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Archive for July, 2012

Get Back your Bite with Dental Implants from Leeds Dentist

Tuesday, July 31st, 2012

When you are missing several teeth if becomes impossible to install bridges. For many people dentures are a lot of work. This leaves dental implants as the best possibility for replacing a number of missing teeth. Dental implants are permanent and will last many, many years since they are often made of titanium. Implants have the advantage of have removable attachments which allow the exposed area of the artificial tooth to be replaced easily and conveniently whenever it is necessary.

The decision to get implants should not be taken lightly and should involve a consultation with your Leeds dentist to make sure the procedure is the best for you. It is hard to reverse a dental implant, and so once they are inserted they need to stay put. Implants are screwed directly into your jaw bone and become bonded with the surrounding living material, making extraction very difficult. But the great advantage is an extremely strong connection between tooth line and whatever type of false tooth that you want to attach to the top.

The procedure will likely be fairly long and the recovery may involve several weeks of discomfort. The rewards though may change your life. You will not have to worry about removing your dentures and you will not need to worry about the eventually degradation of other ‘permanent’ dental features. At your next check up ask your dentist whether implants may be right for you.

 

City of Leeds Dentist can Eliminate Sensitive Teeth.

Monday, July 30th, 2012

Sensitive teeth can make your life incredibly uncomfortable. Food and the weather can be enough to make your teeth sting with sensitivity. The sensitivity of your teeth should not be dismissed, if your teeth are sensitive it is likely that it is pointing towards a more serious problem. Most people experience it at some point and there are preventative measures and treatment options that can help when it occurs.

Sensitive teeth are caused by the exposure of the central dentin of your teeth. Dentin is found under the hard outer shell of the enamel. Sensitivity generally then means that the enamel has been worn away and exposed the dentin. This can happen for several reason: tooth decay, acid erosion, gum recession, gum disease, physical damage. Depending on the cause, your City of Leeds dentist will be able to offer you some solutions. While there are some short terms fixes, it is best if you deal with the root of the problem to solve it permanently. Cavities caused by tooth decay can be filled or crowned, gum disease can cleared and physical damage can be bonded. Addressing these underlying issues will likely, with time, reduce or remove your sensitivity.

The best defence against sensitive teeth it to be highly vigilant about dental hygiene. Brushing your teeth with fluoride tooth paste designed for sensitive teeth is the best preventative measure. Flossing will also protect you from many of the causes. Speak to you dentist if you need further advice about how to avoid it and how to treat it when sensitivity occurs.

Protect Yourself from Teeth Grinding with Help from Your Central Leeds Dentist

Sunday, July 29th, 2012

Known medically as ‘bruxism’, teeth grinding may seem harmless but can cause serious long term damage to your dental health. Caused by many different factors, it is often difficult to figure out exactly why some people grind their teeth on a regular basis. Although we all grind our teeth at times (it’s part of chewing to an extent) when we do it constant and regularly there can be significant problems.

Teeth grinding will often occur at distinct times for different people: either awake or asleep. You may not be aware you are doing it while you sleep, though your partner may be able to hear the grinding if it is particularly bad. It is difficult to pin point where the subconscious instinct to grind your teeth comes from but it is often linked with stress levels. If it becomes severe your dentist may recommend using a mouth guard at night which will protect your teeth from the constant grind.

When awake it can become habitual instinct to grind your teeth with stress, anxiety or concentration. Mouth guards are obviously much less convenient when awake and so the best method is self-control and trying to becoming consciously aware of when you are doing it.

Your Central Leeds dentist will be able to offer some solutions for teeth grinding. Due to it be a mainly psychological instinct a lot of treatments involve conditioning yourself to stop or training yourself to become aware. Seek help for the problem before your teeth begin to wear away and you will save yourself a lot of dental work that could be avoided.

Tooth Decay Can Destroy Your Teeth. Seek Help from Your Leeds Dentist Before it is Too Late

Saturday, July 28th, 2012

The second most widespread disease in America, tooth decay is also referred to as dental caries or dental cavities. It is more often than not an infection that is caused by bacteria. Lactobacillus is one type of bacteria that is well known for causing tooth decay. Another such example is Lactobacillus. The infection causes demineralization of the enamel, then dentin, as well as cementum of the tooth, referred to as the hard tissues of the tooth.

The worst cases of tooth decay result in visible holes in the teeth and may result in the loss of the tooth. Severe cases of tooth decay will cause a lot of pain for the patient. Mild cases of tooth decay can be treated easily by your dentist in Leeds, and patients may not even be aware that they have tooth decay. This is why it is important to visit your dentist for regular check ups, as tooth decay is best treated early on.

A fluoride treatment may be all that is required for the mildest instances. However, depending on the severity of the case, you may need fillings, veneers, or a dental implant. Preventative measures against tooth decay include practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist on a regular basis for cleanings and check ups. Certain types of medications may make you more vulnerable to tooth decay. If you have any concerns regarding tooth decay, consult your medical professional.

Inman Aligners from Your City of Leeds Dentist Quickly and Comfortably Straighten Your Teeth

Friday, July 27th, 2012

Inman aligners are a new, patented technology that may be able to straighten your teeth in just 8 weeks. Whether your teeth were crooked from birth or you’ve suffered a physical injury, Inman aligners can help give you the perfectly straight smile that you want. The earlier in your life that you can have them fitted the easier and more effective they are likely to be. If used in your teenage years as your teeth are still developing, they are able to guide your teeth into the perfect position that allows them to function fully and look beautiful.

Inman aligners use a very small nickel spring that puts constant pressure on your teeth, pushing them in to the correct position over several months. The aligners are removable and should be taken out when eating; you may also remove them for social occasion if you wish as long as you are wearing them for the rest of the day. Unlike some types of braces these are not permanently attached to your teeth. Each set will be made to fit your unique set of teeth. The procedure for fitting may take several visits as your City of Leeds dentist takes moulds, sends off the shape and waits for the product to be made. After they have been fitted you will be called back to the dentist at regular intervals just to check that they are comfortable and tight enough to be having an effect.

Since every person’s teeth are unique you will need to speak to your local dentist to see what is the best method of teeth straightening for you. Inman aligners are a very effective treatment that have and will help many people get their best smile.

No Need to Feel Self-Conscious about Your Smile Anymore with Invisible Braces from Central Leeds Dentist

Thursday, July 26th, 2012

Whether child, teenager or adult, having to wear braces can be an embarrassing experience. Invisible braces can now give you the dental benefits of braces while hiding the fact you wear braces. Permanently fixed braces are not now the necessarily best option for everyone. Your Central Leeds dental practice can offer a range of braces that will fit your unique needs, ask them if invisible braces may be right for you.

New types of invisible braces are made of clear plastic that is moulded to your exact specifications, meaning they blend right in with your natural appearance. They are normally removable and so can be removed when eating or for important social events. It is very important though that you wear them on average 22 hours a day in order to have the desired effect. As with all braces it is necessary to wear invisible braces for a minimum of several months and up to a year or two. The length of time it takes to have a permanent effect is largely dependent on the original position of the teeth and how much adjustment they need.

The fitting of invisible braces does not take too long but may take a few visits to your dentist. They will first consult with you on exactly what type of braces would be right for you. They will then need to take moulds, x-rays and photographs in order for the braces to be made to the exact shape and size of your teeth. The dentist will the fit them and likely ask you to return in a month or two to check whether they need any adjustments.

 

Root Canal Treatment from Leeds Dentist can Save Your Teeth

Wednesday, July 25th, 2012

Root canal treatment is available in order to save your teeth when you have been suffering from an infection in the centre of a tooth. Both naturally occurring and foreign, there is always some bacteria in your mouth. If you do not maintain good oral hygiene the bacteria can spread. If you also suffer from tooth decay cavities can develop in your teeth. If bacteria manages to travel into these cavities there is a great risk that the root of you tooth will become infected.

The root canal goes from the dental pulp to the end of the root. The pulp fills the inside of the tooth and is normally protected by a layer or dentin and enamel. Pulp is soft tissue and as such can become infected if not properly cared for. If this does occur root canal treatment may be the only option.

The treatment involves your dentist drilling down into the pulp and removing all infected areas of the tooth. If the bacteria can be successful removed there is a chance that the tooth can be saved but it will be necessary to have the tooth filled or crowned in order to stop any more foreign material getting back into the tooth and reinfecting. If the infection has become very severe your  dentist may decide it is the best strategy to remove the tooth completely and not risk the infection spreading any further.

Your Leeds dentist will be able talk you through the entire procedure. To prevent the need for root canal treatment you should regularly brushing and floss your teeth. This will prevent the development of cavities so any infection that does occur cannot spread to the centre of the tooth.

 

Bad Breath? Tooth ache? Consult Your City of Leeds Dentist about Gum Disease

Tuesday, July 24th, 2012

Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss. Even though your actual teeth may remain healthy, gum disease can damage the gum and roots so badly that the root of the tooth dies and is unable to support the tooth, at which point they may become loss and fall out.

Gum disease is experienced by many people. The most noticeable symptom is the inflammation and tenderness of the gums, this is called gingivitis. You may also find that your gums bleed very easily when eating or brushing your teeth. Bad breath (‘halitosis’) may also accompany gum disease. Gingivitis will developing into periodontitis if it is not treated. It is at this point when the roots begin to die and you are at very great risk of losing your teeth.

The best way to combat gum disease is with regular brushing and flossing of your teeth. Using a soft bristled brush will allow you to clean along your gums without doing any damage to them. When flossing you should be sure to gently run the floss up above the gum line to remove any food or plaque that may have become lodged up there.

If you fear that you may be suffering from gum disease it is best to visit your City of Leeds dentist as soon as possible for an expert opinion. There are several treatment options that can be offered, varying in severity depending on the individual cases. As always prevention is better than cure, so keeping brushing and flossing and you will likely never have to deal with gum disease.

 

Discuss the Importance of Oral Hygiene with Your Central Leeds Dentist

Monday, July 23rd, 2012

Good oral hygiene is what stands between your confident, bright, white smile and an awkward, crooked grin. Taking care of your teeth throughout your life will pay dividends as your teeth stay healthy and strong. It is important that a good oral hygiene routine is developed at an early age when your teeth are still developing.

Your Central Leeds dentist recommends that you brush your teeth twice a day, three times if possible. Brushing your teeth removes all the food particles and plaque that build up on your teeth and can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Flossing is equally a vital part of keeping healthy teeth. Flossing before brushing clears out the spaces between your teeth which can then be washed out by the fluoride tooth paste as you brush. Together doing these is the minimum and will protect you from the majority of dental problems.

Without good oral hygiene you may suffer from cavities which grow until the tooth is painful and unusable. If the cavities become infected it may be necessary to remove the tooth altogether and replace it with artificial alternatives. Although there are many good false teeth now available, none of them are equal to your natural teeth. Gum disease is also be a major cause of tooth loss, and can be avoided by flossing above the gum line and using a fluoride tooth paste. Visit your dentist frequently in order to catch any problems before they fully develop.

If you have any questions about maintain good oral hygiene ask your local dentist who will be happy to give you plenty of advice on how to stay healthy.

Are Dental Crowns Right for You? Ask Your Local Leeds Dentist

Sunday, July 22nd, 2012

Dental crowns are essential tool in the dentist arsenal of treatments. Whether you have cavities due to tooth decay or have suffered a physical injury to a tooth, crowns may be able to help you regain full use of your tooth. Many people these days use crowns because they are so effective at protecting teeth and restoring function.

The procedure is very straight forward and your Leeds dentist will be able to do it quickly and painlessly, though it may take a couple of visits. The first visit your dentist will x-ray your teeth to fully discover the extent of any damage, from this they will be able to assess the necessity of a crown. If a crown is needed your dentist will create a custom fitted crown to your specifications and unique tooth shape. Depending on the tooth, crowns are normally made of porcelain and metal composites or gold.

While custom crowns are being produced, your dentist may decide to affix a temporary crown that can last several weeks or even months. With a temporary crown it is advised that you do not eat tough food that may pull the crown out of its position. Once you have your permanent crown in position you will be able to return to your normal diet and eat everything normally.

Crowns are a very strong and durable dental treatment and can last up to 15 years. With a crown it is as important as ever to keep maintaining good dental health. Brush twice and a day and regularly floss, including around your new crown, this will make sure that the tooth and crown stay healthy for many years.