Top Three Tips for Preventing Cavities

Preventing Cavities

According to government national statistics, 92% of adults have had dental caries in their permanent teeth. Dental caries, or tooth decay, is caused by poor oral hygiene and eating or drinking too much sugar.

Without regular dental check-ups, tooth decay is left untreated and painful cavities can form. A dentist can repair a cavity, but if cavities are left untreated, they can lead to tooth loss and other health issues.

We firmly believe that prevention is better than cure. Here, we share our top tips for preventing cavities so you can maintain a beautiful smile. And to help you, we have a new patient offer! Read on to find out more.

1. Maintain good oral hygiene

Good oral hygiene is the foundation of cavity prevention. The bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugars left on your teeth, creating acids that can erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities.

Regular brushing and flossing help remove plaque and food particles from the teeth, preventing the build-up of harmful bacteria. We recommend that you:

Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste – brushing twice a day, for approximately 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste is the best first step to ensure good dental hygiene.

Floss daily – Flossing removes food particles and plaque that your toothbrush cannot reach, between the teeth and along the gumline.

Interdental brushes have been shown in studies to be more effective at removing plaque than flossing. Your dental hygienist can give guidance for helping with your daily routine.

2. Visit your dentist regularly

Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for keeping cavities at bay. Dentists can spot early signs of tooth decay and provide treatments like fluoride applications or dental sealants that can prevent cavities from forming. Hygienists also play a crucial role in removing plaque build-up that can lead to cavities or gum disease.

We recommend visiting your dentist and hygienist every six months. Regular visits not only help catch potential issues early but also provide an opportunity for deep cleaning that you can’t achieve at home.

3. Follow good dietary habits

What you eat significantly impacts your dental health. Sugary foods and drinks are major causes of cavities, as the bacteria in your mouth thrive on sugar, producing acids that wear away your enamel.

Opting for healthy snacks like raw vegetables, fruits, and nuts and maintaining a balanced diet will support strong teeth and gums.

Staying hydrated is another important aspect of cavity prevention. Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of plaque build-up. Also, avoiding tobacco products that reduce saliva production helps to protect the teeth against harmful acids.

October offer for new patients

CK Dental is running a special Half Price Offer for all new patients exams in October!

Take advantage of this fantastic offer while slots are available. Book your appointment today by calling our friendly reception team on 0117 472 1600.

For terms and conditions please visit our website – ckdental.co.uk/offers-and-promotions/

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Checking Your Children’s Brushing Habits

Children’s Brushing

Do you supervise your child’s brushing habits? If not, they may be at risk of developing dental caries, or tooth decay, according to a recent study.

Tooth decay is now the leading cause of hospital admissions for children according to The British Dental Association.

Here, we’ll look at what the recent study found, and why developing good brushing habits early in life is essential for good dental health.

Unsupervised teeth brushing linked with oral health issues

A new study published in Cureus on 13 May, found that more than half of participants who had dental caries were not supervised when brushing their teeth as children.

The study surveyed around 150 minority undergraduate students, looking for a link between oral hygiene behaviours and oral health problems.

Approximately 40% of the participants reported untreated dental caries or bleeding gums. Interestingly, 59.3% of the students with dental caries hadn’t been supervised while brushing their teeth as children.

A high consumption of sweets during childhood and inadequate brushing duration were also linked to a higher prevalence of dental issues in adulthood.

Start good brushing habits early

Developing good brushing habits at an early age is important for long-term dental health. Teaching children how to brush their teeth properly and making it a consistent part of their routine can prevent all types of oral health problems later in life.

Last year, some of the team visited reception year children in Bristol as part of a Brush for Better Health campaign, and are planning further visits to help more children with their teeth brushing routine.

Our 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.”

Supervised brushing helps ensure that children are using the right techniques and spending enough time on each area of their mouth. It also provides an opportunity for you to educate them about the importance of oral hygiene and establish a routine that includes regular brushing and flossing.

Regular dental checkups

Regular dental check-ups are important for maintaining good dental health in children. These visits allow dentists to monitor the development of your child’s teeth, identify any potential issues early, and provide professional cleanings that remove plaque and tartar build-up that regular brushing might miss.

By attending these check-ups, you can help prevent the onset of dental problems and ensure that your child’s oral health is on the right track.

For adults that might be concerned about their oral health, with regular dental hygienist appointments, we can remove any plaque debris and give you tips for maintaining your teeth and gum health.

To help maintain good dental hygiene, call our reception team on 0117 472 1600 to schedule an appointment for your family with us today.

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Dental Hygienist Holly Rosen returns to CK Dental

Dental Hygienist

Our new dental hygienist, Holly, is returning to the team, having previously worked with us as a part-time dental nurse. For eight years, Holly ran her own locum nurse agency filling in for holidays and sickness at different dental practices, building up a broad experience. She also gained strong interpersonal skills from working with different teams and patients.

Wanting to develop her skills in helping patients manage their oral health, Holly went on to train to be a dental hygienist Cardiff University, where she recently graduated.

Now, Holly is looking forward to bringing her new dental hygiene skills to Clifton,

“My favourite thing about being a hygienist is meeting lots of new patients and building a rapport with them. The scaling is also super satisfying!”

“I am really looking forward to working with the team at CK Dental again, as they are all so lovely and welcoming.”

You can find out more about Holly and other members of the CK Dental team on our Team page.

To book a dental hygiene appointment, call our friendly reception team on 0117 472 1600.

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What is the Difference Between Skin Boosters and Dermal Fillers?

Skin Boosters and Dermal Fillers

When it comes to improving your skin’s appearance, there are many different options. Skin boosters and dermal fillers are two popular choices, both using minimally invasive techniques to achieve a smoother, fresher appearance.

So how exactly do skin boosters differ from dermal fillers and which treatment is right for you? Read on to discover everything you need to know.

What are Skin Boosters?

Skin boosters are a non-invasive cosmetic treatment designed to improve the skin’s hydration, elasticity, and overall appearance.

The treatment involves a series of micro-injections that deliver hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body, into the skin. This substance attracts and retains moisture, helping to smooth out fine lines and improve the skin’s overall appearance.

Skin boosters are typically used on the face, neck, and hands, to enhance skin quality and give it a more refreshed look.

Skin Boosters vs Dermal Fillers

While both skin boosters and dermal fillers use hyaluronic acid, their applications and results are quite different. Dermal fillers are primarily used to add volume and contour to specific areas of the face, such as the cheeks, lips, and jawline. They are injected deeper into the skin to fill in wrinkles, restore lost volume, and enhance facial features.

On the other hand, skin boosters focus on improving the skin’s overall quality rather than adding volume. The micro-injections of hyaluronic acid work to hydrate and rejuvenate the skin from within, resulting in a smoother, more radiant complexion. Skin boosters are ideal for those looking to improve their skin’s texture and glow, without significantly altering their facial structure.

Another key difference is the longevity of the results. Dermal fillers typically last between six months to two years, depending on the product used and the area treated. Skin boosters, however, usually require a series of treatments to achieve the best results, with maintenance sessions needed every few months to sustain the improved skin quality.

Are Skin Boosters safe?

The safety of any cosmetic procedure is a common concern, and skin boosters are no exception. However, according to a recent study, less than 1% of patients experience adverse effects from skin boosters. The study, which involved over 20,000 cosmetic procedures, found that the rate of complications was remarkably low, at just 0.24%. In cases where adverse effects were recorded, they were typically minor and transient, with no serious complications reported.

The study also highlighted that when performed by experienced, board-certified practitioners, skin boosters are a safe option for improving skin quality. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure, combined with the use of hyaluronic acid contributes to its safety.

Dentist Kareem Mohammed specialises in a range of facial aesthetics and non-surgical treatments to enhance the face and skin. With a deep understanding of facial anatomy, he provides a high level of patient care, in our safe, calm clinical environment. If you’re not sure what treatment is most suitable for you, he can help make recommendations of procedures that will give you the aesthetic outcome you desire.

If you’re considering improving your skin’s appearance, book an appointment with Kareem by calling 0117 472 1600.

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Trainee Dental Nurse Nia Clemmings joins CK Dental

Trainee Dental Nurse

We’re delighted to welcome our new Trainee Dental Nurse, Nia. Nia is on the national apprentice scheme, so she is learning with us ‘on the job’ as well as attending online seminars.

Dental treatment coordinator Becky is her mentor at the clinic, but she’s also working alongside other nurses and dentists, working as part of a team.

“I’m excited to begin my dental career journey at CK Dental. I’m looking forward to learning practical skills and helping patients,” she said.

This is Nia’s first job in dentistry, having studied social sciences in school. Now, she is looking forward to developing new skills and having a positive impact on our patient’s lives by providing care and support during their treatments.

You can find out more about all the members of the CK Dental team on our team page.

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Dental Nurse Sophie Sallabank Joins our Growing Clifton Dental Practice

Dental Nurse Sophie

Dental Nurse Sophie recently joined our team. Sophie, who is originally from Bristol, lives in Henbury with her husband and two children.

Sophie comes to us with over eight years dentistry experience, having started her journey on a busy dental reception at an NHS dental practice in Henbury. Looking for a new challenge, she began her nursing course in 2019 with South West Dental Nurse Training.

“I have always been interested in the clinical side of dentistry,” she said, “I enjoy all areas of dental nursing but I have a real interest in orthodontic treatment and all surgical dentistry.”

She completed her national diploma in dental nursing qualification in 2021 and now, Sophie is looking forward to getting to know more patients at CK Dental.

You can find out more about Sophie and other members of the CK Dental team on our Team page.

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What To Do About Dental Phobia

Dental Phobia

More than 10 million adults in the United Kingdom have some level of dental anxiety, with an estimated six million suffering from dental phobia. If you are one of them, there are things that can help you deal with your anxiety and get the treatment you need.

Here we explore what dental anxiety is, the dangers it poses to your oral health, and the options available to help you get the treatment you need.

Different types of dental anxiety

Dental anxiety can manifest in various ways, each with its specific triggers. Here are some common types of dental anxiety:

Needles – Fear of needles, also known as trypanophobia, is a leading cause of dental anxiety. The sight or thought of needles can cause intense fear and avoidance of dental visits.

Gagging – Some people have a strong gag reflex that can be triggered by dental instruments. This can cause anxiety and discomfort, making it difficult to undergo even routine dental procedures.

Choking – The fear of choking, particularly when dental instruments or materials are in the mouth, can lead to significant anxiety. Patients may worry about the possibility of swallowing or choking during treatment.

Pain – Pain is a common concern that prevents many people from seeking the dental care that they need. The anticipation of pain, even with minor procedures, can cause severe anxiety.

Embarrassment – Many patients are embarrassed about the condition of their teeth or oral hygiene. This can lead to dental anxiety as they may fear judgement or criticism from the dentist.

Anaesthetic – Fear of anaesthetic side effects, such as feeling numb or dizzy, can also lead to dental anxiety. Some patients are anxious about the loss of control or potential allergic reactions to anaesthetics.

Understanding these specific fears is the first step in addressing and managing dental anxiety effectively. At CK Dental, our experienced and sympathetic dentists are able to help those with any fears and can discuss solutions and treatment options for helping to calm you before you go ahead with your appointment.

Symptoms of dental anxiety

The symptoms of dental anxiety can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include sweating, increased heart rate, trembling, nausea and even feeling faint.

Avoiding the dentist due to anxiety can lead to a host of oral health problems. Without regular cleanings and check-ups, plaque and tartar can build up, leading to gingivitis and eventually periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease. Neglecting dental care can also result in cavities, which can worsen over time and potentially lead to tooth loss.

Regular dental cleanings help keep teeth white and free from stains. Avoiding the dentist can lead to discoloration and a less attractive smile. Finally, poor oral health has been linked to systemic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, making dental care essential for overall health.

Helping patients with dental phobia

Fortunately, there are several strategies and treatments available to help manage dental anxiety. You should first openly discuss any fears you may have with your dentist. Understanding your specific anxieties allows them to tailor their approach and provide reassurance.

At CK Dental, we offer sedation for nervous patients, which involves using medication to help you relax during dental procedures. This can range from mild sedation (where you remain awake but relaxed), to deeper sedation (you are less aware of the procedure). For severe cases of dental phobia, procedures can be performed under general anaesthetic, ensuring you are completely unconscious and unaware of the treatment.

Dr Cornelius Krause is a Dental Phobia-certified professional, which means he has proven experience in treating nervous patients and we are on the Dental Phobia register of UK dentists.

As well as treatment options for nervous patients, our clinic has been specifically designed to put patients at ease with a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Our compassionate team provides a comfortable and stress-free experience, ensuring you receive the care you need without fear.

If you suffer from dental anxiety, get in touch with our friendly receptionists today.

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How to Achieve a Love Island Smile

Love Island Smile

Love Island is back on our screens and alongside the drama and romance, many viewers are noticing the dazzling smiles of the islanders. Their perfect teeth are inspiring countless fans to consider how they can achieve a similar look.

If you’re thinking about getting work done to achieve that perfect smile this summer, we’re here to reveal the best procedures available. We’ll also discuss why you might want to think twice before heading abroad for your treatments.

Straightening and whitening

One of the most effective ways to achieve a Love Island-worthy smile is through straightening and whitening treatments. Straightening your teeth can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile, making it more uniform and aesthetically pleasing.

Invisalign is a modern and discrete approach to teeth straightening and a popular choice because it uses invisible, comfortable and removable teeth aligners that fit into your lifestyle. Our dentists have undergone specialised training and are accredited providers of Invisalign.

Whitening, on the other hand, can brighten your smile by several shades, removing stains and discoloration caused by food, drinks, and lifestyle habits. Professional whitening treatments provided by a dentist are far more effective and longer lasting than over-the-counter products. These treatments use stronger whitening agents and ensure that your teeth are whitened evenly and safely.

We offer Enlighten whitening, one of the most effective whitening systems that can help you achieve a Vita B1 shade. This combined treatment involves a custom tray moulded precisely to your teeth and mouth shape, that is worn nightly for two weeks before a follow up with the dentist. We also offer Pola Light whitening, which involves us giving you a takeaway LED mouthpiece and whitening formula for even faster results.

Veneers and bonding

If you’re looking for a fast solution to achieve a flawless smile, veneers or composite bonding might be the perfect options for you. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that are custom-made to fit over the front surface of your teeth. They can correct a variety of dental imperfections, including gaps, chips, and discoloration. Veneers are highly durable and can last for many years with proper care.

Composite bonding is a less invasive alternative to veneers. This procedure involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to the surface of the teeth, which is then shaped and polished to improve their appearance. Bonding can be used to repair chips, close gaps, and even change the shape of your teeth. While not as long-lasting as veneers, bonding is a more affordable option and can still provide excellent results.

The dangers of going abroad for cosmetic dental work

In recent years, many people have chosen to travel abroad for dental treatments, especially to countries like Turkey. One of the primary concerns with getting dental treatments abroad is the lack of regulation and standards.

The qualifications of dentists and the quality of materials used may not meet the stringent standards set by regulatory bodies in the UK. This can lead to subpar results, infections, and other complications that may require corrective treatments once you return home.

Another significant issue is the lack of continuity of care. Follow-up appointments and aftercare are crucial for the success of any dental procedure. When you get your treatment abroad, it can become costly and inconvenient to arrange follow-up appointments if complications arise.

To find out more about treatments to help you achieve the perfect smile this summer, schedule an appointment with our friendly reception team. Our dentists can assess your oral health and make treatment recommendations based on your goals and aspirations. For nervous patients, or those with highly sensitive teeth, we also offer sedation for helping you stay comfortable throughout your treatment.

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The Benefits of Implant Retained Dentures

Implant Retained Dentures

When fitted correctly, traditional dentures can produce great results. However, they have some potential drawbacks, such as causing discomfort and making it difficult to chew. If you’re looking to regain your confidence with dentures that fit, require fewer trips to the dentist, and produce stunning results, implant retained dentures could be the perfect alternative.

At CK Dental, we use the latest Straumann® implant retained dentures. Here, we’ll explain more about these dentures, and why you might consider these over other traditional options.

What are implant retained dentures?

Implant retained dentures offer a distinct advantage over traditional dentures as they are anchored to dental implants instead of simply resting on the gums. Not only do the implants replace the missing teeth, but also the missing roots, which makes them more effective and longer lasting than alternative dentures or bridges.

The Straumann® implant system uses implants embedded directly into the jawbone, providing a stable base that ensures your dentures are secure. What sets this system apart from other restorations is its convenience, comfort and natural results, all in a quicker time. The modern materials used are strong, long-lasting and require much less invasive surgery to fit.

Designed to work with the natural biology of the mouth, these can often be placed in a single session. In many cases, temporary replacement teeth can be fitted the same day. This quick turnaround offers more convenience than other traditional methods that require extended healing time and multiple appointments.

The benefits over traditional dentures

The advantages of choosing implant retained dentures extend beyond mere aesthetics and convenience. According to recent research, patients can even experience cognitive improvement associated with implant-like stimulation in the jaw. Studies suggest that the stimulation from chewing with implant retained dentures can mimic that of natural teeth. This can promote brain activity and potentially boosts cognitive functions.

Implant retained dentures also provide a level of stability and comfort that traditional dentures just cannot match. This stability not only helps with chewing and speaking more naturally, but also significantly improves patient confidence with no issues of dentures moving out of place.

Maintaining good oral hygiene also becomes easier with implants. Unlike traditional dentures, which require adhesives and special cleaning, implant retained dentures can be cared for much like natural teeth. This ease of maintenance contributes to better oral health and reduces the risk of gum disease often seen with conventional dentures.

Are implant retained dentures right for you?

If you are considering implant retained dentures, then the process begins with a consultation. Your dentist will be able to advise whether they are right for you. They’ll assess your oral health but will also go through your individual health/lifestyle factors and medical history. If you decide to go ahead, the procedure can be done under local or general anaesthetic, or sedation.

If you are unsuitable for implant retained dentures, then your dentist can advise you on the most effective alternative restoration solutions.

To find out if implant retained dentures could be right for you, schedule a consultation with our friendly reception team. We are here to help and support you every step of the way on your journey to a better smile and improved dental health.

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Treatments for Enhancing Your Lips and Smile

Enhancing your smile

A perfect smile doesn’t just leave a lasting impression – it can also be a key factor in your overall confidence.

The quest for a perfect smile has led to an increase in social media trends, like the anti-wrinkle straw challenge on TikTok, claiming to prevent lip wrinkles. However, these quick fixes are often ineffective.

If you’re looking at enhancing your lips and improving your smile in a safe, effective way, there are several proven cosmetic dental treatments available.

Ranging from lip enhancements to teeth straightening and whitening procedures, here we’ll explore some of the most effective ways to achieve an attractive and confident smile.

Enhancing your lips

Dermal fillers are a popular choice for enhancing your lips, and for achieving a fuller, smoother and a more defined lip shape. By targeting the vermillion, which is the fleshy part of the lips, fillers add volume and project a more youthful plumpness.

These treatments can precisely outline the lip’s border, smooth out the fine lines around the lips, and enhance the Cupid’s bow for a more defined, attractive look. Fillers can also lift the corners of the mouth and soften the appearance of marionette lines.

Following the addition of Associate Dentist Kareem Mohammed to our team, you can now book facial aesthetics procedures at CK Dental including treatments for enhancing your lips.

Kareem, who has highly tuned skills in cosmetic dentistry, has a special interest in facial aesthetics and procedures that can help give balance to the whole face with lasting results.

Teeth whitening for a more confident smile

Once you have your lips taken care of, teeth whitening is an effective and popular way to boost the brightness of your smile. Over time, our teeth can become stained from common habits like drinking coffee, tea, red wine, or from smoking, which can dull their natural whiteness.

The teeth whitening process involves applying a powerful, yet safe bleaching agent, that penetrates the enamel to remove deep-seated stains and discoloration. The result is significantly whiter teeth that enhance your overall appearance and boost your self-confidence.

At CK Dental, our teeth whitening procedures are conducted with high-quality materials and by skilled professionals to ensure your comfort and safety. The process is quick, typically taking about an hour in the dental chair, which makes it a convenient option for those with busy schedules.

With proper care, the results can be long-lasting. Periodic touch-up treatments can also help maintain the whiteness for years to come.

Straighten the teeth with Invisalign

If you’re looking to straighten your teeth discreetly, Invisalign offers an excellent alternative to traditional metal braces.

Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually move your teeth into the desired position. The aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth. This method allows for a more comfortable and flexible teeth-straightening process, making it an ideal solution for adults and teens looking for a subtle way to improve their smile.

Begin your journey to a more beautiful smile by getting in touch today with our friendly reception team. They can schedule an appointment with Kareem to discuss a tailored treatment package for enhancing your lips and perfecting your smile. Find out more about the most effective treatments for achieving your specific goals, all carried out in our safe, calm and comfortable dental clinic in Clifton.

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