New Year Resolutions … tips to start the new year with a healthy smile.

Having overindulged on all those sweet treats and drinks over the festive period, the start of the new year brings with it new year resolutions to now focus on creating a healthy lifestyle. Here’s some tips to help start and maintain that healthy you with your healthy smile.

Drink plenty of water

About 70 % of the human body is comprised of water. Keeping hydrated has a huge impact on our overall health as our cells and organs require water to function properly. Some of the benefits of good hydration are that it helps with brain function and mood levels, and may prevent and treat headaches. Drinking plenty of water also aids digestion and removal of toxins, as well as maintaining good skin condition. It is recommended we drink about 2-3 litres of water a day.

Eat a healthy balanced diet

A balanced diet is a way of eating all of the right nutrients that our body needs in order to be healthy. Everyone’s bodies are different and often individuals require a different amount and type of nutrients. Vitamins and minerals in the diet are vital to boost immunity and healthy development, A healthy diet can protect the human body against certain types of diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, heart diseases, bone conditions and some types of cancer. It is recommended vegetables and fruit makes up just over a third of our daily diet. The rest should be made up of proteins ( such as pulses, eggs, fish, poultry, meat, low fat milk and yoghurt) and carbohydrates (such as wholemeal/wholegrain rice, pasta, breads) along with small amounts of unsaturated fats.

Limit the amount of sugary & acidic foods & drinks

Sugar produces acids that causes tooth decay as well as causing obesity which can lead to other diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and some cancers. Consuming sugar more frequently means your teeth are exposed to the plaque acids for longer putting them at a higher risk of tooth decay. If having chocolates, try to go for dark chocolate with high cocoa content as it can be less damaging to teeth. Diet sugar drinks may help to avoid the decay factor but they erode enamel tooth surface, causing tooth wear.

Reduce alcohol consumption

Too much alcohol can increase the chances of getting heart disease, liver cirrhosis and cancers including mouth cancer. Statistics suggest oral cancer diagnosis is six times higher in those who drink than non-drinkers. Acute alcohol consumption can also cause reduced saliva flow. Saliva is our natural defence to diseases such as tooth decay. Alcoholic drinks also tend to contain more sugar and are more acidic, which can lead to tooth decay and tooth wear.

Avoid tobacco use

Smoking can cause many of the same diseases as alcohol but also many more. Smoking and drinking combined increases risks to diseases. Smoking or chewing tobacco, alone is responsible for 80-90% of oral cancer cases. Smoking can also cause gums disease, bad breath, discoloured teeth and plaque build up.

Exercise regularly

Whatever your age, scientific evidence shows that being physically active can help you lead a healthier and even happier life. People who do regular activity have a lower risk of many diseases, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and some cancers. It’s good to be active daily, and it’s recommended to do at least 2 and half hours of exercise a week. This can range from walking, cycling or more intense exercise and sports.

Keep your teeth clean

Our mouth is the gateway to our body. Healthy teeth and gums allow us to chew our food effectively thereby providing our body with the nutrients required for it to function properly. A healthy smile gives us confidence to meet and talk to people.

Our mouth contains plaque bacteria. Plaque is a major cause of gum disease and tooth decay. Recent research studies show gum disease can put us at a higher risk to general health problems such as heart disease. One theory is that gum disease allows the bacteria that inhabit our mouth to enter the bloodstream and circulate around the body allowing them to settle in the heart blood vessels. Research has also shown some links between gum disease and stroke, respiratory disease, head and neck cancer, kidney disease and diabetes.

Cleaning teeth effectively twice a day helps keep plaque bacterial levels low in the mouth. Brush your teeth for 2-3 minutes using a fluoride toothpaste and spit out after instead of rinsing. Clean in between your teeth using floss or interdental brushes or another suitable product. Don’t forget to gently brush your tongue. Replace your toothbrush every 3 months. Everyone’s mouth is different and certain products will be more suitable for certain people. At dentael we provide bespoke patient advice on what products are specifically suitable for your mouth.

Visit your dentist regularly for a dental check up & professional cleaning

A dental check-up allows your dentist to see if you have any dental problems  you may not be aware of, such as tooth decay, gum disease, tooth wear or ulcers. Leaving problems untreated could make them more difficult to treat in the future, so it’s best to deal with problems early, or, if possible, prevent them altogether. Even when cleaning your teeth twice daily, plaque and tartar will build up in hard to reach places. Your mouth, teeth and gums are examined, the findings discussed and oral health advice given. This along with a professional cleaning to remove plaque, tartar and stains, helps to keep your mouth healthy and maintain your smile.

To book your appointment  … please call   020 8997 0006 or submit online appointment request form

 

5 simple facts about gum disease …

Even though gum disease affects more than 45% of adults in the UK, a lot of people do not realise they have gum disease. In the early stages there may not be obvious signs such as painful or tender gums. Futhermore, the effects of gum disease (periodontal disease) are often underestimated and overlooked by many people. Uncontrolled gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other health issues.

Fact 1

Bleeding gums when tooth brushing are often a sign of early gum disease (gingivitis). Red or swollen gums are also a sign of gingivitis.

Healthy gums should be firm and not bleed when brushing, flossing or touching them.

At the early stage, symptoms can often be reversed  by professional cleaning and improving daily homecare routine.

Fact 2

It is important to clean in between teeth daily to maintain healthy gums. This is usually done by using floss or interdental brushes, as toothbrush bristles do not normally reach between teeth.

Fact 3

Inadequate oral hygiene is not the only way you can get gum disease. Although it is the most common cause of gum disease, there are other risk factors also. These include, smoking, stress, and hormonal changes. Also, some people are prone to gum disease due to genetics.

Fact 4

Gum disease is serious. Recent research has shown links between gum disease and diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease, and some cancers. It is understood people with gum disease may be more susceptible to other general health problems and vice versa.

Fact 5

Gum disease can be prevented and controlled. The best way to prevent gum disease is regular visits to the dentist for examinations and professional cleanings, along with good daily homecare.

Dental Hygiene Appointments

At dentael we offer dental hygiene appointments with our experienced female Dentist, and our friendly Dental Nurse assisting to ensure your comfort throughout your visit. Benefit from having your teeth professionally cleaned at our nearby modern dental clinic in Perivale Ealing (W5). By removing tartar and tooth stains we aim to help you gain a healthy and brighter smile.

Bespoke homecare advice is given to help you take control of your dental health and maintain your smile. You are also given a free prevention pack of toothpastes to take away.

Common hygiene treatments are a Routine Cleaning for £49, or an Intensive Cleaning from £87.

To benefit from our professional dental cleanings or other dental services … please call  020 8997 0006 or submit online appointment request form.

“ My appointment was very helpful and informative.

 The service and hygiene treatment was excellent

Thank you to the great staff ! ”

Mrs LB

Appointment Request

Teeth professionally cleaned by us …

Dental Hygiene Services 

Teeth Cleaning Ealing, Perivale – dentael

At our friendly modern dental clinic we offer professional teeth cleaning. This removes plaque and tartar from those hard to reach places, helping to prevent gum disease and cavities. We are also able to remove most staining from teeth to achieve a much whiter, brighter smile.

 

Before the cleaning, there was tartar and stain build up.

 

Result after an intensive professional cleaning.  (Fee £85)

(A routine professional cleaning fee is £49)

To book your appointment  … please call  020 8997 0006 or submit online appointment request form

 

“ Felt very comfortable.

No pain in having teeth cleaned, which made quite a difference.”

     Ms NB

 

Reasons why your smile matters …

There’s been many studies over the years that have looked at the benefits of a smile.

A single smile can bring many advantages to us, some of which are below .

Attraction

Our smile is often the first feature noticed when we meet someone. Whether it’s a professional or social meeting, we’re often drawn to those people who are smiling.

Mood changing

When we’re feeling down or not so good, a smile can lift our spirits and lighten our mood.

Relieves stress

With our busy lifestyles, it’s all so easy to get stressed. Stress can often be easily recognised on someone’s face. Smiling can be a simple way of relieving stress.

Boosts the immune system

Smiling relaxes us, when we’re relaxed our immune system works better.

Lowers blood pressure

Blood pressure is reduced as a result of being more relaxed when smiling.

A natural pain reliever

When we smile, we release endorphins and serotonin which are natural pain relievers.

Appearance

Smiling lifts the face muscles which makes us look younger.

Confidence

People who smile look more confident. This may also contribute to success in their professional and personal life.

So the next time you’re feeling down or see someone else who’s feeling down …

… SMILE … it will benefit you both  🙂

To book your appointment with our experienced female dentist … please call  020 8997 0006 or submit online appointment request form.

“ Professional, comfortable and felt like I was in good hands. ”

Miss MN

Caring for your teeth over the Festive Season  

The holiday period is a fun time meeting up with family and friends and indulging in food and drink. In this busy period we often forget about our dental health, making our teeth vulnerable to damage. Below are some tips on how to avoid getting into problems.

Teeth Crackers

Toffees

Sweets and chocolates are readily available during the festive period, whether at home as treats or tubs passed around the office. Many people who usually don’t eat toffees are unpleasantly surprised when popping a treat in their mouth they suddenly realise they’ve lost a filling or broken a tooth.

Nuts

Nuts are a Christmas Classic for cracking teeth. Be very careful while eating or consider avoiding hard nuts and go for softer options.

Crackling

Well cooked crispy crackling is another Christmas Classic teeth cracker.

Overindulgence

Sugar drinks and sweet treats are around in plentiful during the festive period. Sugar produces acids that causes tooth decay. If having chocolates, try to go for dark chocolate with high cocoa content as it can be less damaging to teeth. Diet sugar drinks may help to avoid the decay factor but they erode enamel tooth surface, causing tooth wear.

Limit your consumption of coffee, tea and red wine as these drinks can easily stain  your teeth. Smoking will also stain teeth, so perhaps make a start to that new year resolution ‘stop smoking’ before the new year begins !

Homecare routine

With the festive season being such a busy time preparing for the big day and enjoying all the parties before and after, it’s all too easy to lapse the daily homecare routine. Ensure you brush your teeth before going to bed, no matter how late you get in after that fun party. Also remember to clean inbetween your teeth with interdental brushes or floss.

Summary

Try to limit the amount and frequency of sugar drinks and foods.

Ensure your clean your teeth daily with a fluoride toothpaste.

Drink lots of water in between all the treats to help remove harmful acids produced when consuming sugar.

Enjoy the Festive Celebrations and remember to book your routine dentist visit in the New Year !

Outlined below are a few helpful guides to assist you when dealing with dental emergencies:

Broken Tooth/Lost Filling

If you have a broken tooth or a lost filling, don’t panic! Usually these situations are only irritating to the tongue and a little sensitive and you probably don’t need to visit the emergency service. Keep the area as clean as best you can and contact the practice at your earliest convenience.

Lost Crown

If the tooth is not sensitive or unsightly, keep the crown in a safe place and contact us at your earliest convenience. If the tooth is sensitive or unsightly then you can get some temporary crown cement from your local chemist but please do not use any other   glue based materials as this may prevent us from being able to recement the crown permanently.

Painful Wisdom Teeth

Sometimes food gets trapped beneath the piece of gum that covers over the wisdom tooth. This can cause swelling  and occasionally prevent full opening of the mouth. In such cases, the best thing to do is keep the area clean with a toothbrush and warm salt mouthrinses or Chlorohexidine Mouthwash (which can be purchased from the chemist and some supermarkets). You may also need some painkillers – any that would normally be taken for headaches are suitable.  (please ensure you are not allergic to any mouthwash/medicines prior to using)

Dislodged Teeth Due To Trauma

If the problem is with a baby tooth that has been knocked out completely or pushed up into the gum, please try not to worry! Usually tender loving care, pain relieving medication and reassurance will see you through until you can get to see us. It is, however, very important that you contact us as soon as possible as this will need careful monitoring.

For adult teeth, if the tooth has been cracked or chipped but is not too painful then please do not be overly concerned. Contact us as soon as possible and we will be able to help. For any more serious accidents, please visit the A&E department of your nearest hospital. It may occasionally be possible to save teeth that have been completely knocked out – the best chance of doing this is if the tooth is stored in milk until you reach hospital.

At dentael, we don’t just believe in helping to ‘ fix ‘ the problem, but to help avoid future dental problems.We help you understand the risks of dental diseasessuch as gum disease,  tooth decay, and tooth wear, and how these can be reduced by simple measures you can do at home and preventative treatment procedures. We explain and show you what to do in your daily homecare routine to reduce your risks to them. We develop a Personal Dental Care Plan specifically tailored to each individual patient’s needs.

10 Homecare Tips for Dental Health & General Wellbeing

1.  Visit your dentist regularly, as often as recommended.

2.  Clean your teeth twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste.

3.  Replace your toothbrush every 3 months.

4.  Clean in between your teeth using floss or a suitable product.

5.  Reduce the amount & frequency of sugar & acidic foods/drinks.

6.  Avoid tobacco use.

7.  Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.

8.  Drink plenty of water.

9.  Eat a healthy balanced diet.

10. Exercise regularly.

10 Reasons why regular visits to the dentist helps …

1. keep your teeth for longer

2. have a cleaner, whiter smile

3. avoid bad breath

4. child’s overall development

5. general health with diabetes & cardiovascular problems

6. prevent problems from developing

7. spot problems early so treatment is simpler

8. simpler treatment saves money

9. receive prevention advice specific to you

10. maintain your smile to improve your confidence

Close the Gap !

Want to improve your smile but avoid the time and cost of braces or veneers?

White direct composite restorations are often a simple, affordable alternative to braces and veneers.

Braces are usually expensive, can take take months or years to complete treatment, and often are visible when smiling. These are some of the reasons why many people avoid having braces.

However in certain situations such as gaps between teeth, Direct White Tooth Coloured Restorations/Fillings can be a simple, affordable alternative to braces. Results can often be achieved in one appointment.

The procedure involves adding white composite filling material to the tooth to change the tooth shape. It is a conservative and comfortable treatment option because the composite is bonded to the tooth thereby avoiding any cutting of the tooth. Prices are from around £400 to close the gap between the top front two teeth, making it a cost effective treatment choice instead of braces or veneers.

To book your appointment and find out how we can help to improve your smile … please call  020 8997 0006 or submit online appointment request form.

Appointment Request

Tooth wear … do you have it ?

A large portion of the population have some degree of tooth wear yet they are unaware of it.

How do I know if I have tooth wear ?

Often there are obvious signs of tooth wear, such as chipped teeth and changes in the tooth shape, or teeth appear yellower or darker in colour. There may be sensitivity to hot,cold or sweet. However sometimes the signs are not so obvious. These can be translucency or thinning of the edge of the front teeth, small dips in the biting surface of back teeth, or notches on the teeth near the gum line. Any of these signs indicate the protective outer enamel layer of the teeth has been damaged. Once the enamel has worn away it does not grow back.

What causes tooth wear ?

There are 3 main types of tooth wear – Erosion, Abrasion and Attrition. The outer hard enamel layer is worn away, and can lead to exposure of the inner softer dentine layer.

Erosion, sometimes known as Acid Wear, is commonly caused by acidic foods or drinks we consume in our diets, that dissolve away the tooth structure. A snacking culture along with demand of fresh fruit and juices/smoothies may have contributed to the increase in erosive tooth wear in recent times.
In certain patients, acid reflux may also be a cause.

Abrasion is caused by an object rubbed against the tooth surface, such as a toothbrush when brushing too hard, or an abrasive toothpaste.

Attrition occurs where teeth rub against each other such as a habit of grinding or clenching teeth.

How can I protect my teeth from the effects of tooth wear ?

During your dental check up with us, we check for tooth wear and advise accordingly. Treatments may vary from a prevention approach, to applying white fillings to protect damaged teeth from further damage. Once the outer enamel layer has worn away the inner dentine layer wears away at a quicker rate because it’s softer than the enamel. White fillings are a comfortable and conservative treatment option which allows placement of a protective covering whilst avoiding drilling the tooth. The white filling bonds to the underlying tooth structure. With white fillings starting from approximately £100 per tooth, they are a cost effective way to protect teeth from further damage and have the added benefit of improving your smile.

Custom made mouthguards are another cost effective treatment for protecting teeth from tooth wear. They are useful in situations where teeth have been worn due to a habit of grinding or clenching teeth, often known as Bruxism. At dentael, we provide custom made mouthguards at the affordable price from £95.

There are some homecare prevention methods you may use to help reduce your risks to tooth wear.

1. Avoid acidic foods and drinks. If you are having them, try to limit the amount and frequency of them. Try to keep them to meal times.
2. Avoid swishing fizzy drinks/ juices / smoothies inside your mouth.
3. Avoid brushing your teeth after having acidic food or drink as the enamel is softer at this time.
4. Brush your teeth using a soft/medium bristled toothbrush twice a day. Do not put too much pressure when brushing and avoid using an abrasive toothpaste.
5. Use a daily fluoride alcohol-free mouthwash.
6. Have regular dental checkups to keep your teeth healthy and looking good.

To book your appointment and find out how we can help protect your teeth and improve your smile … please call  020 8997 0006 or submit online appointment request form.

“ Fantastic experience, ensuring a quality job

has been undertaken whilst also 

always making sure my comfort.

Excellent job ! ”

Mr MH

Appointment Request

Are your teeth sensitive to hot, cold or sweet ?

 

What causes sensitive teeth ?

As your local dentist we’re here to help you with your dental concerns. Teeth may be sensitive for a number of different reasons. Teeth are often sensitive when dentine is exposed.

Dentine is the layer of tooth structure under the outer enamel layer. It has channels(tubules) that go to the inner nerve part of the tooth.

Dentine is often exposed near the gum line, when the gums pull away from the teeth or when gum tissue is lost. Dentine can also become exposed if the outer enamel layer on teeth wears away.

Below are some factors that can contribute to sensitive teeth :

• Tooth decay : This is a common cause of pain on hot, cold or sweet. Treatment may require a filling to be placed in the tooth.
• Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles will lead to gum recession and/or tooth wear.
• Sugary and acidic foods and drinks : this can lead to erosion tooth wear by wearing away the enamel.
• Teeth grinding : this can lead to the tooth surface wearing away.
• Gum disease : this can lead to gum recession. ( the gums shrink back )
• A cracked tooth or filling : A crack can run from the outer surface of the tooth towards the root and the inner part of the tooth.
• Age :  Gums can naturally recede over time.
• Teeth whitening : Some patients have sensitivity for a short time after teeth whitening.

 

Tips to help prevent sensitivity :

• Visit your dentist to establish the cause of your sensitivity, so it is treated appropriately
• Brush your teeth twice a day effectively using the correct toothbrush.
• Clean in between your teeth using floss or interdental brushes to help prevent gum disease.
• Avoid acidic foods and drinks
• Avoid stress as this can lead to a teeth grinding habit
• If sensitivity is due to exposed dentine, using a sensitive toothpaste is likely to help. We let you know if this is suitable for you
• Our dentist may apply de-sensitising paste on your teeth over a number of visits
• Your may require a white filling to cover the exposed dentine. This is often a simple procedure.

To book your appointment with our friendly dentist … please call   020 8997 0006 or submit online appointment request form.

“ Excellent service and very informative, helpful staff. ”

Mr SH

Appointment Request