Thursday, 21 June 2018

Dental implants vs Cosmetic dentistry

Easily accessible for anyone out there seeking expert dentistry, Midlands Smile Centres boasts a number of practices around Birmingham. MSC are staffed of by a team of highly experienced, highly skilled dentists with a track of record of delivering the excellent results.

It All Starts With You

While MSC are the place to go to when it comes to receiving the highest standards of dental care, you may not realise that the kinds of treatment available at MSC are actually quite varied. As a result, you have a lot of options when it comes to improving your teeth, so the whole process really begins with you making a decision about what you need, or what you want.

Dental Implants and Implant Procedures

  • Dental Implants: Dental Implants are made-up of a natural-looking false tooth and an adjoining titanium rod. The supporting titanium rod takes the place of the root of the tooth that was lost and is fixed into the jawbone. The false tooth meanwhile is visible on top of the gum and is reliable for eating meals and in helping to enhance the formation of speech which can be affected by tooth loss.
  • Denture Implants: Denture Implants are an improvement on traditional removable dentures. Denture Implants are fitted into the patient's mouth with the use of dental implants. They are secure, durable and are able to prevent the jawbone from receding, which is its natural response to the loss of teeth.
  • Implant Support Bridges: Implant-Supported Bridges are based on a similar principle to ordinary bridges. However, they utilise dental implants instead of healthy teeth 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 be long lasting and will not damage surrounding healthy teeth.

Cosmetic Services

How your teeth look can be a big issue for many people, as feeling unhappy with your smile can undermine confidence and sense of well-being. If you believe your teeth are in need of a certain visual enhancement, MSC can assist you. Sometimes the line between a treatment that is essential and a treatment that is mainly for cosmetic purposes can become a little blurred, but below are some of the types of treatment that we can offer to help boost your smile.


  • Teeth Whitening: Teeth Whitening at MSC is achieved through the use of a take-home tooth whitening kit. To begin with, the dentist will first need to assess your suitability for this treatment. Once you are deemed suitable for this treatment, special trays will be created especially for your use. You will then need to fill these trays with whitening gel and wear them for a few hours every day over a two week period. The treatment can be stopped as soon as the patient is satisfied with the results they see.


  • Porcelain Veneers: Veneers are thin layers of material that can be placed over teeth that are flawed in some way. It may be that they are used to disguise individual teeth that are damaged or decayed, discoloured or misaligned. Whatever imperfection they are being used to hide, Porcelain Veneers can make a huge difference to the appearance of your smile.


  • White Fillings: White Fillings at Midlands Smile Centres are similar to traditional grey fillings and are just as strong. However, whilst white fillings offer the kind of dental function you need, their white colour makes them much more natural looking and allows them to blend in with your other teeth.

Plus...

In addition to the range of treatments outlined above, we offer other types of treatment that can make a much needed difference to your dental health. For the kind of dental work that is required on your teeth, MSC is the place to go. Visit our website or get in touch with us today to find out what we can do for you.

Working for You

From the cosmetic improvements to the more essential work that can be done on your teeth, Midlands Smile Centres are the ideal option for anyone who is serious about enhancing their smile. Take some time to think about what is best suited to you, then let us do the rest. Also, with our Smile Plan, the treatments we can provide for you are available at affordable prices to suit all budgets.

Wednesday, 11 April 2018

What are Invisalign Braces?

Invisalign braces have the same functionality of traditional braces, in that they are used to correct imperfections and uneven teeth. Having evenly spaced teeth can help with avoiding problems later in life, and also makes your smile more aesthetically pleasing.



The Benefits of Invisalign Braces

The first and most obvious benefit to Invisalign braces is that they are invisible to the naked eye. This means that whilst you are receiving your treatment, you can continue to feel confident in how your smile looks, comfortably knowing that nobody is aware of your braces. 

A second advantage to the Invisalign service is comfort. Those in the past that have had traditional braces may say that they often encountered pain due to the metal brace cutting the gums and cheek. They can also be very painful after they have been tightened. Invisalign braces doesn't use any wires or brackets, making the experience much more comfortable. 

A third and final benefit is that they can be easily removed for things such as eating and brushing your teeth. This makes them much more convenient during day to day life.


The Treatment Process

The treatment involves making a mould of your teeth which can then be used as a basis to design your transparent aligners. This is completed by the highly-experienced orthodontists at MSC to ensure that they fit as comfortably as possible.

The Invisalign treatment involves a number of these aligners, with each one being different in size and shape. These aligners will be exchanged throughout the treatment period. MSC will accompany this by offering ClinCheck® 3D to enable you to see the transformation of your smile.

The Cost

Treatment for Invisalign starts from £42.50 a month

Our Invisalign open week

For those who are interested in Invisalign braces or would just like to learn more, you may be interested in coming down to our Invisalign open week. From September 5th - 14th, all of our practices will be opening late to offer free Invisalign consultations to patients who are interested in the treatment. During this time period, additional offers will be available such as free tooth whitening if you sign up for treatment. This could save you upward of £255. 


Going Further


Its not just the Invisalign treatment that can help you achieve your ideal smile. MSC offer a range of services that could help you. One of these would be Veneers, these are thin, tooth-coloured plates that are attached to the teeth and can then be shaped to give the patient a more appealing smile.


A second treatment that is available to patients looking to brighten their smile is tooth whitening. This treatment can give you a bright, white set of teeth, and helps to make your smile more confident. There are several different ways this treatment can be completed including home kits and more traditional services such as airflow treatment. 


Finally you may wish to consider white fillings. This is a very popular option due to the fact they offer a much more natural look than normal fillings, whilst still offering the same functionality. 


It is important that you consider each step when thinking about dental treatment. The most important thing is ensuring the treatment is right for you. The ever-growing advance in technology means that for most the embarrassment of a bad smile is no more. All of our treatment including Invisalign is carried out by highly trained dentists that have had years of experience. If you are interested in the Invisalign week or would like to find out more, head to our site and see all our available services or contact us today.

Thursday, 8 March 2018

Smile Dentistry

Smile dentistry encompasses a range of cosmetic treatments designed to improve the look of your smile. These may be as simple as removing staining, whitening fillings or hiding damaged teeth. There isn't a compelling health reason for undergoing these procedures; having them done is dependent solely on how you feel about your teeth and how they look.




What Problems Can Cosmetic Dentistry Solve:


1. Stained or Yellow Teeth


Stained or yellow teeth can be a result of several dietary or other habits. Drinking coffee, wine or eating strongly coloured foods such as curry spices and berries, or acidic foods such as oranges can contribute to staining of the teeth. Smoking is also a common reason why teeth become yellow or stained. This staining effect is exacerbated if the natural enamel on your teeth is already weak.

You may feel that your teeth are yellow or stained, and this may cause you distress. You may feel less confident about smiling or showing your teeth in the manner that you wish you could.

Tooth Whitening treatment is a form of Smile Dentistry that can help with stained teeth. At MSC we provide tooth whitening in the form of a tooth whitening kit. Firstly, your suitability for this treatment will be ascertained by one of our dentists. Then trays made specifically for your teeth and jaw will be created. After that you will wear the trays filled with whitening gel for a few hours every day until you are satisfied with the colour of your teeth. 






2. Dull Grey or Dark fillings



Traditionally patients were given fillings by dentists that were composed of a metallic-looking material. These metallic-looking fillings were grey in colour and not especially appealing to the eye. They can cause a person to look older, or less healthy. This less-than-attractive appearance can make those who have these fillings feel self-conscious about laughing or smiling. They may even feel that their fillings are a hindrance to them achieving the perfect smile.

White Fillings are a form of Smile Dentistry that offer a cosmetic alternative to more old-fashioned grey fillings. White fillings offer a more natural, attractive appearance than traditional fillings, and they are also just as strong as grey fillings. At MSC, our highly experienced dentists will be happy to replace any grey fillings you may have for new, natural looking, white fillings.




3. Discoloured Teeth


Some people may have certain teeth that are not the colour they are supposed to be. When individual teeth are discoloured they stand-out from the rest of the teeth in a person's mouth. This can lead to feelings of embarrassment or awkwardness for the person affected, bringing about a desire to hide their smile from others. 

The problem of discoloured teeth involves dealing with individual teeth instead of a whole set of teeth. Therefore, in this case, tooth whitening treatment is not the solution. 

In this case, we would recommend Veneers. Veneers are thin layers of material. They are usually made out of porcelain and are placed over the discoloured tooth to hide its imperfection. The difference a veneer can make is a very profound one, and often surprising. It is sure to elevate the standard of your smile.


4. Damaged Teeth


Teeth can become damaged in all sorts of different ways. Sometimes, the damage is as minimal as chipping. However, for those who have suffered this dental damage, the imperfection may be discomforting, damaging their smile and their self-confidence.

Again, veneers are what we would recommend here. With that thin layer of porcelain to cover the tooth, the flaw will be hidden from view and you can relax knowing that your smile looks just as it should. With the use of Veneers, the cosmetic improvement to your smile can be easily achieved.


5. Missing teeth 



This is a frequent occurrence in Britain and it is common for our dentists to see this on a daily basis. A missing tooth commonly causes a reduction of self confidence in a person, damaging their overall self esteem. A Dental Implant is a fantastic way to regain your smile and confidence. This treatment ensures a more pleasing and natural look to your smile.  


The Smile That You Want


Achieving the smile that you want, unquestionably depends on taking care of your teeth well. However, there are times when a little outside help or adjustment can also be appropriate and you may choose to have cosmetic or smile dentistry treatment. Whatever you are hoping to achieve with your smile, Midland Smile Centres' team of expertly skilled dentists will listen to you, assist you and help you reach the results you are looking for.


More About Midlands Smiles Centres


Midlands Smile Centres are based in several different locations around Birmingham including Sheldon and Selly Oak. Our practices are conveniently located and, to enable our patients to receive the treatments they want without excessive financial restrictions. Our Smile Plan spreads out the costs of the dental treatments you opt for, making them more affordable for you. Our commitment to continued professional development, means that all of our dentists attend training regularly in order to learn about the latest dental treatment methods and dental instrumentation, so that you are given the most up-to-date standard of dental care.


Get in touch with us today to find out more about what we can do for you!

Monday, 26 February 2018

Your questions about Dental Implants in Birmingham Answered

Dental Implants are a relativity new area of dentistry. There are several different types of dental implants. Whilst some people may only need a single tooth replacing, others may need a group of two or three substitute teeth, and still others may require a full set of new teeth. 

In this article we explore different types of dental implants, including what they are and when they are used, as well as some frequently asked questions. 




Denture Implants - implants for the whole mouth


What Are They?


Denture Implants are a fixed alternative to standard traditional dentures. They are made up of screws or titanium cylinders which are implanted directly into the gum, to which extensions are attached, followed by your custom-made new teeth.

Why Have Denture Implants?


  •  a sensible solution for those that have lost their teeth
  •  comparable to traditional removable dentures, but vastly superior
  •  secure because they are fixed to the jawbone
  •  designed to look and function in the same manner that natural teeth do
  •  long-lasting
  • reduces jawbone shrinkage in response to the loss of teeth
  • comfortable and stable because they are secured inside your jawbone, meaning that you can chew and bite all manner of food types



The Procedure

Firstly your dentist will access whether your jaw is suitable for implants. 

Next they will take moulds of mouth to ensure that the new teeth will most closely reflect your own original teeth. 

Then the screws or titanium cylinders are attached to the jawbone.

For the next 2 – 6 months, the jaw is left to settle so that the bone can grow around the implants, bonding with them to create a stable foundation. A temporary denture will be provided by to be worn over the implants during this period.

When the bone has settled around the implants, the extensions are attached. At this point another couple of weeks of healing time will be required. There are a variety of different extensions with different connections for fitting the new teeth: some can be clipped to a bar, some will be snapped on or off a round ball anchor, others are simply fastened down.

Finally, the full-set of custom-made teeth is fixed to the implants, ready for use as you normally would. Initially, you may feel slightly strange when you use them, but their natural quality means that you will quickly get used to them.

All patients are different, but at Midlands Smile Centres, the approach we take to your teeth can be perfectly tailored to suit you.



Implant Supported Bridges


What Are They?


Bridges are false teeth that are used to replace one or more teeth in a row. 

Traditional bridges use the surrounding healthy teeth as supports for the false tooth and the false teeth are  permanently fixed to those teeth. 

Implant supported bridges, however, are supported by an implant. This is a titanium rod, which is embedded directly into the jaw bone, meaning that the false teeth are fixed into the jawbone. 



Why Have Implant Supported Bridges?


In order to place a traditional bridge, the neighbouring teeth must be filed down, so that a support - or "bridge" - can be created from one tooth to another, supporting the false tooth in between. This causes unnecessary damage to the neighbouring teeth. 

Implant supported bridges, on the other hand, are not supported by neighbouring teeth, but by an implant. This means that they do not cause damage to any of the neighbouring teeth in your mouth.

Having an implant supported bridge placed means that you can continue to use your teeth as normal. 

They are much-less damaging to healthy teeth than standard bridges.

They boast greater durability than ordinary bridges, being capable of lasting for the entirety of your life, whereas ordinary bridges may need to be replaced after 10 -15 years.

They are well-suited to those that clench or grind their teeth.

The Procedure


Initially, the dentist will access you in order to ascertain whether or not your mouth is suitable for Implant Supported Bridges. 

If it is deemed that your mouth is suitable for this treatment, a dental impression will subsequently be taken. This gives us the opportunity to pair the correct style and type of implants with your mouth.

Next, the implants will be inserted into the jawbone. After which, they will be left for a number of months to give them time to fuse to the jawbone.

Once this period is complete, the implants will be checked. If the implants have seated properly, your new teeth will be fitted.

Dental Implants in Birmingham


What Are They?


Dental Implants are a combination of a false tooth and a supporting titanium rod. The titanium supporting rod goes into your gum to take the place of the root of your tooth, while the false tooth is visible on top, blending in with your other teeth due to its natural appearance.

Why Have Dental Implants?



  •  an effective and superior solution for missing teeth
  •  restores the charm to your smile
  •  all-round confidence-booster
  •  improved speech due to gaps in teeth now being filled
  •  renewed pleasure in eating


The Procedure


The first step of the process is for the dentist to access whether or not your gums are in the healthy state necessary for them to undergo the Dental Implant procedure. Once the dentist has confirmed that your gums are right for Dental Implants, the procedure can begin.

The dentist will take moulds of your teeth to make sure that the new teeth are perfectly designed to fit your mouth.  

Next they will use X-ray imaging to precisely locate where in your gum the implant should be placed.

The dentist will insert the implant straight into the gum using the No-Scalpel method and allowed it to settle. 

When the implant has settled fully into it's proper place in the bone, a natural looking crown will be attached to the implant, thus completing your dental implant. 

Now you will be able to eat and drink as normal. 

Get in touch with MSC today to find out how we can help you!


FAQs

I Don't Want Bridges Again, What Can I Do?”


Implant Support Bridges are an ideal alternative to bridges. This is because Implant Supported Bridges cause less damage to your normal teeth, and they last longer, too. Once in place, Implant Supported Bridges can last for the rest of your life.

I Need to Replace Missing Teeth But Need a Reliable Provider. What Do I Do?”


Midlands Smile Centres are here for you. MSC are staffed by an expert team of highly skilled, experienced dentists ready to provide you with Denture Implant, Implant Supported Bridges, Dental Implants or a number of other treatments.
  


Is There Anything Better For Me Than Removable Dentures?”


Denture Implants! Denture Implants are attached to your jawbone and are therefore more secure and more comfortable than Removable Dentures.

They can also reduce the shrinking of your jawbone.

Will These Types of Treatment Be Costly?”


Midlands Smile Centres boast treatment prices that are suitable for a whole range of budgets. To learn more, you can contact our specialist dental implant practices on the following numbers:

Kings Heath: 0121 444 1928

Selly Oak: 0121 414 1551


I Need Dentures, But Don't Want to Change My Eating Habits. What Can I Do?”

Consider having Denture Implants instead. Then you won't need to worry about what you eat. This is because Denture Implants are more stable than ordinary dentures, which is due to the fact that they are fixed to your jawbone. Choose Denture Implants and enjoy the freedom of being able to bite into any type of food you choose.
  


Contact MSC now to find out what we can do for you.


Wednesday, 14 February 2018

The Road To A Beautiful Smile


With 2018 now upon us, it is a great time to give a thought to the overall standard of your teeth. Your dental health is very important, but it can be easy to not give your teeth the attention they deserve. Sometimes this is a result of being busy and having to deal with all of the other things that go on in life. So it's a good idea to use the beginning of the year as an opportunity to ensure that the health of your teeth is at a good standard, and to start getting into good habits when it comes to keeping your dental health at a good standard.


Ongoing/Persistent Dental Problems

2018 could be the perfect opportunity to finally get the treatment for your teeth that you have been avoiding for some time. Here at MSC, our team of highly qualified, highly skilled dentists are able to assist with a whole range of dental problems. Explore the range of services that we offer here at Midlands Smile Centres that can help give you a healthy smile. 


If your dental problem is crowded, crooked or irregular teeth we can help...

Midlands Smile Centres provide a range of orthodontic treatments that are designed to help alleviate the problem of crowded, crooked or irregular teeth. These treatment types include: Damon Braces which quickly manoeuvrer teeth by utilising gentle pressure, Lingual Braces which are not dissimilar to traditional braces and shift teeth using light force, Invisalign Braces which are transparent in their appearance and move teeth at a gradual pace, and Six months Smiles which are a tooth-coloured brace to correct teeth in an average time frame of between 4-9 months.



If your dental problem is a missing tooth, we can help...

MSC are capable of giving you an expert dental implant procedure that will replace your missing teeth. The different types of treatment for this dental problem include: Dental Implants, which consist of a false tooth and a titanium rod inserted directly into the gum; Denture Implants, which are available as either fixed or removable dentures that use dental implants fitted to the jawbone; Implant Supported Bridges, which are given the support they need by dental implants.


If your dental problem is a tooth that is damaged or severely damaged, we can help...

MSC can provide you with a crown. Crowns are artificial caps that are placed over the remaining part of a tooth, imbuing it with strength and returning to it a natural tooth shape.


Smile Dentistry

You might also be worried about the appearance of your teeth. After all, studies have shown that people make their initial judgement of someone almost in the blink of an eye. Having a bright smile really goes a long way towards making that first meeting count. If you'd like a bright smile to make a great impression, you may wish to begin looking into Smile Dentistry at MSC. Smile Dentistry encompasses the broad selection of cosmetic treatments that are available at our various Birmingham practices.

Discover MSC's cosmetic treatments below:

  • White Fillings: A much more appealing alternative to grey amalgam fillings, white fillings are a simple yet effective cosmetic improvement to your teeth. MSC's white fillings maintains the function, but eliminate the potential of feeling awkward about smiling or laughing that having metal fillings can cause.

  • Tooth Whitening: Another way to achieve whiter teeth, our Enlighten Tooth Whitening system is sure to create the look you want for your teeth. This form of treatment begins with the creation of specially made close fitting trays for your mouth. Next, these trays are filled with whitening gel that is given to you and these trays are then to be worn overnight for two weeks. Finally, a visit to the dentist for your last treatment will be required. Safe and highly effective, this is a superb option for better looking teeth.

  • Veneers: Are you concerned about irregular teeth inside your mouth? Whether you have teeth that are damaged, decayed or discoloured, veneers can help to rectify the issue, leading to the kind of smile you're looking for. They are simply thin layers of material -usually porcelain- that are placed over the top of teeth. They are tooth-coloured and are a straightforward method for enhancing your teeth's appearance.

  • Airflow: A pressurised jet of air,water and sodium bicarbonate, our airflow treatment is designed to offer you a thorough, efficient clean. This helps to remove the build-up of plaque and staining, leaving you with brighter, healthier looking teeth as a result.
  • Gold Services: Here at Midlands Smiles Centres, we are able to provide a range of gold services that bring a bold visual touch to your smile. Our gold services include- Gold Implants, Gold Crowns/Custom Crown Design, Gold Inlays, Gold Veneers. All are intended to introduce a striking charm to your teeth.

Now's the Time

Whether it's work you know is needed on your teeth, or changes you know you want made to your teeth, we can help you. Midlands Smile Centres boast a superbly skilled team of dentists with extensive experience that are able to carry-out the types of treatment that you are seeking. Its 2018; it's time you got the smile you want.

Tuesday, 13 February 2018

20 Dental Tips: The DOs and DONT's


1) DO → Floss

Flossing is something that you should definitely do on a regular basis. The reason we recommend it so highly is that it removes the particles of food from your teeth that general brushing usually cannot. Extracting these pieces of whatever it is that you've consumed is so beneficial because it helps to remove plaque.

2) DO → Use Mouthwash

Mouthwash is available in many different varieties these days. The general advantage that mouthwash offers is that it is able to get to the areas of your mouth that your toothbrush isn't capable of, helping your teeth to stay cleaner and to reduce the risk of plaque build-up. It is widely advised that you leave some time after brushing before you use your mouthwash each day, so that the fluoride in the toothpaste has a chance to work. Mouthwash will leave you with fresher breath, too.

3) DON'T → Use Teeth as Tools

Whilst it may sometimes seem easier and more convenient to hold things or open things with your teeth, it is not an idea that is recommended. By doing this you actually run the risk of causing damage to your teeth.

4) DO → Drink Water/Rinsing your Mouth with Water

We often hear that drinking water is a real boost to our overall health. However, it is very advantageous to your dental health, too. If you drink water promptly after finishing a meal and rinse your mouth with it as you do, you will dislodge any pieces of food left clinging to your teeth.


5) DON'T → Eat Too Many High-Sugar Foods

Certain types of food have a high-sugar content. We all know the kinds of thing that are heavy in sugar, and many of them taste delicious. Nonetheless, it is wise to eat these tasty things in moderation. Some sweet treats, like lollipops and caramel, are particularly detrimental to good dental health.

6) DO → Brush Regularly

Twice a day is the general advice given pertaining to daily teeth brushing, however, an extra session of brushing, or at least brushing following each of your meals, may be a better approach to take for better teeth all-round.

7) DON'T → Drink Too Many High-Sugar Drinks

There can be a large amount of sugar inside drinks, too. So it's always sensible to give some thought to what you're sipping on and how this will affect your teeth. The acidity of drink is also a problem for your teeth. So while a drink like cola is not great for your teeth, neither is red wine.


8) DO → Use an Electric Toothbrush

This is an excellent alternative to the standard manual toothbrush. The electric toothbrush is able to give a consistently thorough clean around each of your teeth, unlike a manual toothbrush, which gives an insufficient clean. The electric toothbrush, due to its small head, is able to reach difficult areas of your mouth, too.


9) DON'T → Use Low-Cost Providers for Procedures Like Dental Implants

A very specific yet very useful tip, low-cost providers for dental implant procedures are not recommended. It is crucial that you find a dentist with an extensive record of successful dental implant procedures. Midlands Smile Centres, for example, have over 25 years of experience in performing these procedures with successful results.

10) DO → Brush Your Tongue

There is no denying that brushing your tongue can make breath fresher and give you a cleaner, nicer overall feeling in your mouth after brushing. What may be less well-known, is that brushing your tongue actually decreases the number of bacteria inside your mouth. As a result of this, your teeth will be better off as well.

11) DON'T → Use the Same Toothbrush for Too Long

For electric toothbrushes, the head of the brush should be changed at regular intervals; the frequency of this change is usually once every three months. This is so that you are not using a head with worn-down bristles that are less successful at giving your teeth the kind of clean that they need. If you still have a manual toothbrush, then you should ensure that this is changed for a new one every three months as well.

12) DO → Use Sugar-free Gum

By chewing sugar-free gum you will increase the saliva inside your mouth, which helps to neutralise the acidity on your teeth. This means that sugar-free gum is useful after you have finished a meal. It can additionally help to free your teeth from any fragments of food that may still be clinging to them.

13) DON'T → Press Too Hard During Brushing

We all want to be thorough when we're brushing our teeth, but you should be cautious about applying too much pressure as you brush. Doing this can cause your teeth problems, such as gum damage.

14) DO → Increase Consumption of Foods Beneficial to Teeth

There are certain types of food that can actually enhance your dental health. Examples of these foods include cheese, strawberries and yoghurt. This may be worth bearing in mind in regards to your weekly diet and what you choose to buy when you go to the supermarket.


15) DO → Have Regular Dental Check-Ups

Vitally important, seeing your dentist on a regular basis allows your teeth to be checked for any issues that either require immediate attention and for your general dental health to be ascertained. There is also the possibility at dental check-ups, to ask any questions you might have, and for any issues with your teeth to be given expert attention before the problem worsens and becomes more severe.


16) DON'T → Rush your Brushing

Make time to brush your teeth properly. Life can be busy and it's easy to think you can just do a quick brush and rush off to the next thing. However, this often means that you miss parts of the mouth and teeth, leading to a build up of bacteria, plaque and acid in those areas. Rushing and not being careful can also lead to careless mistakes, such as slipping and damaging your teeth or gums.

17) DO → Have Necessary Treatments

This may sound obvious, but having the dental treatments you have been advised to have is crucial to keeping your teeth healthy. It is easy to delay having procedures done, or easy to forget about them. Whatever the obstacle, it's definitely not good to delay the treatment you have been told is important to your dental health.

18) DON'T → Ignore Dental Problems

For whatever reason - lack of time, nervousness - it is possible to ignore dental problems that you have become aware of. You may not think these problems are that severe, or you may be under the impression that you can cope, perhaps by relying on occasional painkillers. This is not helpful, however, because the issue you have noticed may be part of a larger, more serious dental difficulty. Failing to respond quickly to issues with your teeth can result in more extreme dental complications later on.


19) DO → Wait an Hour after Eating before Brushing

Giving yourself an hour between finishing your meal and giving your teeth a brush is something worth thinking about. Brushing your teeth too soon can damage your teeth's enamel.

20) DO → Choose your Brush Carefully

There is currently a wide selection of toothbrushes available in the shops. Take your time to browse through the options. You might find that certain types are more suitable for your teeth, and some types less so. Those who have chosen the more efficient option of purchasing an electric toothbrush will also discover a variety of head types, each with their own specific advantages to you.

Friday, 22 December 2017

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 persons 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.


Am I Too Old for Braces?

The short answer to the question of, ‘am I too old for braces?’ is simply, no! At MSC, age is never an issue and it’s never too late to get ...