Are Dental Implants Right For You?

There are many people that have concerns about their image. Looking the part and fitting in have become a very important part of society. For some people, this can be the way they dress, the way they have their hair cut and their physical image. However, a growth in dental aesthetic has risen in recent years, with more people than ever looking to whiten and straighten their teeth in order to finally have the smile that they have always desired. One method that has become increasingly popular is dental implants, due to its ability to restore a smile back to its former glory. But what are dental implants, and how do they help? Both of these questions and more will be answered in this brief look into dental implants, and how they could change the way you think about your smile.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are used to fill gaps in from lost or damaged teeth. This involves a titanium screw that is inserted into the gum and then fixed in place, and a cap placed over the top. This cap is coloured and shaped to look like your teeth. This helps to not only improve the look of the smile, but to help a person eat properly and without discomfort. This has made dental implants one of the most popular dental procedures that are available today.

What is the Procedure?

The first step is an assessment. This is done to analyse your teeth and gums to see if they are suitable for a dental implant. If the assessment is successful you can begin the treatment. During your appointment, a titanium metal screw will be inserted into the gum and then be secured in place. Once this step has been completed a cap can be placed onto the titanium rod. This cap, or crown as it is more commonly referred to, is normally tooth coloured. Other types of crowns are available upon request, including gold.  

What are the Alternatives?

There are a number of alternatives to dental implants, such as bridges, dentures and crowns. Bridges are false teeth that are secured onto the natural teeth adjacent to a gap left by a missing tooth. Dentures are false teeth that are clipped onto the teeth adjacent to the gap. Bridges are preferred over dentures when there are fewer teeth to replace, or when the missing teeth are on one side of your mouth. A crown is an artificial cap that is fitted over the remaining part of a tooth, or onto a titanium rod used with dental implants.

What is the Impact?

Dental implants can have a dramatic affect on a person’s self-confidence. Not to mention the ease of eating that comes with a dental implant. Most patients report that eating is both easier and more comfortable after having their dental implant. Dental implants can give a smile a very natural look, which is something highly desired in this day and age. This can result in a bright, confident smile.

What about the negative impacts? You’ll be glad to hear that there aren’t many downsides to a dental implant. For a short time after having your dental implant fitted, you may find that area in your mouth sore and tender. This is normal, and should pass over time. Make sure you do your best to not agitate the area around the dental implant, both with your tongue and when you eat. This could cause your recovery to take longer. Something else to consider when having a dental implant is that you’ll have to take care of it, just like your natural teeth. This includes regular brushing, flossing and dental check-ups. If you don’t you could find you experience problems with your dental implant in the future.

Where to find Dental Implants in Birmingham?

There are a number of providers in the Birmingham area, Midlands Smile Centres have one of the most experienced and successful dental implant teams. Some of our dentists have over 25 years’ experience with the dental implant procedure. Our team can provide the very top level of care before, during and after your procedure. MSC has placed well over 5,000 dental implant procedures, you can take a look at what one of our happy customers thought about our service in this video about dental implants

Another reason to choose MSC is that we can make dental implants affordable using our payment plan. We understand that the implant treatment is not within everyone’s budget, which is why we offer a payment plan. This helps you to stretch the cost over several months, making the treatment a little more affordable.

Head to our website, you’ll be able to find our more about dental implants and our payment plans, and you can book your first free consultation for dental implants.

A Comprehensive Guide to Dental Implants

Edit: Thank you for your interest in this blog. We have revised this guide in order to make it the best source of information for dental implants at MSC, second only to our website. We hope this helps you make an informed decision for your smile. 

Dental implants are often considered by many people at some stage in their life. Having a smile to be proud of is something that many people desire.

Dental implants are used to fill the gaps in your smile, this is often due to lost or damaged teeth that need to be removed. They are a great way to increase a person’s self-confidence with their smile.

This treatment offers a variety of benefits. The first of which is providing patients with a natural look, helping to dramatically increase self-confidence in the individual. It also offers more obvious benefits including a restored joy of eating and full function of the teeth. For many, there is a real fear of the dentist, and a procedure such as this can seem like a daunting task that you would rather avoid. At MSC, however, we look to ensure all our patients feel comfortable and relaxed, no matter the problem. Our dental implant specialists will discuss the entire process with you, ensuring that every one of your questions is answered.

More About Dental Implants

A dental implant can grant a more confident smile, whilst offering an alternative to a damaged or missing tooth. This provides a more natural look with increased comfort. Additionally, their durability makes them as robust as normal teeth meaning they are a good investment for the future. Alongside dental implants, MSC also provides implant support bridges and support dentures. These treatments are more likely to be used when there are multiple teeth missing. They have all the benefits of dental implants including their natural look and durability.

At Midlands Smile Centres, we are fully aware that the cost of dental work can be expensive. Because of this, MSC offers finance options on any treatment that exceeds £500. The finance term can be anywhere from 12 to 60 months. This ensures that all our patients can afford the treatment they require. If dental implants are something that you feel could be the right path for you than the next step is to book an appointment and talk to a dental implant specialist at MSC.

During your appointment, you’ll be able to discuss the options that are available to you and decide with your dentist which would suit you best. It is important that you ask any questions you may have throughout the process, this will help to put you at ease and stay relaxed.

At Midlands Smile Centres we pride ourselves on our highly qualified and experienced staff. We have over 29 years of experience with dental implants, which means you will always be in safe hands. Our dental implant specialists can be found at both our Selly Oak and Kings Heath practices in the Birmingham area.

Caring For Your Dental Implant

After you’ve had your implant treatment, there are still some important steps to take, caring for your implant is as important as looking after the rest of your teeth. Not looking after your new dental implant could cause you to experience the same problem as before. Just like looking after your normal teeth, if you don’t look after your implants, you be at risk of losing them. Read on to find out how to look after your implant properly.

After completing treatment, the surrounding area and the implant itself will be fragile and will need time to fully heal and set, during this time it is important to ensure that you do not agitate or aggravate the implant.

It is important to monitor your new implant, during the early stages you will see swelling and some possible bruising. This is common for this procedure and should not cause you any stress or worry, but you should see this slowly disappear. It is also good practice to try and eat using the opposite side of your mouth and avoid any hard chewing, again to help reduce any agitation to the new implant. Finally, try and avoid touching the implant or surrounding area with your tongue.

As many people will tell you, after having a dental implant, you will experience some swelling and pain, this is not something that should worry you and is very common. There are several ways in which you can reduce the pain and discomfort, one of which is painkillers. Painkillers will help to subdue the pain (not completely) for a period of time. It is important, however, do not take more than the suggested daily limit. A second method for helping the recovery process is using an ice pack. Without being overly firm, place a cold ice pack against your cheek, next to the implant. This should help to reduce swelling and pain. If the pain and swelling persist or become worse as time goes on, be sure to contact or visit your local Midlands Smile Centres.

The better you look after your implant and the cleaner you keep it the more likely it is for your implant to be a success, even though the new implant is sensitive at the beginning, you must still try and keep it clean. During the first few days continue to brush the remainder of your mouth while avoiding the new implant. After the initial swelling has subsided and the pain has dramatically reduced, you can begin to clean your implant, but of course be careful to not apply too much pressure or focus on it for too long.

Other ways to maintain a clean and healthy dental implant include washing your mouth with warm and salty water. This can be used as a mouthwash and is used to help clean hard to reach spots. This will help to speed up the recovery process. Be careful to not use boiling or very hot water, as this could cause you to burn your mouth, not to mention being even more painful on a sensitive implant.

Finally, one other simple method to speed up your recovery is simply ensuring a healthy lifestyle. Be sure to maintain a healthy diet with a mixture of all food groups. Completing daily exercise will also influence your recovery period. Make sure you regularly drink water, about 6 eight-ounce glasses a day, this should be done using a straw to avoid any movement that could cause bleeding.

The Different Types of Dental Implants

Single Dental Implants

Single Dental Implants are a comfortable way to replace missing teeth. They are natural in their appearance, plus they are versatile.

Single Dental Implants are made-up of two parts: a natural-looking false tooth and a titanium supporting rod. The supporting titanium rod replaces the root of the tooth and is placed into the jawbone, while the false tooth remains visible on top.

In terms of the procedure, here at MSC, we utilise a 'no scalpel' dental implant technique. This means that instead of a scalpel incision, our dentists use X-ray imaging to locate the precise place of the implant, before placing it directly into the gum. As a result, swelling, bleeding and pain are all reduced. Healing time is reduced as well. In some cases, the procedure can be completed in as little as three months and two visits.

Implanted Bridges

Implanted Bridges work in a similar way to traditional bridges. They consist of false teeth to fill the gaps you may have in your mouth due to having lost teeth. However, in contrast to traditional bridges, they make use of implants for support instead of nearby healthy teeth.

Implanted Bridges can fill the gap you may have in your teeth, increasing the possibility of improved alignment of your teeth and reduced shrinkage of your jaw. They will also help to restore the aesthetic charm to your smile.

In addition, due to this type of bridge being supported by implants rather than neighbouring healthy teeth, damage to your natural teeth will be reduced. Furthermore, implanted bridges are more durable than standard bridges, being able to last the entirety of your life if properly positioned and looked after.

Denture Implants

Denture Implants are another solution to the problem of having missing teeth. They are able to overcome one of the main issues linked to removable dentures which were the fact that they would move. Denture Implants involve the use of implants fixed to the jawbone making them stable, giving you the freedom to eat exactly as you wish. Furthermore, Denture Implants will feel comfortable and look natural. Alongside these benefits, Denture Implants are durable as well as long-lasting.

In terms of the procedure for Denture Implants at MSC, your dentist will check to see whether your jaw and mouth are suitable for Denture Implants. If your mouth and jaw are deemed to be suitable, X-rays of your mouth will be taken. This is done to determine the optimum place for the implants to go.

Next, a mould of your mouth will be taken, helping to ensure a perfect fit for the new teeth. Then, the implants which are titanium screws or cylinders, are attached to the jawbone. These implants act as the “roots” of your teeth.

After a period of between two and six months in which the bone will heal around the implants, a temporary denture will be provided for you to wear. Once the implants are healed and established, the extensions are attached, necessitating a further two-week healing period. There are varying types of extensions available, and some dental implants combine the root with the extension allowing for an immediate fitting of your new teeth after the initial healing period. The most appropriate system for you will be discussed at your initial consultation.

Lastly, the custom-made set of teeth are fixed to the implants. You can use your new set of teeth straight away; you may feel that a period of adjustment is needed, but you will soon become accustomed to your new teeth.

Gold Implants

Gold Implants at MSC offer a similar kind of function to that which is offered by ordinary implants, whilst giving your smile an additional visual boost at the same time.

Made-up of a titanium implant and a gold alloy false tooth that consists of such materials as copper, palladium and silver; gold implants at MSC are both strong and functional. The titanium implant is attached to the jawbone, making it irremovable, and the gold tooth part of this treatment remains visible on top.

As a result of the implant being fixed into the jawbone, our gold implants do not produce a strain on the surrounding teeth. The gold alloy that makes-up the false tooth in gold implants is also durable, meaning that gold implants are a suitable choice for your back teeth (molars) due to the fact that the majority of the chewing of food is done by these teeth.

What To Do Next

We hope that this guide has helped to inform you about dental implants and how to best look after them. If you are looking for a dental implant or feel you would like some more information, contact your local Midlands Smile Centres where we can book you in for a free consultation.

The Most Noticeable Improvements You Can Make To Your Smile

 With our lives being so busy and sometimes frantic, it is easy to overlook your general dental health. This may not immediately cause noticeable pain, tooth decay or gum problems. Often the most noticeable result of neglecting good dental habits, such as brushing, flossing, chewing gum and avoiding snacking on sugary food, is a decline in the appearance of your smile. This is something you will probably first notice in photos rather than the mirror. You may then start avoiding showing your teeth when smiling, this will obviously impact your confidence levels and enjoyment at social gatherings. In most cases, any confidence lost due to smile related problems can be addressed by a dentist. That’s where we may be able to help you.

Midlands Smile Centres Smile Services

At MSC we have a team of highly skilled dentists who can address nearly any dental issues. We also have a great track-record with cosmetic smile improvement. Watch Chris’s story below to discover how Dr Joshi from Selly Oak MSC helped restore his confidence, so he could smile on camera. 

Treatment options

There are a range of reasons why people become unhappy with their smile. One of the most common is cosmetic appearance. The treatments for this are normally referred to as cosmetic dentistry. The alignment of your teeth may be the source of your concern. Do you have a “better side”? Sometimes this is due to teeth protruding or recessing more noticeably on one side than the other. An orthodontic dentist will be able to prescribe a course of treatment for this. You can read more about orthodontic dentistry below. Another common reason for people to be unhappy with their smile is missing teeth. Teeth can be lost though tooth decay, gum decease or facial injury, such as sporting incidents. Treatment for missing teeth would be undertaken by a restorative dentist, sometime referred to as a Dental Implant Specialist. Midlands Smile Centres have dentists who have experience in all of these areas of dentistry. You can read more about these dental treatments below. 

Cosmetic Dentistry

Here you will find a selection of treatment types to enhance the appearance of your teeth. Each with their own individual benefits, the cosmetic dentistry offered through MSC is certain to give your smile the little lift that you may feel it needs.

• Veneers: These are thin layers of tooth-coloured material. Usually made of porcelain, they can be placed over discoloured, irregular, damaged, decayed or misaligned teeth. 
• Tooth Whitening: Heighten the whiteness of your teeth by opting for one of our take-home whitening kits. These kits include trays made especially for you based on moulds taken from your teeth. These trays can then be filled with whitening gel and worn until the desired effect is achieved.
• Airflow: Our airflow treatment utilises a jet of air, water and sodium bicarbonate to enhance your smile. This jet is great for giving your teeth a thorough clean and is capable of removing plaque build-up and staining.
• White Fillings: Able to provide you with the function that you would expect from fillings, MSC white fillings are a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to grey amalgam fillings. This means they are ideal for those who are self-conscious about their fillings being noticeable.
• Gold Services: Here at Midlands Smile Centres, our range of gold services, including- Gold Implants, Gold Crowns/Custom Crown Design, Gold Inlays and Gold Veneers- may be just the thing you’re looking for to add extra visual impact to your smile.   

Orthodontics

Our orthodontics here at MSC are divided into four categories: Damon Braces, Lingual Braces, Invisalign and Six Months Smiles. Addressing the problem of crooked, crowded or irregular teeth, these different types of orthodontics work in slightly different ways to help you achieve all-round better teeth.

• Damon Braces: Utilising an inventive form of technology, Damon Braces function by shifting teeth gently and naturally into the required position. Similar in appearance to traditional braces, the Damon braces mechanism is faster-acting. Plus, compared to traditional braces, Damon Braces work more smoothly and more comfortably.  
• Lingual Braces: These braces consist of wires and brackets that exert consistent amounts of gentle pressure in order to manoeuvre the teeth into the desired place. There are similarities between Lingual Braces and traditional braces. However, because Lingual Braces sit behind the teeth rather than in front, they are hidden and less conspicuous to the eye.
• Invisalign: Transparent and subtle-looking, Invisalign are a prime option for those looking for orthodontics that are hard to notice from the outside. Making use of removable, see-through aligners that are created specifically for you, Invisalign utilises optimum contemporary technology and are able to move your teeth at a gradual pace.
• Six Months Smiles: Tooth-coloured and discrete, Six Months Smiles are a comfortable-to-wear way of improving your dental health. Able to produce the intended results in as little as six months, this form of orthodontics moves teeth gradually.         

Dental Implants

If you have any missing teeth, dental implants from MSC may be worth considering. Generally viewed as effective and versatile, dental implants consist of a false tooth and a titanium supporting rod which is placed into the jawbone. Our no-scalpel method means that, through the use of X-ray imaging, the dentist will map precisely where to place the implant before it is inserted directly into the gum without a scalpel incision. It is important to seek a dentist with a long history of successful implant procedures and not simply use the cheapest provider. As some of our dentists have 30 years’ experience of successful implant procedures, we are the place to go to for dental implants. Consequently, swelling, pain and bleeding are all reduced. In as little as three months, the procedure can be complete.

In addition, we also offer Denture Implants and Implant Supported Bridges. 

Don’t continue to put yourself last.

You may have a dental issue you would like to get addressed, but somehow other priorities just keep getting in the way, a car, a family holiday, Christmas presents? How long have you been putting it off? Is it time to take action now? If the cost of the treatment is the biggest reason for the delay, we may be able to assist with our pay monthly finance plan. Don’t keep putting yourself last. Contact your local dentist in Birmingham and make the next set of holiday photos ones that you will treasure for a long time.

Are Dental Implants The Right Treatment For You?

There are certain decisions you can make about your teeth, that can have a huge impact on your dental health. Choosing dental implants is one of those decisions. Midlands Smiles Centres are the people to go to for your dental implants, because of the highly skilled and experienced dentists they have. When it comes to making your decision about whether or not dental implants are for you, it is also worth noting that there are various types of implants available, so make sure you consider these different options. 

Types of Implants available:

Dental Implants: 

Natural in appearance and comfortable, dental implants are made-up of two separate parts: the false tooth, and the supporting rod  made from titanium. The titanium rod is inserted into the jawbone and takes the place of the root of the tooth. 

Implant Supported Bridges: 

Implant supported bridges use dental implants for support instead of using a minimum of two healthy teeth for support in the way that traditional dental bridges do. The main reason that this is a better option than traditional bridges is that traditional bridges can damage your remaining teeth. In addition, implant supported bridges have the ability to endure for much longer than traditional bridges.

Denture Implants: 

These are a superior alternative to regular dentures. Denture implants are available as a fixed type or as a removable denture. The removable denture will function in a manner more similar to your natural teeth than a regular denture.

Gold Implants: 

If you are looking for something a little more striking, gold implants are also available here at MSC. With gold implants, the crown (or the visible part of the tooth) is made using a gold alloy. A combination of various metals such as silver, palladium, copper, zinc and platinum are used to create this alloy. The incorporation of other metals in this way adds strength to the crown. As well as their cosmetic value, gold implants provide better durability which makes them ideal for use on back teeth (molars).

Dental Implant Treatment

When it comes to the dental implant procedure itself, we at MSC utilise our ‘no scalpel’ technique. Our dentists make use of X-ray imaging to map precisely where the implant will go. Following this, the implant will be placed directly into the gum. An incision with a scalpel is not needed. As a result of our approach, pain, swelling and bleeding are all reduced. Healing time is also shortened. With only two visits, and in as little as three months, the procedure can be complete.

Why Dental Implants Are Good For You

Dental implants are an effective response to losing teeth. Compared to other types of treatment for missing teeth, implants are generally believed to be the superior option. They are felt to provide the highest levels of versatility as well.

Something else that is really beneficial about having dental implants, is the difference they make to your eating. Consuming food after you have undergone a dental implant procedure can be expected to be much easier and more pleasurable. Patients frequently site the improvement of their eating experience following treatment.

Another more personal advantage of having dental implants is the boost to your confidence. Patients who have chosen dental implants point out that because their smile improves through having this treatment, they become more confident as a result. 

Choosing Midlands Smile Centres

If you decide to have dental implants, then opting to have the procedure done with Midlands Smiles Centres would be very wise. This is because of the vast experience we have in this area. Our Midlands Smile Centres dentists have performed over 5,000 dental implant procedures. A track record of performing successful dental implants treatments is absolutely crucial and means that you can be confident that you will be in safe hands.

Missing teeth are undoubtedly a problem, but with MSC offering you their expert dental implant treatments, there is a solution at hand. Take the time to consider the various options available to you and begin looking ahead to better dental health and a better smile.

Man's Best Friend

Most people fear one thing or another, and at times your fear will get the better of you. This can make trips to the dentist or the hospital terrifying. However, a new trend has begun that may help anxious patients to fight the worry. “Man’s best friend”, the dog, has found a new role helping to combat fear in dentistry hospitals, nursing homes and more. In Queensland, Australia a dog called Beau has been employed for just this reason. Beau is a cavoodle and he was chosen for the role for several reasons, including: his chilled-out temperament, his intelligence and the fact that this particular breed does not shed its hair.

Beau was one of the very first dental practice dogs, we believe. He looked after patients in the waiting room, helping them to keep calm and relaxed before continuing with their appointment. This simple, but effective idea arose when owners noticed the popularity of a social media post about a therapy dog in America. Beau was loved by many and spent his days making hundreds of clients smile. He never ventured near the surgery rooms, of course, for hygiene purposes.

   

Unfortunately for our hero, his luck was on the turn and the dental practice was struck with a big blow. Beau’s inspirational work finally came to an end one day after an accident that in the end killed him. This left staff and patients very upset, not only because they missed Beau himself, but because of the key role he played in helping everyone to be relaxed during their visits to the practice. Luckily patients were not waiting long when Dexter, Beau's half-brother, took up the role. Dexter continues to look after patients to this very day.
 
How would you feel about a dog in the waiting room at your next visit?

MSC - The Place To Go for Orthodontics

What Midlands Smile Centres Offer

Damon Braces-               

These braces have a slightly similar appearance to that of traditional braces, but they are actually a highly modern approach to achieving aesthetically pleasing teeth. One noticeable advantage to having Damon brace as opposed to other forms of orthodontic treatment is that their process is a speedy one; the Damon system necessitates 50% of the amount of appointments as would be expected with traditional braces, and compared to traditional braces, the Damon System is finished 6 months earlier.

Six Months Smiles-       

This type of orthodontic treatment is absolutely ideal for patients who are insistent on avoiding forms of braces that are unsightly. This is due to the fact that Six Months Smiles are tooth-coloured and therefore, very inconspicuous. And, as you might have assumed from the name of this type of treatment, the process takes a minimum of 6 months to complete, with the average duration of treatment lasting between 4 and 9 months.

Invisalign Braces-

By utilising impressive contemporary technology, Invisalign braces are an effective form of orthodontic treatment available through MSC that feature definite cosmetic merits as well. The cosmetic appeal of Invisalign braces derives from their use of clear alligners, meaning that you can enjoy the benefits that they will bring to your teeth without being concerned about your smile being affected by braces that are unpleasant-looking.  

Lingual Braces-

Whilst Lingual Braces could be compared to traditional braces, they actually sit behind instead of in front of the teeth. The fact that they cannot be detected by an outsider’s perspective whilst you wear them has earned them the nickname “hidden braces”. Dependent on how misaligned or crowded the patient’s teeth are, Lingual Braces will require between 18 and 36 months for their treatment.  

What’s Involved

Damon Braces-              

 Whereas traditional braces make use of brackets attached to each tooth and a connecting wire that is “tied” to each bracket, the Damon system utilises high tech brackets that have built-in clamps to hold the wire. As a result of this, the tightening that occurs at each appointment with traditional braces is not necessary with Damon Braces. The brackets are glued to the front of the teeth.

By way of the Damon Braces’ high-tech wire – known as ‘shape memory wire’- which is able to return to a predetermined shape, they will gradually shift your teeth into the intended position with ease.

Due to Damon Braces making use of light pressure, they are more comfortable than traditional braces, and numerous patients have claimed that there is little to no discomfort involved in Damon Braces treatment.

Six Months Smiles-       

Six Months Smiles treatment is able to straighten teeth and work by moving the patient’s teeth at a gradual pace. This form of treatment is known for its ability to create excellent results within a relatively short period of time. You will also find with Six Months Smiles that they are comfortable to wear, too.

Invisalign Braces-          

To begin with, the treatment process for Invisalign braces starts with moulds of your teeth being taken, in order to ensure that you have the most comfortable fitting. There is also the option to view what the expected result of the treatment will be by making use of ClinCheck® 3D treatment plan. Following this initial stage, clear aligners will be made for you by one of Midlands Smile Centres highly experienced orthodontists. Once on, the Invisalign braces will begin to move your teeth into the required position and will do so at a gradual rate and without discomfort.

Lingual Braces-               

With Lingual Braces, one of our dentists must first assess whether this is the correct type of treatment for you, and if it is deemed suitable for you, then the process begins with an impression taken of your teeth. The purpose of this is to produce brackets and wires that are tailor-made for your teeth. These small, personalised brackets are subsequently attached to the back of your teeth. A wire will also be connected to exert the correct amount of pressure. Regular visits to your dentist will be required so that adjustments can be made and to check that the treatment process is unfolding in an expected manner. The Lingual Braces use their light yet constant pressure to move your teeth into the desired position.

Some patients have initially found that their speech has been affected by Lingual Braces, but this is swiftly resolved after they have become accustomed to Lingual Braces. It has also been reported by some patients that their tongue can become irritated or swollen due to Lingual Braces being placed behind teeth instead of in front. To help alleviate this soreness, a small amount of wax can be applied on the inside of the teeth over the braces. 

About Us

At Midlands Smile Centres we believe we provide excellent care for all our patients. As a team, we are compassionate and caring, with a commitment to helping our patients. We are honest and integral and believe in doing the right thing to offer our patients the attention and best possible treatment that they require.

Whether it is orthodontics you require or another form of treatment, get in touch with us today to find out how we can help.

Scuba Diving And Dental Health

Looking after your teeth is an important activity, particularly when engaging in high-risk activities.

Did you know that diving is such an activity and that divers can find themselves facing very specific problems, when it comes to their dental health? Many divers complain of similar dental problems, including jaw pain, loss of fillings and broken teeth. It's estimated that 4 in every 10 scuba-divers will experience some type of dental problem during their exploration of the sea floor.

There are a few factors singular to diving, which could directly cause problems with the teeth. These include the repeated clenching of the jaw on the mouthpiece used to control oxygen flow, and the high level of pressure that is experienced at greater depths of the ocean. It is advisable for divers to visit the dentist before every dive to ensure that they do not experience problems while diving.

Research conducted by Vinisha Ranna found that, after surveying 100 recreational divers, 41 of these people reported problems with their dental health, and almost half of those experienced a problem known as barodon-talgia.

Previously known as aerodontalgia, barodon-talgia is caused by pressure changes which cause damage to the tooth. As the pressure rises, air pockets in the teeth can also begin to pressurize. This can end in a shattered tooth. The deeper you go, the higher the risk becomes. At a mild level this can be rather painful, and then cease once pressure is equalized back at sea level. At an extreme level, it can lead to the loss of a tooth. A similar study showed that recreational divers could experience this difficulty with their teeth anywhere from only 33 feet down to as much as 80 feet. A very similar problem is often experienced by high-altitude climbers.

Ranna also found that 24 percent of those drivers who complained of dental problems, told of pain from holding the air regulator in their mouth. The constant pressure and friction to the teeth and gums from the breathing apparatus and the below surface pressure can cause pain and damage. This can be worse in new divers, as they tend to bite down hard on their breathing apparatus because of the cold temperatures and nerves. 

Finally, Ranna found that 5 percent said they had become aware of a loose or lost filling or crown during or caused by their diving activities.

Because of the vast number of injuries caused by this recreational activity, dentistry is seeing more and more clients who require a range of dental treatments ranging from dental crowns to fillings and dental implants. 

This is alarming when scuba diving is becoming an ever-growing recreational activity. The Professional Association of Diving has certified more than 24 million people around the world. For these people, it is suggested that a dental checkup before diving in, is key to ensuring the wellbeing of your teeth. 

Keeping on top of your dental health is important, as teeth won’t look after themselves. Midlands Smile Centres can offer support and advice, as well as dental checkups for anyone who may require them. Save yourself from the pain and the cost of damaged dental teeth and head to your local MSC now to wash your dental problems away.