molars and premolars have crevices and grooves that are referred to as fissures and pits by dentists. Bits from your food may accumulate in crevices, as some cervices are so deep that the toothbrush’s bristles can’t get into them.

Crevices and grooves offer the ideal atmosphere for bacteria to increase and cause cavities but the application of sealants prevents the harmful development of bacteria by covering crevices and grooves in order to keep the food from getting into them.

So, how does your dentist apply sealants?

The application of sealants is quite a quick and painless procedure. It doesn’t involve any kind of removal or drilling in your tooth structure. Once the tooth has been cleaned, the dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic applies a special gel on the chewing surface for a couple of seconds. Later, your tooth is washed off as well as dried, which is followed by the step of painting the sealant on your tooth. The dentist may use light on your tooth for hardening the sealant. It doesn’t take longer than a minute for the sealant to form a defensive shield.

If you’re wondering whether these sealants are visible after application, then you should know that they are just seen up close. These can be white, clear or slightly tinted, and typically not visible when talking or smiling. You may feel the newly applied sealant with your tongue. However, most sealants are extremely thin as they are only meant for filling the pits and grooves of your molar teeth. Sealants mostly last for a period of five to ten years.

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Ptyalism and Pregnancy

Ptyalism and PregnancyPtyalism refers to excessive saliva. The condition can occur in any person, but it is very common among pregnant women, especially at the time of their first trimester. According to an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic, pregnant women experiencing morning sickness and extreme nausea are most likely to suffer from Ptyalism.

What causes ptyalism during pregnancy is still unknown, however, hormonal changes are considered to be one of the factors responsible for ptyalism in pregnant women. Moreover, women feeling nauseous swallow less, due to which saliva builds up in their mouths. And the nausea and heartburn can make the salivary glands to create more saliva to cover the esophagus, protecting it against mouth and throat irritation due to frequent vomiting.

There isn’t a single cure for this condition. However, here are some strategies that can help you cope with the condition:

  • Brush your teeth

Brushing your teeth is the first step of a regular dental hygiene. Brushing your teeth and rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash will help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Brushing will also help pregnant women prevent ptyalism and make swallowing easier.

  • Drink plenty of water

Take small sips of water to prevent ptyalism.

  • Eat a healthy diet

Eat a healthy, nutritious diet that includes fruits and leafy green vegetables. Avoid starchy foods like white breads to keep ptyalism at bay.

  • Chew some gum

Suck on sugar-free candy or chew sugar-free gum as this helps in swallowing the excess saliva in your mouth.

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Nutrition Tips For Your Teeth

Nutrition Tips For Your TeethHealthy Teeth

Eating a healthy diet is not only beneficial for your body, but it also helps you maintain a healthy mouth. Nutrition is extremely important for the cleanliness and health of your mouth, teeth and gums. Here are some tips that can help you maintain your oral health:

Limit Coffee, Alcohol and Soda

Cutting back on coffee, alcohol and soda will help you maintain stainless and strong teeth. These beverages have a high phosphorus content, which can reduce the calcium level in your body. This can lead to oral health problems such as gum disease and tooth decay.

Drink Tap Water

Tap water contains fluoride, which is good for your teeth. According to an experienced dentists it has been shown that drinking tap water can help you prevent tooth decay.

Take Calcium Supplements

Eat fruits and vegetables that are high in calcium and take your daily dose of calcium supplements. Calcium makes your bones and teeth strong. Including leafy green vegetables in your diet will prevent the tooth enamel from breaking down.

Take Vitamins C and D Supplements Daily

Vitamin C and D help in the absorption of minerals such as phosphorous and calcium in the mouth, which support the gum tissue and the bone and keeps it healthy. This helps you prevent gum disease and maintain a good oral hygiene.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking cigarettes, cigars or pipes can cause serious mouth conditions. According to a highly experienced dental professional at a dental implant clinic UK, smoking cigarettes interrupts the absorption of calcium in the body and can lead to serious conditions such as oral cancer.

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Average cost of tooth implants

Evaluating tooth implant costs

Dental implant placed into the jaw bone

Dental implant placed into the jaw bone

In life, we are faced with the fear of losing teeth at some point; this happens either in old age as we are bound to lose teeth through wear and tear, through accidents, diseases and in some instances due to poor lifestyles. However, with the advancements in dental technology, it is now possible to replace a missing tooth through dental implants. Dental implants are used to replace and restore missing or damaged teeth with something as close to natural teeth as possible.

Dental implants

Dental implant with abutment and porcelain crown

The cost of dental implants has come down in recent years

Generally dental implants are perceived to be expensive even when it is not the case because in most situations it usually depends with the procedure itself which varies from patient to patient. Anyone who is considering dental implant treatment to replace missing teeth or improve their smile should know the average cost of a tooth implant. Dental implant treatments cost from £995 -£3000 per tooth.

With so many options, finding the best price for dental implants is a short research away. Brighton Implant Clinic offer a best price promise. The clinic is specially designed to provide dental implant treatment. We are open 6 days per week and have helped many happy patients regain their smile and confidence.

There are many clinics offering dental implant treatments today. Using the internet will enable any prospective patient to understand what is involved during the dental implant treatment process. Putting in an hour or two into internet research may provide answers to commonly asked questions. It is important to note that ultimately the dentist who will carry out the dental implant treatment always knows best as he/she will be the one carrying out the assessment and making a diagnosis.

While doing your research to find out the average cost of tooth implant, it is important to put other factors into consideration, one of the factors is the number of teeth to be implanted; this is one of the most important factors that will determine the cost; just how many implants do you need. Usually the more implants a patient needs the more affordable the cost will be for each dental implant.

The average cost of tooth implants can vary between each patient. Sometimes the cost of treatment may be higher than normal due to bone augmentation being needed. Different types of crown are available to fit onto the implant and these can also affect the total cost of the dental implant treatment.

The average cost of dental implants is decreasing as more patients start to undergo this amazing dental treatment. At Brighton Implant Clinic we provide a free assessment and free panoramic radiograph for all new patients.

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Why Are Dental Sealants Used?

Why Are Dental Sealants Used?

Dental sealants are applied to fissures to prevent early decay

As most people may already know, dental sealants are protective coatings for your teeth that are applied on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. Now, these sealants are used to address a number of dental problems.

One of the most obvious uses of sealants is the prevention of cavities. They are also used to treat teeth that have early symptoms of decay. Most dentists prefer using sealants only in children but adults may also get sealants. Apart from being highly useful in preventing cavities in the teeth, sealants are a cost-effective option that a dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic may put forward.

In young children, sealants are typically applied to baby molars for protecting the back teeth from cavities. As time goes on, baby molars fall out while the new, permanent molars start coming in. The new molars can be sealed as well.

Your dentist may recommend immediate application of sealants to each permanent molar, which can be done when your tooth is just partly erupted into the mouth. But, the application is only done when it seems possible to keep the tooth dry and saliva-free during the process. In case, a young child has increased chances of developing cavities, the dentist may consider sealing the premolars too.

Sealants aren’t only used in children but they can also be used in adults with more chances of cavity development. It is up to the dentist to decide whether sealants are appropriate to be used in a particular case or not.

 

 

 

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Dry Mouth-What You Should Know

Dry MouthDry mouth

This is characterized by a condition wherein there is lack of enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. You can experience a dry mouth when you are upset, stressed or nervous. But if you mostly have a dry mouth, it can be very uncomfortable and may cause serious health conditions.

Dry mouth can lead to difficulties in chewing, tasting, speaking or swallowing. It can increase your risk for tooth decay as well as other mouth infections. Dry mouth can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition or can be caused as a result of some medical treatments or medications. If you experience persistent dry mouth, consult a professional dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic as soon as possible.

Symptoms

The symptoms of this condition include cracked lips, dry or sticky feeling in your mouth and a dry feeling in your throat. Dry mouth can also contribute to trouble swallowing, chewing, speaking or tasting. A common symptoms is also a burning sensation in the mouth.

People experience dry mouth when the mouth glands that produce saliva do not work properly. This results in lack of enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. The reasons these salivary glands may not work properly include radiation therapy, side effects of certain medications, chemotherapy, nerve damage and diseases such as HIV/AIDS, Sjögren’s Syndrome, Parkinson’s disease and diabetes.

What to do if you have a dry mouth?

If you have a dry mouth, consider doing the following:

  • Sip sugarless drinks or water often
  • Sip a sugarless drink or water during meals. This makes swallowing or chewing easier.
  • Avoid caffeinated beverages, such as tea, coffee, and certain sodas, which can dry out your mouth
  • Don’t use alcohol or tobacco as they cause dry mouth
  • Chew sugarless gum to stimulate the flow of saliva
  • Make use of a humidifier at night
  • Try to avoid salty or spicy foods as they may result in pain in a dry mouth

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Are Dental Implants Safe

Are Dental Implants Safe?

A dental implant is a metallic root of a tooth that is placed in the bone of your jaw by a dental implant dentist and allowed to heal in the bone for a period of time until the bone-implant union is strong enough to support a prosthetic tooth. Dental implant treatment has been around for about 25-30 years years now. This type of treatment is used to support one or more false teeth as it is placed into the jawbone just like a tooth root. The common question asked by many patients seeking this type of medication is ‘’Are dental implants safe?’’. This is a serious concern as no individual would want to undergo treatment that would either worsen his current condition or make him/her uncomfortable.

Implants are a safe, well-established, tried-and-tested treatment. It’s probably true to say that implants, much like natural teeth, will last for as long as you care for them. But all this depends on how well you look after your implants and whether you go for your regular maintenance appointments. The success of this treatment needs good gums, and if you smoke, there could be complications, which needs to be addressed before getting the treatment done.

So, are dental implants safe? Brighton Implant Clinic offers a free consultation before you undergo dental implant treatment. During the assessment your dental health is discussed and treatment options are proposed. Any possible complications or risks involved with treatment are also highlighted. Radiographs and CT scans are used to carefully plan the dental implant treatment.

Implant treatment doesn’t normally hurt; infact placing an implant is often easier than taking a tooth out and is usually done using a simple local anesthetic. You will not feel any pain at the time, but just like after an extraction, you may feel some discomfort during the week after the surgery.

In some cases the dentist might give you a sedative if you are very nervous or if the case is a complicated one. General anesthetics are rarely used for implants and are generally only used in hospital settings.

The question on how are dental implants safe cannot be answered by one person. The dentist will give you instructions on how to look after your implant. Your dental implant surgeon may give you some painkillers and antibiotics to take after dental implant surgery.

If you don’t look after your implants they could develop a coating similar to that found on natural teeth (plaque). If left untreated, this can lead to gum infection, bleeding, soreness and general discomfort. You could encounter all these problems with dental implants as well.

If your implants are well looked after, and if the bone they are fitted into is strong and healthy, you can expect them to last for many years. However, just as with other surgical implants (such as a hip replacement) there is no lifetime guarantee.

In some rare cases when the implant does not fuse with the bone, that is if the implant becomes loose during the healing period or just after the healing period, it is easily removed and your jaw will just heal in the normal way. Once your jaw has healed, another implant can be placed there. Dental implants have been shown to be successful in over 95% of cases.

For further information please feel free to visit our site Brighton implant Clinic

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Prosthodontic Treatment

What is Prosthodontic Treatment ?

Teeth affected by gum disease, the teeth were removed and replaced with fixed dental implants

Teeth affected by gum disease, the teeth were removed and replaced with fixed dental implants

Upper and lower dental implants in place

Upper and lower dental implants in place

Position of dental implants on working models

Position of dental implants on working models

Upper full bridge supported on 4 dental implants (Teeth-on-4)

Prosthodontic treatment which is carried out at Brighton Implant Clinic

Lower fixed bridge on dental implants

Lower fixed bridge on dental implants

lower removable dentures

lower removable dentures

Upper full denture

Upper full denture covering the palate, this decreases the ability to taste food properly

Prosthodontic or restorative dentistry focuses on replacing or repairing missing teeth by making use of a number of methods and restorations including dental bridges, full dentures, partial dentures, dental implants and crowns. Your dentist may need to refer you to a prosthodontist if your dental treatments are more complex than the normal dental problems which general dentists are trained to treat. A prosthodontist undergoes training at university after training as a dentist. At Brighton Implant Clinic we do not have a specialist prosthodontist however our dentists have undergone additional training in prosthodontics. Our principle dentist Dr Bruno Silva is completing the MClinDent (Masters in Clinical Dentistry Prosthodontics) at Kings College London. In addition to Dr Silva , Dr Uma Gopinath and Dr Teertha Shetty are also undergoing training in the MClinDent programme at Kings College London.

Restorative dentistry involves restoring the dentition for improved function and appearance. This is achieved by using dental implants, bridges, dentures and crowns for teeth which are damaged or missing. In some cases the treatment may only involve a single or a couple of teeth. More often complex restorative dentistry involves replacing multiple teeth for example a whole arch of the upper or lower jaw. In Prosthodontic treatment there are two main types of restorative treatments that an be grouped by how the restorations are placed.

Fixed Restorations

These include crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, porcelain veneers or fillings that are fixed to your teeth and cemented into place. Dental implants are placed into the jaw bone and are secured into the jaw. Fixed restorations have been shown to usually last from 5 to 15 years.

Removable Restorations

These devices include partial dentures or full dentures. Even though dentures are still widely used today, they are generally more difficult to cope with and may cause discomfort and irritation to those who wear them. Full dentures have been shown to cause a reduction in taste sensation, burning mouth, sores on the margins of the dentures. Many patients also complain of nausea or gagging reflex with upper dentures. There is generally a positive move towards fixed restorations which avoid all the problems associated with removable dentures.

In many cases a prosthodontist might help manage problems in the jaw due to TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder) such as jaw clenching or tooth grinding. Sometimes, these conditions require a mouth guard that the patient can wear at night. However, in some cases, a prosthodontic method such as a bridge, implant or crown might be required if misaligned or damaged teeth are leading to the TMJ problem.

For more information about prosthodontic treatment visit our site

Brighton implant Clinic

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What Is Tooth Discolouration?

What Is Tooth Discoloration?

Everybody wants 'nice white teeth'

For most people, nothing can be worse than having an unattractive smile, which is often caused by discoloured teeth. Tooth discolouration may occur because of stains on the surface of your teeth or because of certain tooth material changes.

Here are 3 categories of tooth discoloration that you should know about:

 

 

 

Cigarettes discolour teeth and are very bad for oral health

Cigarettes discolour teeth and are very bad for oral health

Extrinsic discoloration

This kind of discoloration results from the staining of the tooth’s outer layer. Foods like wine, cola or coffee mostly cause the teeth to stain. Smoking is yet another factor that contributes to the development of extrinsic stains. This form of tooth discolouration is treatable with dental whitening treatment such as Zoom professional tooth whitening. Simple easy to use ‘home whitening treatments’ made with customised trays are also an effective way of treating extrinsic tooth discolouration. It is important to note that if one does not stop smoking or drinking black coffee/tea the discolouration will almost certainly return.

 

Tetracycline tooth discolouration

Tetracycline tooth discolouration

Intrinsic discoloration

Treatment of Tetracycline tooth discolouration using porcelain veneers

Treatment of Tetracycline tooth discolouration using porcelain veneers

Tooth discolouration due to age not treatable by tooth whitening alone

Age related tooth discolouration is always treatable with whitening treatments. Porcelain veneers may be more suitable for treating such cases

Ask your dentist about tooth whitening treatments

Ask your dentist about tooth whitening treatments

This type of discoloration results from the staining or darkening of the tooth’s inner structure. The following factors contribute to the development of intrinsic discoloration:

    • If a person’s teeth experience excessive exposure to fluoride during the early years of childhood.
    • If a mother uses tetracycline antibiotics throughout the second half of pregnancy.
    • If tetracycline antibiotics are used at the age of 8 years or younger.
    • If the tooth is affected by trauma at a very young age. This could be because of a fall that may impact the development of permanent tooth.
    • If the permanent tooth is affected by trauma, causing tooth discoloration from internal bleeding.
    • If the person has dentinogenesis imperfecta. This is a dental condition which gives a grayish or purplish look to the teeth.

Age-related discoloration

This type of discoloration stems from several extrinsic and intrinsic factors. As we age, dentin starts to become yellow. The enamel covering the teeth keeps getting thinner as we age that causes the dentin to show through. According to dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic, certain foods and frequent smoking can also contribute to stains in the long term.

For further information please contact Brighton implant Clinic

 

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What Are Your Chances of Getting Oral Cancer?

What Are Your Chances of Getting Oral Cancer?There are a number of risk factors that determine your likelihood of developing oral cancer:

Gender

Did you know that men are two times more likely to develop oral cancer as compared to women? Moreover, men who have crossed their 50’s are at greater risk of developing the condition.

 

Tobacco smoking increases the chances of oral cancer

Tobacco smoking increases the chances of oral cancer

Smoking

When talking about the health hazards of smoking, oral cancer is certainly worth mentioning. Many people may not know this but pipe or cigarette smokers increase their chances of getting oral cancer by 6% as compared to nonsmokers.

Besides, people who use dip or chewing tobacco products have increased chances of getting cancers of the gums, cheek or lining of the lips. Oral cancer has been shown to be usually painless and goes by unnoticed by many patients suffering from such forms of cancer. Any doubts or concerns should be raised with your dentist

 

Prolonged high consumption of alcohol has been associated with oral cancer

High consumption of alcohol has been associated with oral cancer

Alcohol

This oral condition is also common among people who consume alcohol than those who don’t. However, it is worth noting that more than 25% of oral cancers are experienced by people who are non-smokers and even have occasional consumption of alcohol.

Snus is a common form of tobacco which is placed under the lip

Swedish Snus is a form of tobacco placed under the lip as a substitute for cigarette smoking.

Other Risk Factors

If you have a family history of cancer, then you have increased chances of getting oral cancer. Apart from family history, exposure to sun on a constant basis and that too during younger years may contribute to the development of oral cancer.

Regular visits to your dentist will ensure that oral cancer could be diagnosed early

Regular visits to your dentist will ensure that oral cancer could be diagnosed early

How Do Dentists Diagnose The Condition?

Dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic conduct an oral cancer screening test as part of your regular dental checkup. If the examination reveals any suspicious-looking tissues in your mouth, you may need to be referred to a specialist for further treatment. The most common areas where oral cancer is found is the floor of the mouth, the lateral borders of the tongue and the buccal mucosa.

For more information about oral cancer visit our website :

Brighton implant Clinic

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Gum Disease – What Are The Warning Signs?

Gum Disease

Gum Disease-What Are The Warning Signs?Gum disease or periodontal disease is among the major factors that result in tooth loss among adults. However, periodontal disease is preventable and can be treated by maintaining a good oral hygiene and medications, in case it is diagnosed early. Consult a specially trained dental professional at Brighton Implant Clinic if you notice any of the warning signs of periodontal disease. The warning signs of gum disease include:

  • Gums bleed easily
  • Puss in between the gums and teeth when they’re pressed
  • Red, swollen or tender gums
  • Bad taste in the mouth or persistent bad breath
  • Change in the way the teeth fit together or in your bite
  • Loose teeth or separating teeth
  • Change in the way your dentures or partials fit together

Gum disease occurs due to plaque build up around the gumlines of your teeth. Plaque contains bacteria that produce acids as well as other toxins which can destroy gum and bone tissue in the long term.

Proper brushing at least twice a day isn’t enough to get rid of plaque; therefore it is extremely important to floss the teeth on a daily basis. Plaque, if not removed, will result in the formation of a thick deposit known as tartar. Tartar buildup on your teeth as well as below your gumline can cause inflammation and chronic infection. Tartar can only be removed by getting the teeth professionally cleaned by your dentist.

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How to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity

Sensitive Teeth

How to Reduce Tooth SensitivityHere are some steps that you can take to prevent sensitive teeth:

1. Maintain proper dental hygiene

Properly brushing and flossing your teeth are the most important steps of maintaining your oral hygiene. Cleaning all parts of mouth thoroughly can help prevent sensitive teeth.

2. Use desensitizing toothpaste

There are a number of toothpaste brands available for sensitive teeth. Regular use of a toothpaste especially designed for sensitive teeth can help reduce tooth sensitivity. You should use a toothpaste that has fluoride in it rather than tartar control toothpaste.

3. Use a toothbrush that has soft bristles

Using a soft-bristled toothbrush causes less gum irritation as well as less toothbrush abrasion to the surface of the tooth.

4. Avoid foods that contain acids

Consuming highly acidic foods or drinks can dissolve tooth enamel, exposing the dentin. High acid foods or beverages can cause the teeth to become sensitive.

5. Use fluoridated products

Regular use of a mouth wash containing fluoride can decrease sensitivity. Always remember to consult an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic to know whether the product is safe for home use.

6. Avoid teeth grinding

Teeth clenching or grinding can also result in sensitive teeth. You can use a mouth guard if you grind teeth at night.

7. Schedule regular dental checkups

Get your teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist every six months. Schedule regular dental checkups to make sure your teeth are healthy.

 

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Mouthguard – What You Should Know

Mouth guards

Mouth guardsA mouth guard is an appliance composed of plastic and is worn in recreational and athletic activities to protect the teeth from injury or trauma. According to an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic, people participating in sport activities should always wear mouth-guards to protect their mouth from injuries.

A mouth guard can be worn to prevent serious injuries like jaw fractures, cerebral hemorrhages, neck injuries and incidents of unconsciousness. Sports that involve contact with hard surfaces or competing with other participants can lead to serious mouth injuries. Wearing a mouth guard while playing would be an effective measure to prevent trauma to the mouth. People participating in soccer, martial arts, basketball, football, soft ball, wrestling, lacrosse, in-line skating, rugby as well as recreational sports like cycling and skateboarding should always wear mouth guards.

It is very important for parents to make sure that their kids are wearing mouth guards while competing in sports that have the potential for dental injuries.

Types of Mouth guards

Stock mouth guard:

This type of mouth guard is the most affordable but provides the least protection as the fit adjustment of this mouth guard is limited. A stock mouth guard might interfere with breathing and speech because it requires your jaw to be closed in order to hold it in place.

Mouth-formed protectors:

Mouth-formed protectors are available as a “boil-and-bite” and shell-liner product. The lining material of the protector molds and fits the teeth when placed in the mouth.

Custom-made mouth protectors:

Custom-made mouth protectors are the best types of mouth guards. These protectors are specially made by a dentist and they not only provide the best protection and comfort but also fit your teeth well.

How to Take Care of a Mouth guard

Here are some of the tips for taking care of your mouth guard:

  • Keep your mouth guard clean by washing it with warm water and soap
  • Soak the mouth guard in mouthwash before storing it in a plastic storage box. Store it in a plastic box that is well-ventilated in order to let it dry
  • Never leave your mouth guard in direct sunlight as heat isn’t good for mouth guards
  • Don’t even think about wearing somebody Else’s mouth guard

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Poor Oral Hygiene Linked With Poor Diet

How Poor Diet effects your teeth

Poor Diet and Your Teeth

Foods that have high sugar content are among the major causes of gum inflammation and cavities. Many of us busy workaholics skip breakfast and pick up a cup of coffee and a doughnut when commuting to our office. But do you know that this quick breakfast habit can cause you to spend a fortune on dental procedures.

The amount of sugar found in doughnuts have been associated with an increased risk for cavities and gum inflammation Moreover, the cream and sugar in your favorite coffee can directly affect the amount of bacteria responsible for causing cavities. According to a specially trained dental professional at Brighton Implant Clinic, coffee contains tannins that can etch into the grooves and pits of your tooth enamel, creating a rough and stained surface.

The question is: How can we prevent our teeth from receiving this sugar bath every day? Well the best answer would be to cut back on sugary doughnuts and coffee and try to get a normal, healthy breakfast every morning. But, if it is very hard to cut back on sugary foods, if you try to eat the sugary food quickly it will limit the time for bacteria to attack the sugar. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water or brush your teeth after wards.

Make a habit of drinking sugarless black coffee to cut back on cream and sugar. One effective way of steer clear of cavities and other gum infections is to include fruits and vegetables in your breakfast.

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Brushing For Oral Health

Importance of brushing for your oral health

Understand the basics of brushing techniques and how brushing your teeth the right way can promote oral health. Simple dental habits like brushing and flossing the teeth can help you get the Hollywood smile. But the question is: Are you using these oral health techniques in your daily life?

Here are some of the brushing techniques that you can follow to protect your dental health:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day:

Don’t rush while brushing your teeth. Take your time to this most important step of maintaining a good oral hygiene.

  • Make use of the proper equipment:

Use toothpaste that contains fluoride and a soft toothbrush. If you are an arthritis patient or experience some other problem that makes it hard to brush thoroughly, consider using a battery-operated or electric toothbrush.

  • Practice good technique:

Brush your teeth with back and forth motions. Make sure to brush every surface of the teeth. Don’t forget to use a tongue scraper to get rid of bacteria on your tongue. Avoid harsh or vigorous scrubbing as it can irritate the gums.

  • Replace your toothbrush every three to four months:

Get a new toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. According to an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic, if the bristles have become frayed, it is time to buy a new one.

  • Keep your toothbrush clean:

After brushing your teeth, rinse the toothbrush with water. Store the toothbrush in an upright position. This will allow the toothbrush to dry. Never store the toothbrush on a closed container as it encourages the growth of bacteria.

 

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How To Make Sure That the Infant is getting Enough Fluoride

Taking Care of Your Infant’s Teeth

Unfortunately, not many parents understand that proper oral care should ideally initiate from the early years of their child’s life. Even before the first teeth start to emerge, there are factors that have an impact on the future appearance and health of a child’s teeth.

As baby teeth typically start emerging when they are 6 months old, standard oral health processes such as flossing and brushing are certainly not a required practice for infants. But, infants do have particular oral health requirements that all parents should be well aware of. These needs involve guarding your infant’s teeth against baby bottle decay while ensuring that the infant has enough fluoride.

Parent caring for child's teeth

 

So How Can You Prevent Baby Bottle Decay?

Baby bottle decay is actually a problem that results from recurrent exposure to liquids that contain sugars. Mil, baby formula, and fruit juices are among these liquids that are busy, pooling around the teeth for prolonged periods of time as your infant is asleep. As a result, there is a development of cavities in the upper and lower front teeth.

Therefore, it is your job to make sure that your baby doesn’t fall asleep with a bottle of milk or juice in his mouth. A better approach would be giving your child a water bottle at naptime. If you are a breast-feeding mother, avoid allowing the baby to nurse uninterruptedly. After each feed, make sure that the baby’s teeth and gums are wiped with a clean, damp gauze pad or washcloth.

How To Make Sure That the Infant is getting Enough Fluoride?

Fluoride has numerous benefits for your child’s oral health even before his teeth have begun to erupt. Fluoride plays an important role in strengthening the tooth enamel while the teeth are developing. In several municipal water supplies, the authorities add adequate amounts of fluoride to ensure proper tooth development. For finding out whether the water has enough fluoride, consider calling your local water district.

If you are using bottled water for cooking and drinking, make sure that you tell your dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic about it in order to get helpful advice on the issue.

 


 

 

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Oral Cancer – All You Should Know

Oral Cancer – All You Should Know

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer is characterized by a condition wherein cancer develops in any part of the mouth, back of the throat or lips.

Who is at a Risk of Developing Oral Cancer?

Factors that increase your chances of developing oral cancer include:

  • Drinking alcohol

Heavy use of alcohol increases the chances of developing oral cancer.

  • Use of tobacco products

Smoking cigarettes, cigars or pipes, or chewing tobacco or using snuff increases the risk for oral cancer.

  • Getting too much sun

Exposing yourself to too much sunlight can increase your chances of developing lip cancer.

  • Eating an unhealthy diet

An unhealthy diet is the root cause of almost all medical conditions, including certain types of cancers.

  • Age

If you are 40 years of age, you are at a higher risk of developing oral cancer.

  • Gender

Men are at a higher risk of developing oral cancer than women.

What are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?

The signs and symptoms of oral cancer include:

  • A white or red bump or patch in the mouth
  • A sore, irritation, lump, rough spot or thick patch anywhere in the throat, mouth, or on the lips
  • A feeling that something is stuck in the throat
  • Problem moving the jaw or tongue
  • Problems with chewing or swallowing
  • A painful or numb tongue
  • Numbness in other parts of the mouth
  • A swollen jaw
  • Pain in the ear without loss of hearing
  • Ill-fitting dentures
  • Color change of the mouth
  • A lip or mouth sore which bleeds easily or won’t heal

Although these symptoms of oral cancer may also point toward less serious health conditions, however, if you experience these symptoms for more than 2 weeks, consult a specially trained dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic for an evaluation.

Visit Your Dentist For Regular Dental Checkups

Regular dental checkups at Brighton Implant Clinic can help you stay satisfied with your dental health. At every check-up, the dentist will examine your mouth for symptoms of any precancerous spots or any other condition that can cause serious consequences.

 

 

 

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Maintaining Proper Dental Health

Maintaining Proper Dental Health

Maintaining proper oral hygiene helps prevent plaque build-up, which is the major cause of all the dental health conditions.  Due to poor dental hygiene, bacteria accumulates on the surface of your teeth. These bacteria demineralize the enamel of your tooth, causing it to decay. Moreover, plaque can infect your gums, leading to periodontitis and other forms of gum disease.

Many oral health conditions, such as trench mouth, oral thrush, bad breath as well as other dental problems occur due to poor oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene not only creates trouble for your dental health but also affects your overall health. But the good news is that you can easily prevent these problems by maintaining proper oral hygiene.

Prevention is better than cure. Proper dental hygiene will prevent most dental conditions, saving you from expensive dental procedures and toothaches. What’s even more interesting is the fact that you only need to dedicate a few minutes each day to care for your teeth.

Learning how to maintain proper oral hygiene is very important. Daily brushing as well as flossing your teeth is the first step towards maintaining a good dental hygiene. Parents should teach their kids the proper use of dental hygiene products.  You should also consult a specially trained dental professional at Brighton Implant Clinic to get professional advice and instructions on maintaining proper dental hygiene.

Signs of Proper Oral Hygiene

Proper dental hygiene shows that you have a healthy mouth that doesn’t have a bad odour. Sign of good dental hygiene include:

  • Clean teeth free of debris
  • Bad breath isn’t a permanent problem
  • Gum are healthy (pink) and don’t bleed or hurt when you floss or brush your teeth

 

 

 

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What Causes Cavities?

What Causes Cavities?

Cavities are among the most common dental health conditions; however cavities can be easily prevented if you brush and floss your teeth daily. People who don’t maintain proper dental hygiene are at a higher risk of developing tooth decay and many other health conditions, including heart disease and stroke. In order to prevent cavities, it is very important to understand what factors are responsible for increasing your chances of developing cavities.

Prevent cavities by regular brushing and flossing

Brushing and flossing will help prevent cavities

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some of the factors that can increase your risk of developing cavities include:

  • Avoiding brushing and Flossing:

Daily brushing and flossing your teeth helps to remove plaque from your teeth and prevent tooth decay. Maintaining good oral hygiene is the first step towards reducing your risk of cavity formation.

  • Certain foods and drinks:

Foods that stick to the teeth are the ones that promote tooth decay. Sugars, milk, raisins, honey, dry cereal, hard candy, bread and cooked starchy foods are among the main plaque promoters.

  • Drinking bottled water:

Due to concerns about the quality of tap water, a lot of people are now drinking bottled water, without knowing the fact that tap water contains fluoride, which helps protect tooth enamel from plaque formation. You can check if your bottled water has added fluoride in it. Note: Always make sure to consult with a dentist about the right amount of fluoride for children.

  • Frequent snacking:

According to a professional dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic, some weight loss diets advise eating several small meals every day instead of three big meals. But, it is very important to remember that frequent snacking will promote the formation of plaque, which will damage your teeth. Brushing the teeth after each meal will not only remove plaque, but it will also stop you from frequent snacking by making the mouth feel cleaner.

  • Receding gums:

In the case of receding gums, plaque can build up near the roots of your teeth. The roots of the teeth aren’t protected by enamel and have a greater risk of developing decay.

 

 

 

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What Is Periodontitis?

What Is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is characterized by a gum infection which destroys the soft tissue as well as the bone supporting your teeth. This dental condition can lead to tooth loss or even worse, a greater risk for developing heart attack or stroke or certain other serious medical conditions. Although, periodontitis is common but it can be easily prevented. Periodontitis usually occurs from a poor dental hygiene. Brushing and flossing your teeth every day and regular dental cleanings can reduce your risk of developing this condition.

Periodontitis typically begins with plaque, which is composed of bacteria. Plaque builds up on the teeth when sugars and starches in food interact with bacteria found in the mouth. Daily brushing and flossing can help remove plaque. If plaque stays on the teeth for more than 2-3 days, it can harden under the gum line into calculus (tartar). Due to the formation of tartar, plaque becomes very difficult to remove and promotes bacteria accumulation. You might require professional dental cleaning to get rid of tartar. Remember that the longer the tartar remains on the teeth, the more damage it can do to your overall health.

What are the symptoms of Periodontitis?

The symptoms of periodontitis include:

  • Purplish or bright red gums
  • Swollen gums
  • Tenderness in gums when touched
  • Development of new spaces between the teeth
  • Gums that recede from the teeth, making the teeth appear longer than normal
  • Bad breath
  • Puss between the gums and teeth
  • Bad taste in the mouth
  • Loose teeth

Periodontitis with gum recession

 

When to Consult a Dentist?

Normally, gums are pale pink and firm. If your gums are dusky red, puffy or bleed easily, or you experience some of the other symptoms of periodontitis, consult an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic as soon as possible.

 

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Gingivitis – How You Can Prevent It

Gingivitis – How You Can Prevent It

Gingivitis is characterized by a condition in which there is a mild form of gum disease which causes redness, irritation and inflammation (swelling) of the gums. Because this condition can be mild, you might not know that you are experiencing gingivitis. But it is very important to take it seriously and seek proper dental care to treat this condition. Gingivitis, if left untreated, can result in more serious gum infection (periodontitis), which might lead to tooth loss.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis

 

 

 

 

 

Poor dental hygiene is one of the major causes of gingivitis. Proper dental health habits, like brushing and flossing the teeth every day and regular professional dental check-ups can help keep gingivitis at bay.

Gingivitis is a very common condition. Factors that increase your chances of developing gingivitis include tobacco use, poor dental health habits, older age, dry mouth, poor nutrition, certain fungal and viral infections, diabetes, certain medications, decreased immunity, hormonal changes, ill-fitting dental restorations and substance abuse.

Normally, gums are pale pink and firm. If your gums are dusky red, puffy or bleed easily, you might have gingivitis. Symptoms of gingivitis include:

  • Puffy, soft gums
  • Swollen gums
  • Receding gums
  • Gums that easily bleed when you floss or brush
  • Occasionally, tender gums
  • Bad breath
  • A change in colour of the gums from pink to darkish red

 

When to Consult a Dentist
It is important that you visit a professional dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic on a regular basis for the evaluation and treatment of gingivitis, cavities as well as other oral health conditions. Schedule an appointment with a dentist immediately if you experience any symptoms of gingivitis.

 

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Are You Worried Because Of Bad Breath?

Are You Worried Because Of Bad Breath?

Oral hygiene is very important

Does bad breath affect you

Bad breath is embarrassing and might lead to anxiety. There is no wonder stores are full of gum, mouthwashes, mints and other mouth freshening products made to fight off this embarrassing condition. But a lot of these products provide a temporary solution to this problem.

Some foods, certain habits and health issues are among the major causes of bad breath. Bad breath can be improved by maintaining proper dental hygiene. If, however, self-care techniques fail to help to solve the problem, you might want to consult an experienced dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic.

Are You Worried Because Of Bad Breath ?

Tooth brushing is very important

Preventing Bad Breath

Here are some ways that can help you prevent bad breath:

  • Brush teeth after eating

Always brush your teeth after your meals. Make sure to brush twice a day, particularly after eating. You can use toothpaste that has antibacterial properties as it has been shown to keep bad breath at bay.

  • Floss once a day

Flossing your teeth properly removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth.

  • Clean your dentures properly

If you wear a partial or complete denture or a bridge, clean it properly once a day to prevent bad breath.

  • Plaque can accumulate between teeth and cause bad breath

    Daily flossing removes interdental plaque

    Brush your tongue

You can reduce the odours that originate from your tongue by using tongue scrapers. However, you can also use a toothbrush that has a built-in tongue cleaner on its back that can help you get rid of bad breath.

  • Drink enough water

Make sure to drink plenty of water, ideally 8 glasses a day to keep the mouth moist. Chewing mint gum or sucking on candy also helps stimulate saliva and wash away bacteria and food particles.

  • Tooth brushing is important to maintain plaque free teeth

    Use a new tooth brush

    Use a fairly new toothbrush

Use a new toothbrush after 3-4 months and always choose a soft-bristled toothbrush.

  • Adjust your diet

Decrease coffee or alcohol intake as well as avoid other beverages and food that cause bad breath. Eat fibrous foods to prevent bad mouth odour.

  • Use mouthwash to combat bad breath

    Mouthwash can help combat bad breath

    Get regular dental checkups

Visit a professional dentist at Brighton Implant Clinic twice a year to have your dentures or teeth examined and cleaned.

For further information please visit our site Brighton implant Clinic

 

 

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Why Choose Dental Implants

Why Choose Dental Implants

Dentures to replace upper four anterior teeth

Removable denture as an alternative to dental implants

Many people suffer from tooth loss caused by tooth decay, trauma and gum disease. Some patients unfortunately are born without some permanent teeth. Missing teeth can greatly affect ones lifestyle as it reduces your confidence to smile. Missing teeth can also make eating and speaking difficult. But as people age , some cases of tooth loss cannot be prevented. Dental implants can help with missing teeth, they have been shown to work very well in almost 95% of cases.

There are few available dental treatments designed to replace a missing tooth. Firstly a removable denture is commonly used however these are usually uncomfortable and move while eating or talking. Dentures commonly cause sores and ulcers if they are ill-fitting. For this reason removable dentures tend be unpopular with patients. There are several million people in the UK that have removable dentures today. Removable dentures are usually simple and inexpensive to make.

Fixed bridge on dental implants

Teeth-on-4 dental implant bridge

Dental bridges can also be used to replace missing teeth. Unlike dentures fixed bridges are attached to the adjacent teeth and provide a fixed tooth/teeth to function with. Dental bridges are aesthetic and were the preferred solution for replacing missing teeth before dental implants became so popular. Dental bridges do require sound teeth that are strong enough to support the replacement tooth. If there are no such teeth adjacent to the space then a bridge will not be possible. The disadvantage with bridge work is that it requires the preparation of the adjacent teeth, this causes long term damage to these teeth.

Today patients are looking for a solution which is comfortable to use, looks natural, feels natural and affordable. Dental implants at Brighton Implant Clinic is the answer. It is no secret that dental implants have in the past been costly procedures however at Brighton Implant Clinic our dental implant treatments start from just £995. This includes the cost of the implant, standard abutment and porcelain crown. Replacement of multiple teeth is also possible with implant supported bridges or dentures.

At Brighton Implant Clinic we have all the facilities and technology to provide your dental implant treatment under one roof. From on-site dental CT Scanner and dental laboratory our facilities have been designed with dental implant treatments in mind.

We provide a Best Price Promise that you will not find like for like dental implant treatment cheaper anywhere else in the UK

Fixed bridge on dental implants

Full arch fixed bridge on dental implants

Unlike removable dentures, dental implants are stable, durable, comfortable to use and feel like natural teeth. There is no need for denture adhesives everytime you eat. Denture wearers do not enjoy their food because denture movement and a decrease in taste sensation. If you are experiencing these problems, consider visiting the Brighton Implant Clinic for a FREE dental implant assessment.

For further information please visit : Brighton implant Clinic

 

 

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Why you should have dental insurance

Dental insurance has been shown to help with dental treatment costs

Dental insurance can help with dental treatment costs

Why You Should Have a Dental Insurance?

Keeping your teeth healthy is just as important as keeping other parts of your body healthy. When it comes to dental care, your dentist will help you to look after and maintain healthy teeth and gums. You need to visit the dentist at least twice a year to keep your teeth healthy. And when you visit your dentist, you need to pay an amount known as the dental fee. In the UK many patients are treated under the NHS services. Some patients opt to see a dentist privately.

You can choose to have dental insurance which isn’t only good for regular visit to the dental clinic. Many insurance packages include dental procedures such as tooth extraction, fillings, crowns or bridges. Therefore, having dental insurance is also good in preparation for certain dental procedures that you might need in the future.

Even if you strictly practice proper oral hygiene all the time, it is still possible that you will have dental problems that only a reputable dental clinic can fix. With your dental insurance, you don’t need to worry how to pay for your expenditures in keeping your teeth healthy.

Regular oral prophylaxis is also covered by dental insurance. Gum problems consulted with a dentist and hygienist is also covered by this insurance.

Having a dental insurance is making a preventive investment for your teeth. However, you should be careful in choosing your insurance provider. Read the insurance policy thoroughly and make sure that you agree to all the terms before signing the insurance. Try to find a dental insurance that covers almost all dental care procedures so that you will never have to think about your visits to the dental clinic.

For further information please visit Brighton implant Clinic

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Teeth-on-4 dental implants

Teeth-on-4

At a meeting in 2005 held by the The British Society for the Study of Prosthetic Dentistry it was estimated that 11 million people living in the UK wear dentures. These dentures include both partial and full dentures. Removable dentures provide a solution to replace missing teeth. Dentures are simple and inexpensive means to replace missing teeth.

Unfortunately dentures are generally uncomfortable and affect the ability to speak and taste food properly. For this reason many denture wearers struggle to cope with dentures and look for alternatives for removable uncomfortable teeth. Dentures are only retained by suction or gravity. Some dentures may have small clasps which are used to assist in retaining the denture in position. Removable dentures unlike dental implants are not connected to the jaw bone so feel ‘disconnected’ to the person wearing them. Dental implants are inserted into the jaw bone. The titanium dental implants provide a stimulus to the jaw bone and encourage the bone around implants to grow. Dentures do not encourage the jaw bone to grow so long term denture wearers will lose bone density and volume.

A Clinical Case of upper and lower partial dentures

This patient came to our clinic complaining of loose upper and lower removable dentures. The patient had worn dentures for 12 years and had recently developed an infection around the upper right canine tooth. The patient was experiencing a lot of pain and needed the tooth extracted. On visiting the dentist the patient asked about options for replacing teeth and was recommended to to visit the Brighton Implant Clinic for further treatment.

The patient attended the clinic for a thorough examination and was given the options for treatment. Two options for treatment were recommended.

  1. Upper and lower full dentures.
  2. Upper and lower full dentures retained by dental implants
  3. Upper and lower fixed bridges on dental implants.

Dental implant treatment

The patient opted for fixed bridges on dental implants as he didn’t want to have removable dentures any more. It was decided that the patient would have the upper arch carried out first then followed by the lower arch a month later. The patient was to have the Teeth-on-4 dental implant treatment.

Upper Arch

In the upper arch the remaining teeth were removed and 4 dental implants were placed. Directly following the dental implant surgery, impressions were taken of the 4 dental implants for a provisional bridge to be made. The provisional bridge was to consist of 10 teeth. The provisional bridge is recommended for 6 months while the implants heal. Once the upper surgery was completed the patient returned one month later for surgery of the lower arch. No bone grafting was required for upper or lower arches

Lower Arch

In the lower arch, again the remaining teeth were removed and 4 dental implants were placed. Immediately following surgery a provisional bridge was made consisting of 10 teeth.

2 months after the surgery was carried out the upper and lower bridges were removed and the implants inspected to see if they were healing well. The bridges were then replaced on the implants for 3 more months. At 6 months both bridges were removed and impressions taken for upper and lower definitive hybrid bridges. The definitive bridges consisted 12 teeth each.

All 8 implants integrated successfully and the patient was pleased with the appearance and function of the definitive upper and lower bridges.

For further information please visit Brighton implant Clinic

 

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Affordable dental implants

Dental implant treatment can help you replace missing teeth. Dental implants are made of titanium and are placed into the jaw bone during a small operation. The treatment can be carried out under local anaesthetic or sedation. The treatment itself usually takes about 6 months to complete and requires a minimum of 4 appointments. Dental implants are predictable and have been shown to be 95% successful after a 5 year period.

A 60 year old female patient presented at our clinic and requested treatment for missing teeth on the upper left side. After a thorough examination it was noted that the upper left premolars and molars were missing. During the assessment the various options were discussed with the patient. The alternative treatment options for this case would be a removable denture. A fixed bridge would not be suitable as an alternative as there were no posterior teeth to support a bridge.

Dental implant treatment was the treatment of choice. It was decided that only 3 missing teeth would be replaced namely the first and second premolar plus the first molar. On the day of surgery the patient requested that the treatment be carried out under local anaesthetic. Three dental implants were placed in the upper left side in the positions of the first, second premolar and first molar.

The stability of the implants were very good, and hence it was decided to attach healing abutments on the implants. The healing abutments would allow the gums(gingivae) to heal around the healing abutments and allow for a one stage procedure. The advantage of a one stage procedure is that a second surgical stage is not required.

4 months after the implants were placed the patient returned for the next stage of treatment. Radiographs were taken to ensure that the implants had osseointegrated and the implants and surrounding bone had healed.

Impressions were taken of the implants and sent to the dental implant laboratory. The patient had opted for cement retained crowns and hence these were requested from the dental laboratory.

The patient returned and the customized abutments were fitted onto the implants. The accuracy of fit and the position of the abutments were confirmed again with further radiographs. The definitive crowns were fitted on the implants and the patient was given instructions on how to look after the implants.

The total cost of this treatment was spread over a 6 month period. The total cost of treatment was :

  1. Free Assessment
  2. CT scan: £95
  3. Three dental implants 3 x £695= £2085.
  4. Three cement retained crowns 3 x £300=£900
Total cost = £3080

For further information please feel free to visit our website Brighton implant Clinic

 

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Bad teeth

decayed teeth affected by poor oral hygiene and high sugar intake

decayed teeth affected by poor oral hygiene and high sugar intake

multiple teeth were infected and needed extracting

multiple teeth were infected and needed extracting

broken teeth infected roots needing extracting

broken teeth infected roots needing extracting

Dental health is no doubt an important part of general health and wellbeing. Daily brushing and regular visits to your dentist will ensure that natural teeth as long as possible. Plaque builds up naturally on teeth and if left on tooth surfaces will cause dental decay in the long term. Daily brushing (twice per day) will reduce the amount of plaque building up and the incidence of dental decay. Plaque is made of up of food debris and bacteria. The bacteria (streptococcus mutans) is responsible for breaking down sugars in our diet and forming acid. This acid in turns causes natural teeth to become decayed.

Dental decay affects most of the population in one way or the other. This patient presented at the clinic and requested treatment. The patient was a 45 year old male, who was suffering with pain in multiple areas due to dental infection. The patient had not seen a dentist in 12 years, and had stopped brushing his teeth regularly more than 10 years before. During the examination impressions were taken of the patients mouth for further investigation. A full set of radiographs were taken in order to assist in diagnosing problem areas.

It was decided that the best treatment was to remove the remaining teeth as the existing teeth were extremely decayed. Multiple teeth were infected and needed immediate attention. Even though this patient could benefit from dental implant treatment it was felt that he was not an ideal candidate for dental implant. Dental implant treatment carried a very high success rate. Usually this is around 95% of cases. In other words it is very likely that dental implant treatment is successful even in cases like this. However as a dentist it is important that we consider if the patient is able to follow the instructions while undergoing dental implant treatment. Daily hygiene is very important during the dental implant treatment process. If this particular patient did not brush for over 10 years, then this habit of not brushing will be difficult to change. The treatment therefore should involve removing all infected and non-restorable teeth and alleviate pain.

Some cases are not ideal for dental implant treatment. Until the patient is able to demonstrate that they are able to maintain good oral hygiene it is better to delay dental implant treatment. A case like this may very well be more difficult than expected unless the patient changes their habits and starts to look after their teeth. If the implant treatment were to fail who’s responsibility would it ultimately fall. ?

For further information please visit our main site Brighton implant Clinic

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treatment of a single missing premolar tooth

Dental implant treatment today is considered as an extremely effective and predictable means of replacing missing teeth. The most common causes for tooth loss in adulthood are :

  1. dental decay which causes the tooth to break due to becoming undermined. When a tooth is weakened by decay this can cause future problems with the tooth breaking during normal chewing function. If it is impossible to restore the tooth with general dentistry techniques then an implant may be the best solution
  2. gum disease (periodontal disease) this causes the bone supporting the teeth to recede and deteriorate. This in turn causes the teeth affected by gum disease to become loose as there is insufficient bone support to hold the tooth securely
  3. trauma can cause teeth to become damaged, accidents can cause teeth to come out completely
  4. infection is a common cause of tooth loss. If a tooth has become infected and root canal treatment is not successful then the only option left to treat the infection is to remove the tooth. A 45 year old female patient came to see us with a failed root canal treatment. The failed root canal treatment had caused her to lose the upper left premolar tooth. Her own dentist had removed the tooth 8 months prior to being referred to the clinic. On examination it was noted that the there was sufficient bone available for an implant to be placed without the need for bone grafting After the initial consultation the options for treatment were discussed with the patient. The options for the treatment were;

 

  1. a removable denture. This is the simplest of all options, however it is a removable solution and for this reason it is not very popular.
    Click here for more details about Removable Denture
  2. a fixed bridge. This is a fixed option solution to replace a missing tooth. A bridge is generally more comfortable than a denture however it does damage the adjacent teeth.
    Click here for more details about Fixed Bridge
  3. dental implant. This provides a fixed tooth, without damaging the adjacent teeth.

The patient chose to have a dental implant. The treatment was carried out under local anaesthetic. Once the area was anaesthetised a small opening was made on the gum tissue. The bone was prepared to accept the implant. The entire procedure takes no longer than 15-20 minutes.After the implant was placed we checked to see the stability of the implant. Because the stability was good we opted to place a healing abutment on the implant. The healing abutment allows the tissues to heal around the abutment creating a tissue collar for the future implant crown.

The definitive screw retained implant crown is then secured to the dental implant and the access hole is sealed with a tooth coloured dental cement. The advantage of a screw retained crown over a cement retained crown is that it allows the dentist to remove the crown if any problems should arise in future. In addition to this screw retained crowns eliminate the need for dental cements required under the gum tissues.

 

For further information please visit our website Brighton implant Clinic

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Which crowns are best ?

broken tooth coloured restorations

broken tooth coloured restorations

In dentistry a crown is used to rebuild or strengthen a broken or compromised tooth. Crowns can also be used in order to improve the shape and appearance of a natural tooth. As the word describes a crown is fitted like a crown onto a tooth which is prepared by a dentist. The tooth is prepared for a crown by being shaped accurately for a dental crown to be eventually fitted over. Once the preparation is complete the dentist will take an impression to record the shape and position of the tooth for the definitive crown to be made. This impression is then sent to the dental laboratory for the crown to be made.

Crowns can be made of several different types of materials. Crowns generally can be tooth coloured or metallic. Tooth coloured crowns are made from different types of porcelains, ceramics, resins composites and zirconia ( to name a few ) Metal crowns can be made from several different types of metal alloys.

broken tooth coloured restorations

broken tooth coloured restorations

Here we have an example of which crowns are best. It is more common today for patients to prefer tooth coloured restorations. Cosmetic dentistry revolves around the improvement of ones smile and appearance of teeth. Teeth are supposed to look and function like natural healthy teeth. However this is not always possible.

This gentleman presented at our clinic complaining of recent cosmetic dentistry having been carried out on this molar teeth. The teeth had been recently crowned with ceramic restorations however soon after fitting them they fractured. The patients was disappointed with the dentist who carried out the work so decided to seek a second opinion. The gentleman really wanted to have white natural looking crowns on the molar teeth. On close examination we noted that the molar teeth had broken crowns or ‘onlays’ on them. The patients requested a long term solution to the problem

old ceramic crowns removed

old ceramic crowns removed

The molar teeth are designed to grind food, hence they withstand large biting forces hence the material and the design of the restoration needs to be carefully planned. In this case the material which was used could not withstand the forces of biting during function hence they broke soon after fitting.

Ceramic is a great material for making crowns, however sufficient thickness needs to exist in order for the material to withstand the usual biting forces. In this instance the material was not thick enough and this was the main cause of the crowns fracturing. In order to make the material thicker the dentist would need to allow for more material ie the teeth woudl need to be reduced more than they were.

You are right , this additional preparation would mean more ‘trimming’ of the natural teeth. So lets just summarise

If the patient really wanted to have white crowns then the dentist would need to reduce the natural teeth even further and this could cause future problems of root canals being needed, infections, senstivitiy or even extraction. The previous dentist didnt want to over trim the teeth hence the crowns were thin and that is why they broke.

We explained this to the patient carefully and advised that perhaps changing to a different material like precious gold alloy may be the best solution. Gold crowns are much stronger than porcelain crowns. In addition to the strength the gold crowns dont need to be as thick to withstand large biting forces. It was suggested to the patient that no additional trimming of the natural teeth would be required if the patient chose gold as an alternative for the crown material. Initially the patient was keen on the idea of having white crowns on the molar teeth however after the explanation of what complications could arise when the teeth are trimmed, he decided to opt for gold crowns instead.

The old crown material was removed carefully and impressions were taken and sent to the laboratory. A few days later the new crowns were fitted. The results were fantastic and the patient was very happy indeed. No more broken teeth and the crowns have been functioning now for 9 months without any problems.

gold crowns cemented in position

gold crowns cemented in position

Gold is generally accepted as a better material for back molar teeth. It is softer and less abrasive to opposing and adjacent teeth. However it is not usually the first choice for patients as most patients want white natural looking teeth.

For further information please visit Brighton implant Clinic

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Treatment planning.

First assessment

Frontal view of teeth, note missing teeth on patients upper left side

The first appointment when seeing an implant dentist is a very important part of the whole dental implant treatment. Usually this initial assessment is where the dentist will listen to the problems you may be facing with missing or damaged teeth. A thorough examination is usually carried out which includes an assessment of the medical history and general health. If you are suitable for dental implant treatment then the dentist will carefully take records of your mouth. These records include the number of teeth present, the number of missing teeth, how many teeth are filled, crowned or root treated etc.

During the assessment the space which will require an implant needs to be accurately assessed if it is suitable for dental implant treatment. Firstly for an implant to be placed into the jaw bone, sufficient bone is needed in both width, height and thickness. The diameters of dental implants which we use in our clinic range from 3.0mm-7.0mm in diameter. In addition to the amount of bone present, we also need to ensure that there is sufficient space for the final crown or bridge to fit.

Missing teeth

Two missing premolar teeth on upper left side

Sometimes due to tooth loss having occurred a long time ago, the space available for tooth replacement is not sufficient for a dental implant to be placed. In this post we discuss a case where a patient came to our clinic for a solution to a space on the upper left side. The teeth had been missing for several years and for several reasons the patient had been unable to have any treatment carried out to date. The patient had lost 2 premolar teeth about 8 years before.

bone loss noted due to teeth being removed 8 years ago

bone loss noted due to teeth being removed 8 years ago

When teeth are missing, the surrounding bone shrinks by way of a natural process. Natural teeth provide stimulus to the surrounding bone and during chewing and function the bone is stimulated by these forces. This ensures that the jaw bone is maintained when natural teeth are present. When natural teeth are lost this stimulus stops and the bone shrinkage ensues.

artificial teeth on plaster model

artificial teeth on plaster model showing size of new teeth

In addition to bone shrinkage, teeth adjacent to the space move. Teeth can tip towards the space, opposing teeth can over-erupt and the space can be reduced in size. This lack of space can cause problems in future when new teeth are being planned for the missing teeth space. During the examination it is important that impressions are taken in the mouth so that ‘study models’ can be produced in order to allow the implant dentist an accurate scenario of what is in the mouth.

two smaller premolar teeth in position

two smaller premolar teeth in position

In this case it was noted that the two premolar teeth had been missing for several years and the first molar tooth had in fact drifted towards the space. The patient was informed of this and we explained that if the space was to be replaced with teeth exactly as they were originally then it would not be possible. The space presently was large enough for two premolars however they would be smaller in size than the original teeth which had been lost 8 years ago. We explained to the patient that if we did want to replace the space with the exact size of premolar teeth as before then orthodontic treatment would be needed in order to push the molar tooth back to the position that it was before the teeth were lost.

premolar teeth in position

premolar teeth in position

It was decided in the end that we would make some trials with the study models for the patient to see what the replacement teeth would look like. If the the new premolar teeth were going to be acceptable then the patient would proceed with two dental implants and two crowns, even though the replacement teeth would be smaller than the original.

The second option was to consider orthodontic treatment to push the molar tooth backwards in order to provide space for the two original sized premolar teeth. This option would give a better aesthetic result however it would take longer to complete as the orthodontic treatment usually takes 18-24 months to complete. One also has to bear in mind the added cost of orthodontic treatment on top of the dental implant treatment costs.

occlusal view of premolar teeth

occlusal view of premolar teeth

The third option would be to consider just one implant with one crown (and no orthodontic treatment) This one crown would be the same size as the original premolar teeth which had been lost. By replacing just one tooth a small space would be left behind the premolar tooth. It could be argued that the single tooth implant would be more aesthetic as the tooth would be more proportional in size to the original teeth which had been lost. The disadvantage of this option would be that a small space would be left behind the first premolar and this space may be out of site when the patient smiles.

I hope this blog article has confused you, hopefully the pictures in the article are helpful. If you require any further information please feel free to contact Brighton Implant Clinic

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Why do I need bone augmentation ?

tooth has been extracted, gum and bone tissue loss evident

tooth has been extracted, gum and bone tissue loss evident

When we lose natural teeth, the bone around the tooth shrinks. If you have lost a tooth due to gum disease, the bone around the root will have resorbed over time and this will ultimately have been the cause of the tooth loss. If a tooth has been extracted by your dentist, the bone around the root will also shrink. This process occurs in differing amounts between individuals but it does always occur. If you are considering having dental implants it is important to take into consideration that bone does shrink following tooth loss and this may have a serious impact on the success of the implant. Even though there may be sufficient bone for the implant to be placed, the appearance of the crown may not be perfect due to bone loss following tooth extraction.

Your implant dentist should be able to identify this during the initial consultation. It may be that the tooth which was lost is further back in your mouth and out of site. If this is the case then it may be ok to NOT graft an extraction site following an extraction. Provided there is enough bone to place the implant it will be suitable to do this. However in the front of the mouth especially in the upper jaw it may be a good idea to add bone or graft the site where an implant is to be placed. By grafting the site with artificial bone one may reduce the amount of gum and bone shrinkage which occurs following tooth extraction. The bone used for grafting can be obtained from your own mouth, however it is common practice now to use bone derived from another source. The most common type of bone used is bone derived from an animal source. This is usually Bovine bone. The bone is prepared in special laboratories and specifically prepared for bone grafting procedures. The artificial bone acts like a scaffold for new bone to grow onto and this way encourages new bone to form.

Denture in place covering area which has receded

Denture in place covering area which has receded, the tooth has been lengthened to cover the defect

The artificial bone usually takes 6-9 months to form into hard bone. During this time it is important that there is no movement on the bone grafted site. Dentures can cause problems to these areas if they are allowed to put pressure on bone grafted areas. It is highly recommended that no contact or movement be allowed on bone grafted sites.

In this example it is evident that there has been some bone loss after the patient lost the upper anterior tooth. After the tooth was removed the area was not grafted with artificial bone and for that reason it is clear that the gum and bone have collapsed. At present the patient is wearing a denture and this is covering the defect which has formed following bone loss. Once the implant is completed with the crown the bone loss will become more evident and the patient may not like the final result.

It is very important to address this issue during the treatment planning stages. Bone grafting is not recommended for every single extraction case however it is strongly recommended when teeth are lost on the upper anterior regions. The patient needs to be made aware of the added complexity of the treatment and the higher risk of failure.

If you have any questions or queries regarding bone grafting procedures please feel free to contact us Brighton implant Clinic

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One or Two stage implant surgery ?

Dental implants are widely used today to replace missing teeth. Generally the surgical procedure when placing implants can be done in two ways.

one stage implant, healing abutment attached immediately following surgery

one stage implant, healing abutment attached immediately following surgery, the healing abutment 'sticks ' out above the gum level

One Stage Implant surgery. In this case the implant is placed into the bone, if there is enough bone volume and the density is good, then the stability of the implant will be good aswell. Careful surgical preparation is needed in order to ensure that the implant is stable. During surgery the dentist is able to measure the stability of the implant by means of specific instruments. If the stability is above a certain level then it will be ok to attach a provisional crown or a healing abutment. This means that after the implant surgery, it will not be necessary to undergo another surgical procedure. If a provisional crown has been used then this will need to be removed in order for the final impressions to be taken. Similarly if a healing abutment has been used this will also not require any local anaesthetic or surgery in order for the impressions to be taken. In summary, one stage surgery means just one appointment of surgery.

two stage implant, no abutment is attached, just the implant is in place

two stage implant, no abutment is attached, just the implant is in place, the implant is buried under the gum tissue

Two stage surgery is preferred when the implant is placed and the stability of the implant is less than ideal. As mentioned above the stability of the implant is measured after surgery and if this is below the required level , the implant dentist will have no option but to leave the implant buried under the gum tissue. This will ensure that the implant is protected by the covering gum tissue. This inturn will ensure that the implant has the best opportunity to heal during the healing phase. You will not be able to see the implant after surgery when having a two stage surgery procedure. After a suitable healing period 4-6 months the implant will need to be uncovered.

healing abutment in place

Healing abutment protruding above gum level

This process of uncovering requires local anaesthetic and sometimes suturing. A provisional crown or healing abutment will then be attached to the implant so that the gum tissue will not cover the implant again. After this process the implant will effectively resemble the same as an implant during the one stage procedure.

 

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missing tooth

healing abutment in place

healing abutment after surgical placement of dental implant

If you have a missing tooth you have probably heard your dentist give you the dreaded news then followed by a complex list of alternatives of replacing the missing tooth. It is important to replace missing teeth as soon as possible as the effect of a missing tooth or teeth can have detrimental effects on other teeth. It is well documented that teeth adjacent to the missing tooth will drift and tip towards the space as the forces of chewing are applied along the dental arch.

This in turn causes the teeth to move and small spaces become available between neighbouring teeth. Unfortunately small spaces in the mouth are not ideal as food debris and plaque can cause further problems.

One problem which occurs is called food impaction and this occurs when food becomes trapped between teeth. A food trap may cause further pressure and discomfort and this will lead to teeth moving even more. Tooth decay is also more likely when food debris is constantly accumulating between two adjacent teeth.

close up of dental implant

dental implant connection, legacy brand of implant with internal hex

So today we have a predictable solution to replace missing teeth….Dental Implants. The procedure itself is predictable and usually doesn’t last longer than an hour.

Once the implant is placed one needs to wait at least 4-6 months for the bone to heal. After the healing process a tooth is made which is connected to the implant in order to replace the missing tooth.

dental implant crown prior to fitting in the mouth

dental implant crown laboratory work

 

 


 

 

 

 

the final result, implant dental crown fitted in place

dental implant crown in position

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What type of dental implant system ?

dental implant fixture

dental implant fixture prior to surgery

This is a common question which patients ask us. Lets explain what makes up a dental implant and then we will explain briefly some differences between different implant systems.

 

A dental implant usually consists of three parts.

the dental implant ( also called the fixture ) this is made of titanium and is inserted into the jaw bone. The fixture is usually cylindrical and has some threads which make it resemble a small screw. Dental implants or fixtures vary greatly from one another. Most implants are made of a metal called titanium. Some clinicians do use implants made of Zirconia however this is a relatively new alternative and there is a lot less research conducted on this material as a real alternative to titanium implants. The choice of titanium implants is also vastly wider as they have been around for many years.

 

Implants are made of titanium. Some are made of commercially pure titanium and others are made of titanium alloy. Many of the initial implant designs were made out of commercially pure titanium however titanium alloy has been more popular in recent years as its generally stronger than commercially pure titanium and offers comparable bone integrating properties.

 

Implants can vary in shape. Naturally most implant companies produce a wide variety of widths and lengths of implants specific for the application of where they are needed. Small spaces or smaller teeth may require a smaller implant. Conversely larger spaces may require a wider and longer implant.

 

Most modern implants have threads which allow the implant to be inserted into the jaw bone. Some companies produce implants with very small or ‘gentle’ threads while others produce implants which have far more aggressive threads. Some companies produce both kinds as some surgeons prefer implants with gentle smaller threads while other surgeons prefer implants with more aggressive threads.

 

Some implant designs have few single threads while other implant designs have many double lead threads or even quadruple lead threads.

 

Some implant designs are perfectly cylindral , some are tapered while others are cylindrical and conical. A great variation in implant shape exists again to cater for the preference of the implant surgeon. Some implant shapes are more appropriate for areas of bone where density is high while other shapes are preferred where bone is less dense or soft.

 

The surface of the implant also varies from one implant brand to the other. Some implant companies have roughened surfaces along the whole length of the implant while others have only part of the surface roughened. Some surfaces are etched with fluoride while other surfaces are sandblasted with small particles called hydroxy-apatite while others are etched by means of a laser.

 

The implant has two ends. The end which is inserted first into the bone known as the apex can also vary greatly between different implant brands. Some may be pointed, others completely flat, some rounded.

 

The opposite end of the implant is known as the head of the implant or base or platform. Several different shapes or connections exist which allow the future abutment to be connected to the implant. Some companies prefer to use an external connection while others use an internal connection. Some of the more popular implant brands use mainly internal connection and these vary in shape from hexagon, octogon, triangular or perfectly round

 

Some implants have abutments which connect to the implant by means of screws others connect without screws.

 

So having mentioned only briefly how different implant systems can be one begins to understand that a lot of variation exists between implant brands and their designs.

 

Generally most implant systems work well today. Each of the implant brands have their advantages and their disadvantages. No implant system is perfect and caters for all clinical situations.

 

Most implant systems have high success rates hence its not as important as one may think what type of implant is used. What is more important is what system the implant surgeon feels comfortable using and what system he or she has had predictable results with.

 

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implant retained bridgework

implant bridge

implant bridge supported on 2 dental implants

If you have missing teeth and are considering replacing them with fixed dental implants ? Today we have an example of a patient who came to see our clinic to replace 3 missing teeth on the lower right side of his mouth. The teeth were missing for 2 years and the patient found it difficult to function properly. Eating was difficult as the patient was accustomed to eating mainly on the right side. One doesn’t realise that when we are missing teeth in an area the opposite adjacent teeth are rendered useless as they have no opposing teeth to function with.

The patient attended our clinic and a detailed assessment was carried out. Xrays and a CT scan was taken to ascertain if sufficient bone was present for the placement of dental implants. The decision was taken to place 2 dental implants to support a 3 unit implant bridge.

healing abutments in place after 4 months of healing

healing abutments in place after 4 months of healing

The surgical procedure usually takes about an hour to complete. Most patients have this treatment carried out under local anaesthetic but we do offer sedation for patients anxious about dental treatment.

Once the implants are placed we allow a 3-4 month healing period. During this time the implants integrate into the jaw bone and become fused into the jaw. After 4 months impressions are taken and these are sent to the dental laboratory.

bridge in metal prior to porcelain finish

bridge in metal prior to porcelain finish

In certain cases we prefer to test the final restoration in metal prior to completing the final restoration. This is called a metal try-in. Once it is confirmed that the restoration is being correctly made then we proceed to completing the bridge with tooth coloured porcelain.

 

 

metal try-in being checked for accuracy and precise fit

metal try-in being checked for accuracy and precise fit

The whole process takes 4-6 months to complete. The final appointment the bridge is fixed to the dental implants by means of abutment screws. Where possible we prefer to use a screw retained bridges in order to access implants should this be necessary in future.

 

 

bridge work fitted on implants

bridge work fitted on implants

For further information please Contact our Clinic Brighton implant Clinic

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what is a healing abutment ?

2 healing abutments in place

two healing abutments are attached to the implants

A healing abutment is commonly used in dental implant treatment. The implant itself is placed into the jaw bone however it depends on several factors of how the implant is then left to heal during the osseo integration phase.

Usually dental implant treatment can be carried out in one of two ways. By a 1 stage procedure or a 2 stage procedure.

In a 1 stage procedure, the implants are placed into the jaw bone and provided the stability of the implant is adequate then a healing abutment can be attached immediately to the implant. The healing abutment effectively increases the length of the a implant so that it protrudes through the gum tissue. This in turn causes the gum to heal around the healing abutment and not grow over the implant. The healing abutment is usually wider than the implant in order to sculpt the shape of the gum tissues for the future crown.

healing abutments removed

the healing abutments are removed , one is able to see the neat gum tissue moulded for the future implant crowns

In a 2 stage procedure the implant is placed into the jaw bone in the same sequence and manner than in a 1 stage procedure. However in some cases, either due to reduced stability during the implant placement or if certain types of bone augmentation are carried out the surgeon may decide to cover the implants completely. In this instance a simple cap is placed onto the implant. This is called a cover screw. The gum tissue is replaced back in the position as before the surgery and the gum effectively covers over the implant. This means that the implant is not visible and cant be felt in the mouth. This method provides optimal healing conditions for the implant as it is safely buried under the gum tissue. After the healing process, a second stage of surgery will be required in order to find the implant and attach a healing abutment. The procedure is usually a simple one and requires only a little local anaesthetic. Once the position of the implant is located, a healing abutment can be attached to the implant. The gum tissues will then adapt around the new healing abutment and form a neat tissue collar around the healing abutment.

 

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how long do dental implants last

Many patients ask me how long do dental implants last. Well it can vary from person to person depending on several factors. Firstly its important that the implant is placed correctly. The implant placement should ideally be placed into good areas of bone with sufficient bone volume and density. Once the implant is placed and restored with a crown or bridge, it is paramount to maintain the implant as best as possible. Caring for a dental implant is similar to that of a natural tooth. Daily brushing and flossing is necessary to prevent plaque and food debris accumulation. The gum tissue around the implant is sensitive to similar diseases that affect gum tissue around natural teeth. Regular visits to your dentist and or hygienist will ensure that the surrounding gum tissues are well looked after and maintained healthy. The gum tissues around teeth are known as the periodontium and the gum disease around natural teeth is known as periodontal disease or periodontitis. Lastly the name used for gum disease affecting the tissues around dental implants is known as peri-implantitis.

ok so with general terminology discussed we can highlight what may affect the long term lifespan of dental implants. Oral hygiene is very important to maintain the adjacent tissues around dental implants and by brushing , flossing and using regular mouth rinsing one is able keep the areas around dental implants disease free. Factors which may affect oral hygiene like reduced brushing, heavy smoking may influence the long term life of dental implants. The dental implant crown or bridge may also fail in a small number of cases however this is usually due to mechanical failure or similar problems. Fracture of porcelain on dental implants may be corrected by simply changing the dental implant crown or bridge. Fracture of porcelain may occur for no apparent reason but usually this may indicate some heavy biting forces on the implant crown or bridge.

If one googles lifespan of dental implants its difficult to therefore get an accurate answer as to how long dental implants last. As we have discussed dental implants may last varying lengths of time depending on the implant placement and the maintenance of the dental implant over the time after the implant was placed. In practice we have seen some dental implants last more than 25 years so hopefully if you consider dental implants they will last as long as 25 years or even longer.

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Am I too old for dental implants?

Is there any age limit for having dental implant treatment ? Due to medical advancements the average population is living longer and meaning that more people may experience the need for long term permanent fixed teeth. In the past removable dentures have been a choice for tooth replacement however these are usually associated with discomfort and generally an inability to function properly. What’s more removable dentures do not accommodate changes in the jawbone, which occur when natural teeth are lost. When we lose our natural teeth, bone resorbs or in other words shrinks. This happens most soon after the tooth or teeth are removed. After about 1 year the bone changes continue to occur are less but still continue gradually over time. The gum tissues which cover bone and are usually the base on which dentures sit are therefore only accurate soon after a removable denture is made. As bone changes with time so do the gum tissues which cover the jaw bone. This means that removable dentures are not very accurate even after a few months after they are originally made

 

The good news is that dental implants can actually stimulate bone growth. The reason for this is that dental implants are placed into the jaw bone and hence provide some stimulus (during chewing and function) to the jaw bone. So the good news is that your jaw bone will not resorb as much  if you have dental implants as opposed to full or partial dentures.

 

In our clinic we have placed dental implants in patients over 90 years of age and there has been little difference in healing times or recuperation.  What’s more is the improvement in patients quality of life has been positively significant. Patients are able to eat healthier foods like raw vegetables, nuts and generally more nutritious foods when there is better chewing ability.

 

When dental implants are placed the procedure usually requires a number of visits. The implant is usually placed during a small operation, which may be carried out under local anesthetic or intravenous sedation. The implant treatment plan may be carried out in several ways. In certain cases implant placement with immediate function is preferred as this allows the implants to be placed and provisional teeth placed onto the implants in usually a one-stage procedure. The procedure is not possible in all cases as it depends on several factors including general bone volume and density. Having dental implants with immediate function can actually improve bone healing as recent research has shown.

 

It is important to always undergo a thorough examination prior to dental implant treatment. Your implant dentist will ensure that you are both medically and dentally fit before you are able to have dental implant treatment.

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What is root canal treatment ?

If you have experienced acute dental pain and seen your dentist you have probably heard the words that ….you may need a root canal treatment or endodontic treatment.

What is a root canal treatment or endodontic treatment? 

Our natural teeth consist of several parts, one the outside the visible part of the tooth is covered by enamel. This layer of your tooth is incredibly hard and resistant and is the hardest material in our bodies. It is formed early on during tooth development and is generally formed in early adolescence Directly beneath the enamel layer we find the dentine and this generally makes up the majority of our teeth. The dentine layer is softer than enamel and is made up of many millions of tubules, which we call dentine tubules.  At the core of each tooth is the pulp chamber which houses the dental pulp. The pulp is made up of small dental nerves, blood supply and lymphatic drainage. Each tooth is therefore supplied by a nerve, an artery and a vein.

Ok now that we have briefly discussed the anatomy of a natural tooth we can explain what happens when we need a root canal. Generally tooth decay is a slow process which usually starts first in the enamel. As we mentioned above because the enamel layer is very hard the decay usually takes a long time to penetrate through the enamel layer. However once tooth decay crosses the dentine enamel junction the decay spreads generally much faster. The reason for this is that dentine is much softer than enamel and is also supplied by more nutrients through dentinal tubules. Once decay is inside the dentine, the bacteria which cause tooth decay travel down the dentinal tubules and eventually land up in the pulp.

At first the pulp may resist the bacteria and decay in close proximity however as decay gradually progresses the pulp will become more and more infected with bacteria. In some cases this may be a reversible process or problem know as reversible pulpitis (which means inflammation of the pulp tissues) however if this is untreated the situation will worsen and may result in irreversible changes to the pulp otherwise know as irreversible pulpitis.

The symptoms for reversible pulpitis may be tooth ache and a sensitivity to hot and cold, the symptoms of pain and discomfort may last a small time ie a few seconds. Sometimes there may be no symptoms at all and the patient may not be aware at all that there is decay close to the pulp chamber and causing a pulpitis.

The treatment of this at this stage usually only requires a small dental restoration. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic. The affected part of the tooth which has become decayed and damaged by decay is removed using high precision instruments. After the damaged and decayed area is removed the dentist will carefully examine the area to make sure that no decay remains and that the area is disease free. New dental materials with similar properties to  natural tooth can then be used to replace the missing damaged part of the tooth. After treatment one may experience slight sensitivity to hot and cold as the pulp adapts to the new dental restoration which has replaced the damaged and decayed dentine.

If the process of early decay is not treated and the decay spreads well into the pulp chamber one may experience an irreversible pulpitis. As discussed above this process involves the bacteria tracking down the dentinal tubules and infecting the pulp to a degree that the pulpitis is irreversible.

In this scenario the dental pulp will need to be removed as usually this process is accompanied with severe and acute dental pain. The treatment required involves the careful and precise removal and cleansing of the pulp chamber. Dental pain generally originates from the dental nerve and on removing this the symptoms of pain are relieved. As the pulp chamber has been infected with bacteria from the dental decay it is important that the pulp chamber is thoroughly cleaned to remove most of the bacteria that caused the problem in the first place. We say that most of the bacteria need to be removed as its impossible to remove all bacteria completely. Bacteria are microscopic and impregnate the walls of the pulp chamber hence its impossible to remove all bacteria. The root canal process usually involves one or multiple appointments.

The process of root canal treatment involves removal of the dental pulp, thorough rinsing of the pulp chamber with antiseptic and antibacterial liquids and gels. The dentist will also use special instruments called files and reamers in order to remove a uniform thickness layer of dentine which have impregnated bacteria inside the pulp. This will remove as much bacteria as possible and also facilitate the final stage of the root canal treatment process. Once the pulp chamber has been thoroughly cleaned, rinsed and prepared with files and reamers the root canal is sealed precisely using a root canal filler. The dentist will take some radiographs throughout the root canal treatment in order to verify that the treatment is being carried out accurately and precisely. Sometimes teeth may show additional root canals ( more than those expected ) and from the radiographs this can be determined. Generally the dentist will verify that the cleaning and preparation process of the root canal treatment has extended all the way to the very end point of the root canal in order to ensure that as many bacteria are removed. Leaving a portion of the root canal untreated is surely a reason for root canal failure in the long term. Its not uncommon for a general dentist to be unable to reach the very endpoint or apex of the root canal. This may happen because the root canal is very obstructed or naturally twisted or bent. This will decrease the chance of long term success. In some instances a general dentist may miss a root canal completely as its not evident to the naked eye and hence not visible to treat.

The final stage of the root canal process will involve sealing the treated canals with a root canal sealer. This can be done in a number of ways using a variety of techniques and materials. The objective is to seal each root canal with a three dimensional sealer and prevent the canal from leaking.

As one can see successful root canal treatment involves several stages of the treatment being carried out successfully. For this reason it is worth noting that root canal treatment is a very precise complex treatment to carry out accurately. The treatment usually requires a long appointment sometimes up to 2 hours in order to carry out each stage of the process properly. Sometimes the tooth needing root canal treatment may be far back in the mouth and this poses difficulties of access to the tooth and more discomfort for the patient in order to keep their mouth wide open while the procedure is being carried out. The access of some teeth may not allow a general dentist to carry out root canal treatment on second molars for example for this reason.

See our blog post on why you should see an endodontist for your root canal treatment.

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fixed dental implant bridge or overdenture on implants ?

If you are considering dental implant treatment to replace all of the upper or lower teeth you have the option of choosing fixed teeth on implants or a denture on implants ( known as an overdenture on implants)

 

Lets start by discussed the advantages and disadvantages of each option

 

Fixed teeth.

This option is usually the more popular among patients. Having fixed teeth means that one is able to function, ie eat and speak with ease as the teeth are fixed and don’t move. Usually for fixed teeth a bridge is attached to the dental implants and 8-12 teeth are fixed usually by means of small screws to the implants that were placed into the jaw. Usually this treatment is carried out in just one day. The treatment of all on 4 or same day teeth means that one is able to remove problem teeth, place a minimum of 4 implants and fixed teeth attached to the implants on the same day. As the fixed bridge is secured to the implants by small screws its possible to remove the bridge without too much trouble. Naturally only your implant dentist will be able to do this as this will not be something you will be able to do yourself. Fixed teeth therefore are more easy to accommodate, better with biting and functioning and generally are more stable than a denture on implants. Patients also generally feel more comfortable with fixed teeth and psychologically patients prefer having something which is not removable frequently each day ( for example its recommended that an overdenture be removed and cleaned after meals.)

 

However the disadvantages of a fixed bridge are that the cleaning of the bridge is more complex and requires more time to maintain properly. Small brushes and floss need to be used each day in order to prevent the build up of plaque and food debris around the implants which hold the fixed bridge in place.

 

A fixed bridge treatment is usually more expensive than an overdenture.

 

One of the most important disadvantages of the fixed bridge is that there may be a lack of lip support with the final result. What does this mean. After losing teeth our jaw bone usually shrinks, and when this happens the lips which are supported by the jaw bone changes form. In the upper and lower jaws it may cause patients to look older with the onset of loss of teeth. If a patient has been wearing full dentures for a long period time and the bone loss has been extensive or severe then a fixed bridge may not provide the same amount of support as there was before with the full removable denture. This is unfortunate as the patient may be presented with a dilemma of fixed teeth but poor aesthetic result at the end of treatment. The lip support is very important when choosing which option to consider as a lack of lip support can drastically age the appearance of the individual.

 

Denture on locators

In this option a denture is made which fits very accurately onto implants. The denture either upper or lower usually clicks into position and is maintained stable by the implants and some small unique attachments usually called ‘locators’.

 

The overdenture provides good function as the teeth are secured and stable with the help of the implants. A very small amount of movement will exist between the denture and the implants as the teeth are removable and not fixed. I am referring to a movement of less then 1 mm in all directions. In order to remove the overdenture the patient will need to exert some force in order to remove the denture. Usually a small click is heard when the overdenture is seated correctly and when it is removed.

 

As discussed above the overdenture will provide good function and allow patients to eat comfortably and speak without the overdenture moving. It is recommended that the overdenture is removed after meals for cleaning and overnight. This is one of the advantages of the overdenture over a fixed bridge as some patients may have difficulty in keeping a fixed bridge properly clean. This can be due to arthiritis or lack of manual dexterity in order to keep the fixed bridge clean. In these cases an overdenture may be better in order to allow patients to clean their teeth and be able to visually see that the overdenture has been thoroughly cleaned. Cleaning the implants in the mouth is considered easier than a fixed bridge as this will only require a normal brush. Its very important that when cleaning implants which support and overdenture that the patient is able to see that the implants are properly cleaned. The implants and their locator attachments are easy to clean and don’t usually attract plaque as they are highly polished surfaces and plaque does not usually adhere to them however if plaque is left for long enough then this will eventually accumulate around the implant and the locator attachment. Studies have shown that this plaque around implants can cause gum disease around implants known as peri implantitis.

 

An overdenture on implants will also provide very good final aesthetic results. Because bone shrinks when natural teeth are removed the jaw will change shape. By using an overdenture one would be able to replace this missing bone and tissue. In doing so the natural proportion of the mouth will be better and hence the final result can be aesthetically better than if a fixed bridge were used.

 

An overdenture on implants is usually cheaper than fixed teeth.

 

An overdenture on the upper jaw can sometimes be easier to speak with. Because the roof of the mouth is covered with the overdenture air does not leak through small air spaces which can sometimes be found with fixed teeth.

 

Lastly a denture on locators will require more frequent maintenance as the small clips which the denture uses to attach to the implants do wear out with time. This means that more visits will be required to change these small attachments every 4-6 months or so. The attachments are generally inexpensive and wear out due to the in and out movements several times per day.

 

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Discoloured Anterior Tooth ?

have you ever wondered why some teeth may appear darker than normal ?

Natural teeth have a blood supply , this means that each and every natural tooth in our mouths have a separate artery and vein which are connected inside each tooth. This is quite amazing given that these vessels are tiny and bring nutrients to each tooth continuously. The vessels enter and exit each tooth mainly through the tip of the root called the apex. Sometimes these delicate vessels may become damaged as a result of trauma or extensive tooth decay. If this happens the vessels inside the tooth may become damaged and become completely detached from the larger artery or vein connected to each tooth. During this process the damaged vessels inside the tooth may bleed inside the tooth causing blood to pool inside the tooth.

A little information about blood. It contains small amounts Iron and this has the effect of staining the tooth over time. Unfortunately over time this staining impregnates the tooth surface from the inside out. The tooth will appear bluish or blackish if this has happened. Usually the treatment of choice is to remove the damaged vessels by means of a root canal treatment. See our post on root canal treatments if you need information about root canal treatments. The discoloration of the tooth can be improved by removing the stained material by means of internal tooth whitening.

Internal tooth whitening differs from normal tooth whitening , with internal tooth whitening we place whitening gel inside the tooth and the effect of the gel works from the inside out.

Once the tooth has been whitened it can be sealed with a composite resin or it may require crowning or veneer. It is important to note that if the tooth is not whitened or if the color of the tooth is not improved then this may affect the final color and shade of the crown or veneer.

Anterior teeth crowns are more commonly made of metal free materials such as Emax or Empress. These crowns usually give excellent aesthetics as they allow natural light to shine through in the same way as natural teeth. The disadvantage of this is that if the tooth underneath is discolored then this will make the final crown or veneer also discolored.

if you have any further questions please feel free to email or contact our practice

 

discolored anterior tooth ?

 

 

 

 

 

 

discolored anterior tooth

 

 

 

 

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Dental crowns with dark or black lines.

Have you ever seen dark or black lines around dental crowns ? Unfortunately for many people this is something that occurs around their crowns soon after having the crowns fitted or after some time in the mouth.

Dental crowns

The dark line is usually seen at the margin of the crown and if the crown is at the front of the mouth in a very visible area it may be noticeable.

 

The dark line is caused more commonly by a specific type of crown called porcelain fused to metal crown. In the past this type of crown was the most common when wanting to have a tooth crowned with tooth colored porcelain.

 

Porcelain on its own is not very strong and for that reason it was bonded onto metal in order for the porcelain to be strengthened. This worked well functionally as the crowns are generally very strong, however the metal is usually not tooth coloured !

 

Several metals can be used for making the framework onto which the porcelain was bonded. Metals can vary in colour but generally most used in porcelain bonded to metal crowns are grayish in colour.

Dental crowns with dark

The metal structure that supports the porcelain is known as a metal coping. This coping fits accurately over the tooth prepared to receive the porcelain bonded to metal crown. The porcelain is applied carefully over the metal coping in order to create a tooth coloured porcelain crown.

 

The margins of the crown are where the problems usually occur. The junction where the metal finishes and meets the porcelain can pose a problem aesthetically to the dentist and to the patient. Sometimes this margin is visible in the mouth and if this should be the case a dark line may become apparent.

 

Sometime the junction may be tucked slightly under the gum tissue in order to hide this margin, however this may darken the gum tissue in future.

 

Unfortunately this means that if a dark line is present around a crown, its most probably a porcelain fused to metal crown.

 

What can be done?

The only remedy for this problem is to replace the porcelain fused to metal crown with a metal free crown. It’s really a simple solution. Thankfully today we have porcelains that are stronger and more resistant to chewing forces hence they are sufficiently strong without the need for a metal coping.

 

The advantage of using metal free crowns means that one no longer needs to accept dark crown lines.

an example of a metal free crown, note that the inside is white or tooth coloured

an example of a metal free crown, note that the inside is white or tooth coloured

Empress or Emax are types of porcelains used today which function very well in eliminating the dark lines around crowns.

What are the advantages of metal free crowns

1 excellent aesthetics

2 biocompatible

3 as they are metal free, some patients prefer to have no metals in their mouth as this has been known to cause general health problems

4 accurate fit,

5 if there is some gum recession then no dark lines will be seen

metal free crowns, no metal margins ! lovely white teeth !

metal free crowns, no metal margins ! lovely white teeth !

what are the disadvantages of metal free crowns

1 Not all metal free crowns are as strong as each other. Emax is stronger than most other metal free crowns

2 Metal free crowns are not recommended for all teeth. Back teeth which have higher than normal stresses and forces may fracture some of the weaker metal free crowns

3 If the tooth underneath is discoloured due to root canal treatment or presence of metal posts etc, the metal free crowns may transmit the darker shade through the crown. This may result in a grey or bluish shaded crown. In these cases Zirconia crowns may be an alternative solution. See previous blog regarding discoloured metal free crowns.

Dental crowns with dark

For further information please feel free to contact our clinic Brighton implant Clinic

 

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What is Gum Disease?

advanced gum disease, note the amount of gum recession, these teeth have a very poor prognosis

 

Gum disease is a condition that can occur in some individuals, it is a reaction to some of the harmful bacteria that can be found in dental plaque. it is very important to look after your teeth and gums in order to have teeth which will last many years. You may have early signs of gum problems and it is not always apparent. It is therefore important that you visit your dentist at least 1-2 times per year to ensure that your gums are healthy

There are other factors that can affect an individuals response to this bacteria such as:

  • Smoking
  • Medication
  • Systemic disease
  • Genetic factor
  • Crowded teeth

 

pink healthy gum tissue

pink healthy gum tissue

Signs and symptoms of gum disease:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Bad breath
  • Teeth shifting
  • Swollen gums

If you experience any of the above signs or symptoms it would be wise to see a dentist and they can refer you to a hygienist.

For further information please visit our main site : Brighton implant Clinic

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Why do I need to floss?

Oral B Dental floss, using dental floss will reduce the incidence of gum disease

Oral B Dental floss, using dental floss will reduce the incidence of gum disease

 

Good oral hygiene has a very important role to play, not only to keep your teeth and gums healthy, but there is also some evidence to suggest that unhealthy gums could be a contributing factor in some systematic diseases, such as cardio vascular disease and strokes.

Brushing twice a day is very important so as to remove plaque, however brushing alone can not remove all the plaque, thus using dental floss and/or inter-dental brushes are a very important part of one’s dental hygiene routine.

Plaque accumulates inter-dentally (between the teeth) and can cause inflammation of the gum, this could lead to gum disease. Another reason is the fluoride from toothpaste can not penetrate the sticky layer of plaque, thus increasing the risk of dental caries (dental decay).

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Discoloured Teeth ?

tetracycline effect on natural teeth

 

Did you know that Tetracycline antibiotic can cause long term permanent tooth discolouration? Tetracycline has been used in the past for curing a variety of illnesses however it discolours teeth permanently if it is given to children while the adult teeth are forming. If this occurs the teeth are discoloured usually with a brownish colour.

Unfortunately this type of staining is not always treatable with conventional tooth whitening techniques. Tooth whitening can be unpredictable and can not provide the necessary result for the patient and for this reason the treatment of choice is usually porcelain laminate veneers.

Porcelain veneers are thin layers of porcelain which can be bonded carefully to teeth in order to correct the shade, shape and appearance. The treatment requires that a thin layer of the natural tooth be removed in order for the veneer to be bonded to.

For further information please visit our main site : Brighton implant Clinic

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All-On-6 Dental Implants

all on 6 dental hybrid bridge

The all on 4 dental implant solution has recently become well known in the dental implant world. Dr Paulo Malo of Malo Clinic in Lisbon claims to have been the pioneer of this dental implant treatment although some evidence exists that similar treatments to the all on 4 were being used prior to this. The all on 4 basically refers to the placement of 4 implants strategically placed in order to avoid complex bone grafting procedures in the upper and lower jaws. The treatment is not always possible as there are complex cases which are not suitable for the all on 4 treatment.

all on 6 bridge showing 6 small access holes whereby hybrid bridge is secured to the 6 implants
all on 6 bridge showing 6 small access holes whereby hybrid bridge is secured to the 6 implants

The all on 4 protocol involves placing implants at a 45 degree angle in order to avoid the maxillary sinuses on the upper jaw and the inferior dental nerve in the lower jaw. The two anterior implants are placed according to the anatomy of the jaw bone. Together the 4 implants provide a foundation to support a fixed hybrid bridge. The hybrid bridge is made of acrylic and usually consists of 10-12 teeth.

So what is an all-on-6 ?

basically in some cases

plaster model showing position of dental implants
plaster model showing position of dental implants

where patients have very good amounts of bone, it is not necessary to place angled implants in order to avoid the anatomical structures mentioned above. This means that the implants can be placed in a conventional means…basically vertically as there is sufficient space and bone for the implants. In such cases one can place 6 implants in order to provide greater support and stability to the hybrid bridge.

implants in the mouth prior to fitting bridge

implants in the mouth prior to fitting bridge

the all on 6 protocol basically allows patients to have implants placed and fixed teeth completed in just one day. The fixed bridge which is fitted after surgery is a provisional hybrid bridge. This provisional bridge is usually used for upto 6 months while the implants heal and fuse with the jaw bone. Once it has been confirmed that the implants have all osseointegrated then the final hybrid bridge can be completed.

the hybrid bridge is fitted in the mouth on the 6 implants the small holes are covered with tooth coloured dental filling material

the hybrid bridge is fitted in the mouth on the 6 implants the small holes are covered with tooth coloured dental filling material

Sometimes one needs to be make changes to the final bridge. The patient may want to change the colour of the final bridge, the appearance of the teeth or alter the amount of lip support. Together with the dental technician one can create the perfect smile you have always wanted.

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