Children’s Dental Hygiene

Children's Dental Hygiene

It is never too early to show your child how to take excellent care of their teeth, and visiting the dentists for regular check-ups is highly important! Here at Selsdon Smiles, our friendly and caring team of dental professionals understand how to take good care of your little one’s teeth. Our dentists have a welcoming atmosphere to help your children relax before getting their check-ups. We advise implanting how important going to the dentist is for children; it will help them understand and keep their teeth and gums healthier for longer and help them develop even better oral healthcare and habits when they grow up.

Regardless of whether your child already has a mouth full of teeth or only a few have emerged, it is time to start thinking about visiting the dentist to ensure they will always have and keep their healthy smile. Likewise, when your child’s teeth begin to fall out, it is essential to keep their gums and teeth in the best shape whilst preparing for adult teeth.

As mentioned above, we at Selsdon Smiles encourage parents to let their children know about dentists and what to expect. However, we understand how nerve-racking it can be for both parents and children. However, bringing your child to a dentist in Selsdon will ensure that you and your child will learn the benefits of achieving healthy, happy gums and teeth. Here are some tips for giving your kids an early and easy start to excellent oral health.

Observe your children's teeth

Your child will feel more comfortable having their teeth looked at by the dentist if you have already checked theirs beforehand at home. The first visit is usually for making sure the child gets used to the dental chair and the surroundings. Still, you can slightly prepare them for this experience by examining their mouth regularly at home, even if your child has not yet developed any teeth. You can start cleaning their gums gently with a wet cloth.

Bring your child to your dental appointments

Bringing your child along to your dental appointment is a great way to familiarise your little one with the dental settings. Here at Selsdon Smiles, we focus on giving your child the best dental experience possible. However, if you have dental phobia, it is probably not the best idea to have your little one with you during your appointment.

When to visit the dentist

Most dentists recommend that toddlers see the dentist six months before the first tooth appears. However, if you’re in doubt about any of this, our dentists at Selsdon Smiles are here to advise you as much as you need it. So if you’re looking for the best dental advice and help for your little one’s gums and teeth, contact us today and get registered as a new patient. We’ll get the ball rolling and have your first appointment in no time!

Specialist Dentistry

Specialist Dentistry

Specialist Dentistry is a type of Dentistry we offer here at Selsdon Smiles. Within Specialist Dentistry, you can recieve the following treatments:

  • Periodontics
  • Dental Implants
  • Prosthetics

Continue reading this blog to find out more about these treatments.

Periodontics

Periodontics or Periodontal Disease is an inflammation of your gums, where the tissue holds the tooth. Periodontics is a severe cause of tooth loss in adults. If left untreated, it can lead to bad breath and in worse cases, a tooth can be lost. Due to bacteria contained within the plaque on the surface of your tooth, it can cause your gums to become inflamed. If Periodontitis is left untreated, it can affect many areas like the gums and even your bones. A pocket can eventually form between the root of your tooth and the gum; this is where bacteria can escalate, meaning a calculus will develop. This issue is also known as being called the ‘Silent Disease’ due to a lot of people being unaware they have it until the advanced stages. Did you know 10% of the population appear to suffer from more severe forms of gum disease?! So, we advise getting regular checkups with us to prevent issues like this from happening.

Some signs and symptoms to look for in regards to Periodontics would include:

  • Swelling of the gums or reddening
  • Gums that bleed
  • Teeth that have become loose
  • A bad taste in the mouth
  • Bad breath

Treatment of Periodontal Disease

Here at Selsdon Smiles, we are here to help you by treating Periodontitis. Our specialists ensure the treatment is focused on plaque control since it is the leading cause of gum disease.

Our dental nurses start with an initial consultation where they will enable you to master a routine to clean plaque successfully. They will also remove tartar professionally, meaning you will benefit from fresher breath with firmer gums.

 It will take several weeks of healing, and after this, we will assess the response of your gums to the treatment. This reassessment appointment is vital as we use this to determine how successful our therapy has been and whether you will need further treatment. 

Correct the Effects of Gum Disease

Gum pockets are deep-rooted, periodontal (or gum), and surgery may be required in some instances. This is frequently the case around the molar (back) teeth. Our Specialists will always try all options to avoid the need for surgery. The outcome of this is all dependent upon the success of the initial phase. In some cases, it is possible to revitalise some of the lost gum and bone around the teeth; this is done through a minor surgical procedure. Healing is quite rapid for Gum surgery, and the process is straight forward. You should be healed and back to normal generally within a week.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are the most effective method of replacing a missing tooth or a tooth that needs saving. They do not rely on neighbouring teeth for support but are a surgical method of replacing teeth. It helps to interlink with the bone of the jaw or skull to become the foundation of a dental prosthesis such as a bridge, denture, crown, facial prosthesis, or to act as an orthodontic anchor. The procedure involves the process of inserting artificial tooth roots into the gum. These implants bond with your jawline, allowing the dentist or oral surgeon to place replacement teeth like crowns, bridges or dentures. Dental implants are made to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth, and the procedure will be as pain-free as possible. 

 

Dental Implants

  • Advantage of making your teeth look more pleasing
  • Dental implants look and feel just like natural teeth so that you won’t notice the difference. They can provide the same functionality as natural teeth and are considered an excellent option for tooth replacement.
  • Getting dental implants will significantly improve your oral health and help to improve your confidence. 
  • Getting dental implants will take the pain or sensitivity you have been experiencing away. 
  • They can also help to support your bone structure and sustain your facial tissues.
  • The success rate of dental implants is extremely high, and your existing teeth do not have to be cut with a drill, so the quality of the teeth is not sacrificed. 

In order to get dental implants, it is required that the patient has good oral health. They must have adequate bone available to support the implant. We use plenty of modern-day techniques here at Selsdon Smiles, so we can assure that the procedure will be quick and painless and will not require a general anaesthetic.

It is essential to maintain good oral health after having this procedure to ensure that the implant lasts. This is an effective method of filling in the gaps of missing teeth, creating a natural, long-lasting smile. 

 

Prosthetics

If you have suffered from tooth loss, we can also recommend our Prosthetics treatment to replace teeth. It replaces any missing teeth with removable or fixed dentures.  

Here at Selsdon Smiles, our patients are our top priority, and we use the most up-to-date technology and high-end care. Over the years, dentures have improved stability, longevity, and comfort because of these advances, and here at Smiles we will take the time to go through and ensure that your denture is perfect for you. Every patient is different, and we will take our time and ensure that you have the suitable denture and they fit perfectly to feel as natural as possible. We will have a lot of appointments to mould, test and fit the dentures as it is vital to make sure that your new dentures are as comfortable as possible and that they fit well and look as natural as possible. It is vital that your dentures fit the way you like it as we understand you will be wearing them most of the day, so it is important that they do not irritate your gums or cause you any problems while eating. 

Call us today to get booked in or inquire about our treatment options with a range of specialist treatment options that we offer here at Selsdon Smiles. We will take time to discuss the different options available and help you choose what method is suitable for you. 

 

 

Dentures

dentures

Tooth loss is an all too common phenomenon in the UK, with tooth decay affecting 31% of the adult population. It probably won’t surprise you to know that missing teeth can cause many issues that you would be better off avoiding where possible. However, dentures may be a suitable solution for you if tooth loss proves inescapable.

What Causes Tooth Loss?

Tooth decay is the main culprit behind tooth loss. While most of us are aware of the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene, many unfortunately neglect their dental health, which leads to a buildup of bacteria-filled plaque. If this plaque isn’t removed, it will eventually harden and turn into tartar, which causes tooth decay. To avoid this scenario, you must educate yourself on the basics of oral hygiene and attend your regular dental checkups to catch any problems before they become too serious.

Unfortunately, tooth loss and decay are occasionally hereditary. Despite taking sufficient care of their teeth, some people are genetically predisposed to suffer from tooth loss.

On the other hand, you may have lost a tooth due to injury. Accidents happen, regardless of how well we care for our teeth. If you’ve suffered an injury that has caused one or more of your teeth to fall out, dentures could be massively beneficial for you.

Why Do I Need Dentures?

You may qualify for either complete or partial dentures, depending on your situation. Complete dentures are ideal for those needing to replace a full dental arch, while partial dentures can effectively replace one or more teeth. 

Many find missing teeth to be a source of great insecurity, which is the last thing we at Selsdon Smiles want for our patients. On top of this, gaps in your teeth can cause functionality issues, meaning some may find it difficult to complete once-simple tasks such as eating, speaking and laughing. Our priority at Selsdon Smiles is our patients’ health and happiness. We offer dentures at affordable prices to restore not only your missing teeth, but also your quality of life.

What Happens After?

After your dentures procedure, you may experience some minor discomfort for a short period, which is expected as your mouth adapts to the new feeling. Your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment shortly after your procedure so you can inform them of any sore spots. 

We strongly recommend sticking to soft foods such as banana, mashed potato and pasta for a short while after your fitting. This will prevent discomfort and ensure your dentures stay in place. You should also cut your food into small chunks to avoid dislodging anything.

Visit Selsdon Smiles for the Best Dental Care

What’s holding you back? If you’re suffering from tooth loss, it’s important to get your teeth seen as soon as possible to prevent any further issues. Dentures are an excellent solution that will revive your confidence and have your mouth feeling good as new in no time at all. Need some advice on whether this is the right choice for you? Contact Selsdon Smiles today, and our team will be happy to help. Your new smile awaits!

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry is a form of professional dental and oral care that focuses on improving the look of your teeth and your dental health. Most Cosmetic Dentistry procedures are optional. However, some can be essential. For Cosmetic Dentistry in Selsdon, visit Selsdon Smiles.

Smile Makeovers

Selsdon Smiles have invested interest in Cosmetic Dentistry procedures giving you a ‘Smile Makeover’. So if you’re someone who is always trying to hide your smile, or you don’t feel confident in your smile due to tooth discoloration, a chip or crack, or even misalignment, we are here to help you feel beautiful again! Smile Makeovers can dramatically change the way someone looks as well as how they feel within. When creating your new smile, we consider many elements such as your facial features, age and characteristics. Meaning we have the most experienced and talented dental nurses here with an artistic eye to help construct your dream smile. Here at Selsdon Smiles, we are devoted to using our time to plan your smile before beginning any procedure, and we understand that dentistry isn’t just about improving the overall appearance, but sometimes it’s about functionality.

You may be thinking, what can a Smile Makeover do for me? Well, this procedure can repair worn, broken, chipped teeth, replace missing teeth, whiten yellow, stained and discoloured teeth, straighten overlapping and crooked teeth, and so much more!

Teeth Whitening

Another form of Cosmetic Dentistry in Selsdon is Teeth Whitening. This procedure involves lighting the colour of your teeth. As we know, teeth can become yellow over time for several reasons. Many people end up wanting to get their teeth whitened, and this can be done by changing the colour of the tooth’s enamel. Our dental nurses here at Selsdon Smiles can assist in reversing the discolouration of your teeth. Teeth Whitening can not only improve your overall confidence, but it is known to change people’s lives.

You might be wondering why your teeth have discoloured in the first place, and like mentioned previously, it can be because of many reasons. Many lifestyle habits can contribute, such as foods and drinks like tea, coffee, wine and even starchy foods. Tobacco can also have a significant impact on your teeth.

Here at Selsdon Smiles, we offer two types of Teeth Whitening procedures. Boutique Whitening, where we take impressions of your teeth and send them to the laboratory where custom trays will be made for you. We will give you those trays during your next appointment, where you will be given some chemicals to place in them and be worn overnight. Another procedure is called Airflow Cleaning; this is completed by a jet of compressed air, water, and bicarbonate particles, polishing the teeth gently and wiping away stains, leaving behind a bright, white smile! This procedure costs £75.

Veneers

Subtle changes significantly impact your appearance, such as Porcelain Veneers. The Veneers are thin, tooth-coloured Porcelain shells that are custom made to bond to the front surface of your teeth whilst also protecting the tooth’s surface from any damage, giving you a new look. Porcelain Veneers can improve the colour of your teeth, close spaces, enhance the shape of your teeth, and so much more!

Porcelain Veneers are also known as Dental Facelifts. Although they can enhance the appearance of your teeth, they can also be used to eliminate gaps between the teeth, making sure you no longer have a ‘gummy smile’.

We advise that your teeth are relatively intact and minimally restored or filled to be able to recieve the best. Porcelain Veneers are solid and resist most forces placed upon them by a regular diet.

Invisalign

For Cosmetic Dentistry in Selsdon, Invisalign is another very popular treatment. By using clear plastic trays or aligners, instead of metal brackets, your teeth can become straight in a much more realistic time scale.

Our Invisalign specialists will provide the best programme for you and will inform you of the duration of your case as well as the pricing options. With Invisalign, you could start seeing results in as little as a few weeks, depending on how complex your case is. However, the procedure usually takes around six months to be fully completed.

White Fillings

White Fillings are the best way to resolve Cavities, and Cavities occur if you don’t brush your teeth regularly. Additionally, if you already have Amalgam or Silver Fillings, or even old, worn-out fillings, we can replace them with a modern and tooth-coloured filling to achieve a better result. 

Cosmetic Dentistry in Selsdon offers White Fillings which are pretty much invisible to the naked eye, and the best part is that it can also make your teeth appear whiter and brighter. They prevent further decay of the surrounding tooth structure as the joins are sealed and restorations bonded to the tooth. We don’t just offer Porcelain Fillings; you can choose from any filling material.

Gum Line Correction

Gum Line Correction is a procedure for those who feel they have a ‘gummy smile’. This treatment helps enhance the appearance of your gums whilst creating a beautiful smile. Another treatment you may never have heard of is called ‘Gum Lifts’. This can also be used in conjunction with Veneers and Crowns. 

All-On-4

All-On-4 is a procedure that has earned the nickname of ‘Same Day, Same Teeth’. It’s a conventional implant that takes around six months with additional recovery time. This procedure is a fixed Bridge that is attached to the Dental Implant. Any remaining teeth you may have are extracted on the day of surgery, where 4-6 Implants will be placed, upper arch and lower. Before you go ahead with the procedure, our dental nurses will discuss all alternative treatment options with you.

This procedure is a more in-depth treatment, so if you feel like you will become nervous and anxious, we can arrange for you to have sedation on the day of surgery to help you feel more relaxed and at ease. The Implants will be placed; an Implant-retained Bridge will also be fitted, meaning you will leave the dentist with your ‘new smile’. Likewise, the aftercare of this treatment is detailed, and our dentists will provide you with complete care and advice.

Overall if you’re looking for treatments within Cosmetic Dentistry in Selsdon, please visit or contact us here at Selsdon Smiles. We’re here to help you and ensure you receive the best care possible.

 

Emergency Dental Appointments

Emergency Dental Appointments

Here at Selsdon Smiles, we understand that accidents happen. Despite taking amazing care of our oral health, sometimes we suffer injuries requiring urgent dental care and treatments. That’s why we offer emergency dental appointments for all our patients, designed to fix problems swiftly before they cause any more serious issues.

Is my Toothache a Dental Emergency?

For the most part, dental problems can afford to wait a week or two whilst you wait for your regular appointment. However, we understand that in some cases, the pain can be too severe for you to follow the standard procedure.
Toothache is a relatively common issue that can significantly impact your overall well-being. Whilst in most cases toothache presents itself as a persistent, dull ache, it can sometimes be more severe. Suppose your toothache is causing you a significant amount of pain and preventing you from performing your daily routine. In that case, you may need to visit Selsdon Smiles for an emergency dental appointment.

What Should I do in the Meantime?

We will always prioritise emergency dental appointments and allow you to come in as soon as your problem arises. However, if for any reason your appointment is delayed, several home remedies may provide you with temporary pain relief. Firstly, we suggest swilling a saltwater solution around the affected area two or three times a day. This will act as an antiseptic, hopefully removing any built-up bacteria from your mouth. To make your solution, add half a teaspoon of table salt to eight ounces of water.
If this proves ineffective, try over the counter painkillers such as ibuprofen, which will hopefully reduce the severity of your discomfort. We recommend applying a cold compress to your cheek for the first 24-36 hours if you suffer from any swelling. This should reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.

What If My Tooth Has Been Knocked Out?

Like we said, accidents happen. If your tooth has been cracked, chipped or knocked out by accident, you must call us immediately to prevent the risk of permanent tooth loss. Always keep hold of the knocked-out tooth if possible, either by holding it in your mouth or storing it in milk or your saliva. Avoid handling it by the root. When you arrive for your emergency dental appointment, your dentist will insert the tooth into the socket and bind it to the adjacent teeth for support. Eventually, it will heal into position.
If you can’t keep hold of your lost tooth or your dentist is unable to restore it into place, we offer a range of tooth replacement treatment options here at Selsdon Smiles. Your dentist can discuss each treatment with you in detail and recommend the most suitable course of action.

Visit Selsdon Smiles for Emergency Dental Appointments

It’s always important to maintain basic oral health in order to prevent potential dental issues. However, it is sometimes impossible to avoid situations that may put your teeth at risk. If you are in need of an emergency appointment, please get in touch with the friendly, expert team at Selsdon Smiles today. We operate Monday to Friday from 8 am to 6 pm.

Teeth Whitening: A Guide to the Most Perfect Smile

Teeth Whitening: A Guide to the Most Perfect Smile

Teeth Whitening has the power to transform your smile. You can have your teeth whitened for a variety of reasons. It is often done to reverse the effects of discolouration and give you an ultra-bright smile, but it could also help with dental anxieties and self-esteem! Teeth whitening has been around for a long time, and there’s no stopping it now. It can help you get back the smile that everyone loves while feeling better inside out! There are many reasons why your teeth may have become discoloured, such as age and genetics, but also for external reasons like drinking lots of tea and coffee, red wine or smoking cigarettes! In this blog, we look at the process behind the treatment, giving you a guide to the most perfect smile! 

How does teeth whitening work?

By using hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide to bleach the staining on your tooth enamel, the procedure absorbs into your teeth’s pores to remove discoloured taints. With Boutique Whitening, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth to ensure that the whitening result is even and balanced. The trays are made bespoke by them in a laboratory, which may involve overnight wear for you and at-home sessions once everything has settled into place! Hard to get rid of surface staining? Consider AirFlow cleaning. This system creates a high-pressure stream consisting mainly of water and particles, which efficiently removes any discolouration on your teeth without damaging their enamel, as other methods can do!

How long does it last?

There are many different ways to whiten your teeth, and the results can last anywhere from six months up three years. People tend to have a one-year worth of wear in most cases, but it depends on how often you visit us or what type we use for bleaching! Every person is entirely different due to their genetics and how strong they decide to get their teeth whitened. 

How much does it cost?

Teeth whitening is a growing trend that has been gaining momentum in recent years. However, prices often depend on the procedure you choose and where your teeth are treated. Teeth whitening has the potential to be cheaper in beauty salons, though this is illegal without dentistry certification. Airflow cleaning at Selsdon will cost you £75, and boutique whitening will depend on the request and requirements per patient! 

Can you have teeth whitening whilst pregnant?

The British Dental Association advises that whilst it is safe to have your teeth whitened by a trained professional while pregnant, it is also advised that you wait until the baby has been born. It goes against professional advice to use any home treatments to whiten your teeth, especially when pregnant!

Should I get my teeth whitened?

If you are looking for the perfect smile, teeth whitening in Selsdon can help you achieve them whiter and brighter. This procedure is safe, compliant, and effective for getting a beautiful and natural look! This treatment option is an excellent alternative to dentures or veneers, and you can brighten your smile and feel good about yourself in the process!

We know how much you want the most perfect smile, and we can help you achieve it! Get in touch with us today to chat about your options for teeth whitening in Selsdon!

Invisalign: What to Expect When You Begin Treatment

Invisalign

Invisalign is a highly effective, modern method of straightening your smile that has been growing in popularity over the past few years. Its benefits are numerous, often outweighing the perks of traditional metal braces. Here at Selsdon Smiles, we offer Invisalign treatment, perfect for anyone looking to straighten their teeth without the hassle of metal braces.

How Does the Invisalign Process Start?

If you’re interested in Invisalign treatment, it’s vital to first book a consultation with your dentist so that you can determine whether or not the treatment is suitable for your lifestyle and goals. Your dentist will go over the details of the treatment and take into consideration factors such as your medical history and your willingness to wear the treatment trays for at least 22 hours per day. They will also go over the cost of the treatment and discuss whether or not a payment plan would be beneficial for your situation.

Then What?

Once you are sure you wish to proceed, your dentist will take x-rays, impressions and photographs of your teeth, which will be sent to Invisalign technicians. These specialists will use these elements to create a 3D rendering of your teeth, which will depict their charted journey to the desired position. Using this model, the Invisalign technicians will create your custom Invisalign trays that you must wear throughout the treatment process.

What Happens Once I Get My Aligners?

These trays have been specifically created to gently push your teeth into position over the course of your treatment. You will receive several different sets of aligners that must be worn in a specific order to move your teeth in the right direction gradually. Every two weeks, you should swap your trays out for new ones. 

While Invisalign trays are certainly more convenient than traditional braces in that they are removable, you must commit to the process so that your progress remains consistent. This means keeping your aligners in for at least 22 hours per day, ideally only removing them when eating or brushing your teeth. If they aren’t worn a sufficient amount, your teeth likely won’t shift according to the plan, and your next set of aligners won’t fit.
One of the benefits of having removable aligners is that you are able to maintain greater hygiene. We strongly recommend cleaning your trays each night with a soft brush to avoid bacteria buildup. In turn, this will hopefully prevent the risk of gum disease.

What Happens After I Finish My Treatment Plan?

While your treatment plan is always devised to create the best results possible, it isn’t always feasible for your dentist to predict exactly how your teeth will move. Sometimes, a few teeth will need correcting slightly before your new smile is 100% complete. If so, you will be given refinement trays, which will tweak those last stubborn teeth into the desired position.
Once your teeth have completed their projected journey, you must wear retainers each night in order to keep them in position. You should wear retainers every night for the first few months following treatment. After this, we recommend wearing them a few times each week, as it is common for teeth to shift throughout our lives.

Visit Selsdon Smiles for Invisalign

Fancy starting your journey to the perfect smile? We can help you with that. To begin treatment or have any enquiries answered, contact Selsdon Smiles today. Your crooked teeth will soon be a distant memory!

Adjusting and Improving your Smile with General, Cosmetic & Specialist Dentistry

Adjusting and Improving your smile

Are you constantly thinking about your teeth and how to make them better? It is common to feel self-conscious about your smile, especially when there is so much pressure to keep your teeth white straight and have no tooth loss. Whilst we believe that every smile is beautiful, it is also vital to think about your oral health. Improving your oral health with general, cosmetic, and specialist dentistry in Selsdon automatically adjusts and improves your smile, too, so it’s a win-win!

General Dentistry in Selsdon

There are a lot of reasons to visit the dentist. Going for general dentistry checks in Selsdon can improve your smiles, such as regular cleanings and oral health education. General Dentistry in Selsdon can remove the build-up of plaque that is impossible to remove from your home. This visit to the dentist can improve your smile in just one go! Not only this but visiting the dentist can teach you about your daily teeth routine. From brushing to flossing, it is fascinating how many people may be brushing wrong or not doing these tasks at all! Visiting the dentist and learning from their recommendations can help with adjusting and improving your smile with general dentistry in Selsdon!

Cosmetic Dentistry in Selsdon

When we think about our dream smile, white teeth come to mind! Cosmetic Dentistry in Selsdon is extremely popular, with teeth whitening making your smile brighter and healthier. This professional treatment can improve your confidence and, therefore, produce a beautiful new smile along the way. We love making people feel good about how they look, and if you are struggling to love your smile, we can help! Dental veneers can protect your smile from damage using a porcelain material. These can enhance your appearance and adjust your smile to suit you!

Specialist Dentistry in Selsdon

When looking for a specialist for your dental treatment, it is essential to research how to improve your smile with this! Our specialist dentistry in Selsdon includes periodontics, dental implants and prosthetics. Periodontics is an inflammation of the gum and, if left untreated, can impact your breath smell and lead to tooth loss. We aim to prevent and cure your periodontitis before it becomes severe. Selsdon Smiles will then send you to our hygienist to keep track of your progress and consistently review your gum disease. However, if you have suffered from tooth loss, prosthetics can help you adjust and improve your smile. Many people have lost their teeth due to various reasons. Prosthetic treatment can improve speech and appearance for those in this situation while also ensuring that the dentures don’t come out when chewing or biting food comfortably. Specialist treatments can enhance your smile to make you feel confident and happy with your teeth again. 

VISIT SELSDON SMILES TODAY

To learn more about adjusting and improving your smile with General, Cosmetic & Specialist Dentistry, visit our treatments page! 

The Importance of Regular Dental Visits in Selsdon

The Importance of Regular Dental Visits in Selsdon

WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR VISITS IN SELSDON?

The importance of regular dental visits in Selsdon is something that many people have drilled into them from a young age. However, as we grow into adulthood, life starts to get in the way, which can mean that dental visits take a back seat in our list of priorities. Here at Selsdon Smiles, we want to impress upon our patients how essential it is to attend your regular checkups every six months or as recommended by your dentist. First, let’s cover exactly what will happen when you book a dental checkup at Selsdon Smiles.

THE EXAMINATION

When you arrive for your appointment, your dentist will first perform a thorough examination of your teeth to check for potential issues. They will check for cavities, which are crucial to spot early as they can lead to tooth decay if left untreated. An x-ray may be required for this process. During the examination, your dental professional will also check for the presence of plaque and tartar. Plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria that coats teeth, and can lead to tartar if not removed as quickly as possible. Tartar can cause oral diseases, and can only be removed by a dental professional. If needed, your dentist can clean and polish your teeth with much more effective methods than brushing that will remove any tartar from your teeth’s surface. Lastly, they will use a special tool to measure the space between your gums. If they are healthy, the gaps should be relatively shallow. Deeper gums could indicate the presence of gum disease, which may lead to more severe issues down the line.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF REGULAR DENTAL CHECKUPS?

The number one reason to attend your dental checkups is to keep your gums and teeth in a healthy condition. Many oral issues often go unnoticed and can spiral out of control if left untreated. In order to keep your smile in the best state possible and prevent any serious issues in the future, it is important to let a dental professional examine your mouth so that they can spot any undiagnosed problems.

In a similar vein, seeing your dentist regularly can be highly beneficial as they will educate you on the best techniques for good oral hygiene. Your dentist can give you advice tailored specifically to your needs and encourage you to maintain excellent oral health at all times. They can also recommend treatments that would be suitable for any problems you might be having. Should you suffer from issues such as halitosis, aka bad breath, your dentist can pinpoint the cause of the issue and recommend the appropriate cause of action to fix it. 

Lastly, we cannot overlook the importance of regular dental visits in Selsdon regarding your confidence. Neglecting to care for your teeth can lead to a host of issues that could negatively impact how your smile looks. It’s very common for people to feel insecure about yellow, decaying or crooked teeth. By attending your regular checkups, you can either prevent these issues from occurring in the first place or nip them in the bud before they seriously impact your confidence.

VISIT SELSDON SMILES TODAY

To sum up, there’s really no reason not to attend your regular dental checkups. For the best dental services possible, get in touch with Selsdon Smiles today to book your appointment.

 

How Sugar Ingredients Affect Dental Care in Selsdon

How Sugar Ingredients Affect Dental Care in Selsdon

We all know that sugar isn’t great for our oral health. How often have you heard people claim that too many sweets will rot your teeth? Probably fairly often. However, many people don’t fully understand how sugar impacts our teeth. It’s important to understand the process to prevent the damaging effects of sugar on the teeth.

Why Sugar Isn’t the Direct Cause of Tooth Decay

While there is overwhelming evidence that an overconsumption of sugar can lead to tooth decay or dental caries, sugar itself technically isn’t the main culprit. When you consume sugary foods, the bacteria found in plaque reacts with the sugar to produce lactic acid. In turn, this acid lowers the pH level of your teeth and dissolves minerals in your teeth’s enamel. Enamel is a protective coating that shields your teeth from damage. Therefore, when your enamel starts to dissolve, your teeth are left exposed and vulnerable, which can lead to the development of cavities.

Preventing the Impact of Sugar on Your Dental Health

Now that you understand how sugar ingredients affect dental care in Selsdon, there are certain steps you can take to minimise its damaging effects. The most obvious step would be to eliminate sugar from your diet, which would effectively remove the potential of tooth decay. However, it would not be sustainable or practical to cut sugar out entirely, particularly in this day and age. Therefore, it is advised to reduce your sugar intake, perhaps choosing low-sugar alternatives to your favourite foods where possible, and eating sugary snacks in moderation. It is also recommended that you reserve sugary foods for mealtimes, keeping your snacks as low in sugar as possible. When consuming sugary beverages, using a straw can be highly beneficial, as this will limit your teeth’s exposure to the sugar and acids of your drink.

Another simple but highly effective step you can take is to maintain proper and consistent oral hygiene. It’s not a bad idea to rinse your mouth out with water after consuming sugary foods in order to remove any leftover food or sugar from your teeth. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is essential, as this will remove the damaging plaque and bacteria before they can do serious damage. When purchasing toothpaste, be sure to check it contains fluoride, as this will be most effective in cleaning your teeth. After brushing, always remember to floss, as this will remove any food caught between your teeth. If neglected, this leftover food can lead to tooth decay.

Come to Selsdon Smiles for Preventive and Restorative Dental Care

Now that you understand how sugar ingredients affect dental care in Selsdon, it’s critical that you apply the tips mentioned above to your daily life in order to avoid tooth decay and dental caries. Moreover, one of the best things you can do for your oral health is to ensure you are attending regular dental checkups. Visiting Selsdon Smiles at regular intervals will make you aware of any dental issues before they get too serious or expensive to treat. Should you need them, our dental team offers an extensive array of dental treatments suitable for any problem you might be having. Please contact Selsdon Smiles and talk to our friendly staff to book an appointment today.