Dental blog - Stourbridge | Stourbridge West Midlands

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Take?

Posted on December 19, 2019 by Dr Philip McDermott

how long does teeth whitening take

One of the questions many people ask is how long does teeth whitening take, throughout this article we will look at this plus many other questions related to the whitening process.

Teeth get discolored due to many reasons over an extended period of time. Poor oral hygiene i.e., regular brushing and flossing, is one reason. But even regular brushing and flossing may not save your teeth from getting yellow over some time.

Other factors that cause discoloring of teeth frequently include tobacco consumption, liquor, certain types of foods with the ability to stain your teeth (like red wine, coffee and tea), and eating regularly, gastric acid, and genetic effects. And if your teeth got pale once, they will likely get discolored again in the future, needing many teeth whitening. Apart from the expense, how much of your precious time will that take? Teeth whitening is of three types, and each takes different times and offers different results and, of course, different expenses.

Conventional Whitening Schemes

Historically people have been conscious about the brightness of their teeth. Many whitening techniques and whitening kits have been used over the ages, and some are still in use in various parts of the world. These include brushing with biological material like a peal of the walnut tree, miswaak (cutting of a green branch of some medicinal trees like neem), charcoal, or soda or special oils (oil pulling).

Currently, many kinds of toothpaste based on these are also available in the market. These are cheap and are used as part of the brushing routine. Hence, they demand no extra time consumption. The results, of course, are slow and demand regularity.

Chemical Whitening

Much faster results are obtained by using new chemical products. The active agent almost invariably is the hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching gel used almost all whitening treatments and tends to bleach any tissue it comes in contact with. Thus, it can bleach your gums also.

The time required for teeth whitening and the resulting whitening effect depend on (1) the extent of staining to be removed (2) the strength of the chemical and (3) the time your teeth are exposed to it. There are three usual methods of chemical whitening.

At-Home Whitening– Over the counter products are available, which contain gels having carbamide peroxide. This chemical release hydrogen peroxide, which works on the teeth surfaces. The gel is applied in trays, which are pulled over the teeth and worn for some time.

How much time should you wear these trays for? As long as possible for as many days as possible, typically a minimum of 2 hours per day but often overnight. The first time you should wear the trays for about an hour only. If no untoward effects are noticed, you can gradually increase the wearing time which can extend to overnight also. The process will typically go on for two to four weeks.

Dentist Supervised at Home Whitening– Off the shelf home whitening products use gel trays with a universal size that everyone must wear. Such trays will not fit properly. There will be chances of a spillover of the gel and discoloring of your gums. A rather weak chemical must be used. To overcome this, your dentist can have a custom tray made for your teeth and give you a gel, which is stronger and faster. Still, you are advised to wear these trays along as possible even overnight. The advantage is that your gums will be safer, and you will wear them for fewer days.

In–Office Whitening– In-office whitening is the ultimate in teeth whitening. The dentist takes expert care to protect gums by applying a protective coating before applying the whitening chemical. The dentist can use a much stronger chemical safely and the time taken for whitening is much shorter, typically 30 minutes.

Usually, a few visits only are necessary each of which may extend over one to two hours. In some cases, the chemical action is expedited by laser treatment. That is often referred to as laser whitening. The “zoom” whitening is also offered by some offices, which completes the whitening process in two to three hours in a single day.

what are the risks of tooth whitening

The whitening process, especially the in-office procedure, is a safe procedure. However, some people may feel sensitivity for a few days. You may also feel mild irritation of your gums, which will wear off soon.

Tagged with: Teeth whitening
Posted in Cosmetic dentistry

My Gums Bleed When I Clean my Teeth, is this a Problem

Posted on September 26, 2019 by Dr Philip McDermott

Gums bleed when teeth cleaned

Do you notice a blood a bit of red or pink when you spit out the toothpaste after brushing? Or do find that your dental floss contains blood after you finish cleaning your teeth? If the answer to the above questions is a yes, then chances are that you are suffering from an underlying dental or medical problem. Although a very small amount of blood may not be any reason to be alarmed, if your gums bleed every time you brush your teeth, then it is a matter you must not take lightly.

Why Gums Bleed During Brushing?

You might wonder as to why your gums are bleeding in the first place? Here are some of the situations which can cause gum bleeding:

Gum Inflammation – The primary reason behind gum bleeding is gum inflammation, which is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar deposits on the teeth and around the gums. Harmful bacteria which cause teeth cavities and periodontal disease find plaque and tartar deposits as ideal places for growth and breeding. When the bacteria grow in number, they utilize sugars from the plaque and tartar and release harmful metabolic products which result in an inflammation of the gums. This condition is clinically visible in the form of swollen, red and bleeding gums.
Medical Conditions and Medications– some chronic medical conditions such as kidney problems, vitamin C deficiency, and diabetes can also result in gum inflammation, which manifests in the form of bleeding while brushing or flossing. Furthermore, certain medications can also cause gum bleeding.
Hormonal Changes – some women also observe that their gums become sensitive and swollen during pregnancy, and they tend to bleed while brushing or flossing. Similarly, some women may have gum bleeding during menstruation.

Is it Normal?

As discussed earlier, occasional minor bleeding from gums while brushing or flossing is not something to be worried about. However, if you feel that your gums bleed every time your brush, then it is a cause for concern as it may be an indication of a more serious underlying medical or dental problems.

How to Stop Gum Bleeding

If you are also suffering from gum bleeding, then the following measures can help you get rid of it.

Oral Hygiene Maintenance – since poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of gum problems and bleeding, maintaining your oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing can help you get rid of the inflammation.
Professional Teeth Cleaning – when plaque and tartar deposits have formed on the teeth, it’s virtually impossible to remove them through brushing or flossing. The only option available now to remove them is professional teeth cleaning. Teeth cleaning involves the use of ultrasonic scaling instruments which remove the plaque and tartar deposits from the teeth. The cleaned teeth are then polished at the end of the procedure to slow down chances of re-attachment of plaque and tartar.
Eating Healthy Diet – eating tooth-friendly foods can go a long way in ensuring that you maintain pearly white teeth and healthy, pink gums throughout life.
Visit your GP – if the above-mentioned measures do not prove successful in treating the gum inflammation, then your gum problem might be because of an underlying medical problem. Moreover, certain medications for high blood pressure or seizures can also cause gum inflammation. Visit your GP so that an in-depth evaluation of the underlying cause can be made.

Frequent bleeding from your gums, either during eating or brushing, is a serious condition. Fortunately, it can be avoided by ensuring that you look after your teeth and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleaning. Simply follow these measures and you won’t have to see blood when you spit your toothpaste out after brushing!

Do I Need to Have a Dental Cleaning?

Before we discuss why teeth cleaning is important for everyone, let us understand what is meant by professional teeth cleaning. Teeth cleaning is a dental procedure in which your dentist or dental hygienist will use special dental instruments to remove plaque and tartar debris form your teeth.

Many people feel that since they brush their teeth regularly, they don’t need to undergo professional cleaning. This assumption is not correct! While these people may not have to undergo teeth cleaning as frequently, but that would still have to get their teeth professional cleaned as recommended by their dentists.

Why Dental Cleanings are Necessary

When we eat our food, some of the food particles tend to adhere to our teeth. If these adhered food particles are not removed, they become safe havens for the growth and replication of bacteria which cause teeth cavities and gum inflammation.

Normally, brushing and flossing are good measures to remove these food deposits from tooth surfaces which can be easily accessed by the toothbrush or the dental floss. Unfortunately, regular oral hygiene measures such as flossing and brushing are unable to clean the tight spaces between adjacent teeth, and the back which are difficult to clean completely. As a result, bacterial start utilizing the plaque deposits on the teeth for their growth, and in turn, they release harmful toxins which cause inflammation of gums and periodontal infection.

If the condition is not corrected timely, the toxins released by the bacteria start destroying the fibers which attach the teeth with the gums and the jawbone. Ultimately, spaces, or “pockets” start to form between the teeth and the gums. With further disease progression, the toxins destroy the jawbone, making the teeth mobile in their sockets. If you continue to ignore the situation and don’t seek dental treatment, these teeth will eventually fall off!

But all this can be avoided with professional dental cleanings. During the cleaning procedure, your dentist will use an ultrasonic scaler, which vibrates at a very high frequency to remove plaque and tartar deposits on your teeth. If the periodontal problems are treated in their early stages, the chances of complete recovery are very high. Therefore, it is important that you visit your dentist regularly for checkups so that the plaque and tartar deposits are removed timely before they can cause periodontal inflammation.

How Often Do I Need to have my Teeth Cleaned?

Moreover, it is not necessary for everyone to undergo teeth cleaning twice a year. In fact, according to the latest recommendations of the American Dental Association (ADA), dentists will decide the frequency of teeth cleanings necessary according to the oral health status of the patients. While patients who are prone to having gum problems may need to undergo teeth cleanings twice a year, healthy individuals may only need to have their teeth cleaned once in a year.

Professional teeth cleaning is a safe and effective preventive treatment, which ensures that you retain sparkling white teeth and healthy gums throughout life. Furthermore, getting your teeth professionally cleaned has other advantages as well. In addition to preventing gum infections, teeth cleanings also help you in saving your hard-earned money, which would otherwise have been spent on restorative treatment. In addition, you will also save yourself from the inconvenience of undergoing lengthy procedures.

After all, we all know that prevention is always better than cure.

Tagged with: bleeding gums, dental hygiene
Posted in Dental health

Abscess on a Tooth; Everything you Need to Know

Posted on June 20, 2019 by Dr Philip McDermott

An abscess is a collection which can form inside an infected tooth, around inflamed gums or inside the jawbone. When an abscess appears around a tooth, it is known as a periodontal abscess.

What Causes an Abscess on A Tooth?

The primary reason for the development of a tooth abscess is poor oral hygiene. However, some of the situations which can increase the risk of development of a tooth abscess include:

Teeth Cavities – long-standing teeth cavities increase the chances of penetration of the harmful bacteria deeper within the tooth structure, thereby leading to the formation of an abscess.
Gum Disease – when there is prolonged adherence of the plaque and tartar on the teeth, the harmful bacteria result in an inflammation of the gums and the periodontal tissues, ultimately leading to an infection.
Tooth Injury – when a tooth becomes fractured or cracked due to an injury, there are chances that the underlying pulp tissue may become exposed to the oral environment. If this happens, the harmful bacteria result in an inflammation of the pulp tissue. If the condition is not treated timely, the infection may extend into the gums and periodontal tissues, resulting in a pus-filled swelling around the infected tooth.

What are the Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess?

The most common and obvious sign of a tooth abscess is swelling. However, if you’re suffering from some or all of the following symptoms, then there are chances that you are having an abscess on a tooth:

Pain – the pain may be continuous, or it may be felt whenever you eat or drink something. In advanced stages, the pain associated with a dental abscess may not be relieved with a painkiller.
Swelling – the swelling becomes visible due to the formation of pus around the tooth and the gums. Sometimes, pus can be seen oozing out of the swelling when you brush your teeth or press the inflamed gums.
Bad Taste and Odor – the bad taste and foul odor are due to the presence of pus inside the oral cavity.
Fever – severe infection inside or around the tooth can also result in high-grade fever.
Lose Tooth – the affected tooth may appear mobile due to long-standing periodontal disease.

How is a Tooth Abscess Treated?

The treatment of a tooth abscess involves elimination of the underlying cause. Some of the measures undertaken by dentists to treat an abscess include:

Professional Teeth Cleaning – this procedure involves the use of an ultrasonic scaler which is used for removing the plaque and tartar deposits from the teeth. This helps in reducing the symptoms, and in minimizing future chances of development of an abscess.
Root Canal Treatment – this is the ultimate solution to save an abscessed tooth from extraction. A root canal procedure involves using a special instrument to remove the inflamed pulp from the infected tooth.
Surgical Drainage of the Infection – if required, your dentist may also surgically drain the pus to reduce the symptoms.
Antibiotic Therapy – in case of severe infection, your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics which are helpful in accelerating the healing process.

Once the infection has been completely treated, the affected tooth is restored with a suitable filling material. In case the tooth receives heavy chewing forces, then it must be reinforced with a crown to prevent chances of fracture.

A dental abscess is undoubtedly a painful condition, which can be easily prevented. Simply maintain optimal oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing, and frequent dental visits, and you won’t have to worry about gum problems, teeth cavities or tooth abscesses anymore.

Tagged with: tooth abscess
Posted in Dental health

What Causes a Dry Mouth?

Posted on May 31, 2019 by Dr Philip McDermott

We all know that water is essential for the survival and normal functioning of our body. But did you also know that the saliva, which is largely composed of water is also essential for our dental health? Our oral cavities are constantly being bathed with the saliva, which not only provides a cleansing effect on the teeth, but it also provides an antibacterial and digestive function.

What is Dry Mouth?

Under normal conditions, saliva is being constantly made inside the oral cavity by the salivary glands. However, there are certain conditions in which the oral cavity does not make enough saliva to perform all the essential functions. As a result, the mouth becomes dry and creates problems during speech and eating. This condition is known as dry mouth, scientifically known as xerostomia.

What are the Causes of a Dry Mouth?

A dry mouth can be caused due to a variety of reasons:

Dehydration – this is one of the most common causes of transient xerostomia. Conditions which excessive water loss from the body such as sweating, diarrhea, blood loss or vomiting can lead to a dry mouth.
Lifestyle Habits – excessive smoking or chewing of tobacco tends to damage the salivary glands. This results in reduced production and release of saliva into the oral cavity.
Nerve Damage – traumatic injury of the head or the face may result in damage to the nerves which supply the salivary glands, resulting in decreased salivary flow.
A side effect of Medical Treatments – damage to the salivary glands during radiotherapy or chemotherapy for cancer treatment can also cause dry mouth.
Side Effect of Medical Conditions – dry mouth can also be a side effect of various medical conditions like the HIV/AIDS and other autoimmune diseases, Sjögren Syndrome, Anemia, Cystic Fibrosis, Hypertension, Diabetes, and Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Side Effect of Medications – certain medications such as those used to treat hypertension, epilepsy, anxiety, asthma, depression, and anxiety have also been known to cause xerostomia. However, in most cases, the dry mouth caused by them is transient and the condition goes away as soon as the medication is discontinued or replaced with another one. As well as causing a dry mouth sometimes these medications can also cause dry eyes.

Is Dry Mouth Dangerous for My Dental Health?

The persistent state of having a dry mouth can be dangerous for your oral health in many ways:

Teeth Cavities – when there is insufficient salivary production or release, the teeth do not benefit from the cleansing action of the saliva. As a result, plaque and tartar deposits form on the teeth and promote the formation of cavities.
Gum and Periodontal Problems – reduced salivary flow can also lead to the development of tooth decay and gum disease which cram progress into the more severe periodontal problems due to the adherence of plaque and tartar deposits.
Increased Chances of Dental Infections – saliva provides a protective and antibacterial action inside the oral cavity. When its production is reduced, the oral cavity becomes more vulnerable to the development of infections.

The first step in treating dry mouth is to talk to your dentist so that the underlying problem can be diagnosed.

Something you might want to try

Anything which stimulates saliva production. Sucking on sugar free sweets or chew sugar free gum.

A dry mouth can often cause a burning sensation due to the saliva glands which don’t work properly. If you can get your mouth wet by stimulating saliva production this may help this uncomfortable sensation.

Generally, dry mouth sensation goes away as soon as the underlying problem is removed. In addition, maintenance of optimal oral hygiene and increasing water intake to minimize the chances of dehydration also help in preventing xerostomia.

Tagged with: Dry mouth
Posted in Dental anxiety

Finding an emergency dentist near me-a guide to urgent dental care

Posted on March 25, 2019 by Dr Philip McDermott

How to find an emergency dentist near me

Finding an emergency dentist in an urgent situation can often be stressful. This guide is to help you understand the difference between a routine dental appointment and dental emergency and to help you find a dentist near you which may be able to help.

There are a range of websites which can help with finding an emergency dentist near you including the NHS Emergency dentists. The best way to ensure you have access to an emergency dentist is to ensure you are registered at a local dental practice at all times, this then makes finding treatment in urgent situations much quicker and easier, however the links above should help you in your search.

What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any time where you:

Are in extreme dental pain.
Have severe dental bleeding.
Have chipped tooth and are in extreme pain.
Have chipped tooth and you have blood coming from the tooth itself (not necessarily around the tooth).
Have sudden and painful swelling in and around your jaw or tooth.

Typically you will not need to see an emergency dentist if:

You have chipped the tooth and there is no severe pain or bleeding.
A dental crown has come loose and you don’t have extreme pain.
You have knocked a tooth and you have been minor bleeding from around the tooth socket. If you have severe bleeding and/or bleeding from the chipped tooth itself then this is an emergency.

If any of the above are true then you should make an appointment with your dentist at the earliest convenience.

Common dental emergencies

Common dental emergencies include things such as:

Severe tooth trauma where a tooth has been avulsed (knocked out).
A dental abscess which appeared suddenly, this can either be on the gum (which you will see) or at the base of the tooth (which you may not see but will definitely feel).
Extreme pain on biting, this can sometimes be linked to a cracked tooth or infection.
Painful inflammation around an individual to.

A good rule of thumb for a dental emergency is:

Is there excessive pain?
Is there excessive blood?

If the answer to either question above is yes, then emergency dental care should usually be sought.

How to manage a dental emergency –

Practical urgent dental care advice

Managing sudden tooth loss

If you have lost tooth by trauma there are a few things to bear in mind:

Stay calm.
Attempt to stop the bleeding by getting the patient to bite down gently on some sterile gauze. Biting down on a used teabag can also help as the tannin in the tea has been shown to help control bleeding.
Ensure the head is tipped forwards so that any excess blood drained out of the mouth and is not swallowed.
If the tooth that has been knocked out this whole pick it up by the Crown (the part of the tooth which you can see).
If the knocked out tooth is whole and you are able to see which way round it goes then gently place it back into the socket if possible.
Place the knocked out tooth into a clean plastic bag and fill with milk if available.
Contact an emergency dentist or take the patient to your local accident and emergency department.

Managing extreme pain

If the dental emergency is due to severe pain then over the counter painkillers may help. You may also find that a cold pack applied on the outside of your cheek around where the pain is can help manage pain if it is localised to one particular area.

Rinsing with warm salt water can also help alleviate dental pain.

Cloves have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties which can help manage sudden tooth pain and gum infections. Soaking a small cotton ball with clove oil and applying to the affected area may help.

How does the dentist treat emergencies?

A dentist will always undertake emergency dental treatment to treat the pain and bleeding first, after this it can move on to restorative treatments, depending upon what the initial problem was.

Tooth loss or extraction can be treated with a dental bridge or dental implant.
Loss of a dental crown can be replaced either with a new crown or have the old crown fitted again.
A dental abscess can be treated with root canal treatments.

Your dentist will also give medication such as antibiotics to treat any infection.

If you’re looking for an emergency dental practice or dentist in Stourbridge then please contact Dr Phil McDermott, your local friendly dentist; details of emergency appointments are always available on the practice answerphone even outside of normal working hours .

[ppm_testimonial]

Tagged with: Emergencies, Emergency dentist near me, Urgent dental care
Posted in Dental health

What happens at the dental hygienist?

Posted on February 18, 2019 by Dr Philip McDermott

what happens at the dental hygienist

So often we hear people ask about hygienist, wondering if it’s really necessary to visit so often, what happens when they do or what would happen if they don’t. We thought it would be a good idea to summarise everything in a single blog post.

What does the dentist/hygienist do at a teeth cleaning?

A tooth cleaning appointment is far more then just cleaning your teeth, your dentist or hygienist will also be looking at:

Where plaque or stain has gathered on your teeth, and this can give an indication of your tooth brushing and cleaning habits.
Early warning signs of oral cancer.
Problems with the way the teeth wear which could indicate problems with the muscles of your head, face and neck.
Early warning signs of gum disease and other dental diseases.

Practically what will happen at the hygiene appointment is as follows:

Each tooth will be assessed for its cleanliness, this is typically mark on the scale BPE (Basic periodontal examination), This rates quadrants in your mouth (upper left, right, lower left, lower right) on a scale from 0-4. Zero is the best and 4 is the worst.
This BPE chart will then be compared to your previous appointment to see how you are progressing.
An ultrasonic scaling will then be undertaken to remove hardened plaque around each tooth.
In between the teeth and instrument will then be used to scrape away excess plaque.
This scraping may need to continue below the gum level if the plaque buildup is particularly bad.
The space and cleaning ability will then be checked between each tooth with dental floss.
Each tooth will then be polished to ensure the minimum amount of plaque adheres to it.
You will then be given any further oral health advice to prevent further buildup of plaque and tartar.

How long should a typical dental cleaning to take?

A typical dental hygiene/dental cleaning appointment will take approximately 40 min if it is done properly and the above protocol is adhered to. It simply isn’t possible to do a full dental hygiene treatment in 10 min!

How painful is dental cleaning?

Scaling and polishing can sometimes be a little uncomfortable, particularly as it moves down towards the gum margin. It is quite normal for a small amount of bleeding to occur during the treatment however most people describe this as uncomfortable rather than painful.

If your hygienist is removing plaque below the gum line then this could be more painful, you will then be given a local anaesthetic to ensure it is completely pain-free.

Does repeated scaling damage our teeth?

Your teeth are extremely hard, in fact the dental enamel is the hardest substance in human body. Repeated scaling would only damage your teeth if it was done every day, typically you would only see a dental hygienist for professional cleaning twice per year meaning that dental scaling when it’s done by professionals does not damage your teeth.

Can visits to dental hygienists damage gums?

Visits to the dental hygienist would not damage or gums because they will be working to extremely high standards following extensive training. A hygienist will also be registered with the General Dental Council (GDC) who monitor and regulate the dental health profession. You may find that after a routine hygiene appointment that your gums are more sensitive and have bled during the treatment, this is quite normal and they will heal very quickly.

If your teeth be regularly during cleaning then this is an indicator that you should see a hygienist.

However, if you prod around with an instrument in your own mouth during brushing and flossing and cause your teeth to be then this could damage your gums.

Is it necessary to have a hygienist for your teeth?

We believe that yes, it is necessary to have a hygienist for your teeth. Even if you have any exemplary dental care plan at home and look after your teeth and gums exceptionally well, you will find that small amounts of tartar will build up between your teeth. This is where bacteria lurk and where dental decay and disease can begin, only a hygienist will be able to remove this for you.

Why is is teeth cleaning so painful?

Cleaning your teeth at home should not be painful, if it is the we recommend visiting your dental surgery to see a member of the dental team as soon as possible. Professional teeth cleaning can be uncomfortable if there is tartar on your teeth below the gum line. Unfortunately this tartar has to be physically removed and the removal process can be uncomfortable. If you find that the teeth cleaning really is extremely painful then let your hygienist know as they may then be able to give you an anaesthetic.

How did people maintain dental hygiene prior to toothpaste?

Prior to having toothpaste people would have maintained their oral hygiene using a wide range of natural ingredients and techniques. Their diet would also have been such that they needed to chew more fibrous food, this would have helped to keep the teeth clean. However, prior to toothpaste the incidence of tooth decay was much higher. You should make sure that your toothpaste contains fluoride, the fluoride helps with the mineralisation of the enamel of your teeth, keeping it hard and able to resist the acid attack from our modern (and rather high sugar content) diet.

Is mouthwash really necessary for good dental hygiene?

It’s a good idea to use mouthwash after every meal. Mouthwash can help to dislodge food stuck in between your teeth, it also contains a low amount of fluoride which means that your teeth will get a small fluoride update throughout the day.

However, we do not recommend using mouthwash directly after cleaning your teeth. Mouthwash typically has less fluoride than toothpaste, so if you use mouthwash after brushing then you will reduce the amount of fluoride in contact with your teeth and therefore your teeth could be more prone to decay.

Tagged with: bleeding gums, dental hygiene, gum disease
Posted in Dental health

7 Ways to Manage Your Dental Fear

Posted on January 28, 2019 by Dr Philip McDermott

Dental fear and phobia can range from mild anxiety (which many people experience) through to a full-blown phobia where even the mention of visiting a dentist can create a reaction.

The trigger for this fear can be widespread, often stemming from childhood or early years and previous experience at the dentist, for some it may be the smell, others the drill, others the needle, some people find a perceived loss of control difficult and for some just the thought of someone touching inside of their mouth is enough to trigger the anxiety.

The first thing we need to say is that dentists are trained to help patients overcome their fears, dentists want to help you maintain a healthy mouth, keep your teeth for life and it is for this reason that we’ve written our 7 top ways to manage your fear.

1. Book an appointment in the morning

This is a very simple yet very effective technique, it will ensure you can relax for the rest of the day as your appointment will be over. It also didn’t give you time to build up the dental anxiety throughout the day I will help you feel less anxious.

2. Make sure you have a good breakfast.

This is only for regular appointments, but a good and healthy breakfast will set you up for the day and ensure that your energy levels remain high. With good quality nutrients in your body your resources remain higher you will be better able to cope with your dental visit.

3. Reduce your alcohol content

Alcohol has three negative effects on you:

Alcohol may seem to improve your mood in the short-term but in the longer term it increases symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Alcohol dehydrates you. This can leave you more prone to blackouts and anxiety leading to more of a bad experience at the dentist.
Visiting the dentist after taking alcohol means you will be less able to communicate with your dentist and less able to take advantage of any other relaxation techniques.

4. Bring a friend

Bringing a friend to your dental treatment can really help, it’s often mentioned that people feel uncomfortable or nervous in the waiting room, bringing a friend with you and deciding beforehand what you will talk about means you are far more likely to be able to relax with your friend taking your mind off things.

5. Be clear about what it is that you are anxious about

If you are clear about why you are avoiding the dentist it can really help, is it a fear of pain? Is it fear of the dental procedures? Is it the needle? You may find it easier to write these things down and bring them with you, you can then hand this list to your dentist, letting them know you are an anxious patient. Your dentist will then have a clear list of things to either avoid or help you overcome.

6. Talk openly to your dentist.

Dental phobia will always be exacerbated with little or no communication. Be honest with us, we will not judge you take you off for not coming in to see us. Your dentist is here to prevent tooth decay and gum disease and look after your dental care. We absolutely understand that the world is full of nervous patients and we’re here to help.

7. Agree a stop signal.

Agreeing a stop signal can really help, it can be simply raising your hand. Let the dentist know that if you raise your hand you would like them immediately to stop and give you a breather. You could even agree that, if it’s convenient, you could be sat up if you raise your hand. Just sitting up for a minute, taking slow breath can really help you to relax.

Other ways to help dental phobia

There are a variety of medical ways to help with dental phobia as well, gas and air is a common option however we prefer to use oral conscious sedation at our practice in Stourbridge. We have found that this simple to take a pill which is taken about half an hour before your appointment can really help you relax. If you decide on this option you would need to ensure that you have a travel companion with you and that you don’t drive after taking the tablets for a few hours.

Tagged with: anxiety, Dental sedation, Fear, Oral sedation, phobia
Posted in Dental anxiety

Adult orthodontics – answers to common questions

Posted on January 15, 2019 by Dr Philip McDermott

With more more people now requesting adult orthodontics we thought it worthwhile putting together a list of some of the most common questions that people ask. We are going to split this article into two sections:

Adult braces and questions about oral health.
General questions about adult braces.

Adult braces and questions about oral health

Is it safe to get braces while having cavities?

Before you begin any form of orthodontic brace treatment you will be required to have an oral health assessment. If you have fixed braces these are typically more difficult to clean than natural teeth so it’s important that your oral health care regime is good prior to having braces fitted.

Because braces can harbour harmful bacteria your teeth can be more prone to cavities, this is especially true if you have cavities before getting braces.

It is pointless having straight teeth if all of them rot due to dental decay and cavities, your dentist will therefore want to ensure that you are cavity free and dentally fit before you begin your orthodontic treatment. Your dentist may choose to use dental sealants prior to providing braces in order to ensure your teeth remain healthy throughout the process.

Can braces cause a tooth to die?

It is highly unlikely that orthodontics will call the tooth to die, there are however side-effects of orthodontics which can involve tooth resorption. In exceptionally extreme circumstances this could theoretically cause a tooth to die. Research conducted In the Dental Press Journal of Orthodontics in 2015 found that 2.9% of orthodontic cases (out of a sample of 959 teeth) presented severe route resorption.

In reality many patients will never know that this has happened and orthodontics proceeds a symptomatically on this front.

What happens if you don’t brush teeth while you have braces?

Regardless of whether you are wearing braces are not, if you don’t brush your teeth you dramatically increase your risk of developing tooth decay. If you have fixed braces then these have more places for the bacteria to lurk, consequently your oral hygiene needs to be better at preventing tooth decay. If you have removable braces, such as Invisalign then these can act in holding bacteria and the food that they feed off against your teeth for long periods of time.

It really is essential that you brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste and have good oral hygiene , particularly if you are wearing braces.

Why do teeth become yellow after wearing braces?

There is no clinical reason why teeth themselves become yellow after wearing braces, however there may be a couple of causes which can easily be rectified.

Small amounts of adhesive left on the tooth. If you have had fixed orthodontics and your specialist orthodontist has left small amounts of adhesive on the tooth after removing fixed braces then this adhesive, if left untreated can yellow. All that is required is to visit the hygienist and have this adhesive removed, your teeth will then be restored to then lovely white colour.

The etch used on your teeth leaves it rough. When you have fixed braces to have your teeth straightened then the orthodontist needs to etch your tooth (rough the surface) in order for the brackets to stick. When the brackets are removed this rough surface needs to be polished, if it isn’t it can pick up staying and look yellow. To remedy this all the dentist needs to do is to polish the teeth and your tooth colour will be restored.

Do I have to brush immediately after eating with braces?

After you eat or drink we recommend you wait 20 min for the tooth enamel to recover from the effects of the bacteria producing acid. If you have fixed braces you should then give your teeth clean ensuring you clean in between the brackets and arch wires using a small brush. If you have removable orthodontics we recommend giving your appliance a quick clean, as well as your teeth, before placing your brace back in again.

General questions about adult braces

Besides getting straight teeth, why do people get braces?

Braces can be used for a whole host of reasons other than straightening crooked teeth, for example:

Modifying the position of the jaw to reduce the effects of snoring and/or sleep apnoea.
Attempting to move teeth into a better position to enable a higher level of oral hygiene to prevent cavities.
Moving teeth into a better functional position to prevent/reduce headaches and jaw joint problems.
Realigning particularly buck teeth which stick out so much that they become dry. This can help to prevent the teeth drying out and cracking and keep them healthy for life.

Is there a cheaper alternative to getting braces?

Generally speaking it depends on your clinical situation. If you have a couple of teeth which are out of line then perhaps dental bonding could work to give the illusion of straightening. Dental veneers can also have the same effect. Bonding only takes an hour or so at the dentist so this can often be the cheapest option for very minor teeth straightening corrections.

Why am I suffering tooth gaps after orthodontic braces?

The first question to ask would be, are you wearing a retainer? Unfortunately your teeth will have a tendency to want to return to their previous positions, the way to prevent this is to wear a retainer for at least one year after your orthodontic treatment ends. Some orthodontists will fit a permanent retainer on the inside of your teeth to maintain the new tooth position. Some retainers are made from a clear plastic which you wear for 12 hours per day at night.

How effective is orthodontics in grown ups?

Orthodontics on grown-ups (adults is extremely effective). Orthodontics only used to be done on children because it was only children that would put up with wearing the metal or train track braces. However, nowadays with cosmetic braces such as tooth coloured brackets, clear braces or lingual braces (orthodontics on the inside of your teeth) adults are becoming more accepting of having orthodontic treatments.

The only time when child orthodontics is more effective than adult orthodontics is if the orthodontic treatment necessitates changing the shape of the jaw. If this type of orthognathic orthodontics is required then it can only be done as the child grows and their jaw develops, clearly this has already happened in an adult so we cannot utilise this growing and developing process.

Tagged with: dental hygiene, gum disease, Orthodontic
Posted in Dental health, Straightening crooked teeth

10 Answers to Common Questions about Wisdom Teeth

Posted on November 26, 2018 by Dr Philip McDermott

Is it safe to get the wisdom tooth removed?

Wisdom tooth removal is only complex when it is a surgical procedure. If wisdom teeth have not yet fully erupted and are buried under the gums at the back of the mouth then this is usually performed surgically by a specialist dentist or oral surgeon. If a wisdom tooth has erupted normally and is in line with no other complications then removing the wisdom tooth is as safe as removing any other tooth in your mouth.

How to treat a gum infection near my wisdom tooth?

The gum infection near wisdom tooth should be treated the same as any other form of gum infection, and that is to identify the cause. Gum infections go through a series of stages starting off with mild reddening and information of the gums through to bleeding. The infection can then progress to periodontal disease, a more serious form of gum disease where the information encompasses the whole tooth.

The treatment of any form of gum infection at home can be very difficult, the first thing to do would be to look at your oral health care routine to ensure your cleaning your teeth adequately. If the gum infection is at an early stage then cleaning more effectively to remove plaque buildup can help to treat the gum infection. If the infection has moved onto a more serious stage then it may be more difficult to treat at home, this is because the daily plaque has not been removed and has built up into tartar. This tartar adheres to the tooth causing the inflammation around the gum. Only dental professionals will be able to remove this built up layer and treat the gum infection.

How to tell if I have dislodged a wisdom tooth blood clot?

If you have dislodged a wisdom tooth blood clot then you will either see the clot in your mouth and/or the socket will begin to bleed again. If the socket begins to bleed again simply apply a piece of sterile gauze over the area and gently bite down on it, some people like to use an old teabag (the tanic acid in tea has been shown to help to reduce blood flow). If you see the clot in your mouth yet there is no additional bleeding AND this is in the first week after the extraction then you ought to contact your dentist as you may be at risk of developing a dry socket.

A dry socket occurs when the protective blood clot either does not form, is absorbed too early or is dislodged leaving the bone, tissue and nerve endings exposed. This can be extremely painful although thankfully is also extremely rare, occurring in only 5% of people.

Very often a dry socket will become apparent a couple of days after the surgical extraction and symptoms can include extreme pain covering the whole side of your face which is often accompanied by an odour in the mouth.

If you think you may have a dry socket then you should contact your dentist within 24 hours.

What happens if you have a decaying wisdom tooth?

If a wisdom tooth decays it is like any other tooth in your mouth, eventually the decay will eat down to the nerve and become extremely painful. This can result in tooth loss as well as other extremely uncomfortable problems such as access. This is when a fluid filled area built up extreme pressure around the outside of your tooth as a result of an infection.

What is the after care of wisdom teeth removal?

The general guidance after having the wisdom tooth removed is to:

Avoid rinsing or spitting forcibly for at least 24 hours to avoid dislodging any clot.
After this time you can rinse gently with warm water that has had half a teaspoon of salt dissolved into a tumbler.
Take any prescribed painkillers at the intervals given to you by your dentist. Any general pain or discomfort should easily be kept under control with these.
Use an ice bag immediately after the procedure to help keep the swelling down.
Do not smoke as this can inhibit your body’s natural healing process.
Keep your head slightly elevated when you lay down, this can help to control any slight bleeding.
Continue your regular oral health care routine on your other teeth, but do not rinse with mouthwash for at least 24 hours.

What is the medical term for wisdom teeth removal?

When you have any impacted wisdom tooth removed it is considered minor oral surgery ( MOS), tooth extraction is known scientifically as EXODONTIA.

Can I keep slightly impacted wisdom teeth?

Deciding if you want to remove wisdom teeth can be quite difficult. The problem with an impacted wisdom tooth is the way it affects the tooth in front. Impacted wisdom teeth usually lay flat in the mouth facing forwards, the have a tendency to drift towards the front of the mouth and can push each tooth. The result is that your teeth can move over time becoming more and more crowded and crooked, this can then affect the way your teeth bite together.

Sometimes the wisdom teeth partially erupt. If that partial eruption is in a vertical manner, in other words in the correct place then it should cause no problem at all. If however the tooth is partially erupted and impacted then it can be very difficult to clean around the tooth and a permanent tooth pocket may sue, this can then lead to further problems.

When can I drink out a straw after a wisdom tooth extraction?

drinking out of a straw has a tendency to squirt the liquid directly onto the tooth socket. This can dislodge any plot causing a dry socket as previously discussed. You should avoid drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours after your extraction.

Can wisdom teeth become loose?

Disease and decay are what cause teeth to become loose. More specifically teeth become loose if there is gingivitis and periodontitis around said tooth. Wisdom teeth are not immune to this and can also become loose if they are not looked after properly.

Can you get dry socket with stitches? How can it be prevented?

It is still possible to get a dry socket with stitches although it is less as the stitches close the wound making it less likely for the clot to dislodge. However Sometimes the body can still absorbed plot to quickly and dry socket can form underneath. If you notice any of the symptoms of a dry socket including extreme pain or a particularly bad odour then you should visit your dentist immediately.

To prevent a dry socket you should keep yourself well hydrated but be careful not to rinse the water around in your mouth too much. If you smoke you should also stop smoking as this can exacerbate dry socket formation. You should also avoid raising your heartbeat too much immediately after an extraction, this raised heart rate and blood pressure can also dislodge clots. If you engage in any contact sports which involve disruption to your mouth you should also avoid these immediately after having a tooth extracted.

Tagged with: Dry socket, Extraction, Periodontal disease, Wisdom tooth
Posted in Dental health

Thinking of Travelling Abroad for Dental Implants?

Posted on September 17, 2018 by Dr Philip McDermott

With the attractive price that is often promoted by overseas dental practices it’s no wonder many people are tempted to travel abroad for dental implants and other forms of treatment. However, before you commit to this it’s important that you are fully aware of what to expect and what risks may be involved. The General Dental Council have put together a series of guidelines for people thinking of travelling abroad for their dental treatments.

Some of the questions you may want to ask are:

Who will be carrying out my treatment and what qualifications do they have?
Will the dental team speak English? If not, will you provide a translator on the day of the procedure?
Do you have any references or testimonials from previous patients?
How many times have you carried out the procedure I am having? What are the rates of success, complication,
readmission and infection?
Are you regulated by a professional body and do you have to be registered with them?
Is the work guaranteed for a certain period of time?
What aftercare do you provide?
What happens if I am unhappy with the results? Who pays for the extra flights, hotel and remedial work?
If there are complications and I need further treatment, is this included in the initial cost?
Do you have insurance to cover this procedure?
Do you have a complaints system in place? Can I see a copy of it?
Who can I contact for advice after the treatment?

Travelling abroad for dental implants can be relatively risky compared with seeing a dentist in the UK. Dental implants often require a lengthy stage of preplanning and post placement care, this can become very difficult if you have to travel abroad to see the dentist each time.

Whilst implants have a very high success rate they can occasionally be problems, again, this is much easier to remedy if the implants are placed in the United Kingdom.

How much are dental implants abroad

We’ve looked at the prices of dental implants abroad from a few different countries including the most popular ones Spain, Poland, India & Turkey. Implants seem to be around £500 per implant, when compared to the cost of dental implant in the UK this can often seen extremely cheap.

We would however suggest you exercise extreme caution, one of the factors which affect the cost of the implant is the dental implant components themselves. There are well known and established dental implant component manufacturers such as Straumann, NobelBiocare and ITI to name just a few. The amount of research and historical product development that has gone into these implants is extensive and this comes with a cost.

Dental implants are manufactured to extreme tolerances of fractions of a millimetre, whilst it is possible to mimic the recognised brands above, it’s not possible to do this making them cheaper and maintaining the quality.

Many dental implant systems abroad use unrecognised or copy implant systems, this can mean that when you come back to UK if there is any problem that the dentist in the UK may not be able to help at all with any form of treatment on the dental implant.

If these copy system companies have also gone out of business then it can make replacing the implant or indeed general maintenance virtually impossible.

Our advice is always to stick with recognised implant companies and ensure you have certificates to prove that the dental implant components used are genuine.

Is it safe to have dental implants abroad

One of the ways you may be able to judge this is to compare dental treatments abroad with those undertaken in the UK, particularly the regulatory framework in UK. UK dentists must comply with and/or are regulated by:

Decontamination in primary care dental practices (HTM 0105) – This is a health technical memorandum and audit tool to help with decontaminating reusable instruments in primary care dental practices.
The Care Quality Commission – The independent regulator of health and social care in England.
1. Treating people with respect and involving them in their care.
2. Providing care, treatment and support the needs people needs.
3. Caring for people safely and protecting them from harm.
4. Staffing.
5. Quality and suitability of management.
The General Dental Council – The GDC regulates dental professionals in the UK, maintaining standards for the benefit of patients. The GDC will investigate any complaints made to them about dental professionals in the UK.

This all means that your safety in the UK has a considerable amount of backing, support and regulation… You are strongly advised to check the same is true from any dental treatment you choose to have abroad.

Tagged with: cost, dental implant information, Travelling abroad
Posted in Replacing Missing Teeth