Easy Tips for Dental Health

There are a number of things that we can all do to make sure our teeth stay in a healthy condition. As this blog should make clear, doing this needn’t be complicated. Follow this easy guide and discover simple ways to ensure you have healthy teeth.

Brushing

Without applying too much pressure, it is important to brush your teeth twice every day. Two minutes is the recommended time that you should brush your teeth for. It is also recommended that you brush your teeth after every meal. Consider carefully the type of toothbrush you use and maybe think about using an electric toothbrush. These offer greater efficiency when it comes to cleaning, especially due to the fact that they can make contact with areas that are difficult to reach.

Make sure you choose the best toothpaste for you, as there are many types available. Make sure that your toothpaste contains fluoride, as this strengthens the teeth and helps prevent tooth decay.

Likewise, mouthwash and flossing can be very helpful for keeping a healthy mouth. Mouthwash can be used to freshen breath, disinfect the mouth and fluoridate the teeth. Flossing helps extract pieces of food lodged between your teeth, cleaning areas that a toothbrush cannot reach and helping to protect against gum disease.

Eating and Drinking

Be sure to limit the amount of sugary food and drinks you consume, as high-volumes of sugar and starch in your diet contribute to elevated levels of acid in your mouth which undermines your dental standards. Alcohol is one type of drink to be wary of, as it has the potential to deteriorate the surface of teeth which can cause the loss of enamel.

One drink that can actually be of benefit to your teeth is water. This is because water is free from sugar and it can be used to clear your teeth of any food particles, which, if left lodged between your teeth, could cause decay or plaque.

Another method of improving your dental health is by eating a varied diet that includes a large quantity of vitamins and minerals. Doing this helps to provide a defence against gum disease. Calcium is also an important part of diet, as it improves the strength of your teeth. Calcium rich foods include cheese, yoghurt and soybeans. Vitamin D aids your body’s absorption of calcium.

Regular Visits to the Dentists

This is critical to maintaining the standard of your dental health and can allow for early detection of problems with your teeth. This, in turn which helps you to avoid elaborate and costly treatment for problems that could have been spotted before they were allowed to develop.

Your dentist can also recommend habits that you can instill to improve your dental health, and point out any current habits that you may have that could be deleterious to your dental health.

Find a Midland Smile dentist near you.

Sealants

These thin, protective layers applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth can protect teeth from decay. Enquire with your local dentist to find out more about sealants and how they can help you.

Taking Care of Sensitive Teeth

Use a brush with soft bristles, a toothpaste for sensitive teeth and brush gently if you suffer from sensitive teeth. Be careful with acidic and sweet food and drink because they can contribute towards sensitivity. Consider consulting your dentist if the sensitivity persists.

Maintaining Saliva

Saliva is a key part of keeping your teeth healthy. In the absence of saliva, a dry mouth develops which can cause problems with your dental health. Saliva is important for maintaining the pH of your mouth, ensuring that the acids that attack your teeth are neutralised. Consulting a doctor is the best step towards alleviating the causes of dry mouth.

Refrain from Smoking

Stopping smoking will increase the health of your teeth, not to mention your overall health. Toothpaste designed to prevent the staining and bacteria from smoking is available for those that smoke. Remember, your oral health is very closely linked to your overall health, which makes smoking that extra bit more harmful. Help is available for those who wish to stop smoking from your doctor or dentist.

Seek Medical Advice About Acid Reflux Symptoms

Due to the fact that acid reflux symptoms or GERD can damage the enamel of your teeth, it is wise to seek advice from your doctor to help gain control over the symptoms.

Keep Your Teeth Protected

Keep your teeth in a healthy condition by not using teeth for opening or holding things. Be aware also that mouth piercings can damage teeth. The use of mouth guards during sports activities is also advised.

Sugar-free Gum

This helps create saliva which alleviates oral dryness and assists in the neutralisation of plaque acids and in maintaining the mineralisation of teeth.

Taking Care of Your Braces

Brush your teeth after mealtimes, making sure you brush your braces at the same time. When you do this, take out the removable parts including the elastics without interfering with the wires. Flossing before and the use of mouthwash after brushing is also advised.

Foods that are softer should be favoured in the first few days after brace fitting, while hard and sticky foods should generally be approached with caution. Try to lessen your consumption of sugary food and drink, and consult your dentist if you experience any difficulties with your brace. Get in touch with your dentist if you feel any pain in the first couple of days of having your brace fitted, or if you break or lose your brace.

For More Advice

Visit our website for more dental tips or contact us for more advice from a friendly and professional dentist near you.

Root Canal Treatment at MSC

What is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment (also known as endodontics) is a procedure that is used to remove infection from the root canal of your tooth.

Why it’s Important

The blood or nerve supply of a tooth - known as the pulp- can become infected due to decay or injury, and if this happens, the infection could spread through the root canal system of the tooth, potentially leading to an abscess. Therefore, root canal treatment (RCT) is important because it helps to stop the spread of infection. If root canal treatment is not carried out, the spread of infection will occur and it is possible that the tooth will need to be taken out.

Given that the pulp cannot heal once it is destroyed and that it is not advisable to leave an infected tooth in the mouth, there is the alternative option of having the tooth removed. While this may seem like a preferable option to some people, it is usually best to keep as many natural teeth as possible.

What Happens During Treatment?

A time-consuming treatment that requires a lot of skill, root canal treatment means you will need to make a minimum of two visits to your dentist. Firstly, the infected pulp is removed; also, if there are any abscesses, these will be drained at this stage. After this, the root canal is cleaned and shaped to prepare it for filling. A temporary filling is put in before the tooth is then left to settle.

At a later visit, the tooth will be checked. Once all of the infection has cleared, the tooth is permanently filled.

Following Treatment

There are treatments available to you if the root canal treatment leads to tooth discolouration, which is rare. It may be a good idea to restore the tooth with a crown to strengthen it. Take care of any teeth that have undergone this treatment in the same way as you would with your normal teeth; clean them at least once a day- ideally with a fluoride toothpaste, reduce the number of sugary snacks you eat and keep them to mealtimes if possible, and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups.

If the root canal treatment is not advised by your dentist, or if the treatment is unsuccessful and repeated RCT attempts also fail, apicoectomy becomes necessary. This form of treatment attempts to get rid of the root tip and all of the infected tissue. A small incision will be made into your gum before the infected tissue and remaining few millimetres of the root tip are taken away. Finally, a filling is placed to seal the root end. Depending on the location of the tooth and the complexity of the roots, the treatment can last between 30-90 minutes.

How Midlands Smile Centres Can Help

Root Canal Treatment is a very important type of treatment for patients. Given the problems that a damaged or decayed root canal can cause, you will be happy to learn that root canal treatment is available here at Midlands Smile Centres and is performed by our highly skilled, experienced dentists. If you're experiencing pains, swelling or abscesses, it's important that you book a dental appointment as soon as possible, to reduce the amount of permanent damage that could be caused.

Emergency Dental Treatment at MSC

Emergency dental treatment is available at Midlands Smile Centres practices across Birmingham. You do not need to be a Midlands Smile Centres patient to receive our emergency dental treatment. It is always advisable in dental emergencies to see a dentist quickly. Doing so will mean a better chance of resolving the problems with your teeth.

Due to the fact that we at MSC have practices situated around Birmingham, we are often closer to patients who require help than the Dental Hospital or other dentists providing emergency dental treatment. We are usually able to give you the attention you require faster than a Dental Hospital.*

Warning signs that dental problems are occurring can be subtle. At times, warning signs can easily go unnoticed due to low levels of pain being more difficult to detect during the day. Midlands Smiles Centres can be contacted if pain killers are failing to provide the necessary relief from pain.

Visit our website for Emergency Dental Treatment from MSC. 

If possible, we will arrange for treatment to take place at your nearest Midlands Smile Centre practice. If this is not possible, please note that Selly Oak MSC and Kings Heath MSC are usually staffed by our emergency dentists.

Contact us immediately if you have any of these problems:

• Toothache that has lasted for more than 30 minutes after taking pain relief, cleaning and flossing between your teeth.
• A lump on your gum line next to the root of your teeth. This could be an abscess and could result in tooth loss if it is left untreated.
• A broken tooth or broken filling. Failure to receive treatment for this could result in further tooth or filling damage and eventual tooth loss.
• A broken crown. Without treatment this could result in untreatable decay to the root of the tooth, abscesses and eventual tooth loss.

• A tooth which has been knocked out. Place the dislodged tooth in a sealed container filled with milk and take it with you to the dentist. The reason for this is that dislodged teeth can sometimes be re-inserted. Do not wash or clean the tooth as this reduces the possibility of it being reinserted.
• A lost tooth. The wound left in your gum can be attended to by a dentist. Infection in the wound can cause abscesses and other complications. This is particularly important if you plan to have a dental implant.
• A loose or partially dislodged adult tooth. Avoid touching the tooth, except if you are preventing the tooth from falling out. Try to support the tooth instead of applying pressure to the tooth to keep it in place. Your dentist may be able to reinsert the tooth into its original location.

 

You do not need to be registered or have previously been a patient of Midlands Smile Centres to access our emergency dental treatment service. If you need Emergency Dental Treatment from Midlands Smile Centres, you can find everything you need on our website. 

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

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.