Cosmetic Dentistry at Midland Smiles Centres

While the health of your teeth is absolutely essential, the way your teeth look is also something that can be very important. The aesthetic value of teeth can sometimes make a person more confident, and here at Midland Smile Centres, we are able to help teeth look their best. With various forms of treatment available, you might want to consider cosmetic dentistry with MSC now, and look forward to a new year with a perfect smile.

One treatment on offer at Midland Smile Centres is white fillings. Whilst being able to provide you with the function that ordinary filling do, white fillings have the added advantage of being much more pleasant to look at. An alternative to grey or silver fillings, white fillings have a natural appearance and avoid making a person look older or feel self-conscious when smiling or laughing.

If you would like to remove the stains from your teeth, then Airflow may be the treatment for you. A specially designed treatment, Airflow polishing utilises a jet of air, water and sodium bicarbonate to clean and polish your teeth. It can reach between your teeth and can remove the build-up of plaque. Offering a better clean than a normal scale and polish and more comfortable for the patient receiving it, Airflow can be effective in making your teeth less sensitive, too.

To make a clear difference to the appearance of your smile, opting for teeth whitening is an obvious choice. At MSC, we can provide you with special teeth whitening trays made specifically to fit your teeth. These trays should be to be filled with whitening gel. They will then need to be worn for a few hours every day. Given the extent of discolouration of the patient’s teeth, the treatment may need to be increased. Our highly experienced dentists will decide whether home whitening is suitable for you. This form of teeth whitening will only affect natural teeth, and can be stopped as soon as you are satisfied with the results.

For teeth that are discoloured or have an irregular shape, veneers can be used. Veneers are also suitable for teeth that have suffered decay or damage, and they are applied when crowns are not needed. Usually made from porcelain, veneers are placed over teeth, and in contrast to crowns, they do not require you to have large parts of your healthy tooth removed. The impact of having veneers fitted is a definite improvement to the appearance of your smile, and in most cases, only one or two veneers can help you achieve this aesthetic enhancement.

The treatment available at Midland Smile Centres can be accompanied by sedation. This is perfect for those who are anxious about having dental treatment or entering a clinic. Our intravenous sedation (via a vein in the arm) will make you drowsy and unaware of treatment, but still enables you to cooperate with the dentist.

If cosmetic improvements to your teeth are something that you are interested in, then it might be worth getting in touch with Midland Smiles Centres to find out more about the treatments we offer. Our highly skilled and experienced dentists are sure to help you achieve the smile that you desire.

Emergency Dental Treatment

Midland Smile Centres are always available to provide help with any dental issues you have that need immediate attention. We can be reached at any time on our emergency treatment number, which can be found here: emergency treatment. Additionally, you do not need to be a patient of Midlands Smile Centres to have access to emergency treatment.

Another brilliant thing to be aware of in regards to MSC emergency dental treatment is that getting to us is quicker than making your way to the Dental Hospital in emergency situations. This is largely due to the fact that we have a number of practices, and they are situated around Birmingham, which means that finding a dentist near you shouldn’t be a problem. We at Midland Smiles Centres are confident that we can provide you with the dental assistance you need more quickly than the Dental Hospital.*

Apart from this being reassuring and positive news, especially for those suffering from problems that require immediate dental assistance, it is also great for the chances of successful treatment. The quicker a problem can be attended to, the more quickly it can be resolved.

It is worth taking a moment to think about emergency dental treatment and why it may be necessary, as there are a number of ways in which your teeth can suffer and thus necessitate emergency treatment. Some of these ways or the knock-on effect they can have may not be obvious, so it is certainly a good idea to learn about the dental issues that may arise, and how we can help you in these urgent situations.

One major reason for seeking immediate dental assistance is when you have had one of your teeth knocked-out. In these cases, Midland Smile Centres dental staff will be ready to give you the help you need. However, there are a couple of steps you can take that will be helpful in ensuring that the tooth is successfully re-inserted. After your tooth has been knocked-out, it is advisable to put the tooth into a container of milk and remember to take it with you to the dentist. Also, refrain from cleaning or washing the tooth.

Sometimes you may have a tooth that is loose. With the assistance of one of experienced dentists, this tooth may be also be re-inserted successfully, so getting in touch promptly via our emergency line is a wise decision. You may not realise though that unless you are stopping the tooth from falling out, touching a partially dislodged tooth is not recommended. It is a much better idea to support the tooth rather than using pressure to hold it in place.

Be aware as well, that lost teeth are another reason to seek help. This is due to the fact that the wound that is left after the tooth has been lost can become infected, possibly resulting in abscesses and further complications. Seeking assistance for this problem is especially important if you have plans to have a dental implant.

Some problems may seem less urgent, and you may believe that they do not require the attention of a dentist due to their seemingly minor nature. Tooth ache is a dental issue that may seem small but will actually require the immediate attention of an MSC dentist via our emergency number. If you experience a tooth ache which lasts for more than 30 minutes after taking painkillers and cleaning and flossing between your teeth, you should contact us.

Another issue with your teeth that could perhaps be overlooked or ignored but MSC should be alerted to immediately, is the formation of a lump on your gum line beside the root of your teeth. It may be that this lump is an abscess, and without treatment, it could result in tooth loss.

Other problems that you need to contact Midland Smile Centres about on our emergency treatment number include: a broken tooth or filling - this can lead to additional tooth or filling damage as well as tooth loss if it goes untreated; a broken crown - this can result in untreatable decay in the root of the tooth, abscesses and eventual tooth loss if you do not receive treatment.

Make sure that you are always aware of the symptoms related to emergency dental problems and ensure you respond quickly in emergency situations. Failure to do so may lead to further complications. If you have any dental issues that require immediate attention, call our emergency treatment number.

*assumes Midland Smile Centre practices are closer to patients than Birmingham Dental Hospital and patients call during practice opening hours.

How Your Dentist in Birmingham Can Meet Your Needs

Without question, maintaining the standard of your teeth is important. We at Midland Smile Centres understand this well, and as a result, we take every step to ensure that your dental needs as an individual are catered for.

First of all, we are based in several locations around Birmingham so that it is never difficult for you to get to us. We have seven MSC practices dotted around the city: Alcester, Handsworth Wood, Sheldon, Northfield, West Heath, Kings Heath and Selly Oak. So whatever it is that you need us for, we shouldn’t be too hard to reach.  

There are a number of reasons why you might need to get in touch with us or come to visit one of our practices. There are times when emergency treatment is required. In these instances, a same day emergency service is available, and this can be accessed by registered as well as unregistered patients. Aside from emergencies, there are a range of treatments that we can provide in order to improve your dental standards. These treatments vary from orthodontics- encompassing an array of brace types- to dentalimplants, cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening, white fillings and porcelain veneers, as well as other treatment types. It may be worth knowing that Midland Smile Centres also offer facial aesthetic treatments.

These types of treatment can be necessary for different reasons. Orthodontic treatment can be used to rectify the problem of teeth being crooked or crowded inside a person’s mouth. Bridges and dentures on the other hand are suitable for those that have missing teeth. Another type of treatment we offer is root canal fillings, which are needed when the root of your tooth has become extremely damaged or has been afflicted by decay.

Patients who are considering having treatment but are nervous about having the procedure will be pleased to know that Midland Smiles Centres will do their best to calm and reassure anxious patients. Also, if requested, sedation can be provided at various MSC sites.

When it comes to ensuring you receive the treatment you want, you may wish to first ask some questions. For any queries about the treatment you are interested in or to learn more about what is involved, free consultations may be available, and the helpful staff at MSC can be easily reached by phone. Alternatively, you can send a message via their website.  

Another factor that is part of planning for treatment, is cost. With MSC there are no hidden costs, and with the Smile Plan, treatment is made more affordable. And, for treatment costing £500 or more, we are able to offer you finance options as well.

Take the time to read through what we offer at Midland Smile Centres and you will see that we are perfectly able to meet your dental needs. Our dentists in Birmingham are highly skilled and experienced and our staff are always ready to help you. Put the standard of your teeth first and choose Midland Smile Centres today.

Invisible Braces Vs Tooth-Coloured brace systems

Orthodontic treatment comes in different forms, each offering different benefits to patients. And when it comes to choosing treatments that straighten your teeth, invisible braces and tooth-coloured brace systems are prime choices. It is advisable to give careful thought to what is available and how it can make the improvement that you are looking for. 

Invisible braces utilise aligners that are made with a clear material. They can be used as a contemporary alternative to traditional braces and will enhance your teeth by making use of a series of aligners that will gradually shift your teeth into the desired position over the course of treatment.  Prior to the start of treatment, a 3D modelling system will be introduced in order to create a plan that demonstrates how the stages of the process will work and the way they will shape your smile.

In addition to being as efficient as traditional braces, invisible braces are wonderfully discrete due to the fact that they are clear. This aesthetically pleasing option for straightening your teeth is made from moulds of your teeth, meaning that they will have a custom fit that ensures comfort during wearing. Furthermore, this type of brace can be removed, so that when it is time to eat they can simply be taken out. The advantage of being able to remove invisible braces also means you can clean them, making sure that both they and your teeth stay hygienic.

Tooth-coloured brace systems will be used in a course of treatment that takes, on average, between 4 and 9 months only. As a result of tooth-coloured brace systems’ natural look, you will not need to worry about the not-so-pleasant visual impact that traditional braces would have had on your smile.

The type of treatment that straightens your teeth in the shortest amount of time possible, tooth-coloured brace systems are created using a mould technology that is similar to that used for invisible braces. Due to the fact that these braces are specifically made to fit your teeth exactly, you can be sure that they will be comfortable as well as effective. 

Having teeth that are in need of being straightened is a problem that can be corrected with modern methods of treatment that offer various benefits. Both tooth-coloured brace systems and invisible braces are able to rectify teeth that are not straight using impressive forms of technology. This gives you the opportunity to have comfortable, effective treatment that leaves you with teeth that you will be completely satisfied with. Investing a little of your time into learning about the advantages of these treatments is really the best way to approach your journey towards achieving that new and improved smile.  

At Midland Smiles Centres, our experienced dentists are available to talk to you about what is the right kind of treatment for straightening your teeth. Get in touch with your nearest Midland Smile Centres today to book a free consultation with a dentist for orthodontic braces, or find out more with our online orthodontic form.

Improve your quality of life with a Dental Implant

Dental implants are a recommended solution for those who have lost teeth. They are also available in different forms, so it is a very good idea to take some time to consider which option is best for you. Continue reading to learn what the various types of dental implants can offer you as well as the process that is involved, giving you the chance to make an informed decision regarding this dental treatment.

If you are in the position of having lost teeth, it may be comforting to hear that implants are versatile, and that they are generally reported to leave the patient with the kind of smile that they can are happy with. Dental implants are made-up of a natural-looking false tooth and a titanium supporting rod which is inserted into the jawbone, replacing the root. At Midland Smile Centres you can expect a treatment that makes use of X-Ray imaging, allowing our dentist to locate precisely where to put the implant. The entire procedure at MSC is conducted without the use of a scalpel, and can be finished after only two visits and within as little as three months.

Implant treatment by Dr Suresh Chohan (Selly Oak)

As a result of the MSC’s no scalpel technique, the treatment for dental implants will leave you with reduced pain, bleeding and swelling, in addition to a shorter time for healing to occur. Following the completion of your treatment, you will most likely discover a renewed enjoyment of eating.               

Another option for your consideration, is denture implants. Denture implants are a more contemporary option. They are available as fixed or removable dentures, and are able to function in a manner more like your natural teeth than regular dentures are able to. This effect is achieved via the fitting of dental implants into the jawbone.     

The advantage of having denture implants is that they provide you with a way to avoid problems that ordinary dentures can present, such as the fact that they can move which makes it difficult to eat certain types of food. Plus, they can help lessen the reduction in the jawbone, which is a natural consequence of tooth loss.

You may also wish to contemplate having implant supported bridges. Implant supported bridges utilise implants for support, as opposed to traditional dental bridges which utilise a minimum of two healthy teeth for support. Amongst the various benefits to you is the fact that implant supported bridges have the capability of enduring for much longer than traditional bridges.

When it comes to having dental implants, it is always advisable to choose an experienced dentist with a history of successful dental implants procedures and not be tempted by low cost treatments. Midland Smile Centres boasts a collection of seasoned dentists, some of whom have over 25 years’ experience of performing successful dental implant procedures.      

Of the several choices of dental implants available to you, all are sure to bring you an improvement to various aspects of your life, which could mean better eating, or enjoying a more pleasant smile on a day-to-day basis. Once you have considered what each treatment involves, and which type of implant is best suited to you, you may be ready to make a decision that benefits your life. Contact us today and book your free consultation for dental implants. 

The Path to Perfect Teeth: Which treatment is right for you?

Getting in touch with Midland Smiles Centres opens the door to many different types of treatments. All of these treatments serve different purposes and it is worthwhile learning about what each of them entails. By selecting the treatment or treatments that are best for you, you can rectify problems you may have with your teeth. As a result, you will be taking steps to ensuring that imperfect or unhealthy teeth are a thing of the past.

First of all, it is best to ask yourself what it is that you need. For example, many people discover that they have crowded teeth, or teeth that are not straight. This is when orthodontic treatment involving braces becomes important. At Midland Smiles Centres you will find traditional braces to assist with this problem, and you will also find Damon braces. These are an innovative and comfortable brace that utilises gentle pressure in an effort to manoeuvre your teeth. Other options in this area to be considered are the use of Invisalign braces, which are nearly invisible to the eye and removable for easy eating and cleaning, and Six Months Smiles, which are discrete tooth-coloured braces that will straighten teeth in an average of 4-9 months.

Aside from the general dentistry that MSC offers, including oral surgery (extractions), root canal treatment and fillings, you may feel that bridges, crowns or dentures - coming under the banner of ‘Restorative Dentistry’- are just the thing to provide what your teeth are currently lacking. Bridges are ideal for replacing missing teeth, and do so by attaching permanently to natural teeth around the gap left by those that have been lost. Crowns are artificial caps that are placed over the remaining parts of a prepared tooth to make it strong, while dentures are replacement teeth that are available in different types, Dental Implants are excellent quality false teeth that can fill in gaps in your smile. 

Sometimes however, the reason for contemplating having dental treatments is motivated by the desire to simply improve your appearance. Midland Smile Centres are ready to meet the various requirements you may have by providing a selection of cosmetic treatments. MSC gives you the opportunity to have fillings that are natural in their appearance and, for better looking teeth within the convenience and comfort of your own home, teeth whitening kits are also available. This option requires you to visit one of our practices where one of your expert dentists will give your teeth an assessment of their suitability for these kits, before you are ready for the whitening trays that will be crafted to fit your teeth. Trays are filled with whitening gel and they can be worn for several hours each day, until you decide that the treatment is complete. For another method of achieving whiter teeth, the airflow treatment is available. This form of treatment works by blasting a pressurised blend of air, water and sodium at your teeth in order to polish and clean them effectively, and is arguably better than a standard scale and polish. In addition, veneers are available to enhance your smile. Thin, tooth-coloured and usually made from porcelain, veneers are placed over irregular shaped or discoloured teeth for an aesthetically pleasing look.   

Trying to attain perfection in regards to your teeth isn’t easy, but for those who are wanting to make improvements, from the purely cosmetic to the procedures that are more necessary, Midland Smiles Centres is here to help. Weighing up the potential benefits and the cost of the available treatments is something that you will no doubt be doing once you have properly absorbed all of the information and details pertaining to the treatments on offer. However, with a range of options available and services provided by experienced professionals, you are sure to make the dental decision that caters to your wants and needs.                     

Oral and Kidney Health Linked?

Your oral health is very important for your body, it’s possible that your general health and well being could be severely affected by a lack of oral hygiene. Keeping your mouth clean and healthy means you not only avoid oral problems such as cavities, gum disease or losing teeth, but you could also avoid a number of other serious health problems.

The Link

Recent discoveries have strengthened the link between dental health and general health and well being. Now studies are showing the link between periodontal (gum) disease and kidney problems. These studies have shown that people who have gum disease are not only more likely to suffer from kidney disease, they also have a higher mortality rate than those who suffer from kidney disease alone. People who suffer from kidney disease are also more likely to experience a number of oral health problems.

Studies

One such study looked at gum health and kidney function indicators in a group of around 4000 adults aged over 40. Taking into account factors such as people who smoke and also their age, it was shown that those who had lost teeth had a much higher chance of suffering from chronic kidney disease than those who still had their natural teeth.

Those who suffer from kidney disease could also suffer from oral health problems. These problems include tooth loss, inflammation in both the mouth and salivary glands, gum disease, larger amounts of plaque, chewing problems, bone loss in the jaw, bad breath and a dry mouth.  

Another study examined data from around 14,000 patients, and showed that in 10 years the mortality rates of those who suffered from gum disease and chronic kidney disease was 41%, compared to 31% of those who suffered from chronic kidney disease alone. This is quite significant, if it is ascertained that this is a causal association then by controlling and treating gum disease it might be possible to improve the health of those with kidney disease.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is a very common problem, three out of every four adults in the UK over the age of 35 suffer from it, and it is the leading cause of tooth loss. A common symptom of gum disease is bleeding and/or sore gums during your daily tooth brushing. Other symptoms which are normally indicators of the early stages being untreated include bad breath, unusual or unpleasant tastes, loose teeth or gum abscesses.

You can help avoid gum disease simply by maintaining good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day for about two minutes, using fluoride toothpaste and regular flossing. Regularly visiting your dentist means you can get the heads up on any signs of gum disease, and if there are any, you can start taking measures to ensure it doesn’t become a severe problem. Your dentist is the best tool you have for fighting off gum disease.

If you’ve already suffered from gum disease, you can restore your smile using one of our restorative treatments, such as Dental Implants or Denture Implants. These treatments not only fill the gap in your smile, they also can help reduce bone loss in your jaw due to missing teeth. Implant treatments aren’t only for people with gum disease, anyone who has lost teeth can have this treatment for a brilliant smile.

Midlands Smile Centres

Midlands Smile Centres is a dentist in Birmingham that offers Implant treatments and more. Call your local practice and talk to one of our friendly receptionists to book a check-up. We can check your dental health and if needed, we can discuss the plan for your treatment. 

Dental Implants vs Dentures

When it comes to making the decision between having dentures or having implants, it is advisable to first consider the potential advantages and disadvantages that either can bring you.

Advantages of Dentures

Dentures are a suitable option for those conscious of the financial impact replacing missing teeth will have. This is due to the fact that dentures are not only cost-effective, but are available on the NHS as well. In contrast to this, having dental implants can be expected to be costly.

The dentures of today can offer you comfort when worn, and they boast a natural appearance. 

Types of Dentures

Different types of dentures are also available to you.

The conventional full denture can be used following the removal of remaining teeth and the healing of tissues, while the immediate full denture is applied straight after the removal of remaining teeth. The third type, the partial denture, sits on a metal framework that fixes to your teeth. Anyone can have dentures, and, because they are custom-made inside a dental laboratory, you are sure to find dentures that suit you.   

Disadvantages of Dentures

It may be worth bearing in mind though, that initially an adjustment period with new dentures may be necessary. A feeling of awkwardness when wearing new dentures is not totally unlikely, while your eating and speaking might also be affected. Another difficulty that wearing dentures presents is that they may require rebasing, or may have to be remade or relined.

Advantages of Implants

Implants, on the other hand, afford you the opportunity to have replacement teeth with the kind of stability that conventional dentures cannot be expected to achieve. Implants are also appealing due to the fact that they are able to hold replacement teeth in the required position without necessitating the grinding down or preparation of other surrounding teeth. Plus, unlike dentures, implants are able to preserve the bone in the jaw. It is also true that implants are a sound option for individuals for whom conventional dentures and bridges are not comfortable or feasible, and they are capable of helping to maintaining the overall shape of your face, too.

Choosing the best option for you

Making the right choice for replacement teeth is a subjective one, governed by the needs of the individual as well as by what their bank balance is able to accommodate.

Besides the more practical matters, there is also the inevitable issue of cosmetic value. While the aesthetic impact of replacement teeth is significant, ultimately it is perhaps most important to carefully consider all factors and the possible changes made to your lifestyle.

With this in mind, it should perhaps be noted that it is implants that offer the stability and an overall natural quality that dentures are not quite able to provide. In addition, they do not need to be taken out frequently as dentures do, giving them a convenient edge which you are sure to appreciate.

The friendly staff at Midland Smile Centres are available to answer your questions and help you decide what is best for you. The MSC team are comprised of dedicated specialists based in multiple locations who are equipped with over 28 years of experience in dentures and dental implants and have performed over 5000 implant procedures.

To find out more about dentures and dental implants contact Midlands Smile Centres here.

Running and your Oral Health

Running is a popular way to stay in shape, especially when you can join running clubs or groups so you can add a more social side to your exercise. Of course, there’s also marathons and sponsored runs that you can take part in to add a more competitive element to it.

However, have you considered your dental health when planning your training? It’s not a surprise if you think that these subjects are unrelated, read on to find out why they’re not.

The Risks

While your body may be in excellent shape, this could come at the cost of your oral health. Studies have shown that there are two specific areas where oral health problems are likely to occur for athletes: having a dry mouth and the effects of sport-related nutrition.

Dry Mouth

If you’re keen on your sports and exercise, think about how your mouth feels during such activities. It’s likely that you’ll be breathing through your mouth, and because of this your mouth will dry up. In addition to this, you’re unlikely to be able to recover from a dry mouth as quickly as you would normally, due to a higher susceptibility to dehydration.

A dry mouth is a bigger problem than you might think. The risk of having gum disease increases, as well as tooth decay. Saliva is a great way of protecting your mouth, as it limits bacteria growth and helps clean any food debris and plaque in your mouth. Other problems relating to tasting and digesting foods also arise.

Nutrition

Properly planning your nutrition and hydration for your sports and exercise it a good way to make sure you get the energy you need without putting your oral health at risk. As most people who are into their fitness know, carbohydrates are your main source of energy. However, over-consumption of ‘bad’ carbohydrates can be detrimental to your oral health.

Sports drinks are quite popular however they too can be bad for your teeth. Although they can be helpful when recovering from long and strenuous activities, they are also acidic. This is a problem for the enamel on your teeth, as it can dissolve when exposed to too much acid. These drinks are also very sugary, which can cause tooth decay and other problems.

DON’T stop running

We’re not trying to scare you into not running. It’s likely that if you stop exercising you’ll run into other health problems, but there are ways you can enjoy your running and maintain a healthy smile. 

As long as you drink plenty of water before, during and after your exercise you can help mitigate a lot of the problems that can occur. It’s also important that you drink water before you get dehydrated instead of after. Of course, regular brushing and visits to your dentist can also help reduce a number of the problems that might occur.  

Long Term Problems

Sometimes these things don’t seem like an issue until you’re faced with cavities and gum disease yourself. If left untreated, these problems can develop into serious complications, including loss of teeth. Midlands Smile Centres does offer a number oftreatments to help rejuvenate your smile, including dental implants, bridges, crowns and dentures (including denture implants).

If you have any problems or questions regarding your oral health, you should arrange a check-up to see your local Midlands Smile Centres dentist so they can talk you through your queries. 

4 Helpful Tips to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity

Sensitive teeth can be very painful at times. It can take you completely off-guard when you’re enjoying your morning coffee, or indulging in some ice cream after dinner. Some of your favourite food and drinks can turn into unpleasant reminders that you have sensitive teeth. Unfortunately, the more sensitive your teeth get, the more things you’ll find that can cause pain.

Hope isn’t lost on you enjoying another ice cream though, as sensitive teeth are actually a fairly common problem. Not only is it common, but there are a number of things you can do to help reduce the sensitivity of your teeth. Find below four great tips for reducing sensitivity.

1. Make sure you’re not brushing too hard

Your routine care of your teeth is very important. If you’re suffering from sensitive teeth though, it is possible that you might be overzealous in your daily care. Brushing that is too firm or for too long can cause your gums to recede. This means that sensitive areas of your teeth are exposed.

Make sure you brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and use gentle circular motions. Also try and brush for 2 minutes. This is a good time to follow, as it makes sure you are brushing for long enough to help your oral hygiene, but not for so long that you cause problems.

2. Reduce the amount of acidic food and drink in your diet

Acidic foods and drinks are major causes in sensitive teeth. The acid in them can erode your tooth enamel, which leaves your teeth more sensitive. You should try and reduce the amount of things like soft drinks, sports or energy drinks, fruit juices and sour sweets in your diet.

3. Use a different type of toothpaste

There are many different types of toothpaste that you can buy, including whitening toothpaste. If you do use this type of toothpaste and suffer from sensitive teeth, it’s worth looking at any documentation that came with it. Some types of whitening toothpaste are known to be more abrasive than regular toothpaste, which could cause extra sensitivity.

4. Visit your local dentist

Sensitive teeth can be a sign of other problems, such as a cavity or that you are grinding your teeth at night, also sensitive teeth due to receding gums can be a sign of gum disease. Because of this, if you continue to suffer from sensitive teeth you should visit your dentist, so we can ascertain whether or not it is a serious problem.

Combating problems such as cavities or gum disease as early as possible is important, so you don’t suffer from any other problems. You don’t want to miss the early warning signs of sensitive teeth, and end up having to spend a lot more on treatments such as dental implants.

If you’re worried about your sensitive teeth, or have any other problems or concerns then you should contact your local Midlands Smile Centres and book a check-up. 

Invisalign vs Six Month Smiles

It’s important to choose the right orthodontic treatment for you, as different treatments have different benefits. There are a number of factors to consider when choosing what teeth straightening treatment to have. In this blog, we’ll cover two of our most popular orthodontic treatments: Invisalign and Six Month Smiles, what they consist of and also their own individual benefits.

What are they?

Invisalign is a modern alternative to traditional braces. They are often called ‘invisible braces’, this is due to the fact that the aligners are made of a clear material. Treatment involves several stages, using a series of slightly different aligners, with each aligner moving your teeth to give you your desired smile. Before treatment begins, a plan is made using the Invisalign 3D modelling system, allowing you to view each stage and how it will affect your teeth.

Six Month Smiles is a Cosmetic Braces System, involving a treatment length of on average between 4 to 9 months. This quick treatment length combined with the braces being tooth-coloured and hence discrete, makes it a popular treatment option for those who dislike how traditional braces look, and how long treatment can take.

Advantages of Invisalign

It goes without saying that the main advantage of Invisalign is having nearly invisible braces, whilst still being as effective as traditional braces. This means you can have orthodontic treatment without worrying about how your braces look. These clear aligners are also custom made for your teeth using moulds, allowing them to be both discrete and comfortable.

That’s not all, they are also removable! This makes eating and cleaning significantly easier than with other types of orthodontic treatment. Simply take off your braces before you eat, and put them back on after you’ve brushed your teeth. The same goes for when you clean your braces, just take them off and give both them and your teeth a thorough clean before putting them back on.

Advantages of Six Month Smiles

Six Month Smiles is the right treatment for those who’re looking to have straight teeth as quickly as possible. As stated before, the average time for this treatment is between 4 to 9 months, easily making it the fastest tooth straightening treatment available.

The braces are also tooth coloured, allowing them to blend in naturally with your teeth. Six Month Smiles uses a similar mould technology to Invisalign, so your braces are specifically made for your teeth. This means they are more discrete and comfortable.  

What's right for you

Now you know the advantages of both treatments, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision of what treatment is right for you. Put off by how long tradition braces take to correct your teeth? Six Month Smiles is likely to be the right treatment for you. Worried about how normal braces will look? With Invisalign no one will be able to tell if you’re wearing braces.

If you’re interested in having tooth straightening treatment, your dentist can talk you through your different options and what would be right for you. Contact your local Midlands Smile Centres and arrange a free consultation with your dentist for orthodontic braces, or use our online orthodontic form to find out more. 

10 Tips for Caring for your Braces

Wearing braces can be a nervous experience for many. However, more people are using Orthodontic treatment to correct their teeth than you may realise, so you can be sure that people will notice your smile, and not your braces. Caring for your braces doesn’t have to be hard, just by following these 10 tips you can ensure that you keep your mouth healthy and free of any problems.

1. Make sure you brush your teeth and braces after you eat

Regular brushing is the best method for a healthy mouth. Remember to remove all removable parts of the braces beforehand, including elastics, however don’t mess with the wires. Ensure you brush for at least two minutes, and that you brush from top to bottom and along the wires. One of the best practices is to clean your teeth half an hour after each meal.

2. Floss before you brush

Flossing can remove any errant bits of food from between your teeth, and clean between both your teeth and braces. Make sure you get between the wires and brackets of your braces, and that you floss every tooth – top to bottom, front to back!

3. Use mouthwash

Mouthwash can clean your mouth, making it both cleaner and more fresh. For best results, make sure you get a mouthwash that removes plaque.

4. Haven’t got a toothbrush?

If you find yourself without a toothbrush, thoroughly wash your mouth with water and brush your teeth as soon as you are able.

5. Limit yourself to foods that require little chewing

When you first get braces, your mouth can be sensitive. For the first couple of days, you should try and stick to softer foods so you don’t cause any damage. Foods such as soup or mashed potatoes are ideal.

6. Be careful when eating hard foods

Take extra care eating harder foods, as they can cause damage to your braces. Foods such as apples, candies and nuts should be consumed with care. You should also take care that you don’t chew on hard items such as pens and pencils.

7. Take care with sticky foods

Foods such as caramel, peanut butter and various sweets could cause damage to your braces. They can do this by pulling the wires off when you’re eating.

8. Avoid food and drink that could cause discolouration

Any food or drink that could stain your teeth can also stain your braces. Try and avoid things like tea and coffee.

9. Minimise your sugar intake

Avoiding sugary foods and drinks can do wonders for the health of your mouth, especially when you have braces which sugary foods and drinks can get caught in, and allow the sugar to start damaging your teeth. Things like sweets, cola and even drinks like squash contains sugars, and by minimising your intake of these items your mouth becomes much healthier.

10. Raise any problems with your dentist

Your dentist will be able to help you with any problems you may encounter, so make sure you visit them regularly and bring up any problems. If you experience any pains after the first couple of days or you lose or break your braces, make sure you contact your dentist / orthodontist as soon as possible.

Thank you for reading through our guide to caring for your braces. If you’re interested in having Orthodontic treatment, you should talk to your local Midlands Smile Centres dentist about whether it’s right for you. Please find some FAQs below.

FAQs

Q:

Since having my braces, I’ve had a very dry mouth, how can I stop this?

A:

Make sure you drink plenty of water. Saliva is very important for your mouth, as it protects against germs and can also help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Q:

Am I able to chew gum when I’m wearing my braces?

A:

It’s best to avoid chewing gum when you have braces. Chewing gum can stick to your braces, and cause damage with the chewing motion.

Q: 

I’m nervous about having Orthodontic treatment, is there any help I can get?

A: 

Your dentist can talk you through the procedure and the steps involved in giving you a straight smile, and help you through any problems you may have with braces.

Q:

I’m experiencing swelling around my mouth after having my braces, is this normal?

A:

Swelling of the cheeks and lips is perfectly normal, and should disappear after a couple of days. If you experience these for longer, or if you have any other problems you should talk to your dentist.

Q:

I want to have invisible braces, but I was wondering whether they're easier to clean?

A:

Invisalign clear aligners are very easy to clean, as they are removable. This means you can remove them before you eat so you don’t have to clean them after every meal. Just make sure you give your teeth a thorough clean before you put your braces back on.

Help My Teeth are Loose!

We recently came across this question

Question
“MSC
Over the last decade my teeth have started to become loose. My teeth have also started to feel uncomfortable when I eat harder foods. Is there anything you can suggest which would help stop this, or any way you can help stabilise them?”

We decided to share the advice we gave, it may help someone else who has found themselves in this position, but is too frightened or embarrassed to ask

Answer
Obviously the best and first thing anyone with dental problems should do is clean their teeth thoroughly, including using inter dental brushes, floss and mouth wash, as food trapped between teeth can cause dental problems. If the problem persists or has progressed to the point where teeth have become loose, you should contact a dentist without delay. Teeth can become loose for a number of reasons, other times it is a result of sudden physical trauma, such as a sporting accident, sometimes it results from more gradual trauma such as tooth grinding, in some cases it is trauma to the jaw which has resulted in gradual or sudden bone loss. Most commonly it is caused by periodontal disease, bacteria which results from plaque. Due to there being so many different reasons teeth can become loose, it’s important to have a dentist assess the cause of the damage and recommend a treatment plan.

The good news in that in many cases, loose teeth can be treated and restored to a good level of dental health. The ways this is achieved vary, for example if the loss of tooth security has been caused by grinding, the dentist may decide all you need is a bite guard. This is a relatively inexpensive treatment and can resolve mild problems. If the problem has progressed further, the dentist might make a bite adjustment, by either replacing crowns, grinding fillings or teeth. This treatment is call an occlusal adjustment. A bite guard is also often used in conjunction with this treatment.

If a number of teeth have become loose or a single tooth has become very loose, a dental splint may be applied. Dental splints are in essence similar to braces, but don’t encase the entire set of lower, or upper teeth. In some cases the splints may be used to stabilise the teeth and then removed, but in other cases crowns may be used in combination with the splints as a permanent stabiliser.

Clear Aligners or Fixed Retainers?

It is also possible to use orthodontic braces to stabilise teeth. This would normally only be done where a patient has another reason for wanting braces, such as the desire to improve their smile or make it easier to clean their teeth. The cause of the underlying problem can make treatment with braces difficult or unsuitable, which only a dentist will be able to assess. A dentist will also be able to help you select the correct brace type, as both treatment and lifestyle can impact the brace which will best suit you. We find most patients are very glad to have a dentist help them select a brace, as deciding between clear aligners or fixed retainers can be, daunting, confusing or altogether off putting when faced alone.

Please don’t worry about your teeth any more, come and see one of our dental specialist, who will be more than happen to help you.

Regards

Kelly
"

If you are worried about loose teeth, please don't delay book an appointment with MSC today. We have extended our opening hours, so one of our dental practices it probably able to help you out right now. Alternatively you may find it easier to send us a message via our website.

http://midlandssmilecentres.co.uk/