Friday 30 August 2019

The Crazy World of Teeth

There are several similarities between our teeth and those of animals. As humans, we form two sets of teeth over the course of our lifetime, starting with baby teeth that are then replaced by adult teeth. On average, every person should have around 32 teeth in total; this includes four wisdom teeth, eight incisors, four canines, twelve molars and eight premolars. Similarly, many animals have a variety of these same kinds of teeth, depending on whether they are meat eaters, plant eaters, insect eaters or a combination. Both us and animals have teeth that are very strong and amazingly constructed, made up of a mix of calcium, phosphorus, and other assorted minerals. Beavers also have massive amounts of iron in their teeth, resulting in their teeth having a strong orange colour but helping to keep the teeth strong enough to gnaw on trees.  



The Massive

With the wide variety of diets and lifestyles that animals live, there are several who have a very interesting and unique dental structure. Hippos have many hidden teeth. Though on first glance it may seem that they only have 4 big teeth, they commonly have 40 in total. Hippos also have the longest canine teeth of any animal, reaching up to 3 ft long. Their incisors are capable of biting right through a small boat.


Amongst the many fascinating creatures out there, Narwhals are truly intriguing. They are born with a horn on top of their head which is actually a tooth that can grow to 8 feet or longer. Narwhals use their horn to taste and measure the concentration of chemicals in the water around it in order to find food.

The Many 

Animals like giraffes, dogs and cats have a similar number of teeth to us, but some animals have even more. Like humans, there are many creatures that also lose their teeth throughout their life, for example elephants and sharks. Elephants can have four sets of teeth in their lifetime and their tusks are the longest teeth in the world.


Similarly, Sharks can have over 30,000 teeth in their entire lifetime and on average lose one tooth a week, which is then replaced with a fresh new tooth. Sharks also don’t get cavities because their teeth are protected with a layer of fluoride. The main difference is that unlike humans, they never stop producing new teeth. But for us, our adult teeth are all that we get, which means that we have to take good care of them. On the other hand, Dolphins only have one set of teeth for the entirety of their life and just like humans, they need to take care of the teeth they have too.

The Maintenance 

Animals have their own ways to care for their teeth, just like us, ensuring they stay healthy and free of cavities or other issues. But unlike humans, animal diets are naturally low in sugar and therefore are less likely to develop severe teeth problems. Some animals like zebras, beavers, squirrels and other rodents have teeth that never stop growing. They chew on tough foods like nuts, leaves and bark, which helps to wear down their teeth and keep them from growing too long. In fact, most animals have a habit of chewing on materials like bone or tree bark which helps to keep their teeth clean and healthy.


Just like animals who are naturally proactive at cleaning and taking care of their teeth, we need to make sure that we are doing the same. Due to the commonly high amount of sugar in our diets, our teeth are extremely vulnerable, and it is very important to clean thoroughly and with care several times a day. It is also a good idea to have regular check ups with your dentist, in order to prevent any serious issues from arising and causing long term problems and hassle.

Don’t take your teeth for granted, because it’s the only set you get. Midlands Smile Centres is here to guide and help you along your dental journey, providing you with the right treatments and offering you the support you need.

Friday 23 August 2019

Can Poor Oral Hygiene Cause Dementia?


Although most of us are probably aware that a good standard of oral hygiene is crucially important to us, research has been carried-out to explore the connection between tooth loss and dementia. The findings of this research may be an indication that taking extra care with your dental health is advisable, as not doing so could result in severe mental issues.


A study conducted between 2007-2012 by researchers at Kyushu University, Japan and published in the peer-reviewed Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, retrieved results showing that 180 (11.5%) of the 1,500 people participating in the study developed some form of dementia. Exploring these results further in specific detail, the results show that subjects who had between 10 and 19 teeth were at a 62% higher risk of suffering from dementia, those who had just 1-9 teeth had an 81% greater chance of developing dementia and individuals with no teeth at all seemed to be at a 63% increased risk of dementia.

Responding to the Findings
The researchers responsible for this study have also commented that these findings are representative of the fact that ensuring that your teeth remain at a good standard of health is a means of reducing the chance of developing dementia. The researchers have also suggested reasons as to why it might be that tooth loss is related to the development of dementia, highlighting the way that the flow of blood to the brain could be stimulated through chewing, or that those with a full-set of teeth may have a healthier diet. They also referred to the idea that inflammation as a result of gum disease or long-term tooth decay could possibly make it more likely for someone to suffer from Alzheimer’s disease.


How Does This Study Help Us?
This study draws attention to various issues, but it is also worth stressing that the limited nature of this study makes it difficult to be convinced of the connection between poor oral health and the development of dementia. These limitations are primarily the low number of people studied in the research and the small amount of people who were recorded as having dementia.

The NHS has highlighted that the fact that, according to research that has been carried-out elsewhere, it is likely that there are actually many potential causes for dementia and that the study conducted by researchers at Kyushu University fails to convince us of the direct relationship between tooth loss and dementia. 

On the Positive Side
However, given that this study underlines the connection that exists between oral health and a person’s overall health, it does reaffirm the importance of making every effort to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.


To maintain the health of your teeth and gums, it is important to follow these important oral health tips:
  • Brush your teeth at least twice every day
  • It is preferable to brush with an electric toothbrush
  • Floss at least once every day
  • Use mouthwash
  • Scrub your tongue
  • Chew sugar-free gum after every meal
  • Have regular dental check-ups.

There are plenty of other tips relevant to keeping teeth and gums healthy that you should know about; check our dental tips page for more.

MSC-Midlands Smile Centres
For keeping teeth at their best and for the regular dental visits that you need, placing yourself in the expert hands of MSC is the ideal option for you. With their various practices situated across Birmingham, Midlands Smile Centres are easily accessible and can provide an array of different treatment types. From implants and orthodontics to cosmetic dentistry and even facial aesthetics, the friendly, helpful and vastly experienced team at MSC will make your smile their priority.


Contact MSC today and learn what we can do for you!!

Wednesday 7 August 2019

4 Unconventional Ways to Clean Teeth


Although the importance of good dental health is something that doesn’t change around the world, the methods used to ensure teeth and gums stay in good condition do. This blog looks at methods for taking care of teeth that you may not have known about, and how utilising the more familiar techniques for daily dental health is a real boost to teeth, gums and your all-round smile.

Miswak

One slightly less familiar technique of cleaning teeth and gums is the use of an implement known as a miswak. The miswak is often used in the Middle East as well as within regions of South and Southeast Asia. It is a twig taken from the arak tree that has its end frayed to create bristles, before water or rose water is applied to these bristles. The bristled end of this twig is rubbed against the teeth, and its wood component is rich in fluoride along with additional antimicrobial components. The beneficial effect of this method is that it plays a key role in protecting teeth from tooth decay.

“Chew Sticks”

Another method is the use of twigs taken from other trees that could be described as “chew sticks”. The usage of these twigs has been a part of certain cultures for many centuries and the effect of them on the teeth, according to various studies, is one that can be compared to the everyday toothbrush.
However, these twigs are unable to make contact with those difficult to reach places between the teeth. Plus, without the correct usage on the teeth they can cause damage and can harm the gums as well.


Using Walnut Tree Bark

In certain countries, walnut tree bark is rubbed onto the teeth with the use of just the fingers. The reason of this being done is due to the belief that the bark embodies antimicrobial properties. It is also thought that this bark introduces a whitening effect to the teeth. Thus far, there have been no studies carried to ascertain whether the rubbing of this bark onto the teeth creates the desired effect.
In contrast, the whitening of teeth through what could be considered conventional methods in this day and age have been demonstrated to be both successful and effective.


Charcoal, Other Materials and Oil Pulling

Mud, salt, ash or brick powder have also been utilised in other parts of the world such as India and South America to clean teeth. Although these materials do have the ability to eliminate both staining and plaque from the teeth, they are not imbued with fluoride. Additionally, these materials can have an abrasive impact on the teeth, which can cause receding gums and tooth sensitivity.


However, charcoal is different. According to some evidence, charcoal is able to render harmful bacteria ineffective. There is also a method known as ‘Oil pulling’ which can be good for preventing gum inflammation, when done alongside brushing and flossing- a nice example of the different methods working together harmoniously. An ancient practice, oil pulling makes use of sesame and coconut with olive or sunflower oil. These ingredients are rinsed around the mouth for 15 minutes in an effort to cleanse the mouth of toxins and bacteria.

Conventional Methods and Tips

Conventional methods are tailored towards targeting the exact ways in which teeth can be put at risk from day-today. To keep your teeth at their best, a combination of these methods, techniques and a general healthy habit is advisable for consistently good dental health.

Toothbrushing: It’s common knowledge that the brushing of teeth is a regular requirement for healthy teeth, but it’s sensible to also look into getting an electric toothbrush if you do not already have one. Electric toothbrushes have a smaller head than ordinary manual ones, enabling them to clean hard-to-reach places, and they generally offer a more rigorous and consistent clean than manual tooth brushes.


Flossing: A good general recommendation is that we should be flossing at least once a day. The benefits of this doing this are clear: flossing removes particles of food that are trapped between teeth, which defends your teeth from plaque build-up and lowers the risk of you developing gum disease.


Mouthwash: An easy part of your daily dental routine, using mouthwash freshens breath and is advantageous to the teeth by eliminating bacteria and reducing both the plaque film and early gum disease.


Drinking Water: Particularly useful when you are out of the house and away from your toothbrush, swishing some water around your mouth after eating can dislodge food particles stuck on and in between teeth. This helps to protect teeth from bacteria as well as giving them a fluoride boost.


Tongue Scrubbing/Brushing: Especially useful for keeping breath fresh, tongue scrubbing/brushing is an additional method to employ for further oral health improvements. By brushing or scrubbing your tongue you will also help keep your teeth free from bacteria and toxins.

Sugar-free Gum: Another tip that can help whether you’re at home or out and about, chewing sugar-free gum is a great thing to do after eating. Chewing pieces of sugar-free gum can help remove food debris from your teeth and combat bad breath. Plus, by increasing the amount of saliva in your mouth, it can strengthen enamel, neutralise acids and offer protection against cavities.


Dental Visits: And, of course, a sound approach to keeping teeth at their best is not complete without regular visits to your dentist!

MSC- Midlands Smile Centres

By making MSC your dentist, you can make sure that a reliable and highly-skilled standard of dentistry and care can be provided to you on a regular basis. With affordable prices and a range of treatment types to give you the smile you’ve always wanted, or fix those nagging issues that have bothered you for some time, Midlands smile Centres are a dentist with you in mind.



Contact MSC today to find-out what we can do for you!!

Thursday 1 August 2019

Dental Implants vs Orthodontics

Midlands SmileCentres boast several practices around Birmingham, making them easily accessible for anyone seeking expert dentistry. MSC’s team consists of highly experienced, highly skilled dentists with a history of providing quality care.

The Journey Starts With You

When it comes to receiving the highest standards of dental care with outstanding and experienced professionals, Midlands Smiles Centres are the place to go. The treatments offered here at MSC are varied, with numerous options that can be tailored to the patient’s needs. As a result, you are provided with many different options and ways to improve your teeth and the whole process really begins with you choosing what best suits you and your needs.


Below we take a look at two effective methods of treatment; dental implants and orthodontics, and how the different varieties of these treatments can help you.

Dental Implants and Implant Procedures

Midlands Smile Centres are a well-known and experienced dental implant provider. We’ve helped over 5,000 patients by giving them a full, happy smile. The advantages of having a dental implant are many, but two of the most commonly reported are that patients feel more confident and they enjoy eating again.

Dental Implants: Dental implants are widely considered one of the best and most versatile treatments for replacing a missing tooth, with patients often reporting an increase in their own self-confidence from having a new bright smile and additionally an improvement in their overall eating experience. Dental implants consist of using a natural-looking false tooth and an adjoining titanium rod, taking the place of the original root of the tooth and being firmly fixed into the jawbone. The false tooth fits in seamlessly with the other teeth, is reliable for eating meals and can also help to enhance the formation of speech which can be affected by tooth loss.



Denture Implants: Denture implants are an incredible improvement over traditional removable dentures, being permanent and stable, without the likelihood of becoming loose or falling out unexpectedly. By using dental implants, the dentures are then fitted into the patient's mouth and being fully secure, strong and durable, can additionally prevent the jawbone from receding which is a natural response to the loss of teeth.

Implant Supported Bridges: Implant support bridges are similarly based on the principle of ordinary bridges. The main difference is found in the support of the surrounding teeth; instead of using healthy teeth, Implant Supported Bridges use dental implants for support in bridging the gap in the gum between adjacent healthy teeth. In most cases, a one-piece bridge is attached to one implant for every missing tooth that the patient has. These bridges will not damage surrounding healthy teeth and are extremely long lasting.


Orthodontic Treatment

Midlands Smiles Centres offers a wide variety of orthodontic treatment, each being used depending on the needs of the patient. Many people are unhappy with their smile, due to overcrowded, crooked and/or irregular teeth. We offer a multitude of treatments to provide a healthier and more aesthetically pleasing smile, from more traditional metal braces to invisible braces. By accessing our orthodontic treatment, you can receive high quality individual treatment for you and your teeth.

Traditional Braces: For most patients, straightforward treatment usually only requires a removable brace. By using gentle pressure, these braces help move the teeth over time. Your orthodontist could decide that a fixed brace would be a better fit for you if your teeth have more complex problems. These braces consist of brackets and bands which will be attached to your teeth temporarily and can only be removed by an orthodontist.



Damon Braces: Damon braces are a new and exciting approach to orthodontics, with the aim to move your teeth more quickly and comfortably. Instead of extractions or using high force to move the teeth, the Damon system focuses on reshaping your facial symmetry to bring your teeth into the ideal position to create a naturally beautiful smile. Using self-ligating brackets and shape memory wires, these braces use light pressure to move your teeth. Damon braces are widely considered more comfortable than traditional braces and can be used for the treatment of more complex problems.

Invisalign Braces: If you are seeking a treatment that is less visible, our skilled orthodontists can also advise you about our invisible braces and whether they are the right fit for you. These braces are made especially for your teeth and will gradually move your teeth into a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing position. Additionally, they are also removable, which makes it easier for you to eat, and clean your teeth.



Six Month Smiles: Another popular treatment offered by Midlands Smile Centres is called Six Months Smiles. The average timescale ranges between 4-9 months, but frequently these cosmetic braces straighten your teeth and give you your desired vibrant smile in as little as 6 months. While discretely using clear braces and tooth coloured wires, these braces are also extremely comfortable to wear as they gradually move your teeth.

Plus...
We offer other types of treatments in addition to the range outlined above, all of which can provide a much-needed change to your dental health. Midlands Smiles Centres can offer you the ideal treatment for your teeth, giving you a newfound confidence in your smile. Visit our website or get in touch with us today to find out more about our smile dentistry.



We are here for You

For anyone who would like to enhance their smile, Midlands Smile Centres are the ideal option, offering treatments that can help cosmetically, or help correct essential problems with your smile. Take some time to think about what would best suit you and we’ll do the rest. Additionally, by using our Smile Plan, the treatments we can provide for you are available at affordable prices to suit all budgets.


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