Category “Braces”

Retainers Explained For Patients In Chiswick

November 22nd, 2012

After the removal of braces there is nothing more important to the patient than maintaining that wonderful new smile. Through the course of treatment that may have taken years, an orthodontic patient develops a galvanised determination to protect what braces have managed to achieve. Unfortunately, teeth have a tendency to slowly move after the removal of a brace. At Sparkle we offer a range of retainers to keep that smile wonderful.

What is a retainer?

There are two kinds of retainer, removal and fixed. They perform the exact same function by stopping the movement of the teeth and keeping them in the exact same position that the brace left them in. There are many variations of retainer, made of many different materials and perform the same function in different ways.

Removable retainers

Removable retainers are made from either wire and hard plastic, called the Hawley retainer, are made of just hard plastic which is called the Essix retainer. These can be made for the lower or upper teeth. The upper retainer fits into the roof of the mouth and like the lower retainer, can be removed for cleaning the teeth and eating amongst other things. Sparkle Dental Boutique near Chiswick will advise which is the best retainer for each patient’s lifestyle.

Fixed retainers

Fixed retainers are made of wire and are cemented to the back of the teeth. This type of retainer can be fitted to lower or upper teeth and provides a discreet, effective treatment that ensures the smile that has been worked so hard for will last a lifetime. There could be nothing worse from a orthodontic point of view that allowing teeth to regress and return towards their original positions.

 

 

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Braces | No Comments »

Patients Near Chiswick Light Up The Room Like The Illuminations

October 22nd, 2012

The value of having that perfect smile should not be underestimated. Shying away from your smile could affect your quality of life and as far back as 400BC, people have been looking for solutions to imperfections; metal bands have been reportedly found wrapped around the teeth on ancient mummified bodies! So it’s completely normal to want to improve your smile, and if you feel like switching on a dazzling smile today, consult Sparkle Dental Boutique near Chiswick about ceramic braces.

How do Ceramic Braces Differ?

Most people, when thinking about getting braces, will immediately envision themselves with a mouth full of unsightly metal and instantly choose not to go down that path. However, ceramic braces offer a brilliant alternative to these ‘train tracks’. The ceramic used is translucent and the braces are designed to blend in with a patient’s teeth. The ties used are also barely noticeable, often made of clear elastic or white metal. The overall result is a brace just as powerful as conventional braces, but far more discreet that allows the patient to be bold with their smile and no longer shy away. This option is very popular with both adults and teenagers, and could be exactly what you need to light up your life.

Pain, Cost and Other Worries

In this modern day, treatments are becoming more and more affordable and due to improvements in technology and equipment, they are also becoming more and more bearable. As with normal braces, some slight discomfort may be felt depending on the severity of the imperfection that needs correcting, but as most customers of ceramic braces will tell you, some slight discomfort is a small price to pay for a life-changing treatment. And the cost? That’s a small price to pay as well.

 

 

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Braces | No Comments »

How Do Interceptive Braces Work For Patients Near Acton?

October 18th, 2012

It used to be believed that orthodontists would only begin studying a patient’s teeth when they reach their early teenage years, or as soon as all the milk teeth were gone and the adult teeth fully erupted. Now, it is common for children to be checked by orthodontists from the age of seven. By doing this, early warning signs can be spotted and treated to prevent any further damage occurring later in life. This way, treatment may not be necessary by the time the patient becomes a teenager as the natural alignment of the teeth and jaw has been altered. This is known as ‘interceptive orthodontics’.

What can be prevented?

  • A lot of young children are prone to crowding of the teeth when their jaws are still small and not fully developed. Interceptive orthodontics can easily adjust the jaw at this age allowing teeth to erupt and extrude easily. There are many appliances that can be used to adjust the shape and size of the jaw.
  • Similar work on the jaw can also prevent problems with the child’s bite that may cause pain and discomfort if allowed to continue development into later life.
  • As teeth do not all come through at the same time, there may be gaps where milk teeth have been that new teeth may start to ‘invade’ that space by drifting and rotating towards it. For this, a ‘space maintainer’ can be used to temporarily fill the gap, causing the adjacent teeth to stay straight.

If you want to feel safe and secure in the knowledge that your children’s teeth are growing healthy and regular, contact Sparkle Dental Boutique near Acton and arrange an appointment to get them checked. Remember; minor adjustments at a young age can prevent serious problems later in life!

 

 

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Braces | No Comments »

Metal Braces with A Modern Twist For Patients Near Kew

October 15th, 2012

Metal braces might not sound too appealing to the majority of people. However, with ever-growing advances in technology and design, they need not be the feared treatment they are. In fact, metal braces still offer some of the best quality results in a range of orthodontic problems, so it might be worth looking into the option before dismissing it. Many happy customers will tell you that you won’t regret it!

The Latest Developments

Technology behind cosmetic dentistry is allowing braces to be smaller and smaller as the years go by, whilst still maintaining the strength and stability required to create that Hollywood smile. A refined size makes the modern metal braces less bulky on the surface of the teeth. The wires that hold the braces together can also be modified, with various colours being available. So why not customise your braces with bold colours or reduce the visibility of wires with clear translucent options?

The Benefits of Metal Braces

Though there are many options on the market for altering tooth structure, including near-invisible aligners, these will not suffice for more serious problems such as a misaligned bite or severely crooked teeth. Metal braces offer a guaranteed solution to these problems, so even the most crooked smile can eventually be the envy of all other smiles. So what’s a few months of treatment time compared to a lifetime with a picturesque smile?

Consultations

If you feel metal braces may be the right option for you, consult Sparkle Dental Boutique near Kew who are happy to help and can offer this classic treatment at an affordable rate. Treatment will usually last between six and twenty four months, but that may vary depending on the severity of the problem that needs correcting.

 

 

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Braces | No Comments »

Patients Near Hounslow Celebrate The First Day Of Autumn With Discreet Braces

October 8th, 2012

A New Season, a New Smile

This autumn, why not take control of dental imperfections with the discreet Simpli5 aligners? Call it a mid-year resolution. Simpli5 is a revolutionary alternative to other conventional orthodontic treatments that Sparkle Dental Boutique near Hounslow is pleased to offer patients with minor imperfections in the structure of their teeth, or slight problems with their bite.

The Advantages of Simpli5

There are a number of advantages to opting for Simpli5 over other treatments. What makes them so popular is their discretion; the aligners are near-invisible and very hard to notice, so nobody but you and the dentist need know you’re wearing them! They are also removable so you are free to remove them when brushing your teeth, eating a meal, or attending any social event that you may feel uncomfortable wearing braces at. There is minimum discomfort at a minimum price making these aligners a very popular option.

The Process

If you feel that Simpli5 aligners could be for you, then consult our team at Sparkle Dental Boutique this autumn! The process is very simple and will last no more than just twenty weeks. Here’s how it works:

  • First of all, we will make a mould of your teeth that can then be used to create a realistic 3D model, which can then be used to craft the first aligner, specifically designed for your teeth.
  • The first aligner is worn for up to four weeks depending on the severity of the misalignment. During this time, the aligner will slowly and discreetly adjust the position of the teeth by around half a millimetre.
  • A new mould is then created with the new alignment of the teeth, and a new aligner is then worn for another four weeks. This process is repeated up to five times to correct the imperfections, giving you something to smile about through winter!

 

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Braces | No Comments »

Patients Near Kew Find Out The Benefits Of Metal Braces

September 17th, 2012

Metal braces do not have the best reputation, but they have been around for decades and are a fail-safe treatment for crooked, wonky and misaligned smiles. Metal braces are often berated because they do not look all that attractive, and because they are highly visible when you smile—but they are highly effective and the results are almost always very impressive.

Modern metal braces

Most people still assume the worst when they think of metal braces, but the fact is that braces have come a long way. Modern metal braces are lighter and finer than older styles and you can also choose from a range of colours to make your braces a little funkier.

If you have a complex orthodontic prescription, you may find that some treatments aren’t suitable. Metal braces are suitable for almost all patients because they are able to achieve a great deal of movement, which makes them beneficial for patients with severe crowding and misalignment. Metal braces may not look the best, but they have become much more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing over the last few years, and they produce amazing results and beautifully straight smiles.

Funky styles

Nowadays, patients also have the option of choosing different coloured brackets and wires to make the braces look a bit more fun.

The treatment time depends on the individual and how complex their orthodontic prescription is. Less complex cases may be complete within 12 months, while more complex cases may take up to 24 or 36 months. If you would like more information on metal braces please contact the Sparkle Dental Boutique near Kew for more information.

 

 

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Braces | No Comments »

Patients Near Acton Keep Straight Smiles With Retainers

August 20th, 2012

Nowadays it’s more and more common for people to receive orthodontic treatment to help them get a more uniform-looking smile, and improved functionality of their teeth. One of the more popular forms of treatment is braces. Many different types of braces are now available, from traditional metal braces to removable ‘invisible’ braces, but all work in the same basic way: using gentle force to push your teeth gradually into a different position. However, once treatment with braces has finished, your teeth can often, over time, move back into the position they were in originally. In order to stop this, after treatment with braces, it’s often useful to use a retainer.

So how does a retainer work?


The basic principle behind a retainer is to hold your teeth in their new position. This means that retainers can be as important a part of orthodontic treatment as braces were. Retainers can be used for your top or bottom row or teeth, or both. This means that different types of retainer are available for different treatments.

What different retainers are available?


There are two main types of retainers, removable and fixed, both made from different materials, thanks to new advances in technology.  Removable retainers are used for both upper and lower teeth: the Hawley retainer is made from a combination of wire and hard plastic, while the Essix retainer is made entirely of hard plastic. Fixed retainers can also be used for your upper or lower teeth, and are composed of a wire which is sealed onto the teeth until being removed once your treatment time is over. Specialists at Sparkle Dental Boutique near Acton will be able to fit you with the type of retainer best suited to your needs, and in return you will have a beautiful smile and improved tooth function, which will last a lifetime.

 

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Braces, Knowledge | No Comments »

Patients Near Ealing Learn All About Ceramic Braces

August 6th, 2012

It’s now not uncommon for people to receive treatment for orthodontic treatment, and the most common treatment is braces, which can fix a range of orthodontic problems effectively. But for many people, the appearance of the braces themselves can be just as embarrassing as the orthodontic problem it’s treating. This is a great reason to choose ceramic braces, which are just as effective as traditional metal braces, and yet are practically invisible.

How do ceramic braces work?

Unlike many other types of braces which are now available, ceramic braces work on the same basic principle as metal braces. Like metal braces, ceramic braces use gentle force to push your teeth into a different position over time, and they achieve this in the same way, using brackets and wires. However, the crucial difference is that ceramic braces are made from a different material from metal braces. The brackets are made from ceramic, which is a strong material which is also white, and so it can not be easily seen against the teeth. Similarly, the archwires are also made from tooth-coloured material. This means that ceramic braces largely work in the same way as metal braces, and yet are nowhere near as visible. Ceramic braces are also suitable for more serious orthodontic treatments, unlike some types of ‘invisible braces’ which are only able to help with minor cosmetic problems.

How what happens during treatment?

Ceramic braces are applied to your teeth in much the same way as metal braces, but treatment can be much quicker, taking between twelve and eighteen months on average. While this is longer than some ‘invisible braces’ treatments, ceramic braces provide longer-lasting results, and are suitable for more severe orthodontic issues too. Oral hygiene is of course essential during treatment, not only to keep your teeth looking good, but too ensure the braces themselves do not become damaged or discoloured.  If you would like to find out more about ceramic braces please contact us at Sparkle Dental Boutique near Ealing.

 

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Braces, Orthodontics | No Comments »

Interceptive Braces To Prevent Teenage Tooth Misalignment for Children Near Brentford

July 10th, 2012

Most dental practices are not in the habit of checking a child’s teeth from an early age to spot the signs of misalignment. This means orthodontic problems that could be corrected easily are left to develop, after which they will require more extensive treatment.

At Sparkle Dental Boutique near Brentford however, we carry out orthodontic assessment on children from the age of 7 and use interceptive braces on those who may develop tooth misalignment in the future.

What are the causes of tooth misalignment?

There are a number of reasons for why adult teeth come through crooked, which may include whether the child had a dummy for a prolonged period of time, whether they suffered premature tooth loss or were prone to mouth breathing from a young age. Dental disease can also play their role in the development of the adult teeth and any oral health diseases will needed to be treated first before interceptive braces can be fitted.

At Sparkle Dental Boutique our Specialist Orthodontist has the qualifications and skill to correct children’s tooth misalignment and create straighter smiles, which will improve your child’s oral health and general self-esteem.

What problems can interceptive braces treat?

Interceptive braces can be used to treat a whole range of orthodontic problems, including gaps between teeth, crooked teeth, crowded teeth and general misalignment.

Straightening your child’s teeth now will mean they do not have to undergo orthodontic treatment later on in their adolescent or adults years, which can save them feelings of awkwardness and embarrassment.

If you are interested in interceptive braces for your own child please call the practice today. We are based near Brentford, but also provide treatment for patients throughout London and the UK.

 

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Braces, General, Orthodontics | No Comments »

How Patients Near Ealing can Achieve Straighter Smiles without Wires Using Invisalign

July 3rd, 2012

Brace treatment use to mean two things: Metal wires. Metal brackets. However, that isn’t necessarily the case anymore, with the amazing invisible treatment of Invisalign braces.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a removable clear aligner system, which straightens the teeth gradually using a series of braces. Each clear aligner is worn for two weeks at a time, with the next aligner along differing in shape to encourage the teeth to move.

How does it work?

You start your Invisalign treatment with a consultation to see if Invisalign is the best brace system for you. After this you will have impressions taken of your teeth to use to create your new aligners. You will then return to the dentist to receive your aligners and begin your treatment. Every few weeks you will pay another visit to the practice to make sure that your treatment is going as planned.

How is the treatment suitable for?

Invisalign can be used to treat a whole host of problems, including gaps between the teeth, crooked teeth, twisted teeth and overbitten teeth. In some cases fixed braces may be more appropriate but that will be decided during your initial consultation.

What are the benefits of Invisalign?

Invisalign treatment provides patients with the option to correct their orthodontic problems without the need for anyone else to know and is ideal for anyone who already feels awkward when they smile.

Invisalign are also a great deal easier to clean, as they are removable and so do not hold the food and plaque fixed metal braces do.

If you would like any further information on Invisalign please contact the practice. We are located near Ealing, but treatment patients from London and beyond.

 

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Braces, Invisalign, Orthodontics | No Comments »
« Older Entries

Blog

Contact Us