Tooth Whitening

When do baby teeth erupt? Not soon enough for most parents, I have found. This seems to be a common source of anxiety for parents. In actual practice, when the teeth first erupt is of no medical significance whatsoever. They come in when they come in, and that is that. In the few instances where the eruption of teeth is delayed for a medical reason, it is always a serious hormonal problem (hypothyroidism or growth hormone deficiency) that has manifested itself in some other way or has been detected by newborn screening already by the time delayed eruption of teeth is noted. (more…)

Why would I need an x-ray?
Early tooth decay does not tend to show many physical signs. Sometimes the tooth looks healthy, but your dentist will be able to see from an x-ray (radiograph)whether you have any decay under the enamel, any possible infections in the roots, or any bone loss around the tooth.

X-rays can help the dentist to see in between your teeth or under the edge of your fillings. Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save both time and money. (more…)

Why should I consider white fillings?
Most people have fillings of one sort or another in their mouths. Nowadays fillings are not only functional, but can be natural looking as well. Many people don’t want silver fillings that show when they laugh or smile because they are more conscious about the way they look.

Can I get white fillings on the NHS? (more…)

I’ve had my tooth out – what should I do now?
Take it easy for the rest of the day. Take as little exercise as you can, and rest as much as you can. Keep your head up to avoid any bleeding.
 

What precautions should I take? (more…)

What is a hygienist?
Dental hygienists are specially trained to work with the dentist in giving care to patients.

They play an important role in dental health care and are mainly concerned with gum health, showing people correct home care and applying preventive materials to the teeth and gums.

What is the hygienist’s role in the practice? (more…)

What is a veneer?
A veneer is a thin layer of porcelain made to fit over the front surface of a tooth, like a false fingernail fits over a nail. Sometimes a natural colour ‘composite’ material is used instead of porcelain.

When would I need a veneer? (more…)

What are the common causes of mouth ulcers?
Usually a single mouth ulcer is due to damage caused by say biting the cheek or tongue, sharp teeth, tooth brushing or poorly fitting dentures. These ulcers are called ‘traumatic ulcers’. If you have a number of mouth ulcers the usual cause is ‘recurrent aphthous stomatitis’.

What are the signs of recurrent aphthous stomatitis? (more…)

Why is a healthy smile important?
An attractive and healthy smile is important when meeting people and making friends. And it can boost your confidence to help you feel good about yourself.

If you don’t look after your teeth and gums properly you could suffer from a number of different conditions that will make you stand out from the crowd for all the wrong reasons:

• bad breath (more…)

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 don’t 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? (more…)

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

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

What causes sensitive teeth? (more…)