Smoking and its Effects on Your Dental Health

Smoking has a dramatic effect on a person’s overall health. Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances on the planet. On average 1 in 6 adults smoke. 17% of men and 16% for women. This means that, in the UK, there are 9.1 million adult smokers. Smoking causes a range of dental health issues. Gum disease and mouth cancer have been rising in more recent years. Here we aim to provide a facts and figures guide to smoking and how it can affect oral health.

Smoking and its effects on dental health   

As we all know, smoking can cause a wide range of problems in all areas of the body. One of the major areas includes your mouth. Constant inhalation of the toxins nicotine and tar can result in a host of problems. Research conducted by Cancer research UK find that 9 out of 10 cases of mouth cancer are down to poor lifestyle choices such as smoking. Reading this you may wonder what causes such a vast number of people to take up smoking or why people find it so difficult to stop? The key drug in cigarettes, nicotine, is highly addictive. In fact, it can be as addictive as cocaine. This means that giving it up is easier said than done. So, why bother in the first place? One misconception about smoking is that it only takes one cigarette to get addicted. Opening yourself to smoking is the first step to becoming addicted. You tend to find that people who are open to a “social smoke” or the idea of smoking end up getting trapped, however it also seems that many smokers are starting from a young age and have one or more close family members that smoke.

 

Damage caused by smoking    

Smoking has a dramatic effect on your dental health, you may notice that smokers tend to have yellow or rotted teeth. This is not down to the fact that they do not do a good job of cleaning, but brushing alone is simply not enough to remove these stains. Teeth whitening could be the only way to return teeth back to their natural state. Tobacco, over time, leaves a yellow stain on your teeth which is extremely difficult to remove once it’s there. This is not the only issue that affects the smoking population. Rotting teeth, mouth cancer and gum disease are all common issues for smokers. One major issue that we come across at MSC is tooth loss, many people end up needing dental implants to fix these problem.

What can you do about it

There are many options open to smokers to help them avoid the problems of smoking. These include: nicotine gum, nicotine spray, nicotine patches and e-cigarettes or vape pens. Several of these options are not highly successful. It is not simply nicotine that needs to be suppressed, but the actions that come along with it. If you are to ask someone who has smoked at some point in their life, they may tell you that the action of moving their arm, having something between their fingers and the taste/feel also play a part. In more recent years, vape pens and e-cigarettes have become the most popular way to quit, offering almost everything that comes with smoking without containing as many harmful substances. All of these options offer an exit, however they fail to provide a cost-effective way to do so.

Cold turkey

It is not often that you see many people take this route to quit smoking, but it is quite easily, the most effective and cost efficient path. The simple fact is, that if you have the determination to fight the addiction for the respective time, you will quit. It also ensures that you won’t become dependent on any other form of quitting. We understand that this may not be true for everyone and would not discourage anyone form using other methods, however figures suggest that you are much more likely to quit due to the fact you shorten your withdrawal period.

To find out more information about smoking and its affects to your dental health. Head to the Midlands Smile Centres website where you will find the mouth cancer figure page.

Shaping Your Smile with Implants

This Blog has been updated and can now be found here

Dental Treatment Available to You

Dental Treatment at MSC

Midlands Smile Centres have a number of different treatments to suit a variety of wants and needs. It is always suggested that before undergoing treatment, you should understand what options are available to you. This will ensure you to receive the best treatment for you. If dental treatment is something that you require, you and your dentist will be looking into many options to establish what the best course of action is.

Orthodontic Treatment

The first aspect that should be looked at when it comes to getting dental treatment should be why the treatment is necessary in the first place. The reasons can be personal such as you are unhappy with how your teeth look or for medical reasons such as having crowded teeth which can cause problems later in life. Starting with Orthodontics, one type of treatment that is available at MSC includes Damon braces, these apply gentle pressure in order to move your teeth into their desired position. They are also considered to be more comfortable than traditional braces.

Another type of treatment that is becoming more and more popular are Invisalign braces. Like all orthodontic treatments, their objective is to relocate the teeth to improve comfort and appearance for the patient, however there is no visible aspect to the treatment. Invisalign braces are almost invisible to the eye and can be easily removed, to make eating and cleaning easier. If you're looking for something that works a little quicker, Six Months Smiles may be for you. This orthodontic treatment uses tooth-coloured braces that straightens the teeth in an average time of 4-9 months.

Restorative Dentistry

Looking at other types of treatment, Midlands Smile Centres offers a wide range of options including restorative treatments such as bridges, crowns and dentures. These could be the best course of action when you feel like you need a boost to your smile. Bridges are an effective alternative when you have missing teeth. They work by being secured to the natural teeth that surround the area left by the missing teeth. Crowns on the other hand are used to repair a damaged tooth, they are placed on top of a partially broken tooth in order to strengthen the tooth and avoid more damage. Dentures are an alternative to this and cover a number of treatments such as dental implants which can complete your smile again.

Cosmetic Dentistry

The motivation to get dental treatment is an important one. For many people their smile is an important part of their appearance and can have a massive effect on a person’s self-confidence. Here at Midlands Smile Centre we understand that it is an ever growing worry for many people, because of this we offer a diverse range of treatment to enable you to smile confidently again. An example of this type of treatment includes fillings. These can be used to fill gaps in the teeth and look very natural. This again is something that is important to our patients.

Other such treatments that can be used to boost confidence include tooth whitening kits that can be used at home. After a tooth assessment conducted by one of our fully trained dentists, a tooth whitening kit may be a possible option for you. If you decide to go ahead you will receive a whitening gel along with a crafted tray that is made for your teeth, this can be worn for several hours a day until you feel the treatment is complete.

Airflow treatment is commonly used by our dentists during dental appointments. This treatment works by shooting pressurised air, water and sodium at the specific teeth in order to clean and polish them. This should improve the appearance of your teeth. As well as this, veneers could be the ideal improvement your smile. These are usually made of porcelain and are coloured to look like teeth in order to make your smile more appealing.

Your Journey Towards Perfect Teeth

The sooner you start your journey towards perfect teeth, the sooner you'll see results. If you are looking to brighten your smile then Midlands smile centres are here to help you. Before deciding whether the treatment is right for you, make sure you’ve done your research and understand what the treatment entails. It is also important that you take on-board any advice that is given to you by our dental professionals in order to make the correct decision.

If you’re considering dental improvement, please get in touch with Midlands Smile Centres for more information and to enquire about an appointment.

MSC Implants in 2017

Why Implants?

Answering this question is easy, because implants are an excellent choice for replacing missing teeth. Not only are they comfortable, but they are natural in their appearance, too. Plus, having implants can improve your eating experience and enhance your smile. So, considering these benefits and the positive impact they will have on your confidence, it is not hard to see why implants are the way forward for those with missing teeth.

The Procedure

Implants consist of a dental crown that has a natural appearance and a titanium supporting rod. The titanium supporting rod is placed into your jawbone. This replaces the root of your tooth and the dental crown replaces the tooth. When this procedure is performed by Midland Smile Centres, our no scalpel technique is employed. This part of the procedure makes use of X-ray imaging to locate precisely where the implant is to be placed before it is inserted into the gum. 

Due to this technique employed by our specialist dentists, you can expect less swelling and bleeding. It makes the procedure less painful as well. The use of the no-scalpel technique also means that healing time is reduced, and in just three months with two visits, the procedure will be finished*.

Want to know how dental implants are made? Watch this short video that explains the process. 

An important thing to be aware of in regards to having dental implants, is that it is not advisable to simply opt for the cheapest provider, as experience in performing this procedure is crucial. Fortunately, all of our skilled implantologists at MSC have many years experience in carrying out this procedure, as they have been performing for over 25 years and have successfully treated over 5,000 patients.

Aftercare

Your dentist will provide details about your aftercare and it is important that you follow them. It may be necessary to take painkillers, and when you are brushing your teeth, make sure you clean the teeth attached to your implants as much as your normal teeth. Areas that are more difficult to get to may mean that additional advice is needed. Sometimes further visits to the hygienist can be necessary, too.

To Sum Up

Midland Smiles Centres have highly experienced, skilled dentists that you can be confident will perform a successful implant procedure. Once complete, you can start looking forward to better eating and an improved smile, which is sure to make a positive impact on your daily life. Get in touch with MSC about our dental implants in Birmingham today.

Other Dental Treatments at MSC

If you want to take the standard of your smile even further or feel that implants may not be the right option for you, it may be helpful to learn about the other types of treatment that are available at Midland Smiles Centres. Dentures, bridges, crowns, denture implants, gold implants and a range of cosmetic treatment types are all on offer at MSC. Contact Midland Smile Centres to find out more about what we can offer you!

*Actual healing times and treatment lengths may vary. Ask your dentist for a more accurate estimate.

Full Guide to MSC Emergency Treatment

Midlands Smile Centres will provide an around the clock services for any emergency treatment. We provide a multitude of services which are available to both new and existing patients of Midlands Smile Centres. If you are in need of any emergency treatment, the number you will need can be found on our emergency treatment page.

Alongside this it is always satisfying to know that the emergency treatment can be completed quickly, usually faster than you are able to get to the Dental Hospital.* This is because MSC has a number of practices throughout Birmingham, this means that help is never far away. Finding a dentist near you is quick and simple meaning each emergency can be processed efficiently. We pride ourselves on our quick and efficient service.

To ensure that every client can be treated to the best ability of each dentist, it is key that a person in question receives their treatment quickly. The quicker a patient receives dental treatment, the more likely the treatment will be a success. For a client that may be in pain this is an important factor. 

Dentistry is something that some people may not consider an important aspect of their health, however it is something which should not be over looked. You may ask why emergency dental treatment is necessary, well there are a number of problems that can occur without notice. Some of these can become rather painful and cause a large amount of discomfort. This is why emergency dental treatment is essential, being able to relieve pain and stop the problem form getting worse is something which we find to be of importance to every patient that experiences our emergency treatment. The MSC community recommend that existing and new patients take time to learn about their dental health so that if an issue arises, it can be dealt with swiftly before it causes further problems or damage.

Something that MSC take particular concern over is an occurrence when a tooth has be knocked-out of the mouth. If this should ever happen to either yourself or somebody you know, Midlands Smile Centre is here to help. We suggest that in the eventuality of a tooth being knocked out, to follow simple steps that can be taken to help ensure the tooth can be re-inserted. These steps are to place the tooth into a container of milk and to avoid washing/drying it. Then take the tooth with you to the dentist where hopefully the tooth can be placed back into the gum line.

Other problems that Midlands Smile Centres come across include loose teeth. Again this is something that can be fixed, in most cases our highly trained dentists are able to return the tooth back to its original position and fix it in place, avoiding the need for more treatment. If you are to come across a suspect tooth that seems loose it is vital that you try and refrain from messing with the tooth, reducing contact and avoid placing any pressure. In fact we suggest that it is better practice to apply support to the tooth in order to limit the risk of further damage or the tooth falling out of place 

It is worth noting that a lost tooth is also something which should be treated of high significance, and help should be enlisted to sort the issue. If a tooth falls out, the gap it leaves can become infected, much like an open wound can be if it is not treated. This can result in further problems such as an abscess, therefore the best form of action is to get it seen to as soon as is possible. In the unfortunate circumstance where you do lose a tooth, we have a number of treatments that can help remedy this, such as dental implants.

You may have concerns that may seem minor, however you should be aware that sometimes things may not seem important but can cause a lot of future problems. Tooth ache is something that a lot of people pass off and consider to be insignificant. We recommend that if tooth ache is persistent and is still discomforting after taking pain killers, then it is vital that you get in touch with us on our emergency line so that the experienced team here at MSC can get the right treatment for you. 

A second relevant issue would be a lump on your gum line next to the roots of your teeth. This is something which should be addressed immediately as it could be an abscess. If this is not treated quickly and properly it could result in further treatment or tooth loss.

Other problems which you may cross can include a broken tooth or filling. If such a situation was to occur then you should contact the MSC emergency treatment line. This is again something to be concerned about as it could lead to further damage such as tooth loss and/or additional filling damage if the problem area is to go untreated.

Finally, it is always advised that you take time to understand that dental care is a very important aspect of your health and should be taken seriously. We would also suggest that you familiarise yourself with your nearest Midlands Smile Centre dentistry and how best to get in contact with them in case an emergency was to occur. If you feel that you are in need of any form of emergency treatment then please contact our emergency treatment number.

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

Restorative Dentistry and Dental Implants in 2017

Start the new year by thinking about what changes you can make to boost the health of your teeth. Here at Midland Smiles Centres, we offer you a range of treatment types for restorative dentistry as well as dental implants in Birmingham. Take the time to think about how you would like to improve your teeth and see how we can help you start your 2017 with the perfect smile.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a way of replacing missing teeth. Compared to other treatment options, dental implants are generally believed to be the best and most versatile form of treatment for replacement teeth. At Midland Smiles Centres, you can expect our treatment to include the no scalpel-highlight dental implant technique. In this procedure, X-ray imaging is used by the dentist to locate precisely where the titanium tooth implant is to be placed. Then, the implant is inserted into the gum directly and is done without an incision created by a scalpel.

This approach will mean reduced pain, bleeding and swelling for the patient. It also means that healing time will be reduced, and in as little as three months, with only two visits, the entire procedure can be complete. The benefits of having dental implants are a renewed pleasure of eating and an improved smile. To undergo this treatment it is advisable to first seek a dentist with experience of performing successful dental implant procedures. You will be happy to learn that at MSC, some of our dentists have over 25 years of performing successful dental implant procedures.

Bridges

Also at MSC, we can provide you with restorative dentistry in the form of bridges, crowns and dentures. Dental bridges are artificial teeth or a tooth that are permanently fixed to the natural teeth neighbouring the gap in the teeth. Or they can be fixed to the natural tooth on the one side of the gap. Bridges are suitable for use in instances where only a few teeth have been lost, and they can also be a preferable alternative to dentures.

Crowns

Dental crowns are an artificial restoration that can be very beneficial to the recipient. They are placed over the remaining section of a prepared tooth and give the tooth strength as well as the shape that a natural tooth has. Also referred to as a cap, crowns are available from MSC in a number of types, one of example of these being a natural-looking white crown placed onto back molars to bring a youthful and natural appearance to the patient’s mouth.

Dentures

The other option for restorative dentistry available at Midland Smile Centres is dental dentures. Dentures are made using either acrylic (plastic) or a metal and plastic mixture. Retaining clips can also be used in both of these types of dentures. These retaining clips keep the dentures in the right position inside of the patient’s mouth. The advantage of having dentures is that by replacing the lost or missing teeth you may have, you can take pleasure in having a better diet and enjoy an improved smile.

There are various ways in which the appearance and overall health of your teeth can be changed through the types of treatment we at MSC can offer you. Our dental implants and restorative dentistry treatment have unique benefits for our patients, so it is a good idea to take the time now to consider which treatment is best for you. Get in touch with MSC and start your journey towards the smile you want in 2017.

Comprehensive Guide to Dental Implants

What Are Dental Implants

Dental implants are used to fill gaps made by missing teeth. They are one of the most widely used methods and patients who have the treatment say that it has a real boost on their self-confidence.

How Do Implants Help

Dental implants can help an individual to feel happier and more confident with their smile, and can also restore the joy of eating. For some people it can seem like quite a daunting experience, but we ensure that our teams provide a calm and caring environment where you as a customer can feel relaxed. An experienced member of the team will discuss the options available and settle any worries you may have about dental implants.

More About Dental Implants

Dental implants provide a client with the opportunity to feel confident again. Dental implants are an alternative for a missing tooth, they are also the most practical and comfortable option for a missing tooth. They are well hidden which means that they are unlikely to be spotted, and as robust as a normal tooth.

Alongside dental implants we also provide implant supported bridges and implant supported dentures. These treatments are normally used when you are missing multiple teeth.

We also provide finance options that will enable you to pay for any form of dental surgery. These finance options can be used on all treatments that cost £500 or more, and we have repayment terms of between 12 and 60 months available. Here at Midlands Smile Centers, our aim is to ensure that the treatment is right for you and that your payment method suits you.

If you feel that a dental implant would be right for you, the next step would be for you to book an appointment. When you go to your appointment with one of our specialist dental implant practitioners, you will discuss the treatment and the best options for you. Your experienced dentist will talk you through every step of the treatment and answer any questions or queries that you may have.

Midlands Smile Centres is proud of the fact that we have a strong and well experienced team of dental surgeons to carry out each operation to a high standard. Some of our experienced dental implant specialists have been practising for over 29 years, so you know you will be in capable hands. These specialists can be found in our Selly oak and Kings Heath practices in Birmingham.

Caring For Your Implant

It is important that you take good care of dental implants just like you would with your actual teeth. Poor care of your dental implant will lead to the same problems that occur with poor care of your teeth. It is important to look after your dental implants as soon as you have them. Following this plan will instruct you on the best way to look after and maintain your dental implants.

Once your treatment has been complete it is important to not aggravate the implant or its surrounding area. The implant is at the most amount of risk immediately after being placed. After the treatment is over you may find bruising and swelling around the new implant, this should not cause any worry as it is a common when a person has this type of operation. It is also important at this stage to try and avoid this area of the mouth, by keeping it away from food, drink and if possible your tongue. After a short period of time the swelling and bruising should reduce. This recovery period can be helped by applying ice wrapped in a towel to the affected area.

Many people experience swelling and pain after their new implant has been put in place. There are many different ways in which this pain and discomfort can be managed to make this time more bearable. Pain killers can be used to help relieve some of the pain, however it is important that you do not take any pain killers until the local anaesthetic has worn off. It is important that you pay attention to your new implant, if the pain and swelling is still persistent after a few days, then it is recommended that you revisit your local Midlands Smile Centres practice.

The more you look after your implant, and the cleaner you keep the affected area the more likely your implant is to succeed. During your first few days after treatment the new implant and the area surrounding it should be avoided, however it is essential to maintain brushing the teeth in the rest of your mouth. After a few days you should begin to also brush the new implant, but you should try to avoid being too rough as this could damage the implant. A few days later you can begin to attempt eating with your new implant.

Other methods of care that are seen as beneficial to somebody recovering from their treatment include using a teaspoon of salt in hot water, this should be used like a mouthwash and is used to help keep the treatment area clean. Be careful to not using boiling hot water as this will not help the recovery period. This can be repeated multiple times a day, every day until the healing process has been complete. It is also recommended that you don’t smoke during the recovery period as this can have a dramatic effect of how long the treatment area takes to recover.

Another aspect which is important to the recovery after treatment is your diet. You should ensure that your body has the correct levels on nutrition and supplements in order to decrease the recovery time. On your first few days of recovery it is recommended that you drink plenty of water, as much as 6 eight ounce glasses for the first day. It is also advised that you do not drink using a straw. This is because the sucking motion may cause bleeding in the treatment area.

Whilst you are still under the effects of the local anaesthetic, you should try and avoid drinking any hot drinks, as you could accidentally burn yourself. It is advised that you eat soft food to avoid putting unwanted strain on your new implant. After the first day of recovery you should begin eating normally as this will help the implant and the surrounding area strengthen and heal.

We hope that the information provided was helpful to you. You can find out more information about Dental implants in Birmingham by contacting your local Midlands Smile Centres and booking a free consultation.

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.

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.