Mini flosser

April 30th, 2011

What is a Miniflosser?

It is a pre-loaded dental floss holder that makes using dental floss a little easier. The strong, slim and flexible dental floss glides easily between the tight spaces between your teeth.

Why do I need to clean between my teeth?

Plaque and food particles can get trapped between your teeth and under the gum line. These can cause gum disease and tooth decay and are in areas a toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing removes the plaque and food debris in these difficult areas.

Why use a Miniflosser?

Some people find it difficult to use normal floss. It is especially difficult for people who can’t grip properly.

How do I use it?

Insert the Miniflosser in between two teeth and use the specially designed bite plane to gently bite down thus easing the floss into the space between the teeth. Once inserted use a gentle back and forth action to disrupt and remove the plaque. Remove by pulling the floss up away from the gum with a gentle sawing action. Rinse in clean water and repeat in the next space until all the spaces in between the teeth have been cleaned. For more information speak to your Hereford dentist.

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A Guide to Dental Crowns in Hereford Herefordshire

April 29th, 2011

What is a crown?

Crowns are an ideal way to rebuild teeth which have been broken, or have been weakened by decay or a very large filling. The crown fits right over the remaining part of the tooth, making it strong and giving it the shape and contour of a natural tooth. Crowns are sometimes also known as caps. An Anterior Crown is a crown fitted to the front eight teeth.

Why would I need a crown?

There are a number of reasons. For instance: the tooth may have been weakened by having a very large filling,
you may have discoloured fillings and would like to improve the appearance of the tooth, you may have had a root filling which will need a crown to protect it, you may have had an accident and damaged the tooth or
it may help hold a bridge or denture firmly in place.

What are crowns made of?

Crowns are made of a variety of materials and new materials are being introduced all the time. Here are some of the options available at present: Porcelain bonded to precious metal: this is what most crowns are made from. A precious metal base is made and layers of porcelain are then applied over it. Porcelain: these crowns are not as strong as bonded crowns but they can look very natural and are most often used for front teeth. Porcelain and composite: porcelain and composite resin materials can sometimes look the most natural. However, these crowns are not as strong as bonded metal crowns. Glass: these crowns look very natural and are used on both front and back teeth. Precious metal (gold and palladium): these crowns are very strong and hard-wearing, but are not usually used at the front of the mouth, where they are highly visible.

How is a tooth prepared for a crown?

The dentist herefordshire will prepare the tooth to the ideal shape for the crown. This will mean removing most of the outer surface, and leaving a strong inner core. The amount of the tooth removed will be the same as the thickness of the crown to be fitted. Once the tooth is shaped, the dentist hereford will take an impression of the prepared tooth, one of the opposite jaw and possibly another to mark the way you bite together. The impressions will be given to the technician, along with any other information they need to make the crown.

Who makes the crown?

The impressions and information about the shade of your teeth will be given to a dental technician who will be skilled in making crowns. They will make models of your mouth and make the crown on these to be sure that the crown fits perfectly.

Will the crown be noticeable?

No. The crown will be made to match your other teeth exactly. The shade of the neighbouring teeth will be recorded, to make sure that the colour looks natural and matches the surrounding teeth. A temporary crown, usually made in plastic, will be fitted at the end of the first appointment to last until the permanent one is ready. These temporary crowns may be more noticeable, but they are only in place for about two weeks.

How long does the treatment take?

You will need to have at least two visits: the first for the preparation, impression, shade taking and fitting the temporary crown, and the second to fit the permanent crown.

Does it hurt to have a tooth prepared for a crown?

No. A local anaesthetic is used and the preparation should feel no different from a filling. If the tooth does not have a nerve, and a post crown is being prepared, then local anaesthetic may not be needed.

Are post crowns different?

Post crowns may be used when the tooth has been root filled. The weakened crown of the tooth is drilled off at the level of the gum. The hereford dentist makes a double-ended post to fit into the root canal. This can be either prefabricated stainless steel or custom made of gold. One end of the post is cemented into the root canal, and the other end holds the crown firmly in place.

Are there any alternatives to post crowns for root-filled teeth?

If a root-filled tooth is not completely broken down, it may be possible to build it up again using filling material. This core is then prepared in the same way as a natural tooth and the impressions are taken.

How long will a crown last?

The life of a crown will depend on how well it is looked after. The crown itself cannot decay, but decay can start where the edge of the crown joins the tooth. It is very important to keep this area as clean as your other teeth, or decay could endanger the crown. Properly cared for crowns will last for many years your dentist in hereford will be able to tell you how long.

How are crowns fixed to teeth?

Once the fit and appearance of the crown has been checked and approved by you it will be cemented in place with special dental cement. The cement also forms a seal to help hold it firmly in place.

Will the crown feel different?

Because the shape of the crown will be slightly different from the shape of your tooth before it was crowned, you may be aware of it to begin with. Within a few days it should feel fine, and you will not notice it. The crown may need some adjustment if it feels higher than the surrounding teeth. If it is at all uncomfortable ask your dentist in hereford to check and adjust it.

Is there an alternative to a crown?

A veneer may be an alternative to having an anterior crown. Your dentist in herefordshire will advise you of any suitable alternatives.

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Smoking and oral health

April 28th, 2011

How can smoking affect my oral health?

Most people are now aware that smoking is bad for our health. It can cause many different medical problems and, in some cases, fatal diseases. However, many people do not realise the damage that smoking does to their mouth, gums and teeth. Smoking can lead to tooth staining, gum disease, tooth loss and in more severe cases mouth cancer.

Why are my teeth stained?

One of the effects of smoking is staining on the teeth due to the nicotine and tar content. It can make the teeth yellow in a very short time, and heavy smokers often complain that their teeth are almost brown after years of smoking. To improve the appearance of your teeth, speak to your dentist hereford about teeth whitening.

Staining caused by smoking

Staining caused by smoking

 

How will smoking affect my gums and teeth?

Smoking can also lead to gum disease. Patients who smoke are more likely to produce bacterial plaque, which leads to gum disease. The gums are affected because smoking causes a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream, so the infected gums fail to heal. Smoking causes people to have more dental plaque and for gum disease to progress more rapidly than in non-smokers. Gum disease still remains the most common cause of tooth loss in adults.

Stained teeth and puffy gums caused by smoking

Stained teeth and puffy gums caused by smoking

How is smoking linked with cancer?

Most people know that smoking can cause lung and throat cancer, but many people are still unaware that it is one of the main causes of mouth cancer too. Every year thousands of people die from mouth cancer brought on by smoking. (See our leaflet Tell Me About Mouth Cancer)

Are there special dental products I can use?

There are special toothpastes for people who smoke.  They are sometimes a little more abrasive than ordinary pastes and should be used with care. Your hereford dentist may recommend that you use these toothpastes alternately with your usual toothpaste. As there are several toothpastes on the market which claim to whiten teeth it is important to look for those accredited by the British Dental Health Foundation. Our logo means that the claims on the packaging are scientifically proven to be correct and the product will be effective at removing staining caused by smoking.

What about mouthwashes?

People who smoke may find they are more likely to have bad breath than non-smokers. Fresh breath products such as mouthwashes may help to disguise the problem in the short term, but will only mask it.

How often should I visit my dentist?

It is important that you visit your dentist herefordshire regularly both for a normal check up and a full mouth examination so that any other conditions can be spotted early. You should visit your dentist at least once a year. However, this may be more often if your dentist hereford feels it necessary. People who smoke are more likely to have stained teeth, and therefore may need appointments more often with the dental hygienist.

What can my dentist do for me?

Your hereford dentist will carry out a regular examination to make sure that your teeth and gums and whole mouth are healthy. Your dentist will also examine your cheeks, tongue and throat for any signs of other conditions that may need more investigation. They may also be able to put you in touch with organisations and self- help groups who will have the latest information to help you stop smoking.

Will I need any extra treatment?

Your dentist may also refer you to a dental hygienist, for further treatment, thorough cleaning and to keep a closer check on your oral hygiene. Your dental hygienist will be able to advise you on how often you should visit them, although this should usually be every three to six months.

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Interdental Brushing

April 27th, 2011

What is an interdental brush?

It is a small brush that can be held between your thumb and your fingers. Interdental brushes are available in various sizes which enables you to choose which size is most suitable for you. You may need to use more than one size to enable you to effectively clean all spaces between your teeth.

Why clean between teeth?

Over the course of a day, food and debris get lodged in between your teeth, and in any gaps you may have. If left, this debris can cause dental decay and gum disease. Removing food debris and plaque with an interdental brush will help keep your breath fresh. Cleaning in between your teeth makes sure that you are cleaning your mouth as thoroughly as possible.

Should I use an interdental brush instead of my normal toothbrush?

No. These small brushes should be used as part of your normal oral hygiene routine to be effective.

Why is my normal toothbrush not enough?

You will know that there are certain places in your mouth that are difficult to reach with your normal brush. There are also some gaps between your teeth that your toothbrush will not be able to access.

How can the interdental brush help?

With its small filaments and tiny bottle type head, the brush can be moved between the teeth to remove debris and plaque that will not have been removed by your usual toothbrush. They are available in two textures, original and Soft giving an effective option for even the most sensitive gums and teeth.

How do I use it?

Select a suitable sized interdental brush. Never force the brush between the teeth. Between front teeth, use a finer brush, turning slightly to ease the brush comfortably between the teeth. Remove the brush by gently pulling thereby removing plaque and debris.  Repeat the turning motion to re-insert and pull out several times until you are satisfied the space is clean. For larger spaces nearer the back of the mouth, a larger headed brush might be needed. To be as effective as possible, shape the head into a slight curve DO NOT bend at right angles. You will then be able to easily locate and clean the space effectively. Always rinse brush in clean water during and after use.

When should I use it?

You need to clean between all your teeth at least once a day. For information speak to you dentist hereford or hygienist.

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Lost tooth guidance

April 26th, 2011

What do we mean by Lost Canine Guidance?

Lost Canine Guidance occurs naturally because the long and strong canines withstand the chewing forces when the lower jaw moves from side to side. The top and bottom back teeth do not touch each other.

How is this protection lost?

Wear and tear on the tips of the canines, often from tooth grinding (called bruxism) allows the top and bottom back teeth to come into contact. This is called group function.

Is group function bad?

Any back teeth weakened by fillings are prone to fracture if the canine protection is lost.

So how is canine protection regained?

The simplest method is for your dentist hereford to add white fillings (composite) to the tips of the worn canines. If the front teeth are crowned then canine guidance can be built into the shape of the crowns.

What will my teeth look like after treatment?

They will look like they did before any wear and tear and feel strangely longer initially.

What if it happens again?

It takes years for the wear and tear to occur, but the treatment can be repeated.

Is it expensive?

Crowns and veneers are expensive but white composite fillings are much cheaper.

What if I don’t have the treatment?

The wear and tear will continue and the back teeth may fracture repeatedly.

Will the teeth be safer after treatment?

Canine protected guidance should ensure the back teeth will be safer.

What about aftercare?

There is no special aftercare, your teeth should be cleaned as normal.

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Tooth jewellery

April 24th, 2011

What is Tooth Jewellery?

Tooth Jewellery is the latest fashion craze to hit the UK. Tooth jewellery classic designs are an elegant compliment to standard jewellery. When placed on the tooth, the jewellery creates a distinctive expression of ones individuality. There are 2 main types of tooth jewellery available: -
Twinkles: – This is a collection of 24-carat gold and white gold jewellery. The jewellery is available in over 50 different designs with some including diamonds, sapphires and rubies.

Dental Gems: – Are a range of glass crystals and are available in nine different colours diamond, rainbow, ruby, sapphire, emerald, emerald green, aquamarine, pink, sapphire light.

Is The Jewellery For Males Or Females?

Both there are many different designs which appeal to everyone. Children under the age of 16 should have parental consent.

How Do You Apply them?

The dentist hereford will use a dental adhesive to apply the Jewellery to your tooth.

Does The Application Procedure Hurt?

NO! The procedure is similar to placing an orthodontic bracket on a tooth. There is no drilling involved and the procedure is completely painless

How Long Does The Application Procedure Take?

The fitting procedure should take no more than 10 to 15 minutes

How Long Will The Jewellery Stay On My Tooth?

The tooth Jewellery can last on your tooth indefinitely or for as long as you want it.

Will The Tooth Jewellery Harm My Tooth?

When properly placed by a dentist herefordshire, the tooth Jewellery will not damage or harm your tooth in any way. Tooth jewellery should only be applied to natural teeth.

How Do I Remove The Tooth Jewellery When I No Longer Want it?

If you would like to remove your tooth Jewellery the it can be taken off by a dentist hereford at any time

How Much Does It Cost?

Prices vary from design to design, for more information on cosmetic dentistry please contact us.

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A Guide to Proximal brushing

April 23rd, 2011

What is a Proximal brush?

It is a device in two parts. One part is the handle that has been developed from a standard toothbrush so that it holds a small brush head securely. The brush heads are available in various sizes enabling you to choose which size is most suitable for you. These colours are exactly the same as those used in the interdental brush range.

Will I need to use more than one size of brush head?

You may need to use more than one size to enable you to effectively clean all spaces between your teeth.

Will I need to use this brush as well as the interdental brushes?

The proximal brush can be used in all areas of the mouth. However most people find that it is most useful for cleaning between the back teeth.

Why clean between teeth?

Over the course of a day, food and debris get lodged in between your teeth, and in any gaps you may have. If left, this debris can cause dental decay and gum disease. Removing food debris with a proximal brush will help keep your breath fresh. Cleaning in between your teeth ensures that you are cleaning your mouth as thoroughly as possible.

Should I use a proximal brush instead of my normal toothbrush?

No. This brush should be used as part of your normal oral hygiene routine to be effective.

Why is my normal toothbrush not enough?

You will know that there are certain places in your mouth that are difficult to reach with your normal brush. There are also some gaps between your teeth that your toothbrush will not be able to access.

How can the proximal brush help?

With its small filaments and tiny head the brush can be moved between the teeth to remove debris and plaque that will not have been removed by your usual toothbrush, especially at the back of the mouth.

How do I use it?

Select a suitable sized brush head and lock it in place in the handle. You may need a variety of sizes for the spaces at the back of the mouth. Your dentist hereford or hygienist hereford will be able to guide you on which ones to select. Never force the brush between the teeth. Remove the brush gently removing plaque and debris. Always rinse the brush in clean water during and after use.

When should I use it?

You need to clean between all your teeth once a day. Please speak to our hygienist for more information.

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