Archives for April, 2012

Patients from Brentford are dazzled by the magic of The Wand

April 30th, 2012

The Wand is a revolutionary invention for patients who suffer from dental phobia, in particular individuals who are afraid of needles and injections. This is available to patients from Brentford and around London in need of assistance.

Many people experience severe anxiety when they are faced with the prospect of having an injection, and this can cause them to avoid the dentist even if experiencing severe dental pain. The Wand is an amazing innovation that helps patients to combat their fear of a dental visit, by administering anaesthetic without the need for needles or injections.

What is The Wand?

The Wand is a small device, similar to a pen, which is attached to a computer system that controls the flow of anaesthetic. The Wand facilitates an even, slow flow of anaesthetic, which prevents a sudden surge of fluid into a specific area of tissue (this is known as the bee sting effect). The Wand is also advantageous because it prevents feelings of numbness in the cheeks, face and tongue, which can be an unpleasant consequence of having treatment.

Anaesthetic can be administered to areas of the mouth that are generally more difficult to reach, such as the palate, which means more treatment can be done in one go. This results in fewer trips to the dentist and improved continuity of care.

Who can benefit from The Wand?

The Wand is an ideal treatment for anyone who suffers from a phobia of needles or injections. It helps patients to feel comfortable and also eliminates stress and anxiety leading up to the appointment. If you suffer from dental phobia please do not hesitate to talk to our dental team. They can make arrangements to help you feel as comfortable as possible, and options such as The Wand and sedation can be discussed in greater detail.

Patients from Chiswick celebrate William Shakespeare Day at Sparkle Dental Boutique

April 26th, 2012

In Much Ado About Nothing there is a quote that says, “There was never yet philosopher that could endure the toothache patiently.” On a basic level this means that, although philosophers spend a lot of their time engaged in intellectual thought, if they get toothache they’ll still whinge as much as the next person. That’s understandable really – toothache is a real pain for thousands of people, philosophers or otherwise. On William Shakespeare Day, now been and gone, patients needn’t have endured toothache patiently – patients from Chiswick and further afield can visit the dentist for a solution.

Root canal treatment is a procedure that can relieve tooth pain and potentially save your teeth. Each of your teeth has one or more “canals” that run from the root to the tip. These are filled with pulp consisting of nerves and blood vessels. If the tooth enamel decays for any reason, it can leave the sensitive canals exposed and they can become infected. This is a cause of toothache and needs to be assessed by your dentist. The alternative could be losing a tooth.

If you require root canal treatment the procedure begins with your dentist drilling into the tooth to access the infected pulp. Patients will not feel any pain as local anaesthetic will be used. The infected pulp is carefully removed and the dentist will then put an antiseptic solution into the canal to ensure all bacteria is removed. The tooth will then be filled with dental putty to stop bacteria from returning, and a crown will eventually be put on the tooth to seal it.

The whole procedure is relatively simple and completely painless. Some moderate discomfort can be expected when the anaesthetic wears off, but this can be combated with painkillers. The success rate of this procedure is high, but if you have any doubts please speak to our and we will be happy to assist.

Patients from Acton display their smiles with pride at Sparkle Dental Boutique

April 23rd, 2012

Britain doesn’t have the best reputation when it comes to teeth – it’s a bit of a running joke in American film and television that we all have mouths full of discoloured, crooked or even missing teeth; on The Simpsons, for example, the dentist shows Lisa a book of “British Smiles” to scare her into getting a fixed brace.

However, we know better, with cosmetic dentistry increasing in popularity for patients from Acton and throughout the UK.

If you want your teeth whiter there are a range of solutions available, which can be bought over the counter or acquired from your dentist. There are a number of different products that can be custom-made by your dentist and able to be used at home, such as mouth trays of whitening gel.

You can also make your teeth straighter without clogging your smile with lots of metal. There are now a range of discreet and invisible braces available, which can even be removed for special occasions. Even traditional fixed braces can now be made from translucent ceramic to blend in with your teeth.

For replacing missing teeth you have a choice of dentures that are removable, or there are dental implants that can be implanted into the bone of your jaw. Having implants fitted usually takes longer but the results are more permanent. You can now even get All on 4 implants be fitted in a single visit.

To improve the overall appearance of your smile you may also consider porcelain veneers or composite bonding. This type of treatment can make your teeth look longer, shapely and even close gaps between teeth.

With a combination of good oral hygiene and the right dental treatment we can all truly smile about being British.

Patients from Acton celebrate Earth Day at Sparkle Dental Boutique

April 19th, 2012

On Earth Day the 22nd April we celebrate the beauty of the natural world and focus on how we can make a difference to the planet. But can we extend this way of natural, organic thinking to our teeth?

There are many cosmetic treatments out there that can give you the perfect smile, but it is also of importance that teeth still look natural. If not it can seem like your teeth are not your own. At Sparkle Dental Boutique crafting your smile is an art and every treatment is customised to your individual needs.

Braces

Wherever possible it is preferable to work with your natural teeth. There are a range of different braces available to suit the differing preferences of patients from Acton and further afield. These include traditional metal fixed braces, ceramic braces and even discreet, removable braces, which can give you a flawless smile.

Dental implants

If you need any missing teeth replacing the best option for a natural looking smile is dental implants. These are titanium posts implanted into the jaw that secure a custom-made bridge of teeth, which is a permanent solution able to last a lifetime.

Veneers and composite bonding

These treatments can serve a number of purposes, from whitening your teeth to filling gaps, cracks straightening teeth. Veneers are often made of porcelain and fitted over teeth, and they are a very popular way to create a “celebrity smile”. Veneers can subtly improve the colour and shape of your teeth in just two visits.

Composite bonding involves a composite dental solution being adhered to teeth in layers, which uses your natural teeth as a base to make them more smooth and shapely. Composite bonding can repair the damage of cracks, chips and is a cheaper option in comparison to veneers.

Patients from Hounslow enjoy a comfortable experience at Sparkle Dental Boutique

April 16th, 2012

Surveys and polls consistently show that the majority of people suffer varying degrees of worry about a dental visit. Some people have such a severe phobia of going to the dentist that they avoid the place for long periods of time. At Sparkle Dental Boutique patients from Hounslow and neighbouring areas are able to take advantage of ‘boutique’ dentistry, where everything that can be done is done to ensure a comfortable, relaxing experience.

Make yourself at home

At Sparkle Dental Boutique we want you to feel calm and comfortable as soon as you walk through the door. We offer complimentary hot and cold drinks while you wait, as well as a range of sugar-free snacks. We also invite you to make use of the CD library, which is full of albums that are designed to create a relaxing ambience.

Our surgery has been designed to create a warm and cosy atmosphere, while maintaining a stylish and modern air.

Treatment rooms

The crystal, amethyst, diamond and sapphire rooms have stunning décor and are kitted out with all the latest technology to ensure that your time in the chair is as comfortable as possible, and we have state of the art dental chairs to maximise comfort and support.

We also offer aromatherapy candles and oils, blankets and mittens to keep you warm and snug, and luxury bathroom treats and warm towels for you to freshen up after treatment.

Patient-dentist relations

We have a wealth of experience in caring for patients with dental anxiety and dental phobia. It is important to us that you feel comfortable about discussing any worries you may have. Please do not hesitate to talk to our team if you are worried or anxious, as they will always go the extra mile to help you feel comfortable during your time with us.

Patients from Hanwell have nothing to stress about at Sparkle Dental Boutique

April 12th, 2012

It’s stress awareness month and in such economic times this issue has definitely seen a rise. But did you know that stress can lead to a variety of health problems? The issue is often just temporary – a big meeting, a tight deadline, money troubles – but for some stress can manifest more permanently in the form of phobias. Being scared is natural, but phobias involve irrational, debilitating fear that the sufferer often cannot explain.

Many are scared of the dentist, some because of experiences as a child when the tools were bigger, louder and scarier. Dentists are often portrayed in cinema as sadists with a drill, which is obviously far from the truth, but some patients still require reassurance that this is not the case. Dentistry is very flexible nowadays: if you feel afraid you can tell your dentist, and they can make changes. For example, the dentist can talk you through the stages of treatment and will not rush you into anything you are not ready to do.

Some people, however, physically cannot stand the dentist and no amount of reassurance can settle this anxiousness. Also, for patients afraid of needles and injections, receiving anaesthesia can be a painful experience. There are fortunately alternate options available, such as sedation through the use of a pill or laughing gas.

People should not have to compromise the health of their teeth because of fear. If you have even the slightest worry, please tell us and we will be happy to help. Patients from Hanwell and surrounding areas are sure to receive the help they need.

Functional Braces for Patients from Brentford can Make All the Difference to a Smile

April 9th, 2012

Nowadays there are so many choices for orthopaedic braces, from metal to invisible, all aimed at straightening teeth. Also called orthopaedic braces, functional braces are an orthodontic braces treatment with an expected 9 to 12 month treatment period. Functional braces consist of a removable plate with delicate metal wire designed to correct how lower and upper teeth fit or bite together.

How do functional braces work?

Functional braces are custom-made in a dental lab according to your own mouth contours. A dentist takes images of your teeth and gums with accurate measurements for making and fitting your functional braces. Wearing functional braces changes the way your teeth move together by moulding your jawbone growth, mouth soft tissues and facial muscle tone.

What orthodontic conditions are improved through functional braces?

Functional braces at dentists serving patients from Brentford can correctly mould any lower or upper front teeth that are protruding to a normal oral position and can improve the bite of molar teeth. Misaligned upper and lower front teeth may cause facial muscles to functional abnormally affecting facial expression. Functional braces enhance oral-facial function.

Who can be treated with functional braces?

Children with irregular milk teeth still present around age 6 onwards are candidates for functional braces treatment, as are adults. An Orthodontist evaluates a person’s oral-facial function and recommends such treatment where appropriate.

What are the benefits and risks of wearing functional braces?

When first wearing functional braces, the mouth takes about a week to adjust to the appliance and can feel tender during this period. Functional braces may irritate parts of the mouth, like the gums and tongue, and in some cases speech is affected for a while. Usually patients get used to wearing the braces, however, painkillers during the adjustment period may be recommended or orthodontic wax for greater comfort. The benefits of wearing functional braces outweigh this initial discomfort because with such treatment:

  • The teeth are straightened and bite is greatly improved, correcting orthodontic irregularities.
  • A patient experiences better oral, physical and mental health.
  • Facial tone, expression and smile improve in appearance.
  • A greater confidence is experienced.

Patients and children from Hounslow: beware sugar treats this Easter

April 7th, 2012

Easter is often a time when parents, family members and friends love to spoil children with chocolate eggs and all kinds of sweet niceties. As exciting and tasty this can be for kids, the excessive sugar can be harmful to the dental and general health of patients from Hounslow and further afield.

The dangers of excess sugar

We know that too much sugar can harm children’s teeth and, when coupled with poor oral hygiene, result in tartar and plaque build-up.  Dentists and other healthcare professionals often warn of the dangers of too much sugar during dental hygiene visits – yet many still indulge in one too many sweets from time to time, especially when we have an excuse like Easter.

Where possible it is a good idea to choose sugar-free sweet treats. It may not sound like the tastiest option for Easter, but you would be surprised by the selection and good taste of many brands available. Your teeth and gums will no doubt thank you in the long run. Or, if this is not possible, try to curb the amount of chocolate eggs you do eat and maintain good oral hygiene.

Role of dental hygiene

Dental hygiene is aimed at preventing poor oral health and the spread of infection in the mouth and body. Following dental hygiene guidance can help patients experience better health, as can teaching children to learn how to moderate their sugar consumption for healthy living.

Children should also learn oral hygiene basics to maintain their dental, physical and mental health too. These basics include:

  • Following a healthy diet with moderate sugar consumption.
  • Brushing teeth and flossing according to dentistry recommended techniques.
  • Having regular dental hygiene check-ups to prevent the build-up of tartar and plaque.
  • Following a dental care plan for good health and quality of life.

All on 4 at the Dentist is Providing Patients from Acton with Restored Smiles

April 5th, 2012

All on 4 dental implants are different from the implants traditionally used at your dentist. Why is this? Well, as the name suggests, you can fit as many replacement teeth as you need onto just four implants. Traditionally six to ten implants are required to stabilise a dental restorative.

So why is All on 4 better?

Let’s start by talking about dentures. Dentures have evolved a lot in the past few decades, but some people may still find them uncomfortable or restrictive. All on 4 provides you with permanent teeth, which you don’t have to worry about moving around or falling out at the dinner table. You will be able to bite, eat and chew completely normally and after a while you won’t even notice the difference.

You can get a full set of functional teeth in one day. This is even better than traditional implants, which often take several visits and prolonged periods of time waiting for the mouth and gums to heal. All on 4 is available at dentists providing for patients from Acton and it could change their life in just one visit.

There is no need for bone grafting. With traditional implants there is often the need for bone grafting, because each implant (up to ten) needs a stable piece of bone to be anchored to. The All on 4 technique instead takes advantage of the natural layout of your mouth, which it does by placing two implants at the front of your mouth, where the bone is most dense, to use as a stable base. The other implants will be placed at a precise angle to the back of the mouth. This angle allows the teeth at the back of the mouth to be partially supported by the strong bone at the front of the mouth, which gives added stability and peace of mind for you.

All on 4 is less expensive than traditional implants, which is, quite simply, because fewer implants are required. The fact that there is little to no surgery needed also cuts the cost significantly.

Patients from Ealing don’t want missing teeth to make a joke out of their smiles

April 2nd, 2012

April Fool’s Day has been and gone. It’s the one day of the year when we’re allowed to make a mockery out of one another. It’s even encouraged! Everyone expects to be made fun of on this one day of the year, but it can be difficult if you feel like you are the butt of the joke all year round. Even if nobody says anything to you, having missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious. Instead of having a laugh on April Fool’s Day, you might be afraid of smiling altogether.

At Sparkle Dental Boutique patients from Ealing and nearby areas can benefit from a range of services to ensure their smile is not a cause for jokes.

Dentures

Dentures have come a long way in recent times, not at all like the bulky piece of kit we imagine when we hear the word. They are no more functional and comfortable than ever before. Dentures stability is also increased, as is reliability, and you can be sure of peace of mind when you are wearing them.

Dental implants

Dental implants can serve a number of purposes. They can hold dental bridges containing one or more teeth and also be used to secure dentures. The implants are inserted directly into the jaw as a replacement for your natural root structure. This means that they are as stable, functional and reliable as natural teeth, and after a while you’ll forget they’re even there.

All on 4

All on 4 dental implants operate under the same basic concept as traditional dental implants – except that All on 4 requires just four implants. There is very rarely any need for additional treatments that can sometimes go with dental implants. Patients can solve their missing teeth issues in just a single day!

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