If you are a new patient your dentist will probably suggest having x-rays (unless you have had some taken very recently).

Your teeth may look perfectly health but an x-ray will help the dentist to see whether there is any decay under the enamel, possible infections in the roots as well as any bone loss around your teeth.

X-rays allow the dentist to see between the teeth and under the edges of existing fillings. Any problems can be detected and treated at an early stage.

X-rays are an important part of your health record and must be kept with your personal dental file.

Regular scaling and polishing by your dentist or hygienist helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy and your smile whiter.

Scaling removes any hard tartar (formed by the presense of saliva, debris, minerals and plaque in the mouth) which cannot be removed by brushing alone. Tartar forms in pockets between the teeth and gums and has a rough surface which stains far more easily than natural teeth.

Plaque is the visible deposit that builds upon the tooth surface both above and below the gum line which causes inflammation of the gums and if left untreated can lead to gum recession.

Polishing removes the staining from coffee, tea, cigarettes or red wine.

Visiting the dentist or hygienist regularly and following a daily cleaning plan can help you to keep your teeth into your old age.

Catching a problem before there is too much damage can only be achieved if you visit the dentist regularly.

Why not contact the surgery on 0115 9602717 and make an appointment prevention really is the best cure.

The trend toward dental implants has grown rapidly over the past few years.

An implant involves having a screw surgically placed into your jaw bone to hold a replacement tooth or denture in place. The screw acts as a root for the tooth and fuses with the living bone to form a strong foundation onto which the crown, denture or bridge is placed.

There are many benefits to having replacement teeth fixed into your jawbone this way such as:
Improve your appearance and self confidence.
Eliminating the need for removable dentures completely.
Increased denture self confidence, improved speech, appearance and chewing ability.
Remove the need to involve adjacent teeth in the construction of a bridge therefore preserving healthy tooth tissue.

If you are considering dental implants then call the surgery on 0115 9602717 to make an appointment and find out more today.

With the cost of living soaring is it time you considered having some insurance to cover the cost of your dental care?

For a small amount each month you could cover the cost of all examinations, scale and polish and x-rays allowing you to make your appointments at a time convenient to yourself and not just dependent on pay dates and monthly budgeting.

The Denplan scheme offered within the pracice can be set up quickly and easily as soon as you are given the all clear by your dentist.

If you are interested in finding out more then ask your dentist for the options available to you at your next visit.

Please note: The scheme does not cover existing conditions requiring treatment.

Anyone can be affected by Mouth Cancer and it can begin in many different forms, for example a painless mouth ulcer that doesn’t heal normally or a white or red patch in the mouth.

Mouth Cancer can affect all parts of your mouth, tongue and lips.

It can often be detected early by your dentist during your routine examination. If cancer is recognised early then the chances of a complete cure are good. Many people go to their dentist or doctor too late.

Make sure your mouth stays healthy by following some simple steps:

Visit your dentist at least once a year for examinations even if you wear dentures.

Look out for any changes in your mouth and report any ulcers, red or white patches that have not cleared up within 3 weeks.

Remember to use a barrier cream on your lips when exposed to the sun.

A healthy diet rich in vitamins A, C and E provides protection from the development of mouth cancer. Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables to help your body protect itself.

Cut down on smoking and drinking.

REGULAR VISITS TO YOUR DENTIST COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE!!

Grinding your teeth in your sleep is very common, with many people not aware that they do this.

You may have woken up with discomfort or pain in your jaw, shoulders or neck and not known what may have caused it.

Your dentist will tell you if there is any abnormal wear and tear of your teeth and if grinding your teeth has damaged the enamel.

To prevent you from grinding your teeth your dentist may make you a night guard to wear. This is an appliance that keeps the teeth apart and allows the muscles to relax in a normal position.

If you feel that this might be a problem that you are experiencing visit your dentist who will be happy to advise on the best solution for you.

You should thoroughly remove plaque from your teeth (and dentures if you wear them)at least twice a day.

You need a small headed medium texture toothbrush and flouride toothpaste.

To clean between your teeth use Interdental brushes, tape or floss at least once every day. Your dentist or hygienist will recommend the best product to suit you.

Electric Toothbrushes are very effective for removing plaque and are also ideal for people who find it difficult to grip a manual toothbrush handle.

Cut down on how often you have sugary food and drinks.

To check how effectively you are removing plaque from your teeth use a Disclosing Tablet after you usual brushing. This will stain any remaining plaque with a harmless dye showing you any areas which need closer attention.

A further brushing will remove the stained plaque.

Visit your dentist and hygienist regularly.

Periodontal disease is inflammation of the tissues which support teeth and attach them to the jaw. The disease occurs in 3 stages Gingivitis, Periodontitis and Advanced Periodontitis.

Gingivitis – Plaque and Bacteria cause the gums to become red and swollen and bleed easily. Small pockets occur where plaque gets into the space between the tooth and the gum. Good oral care and visits to the hygienist are usually enough to restore healthy gums.

Periodontitis – Over time left untreated the disease spreads below the gumline and the inflammation reaches the bone causing deeper pockets and bone loss. Treatment at this stage is aimed at preventing further damage.

Advanced Periodontitis – As the bone is destroyed teeth become loose and the pockets become deeper, abscesses can occur. Sometimes the gum shrinks and part of the root is exposed. Periodontitis may reach the advanced stages without causing pain.

It is important to visit the dentist regularly for advice on how to look after your teeth and gums.

Many people suffer from sensitive teeth which can mean anything from getting a slight twinge to having severe discomfort that can continue for several hours.

Sensitivity can start at any time and can be an early warning sign of a more serious dental problem.

Some causes of sensitivity may be:

Toothbrush abrasion – caused by brushing too hard.
Dental erosion – a loss of tooth enamel caused by acidic food and drinks.
Gum recession – gums can naturally recede exposing the roots of the tooth.
Gum disease – where tartar and the build up of plaque cause gums to recede down the tooth and can destroy the support of a tooth.
Grinding your teeth – a habit which can damage the enamel of the tooth.
A cracked tooth or filling.

Using a sensitive toothpaste twice a day to brush your teeth may ease the pain of sensitive teeth.

If you would like more help or advice on sensitivity then why not contact the surgery and make an appointment to discuss this with your dentist.