Posts tagged “tooth decay”

Hidden Dangers of Fruit Juice to People from London

March 24th, 2012

Fruit juices come in all colours and flavours under the sun! Some contain actual fruit while others are made with a mixture of chemicals and sugars to mimic the natural taste. Either way, fruit juice contents may be harmful to the dental health of clients from London and the rest of the UK.

What fruit juices contain

Fruit juices have high concentrations of sugar, some natural and some not, like Aspartame. Acid levels in fruit juices are also high, particularly in citric-type juices like orange, lemonade and grape juice. For example, each 250ml Ribena contains 26.3g or 29 percent sugars. Robertson’s Fruit and Barley label promotes no added sugar, but ingredients reveal sweeteners, Aspartame and Saccharin, with acids – both Citric and Malic, which reveals how difficult it is to keep damaging ingredients out of our diets.

Consuming fruit juices in regular quantities, combined with other acid and sugar-containing products like chocolate, cakes and other kinds of yummy things, can push levels way over the healthy mark and be particularly damaging to teeth and overall health.

Tooth decay, tooth erosion and discolouration

Research shows that fruit juices high in sugars and acids can be more damage than other erosive chemicals. Children suffering tooth decay and erosion are on the rise due to unhealthy fruit juice consumption. The acid wears away the enamel of the teeth, causing decay and erosion that can lead to broken and infected teeth. Another knock-on effect includes tooth discolouration. People with poor dental health often have associated health conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

Managing fruit juice consumption and dental health

Ways to manage the damaging effects of dental health are to:

  • Get advice from a dietician or dentist.
  • Monitor the consumption of fruit juice.
  • Moderate the intake of acid and sugar high foods and drinks.
  • Adhere to dental and medical advice.
  • Have regular dental check-ups and teeth cleaning.
  • Follow-through on your dental care plan.
  • Practise proper dental hygiene at home.

Routine Dental Visits at Your City of London Dentist to Keep Your Oral Health In Check

October 24th, 2011

We all know that our teeth are probably one of the most important parts of our bodies – Why not when they are the key element to a dazzling smile, and who doesn’t want one of those? But, in order to make sure that your smile is perfect you should have a regular check-up, because even though your smile may look good to you there may be serious underlying problems. These can have a serious effect on the teeth and ruin your smile later on.

The routine dental visit

When you have finished eating plaque starts to build up on the teeth within 15 minutes. If this is not removed thoroughly and effectively then this can lead to tooth decay, which will flourish if not treated correctly.

Tooth decay itself is the most common of all disorders and, believe it or not, is second only to the cold. It is caused due to the acid of the plaque left on the teeth liquefying the enamel and this then leads to cavities (holes) in the teeth, which result in tooth decay. These cavities can be painless and remain undetected at first but can result in the nerve and blood vessels in the tooth being destroyed. Ultimately, it can result in the loss of your tooth and a great deal of pain.

Prevention

If you go for regular dental check-ups then this can be avoided, because cavities can be detected in their early stages during a routine check-up, as they may show up on x-rays before they are even detectable to the naked eye.

There are other issues as well, such as periodontitis and gingivitis, which can occur by not treating your teeth properly; you may not even be aware of them until it is too late. So make sure you make regular visits to your dentist to keep your teeth in check, because you don’t want to lose that wonderful smile now do you?

Your London dentist looks at some of the foods that are bad for your teeth

September 21st, 2011

Good oral hygiene is a really effective means of staving off decay, but a bad diet could undo all your hard work. Certain foods can be very harmful for teeth and eating them on a regular basis could increase the risk of oral health diseases. Foods to avoid include:

Sugary foods

Sugar can be very harmful for the teeth and gums. When you eat foods that have high sugar content, the sugar reacts with the bacteria present in plaque and this can then lead to decay. When the sugar reacts with the bacteria, harmful plaque acids are formed, which attack the protective enamel surfaces of the teeth, leaving the dentin portion of the tooth exposed and vulnerable. Acid attacks weaken the enamel for around one hour. Examples of foods that are high in sugar include sweets, cakes, biscuits, chocolate and fizzy drinks.

Acidic foods

Acidic foods can have a detrimental effect on the enamel of the teeth, as they can contribute to acid erosion, which occurs when acid attacks the enamel of the tooth. Enamel is a very hard tissue, but it is not a living tissue, which means that it cannot be replaced or regenerated in the body. This means that once the enamel is worn or damaged it cannot be reproduced and the tooth will be susceptible to decay. Acid erosion often causes sensitivity, as the dentin portion of the tooth, which contains the living tissue (the nerves and the blood vessels), becomes exposed. Sensitivity usually causes pain when you eat or drink something very hot or cold.

Eating habits

Dental experts are eager to stress that the frequency of eating or drinking sugary or acidic foods and drinks is as important as the quantity you eat. The teeth can only withstand a limited number of acid attacks; so if you do fancy something sweet, try to restrict your intake to meal times. Snacking, grazing and sipping on sugary drinks throughout the day will mean that the teeth are under constant attack. As the enamel is weakened for an hour after eating or drinking something sugary or acidic, it is important that you do not brush your teeth during this time period, as brushing weakened enamel could cause further damage. Instead, you should wait at least an hour before brushing.

Set your teeth straight with Invisalign at London City Dentists

May 13th, 2011

Improve your smile with the treatment everyone’s been talking about with the experienced clinicians at London City dentists.

With people’s lifestyles getting busier and more hectic, it’s hard to find the time – and money – to search out a procedure both discreet and effective that will fit in with your daily routine. But the search is over, thanks to the innovative technology of Invisalign.  Used by over 32 million people the world over, the Santa Clara manufacturer has helped design the perfect aligners for the perfect smile – and courtesy of its transparent appearance, no one has to know you’re having this treatment other than yourself and your dentist.

Straight teeth don’t just mean a great smile, but great health.  Crooked teeth are harder to clean, and are also one of the primary factors of decay and other dental issues. With at least 50 per cent of patients experiencing tooth decay whilst wearing fixed braces, the Invisalign technology makes for an easier and more hygienic form of treatment – allowing the user the option to remove their aligners as and when they wish to.

The average timeline of treatment lasts from about 6 months to just over a year.  After consulting with your orthodontist, impressions of your teeth will be recorded along with X-rays that are then sent off to Align Technology, USA.  Through the use of computer simulation, a series of aligners gradually correcting your teeth into a straight position will be produced – where you will then be required to wear them over a prescribed amount of time.  You will need to work through the sets every two weeks and, once your teeth are straightened, will require the use of a retainer.  But again this will be clear and removable, ensuring complete flexibility and freedom.

Looking for a London dentist? City of London dentists are here to help.

Get the celebrity treatment with Invisalign, where having a Hollywood smile won’t break the bank.  Talk to London City dentists for more information, where our professional orthodontists will be happy to guide you through the process.

Root Canal done right at your London City dentist

April 25th, 2011

A root canal infection is not simply caused by decay and lack of adequate dental care as with many other dental related issues (although that is a common reason!); other reasons are in some cases actually old fillings. The old filling shrinks over a large period of time and the decay begins underneath the filling. Two other causes are when people grind teeth, creating fractures which lets bacteria into the nerves, and when physical trauma occurs such as banging your teeth and damaging the nerves of the tooth.

The treatment

The treatment is actually much simpler than a lot of people realise. It will usually take either one or two visits. The patient is firstly given anaesthetic before the tooth is drilled into in order to reach the nerves and blood vessels in the centre of the tooth. Any of these nerves and blood vessels that have been damaged by invading bacteria is then removed and the now empty root canal is cleaned, filled and sealed. The tooth in question reflects the number of visits that will be needed. Some teeth have multiple root canals and as such may take numerous visits. Most dentists will do root canal treatment, although having the treatment redone is more complex and as such you may be directed to an endodontist, a dentist who specialises in root canals.

Will there be any issues after the treatment?

The only side effect you may feel will be pain and discomfort after the anaesthetic wears off. In this case there is nothing wrong with simply using pain killers that can be bought over the counter. There is also a small chance that the tooth as operated on may have a slight change in colour. This is quite uncommon but, if it does happen, this usually means that extra treatment is needed.

It is rare for people to notice any lasting effects from the treatment, aside from the pain which is only short term. It is advisable to go to see the dentist that performed the operation around a year afterwards to check on the progress.

Tooth loss advice with London city dentists

March 2nd, 2011

Let London City dentists offer you professional advice on the facts of tooth loss

Losing a tooth as a child may not seem daunting, as you knew it was going to grow back – as well as get a present under your pillow courtesy of the tooth fairy. But teeth loss in adulthood sadly is no fairytale ending.

Looking after your oral health is more than just brushing your teeth and flossing; it’s about regular check-ups with your dentist to ensure your mouth is in good working condition. Rotting teeth, gum disease – these ailments can be prevented as long as you visit the dentist at least every six months. The secret is not to simply clean – but ‘keep’ clean. Getting into a daily routine and maintaining tip top teeth doesn’t just mean you’re looking after your teeth, but your teeth are looking after you.

However at the first sign of poor oral health, such as painful teeth, make an appointment to see your dentist immediately. Whilst you may have dental products at home that could alleviate your symptoms, your dentist is the expert and will have tools (such as X-rays) to help determine the problem. Not only will you receive professional treatment, but you can talk to your dentist about changing or improving your dental knowledge.

But remember – when it comes to tooth loss, it’s not an overnight problem. This sort of matter is an ongoing problem, which is why it is imperative that excellent oral hygiene is practiced daily and efficiently.

Looking for a London dentist? City of London dentists are here to help.

Let London City dentists be your modern day tooth fairy, and work their magic on your dental future.

Witness the digital age at your London City dentist

February 4th, 2011

When you look back over the course of your life, there are some objects which seem to have always been there.

The television, internet and even the radio are relatively modern day examples of this. Imagine life without the internet? Whatever did we do before it? The same which predates nearly all of the aforementioned is the X-Ray.

Ever since Wilhelm Roentgen discovered the X-Ray in 1895, they have been in common use and still hold the same marvel as they did back in the days when Queen Victoria controlled a quarter of the globe with her Empire.

Fast forward to the 21st Century with our 3D TV’s and computers and X-Ray technology has advanced as well. With an increasing amount of products available at the moment, one particular example of this is the “DEXIS Platinum Perfect Size”. With the X-Ray machine actually inserted inside the mouth of the patient, this X-Ray method not only allows for the dentist to see detailed X-Rays of their patient but it can be done in the comfort of the traditional dentist’s chair within a short space of time. Oh, how the times of Roentgen have changed but for the better.

The main difference between traditional X-Rays and digital versions is that they can be adjusted to what the dentist wants. If they decide to concentrate on a particular area, they can focus on this which can help provide a better insight into the treatment which could aid, not hinder, their patient.

Unlike with traditional X-Rays, the digital images can be safely stored and multiple copies can be made. Not only are Digital X-Rays used for dentistry reasons but also at airports as well. We live in dangerous times and with the correct use of digital X-Rays this can help combat possible threats.

Digital X-Rays gives you, as the saying goes, more bang for your buck. Roentgen would have been proud of what has been made of his discovery.

Looking for a London dentist? City of London dentists are here to help.

If you want to take advantage of this advanced technology, and are in need of some tender loving care and attention for your oral health, then visit us today.

London City dentists diagnose and treat tooth decay

January 7th, 2011

Tooth decay diagnosed and effectively treated by London City dentists

Simple activities like eating, drinking and talking rely on having a full set of teeth in place.  Yet the health of your teeth is constantly placed at risk by the acids released by the food you eat.  Taking simple steps to guarantee your oral hygiene will help in ensuring that tooth decay is not allowed to happen.

The main reason for tooth decay is a build up of plaque.   Plaque is a substance that forms on teeth after you have eaten sugary or starchy foods.  This attacks the enamel which protects the tooth and can eventually break it down and lead to sensitivity.  In worst cases, the actual nerves inside the tooth are interfered with, which can be very painful indeed.  Cavities might begin to form, which are small holes in the tooth.  If these are allowed to progress then the tooth itself can begin to break down and might ultimately be lost.

Pursuing an adequate home dental hygiene regime is vital to stop tooth decay.  Brush and floss at least twice a day and again if required after sugary or starchy foods.  The bristles on your tooth brush clear away plaque and the fluoride tooth paste strengthens enamel against future plaque attacks.

As well as taking good care of your teeth at home, you should be sure to visit your dentist every six months so that your mouth can be thoroughly checked over by a trained expert.  If you experience undue sensitivity of the teeth, this should also be reported to your dentist as it might be an early sign of tooth decay.

Looking for a cosmetic dentist? City of London dentists are here to help.

Talk to your London City dentist today if you need any more information about tooth decay and how to prevent it.

Liverpool Street London dentists offer effective diagnosis of gum disease

January 3rd, 2011

Gum disease diagnosed and treated by Liverpool Street London dentists

Your gums are a vital part of your mouth and as such it is very important to keep them healthy.  Yet they seem to receive less attention than teeth.  In fact gum disease is a greater cause of tooth loss than dental decay itself, proof that it is imperative you look after your gums as carefully as you do your teeth.

The most common form of gum disease is called gingivitis and many of us will suffer from it in our lifetimes.  It reveals itself with redness to the gums which ought to be pink.  Gingivitis might make eating and drinking food and liquid which is particularly hot or cold a little painful as your gums will be made more sensitive.  It is easily avoided by pursuing the recommended home dental hygiene routine of brushing at least twice a day for three minutes and flossing.

It is important that gingivitis is stopped in its tracks because, although not particularly harmful in itself, it can lead to worse.  Periodontitis is what might happen if gingivitis is left to progress.  This is a nasty condition where the bones holding the teeth in place become inflamed and tooth loss can ensue.

Dentists can prescribe antibiotics to treat gum disease but it is more likely that you will just be advised to tighten up your home oral hygiene routine.  Be sure to pursue a healthy and balanced diet and avoid activities such as smoking and drinking alcohol regularly to excess as these can compromise the good functioning of your mouth.

Looking for a cosmetic dentist? City of London dentists are here to help

Be on the look out for redness  and swelling in the gums, bad breath and odd, metallic tastes and be sure to visit your Liverpool Street London dentist every six months to have the best chance of avoiding gum disease.

Bishopsgate London dentists offer dental check ups to ensure oral hygiene

December 20th, 2010

Safeguard health of your mouth with dental check ups at Bishopsgate London dentists

Having a healthy mouth has so many benefits that we take for granted.  The ability to eat, drink and talk without pain are just three of them.  Being able to smile with confidence is another reason that keeping your mouth in good health gives us.  To ensure that your mouth stays healthy it is vital that you allow a trained, dental professional to examine it thoroughly at regular intervals.

The complications that can arise from not keeping your mouth healthy can be painful and might require invasive treatment.  Allowing gum disease to progress, for example, can lead to the bones holding your teeth in becoming inflamed and then the teeth themselves falling out.

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene begins at home with you being sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day for around three minutes and flossing too.  This will go a long way towards keeping your mouth healthy but it must be done in tandem with visits to your dentist for dental check ups.

At a dental check up your dentist will examine your mouth thoroughly for signs of tooth decay, gum disease and plaque build up.  Modern dentists are also trained to spot the early signs or oral cancer, a potentially fatal condition but one that is treatable if spotted early on.  Your dentist will be able to offer you expert advice in oral health conditions that you may have and then suggest the necessary treatments.

Looking for a cosmetic dentist? City of London dentists are here to help

If you feel anxious about visiting the dentist it is vital that you overcome it so that your mouth can be examined by the person who is the most expert: your dentist.  To arrange a dental check up, contact your Bishopsgate London dentist today.

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