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.

The Importance of Check-Ups at the Dentist

It is advisable to take check-ups at the dentist’s seriously for a variety of reasons. Although this may sound like stating the obvious, it is surprising to learn the number of potential benefits to be gained from a dental check-up that can be overlooked. Continue reading to discover what is involved in dental check-ups and how they can benefit you.

What Is Involved With A Dental Check-Up?

• Warning signs of serious problems with your teeth can be detected, increasing the chances of prompt and successful treatment.

• The examination of the overall health of your teeth.

• The checking of the condition of your gums.

• Gives the opportunity for any plaque or tartar to be removed by your dentist. This is especially worthwhile as gum disease and cavities are caused by plaque and tartar.

• The chance to get advice on the best ways to brush and floss your teeth.

• The chance to ask questions and receive guidance in reference to diet, smoking and drinking.

• The opportunity to ask about any problems with your teeth that you have discovered since your previous check-up.

Further Help We Can Offer You

As it has been pointed out, a dental check-up can highlight problems that will require further help from your dentist. If it is discovered that you do require further help, Midlands Smiles Centres can provide assistance. There are a number of possible issues with your teeth that you may be suffering from, and here are some examples of the types of treatment that we, at Midlands Smile Centres can provide to help alleviate these possible problems.

Types Of Dental Treatment

• Orthodontic Treatment: 

This is the treatment that is used to correct crooked or crowded teeth. Orthodontic treatment works by moving your teeth into a comfortable position and it does this by using braces. There are four types of braces available: Traditional braces, Damon braces, Invisalign braces and Six Months Smiles.

• Oral Surgery (Extractions): 

A check-up may reveal that an extraction is necessary. An example of this is in instances where you have wisdom teeth coming through and causing you discomfort.

• Hygienist Treatment: 

A visit to the hygienist will allow you to receive a professional clean for your teeth, commonly known as a scale and polish. Visiting the hygienist is a sure way to help you combat the risk of tooth wear, tooth decay and gum disease.

• Fillings: 

Depending on what is required, one of three types of filling/restoration will be offered to you as a means of repairing decayed or damaged teeth. The three types of filling/restoration are- Amalgam Fillings/Metal Fillings, Composite Fillings/White Filling, Dental Restorations (More complex, possibly blending composite, amalgam, porcelain and cement).

*An important note:  Make sure that you get in touch with your dentist in the event that you     experience difficulties with your teeth between dental check-ups.

Contact Your Local Practice Today

Choose Midlands Smiles Centres for your dental check-ups and rely on us to help make sure that your teeth and gums stay in the best possible health. Contact MSC today to find out how we can assist you.