A Guide on Dry mouth

What is dry mouth?

An extremely common symptom presented by patients. It is a condition that may have long or short-term effects on you. Having a dry mouth can cause many health and oral health problems.

What causes dry mouth?

It is caused by the salivary glands in your mouth not working in the way they should normally. Dry mouth may be a symptom of stress or medication and can therefore be short-term. Smoking can also cause dry mouth. In the long-term a dry mouth may be irreversible caused by medical treatments such as radiotherapy or by a medical condition such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.

The tongue affected by dry mouth

The tongue affected by dry mouth

How will dry mouth affect me?

Dry mouth can have a dramatic effect upon a patient. You will experience difficulty in every day functions such as talking, eating, swallowing and sleeping. If you are a denture wearer you may find it uncomfortable, and find that it does not fit very well. You will probably feel thirsty most of the time and dry mouth will affect your sense of taste. You may also feel a burning sensation in your mouth and develop cracked lips. Natural saliva production is essential to your oral health as it washes away debris and plaque which cause tooth decay and your gums may be swollen, sore and sometimes they may bleed. Dry mouth frequently causes bad breath in sufferers.

Tooth decay, affects of dry mouth

Tooth decay, affects of dry mouth

What can I do?

Any of the above symptoms can be relieved. Talk to your dentist in hereforshire about your symptoms and what can be used to make you more comfortable.

What can be done to help?

If your dry mouth symptoms have an identifiable cause, such as medication, it may be possible to rectify the problem for these types of reason your symptoms may be short-term. Temporarily, sucking sugar-free sweets or an ice cube can relieve dry mouth. It is important to introduce a method of sustained moisture. This can be done with moisture gels or saliva substitutes.

How can look after my mouth?

For dry mouth sufferers it is very important to maintain a healthy mouth. Products are available to make your oral hygiene more comfortable. These products will not only relieve the dry mouth feeling but supplement the protective elements in the saliva by releasing enzymes. These products are available as a gum, mouthwash, toothpaste, moisturising gel, gel mouthspray and sucking tablet. Used daily they will help keep the dry mouth moist, comfortable and healthy.

How does this fit into my oral hygiene routine?

Brush at least twice a day using bioXtra mild antibacterial toothpaste. The mild formula ensures comfort for a sensitive mouth. Clean between the teeth with floss or an interdental brush. Rinsing with bioXtra mouthrinse will not only prolong moisture in the mouth but help clear any debris missed by brushing in hard to reach places in your mouth. Using moisturising gel or the convenient gel mouthspray on your gums and tongue throughout the day and particularly before going to sleep at night, will give continued comfort. The gel has the ability to bring great comfort to denture wearers. Chewing sugar free gum or using the bioXtra sucking tablets offer additional day time methods of keeping the mouth moist.

A Guide to Teeth whitening

What does tooth whitening do?

Teeth whitening can be a highly effective, yet very simple way, of lightening the colour of teeth without removing any of the tooth surface. It cannot make a colour change, but lightens the existing colour.

What does the procedure involve?

In a live tooth the dentist hereford applies the whitening product using a specially made tray which fits into the mouth like a gum shield. The chemical is then activated using heat, or heat and light combined. The active ingredient in the product is normally hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. If the tooth has been root treated, the canal, which previously contained the nerve, may be reopened and the whitening product is put in. In both cases, the procedure needs to be repeated until the right shade is reached.

The soft tissues are protected from the whitening gel

The soft tissues are protected from the whitening gel

How long does the procedure take?

First of all you will need 2 or 3 visits to your dentist in herefordshire. Your dentist will need to make a mouthguard and will need to take impressions for this at the first appointment. Once your herefordshire dentist has started the treatment, you will have to continue the treatment at home. This will mean applying the bleach regularly over 2-4 weeks for 30 minutes to 1 hour at a time. However, some newer products can be applied for up to 8 hours at a time, which means that a satisfactory result can be obtained in as little as 1 week.

The whitening gel is activated using a light

The whitening gel is activated using a light

Why would my teeth need to be bleached?

Everyone is different; and just as our hair and skin colour varies, so do our teeth. Some teeth have a yellowish tinge, some are more beige very few are actually white. Teeth also yellow with age can become stained on the surface by food and drinks such as tea, coffee and blackcurrant. Calculus (tartar) can also affect the colour of the teeth. Some people may have staining inside their teeth. This can be caused by certain antibiotics or tiny cracks in the teeth, which take up the stain.

Will I be happy with the results?

Treatment results may vary depending on the original shade of the teeth. Teeth will tend to darken slightly over time. The effect lasts for around 1 to 3 years, although sometimes it can last longer. Some people find that their teeth are sensitive for the first few days after treatment, but this wears off after a short while.

Severe staining before treatment

Severe staining before treatment

After whitening treatment

After whitening treatment

What about home kits?

Over-the-counter kits are not recommended as they contain only a small amount of hydrogen peroxide which makes the product less effective. Some also contain mild acids, while others are abrasive. Although these products are cheaper, whitening is a complicated treatment procedure and should only be carried out by a dentist hereford after a thorough examination and assessment of your teeth. It is very important to follow the instructions your dentist gives you, and to make sure that you go for any follow-up appointments recommended.

When might teeth whitening not work?

Teeth Whitening can only lighten your existing tooth colour. For a change to specific chosen shade veneering is another option. Whitening also works on natural teeth. It will not work on any type of false teeth. This includes dentures, crowns and veneers. If dentures are stained or discoloured, it may be worth visiting the dentist and asking him or her to clean them. Stained veneers, crowns and dentures may need replacing. Again, ask your hereford dentist.

What about whitening toothpaste?

There are now several whitening toothpastes you can buy. Although they do not affect the natural colour of the tooth, they are effective at removing staining and therefore improving the overall appearance of the tooth. Whitening toothpaste may also help to keep up the appearance, once teeth have been professionally whitened.

A Guide to Fixed Orthodontic braces

What is my dental brace made up of?

Your dental brace is made up of small brackets glued to your teeth. The brackets are handles used to hold your teeth and straighten them; the archwire, which runs through the brackets moves the teeth. We start with the most gentle archwire and gradually move up through five sizes. The archwire is held in place by tiny elastic bands, which come in different colours.

A metal fixed brace

A metal fixed brace

Will it hurt?

It is usual for the teeth to be uncomfortable for the first few days after the brace is first fitted – stay with a soft diet and if necessary take one or two tablets of paracetamol or ibuprofen.

What if bits break off?

If one bracket comes off then leave it until your next scheduled visit. If several break off then phone for an appointment to have the brace repaired. Often as the teeth move the archwire sticks out at the back. If this scratches your cheek come in to have the end cut off (ask your hereford receptionist for a packet of wax in case this happens).

How do I clean my teeth?

Since the brace is fixed you cannot remove it for brushing. It is extremely  important to spend extra time brushing all around the brace and especially the gums. If the dirt builds up then your gums will bleed a lot (gingivitis) and your teeth will decay. Special brushes and fluoride mouthwashes for daily use can usually be obtained from the receptionist of your Hereford dental surgery.

Will there be marks on my teeth when the brace comes off?

Poor cleaning and too many fizzy drinks can cause permanent decay marks. The importance of thorough brushing and the use of a fluoride mouthwash cannot be emphasised enough.

What about sports?

Contact sports such as rugby present a problem since it is difficult to make a gum shield that will fit over the brace. A reasonable solution is to buy a cheap gumshield from a sports shop which can be softened in hot water and moulded over the brace.

How long before the brace is removed?

It usually takes about 18 months, occasionally longer, to straighten your teeth. “Traintrack” braces are very good at straightening teeth so that they look better in months. It is important to remember, however, that if the brace is removed too quickly before the teeth have settled into their new positions, then the teeth tend to go crooked again.

Teeth crowding before fixed fixed braces

Teeth crowding before fixed braces

End result once fixed braces removed

End result once fixed braces removed

So how are the teeth kept straight after the fixed brace is removed?

Usually we make a removable brace called a retainer to wear at nights for at least 12 months. Sometimes a wire is fixed to the insides of the teeth to hold them straight. Please ask your dentist hereford for more information.

A Guide on Amalgam and White fillings at Hereford Dental Clinic

What are amalgam fillings?

Amalgam or silver fillings are the metal coloured fillings that many people have. Amalgam was the traditional material used for fillings for many years.

Why should I consider white fillings?

Most people have fillings of one sort or another in their mouths. Nowadays fillings are not only functional, but can be natural looking as well. Many people don’t want silver fillings that show when they laugh or smile because they are more conscious about the way they look.

Can I get them on the NHS?

The National Health Service will not usually allow white fillings on the biting surfaces of back teeth. However, this does not apply to the sides of back teeth or to any front teeth. There is a slight chance that some people may be sensitive to the metals used in silver amalgam fillings. If this sensitivity is proven, it may be best to replace the amalgam fillings with another type. (In very exceptional cases these replacements may be available on the NHS, if a consultant decides that a patient is extremely sensitive to these materials and asks for them to be replaced.)

Are they expensive?

Because many white fillings are only available privately, costs can vary quite a lot from dentist to dentist. Costs usually depend on the size and type of white filling used and the time it takes to complete the treatment. Costs may also vary from region to region. As a guide, white fillings start from around £40 each, but your dentist hereford will be able to give you an idea of the cost before you agree to treatment.

Are they as good as silver amalgam fillings?

White fillings have always been considered less long lasting than silver amalgam fillings. But there are now new materials available with properties comparable to silver amalgam, and these are proving to be very successful. The life expectancy of a white filling can depend greatly on where it is in your mouth and how heavily your teeth come together when you bite. Your dentist hereford can advise you on the life expectancy of your fillings. However, any fillings provided on the NHS are automatically guaranteed for one year.

Is it worth replacing my amalgam fillings with white ones?

It is usually best to change fillings only when your dentist hereford decides that an old filling needs replacing. If so you can ask to have it replaced in a tooth-coloured material. Some dentists prefer not to put white fillings in back teeth, as they are not always successful.  One way around this would be to use crowns or inlays, but this can mean removing more of the tooth and can be more expensive.

What are tooth-coloured fillings made of?

This can vary, but they are mainly made of glass particles, synthetic resin and a setting ingredient. Your dentist herefordshire should be able to give you more information about the particular material that they use.

Where can I get them done?

Most dental practices offer white fillings as a normal part of the treatment they give you. However, white fillings are classed as a cosmetic treatment, and you can therefore only have them if you pay for them.

Are there any alternatives to fillings?

Adhesive dentistry is another form of this treatment. This involves bonding the filling to the tooth. The dentist has to remove less of the tooth, which is obviously better. As we have already said, there are alternatives such as crowns and inlays although they can cost a lot more.Veneers can be used on front teeth instead of crowns or fillings.

A Guide on Dental Implants in Hereford

What are dental implants?

A dental implant hereford is a titanium metal rod which is placed into the jawbone. It is used to support one or more false teeth. In practice, both the false teeth and their supporting rod are known as implants.

Are Dental Implants safe? How long will they last?

Dental Implants Hereford are a well-established, tried-and-tested treatment.  90 per cent of modern implants last for at least 15 years.

I have some of my own teeth. Can I still have implants?

Yes. You can have any number of teeth replaced with dental implants from one single tooth to a complete set.

Can Dental Implants always be used to replace missing teeth?

It depends on the state of the bone in your jaw. Your implant dentist in hereford will arrange for a number of special tests to assess the amount of bone still there. If there is not enough, or if it isn’t healthy enough, it may not be possible to place implants without grafting bone into the area first.

Do Dental Implants hurt?

Placing the implants requires a small operation. This can be carried out under local anaesthetic with sedation or with a general anaesthetic.You will not feel any pain at the time, but you may feel some discomfort during the week following the surgery. This is usually due to having stitches in place, and the normal healing process.

Can I have the new teeth straight away?

No. The dental implants need to bond (integrate) with the bone after they have been placed. This takes at least 3 months in the lower jaw and 6 months in the upper jaw. If you are having one, two or three teeth replaced, you will have a temporary restoration in the meantime. If you have complete dentures hereford, then you can wear them throughout the healing period once they have been adjusted after the surgery.

Stage 1: implant fixture

Stage 1: implant fixture

Stage 2: crown or bridge abutment fitted

Stage 2: crown or bridge abutment fitted

How long does treatment take?

It takes about 12 months from the initial assessment to the time when the artificial teeth or dentures are finally attached to the dental implants. However, if only the lower jaw is involved then it may only take around 5 months. A lot depends on how complicated your treatment is. Your implant dentist in hereford will be able to give you a timetable once the surgery has been done.

Are the teeth difficult to clean?

Cleaning around the teeth attached to the implants is no more difficult than cleaning natural teeth. However, there may be areas that give you problems and you’ll be shown methods to help.

If I had gum disease when I had my own teeth, will I get it with the teeth attached to the dental implants?

Yes, if you don’t care for them well enough. If you keep them clean, and don’t smoke, then you should not have any problems.

Can I take the teeth out if they are fixed to implants?

Most artificial teeth attached to dental implants can only be placed and removed by the dentist in hereford. However, if you have complete dentures fixed to the dental implants by bars, then you’ll be able to take them out for cleaning.

The crown to be cemented onto the abutment

The crown to be cemented onto the abutment

Do the implants show?

Your dentist hereford will make sure that the dental implants won’t show during all normal movements of the mouth and lips. You will need to be able to see them, so that you can clean them properly.

The end result

The end result

Do I have an implant for each missing tooth?

No, unless you’re only having a single tooth replaced. Normally, five or six implants are used to replace all the teeth in one jaw, as each implant can usually support two teeth. For a few missing teeth, two or three implants may be used.

What if I get hit in the face?

Dental Implants and the teeth they support can be damaged by an accident in the same way that natural teeth can. However, if the false teeth are damaged and the remnants are left in the bone then they may be more difficult to remove than natural teeth would be. After healing, new false teeth can then be placed alongside the fragments.

What happens if the implant does not bond (integrate) with the bone?

This happens very rarely. If the dental implant becomes loose during the healing period or just after, then it is easily removed and healing takes place in the normal way. Once the jaw has healed, another implant can be placed there. Or, the dentist hereford can make a bridge, using the implanted false teeth that have taken.

An xray image of the implant fitted

An xray image of the implant fitted

Is the treatment expensive?

Unfortunately, yes. However, in many situations, the cost of the treatment is only a little more than the cost of more conventional treatment with crowns and bridges. There are advantages to it, too. A dental implant to replace a single tooth avoids the need to cut down the teeth either side for crowns to support a bridge. Normal dentures often mean you can’t eat or speak well, due to the dentures moving about. But teeth attached to a dental implant don’t cause this problem.

Where do I get this treatment?

Talk to your implant dentist hereford so you can be assessed for treatment. Your dentist may already carry out some or all of this type of treatment and will give you the advice you need.

A Guide to Porcelain Veneers

What is a veneer?

A porcelain veneer is a thin layer of porcelain made to fit over the front surface of a tooth, like a false fingernail fits over a nail.  Sometimes a natural colour composite material is used instead of porcelain.

What are the advantages of veneers?

Veneers Hereford make teeth look natural and healthy, and because they are very thin and are held in place by a special strong bond (rather like super-glue) very little preparation of the tooth is needed.

When would I need a veneer hereford?

Veneers can improve the colour, shape and position of teeth. A precise shade of porcelain can be chosen to give the right colour to improve a single discoloured or stained tooth or to lighten front teeth (usually the upper ones) generally. A veneer can make a chipped tooth look intact again. The porcelain covers the whole of the front of the tooth with a thicker section replacing the broken part.  Veneers herefordshire can also be used to close small gaps, when orthodontics (braces) are not suitable. If one tooth is slightly out of position, a veneer can sometimes be fitted to bring it into line with the others.

Patient unhappy with discoloured teeth

Patient unhappy with discoloured teeth

2 porcelain veneers placed to improve the appearence

2 porcelain veneers placed to improve the appearance at Hereford Dental Clinic

What about alternatives?

A natural-coloured filling material can be used for minor repairs to front teeth. This is excellent where the tooth supports the filling, but may not work so well for broken tooth corners. There will always be a join between the tooth and the filling material. Crowns are used for teeth that need to be strengthened either because they have broken, have been weakened by a very large filling, or have had root canal treatment.

How long will a veneer last?

Veneers should last for many years, but they can chip or break, just as your own teeth can. Your dentist hereford will tell you how long each individual veneer should last. Small chips can be repaired, or a new veneer fitted if necessary.

How are teeth prepared for a veneer?

Some of the shiny outer enamel surface of the tooth may be removed, to make sure that the veneer can be bonded permanently in place later. The amount of enamel removed is tiny and will be the same as the thickness of the veneer to be fitted, so that the tooth stays the same size. A local anaesthetic (injection) may be used to make sure that there is no discomfort, but often this is not necessary. Once the tooth has been prepared, the dentist hereford will take an impression. This will be given to the dental technician, along with any other information needed to make the veneer. The colour of the surrounding teeth is matched on a shade guide to make sure that the veneer will look entirely natural.

How long will it take?

A veneer takes at least two visits; the first to prepare the tooth and to match the shade, and the second to fit it. Before bonding it in place, your dentist will show you the veneer on your tooth to make sure you are happy with it. Bonding a veneer in place is done with a special adhesive, which holds it firmly on the tooth.

Will I need a temporary veneer between visits?

Because the preparation of the tooth is so slight you will probably not need a temporary veneer. The tooth will look very much the same after preparation, but will feel slightly less smooth.

What happens after the veneer is fitted?

Only minor adjustments can be made to the veneer after it is fitted. It is usually best to wait a little while to get used to it before any changes are made. Your dentist hereford will probably want to check and polish it a week or so after it is fitted, and to make sure that you are happy with it.

How much will it cost?

You can have veneers on the NHS. However, many dentists prefer to provide cosmetic treatment privately. It is important to discuss charges and treatment options with your dentist hereford before starting treatment.

A Guide to Tooth Resorption

What is resorption?

Resorption is a normal and natural process in which teeth dissolve away under pressure from adjacent teeth e.g. baby teeth roots disappear under pressure from the second teeth coming through.

How does resorption affect tooth development?

Occasionally Mother Nature makes a mistake and a permanent tooth damages another adjacent permanent tooth.

What are the symptoms?

A damaged tooth will become loose like a baby tooth.

Upper lateral incisor discoloured due to resorption

Upper lateral incisor discoloured due to resorption

What can be done to correct a Resorption problem?

If seen early on x-rays, the tooth causing trouble can be moved away with braces or even extracted. If the problem is not seen until later in the process the damaged tooth will usually be lost.

An xray image of resorption

An xray image of resorption

How long will the treatment take?

Each resorption case must be assessed individually as they are very complicated situations. Your dentist Hereford will give you a guide estimate based on their examination.

Will there be any permanent damage?

Unfortunately the tooth or teeth with the damaged root(s) will usually be lost.

Is the treatment permanent, or will I need additional future treatment?

Any damaged teeth that are extracted will need to be replaced with a denture, bridge or Dental Implants.

What are the choices available for braces?

The type of braces for teeth can depend on the extent of the treatment, particularly given the fact that all sorts of elements could influence its complexity. Thus, the degree of tooth crookedness and the way the bite is affected are the first to be connected with the choice of the braces for teeth. According to this factor, you will have to wear the braces for a longer or shorter period of time; the dentist may even have to extract some of the teeth in order to make all the applications possible. The price could also be an important factor when it comes to straightening crooked teeth: how much do you afford to pay for the braces?

Very often the aesthetic aspect of the braces for teeth is seriously taken into consideration; given the fact that you’ll have to wear the metal brackets for six months or even a year, you’ll definitely be worried about your looks. This is why ceramic brackets have become the most popular on the market, since they are the least visible braces for teeth. The bands that make the connection between the arch wire and the ceramic brackets are made of transparent or white material, which renders them little visible.

Many people who want to have a perfect smile turn to braces as the right means of straightening crooked teeth. There are all sorts of materials and designs when it comes to braces for teeth, and the offer is so wide, you may have difficulties in choosing: gold or regular metal, ceramic, invisible brackets, lingual braces and more, how should one know what to choose? First of all, the dentists advice is crucial when it comes to selecting a certain model of braces for teeth, but the patients opinions and wishes are definitely taken into consideration as well. There are several factors that influence the choice, and they all need to be discussed with the dentist.

However, there are certain inconveniences related to the use of ceramic braces for teeth. The most serious issue is that the white or transparent ligatures can easily stain, and then you can say goodbye to your good looks. You’ll have to change the ligatures every time you go to the dentist, usually on a monthly basis; furthermore, this type of braces for teeth is a lot more expensive than the regular metal ones that use traditional brackets. Last but not least, the treatment with ceramic braces for teeth usually takes a little longer than with other regular orthodontic devices; hence you may have to wear the brackets for a few months more.

A Hereford Dental Clinic Guide to Bridges

Why should I replace missing teeth?

Your appearance is one reason. Another is that the gap left by a missing tooth can mean greater strain on the teeth at either side.  A gap can also mean your bite is affected, because the teeth next to the space can lean into the gap and alter the way the upper and lower teeth bite together. This can then lead to food getting packed into the gap, which causes both decay and gum disease.

A missing lower incisor

A missing lower incisor

How are missing teeth replaced?

This depends on the number of teeth missing and on where they are in the mouth. The condition of the other teeth also affects the decision. There are two main two ways to replace the missing teeth. The first is with a removable false tooth or teeth a partial denture.  The second is with a fixed bridge. A bridge is usually used where there are fewer teeth to replace, or when the missing teeth are only on one side of the mouth.

Replaced with a bridge

Replaced with a bridge

Can I always have a bridge to replace missing teeth?

Yes, if you have enough strong teeth with good bone support. Your dentist hereford will help you decide the best way of replacing your missing teeth within your budget.

What are bridges made of?

Bridges are usually made of a precious metal base. If the bridge will show, porcelain is then bonded to the base. Sometimes, there are other non-precious metals used in the base to reduce the cost.

An intra oral view of a lower bridge

An intra oral view of a lower bridge

Are bridges expensive?

Although a bridge may seem expensive it will last many years. It will also improve your appearance and bite. A bridge uses the considerable skill of the herefordshire dentist and technician, and in this way, it’s similar to ordering a piece of hand-made jewellery. The materials are also expensive so it’s fair to say a bridge will not be the cheapest treatment you have ever had.

How do I look after my bridge?

You need to clean your bridge every day, to prevent problems such as bad breath and gum disease. You also have to clean under the false tooth every day.Your dentist hereford or hygienist hereford will show you how to use a bridge needle or special floss, as a normal toothbrush cannot reach.

Are there other methods for fixing false teeth?

There are other methods, such as using a combination of crowns and partial dentures that can keep the retaining clips out of sight. You can also have teeth implanted, ask your dentist for more information. Remember that its as important to care for your remaining teeth as it is to replace the missing ones.

Are there different types of bridge?

Yes, there are different types of bridge which use different fixing methods. Your dentist will choose the most effective and conservative bridge for your personal situation.

Teeth Whitening Herefordshire

Brush your teeth two to three times a day. Stay away from foods high in sugar. Colas, coffee, and sweets should be avoided or taken in moderation. They cause cavities, which leads to bad breath. They stain your teeth, turning them yellow to brownish in colour. If you are considering having your teeth whitened, be sure that your teeth are normal. Do not have the procedure if you are wearing false teeth or have fillings. If you are trying to whiten a rotted brown teeth, do not bother.

Teeth whitening Herefordshire allows people to smile with confidence. If you see people with beautiful smiles, they usually have white teeth. Having white teeth says their teeth are clean and healthy. A beautiful smile usually states that a person is in good health. It also indicates that they have excellent hygiene. White teeth makes a person appear attractive. The whiter your teeth are, the more confidence you will have.

To get professional teeth whitening your dentist will use light-activated laser whitening. It can be expensive. You may need more than one visit for the best results. But results are seen right away from the first visit.

Some tooth pastes contain teeth whitening agents. However, bleach is not included. If you are pregnant, be careful of what you use. Teeth whitening toothpaste has received attention for containing certain agents in there that should not be in a tooth paste. Do your research before using.

Strips are thin and includes peroxide – based whitening gel. It is ideally used twice a day for half an hour for approximately two weeks. It will last for months. Gels are used by applying on your teeth two times a day for two weeks as well. And the results will last for about the same amount of time as strips.

Like mouth wash, rinses are used by gargling. Keep it in your mouth and swirl it around for 30 seconds. With the rinse, results may take a bit longer. It only stays inside your mouth for a short period, so it may take months to see the desired results.

Tray-based teeth whiteners are used like a mouth-guard. This may not be for every one. Some people have gag-reflex and may find this procedure to be uncomfortable. The tray stays in the mouth for two hours a day.

Remember that teeth whitening procedures will not last forever. For best results, avoid consuming too much products that are full of sugar or caffeine. They will stain and decay your teeth.

Ask us a question.