Category “General dentistry”

July 31st, 2012

How to Prevent Dental Decay with a Good Daily Oral Hygiene Routine for Patients near Dukinfield

Dental decay, or as it’s more commonly known as, tooth decay, occurs when the bacterium that is already present in your mouth mixes with food particles and saliva to create plaque. This plaque then collects on your teeth and over time this can severely damage the surface of your tooth. If this is left untreated it can then lead to dental decay, which can leave you in a lot of pain and ultimately destroys the tooth. It may also leave you in need of dental surgery.

However, dental decay can be avoided by following a few simple steps each day when partaking in your oral hygiene routine. It has been estimated that under half of adults follow a good daily hygiene routine.

Brushing your teeth

Firstly when it come to brushing your teeth makes sure you spend at least two minutes doing this at least twice a day, and use a toothpaste with a recommended amount of fluoride in it, as this helps protect and strengthen enamel and can help prevent tooth decay. An electric toothbrush may be more helpful than a traditional manual one, as they can be up to twice as effective.

Flossing and mouthwash

Brushing alone won’t help protect your teeth. Ensure that you introduce both mouthwash and dental floss into your daily dental hygiene routine. You should do this as brushing only cleans around 60 per cent of the surface. Dental floss can help reach in between teeth and mouthwash helps to kill the bacteria located between the teeth, along with helping to reduce plaque and fight gum disease.

Finally, to ensure a good oral hygiene routine, ensure that you visit your dentist or hygienist on a regular basis to make sure something isn’t happening that you can’t see or feel, before it’s too late.

If you are looking for a dentist or dental hygienist near to Dukinfield please give the practice a call, we would be very happy to help.

 

 

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July 12th, 2012

What are the Main Causes of Bad Breath and what can Patients near Droylsden do about them?

Bad breath can affect anyone at any time in his or her life, and there are a multitude of different reasons why it happens and there are also many ways in which to combat it.

Reasons for bad breath

The main reason for having bad breath is a poor oral hygiene routine. Bacteria coats your gums, teeth and tongue and creates plaque, which can often result in dental decay and gum disease, and lets off a bad-smelling gas, which is ultimately bad breath. This can be avoided by maintaining good oral hygiene, which can be done by brushing and flossing regularly, along with using mouthwash and visiting a dentist or dental hygienist on a regular basis.

Food and drink and bad breath

The food and drink you consume can also lead to bad breath, such as strong scented foods like garlic and onions, along with strong smelling drinks like coffee and drinks that dry out the mouth, like alcohol. However, these issues tend to be temporary and can be stopped by eating and drinking less of these foods. Good oral hygiene will also help greatly. Crash dieting can also cause bad breath. The Atkins diet is known to cause bad breath due to its fasting and low-carbohydrate intake.

Smoking is the most obvious cause of constant bad breath due to the smell of stale smoke. Along with bad breath, smoking can also lead to gum disease along with staining of the teeth and other problems. Quitting smoking is usually the best option to combat this, along with good oral hygiene.

Certain types of medications such as nitrates, tranquillisers and some chemotherapy drugs have been known to be the reason for bad breath in the past. To combat this the best thing to do is discuss it with your GP to find out about possible alternative medications.

 

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July 7th, 2012

What should Patients near Stockport Look Out for when Checking for Gum Disease?

Gum disease is one of the main reasons for adult tooth loss for patients near Stockport and throughout the UK and happens when plaque is left around the gum lines of the teeth. The bacteria that is present within plaque produces acids along with other toxins, that if left for too long can destroy bone and gum tissue, leaving the person in question in a lot of pain.

If detected within its early stages gum disease can be easily treated. So if you suffer with any of these symptoms they could be warning signs that you have developed gum disease. Therefore it is important to notify your dentist, just to be on the safe side:

  1. Your gums are swollen, tender and red.
  2. Your gums bleed easily.
  3. Your gums appear to be coming away from the teeth.
  4. You have a bad taste or bad breath in your mouth quite frequently.
  5. You can see pus between your teeth and gums when they are pressed.
  6. If you wear dentures or partials, if the fit has changed get them checked.
  7. Your teeth feel loose or are separating.
  8. You have noticed a change in the way you bite or the way that your teeth fit together.

Although gum disease can result in the loss of teeth, it is important to note that a good oral hygiene routine can help prevent the causes of gum disease. You should ensure that you brush your teeth at least two times a day for a minimum of two minutes, although this doesn’t remove the hidden trapped plaque between your teeth.

Therefore you should ensure that you use dental floss and mouthwash on a daily basis, as these will help to remove and kill the plaque located between the teeth that your toothbrush can’t quite reach.

 

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June 24th, 2012

Patients Near Stockport can Restore Their Damaged, Broken Smile using Dental Implants

Unless you really want an authentic air in your performance of the Pirates of Penzance, losing a tooth may not seem to have too many advantages.  But how do you go about filling that gap? Dentures were once the main solution but dental implants are now the most popular choice. This is because of and their ability to maintain and encourage the growth of surrounding dental tissue, as well as their longer term effectiveness.

Benefits over other treatments

The obvious of dental implants in comparison to dentures are their functionality. When done correctly, a dental implant will function just like a normal tooth. A common occurrence after tooth loss is atrophy (the gradual decay of the bone where the tooth used to sit), which can cause changes in jaw shape. Dental implants can help maintain and encourage the growth of the bone structure. The procedure also does not require healthy teeth surrounding the gap to be affected, whereas dental bridges can need nearby teeth to be removed in order to accommodate the replacement tooth.

The procedure

Firstly, the state of your teeth and gums will be assessed. If there are any symptoms that you are suffering from gum disease or tooth decay, these will need to be attended to before treatment can begin. Planning the procedure will require x-rays and, possibly a CT scan to consider the quality of the bone tissue and any anatomical structures to evade during drilling. It should be noted that implants need a good quality and quantity of available bone, but if this isn’t the case there is always the possibility of a bone graft.

The gum, in the area where the implant is to sit, is cut and lifted, after which a hole is made in a precise location on the jaw using a dental drill. A titanium implant is then fitted tightly into this socket and the gums are then stitched over the dental implant. Once placed, the implant is left to heal for between 6 weeks and 6 months. After this healing period, a temporary crown is fitted for between four and six weeks. After this, the permanent prosthesis can be fitted.

If you have any questions concerning dental implant please feel free to call the practice. We are based in Stockport but provide services for patients throughout the North and the UK.

 

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June 17th, 2012

Dental Treatment for Children-the Bedrock of Future Good Oral Health for Patients Near Stalybridge

Milk teeth are often thought of as a trial run for the real deal. This is a myth: Not only can damaged milk teeth affect how permanent teeth are aligned but also how a child’s face forms. Old habits also die hard and, even if they make it through with their milk teeth unscathed, a lax approach to oral hygiene is a sure-fire way to create serious dental problems in later life. Thus, children’s dentistry is kind of a big deal.

Services

At Mossley dental near Stalybridge, we are proud to provide for our child patients under the NHS. We encourage regular 3-month checkups, to monitor any changes, and, to avoid disrupting routines, will attempt to arrange checkups after school hours or during school holidays. Education plays a vital role in a child’s development, and learning how to look after their teeth is an important part of this. That is why we run regular open days, showing children how to clean their teeth and emphasising the importance of a healthy diet.

Cleaning babies’ teeth

Babies start developing their teeth whilst still in the womb and it is imperative that you start cleaning their teeth the moment they start to show. A tiny blob of children’s fluoride toothpaste on a child’s toothbrush (these have smaller heads and softer bristles than conventional brushes) will be best. An easy brushing method is to: seat the child on your lap, with their head lying against your front, and to brush in little circular motions. It is recommended you visit your dentist once a baby’s teeth appear, so that their development can be checked.

Cleaning children’s teeth

You will most likely have to clean your child’s teeth until they are about seven. During this time, try to get them into a regular routine: Brushing once after breakfast and once before bed, for two minutes. Learning this simple procedure can help them maintain a happy smile for the rest of their lives. If you have any queries or concerns, please get in touch!

 

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June 5th, 2012

The Benefits of a Dental Hygienist’s Clean for Patients from Hyde

‘What is a dental hygienist,’ you may ask, ‘and how are they different to a standard dentist?’ Well, my imagined reader, a dental hygienist is someone who focuses on preventative oral healthcare. That is, they try and stop problems before they even have the chance to occur. The difference between the hygienist and the dentist being that their entire focus is on prevention. ‘Surely I can do all this myself, brushing twice for two minutes a day?’ you may say. My response would be, ‘but are you doing it correctly?’

The Cleaning

A hygienist’s main job is professionally cleaning a patient’s teeth, which is sometimes referred to as ‘scaling and polishing’. If you have been regularly forgetting to clean you might benefit from a professional cleaning. Even if you’ve been brushing religiously, there will still be areas that cannot be reached by a toothbrush or any other everyday cleaning methods. Hygienists use special tools to reach these areas and will remove the build up of plaque and calculus from them. Your teeth will also be polished, helping to remove any superficial stains. Regular appointments can also be beneficial as a hygienist will spot potential problems which may go unnoticed by the untrained observer.

Advice

Perhaps the most significant gift the hygienist can offer is the gift of knowledge. A hygienist will happily instruct you on the best brushing techniques and guide you through the best homecare products available. They may also offer dietary advice, regarding how your eating affects your teeth, or offer other advice regarding the mouth, such as giving up smoking. The main focus here is on prevention. You are in control of your mouth between dental checkups and following the hygienist’s instructions will help to prevent any problems developing between appointments. Whether it’s the cleaning itself, some new information or even just clarifying that you’ve been doing right, the hygienist plays a vital role in oral healthcare for patients near Hyde.

 

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May 8th, 2012

Why 6 Monthly Checks are so Important for Patients from Droylsden

Dental decay and gum disease can develop quickly, but to the untrained eye it may seem like everything is fine.

However, soon tooth pain may cause you agony and pockets around the gums may begin to open up and you now have to undergo root canal treatment and periodontal cleaning to attempt to rectify your problem.

Your dentist can easily spot disorders such as gum disease and tooth decay in their early stages, when they can be treated quickly and affectively. You may not notice the changes in your mouth but your dentist can and if you only leave 6 months between check ups any problems that have started to occur will not have a long time to develop and your dentist can therefore rectify the problem swiftly.

Oral cancer checks

Dental check ups are also becoming more important after a rise in the cases of oral cancer, which reached over 6,000 for the year 2011.

Oral cancer displays some symptoms, but unless you regularly check the inside of your cheeks or are suffering pain these signs may go unnoticed. This isn’t a good thing to occur with oral cancer, as the rates of surviving drops to 50% if the disease is left to develop. However, this increases to 90% if the problem is caught early.

Going to your dentist will mean that any sign of oral cancer can be spotted and treated sooner rather than later, to prevent the spread of the disease. Signs to look out for with oral cancer include:

  • White or red patches found inside the mouth, on the lips and on the tongue.
  • Pain when swallowing or at the back of the throat.
  • Swellings in the neck.
  • Sores that take a long time to heal.

When your health and even your life are potentially at risk a 6 monthly check seems to be a very little ask and will be over in less than half an hour in the majority of cases for patients from Droylsden.

 

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May 3rd, 2012

Helping Dental Phobic Patients from Denton Receive the Treatment They Need

Dental phobia affects a large portion of the country, including those living near Denton with many patients avoiding the care they need due to their fears.

Why do people suffer with dental phobia and what can they do?

A person’s dental phobia may be due to negative experiences in the past, such as pain during treatment or an unkind and unsympathetic dentist. However, at Mossley Dental Care we take the time to listen to and understand your fears and help you receive the treatment you need, without the pain, worry or anxiety you may have experienced in the past.

We numb the area to be injected with a numbing gel to help patients with a fear of needles and we never rush or hurry you into any treatment and take the utmost care of all our patients’ needs when they are in the practice.

Helping you receive the dental treatment you need.

Preventing a problem is quick, easy and often pain free, so attending 6 monthly check ups is a must for all patients. We understand that this can be nerve wracking and the cause of much anxiety, but if we are able to stop the development of any problems when they are small with treatments as painless as dental sealants and cleaning, we can prevent you from having to undergo more invasive treatments that may cause you worry.

We have taken the time to create a calm and relaxing atmosphere in the practice and have Dental Phobia certified dentists working at the clinic.

Dentist today have been trained to help nervous patients through their treatments and can help you with your problem, without causing your harm or distress.  Receiving care and treatment will mean your dental health remains at its best and all you will have to attend when next coming the practice is a routine check.

If you would like any more information please get in touch with the practice, we will be happy to help.

 

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May 1st, 2012

The Damage Sugar Causes to the Teeth of Patients from Hyde

Dental enamel is incredibly strong, but it can still be susceptible to wear and erosion and after the damage is done it cannot be replace, as the body is unable to replenish lost enamel.

The main culprit of tooth erosion is sugar, which sticks to the surface of the tooth, providing a meal for the enamel-eating bacteria found in the mouth. When eating their sugary meal these bacteria produce acids, which wears away first at the tooth enamel, then the dentin and finally eats its way into the dental chamber, after which tooth death can soon occur.

What can I do to prevent this damage to my teeth?

A regular oral hygiene regime can prevent the development of tooth problems, which should include:

  • Brushing the teeth in the mornings and at night for at least two minutes.
  • Flossing between the teeth at least 3 times a week, to clean hard to reach places.
  • Using mouthwash after brushing and flossing to cleanse the mouth.

Changing your diet can also be beneficial to your oral health, with changes as easy to follow as:

  • Eating a piece of cheese when eating acidic fruits such as oranges and apples.
  • If you are eating a sweet snack or pudding trying eating it at the same time as one of your main meals. This will decrease the number of acid attacks your teeth undergo throughout the day.
  • Replacing sugary or acidic drinks with milk or water.
  • Be aware of hidden sugars, such as those found in fruit juices and dried fruit.

Small changes such as these can make a big difference to your oral health and can prevent enamel damage from ruining your smile.  However, if damage does occur never fear, as treatments such as composite bonding can be used to restore your missing dental enamel. This will never be as strong or durable as your own enamel, but it is an option for those who have already suffered tooth decay.

 

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April 19th, 2012

Patients from Glossop learn about the importance of regular dental check-ups

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for the prevention of problems associated with teeth and gums. Potential problems can be identified at the very onset and necessary treatment taken. It saves a lot of bother and inconvenience for patients in terms of pain and money. A comprehensive dental check-up invariably covers the mouth, head and neck areas to check everything is functioning as it should.

Such checks-ups should be commenced from childhood where problems such as crowding, missing or crooked teeth can be very early. This will enable a child’s healthy smile into adulthood if a healthy stance is maintained. This is also an opportunity to highlight any problems associated with a child’s diet and the effects of poor dental hygiene.

For most people, dental check-ups twice a year should suffice. But some people may need to go more often based on their oral health, genetic predisposition or if they have a weakened immune system. There are other factors that can cause a dental problem – things such as stress or illnesses can cause changes to the mouth and the development of an infection. Dentals check-ups also show any other underlying health problems, which can be addressed in good time.

Following a check-up, patients from Glossop and surrounding areas can benefit from oral care advice that specific to their oral health condition. This could include tips on cleaning, the proper use of dental floss and dietary advice. Furthermore, the dentist can provide advice on preventive treatment for common dental diseases. Some dental diseases do not show up in their early stages. However, a dentist can diagnose and provide appropriate treatment before it becomes a full blown problem.

 

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