Shaping Your Smile with Implants

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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.

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.

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. 

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. 

The Importance of Diet In Dental Health

One of the most important factors in our dental health, is our diet. What and when you eat and drink can make a huge difference in the health of your mouth. By maintaining a healthy diet, you can really make a difference to your smile. Here, we will cover why a healthy diet plays a role in your dental health, what foods and drinks are good or bad for your mouth, why you should limit your sugary food intake to just mealtimes and more.

The Importance of a Healthy Diet

Some foods and drinks contain more sugar than others. Whenever you ingest sugary items, they begin attacking your teeth, due to the sugar in the item reacting with the bacteria in the plaque on your teeth. This reaction produces acids, which begins damaging your teeth, destroying the enamel, which can eventually cause a cavity in your teeth. This process is called decay, and can eventually lead to needing fillings or extractions. You can help prevent the risk of tooth decay by limiting your sugar intake to only mealtimes.

Your diet can also help you with other oral problems. Gum disease is a problem that is caused due to poor dental hygiene. It occurs when plaque has built up after a long time, causing it to harden into a substance called tartar, which can’t be cleaned via normal brushing. The build-up of plaque and tartar can cause inflammation of the gums, leading to gum disease. You can help prevent gum disease with your diet. By eating items containing lots of vitamins and minerals, and things such as fruit or vegetables, you can help your body against gum disease. Without treatment, gum disease can cause bad breath, and eventually tooth loss.

If you ever do need an extraction or lose your teeth, there are treatments available that can restore your smile. Have a look at some of Midlands Smile Centres treatments, such as Dental Implants, Bridges, Crowns or Dentures.

So What Can I Eat?

It’s important to know what items can cause decay to your teeth. You should always read the label on your food and drink, so you know exactly what you’re putting into your body. All sugars can cause decay, so it’s important to choose items with a smaller amount of sugar if you are able. Another important note, is that the phrase ‘No-added sugar’ does not mean it is sugar free. For example, fruit juice with no-added sugar, will still have the sugar from the fruit.

Snacking is a habit that is easy to fall into, but it can actually be very bad for your dental health. You should try and have 3 regular meals a day, and limit your snacking in between these meals as much as possible. If you do snack between meals, try and eat food that doesn't contain sugar. Savoury snacks such as cheese, nuts and breadsticks are generally better than most other snack food, including fruit.

One of the main points to remember in regards to your dental health is to limit your sugar intake to mealtimes. This allows your body to properly combat the sugar with the saliva that is produced when you eat. Multiple sugary snacks a day reduce the effectiveness of your saliva. It’s important to realise, that sugary foods can also cause other health problems, such as heart disease and obesity.

Your fluid intake is very important for your dental health. Keeping yourself hydrated keeps saliva levels high, reducing the risk of damage to your teeth due to sugar. The best drinks for your mouth are still water and milk. Fruit juice should be limited to mealtimes, as this does contain sugar. If you are going to have fruit juice in-between meals, try diluting it with water. Fizzy drinks can cause a lot of dental problems. The sugar can cause tooth decay, and the acid in the drink can dissolve the enamel on your teeth. These risks increase if you have your fizzy drink between meals.

Other Ways to Protect Your Mouth

Brushing your teeth twice a day is by far one of the best ways to protect your mouth. However, you should avoid brushing your teeth for at least half an hour after you've eaten, otherwise you could brush away the softened enamel on your teeth. If you only have time to brush your teeth once a day, try and brush your teeth before bed. At night, your flow of saliva slows down, meaning your teeth become vulnerable. Brushing your teeth before bed protects them during the night.

After you've eaten, you could try sugar free chewing gum. This can help cancel out the acid in your mouth after eating or drinking. However, it is important to make sure you use sugar free gum, as otherwise it could cause more damage to your teeth. It’s been proven that sugar free chewing gum can help prevent tooth decay.

Keep Your Smile Bright

If you have any questions or concerns about your dental health, or you're looking to brighten your smile, please contact your local Midlands Smile Centres branch, and book a check-up. 

Choose Dental Implants in Birmingham from MSC

Dental Implants in Birmingham

Having a completed smile can increase your self-confidence by a huge margin. That’s why Dental Implants are an incredibly sought-after treatment

The procedure for a Dental Implant can seem scary, but with the support of our caring and understanding dental team, you can discuss the treatment and have any of your questions about Dental Implants answered.

What are Dental Implants?

Implants are a treatment used to substitute for missing teeth. They are perfect for those looking for a natural and comfortable method to replace missing teeth.

For those who have multiple missing teeth, Midlands Smile Centres also provide Denture Implants and Implant Supported Bridges.

Discouraged by the price of Dental Implants? Midlands Smile Centres offers a Smile Plan to help you afford the treatment, for as little as £50 per month. For any payment for treatment exceeding £500, Midlands Smile Centres offers finance to help. Any repayments terms fall between 12 and 60 months.

Midlands Smile Centres make an effort to provide the most affordable treatments with the most experienced dentists in Birmingham.

Having been carrying out Dental Implants procedures for over 28 years, we pride ourselves on being one of the most experienced Dental Implant practices in Birmingham. Once you've made the decision to have a Dental Implant, make sure to book an appointment to visit on of our specialist dentists, to discuss the treatment further. 

Our two Dental Implant centres in Birmingham are our Kings Heath and Selly Oak practices. However, feel free to come to any practice as we only refer the surgery to our Implant centres.

You can send us a message with any questions or concerns regarding Dental Implants Birmingham via our online form.

Alternatively, you can contact your local practice via email, phone or online form.

Dental Implant Aftercare

How to look after Dental Implants

It’s easy to neglect proper care of your implants. However you should take as much care of your implants as with your actual teeth. Otherwise you could end up with more health problems and suffer more discomfort. Care of your implants begins as soon as you have the surgery for them, and by following this aftercare guide you will be on your way to healthy implants.

Immediately after your treatment is when your new implant and surrounding mouth is most at risk of damage. Take care not to disturb the area of treatment with food, drink or your tongue. It is normal to have swelling or bruising after your treatment. This will subside after a few days, but you can help reduce the swelling with ice packs wrapped in a towel.

It is likely you may be sore for a few days after any surgery. This can be managed with pain killers after the local anaesthetic has worn off. It is important that you return to your local practice if you are still experiencing pain and swelling after a few days. Some minor bleeding after treatment is normal. If this continues, you should contact your local Midlands Smile Centres practice.

How successful your implant is depends on how clean you keep your mouth. Whilst avoiding the treatment area, you should continue brushing your teeth each day. After a few days, you should attempt to clean the treatment area. You should attempt to keep food away from the treatment area as much as possible. Following every meal, you should rinse to keep the area clean.

 A beneficial healing method is using hot salt mouthwashes (hot water with a teaspoon of salt). Take care that the water is not too hot. It is good to repeat this as often as possible. Smoking is highly unadvised, as this can severely limit how quickly you heal after your surgery.

It is important to manage your diet after your treatment. You should drink plenty of fluids to aid in the healing process. It is recommended you drink 5-6 eight ounce glasses during the first day after your treatment. You should not use a straw when drinking. The sucking motion could cause the area to start bleeding again.

After your treatment, you should try to avoid hot liquids or food whilst under the effect of anaesthetic, as you could accidentally burn yourself. You should limit yourself to soft foods for a day after your surgery. However, you should return to your normal diet as soon as possible. It may be a struggle, but if you eat, your healing period will be faster and you won’t suffer as much from discomfort.

If you have any further questions about proper aftercare of your implants, please talk to one of our implant specialists. Alternatively, you can submit your question through the Dental Implant page on the Midlands Smile Centres website.

Dental Implants in Birmingham is a one of the many dental services offered by Midlands Smile Centres. 

Complete your perfect smile with a Dental Implant

 MSC Dental Implants Birmingham

Dental Implants can make you feel more confident by completing your beautiful smile.

Here at Midlands Smile Centres, we are satisfied that we provide an excellent service.

What we will do here at MSC Dental Implants Birmingham

We are here to talk to you about the treatment and to answer all of your questions. We will go through all the ins and outs of the process and our Dental Implant specialist can assess your mouth and decide whether having a Dental Implant will benefit you. Dental Implants replace the missing tooth to make your smile naturally look complete, this way no one will notice that you have a missing tooth making you feel more confident.

How can having a missing tooth can affect you?

Patients with missing teeth report that they find it difficult to eat with ease, food gets stuck or cuts into the exposed gum which can be uncomfortable. Other patients also have problems with their speech and having a missing tooth can cause you to whistle. Having a Dental Implant fitted can overcome these problems.

Similar treatments for missing teeth

If you have one or more teeth that need to be replaced within your smile, then we also support denture implants and implant supported bridges.

How affordable are our treatments?

At Midlands Smile Centre, we want to make sure all of our treatments are affordable. We offer a Smile plan so the cost of going ahead with these treatments can seem less daunting. Being a part of the Smile Plan can reduce dental implants from as little as £50 per month.
Midlands Smile Centres also offer finance on treatments that exceed £500. Any repayment terms are between 12 – 60 months.

We believe having experience is vital

It’s important to get your Dental Implants done by a professional who has experience carrying out these procedures. We have more than 28 years’ experience performing Dental Implant procedures.

Book an appointment today

When you have made the choice to go ahead with a dental implant treatment, book yourself an appointment with one of our Dental Implant specialists to talk further about what options are available to you.

Our Dental Implant specialists are based at our MSC Kings Heath and Selly Oak practices in Birmingham.

Read more about Dental Implants: http://dentalimplantsbirmingham.biz/