Pola Light Teeth Whitening

At CK Dental, we know how important a bright, white smile is to our patients. When you aren’t happy with your teeth, it can have a significant impact on your confidence.

For a limited time only, we are offering the Pola Light Teeth Whitening kit at a discounted price. Helping you to achieve a brighter, more confident smile in just five days, this fantastic kit can be used in the comfort of your own home.

Discover more about this revolutionary kit and our limited time offer below…

What is Pola Light Teeth Whitening?

Pola Light teeth whitening is a new, at-home, advanced tooth whitening system that uses LED light technology. Combining an LED mouthpiece and the award-winning Pola whitening system, it is fast, comfortable, and easy to use.

The treatment takes just five days and is either applied for 10 or 15 minutes twice a day. It has been formulated to gently remove tough stains while minimising sensitivity with added hydration.

Each Pola Light teeth whitening kit includes:

  • 1x Pola LED mouthpiece
  • 4x Pola Day tooth whitening syringes 3g, 6% hydrogen peroxide
  • 1x Instruction guide
  • 1x USB charging cord

Simply charge the mouthpiece and wear it for 10-15 minutes at a time, as instructed. There are no cords on the mouthpiece, making it easy and comfortable to wear.

What are the benefits?

This revolutionary new whitening system delivers excellent benefits for patients. There are no follow up appointments to attend, though you will need to undergo an initial assessment to determine your suitability for the treatment.

The fact it works in just five days is another huge bonus. In as little as 20 minutes a day, you could end up with bright, white, healthy-looking teeth.

Many tooth whitening kits can leave the teeth feeling sensitive, especially right after the treatment. However, thanks to its added hydration and gentle formula, Pola Light tooth whitening helps to ease sensitivity.

As an at-home treatment, it is also a lot more convenient than other kits. Additionally, as one of the most advanced tooth whitening systems on the market, patients can enjoy excellent, professional looking results.

Claiming your discounted Pola Light Teeth Whitening kit

Want to try out this new effective system? CK Dental is giving away 10x Pola Light teeth whitening kits at a discounted rate of just £195. The treatment usually costs around £250.

This promotion can be claimed by registered and non-registered patients, and it runs until 30 November, 2023. You must be 18 or over to take up the offer, and it is important to note that it will not change the colour of crowns or fillings.

To take advantage of this fantastic teeth whitening offer and to book your first consultation, call our friendly reception team on 0117 472 1600. For terms and conditions please visit our website here – https://ckdental.co.uk/offers-and-promotions/

dental hygienist visit

October is Dental Hygiene Month! This is the perfect time to remember the importance of taking care of your dental hygiene. With the right approach and routine, you can improve your oral health, as well as achieving a brighter, more confident smile.

To celebrate, we are currently offering two dental hygienist appointments for the price of one!

Here, we’ll share some tips on how to keep your smile healthy and sparkling bright. Plus, find out more about our limited time offer.

How to maintain good dental hygiene

To keep your teeth and gums healthy, there are some basic tips that will ensure your teeth are kept in the best possible condition between your hygienist appointments. These are as follows:

Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste

Brushing your teeth twice a day, for approximately 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste is the best first step to ensure good dental hygiene. By regularly removing the plaque that builds up on the teeth, you can help prevent gum disease. This can lead to tooth loss, or more serious health issues if left untreated.

Floss your teeth

Flossing your teeth before brushing is an effective way to remove food debris and bacteria from hard to reach gaps between the teeth. There is research showing that interdental brushes can be more effective at plaque removal than floss. Of course, your dental hygienist can check your flossing technique or can make recommendations for interdental brushes if required.

Reduce your sugar intake

By reducing your sugar intake, you can protect the enamel on your teeth from eroding, leading to tooth decay. Avoid fizzy drinks and sweets, and choose healthy snack options.

Visit your dentist

Keeping on top of your routine dental appointments will help to keep your teeth in the best condition while detecting any issues early on. With regular dental hygienist appointments, we can remove any plaque debris, and give you tips for maintaining your teeth and gum health.

Claim your free dental hygienist visit

To celebrate Dental Hygiene Month, CK Dental is running a special October promotion. When you book one dental hygienist visit, you can claim a second appointment totally free of charge! This is open to new or existing patients, and there is even the option to ‘gift’ your free second treatment to a friend or family member.

This promotion can be claimed by both new and existing patients, and it runs until 31st October 2023. You must be 18 or over to take up the offer, and you will need to make both bookings together.

To take advantage of this fantastic offer and to book your hygienist appointments, call our friendly reception team on 0117 472 1600. For terms and conditions please visit our website here – ckdental.co.uk/offers-and-promotions/

Dental Treatment Coordinator

This month, as the Autumn term begins, we warmly welcome new Dental Treatment Coordinator/ Nurse, Becky Taylor to our Clifton team. Becky is a very experienced Dental Nurse, having worked in both private and NHS sector dental practices for just over 2 decades.

Originally from Bristol and now living in Whitchurch with two children, Becky enjoys travelling around the UK and abroad, as well as baking and cooking.

Skilled in dental implant procedures

Becky completed her Dental Nurse qualification in 2010 at Bristol Dental Hospital whilst working for the NHS. After 14 years in the public sector, she went on to gain valuable experience in a private dental practice at Longwell Green Dental and Implant Clinic, where she has worked for seven years.

In the last two years, Becky has been Head Nurse at Longwell, where she has already been working alongside CK Dental’s Principal Dentist, Cornelius and assisting him with complex dental implant placements.

“I completed a radiography course in 2021 that allows me to take X-rays on patients. During the course, Dr Krause observed me assisting with dental implant patients during surgery. This will also allow me to operate the scanning machines at CK Dental.”

Helping patients with dental anxiety

Becky is not only looking forward to joining the rest of the team at 1 West Mall, but also meeting patients and helping put them at ease at their dental appointments.

“I really enjoy all aspects of patient care, but in particular helping nervous patients through an anxious time at the dentist,” she said.

You can find out more about Becky, as well as the rest of the CK Dental team on our Team page.

If you would like to book an appointment at our Clifton dental practice, please call us on 0117 472 1600.

 

Composite bonding

If you’re looking to improve your smile, composite bonding might be the solution you’re looking for.

This modern dental procedure is known for being minimally invasive, making it a popular choice for correcting chipped, discoloured, or irregularly shaped teeth. Using a material that bonds to your existing teeth, and is precisely colour-matched, composite bonding can provide a natural-looking transformation.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most frequently asked questions about composite bonding. This can help you determine whether it’s the right treatment to improve your smile.

What is Composite Bonding?

Composite bonding is a cutting-edge cosmetic dental technique. It is a quick, efficient, and pain-free solution for those wanting to improve their smile. Using a specially formulated composite resin, which is colour-matched to your own teeth, composite bonding addresses issues like damage, misalignment, or discolouration.

The beauty of this treatment is that it doesn’t involve any drilling, making it a good option for nervous patients. However, for those with sensitive teeth or who require it, there are options of sedation or general anaesthesia if needed.

What Are the Pros and Cons?

Like any treatment, composite bonding comes with pros and cons that need to be considered. The pros include:

  • A cost-effective alternative to veneers
  • It spares more of your natural tooth during application
  • Many patients complete the treatment in just one dental visit
  • It is a generally painless procedure

The cons to consider include:

  • The lifespan of composite bonds isn’t as long as some other treatments
  • The treated area may be at a higher risk of chipping or becoming damaged
  • They may not be as stain resistant as other materials

It’s crucial to weigh up the pros and cons of the treatment before deciding if it’s the right option for you.

How is it Performed?

The composite bonding process begins with a consultation, where your dentist will discuss your specific needs and desired outcomes. The primary goal is to ensure the results look as natural as possible. To achieve this, your dentist will carefully match the colour of the composite material to your existing teeth.

After numbing the area if needed, the tooth is cleaned meticulously to ensure optimal bonding. The malleable resin is then strategically applied, shaped, and sculpted to perfection.

The finishing touch involves exposing the resin to a unique curing light, causing it to harden and set firmly in place. This process, while meticulous, is swift – usually taking anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour for a single tooth.

Is Composite Bonding Permanent?

Composite bonding is a fantastic solution for those looking to improve their smile, but it’s worth noting that it doesn’t boast the same permanency as veneers. Typically, composite bonds have a longevity of up to 10 years, although this can vary based on personal habits and how you maintain them.

If your composite bonds do stain or suffer signs of wear, they can be repaired with ease. The key to prolonging their lifespan is to attend regular dental hygiene appointments. Not only will these visits keep your bonds looking impeccable, but they also play a pivotal role in overall oral health.

Want to learn more about composite bonding and whether it is the right option for you? Schedule an appointment with one of our friendly and experienced dentists today.

Dental Receptionist

Early next month, we are excited to announce that Lucy will be joining our growing family dental practice. It is likely that Lucy will be the first friendly face that you see when you come into our relaxing reception area at 1 West Mall, as she will be our new dental receptionist!

Previously, Lucy worked with Cornelius and Sheryl at the Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital. A self-proclaimed natural organiser and people-person, Lucy has spent her life working in customer-facing roles and is looking forward to this new chapter. “I am looking forward to going above and beyond to deliver an excellent customer experience,” she says.

At CK Dental, we believe in helping people that have a fear of the dentist. And with bags of experience, Lucy will certainly help put any nervous patients at ease when they step into our calm and relaxed reception area.

“I know the importance of putting patients first and providing them with the best customer service possible.”

“I enjoy interacting with people and helping to make them feel content about visiting the dentist instead of feeling nervous,” she adds.

Bristol-born, Lucy has now settled in Clevedon and has a passion for the outdoors and being active. When not looking after her young granddaughter, she enjoys local rambles with friends and recently took up tennis again.

You can find out more about Lucy, as well as the rest of the CK Dental team on our Team page (here).

Book an appointment with our friendly team by calling 0117 472 1600 or email enquiries@ckdental.co.uk .

dental tourism

According to a recent survey conducted by the British Dental Association (BDA), more people than ever before are heading abroad for dental treatment. Worryingly, this has led to a significant increase in the number of patients seeking emergency dental work in the UK.

Choosing to undergo dental procedures abroad comes with many risks. Here, we look at the dangers of dental tourism and why it is advisable to stay closer to home.

What Are the Dangers of Going Abroad for Dental Treatment?

Going abroad for dental treatment might seem tempting, especially with the cheaper costs. However, many patients who choose to have dental care abroad often end up dealing with nasty complications afterward. The recent survey carried out by the BDA revealed some sobering statistics about the risks involved with dental tourism. Here’s some of the main reasons you should be cautious of undergoing dental work abroad according to the latest survey:

Poor Treatment: Many UK dentists reported treating patients who had problems with their dental work done abroad. Issues included treatment that didn’t work, pain, and poorly done procedures.

Expensive Fixes: Fixing the problems experienced back home can cost significantly more than it would have done to just have the work carried out in the UK. Some patients had to spend over £1000, and in extreme cases, even more than £5000 to fix the damage caused abroad.

Questionable Quality and Follow-up: When you get treatment abroad, it might not be easy to go back for follow-ups or complain if something goes wrong.

Communication Issues: Sometimes there’s a communication issue between the patient and the foreign dentist, which can affect the quality of care.

Popularity Driven by social media: Many people are swayed by social media promotions showing ‘perfect’ smiles and shorter waiting times. But remember, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Always think carefully and research thoroughly before deciding to have dental work done in another country. The cheaper cost might end up costing you much more in the long run.

Beware of Turkey Veneers

Heading to Turkey for that picture-perfect smile? You might want to reconsider. Turkey veneers have become a popular procedure to achieve a perfect smile. However, many are unaware of what the procedure involves, and the risks of getting it done in Turkey. In some cases, patients have ended up having the nerves of their teeth removed and replaced with crowns without their consent or knowledge. Some patients have experienced severe pain and infections and are now paying for a lifetime of maintenance for their teeth due to these ill-advised procedures.

Usually, people opt for veneers to enhance the look of their natural teeth. They act like a cover and are less invasive than crowns. However, they still require part of the natural tooth enamel to be filed down. Once done, it’s not reversible, and normally they’ll need replacing after about 15 years.

Simpler Solutions for Fixing Your Teeth

If you’re looking to achieve that perfect smile without invasive procedures, there’s a simpler, more natural way to straighten crooked teeth or close those annoying gaps.

Invisalign is an effective, affordable teeth straightening procedure. It consists of clear, custom-made aligners that fit snugly over your teeth. They gently and gradually move your teeth into the desired position. The fact they are almost invisible is a major benefit for those who are embarrassed to wear traditional braces.

If you have veneers fitted, you’re signing up for replacements every 10-15 years. Invisalign lets you keep your own teeth and straightens them safely and naturally. You can also opt for a safe whitening treatment after, to show off your new confident smile.

So, if you want that perfect smile and a simpler, smarter solution, Invisalign might just be the perfect fit. It’s much cheaper and safer than heading abroad for veneers. Book a consultation with one of our expert dentists to see whether Invisalign could be an ideal treatment for you.

Waiting for dental treatment

A dental emergency can happen when you least expect it. Issues like severe dental pain, a knocked out tooth, bleeding from the mouth, a severely cracked tooth or an abscess are normally classed as a dental emergency and will require treatment as soon as possible.

However, there are dental problems that may not be classed as an emergency but that could cause wider health issues if not treated in a timely way. Issues like toothache, tenderness in the mouth, cheeks or gums, dental cavities or a missing filling or dislodged crown should be checked with your dentist when they arise.

Here, we look at some of the dangers of delaying dental treatment.

What are the dangers of waiting for dental treatment?

It’s easy to overlook dental treatment, but waiting can have serious repercussions. The British Dental Association recently warned that 1 in 4 adults are going without or delaying dental treatment. This came after the results of a Yougov poll, highlighting rising costs as a prime concern, as well as perceived pain of the treatment.

A minor issue like a cavity might seem common and easy to fix, but don’t let that fool you. Cavities, if ignored, can turn into a severe problem. While getting a filling is quite straightforward, many people underestimate the true danger of untreated cavities.

Think of a cavity as a small hole in a boat. Left unchecked, it allows water to seep in. Similarly, an untreated cavity opens the door to decay, and infection. As time goes on, these issues can escalate, causing greater damage to your oral health.

It’s essential to understand that an untreated cavity isn’t just a minor issue, but it can lead to tooth loss or more significant oral health issues.

Delaying root canal treatment

Root canal treatment becomes necessary when the pulp, which is the soft tissue within your tooth that houses blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue, gets infected. These infections commonly arise from injuries, tooth cracks, or untreated severe cavities.

The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic so you shouldn’t feel any pain. It involves making an opening in the tooth to remove the infected pulp and sealing the tooth to ward off future infections. The critical thing to remember is that the infected pulp won’t heal on its own, and a root canal is necessary to treat it effectively.

Patients sometimes mistake the absence of pain for healing. However, this usually indicates that the nerves inside the tooth have died while the infection persists. If left untreated, this infection can spread to your jaw, brain, blood, and even other parts of your body.

Getting the dental treatment and care you need

Waiting for dental treatment can lead to serious health complications. Rather than risking your health, it’s crucial to address any dental issues you are experiencing promptly. If you have any concerns because you are worried about what the treatment entails and if it will be painful, we can help put your mind at ease.

All of our dentists are highly skilled and will talk through any dental procedures before you go ahead. There are also different pain-relieving options for nervous patients or those with extra sensitive teeth that we can discuss with you. In fact, we are one of the few dentists in the country that can offer treatment under general anaesthesia if needed.

Don’t wait until the pain is unbearable. Call our friendly reception team on 0117 472 1600 to book an appointment with us today and take the first step towards ensuring your oral health.

Associate Dentist Chris

We’d like to introduce our new Associate Dentist, Dr Chris Chucas, who recently joined our growing Bristol team. As well as being a highly skilled dentist, particularly in oral surgery (the removal of teeth), Chris is qualified to do treatments under sedation and is a clinical lecturer at Cardiff Dental School.

Chris qualified from Liverpool in 2012, and has worked in both NHS and private practices in South Wales. During lockdown he was busy handling out of hours emergency clinics. But Chris’s main interest, and finely honed skill, is in oral surgery and sedation.

He is passionate about providing the best experience possible for patients, and sets himself a high standard of care. His focus is mainly to help his patients relax, especially those with dental anxiety.

Chris’s own way of relaxing from a very busy schedule is by embracing a love of ‘all outdoor exercise and sports’.

Here, we find out more about Chris.

Why do you have a special interest in oral surgery and sedation?

“I’ve always loved oral surgery ever since dental school. Initially I started having a lot of internal referrals for oral surgery, which has now expanded to taking referrals across the South West of England. I enjoy the intricacies and get great satisfaction from completing the clinical side.”

“Sedation attracted me because I’m passionate about providing the best experience possible for patients and I’ve seen so many cases where it has made such a big difference. It’s a great option for patients undergoing more complicated treatment or for anxious patients.”

How do you treat anxious patients?

“I always like to understand what is important to, and what concerns people. This is paramount, and it takes getting to know the patient well enough, to understand this well enough, so that tailoring the treatment to the patient is possible.”

“Everyone is different, and so the best way of doing anything can only be achieved by first getting to know the person in front of you. Once this has been established, I will always make sure I answer all the questions people have, as well as discussing the best options for that individual, including whether it’s worth considering options such as sedation.”

What can nervous patients expect at CK Dental?

At CK Dental, a lot of our patients are nervous about their dental treatment, which often stems from childhood experiences. Chris, as well as the rest of our dental team, are all highly skilled at putting patients at ease – explaining their treatment in detail beforehand, and discussing the different options for pain-free treatment. Patients will feel calm from the moment that they walk through the door into our relaxing environment, to the moment they leave.

You can find out more about Chris, as well as the rest of the CK Dental team on our Team page.

If you would like to book an appointment at our Clifton dental practice, please call us on 0117 472 1600.

Bristol Life Magazine

To celebrate National Smile Month, the team recently visited children at Christ Church C of E Primary School in Clifton to talk about the importance of brushing their teeth. We are also featured in this month’s Bristol Life magazine, with a special 50% off new patient offer.

Brushing for Better Health

The ‘Brushing for Better Health’ campaign is run by the Oral Health Foundation and highlights the importance of starting good oral health habits at an early age.

Principal dentist, Cornelius says, “The most important thing you can do to maintain your child’s oral health is to ensure they are brushing their teeth. Ideally, twice a day. Until the age of seven, children should be supervised while brushing their teeth to ensure it is done correctly. They should brush for two minutes.”

“Until the age of seven, children should be supervised while brushing their teeth to ensure it is done correctly. They should brush for two minutes,” he added.

Take advantage of our offer

For advice on how to care for your children’s teeth, or to take advantage of the family discount, book an appointment with our friendly team by calling 0117 472 1600 or email enquiries@ckdental.co.uk .

More details about our special National Smile Month 50% discount offer can be found here – https://ckdental.co.uk/offers-and-promotions/

Children’s Teeth

A recent study has revealed the alarming toll the cost-of-living crisis is having on children’s dental health. Parents are struggling to provide essential oral hygiene items. And teachers have been distributing toothpaste and toothbrushes in the fight against tooth decay.

In today’s blog we look at the current crisis facing children’s dental health and share some of our top tips for looking after your child’s teeth.

More children with poor oral hygiene

The recent study into children’s dental health was conducted by the British Dental Association (BDA) and Beauty Banks, a charity focused on hygiene poverty. It revealed 81% of secondary school teachers reported some of their students didn’t have access to basic items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste. This unfortunate reality has led to social exclusion for 41% of these children due to their poor dental hygiene.

A staggering 75% of teachers noted that the unavailability of toothpaste and toothbrushes has resulted in students exhibiting discoloured teeth and visible tooth decay. Additionally, nearly one-third had observed students experiencing dental pain or bad breath. Instances of bullying related to signs of inadequate oral hygiene have reached an all-time high.

The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health recently cautioned that toothbrushes are becoming an unaffordable luxury item for some families.

Reduced access to routine dental treatment during lockdown has also contributed to a decline in children’s oral health. Now, tooth decay surpasses acute tonsillitis as the leading cause of hospital admissions among young children.

Tips for looking after your children’s teeth

The most important thing you can do to maintain your child’s oral health is to ensure they are brushing their teeth. Ideally, twice a day. A fluoride toothpaste can be purchased for less than £1 if you choose an own-brand. Toothbrushes can also be picked up for £1, lasting around three months.

Until the age of seven, children should be supervised while brushing their teeth to ensure it is done correctly. They should brush for two minutes, but not too soon after eating or drinking. The sugars in food soften the enamel on the teeth – so try to leave a good half hour before tooth brushing.

Maintaining dentists’ appointments is also crucial to help identify and treat any signs of tooth decay. However, many parents are struggling to get an appointment on the NHS due to the current dentistry crisis.

If you are struggling to look after your children’s teeth due to the cost-of-living crisis, help is available. Food banks, NHS Trusts, and many schools are offering free toothpaste and toothbrushes to those who need them. Supplied by Beauty Banks, oral hygiene items are now one of the most requested items for families.

Keeping your children’s teeth protected with CK Dental

For more detailed advice on how to care for your children’s teeth, book an appointment with one of our friendly dentists today. We offer an affordable and gentle family dentistry service, providing complete care for you and your little ones. For children over 6 years of age, the cost is £30, while for children under the age of 6 it is £15.