FREE CONSULTATION 0113 245 4868 Ask us about 0% Finance
Book Online

Why Oral Screening is Important

November 18th, 2015

585811_blogNovember is Mouth Cancer Awareness Month and we are determined to do everything we can to raise awareness of the importance of oral screening in Leeds. It sounds extreme to say a trip to the dentist could save your life, but with screening, this really is the case.

About screening

Screening is carried out to identify early warnings signs of dental diseases. We are able to use the latest technology to spot potential signs of dental decay and oral cancer before they become visible to the naked eye. In the case of oral cancer, the time of diagnosis is particularly important, as cancer can progress very quickly and the earlier it is treated, the higher the chance of survival.

Screening is nothing to be frightened of or worried about. The tests take minutes and there is no pain involved. In the unlikely event that potential problems are detected, further tests can be arranged and any treatment required can be administered as quickly as possible.

Looking out for signs of oral cancer

Although oral cancer affects more than 6,000 people in the UK every year, surveys suggest that many people are still unaware of what causes oral cancer and which symptoms to look out for. The main risk factors include drinking alcohol on a regular basis, smoking, a poor diet and HPV (human papilloma virus) infection. Symptoms to be wary of include any abnormal lumps or swelling in the mouth, mouth ulcers and sores that take a long time to heal, a persistent sore throat and difficulty swallowing. If you have any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to get checked out by your dentist or your GP.

If you’d like to find out more about our screening services or learn more about oral cancer, please don’t hesitate to call us and book an appointment.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in oral cancer | Comments Off on Why Oral Screening is Important

Cleaning Your Tongue – An Easier Business Than You Thought!

November 16th, 2015

2823674_blogMany people neglect their tongue when they clean their mouths, either simply from not knowing it should be cleaned or from not knowing the correct way to clean it. Many people simply don’t see the point in thoroughly cleaning their tongue, but it is actually strongly recommended by dentists.

It is advised to brush your teeth twice a day to dislodge plaque and food debris from your teeth and gums and to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. In comparison, the smooth surface of your tongue makes it hard for plaque to take root and it is often washed away by saliva. As such it isn’t as necessary to clean your tongue as often in regards to preventing gum and tooth decay.

So why should I clean my tongue?

The main reason it is advised to clean the tongue is to prevent bad breath. Although it is very hard for plaque to get a foothold on the tongue, bacteria that can cause bad breath is often found at the rear of the tongue, towards the throat. Although not dangerous in the same way as plaque, this can lead to very poor smelling breath if it is allowed to build up.

How should I clean my tongue?

Using a regular toothbrush on your tongue at the same time as you brush your teeth is an effective and simple way of getting rid of bacteria. When you brush your tongue you don’t need to put too much force behind it, this could cause more damage than good. Because the area mostly affected by this bacteria is the back of the tongue, using a toothbrush can sometimes make you gag. To stop this, specifically designed tongue cleaners known as tongue scrapers can be bought from many pharmacies or supermarkets.

Looking for a Leeds dentist? City Dental dentists are here to help.

Anyone who is suffering from bad breath should clean their tongue on a regular basis if they are not already doing so as it is one of the leading reasons for bad breath. It should also be remembered that the best way to go about this is to clean the very back of the tongue, using either a toothbrush or a tongue scraper.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in oral hygeine | Comments Off on Cleaning Your Tongue – An Easier Business Than You Thought!

Celebrities Put Braces on the A-List

November 12th, 2015

Beautiful young lady smilingGlamorous Smiles

If the most glamorous, popular and sought after starry eyed celebrities are using them, surely wearing a brace can no longer be seen to be an ordeal reserved for the painful years of adolescence?

Take Holly Willoughby for example, one of the latest celebrities to hit the headlines with braces. Posing for Twitter, the close-up picture showed Holly smiling widely in braces that appeared to be near-invisible, ultra-thin white metal wires. Beneath the picture she wrote, ‘Brace yourself, I’ve got braces!’

Holly isn’t the first celebrity to opt for braces. Other celebrities, such as Marks and Spencer’s protégée Myleene Klass, have also used braces to perfect their smile, a reassuring sight for the general public, particularly young women who class these celebrities as emulative role models. Surely with such beautiful, iconic women wearing them, ‘normal folk’ need no longer fear the humiliation of ‘going public’?

Why a Celebrity Smile is Priceless

Holly Willoughby is sending out a positive message to people who want to have a brace fitted. Braces are an essential way to create a lovely, straight smile and will boost your overall dental hygiene, making it easier for you to floss and brush between your teeth. A straighter smile will also improve your overall bone structure.

Let’s face it, when it comes to sorting out the important stuff no amount of vanity can get in the way. Everybody wants their teeth to look and feel good, and if the gorgeous women of TV are happy to get their teeth straightened at the expense of a little metal wiring, then why shouldn’t we?

Just do it!

Braces have progressed a lot since metal brackets and there are now a range of discreet braces available such as Invisalign, a clear plastic aligner that fits over the teeth and can even be removed at your own discretion. You needn’t be stuck in a rut when it comes to selecting the best brace for your teeth, so talk to your dentist about finding the most suitable brace to achieve your perfect smile today.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in orthodontics | Comments Off on Celebrities Put Braces on the A-List

The Effect Periodontal Disease Has On Your Health

November 10th, 2015

944335_blogPeriodontal disease can cause a number of problems to oral health, often leading to the need for treatment like dental implants if not properly taken care of. It leads to bad breath and a growing number of studies have found that it can also cause a loosened hold on teeth from the gums and the eventual loss of teeth.

The disease is usually brought on by poor dental health and is becoming an increasingly common risk to oral health worldwide. It can be hindered from both the dental studio and at home and many dentists are urging patients at risk of the disease or who already suffer from it to use additional oral cleaning equipment such as rinses, floss and tongue scrapers.

A study at Kyushu Dental College in Japan attempted to answer the question: “Does periodontitis cause halitosis or does it occur alongside oral odour?” Halitosis is another word for bad breath and can be caused by a number of things, including dry mouth or particular foods and potentially periodontitis.

The study was conducted by observing the oral health of those with periodontal disease and those without. 101 adults volunteered for the experiment and their oral health was inspected. The volunteers included those with good oral health and those with periodontal disease. Saliva samples were taken from each patient in an attempt to discover exactly how periodontitis and bad breath are related.

The study eventually discovered that the presence of the bacteria – bacteroides forsythus – in the main area of the mouth shows positive links to bad breath. The bacteria is usually only found underneath the gums of people suffering from advanced periodontal decay.

The discovery of the exact bacteria present in the mouth of a person suffering from periodontal disease should go a long way towards curing halitosis in those with the disease, with eventual hopes that a prevention of the disease can be found. If this is not the case treatment such as dental implants may be recommended.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in gums | Comments Off on The Effect Periodontal Disease Has On Your Health

Solve Tooth Loss with Dentures

November 6th, 2015

2433646_sDentures from Leeds dentists are practical solution to tooth loss

If you have suffered from an accident that caused you to lose your teeth, or you have been affected by prolonged dental decay that meant your teeth fell out, it is vital that you replace your teeth.  There are a number of reasons for this.  Having a full set of teeth makes eating so much easier because your teeth are ideal implements for chewing food so that it can be digested properly.  Having no teeth can spoil your appearance and lead to a loss of confidence, especially if your cheeks begin to sag, making you look older than you are.

One practical option in this case is to get your dentist to fit a set of dentures. Modern dentures can be extremely realistic looking and hard-wearing.  They can be removed for cleaning and are generally far more comfortable than they used to be.  Dentures are able to be held in place by the natural suction of your gums or by using a fixing agent.

Some people now prefer the more permanent solution of having replacement teeth fixed in place with dental implants.  It is possible that dentures can slip while you are eating, drinking or talking and this can be embarrassing, but techniques are improving all the time.  Innovations like friction-free dentures, for example, are changing the way that people think about dentures.

Looking for a cosmetic dentist? Leeds dentists are here to help

Restore your confidence and your ability to eat food with ease by asking your City Dental Leeds dentist about dentures today.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Dentures | Comments Off on Solve Tooth Loss with Dentures

Bridge a Missing Tooth Gap with a Dental Restoration

November 4th, 2015

Beautiful young lady smilingWhen a tooth, or number of teeth, are missing it can have a serious effect on a person’s self confidence. Dental bridges can be used to fill this gap with a single or set of restorations. This will not only help to improve a person’s self confidence but can also help to prevent the natural teeth from moving position.

How many types of bridge are there?

There are three main types of dental bridge and each is attached in a slightly different way. Traditional bridges will consist of three crowns linked together. The outer crowns are then cemented onto the teeth on either side of the gap.

Cantilever Crowns are very similar to a traditional bridge but will consist of only two crowns. This type of bridge only has one crown cemented onto an existing tooth.

Maryland Bridges do not have any crowns and are attached to the teeth on either side of the gap via a wing. This wing is bonded to the rear of the natural teeth to hold the bridge in place.

How long does the treatment take?

On average this form of treatment will take around 1 to 2 weeks to complete, with 2 visits to the dental professional. The length of treatment time is simply down to the time it takes to create the bridge and ensure that it is a perfect fit for each patient’s mouth.

How long do they last?

The estimated life span of a dental bridge is between 5 to 7 years. However if good oral hygiene is maintained it is not unusual for them to last 10 years or more.

Will it affect my ability to eat and speak?

No, eating will not be affected by the bridge. In fact, your bridge should make eating easier. In most cases, speech is not affected and even if it is, it is only temporary until your mouth becomes accustomed to the bridge.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in dental bridge | Comments Off on Bridge a Missing Tooth Gap with a Dental Restoration

Terrific Treatment for Tooth Decay

November 2nd, 2015

Happy buddies laughingThe dissolving of the outer layer of the teeth by the acids in the mouth is called tooth decay. Luckily there are multiple techniques available for patients in Leeds that can be used to deal with this condition.

Fluoride

Fluoride is the best option when it comes to preventing and stopping tooth decay. Fluoride can be found naturally in food such as tea and fish. It can also be manufactured and good toothpastes contain synthetic fluoride. If the decay is caught in the initial stage then the dentist will apply some concentrated fluoride varnish or paste to the affected area, which will stop the decay from spreading. However, if the decay has worn out the enamel then the dentist will remove the decay and use a filling to restore the tooth and prevent further decay.

Fillings and crowns

Fillings and crowns are used when the decay becomes extensive. The filling will be used as a replacement for the lost enamel. Various types of fillings are used, such as amalgam, composite, and glass ionomer. Inlays and onlays are also used for fillings.

In certain cases, part of the decayed tooth is drilled out and crowns will be placed on the remaining part of the tooth. Crowns can be made from gold, ceramic, glass and porcelain.

Root canal treatment

If the decay has reached the pulp of the teeth then the dentist will need to replace it with an artificial pulp, which will keep the tooth in place. This process is known as root canal treatment. With the help of modern dental techniques it has become relatively painless to received root canal treatment.

When the decay is in the final stages and the tooth is severely affected, the dentist will need to remove the tooth to protect the remaining teeth from infection. Once the tooth is removed an empty space will be left between the teeth, which can negatively affect the functioning and shape of the remaining teeth. In order to avoid this, the dentist will place a bridge, denture or implant in the empty area.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in oral hygeine | Comments Off on Terrific Treatment for Tooth Decay

The Rise of Cosmetic Dental Treatments

October 31st, 2015

18625010Some may argue that media portrayal of celebrities who have had cosmetic dentistry treatments such as porcelain veneers, promotes the rise in cosmetic dentistry. However, others may attribute the advancement of cosmetic dental care to innovations in cosmetic dentistry, such as CEREC technology, accessible financing or dental insurance plans, and an increase in the public’s health consciousness.

More individuals are becoming aware of the importance of a healthy, attractive appearance. Smile makeovers give impact for improving life opportunities by making us look refreshed and younger.

Veneers and whitening treatments

Smile makeovers gained popularity via the stars, however dentists such as those at City Dental Leeds aim to make cosmetic dental treatments available for everyone who wants to change their appearance. There are options in smile makeovers that include not only porcelain veneers, but invisible braces and facial rejuvenation treatments as well.

A smile makeover is any cosmetic dentistry treatment that aims to enhance natural beauty for a radiant and attractive smile. Porcelain veneers are a popular choice for masking tooth discolouration as an alternate to teeth whitening. Personalised smile designs with porcelain veneers may be used to give straightness to mildly misaligned teeth instead of wearing braces.

Braces treatment

Certain smile makeover treatments may be combined. For example, teeth may be straightened with invisible braces such as Invisalign, and whitened through power teeth whitening techniques.

Get in touch with us to learn about our options in cosmetic dental treatments and how we involve you in designing your own smile. We listen to your needs, provide personalised recommendations and financing options for having the smile you desire. Smile makeovers create stunning appearance and boost self-esteem for enjoyment of life.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in cosmetic dentistry | Comments Off on The Rise of Cosmetic Dental Treatments

How to Treat Bleeding Gums Effectively

October 30th, 2015

18625044Get expert diagnosis and treatment of bleeding gums from City of Leeds dentists

Bleeding gums can be a common occurrence when brushing your teeth or flossing.  If the problem persists then you should inform your dentist so that any problems can be dealt with.  Bleeding from the gums might be an early sign of tooth decay which, if not dealt with properly, can lead to tooth loss.

The most common form of gum disease is a condition known as gingivitis and can manifest itself with bleeding gums.  You ought to inform your dentist if this happens to you so that the problem can be treated.  Antibiotics might be required but in most cases it is necessary only to tighten up your home oral hygiene routine.

It is crucial that gingivitis is dealt with and eliminated because it can lead to periodontitis.  This is an advanced form of gum disease which causes the bones holding the teeth in place to become inflamed.  This can end in the loss of teeth themselves, a painful process which will likely involve invasive surgery.

Looking for a cosmetic dentist? Leeds dentists are here to help

As well as following advice in recommended home oral hygiene habits, you should also visit your City Dental Leeds dentist every six months so that your mouth can be examined.  If you find that your gums are bleeding then you should make an additional appointment rather than waiting for the next check up.  Bleeding gums might only be the result of you brushing with too much vigour, but it could signal that something worse is beginning to take hold and your dentist needs to be kept aware of such developments.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in gums | Comments Off on How to Treat Bleeding Gums Effectively

Easing the Pain of Dry Socket in Leeds

October 29th, 2015

3534882_blogLeeds dentists solve dry socket problems

Having a tooth extracted can unfortunately lead to some problems.  In roughly five percent of cases a condition called dry socket can develop.  This painful affliction affecting exposed bone is easily treated by your Leeds dentist, who will be able to identify the problem if it occurs after an extraction.

Dry socket can strike about two days after a tooth has been extracted.  Tooth removal always leaves the area a little sore but dry socket is noticeable because of the extra pain.  If blood does not clot properly in the area left exposed by the extraction then the bone can react badly to contact with air, food and drink. Clotting is your body’s natural procedure to protect wounds but sometimes the clot can become dislodged or fail to form at all.

There are several steps you can take to guard against dry socket.  If you are a smoker, it is important that you cease during the period immediately after a tooth extraction.  Smoking can disturb the blood clot and slow down the healing process.  Any activity involving excessive sucking can bring about dry socket so you are advised not to drink through a straw during recuperation.  The birth control pill can also bring about dry socket because it affect your body’s ability to clot.

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

Your City Dental Leeds dentist will be able to advise you about how to avoid dry socket but if it should occur it is easily rectified by applying medication at the site.  Continuation of your regular oral hygiene routine and being careful about how you treat your mouth in the aftermath of having a tooth extracted will, in most cases, prevent dry socket.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in general dentistry | Comments Off on Easing the Pain of Dry Socket in Leeds

« Older Entries
Newer Entries »

Our Team

Our Video

Our Transformations