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No Wires, Straight Teeth – How Invisalign can help you

May 3rd, 2017

shutterstock_449324422Did you always think that to have a gorgeous smile you had to sport a mouth full of metal or put up with painful wires and brackets? If you’ve shied away from orthodontic treatment in the past, we have good news! With Invisalign, we can create incredible smiles without a wire in sight.

About Invisalign

Invisalign is a clear brace system, which uses a sequence of removable plastic braces to reposition and realign the teeth. These braces are not like your average fixed brace. They are completely different, and they give you the opportunity to enjoy treatment in secret. When the transparent braces are in place, they are virtually undetectable, and as they are removable, you can get on with life as normal. You don’t have to worry about brushing around brackets or trying to make sure food doesn’t get stuck in your teeth while you’re eating.

What does Invisalign treatment involve?

Invisalign treatment is unlike fixed brace treatment because it employs a series of aligners, rather than a single appliance. Each patient’s treatment is planned in advance, and you will receive a set of aligners, which must be worn in a specific order. Each aligner is worn for two weeks. As you get closer to the end of the sequence, you should notice that your smile looks straighter, but the full effects won’t be visible until you remove that final aligner.

The benefits of Invisalign

Many people are put off braces by the idea of having lots of metal parts in their mouths and the assumption that wearing braces is painful and uncomfortable. With Invisalign, you don’t have to worry about discomfort or metal components. These aligners are made entirely from high-grade plastic and they use gentle forces to move the teeth. Initially, it may take you a couple of days to get used to wearing your Invisalign aligners, but you’ll soon be wearing them without even noticing.

To find out more about Invisalign, give us a ring or pop in and see us today!

Did you Know There Are Smaller Dental Implants?

May 1st, 2017

shutterstock_331993526Sometimes, traditional dental implants are not suitable for patients due to a lack of strong tissue in the jawbone. If there isn’t enough dense jaw bone tissue, the implant may fail. It is possible to carry out bone grafting, but another option that may be recommended is mini implants. As you may have guessed from the name, mini implants are smaller versions of traditional implants. They are often a viable solution for patients who have been advised against having standard implants.

What exactly are mini implants?

Dental implants are small titanium rods, which are similar to screws. They are implanted into sockets in the jaw bone and their role is to act as a new root. Once the artificial root has integrated into the bone tissue, a new tooth can be attached. The tooth crown is replaced by a crown, a bridge or a denture. Mini implants are essentially the same as traditional implants, but they are smaller, and that makes them easier to tolerate. If you don’t have dense tissue in the jaw bone, it may not be possible for your jaw to support a standard implant, but a mini implant may represent a brilliant alternative.

Mini implants are most commonly used to support a denture, and they can offer increased stability, improved functionality and amazing aesthetics. With a normal denture, the appliance is held by the natural suction of the gums, but with implants, the denture is stabilised by artificial roots. This means that there is no risk of the denture coming loose and you can enjoy complete peace of mind. It also enhances the strength of the denture, so you don’t need to worry about changing your diet.

If you’d like to find out more about mini implants, or you’re keen to see if you’re a viable candidate for treatment, get in touch with us today!

Comparing Lingual Braces to Clear Braces: Invisible Teeth Solutions

April 28th, 2017

shutterstock_571079539If you’re thinking about braces, and you’re keen to go for something discreet, you may be wondering whether clear braces or lingual braces are your best bet. Today, there are so many incredible treatment options out there, and lots of patients are spoiled for choice. If you’re weighing up your options, here is some useful information about our incredible invisible braces.

Clear Braces

Clear braces are a very popular option as many people don’t want to show off a bulky brace when they smile. If you want the convenience of a removable brace, as well as being able to undergo treatment in secret, systems like Invisalign are a good choice. Invisalign aligners are suitable for those with moderate orthodontic problems and they’re great for patients who don’t want to worry about anyone else knowing that they’ve got braces. Invisalign aligners are made from transparent plastic, and they’re really easy to incorporate into your daily life. You can take them out when you need to eat or clean your teeth, so you don’t have to adapt your daily routine in any way. If you would prefer a fixed brace, discreet options include Damon Braces and Six Month Smiles. These braces are a lot more discreet than traditional metal fixed braces, but they are visible, and if you dream of going incognito, lingual braces are probably your best bet.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are fixed braces, which also offer you the chance to have treatment without anyone else knowing. These braces are attached to the back of your teeth, so nobody will be able to see them when you smile. Lingual braces are finer and more delicate than traditional fixed braces and they use innovative technology to prevent friction and minimise pain. We offer STb Social 6 lingual braces, which are designed for minor orthodontic misalignment. Treatment is rapid, as it focuses on the social 6, the teeth at the front of the mouth. Typically, cases can be completed within 6-16 weeks.

If you’re interested in invisible orthodontic solutions, we can help! Call us now to find out more!

Know the Signs of Oral Cancer: Common Symptoms To Look For

April 27th, 2017

shutterstock_482648263The number of cases of oral cancer diagnosed in the UK has risen by over a third in the last ten years, but many people ae still unaware of the warning signs. Do you know the symptoms of oral cancer? If you don’t, you’ve come to the right place.

What are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?

Even though oral cancer has become increasingly common, many people still don’t know what kinds of symptoms they should be looking out for, and this means that many cases are diagnosed at a ate stage when treatment is much less likely to be successful. To improve survival rates, it’s essential that more people know about the potential warning signs of oral cancer. These include:

  • Abnormal swelling in the mouth or lumps in the mouth or throat
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Unexplained oral bleeding or pain in the mouth or throat
  • Persistent sore throat
  • Red or white patches in the mouth
  • Sores or ulcers that take longer than 2 weeks to heal
  • Numbness in the mouth
  • Unexplained weight loss

If you notice any of these symptoms, see your GP as quickly as possible. It’s very unlikely that there is anything to worry about, but it’s always best to be on the safe side.

Reducing your Risk of Oral Cancer

The most common risk factors for oral cancer are smoking and drinking regularly. If you’re a smoker and a heavy drinker, you’re more than 30 times more likely to develop oral cancer than a non-smoker who rarely drinks. Other risk factors include a poor diet lacking in nutrients, and exposure to the HPV (human papilloma virus).

It may not be possible to prevent oral cancer, but seeing your dentist on a regular basis will help to ensure that any symptoms are detected early. Your dentist is trained to spot early warning signs, and they can refer you for further tests at a stage when treatment is much more likely to be successful.

If you’re worried about oral cancer, or you’d like to find out more, don’t hesitate to call us today.

Did You Know We Can Fill Gaps in your Teeth?

April 25th, 2017

shutterstock_423542674Have you got missing teeth or have you recently lost a tooth? We understand that losing a tooth can be distressing, and we have a range of treatments ready and waiting to restore your smile and your confidence. Here are our incredible tooth replacement options:

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are commonly used to replace individual missing teeth, but they can also be used to restore the smile when multiple teeth have been lost. The most common type of bridge is a traditional fixed bridge, which comprises a false tooth, which is fused to a crown on either side. The bridge is custom-designed to fit the gap perfectly, and you can choose from materials, including porcelain, for an incredibly natural aesthetic. We can fit bridges in just two appointments, which are usually held around 2 weeks apart. Bridges are more affordable than implants, but they don’t last as long. Having said that, if you care for your bridge well, you should find that it lasts around 10-15 years.

Dentures

Dentures are a tried and tested tooth replacement method. They enable you to carry out all the functions you take for granted when you have a set of healthy natural teeth, and they come in partial and full sets. Dentures are bespoke, as every patient is individual, and modern versions are very natural looking and comfortable. Dentures are not a permanent solution, but they can be made quickly, and they enable you to eat, smile and talk with confidence.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are the newest kid on the block when it comes to tooth replacement methods. Implants are usually made from titanium, and they replace the root section of your natural tooth. The implant integrates into the jaw bone in the same way as the root, enabling it to offer the same level of stability and anchorage. Once the implant has settled, it can then be attached to a denture, a bridge or a crown. As it is compatible with a diverse range of restorations, the implant is the most versatile option and it can benefit patients with any number of missing teeth.

To find out more and compare treatment options, call us today and book a consultation.

Top Three Tips to Protect Teeth While Exercising

April 21st, 2017

shutterstock_173963588Exercise has a wealth of benefits for your body and mind, but it can pose a risk to your teeth. Fast-paced activities offer carry a risk of injury, and it’s always a good idea to protect your mouth whenever possible. Here are 3 top tips to help you protect your teeth when you’re playing sport.

  1. Wear a mouth guard: mouth guards are specifically designed to protect the teeth from injury. They are plastic shields, which are custom-made. They slide over the teeth, providing a barrier between the teeth and objects, surfaces and other people. If you do get hit or struck in the mouth, there’s a much lower risk of damage if you’re wearing a mouth guard. Mouth guards are also known as gum shields and they are worn by participants in rugby, hockey, lacrosse, martial arts and fighting sports like boxing and wrestling.
  2. Use a helmet: in some cases, sports carry a risk of injury to the head, as well as the mouth, and it’s wise to wear a helmet to reduce the risk of head, facial and dental injuries. Examples including close fielding in cricket and American football.
  3. Check the pH of the pool: if you swim on a regular basis, it’s worth checking the pH of the pool. If the pH is too low, and the water is too acidic, there’s a higher risk of swimmer’s calculus, which is caused by acid erosion of the enamel. It’s best to try and keep your mouth closed when you’re swimming and to avoid swallowing the water.

Four Steps To Fresher Breath

April 20th, 2017

shutterstock_552265822Bad breath is not just a dental health issue, it can also cause people to feel embarrassed and ashamed. If you suffer from bad breath, it can knock your confidence and make you feel very uncomfortable in certain situations. If you long for fresher breath, follow these four simple steps:

  1. Focus on dental hygiene: the best way to beat bad breath is to adopt a good daily oral hygiene routine. You should brush twice a day for at least 2 minutes each time using fluoride toothpaste. It also helps to floss daily.
  2. Clean your tongue: many people assume that they only need to clean their teeth, but it’s actually hugely beneficial to brush your tongue too. Many cases of bad breath are associated with bacteria, which gathers on the tongue and releases odorous gases. You can use your normal toothbrush or buy a tongue scraper from a chemist or your dental practice.
  3. Chew gum: many people find that they get bad breath after eating and drinking and chewing gum can help to banish this issue. Make sure you choose sugar-free gum, and chew for 1-2 minutes after eating. This will help to freshen your breath and reduce your risk of decay, as chewing stimulates saliva production. This cleanses your mouth and reduces acidity.
  4. See your dental hygienist: we all know that it’s essential to see our dentist every 6-9 months, but when was the last time you booked a session with the dental hygienist? If you’re prone to bad breath, this is a great idea. Hygienists are experts in oral hygiene, and they will tackle stubborn plaque and tartar deposits, giving you healthy, bright teeth and clean, fresh breath.

If you’re worried about bad breath, don’t struggle in silence. We are here to help, so give us a call today!

The Root Canal, Explained

April 18th, 2017

shutterstock_402395935We often see people recoil in horror and anxiety when we mention the words root canal. The truth is that root canal treatment has something of a bad reputation, which is largely unjustified. This procedure is often feared by patients, but it is actually a very useful and important treatment, which can make the difference between losing and saving a tooth.

About Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is used to treat a decayed or infected tooth. This procedure is called upon when an infection has reached the tooth pulp. The pulp is the living tissue. It contains the nerves ad blood vessels and once it becomes decayed or damaged, there is every chance that the tooth will die and infection will spread. Root canal therapy is a procedure designed to stem the spread of infection and prevent tooth loss.

Before root canal treatment, the tooth is numbed completely using local anaesthetic. This will help to ensure that you don’t experience any pain during the procedure. Your dentist will drill into the tooth to access the root canals, the part of the tooth that contains the pulp. Your dentist will clear away the decayed tissue, disinfect and clean the tooth thoroughly and then stuff the root canals using a material called gutta percha. Once this has been done, the root canals will be sealed, and a new crown may be fitted.

Is root canal treatment painful?

This is the most common question patients have about root canal therapy. Many assume that they’re going to have to endure awful pain while they have treatment and cope with discomfort when they return home. The truth is that you shouldn’t find this procedure painful at all, as it is carried out under local anaesthetic. If you do have discomfort once the effects of the anaesthetic have worn off at home, we recommend taking over the counter pain relief medication. We have an expert team of dentists at City Dental Leeds, and we promise that you’re in the best hands. If you’re anxious, we are here to help and reassure you at every stage of the process.

Five Tips To Protect Your Braces

April 14th, 2017

shutterstock_449128402When you wear braces, it’s important to look after them to make sure that they do their job and you can enjoy a perfectly straight smile when treatment draws to a close. If you have braces, here are 5 tips to help you protect them:

  1. Wear a mouth guard: if you’re playing contact sports, wear a mouth guard to protect your braces and your teeth and gums. You can get specially made guards for braces from your dentist.
  2. Avoid hard foods: if you’re wearing braces, you won’t have to make wholesale changes to your diet, but it’s wise to bear a few tips in mind, especially avoiding hard foods. Most foods will be fine, but take care when eating things like boiled sweets, popcorn and crusty bread rolls.
  3. Keep your braces clean: if you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment and you’ve got a fixed brace, you need to keep it clean as possible to minimise the risk of dental decay. Clean your teeth at least twice a day, and make sure you do a thorough job each time. It can be beneficial to take a brush around with you so that you can brush after eating if you find that food tends to get stuck in your braces.
  4. Keep up to date with dental checks: if you have braces, it’s more important than ever to keep up to date with dental checks and follow-up appointments. Your dentist can keep an eye on your oral health, as well as the progress of your treatment.
  5. Use additional cleaning methods: brushing is often the most effective means of cleaning the mouth, but it’s also useful to floss or clean using an oral irrigator. If you need advice or help with cleaning, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist.

No Braces, Straighter Teeth: How Componeers can Transform Your Smile

April 11th, 2017

shutterstock_580932871Do you have crooked or wonky teeth? Would you love a straight smile? Are you reluctant to have braces? If you’ve answered yes to these questions, you’re in luck! With Componeers, we can give you a gorgeous smile without the need for orthodontic treatment.

Tell me more about Componeers!

Componeers are a type of veneer, which is made from dental composite, rather than ceramics like porcelain. Composite is a versatile tooth-coloured material, which is also used for white fillings and dental bonding. Componeers are actually defined as nano-hybrid composite enamel shells, and they have numerous advantages. For starters, Componeers can be bonded directly onto the tooth surface, which means that you can enjoy your new smile after just one session. These veneers are also significantly less expensive than traditional porcelain veneers, and the structure of the tooth remains intact, as minimal preparation is required. Your dentist will design a smile that looks natural and radiant, and you won’t have to worry about wonky teeth any longer.

Componeers are pre-fabricated in Switzerland, and they are available in an array of shades, shapes and sizes. This means that, as the patient, you can get involved in designing your new smile by working with your dentist to select the perfect Componeers.

Who can benefit from Componeers?

Almost anyone who has concerns about the aesthetic appeal of their teeth can benefit from Componeers. This treatment offers a solution for those who don’t have perfectly aligned teeth, as well as those who have stained or discoloured teeth, chips or uneven edges.

If you like the sound of a straight smile without the need for braces, and you’d like to find out more about Componeers at City Dental Leeds, call us today to make an appointment for a consultation. Your incredible new smile could be just days away!