Archives for November, 2011

City of London dentists look at the different types of dental veneer

November 30th, 2011

To help them achieve the smile they’ve always wanted many people turn to dental veneers to provide them with the smile makeover they desire. However, with such a wide range of options on the market it is important to know what is available and the best veneers for you.

Porcelain veneers, available from your London dentist, are made up of a very thin layer of porcelain, which is then fixed into place over the tooth. These dental veneers tend to take around two or three appointments to be fitted. During the first of these appointments your teeth and mouth will be examined to decide which veneers are best for you. During the first or second visit a small piece of your tooth will be removed, to make room for the new veneer. You will have temporary veneers to wear after your teeth have been treated, which will then be replaced with your permanent veneers during your last visit.

The second option is composite resin veneers, which are made from the same material used to create white fillings. The procedure for these veneers is simple and the resin is applied to the surface of the tooth before being moulded into the tooth’s shape by the dentist. Although this option is cheaper than porcelain veneers, resin veneers don’t last as long and will probably need replacing after four or five years.

Lumineer veneers are the contact lenses of the teeth, as they are much slimmer than porcelain veneer and are around the same size as a contact lens. Lumineers only require around two dental visits and can be placed straight onto the tooth, without the need to remove any of the original tooth. Lumineers are incredibly durable but are more expensive than both porcelain and resin veneers.

Finally there are Cerec veneers. These veneers are also made of porcelain but are made for the patient at the dental surgery while they wait. 3D images are taken of the teeth, which are then sent to a computerised milling machine, which produces the veneers from a solid porcelain block. The machine can make veneers in less than five minutes, so you can have your permanent veneers fitted right away. Cerec veneers are long-lasting and can restore the appearance of your smile on the same day as your consultation; however, they are the most expensive of all veneers.

Now that you have the options it is important to consult with your dentist to ensure you get the best veneers for you, and your dentist will assist you with your choice.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Dental veneers | Comments Off

City of London dentists take a look at some of the different kinds of dental implant

November 28th, 2011

When it comes to dental implants it is important to know what types of implants are available and which is best for you. So…

Root form dental implant:

This is used when there is a lot of breadth and deepness to the patient’s jawbone.  When having root form implants fitted you will receive anaesthetic and your dentist will then proceed to expose an area of the jawbone before preparing it for the insertion of the implant. Once the implant is inserted and fitted into the correct place, your gums will be stitched back together and left to heal, which usually takes about six months. Once the implant is fully healed and the implant has fused with the jawbone, the abutment will then be attached. However, if you have a narrow jawbone, or your jawbone is too thin for root form implants implant, you may require bone-grafting treatment.

Plate form Implant:

If your jawbone is too narrow for an implant and bone grafting, then a plate form implant can be used instead. This implant is both smooth and long, which makes it a better shape to fit into a slender jawbone. The procedure is the same as the root form dental implant and will usually take around three to six months to heal. However, in some cases restorations can be fitted straightaway, but this will be the choice of your dentist.

Immediate Load Dental Implant:

This implant is immediately placed after the extraction of a tooth and the crown will be immediately attached to the abutment. In order to qualify for this procedure you must have a significant amount of bone in order to stabilise the implant. When having this type of implant there are two different procedures: the first requires an impression made of your jawbone after it has been exposed, which is then used to make a bespoke fitted implant for your jaw. The implant is then fitted into place on the exposed jawbone, before being stitched after the installation of the teeth. The other alternative is to have a CAT scan instead of an impression of your jaw in order to build the implant.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Dental implants | Comments Off

Why do people in London and across the globe suffer from dental phobia?

November 26th, 2011

Visiting the dentist can be a traumatic time for many people, as a fear of the dentist is just as upsetting as any other type of phobia.

The most common cause of dental phobia is attributed to a previous traumatic dental experience, which can involve a number of different scenarios, including the tools that were used, the pain experienced afterwards or even the unpleasant behaviour of the dentist or other dental staff.

Some cases are more extreme than others and out of the 80% of Americans that suffer with dental phobia; there are around 10-15% that have the most extreme type of dental phobia, where they are terrified even of the sight of a dentist.

Others have a fear of the dentist due to information they have heard from their friends and family, who may describe their negative experience at the dentist, which then leaves a lasting impression on the person, progressing into a dental phobia. However, it is important that you remember that each person’s experience is different and does not necessary mean you will suffer in the same way.

There are a multitude of other reasons why some people experience certain degrees of dental phobia, but not visiting the dentist with a dental issue, could lead to extreme on going pain that can ultimately worsen and result in extreme dental health problems.

It is important to remember that dental professionals can recognise if a patient is feeling scared whilst attending the dentist and will do as much as they can to make the patient feel as comfortable as possible. Many will gain the trust of their patient by explaining the dental procedures to them and providing tailored treatment for their needs and requirements.

For those who still feel extremely nervous about the procedure sedation is available, to help keep the patient relaxed throughout the dental procedure.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Dental phobia | Comments Off

What restoration should you choose to fix your smile at City of London dentists?

November 24th, 2011

If you are replacing a missing tooth with implants you can choose from either a crown, bridge or a denture, but it is important to know which replacement option is best for you.

Crowns

With age your teeth may begin to experience problems, as they become more prone to decay or fracture. If your tooth is beyond repair then a crown may be your best option and can help restore the overall look of your smile, as well as returning functionality of the tooth.

There are a number of different options when it comes to crowns depending on your situation. These include full porcelain crowns, porcelain fused to metal or even gold crowns.

You will need around 2-3 appointments to complete the restoration process. On your first visit the decay in your tooth will be removed and if necessary the missing structure will be replaced with a core build up. The tooth will then be prepared for restoration and an impression of the tooth will be made. During your second appointment your crown will then be fitted onto the tooth and cemented into the mouth, rendering the restoration complete.

Bridges

Bridges are typically made from gold, metal or ceramic foundations, which are fused into the mouth allowing the bridge to function. The function of the dental bridge is to attach the restorative teeth to the patient’s natural teeth on either side of the gap. This bridge ultimately closes the gap with new teeth, fixed to the remaining natural teeth.

There are three types of bridge: the traditional bridge, the cantilever bridge and the Maryland bonded bridge.

To begin your bridge restoration first an impression is taken of the adjacent teeth. Once the restoration has been created from the impression, the bridge will be fitted into the mouth and then cemented to the opposing teeth to completely restore your smile.

Dentures

Dentures are used as a replacement for natural teeth, which can be taken in and out at your own convenience. You have a choice of either full or partial dentures, and your dentist will decide which is best option for you. Full dentures come in two forms:

Conventional Dentures:

The conventional denture involves removing the remaining teeth from the mouth and placing new full dentures once the gums have healed.  The healing usually takes several months, but temporary dentures can be fitted.

Immediate Dentures:

Immediate dentures are placed as soon as the teeth are removed. However, these will need to be realigned several months after being placed, as the supporting bone reshapes during the healing period.

Partial Dentures:

The partial denture rests on a metal framework, which is attached to the natural teeth, almost like a bridge.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Cosmetic dentistry | Comments Off

What kind of oral surgery might you need at City of London dentists?

November 22nd, 2011

Oral surgery is used for a number of health issues that can arise in and around the mouth; theses can range from impacted teeth to tooth loss and jaw related problems.

Wisdom Teeth

The emergence of wisdom teeth often requires dental surgery, as they can cause problems such as swelling, pain and infection of the gum tissue surrounding the wisdom tooth. This is because the wisdom tooth often becomes entrapped between the jawbone and gum tissue. They can also result in damage to nearby teeth and can sometimes result in the formation of cysts and tumours. Wisdom teeth do not always cause these problems, but if you are finding yourself in discomfort contact your dentist straight away.

Tooth Loss

Tooth loss and subsequent dental implant placement requires oral surgery. Dental implants or dental implant retained dentures help with the general motion of chewing, as dental implants are surgically inserted into the mouth as replacements for roots and therefore do not buckle or move about like loose dentures.

Jaw Problems

Oral surgery may be required to treat jaw related issues, including unequal jaw growth, where the upper or lower jawbone fails to grow properly, which can then cause difficulty with eating, speaking and breathing. Unequal jaw growth can be resolved with the use of braces or other orthodontic appliances, but for more serious issues oral surgery will be required to move either the upper or lower jawbone, or sometimes both, to create a new balanced position.

There are many other issues that can be resolved with oral surgery. Facial injuries can be treated with oral surgery to fix facial bones that have become broken. Oral surgery can also be used to help with snoring and sleep apnoea, where surgery is used to remove the soft tissues of the oropharynx or the lower jaw. Laser surgery can also be used to scar the palate, so that it tightens to help prevent snoring or sleep apnoea.

Other issues like facial infections, cleft lip and cleft palate repairs, lesion removal and biopsy can all be corrected with oral surgery so consult your dentist to find out the best option for you.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in General dentistry | Comments Off

What can you do to straighten crooked teeth With the help of City of London dentists?

November 20th, 2011

Have you ever visited your dentist to find out that you need corrective surgery for the proper alignment of your teeth and the contour of your face? Did you know that these features are some of the first things that people recognize and remember about you when they meet you? Your face can show expression, your personality, as well as your genetic traits, so when you suffer from crooked teeth, or if you have an overbite or underbite, you may need to see your dentist to have them corrected.

People who suffer from crooked teeth may also acquire difficulties with eating, including sensitivity and discomfort when chewing or biting their food. Depending on the severity of the condition, some may even struggle with speech difficulties, including a lisp and the inability to speak certain words. After your dentist X-rays your teeth, they can tell you what your options are. The use of braces and veneers are also highly recommended to correct these orthodontic conditions.

Braces are the most common technique for correcting teeth, which can include overbites, underbites, and crooked teeth. There are many types of braces that can be measured and applied to the mouth. Some are clear, while others are metallic and the style you choose will depend on your preferences, your needs and your budget or insurance plans.

Veneers are one of the quickest ways to fix your teeth, which makes the procedure one of the most desirable cosmetic dental treatments. After your dentist X-rays your mouth and creates a plan for you, they can then apply the porcelain or resin veneers for swift, effective orthodontic correction. As for choosing which is best for you, this will depend on the facts of your dental condition and what options your Dentist has given you. Nevertheless, whatever you choose can greatly impact your orthodontic health and cosmetic appearance.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Orthodontics | Comments Off

What Makes STB Social 6 Lingual Braces at City of London Dentist So Unique?

November 19th, 2011

STb Social 6 Lingual Braces are an excellent alternative to other long, expensive and uncomfortable orthodontic treatment. Most patients get frustrated with orthodontic treatment that goes on and on, however, STb Social 6 Braces can get the job done in just 6 weeks time. The uniqueness of this procedure lies in the fact that the braces are fixed to the back of the teeth, which means greater discretion for the patient. These braces are for people who have minimal crowding, so consult your dentist first to discuss if they are the best brace for you.

Advantages of STb Social 6 Lingual Braces

The major advantages of STb Social 6 Braces system is the shorter treatment time coupled with complete invisibility. Since the brace is specifically designed for treating anterior crowding or minimal spacing, the time taken for the treatment can be as little as 6-16 weeks. The discomfort is also minimal, because of the self-ligation system employed by lingual braces.

How is the fitting done?

The first step is to consult your dentist to check if the STB Social 6 Braces are a perfect solution for your dental condition. Once this is decided, impressions of your teeth will be taken and then braces will be crafted to specifically fit your mouth. Brackets and wires are then fixed to the back of your teeth for complete invisibility. Time required for the completion of the treatment can vary from patient to patient, but 6-16 weeks is the general time frame. Regular appointments with the dentist are necessary to ensure the proper progression of treatment.

Is it painful?

STb Social 6 Braces are designed to achieve results without pain or disruption to your daily life. Initially, the braces might feel slightly odd but patients get used to them in no time. The wires and brackets used are very fine and light, to decrease any further potential discomfort.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Lingual Braces | Comments Off

The importance of attending oral cancer screenings at City of London Dentists

November 18th, 2011

When thinking about cancer many forget about the dangers of oral cancer and even more forget that your dentist should be the first stop to diagnosis the disease.

Oral cancer usually starts off in the mouth as a small spot or sore, which are commonly white or red and can be located in any part of the mouth. If untreated, these sores can affect any area of your mouth, including your gum tissues, tongue, palate, lips and lining of the cheeks. Oral cancer also occurs more regularly in people who smoke and if you combine this with the consumption of alcohol you greatly increase your risk of developing the disease. Signs of oral cancer may include: colour changes in your oral tissue, difficulty with chewing, speaking, swallowing or moving your jaw and tongue, sores in the mouth that easily bleed and do not heal, lumps or thickening rough spots, small eroded areas in the mouth and pain, tenderness or numbness on the lips and inside of the mouth.

By visiting your dentist more regularly you can significantly decrease your chances of suffering with oral cancer, as oral cancer screenings are part of your routine dental examination. It is therefore important that you have regular full mouth check-ups, so your dentist can detect the early stage of cancer and treat it.  Some spots or sores located in the mouth may not be cancer, but it is always best to check just in case and your dentist will perform a brush test to ensure the sore or spot is not dangerous. If anything is found to be wrong with the sore then it will be removed in a separate procedure, but it is important to know that positive results from the brush test will be confirmed first by incisional biopsy and histology.

Remember it is important to visit your dentist for an oral cancer check-up, as on average only half of those diagnosed with oral cancer will survive past five years. However, oral cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer if found at an early stage.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Oral cancer | Comments Off

The first day of winter is soon to arrive. Will your teeth look as white as the snow?

November 16th, 2011

As we head towards winter at an ever-increasing pace we are unified by a hope that it is going to be a white winter. Unfortunately, nowadays a white Christmas is not a guarantee and we count ourselves lucky if there is 2cm of snow on the ground. The good news is that you can take heed of the dilemma and guarantee a white Christmas with a visit to the dentist.

You can make your teeth as white as freshly laid snow this year by receiving a professional teeth-whitening treatment. Today there are amazing techniques that are virtually painless with great results and for the most impressive results people often opt for laser teeth whitening. The procedure is painless and can dramatically improve the shades of your teeth. Most procedures can be completed in just one hour. The procedure requires no bleach and the results can last for up to a year. By using a combination of high oxygen whiting solutions and laser technology your teeth can be 8 shades lighter in just one session.

There are also a multitude of teeth beaching kits that are available in shops and salons and the technology in this area has also improved dramatically over recent years. These kits are much cheaper than the laser option; however, they don’t provide the same intensely white results or last as long.

So treat your smile to a white Christmas this year. You may still see the results the same time next year and at least you know something will be white during the festive season.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Teeth whitening | Comments Off

The benefits of modern digital X-rays at City of London dentists

November 14th, 2011

The traditional way of producing a dental x-ray may nearly be over, as digital x-rays are proving to be much more effective and safe.

For many years when an x-ray was needed, either the dentist or their assistant would place a wooden or cotton block into the patient’s mouth and the x-rays are then taken. The x-rays take some time to develop and are then viewed with the use of a light box.

The latest digital x-ray technology gives the dentist a number of advantages, including saving time on dental appointments, due to the quick production of the images. They are also more eco friendly.

The new digital technology now gives the dentist and the patient the ability to see the x-ray very quickly on a computer screen, which also provides much better clarity from a diagnostic perspective.

The new technology also enables the dentist to enhance the digital images, in order to concentrate on certain areas of concern and allow the patient to see what is happening inside their mouth. The new technology can also help detect tooth decay at a much earlier stage, which allows the dentist to treat cavities quickly and successfully before they can develop.

Digital x-rays are also much more beneficial to the patient in other ways. Not only can they now see why they are being given a certain treatment and get their x-rays quicker, but they will also be exposed to less radiation. The new technology has exposed patients to 80% less radiation than older technology.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in General dentistry | Comments Off
« Older Entries

Why Choose Us?

  • You want high quality dentistry
  • You want your dentist close to work
  • You want flexible opening hours
  • You want a corporate discount

Dentist Referrals

Location Map

Latest News

Awards

We have updated our cookie policy to reflect new guidelines. I agree I want to learn more