Private Dental Services in Herefordshire

February 27th, 2010

Visiting a Private Dentist Hereford is an alternative many people opt for, as professionalism and modern equipment give patients peace of mind when visiting. They are able to offer a broader selection of services and include many positive cosmetic outcomes. Let’s have a look at some of the procedures that are done:

Take for instance teeth whitening. There are a number of ways that this can be done with the results varying in terms of how long it lasts. One of these methods is using a container filled with the whitening solution and placing this over the teeth. The results are gradually visible and improve over a period of time, with constant exposure to the fluid. In this way the effects can be easily controlled by the patient. The whiteners are usually in the form of a gel with peroxide being the main ingredient.

Natural looking Implants. This procedure is quite popular among patients. What it means is that the replacement tooth is fastened to the gum. Once the decayed tooth is removed or has fallen out due to an accident. This is a permanent procedure and will give you the exact feel and use of the new tooth as before.

Then there are Dental implants. This is when a tooth has been extracted and instead of leaving an unsightly hole in the mouth it has been replaced by an artificial tooth. This is a great alternative to false teeth and is done for individual teeth as opposed to sets. This procedure is most commonly done when teeth are missing in the front of the mouth since it is more visible. Crafted by skilled dental technicians, a tooth will be matched perfectly and one will have to look hard to find which tooth was replaced.

Tooth veneers. A veneer is a thin coat applied to the tooth. It’s function is to cover up the impurities of a tooth and also to protect the tooth underneath from stains and further damage. Porcelain is a popular choice as it is a substance greatly resistant to wear and tear. A veneer has the benefits of whitening instantly as well.

There is nothing more distracting than a set of wire braces. Teenagers are not sure if it is worse to suffer the humiliation of an over-bite they have grown accustomed to, or to deal with braces. An innovative method of aligning teeth invisibly is a very popular option giving us the best of both worlds, straight beautiful teeth without having to flash braces every time you smile.

Most private dentists have oral hygienists in their surgeries making it unnecessary to seek this services somewhere else. Hygiene includes cleaning teeth and removing stains as well as removing plague from hard to reach places and where our tooth brushes do not reach. This part of the visit to the dentist includes education in keeping ones teeth and mouth germ free and education in how to use dental floss in ones daily routine.

You will find a Private Dentist Hereford has state of the art technology in comparison to others, and though a visit to the dentist is a scary thought there is nothing that improves confidence more than a sparkling white smile which can open new doors in your social life.

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Emergency Dental Services

February 25th, 2010

Emergency Dentist Hereford at your call when you need help. Listen if you have ever had a broken tooth you know what pain is all about. We seem to not think about our teeth unless we have a problem. Then we can think of nothing else. That is why it is not a good idea to take your teeth for granted.

You know what pain is if you have ever broken a tooth. Your whole world stops and you can think of nothing except getting to a dentist for some dental first aid. If the dentist is not available, you have to find an emergency back up dentist. And you need to find one fast. There are many emergency services you can all. Check the phone book or look on the internet Of course without and injury you can still have a dental emergency.

You might for instance need an emergency root canal because a cavity has gotten out of hand. Or you might need an extraction because of poor dental hygiene. These emergencies can be avoided if you simply use dental common sense techniques. You need to visit your dentist on a regular basis.

You could have gone to the dentist on a regular basis. You could have had regular check ups and regular x rays. Also, you could have scheduled regular cleanings. And yes we all hate to floss but you could have flossed ever day like your dentist told you to.

Floss daily. Even if you hate to floss you have to floss as one dentist says: floss only the teeth you want to keep. The problems are not in our teeth by the way. The problem begins with our gums. So think about gum hygiene and not tooth hygiene if that makes it easier for you to take care of your mouth.

Brush regularly. And not simply your teeth and gums. You need to also once per day brush your tongue. This is where people forget to brush. The tongue picks up and retains bacteria and is part to the bad breath problem. So keep it clean.

Many people wish they had kept better care of their teeth when the dentist tells them he has to extract some of their teeth because leaving them in would harm their other teeth. But you still have time to develop good hygiene. And you can still make a habit of making your dentist appointments. There are dental emergencies like when people have an accident and they need to go to a dentist for first aid.

Your visits to the dentist do not have to be an emergency. Emergency Dentist Hereford Is Here To Help in times of need. But you need not have to worry about an emergency that could have been prevented when you practice good dental hygiene. So cut down on the sweets; brush before going to bed; floss those teeth; and call your dentist… By the way when was the last time you saw your dentist?

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What is a Bonded Wire Retainer after Orthodontic Treatment?

February 23rd, 2010

What is a bonded wire retainer?

A bonded wire retainer is a small wire glued to the inside of the top or bottom front teeth after orthodontic treatment hereford is carried out

How does the bonded retainer work?

As the wire retainer is both fixed to the teeth but still flexible it prevents the teeth moving out of line after a orthodontic brace hereford has been removed.

Will it hurt?

There should be no pain or discomfort.

How do I clean my teeth & the retainer?

Extra care must be taken when cleaning your teeth and the wire retainer.

How long will the retainer need to be in place?

As long as the retainer is intact it is better to leave it in place. Removal may allow the teeth to move even years later.

Will there be any permanent damage?

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.

How often should I return for check-ups?

The retainer can be checked by your herefordshire dentist at your usual check ups.

How successful will it be?

Occasionally the wire retainer will need repairing or replacing. Your dentist in herefordshire at your regular check ups will discuss this with you.

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Help and Advise on Sensitive teeth

February 22nd, 2010

What are sensitive teeth?

Having sensitive teeth can mean anything from getting a mild twinge to having severe discomfort that can continue for several hours. It can also be an early warning sign of more serious dental problems.

Who suffers from sensitive teeth?

Many people suffer from sensitive teeth and it can start at any time. It is more common in people aged between 20 and 40, although it can affect people in their early teens and when they are over 70. Women are more likely to be affected than men.

What causes sensitive teeth?

The part of the tooth we can see is covered by a layer of enamel that protects the softer dentine underneath. If the dentine is exposed, a tooth can become sensitive. This usually happens where the tooth and the gum meet and the enamel layer is much thinner. Here are some causes of sensitivity. Toothbrush abrasion brushing too hard, and brushing from side to side, can cause dentine to be worn away, particularly where the teeth meet the gums. The freshly exposed dentine may then become sensitive. Dental erosion this is loss of tooth enamel caused by attacks of acid from acidic food and drinks. If enamel is worn away the dentine underneath is exposed, which may lead to sensitivity. Gum recession gums may naturally recede (shrink back), and the roots will become exposed and can be more sensitive. Root surfaces do not have an enamel layer to protect them. Gum disease  a build-up of plaque or tartar can cause the gum to recede down the tooth and even destroy the bony support of the tooth. Pockets can form in the gums around the tooth, making the area difficult to keep clean and the problem worse. Tooth grinding this is a habit which involves clenching and grinding the teeth together.  This can cause the enamel of the teeth to be worn away, making the teeth sensitive. Other causes of pain from sensitivity may be: A cracked tooth or filling a cracked tooth is one that has become broken. A crack can run from the biting surface of a tooth down towards the root. Extreme temperatures, especially cold, may cause discomfort. Tooth bleaching hereford some patients have sensitivity for a short time during or after having their teeth bleached. Discuss this with your dentist hereford before having treatment.

When are teeth more likely to be sensitive?

You are more likely to feel the sensitivity when drinking or eating something cold, from cold air catching your teeth, and sometimes with hot foods or drinks. Some people have sensitivity when they have sweet or acidic food and drink. The pain can come and go, with some times being worse than others.

Is there anything I can do to treat sensitive teeth at home?

There are many brands of toothpaste on the market made to help ease the pain of sensitive teeth. The toothpaste should be used twice a day to brush your teeth. It can also be rubbed onto the sensitive areas. These toothpastes can take anything from a few days to several weeks to take effect. Your dentist herefordshire should be able to advise you on which type of toothpaste would be best for you.

Is there anything I should avoid if I have sensitive teeth?

You may find that hot, cold, sweet or acidic drinks, or foods like ice cream can bring on sensitivity, so you may want to avoid these. If you have sensitivity when brushing your teeth with cold water from the tap, you may need to use warm water instead. It is important you do not avoid brushing your teeth regularly as this could make the problem worse.

Do I need to go and see my dentist hereford?

Yes, if you have tried treating your sensitive teeth for a few weeks and have had no improvement.

What treatments can the dentist offer?

During an examination the dentist hereford will talk to you about your symptoms. They will look at your teeth to find out what is causing the sensitivity and to find the best way of treating it. The dentist may treat the affected teeth with special de-sensitising products to help relieve the symptoms. Fluoride gels, rinses or varnishes can be applied to sensitive teeth. These can be painted onto the teeth at regular appointments one or two weeks apart, to build up some protection. Sensitivity can take some time to settle, and you may need to have several appointments. If this still does not help, your dentist may seal or fill around the neck of the tooth, where the tooth and gum meet, to cover exposed dentine. In very serious cases it may be necessary to root-fill the tooth.

How can I prevent sensitive teeth?

To prevent sensitive teeth follow the principles below: Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste. Use small circular movements with a soft- to medium-bristled brush. Try to avoid brushing your teeth from side to side. Change your toothbrush every two to three months, or sooner if it becomes worn. Have sugary foods, and fizzy and acidic drinks less often. Try to have them only at mealtimes. If you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist herefordshire about the possibility of having a mouthguard made to wear at night. If you are thinking about having your teeth bleached, discuss sensitivity with your dentist hereford before starting treatment. Visit your dentist at least once a year for a check up.

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Advise on the use of Space Maintainers in Orthodontics

February 20th, 2010

What is a Space Maintainer?

It is very often a small stainless steel wire and band joined together which is cemented on one of the teeth adjacent to a gap where a permanent tooth should be erupting. Occasionally a plastic plate may be used if more than one or two teeth are involved.

Why is a Space Maintainer needed?

Usually when milk teeth are lost especially in the back of the mouth, the following adult teeth that are developing in the jaw are already near the surface and follow the lost teeth without any problem. But occasionally some of the milk teeth may be lost prematurely because of severe decay and unless the gap left by this tooth loss is kept open until the permanent teeth in the gum are ready to erupt, the teeth behind the space may drift forwards and the space lost. If this happens crowding of the teeth often occurs and the permanent teeth in question do not have enough room to come through in the correct position.

Will my Dentist provide this retainer?

Space Maintainers in orthodontic treatment have to be professionally made and fitted, and only qualified dentists like dentists in hereford can provide you with them.

When will I need to wear it?

If the Space maintainer is cemented onto one of the teeth, the appliance is worn 24 hours a day until the permanent tooth in question is erupting through the gum. If it is a removable plastic appliance, it should be worn almost all the time, except during playing sports. It must only be taken out for short periods, normally at least twice a day for cleaning.

How long will I need to wear it?

This all depends on how long it takes for the tooth or teeth to erupt though the gum.

How do I clean it?

Both removable braces hereford and fixed braces hereford must be cleaned thoroughly. Use the same brush that you use for cleaning your teeth. You must be very thorough with a fixed appliance as it has little spaces where food can get trapped. If the appliance is removable do remember never to wrap them in tissues or paper handkerchiefs if you are not going to wear them immediately. They will get thrown out with the paper and the valuable appliance will need to be made again right from the beginning.

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Help and Advise on Tooth Brushing

February 19th, 2010

Why is brushing important?

Daily brushing and cleaning between your teeth is important because it removes plaque. If the plaque isn’t removed, it continues to build up, feeding on the food debris left behind and causing tooth decay and gum disease.

How can plaque cause decay?

When you eat food containing sugars and starches, the bacteria in plaque produce acids, which attack tooth enamel. The stickiness of the plaque keeps these acids in contact with teeth. After this happens many times, the tooth enamel can break down forming a hole or cavity.

How can plaque cause gum disease?

Plaque can harden into something called calculus another name for it is tartar. As calculus forms near the gumline, the plaque underneath releases poisons causing the gums to become irritated and inflamed. The gums begin to pull away from the teeth and the gaps become infected. If gum disease is not treated promptly, the bone supporting the teeth is destroyed and healthy teeth may be lost. Gum disease is the biggest cause of tooth loss in adults and can lead to dentures, bridges or implants hereford.

How can I prevent gum disease?

It is important to remove plaque and food debris from around your teeth, as this will stop your gums from swelling and becoming infected. If you leave plaque on your teeth it can develop into tartar, which can only be removed by the dentist hereford or hygienist hereford. It is important to keep up your regular appointments so that your teeth can have a thorough cleaning if they need it.

How do I know if I have gum disease?

Gum disease (gingivitis) will show itself as red, swollen gums that bleed when brushed or flossed. Many people are alarmed when they notice this bleeding and will then brush more gently, if at all.  It is important that you continue to clean regularly and firmly in order to fight the condition.

Brushing the biting surfaces

Brushing the biting surfaces

Which type of toothbrush should I use?

Your dentist herefordshire or dental hygienist hereford will be able to recommend a toothbrush to you. However, adults should choose a small to medium size brush with soft to medium multi-tufted, round-ended nylon bristles or filaments. The head should be small enough to get into all parts of the mouth: especially the back of the mouth where cleaning can be difficult. Children need to use smaller brushes but with the same type of filaments. You can now get more specialised toothbrushes. For instance, people with sensitive teeth can now use softer bristled brushes. There are also smaller headed toothbrushes for those people with crooked or irregular teeth. Some people find it difficult to hold a toothbrush, for example because they have Parkinsons disease or a physical disability. There are now toothbrushes, which have large handles and angled heads to make them easier to use.

How often should I change my toothbrush?

Worn-out toothbrushes cannot clean your teeth properly and may damage your gums. It is important to change your toothbrush every two to three months or sooner if the filaments become worn. When filaments become splayed, they do not clean properly.

How should I brush?

Brushing removes plaque and food particles from the inner, outer and biting surfaces of your teeth.
Here is one method of removing plaque: Place the head of your toothbrush against your teeth and angle against the gumline. Move the brush in small circular movements, several times, on all the surfaces of each individual tooth. Brush the outer surfaces of each tooth, upper and lower, keeping the bristles angled against the gumline.
Use the same method on the inside surfaces of all your teeth. Brush the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several small circular strokes with the toe (the front part) of the brush. Brushing your tongue will help freshen your breath and will clean your mouth by removing bacteria.

Brushing the inside surfaces

Brushing the inside surfaces

How often should I brush my teeth?

Be sure to brush thoroughly with a fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, more often if your dentist hereford recommends it. If you keep getting discomfort or bleeding after brushing go to see your dentist hereford about it.

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A Guide to Dry socket after Extractions

February 18th, 2010

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What are dry sockets?

What is a dry socket?

A Dry Socket will occur in about 5% of extractions Hereford. This is when the blood clot in the extraction socket disintegrates and stops the natural healing process.

How does a dry socket form?

The known things that do damage the blood clots includes smoking and excessive rinsing. Dry Sockets can also occur for other unknown reasons.

Can dry sockets be treated?

Dry sockets are a non-serious (but painful) condition that can be treated by filling the socket with a pain relieving dressing (antibiotics are usually not needed).

What does the treatment involve?

The purpose of the treatment is to relieve the sufferer from pain, as well as allowing the wounded socket to heal.

What If you choose not to have treatment?

Overtime the socket will eventually heal but during this time it will be very painful for the person.

Will there be any aftercare?

The pain relieving dressing that is placed in the socket will eventually dissolve and there will be no aftercare needed.

Hereford Dental Clinic has had excellent feedback in its care for nervous patients when extracting teeth – please refer to our testimonials for more information.

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Vacuum formed retainer after Orthodontic Treatment

February 16th, 2010

What is a Vacuum Formed Retainer?

A vacuum formed retainer is a thin brace made from a sheet of clear plastic, which looks similar to a gum shield in shape.

Why is a Vacuum Formed Retainer needed?

This retainer is needed to stop teeth moving back after the fixed braces hereford, herefordshire is removed.

What is the difference between a Vacuum Formed Retainer and other retainers?

The vacuum formed retainer prevents any movement of the teeth and is easy to wear. This makes it popular with many patients. Sometimes a Hawley retainer made of plastic and wire is better because it is stronger and allows for the back teeth to settle slightly.

Will my Hereford Dentist provide this retainer?

Your dentist hereford will provide the retainer for use after the removal of your fixed brace.

When will I need to wear it?

You will need to wear the retainer at nights.

How long will I need to wear it?

You will need to wear the retainer for at least one year following the removal of your brace. Many hereford dentists now recommend wearing your retainer until all growth ceases at around 22 years of age.

What will happen if I don’t wear the retainer as recommended?

Your teeth will almost certainly move if you don’t use your retainer as recommended.

How do I clean my retainer?

You should use a toothbrush and soap. Do not use toothpaste as some products can damage the plastic of the retainer. If you are cleaning the retainer over the sink, as a precaution put water in the sink in case you drop the retainer. Proprietary cleaning agents are available.

What happens if I lose or damage my retainer?

You will need to contact your dentist herefordshire as soon as possible for a replacement.

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The single tufted brush

February 15th, 2010

What is a single tufted brush?

A single tufted brush is a toothbrush that consists of a small collection of specially configured brush filaments mounted on a standard toothbrush handle.

Where would I use a single tufted brush?

The angle and configuration of the head makes them ideal for cleaning around implants hereford, orthodontic appliances hereford, crowns hereford and bridges hereford as well as difficult to reach areas.

Should I use a single tufted brush instead of my normal toothbrush?

No, these brushes should be used to compliment your normal oral hygiene routine.

Why is my normal toothbrush not enough?

A standard toothbrush is not able to reach the small and often difficult to access areas in most mouths. Any additional surfaces such as implants and orthodontic appliances require meticulous plaque control, which is often more easily achieved with a single tufted brush.

How do I use a single tufted brush?

Once the angle of the brush tip is established, the bristles should be placed against the surface to be cleaned and either: Splayed and agitated as in the case for cleaning around an orthodontic appliance. Splayed and moved with a small circular action for cleaning implant abutments. Splayed and swept along the gum line in the case of difficult to access back teeth.

How often should the single tufted brush be used?

You need to clean thoroughly around appliances and prosthetic work at least once a day or as directed by your Dentist hereford orHygienist Hereford.

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A Guide to Tongue Cleansing

February 14th, 2010

Why tongue cleansing?

Tongue cleansing is a quick and efficient way to help achieve and sustain a healthy, fresh mouth.
Recent scientific evidence supports the need to practise regular tongue cleansing to help reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth. Our dental hygienist in hereford can provide further information on this.

What are the facts about the tongue?

The back of the tongue is the main focal point for the majority of micro-organisms in the mouth, which are a major source of bad breath, plaque-forming bacteria and those associated with gingivitis and tooth decay. It is therefore important to reduce these micro-organisms in all areas of the mouth, especially the tongue. A tongue cleanser is the ideal tool to use in conjunction with a toothbrush and floss/interdental brushes to help achieve optimum oral cleanliness. 9 out of 10 people suffer from bad breath at some time or another. 90% of bad breath comes from what is happening in the mouth . 80% of bad breath emanates from the back of the tongue. The use of a tongue cleanser is much more effective in reducing odour-causing bacteria than brushing the tongue with a toothbrush.

Why the TongueDetoxTM cleanser?

The TongueDetox has been specially designed to maximise the effectiveness of tongue cleansing. It is made of lightweight, supple plastic with an ergonomically designed double handle and is impregnated with a pleasant mint aroma. It is safe and easy to use, minimising the gag reflex. The TongueDetox effectively removes dead cells, food debris and the plaque bacteria that are the most common cause of bad breath.

What if I am a smoker?

Tongue cleansing will easily and effectively remove the extra thick brown coating which forms quite heavily on the tongues surface which in turn will reduce smokers breath.

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