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Transform your Smile in Time for Christmas

Transform your smile

Christmas should be a fun and magical time, as you make memories with friends and family that you can treasure forever. However, if you aren’t confident about your smile, it can quickly turn into a festive nightmare.

If you are dreading having to show your teeth for family photos, there are ways you can transform your smile in time for Christmas. Regain your confidence and enjoy the festivities with these fast, simple treatments…

Get that missing tooth replaced

Missing teeth can have a significant impact on confidence. Whether you have one, or multiple missing teeth, having them replaced can instantly transform your smile.

Dental implants are a permanent solution, lasting a lifetime with adequate care. They are titanium screws that are placed into the jawbone. Surrounding bone eventually fuses to the implant, keeping it in place. The screw is covered with a crown that closely resembles the natural colour of your teeth.

Straighten out uneven teeth

If you have a misaligned smile, it can greatly impact your confidence. Many adults don’t seek treatment to straighten crooked or misaligned teeth as they don’t want the embarrassment of wearing braces. However, the good news is there are solutions that are practically invisible to the naked eye.

Invisalign teeth straightening is an innovative treatment, consisting of transparent aligners. Easy to put in and remove, they straighten out the teeth much quicker than traditional braces. You can expect to see results within six months, and you don’t need to attend as many follow up appointments as you would with traditional methods.

Get a brighter, whiter smile

Over time, the teeth can become discoloured due to staining from food, smoking, caffeine, and alcohol. When they turn yellow, you might not feel as confident showing your teeth when you smile.

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular treatments requested by patients. Helping you to achieve a brighter, whiter smile instantly, there are a variety of treatments available. At CK Dental, we recommend the Pola Light Teeth Whitening kit.

Utilising LED light technology, this at-home kit is a brilliant, advanced whitening system. You’ll receive the award-winning Pola whitening system, alongside a comfortable LED mouthpiece. Simply apply the mouthpiece for 10-15 minutes a day, for a total of five days. Tough stains will be gradually removed, leaving behind a bright, white smile.

Whatever teeth issues you are dealing with, there is a fast, effective treatment available. If you are interested in any of the above treatments, book a consultation with one of our friendly dentists today.

Throughout November, we are offering the Pola Light Whitening kits at an introductory rate of just £195. The treatment typically costs around £250, so take advantage of the offer while it lasts.

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Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

tooth sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity can develop at any time, causing anything from a slight painful twinge to serious discomfort.

Sensitive teeth aren’t just a real pain to deal with, they can also be a sign of a more serious problem. Here, we look at some of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity and how to treat it.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Many things can trigger tooth sensitivity. If you want to eliminate the issue, you need to first understand what’s causing it. Let’s look at some of the main causes…

Dental erosion

Over time, the enamel on the teeth can get worn away. As it does, the teeth lose their protective coating, leading to sensitivity. Acidic food and drink are typically to blame, though erosion also occurs naturally over time.

As you age, the gums can start to recede, sometimes revealing the root of the tooth. As there is no enamel to protect the roots, they can become extremely sensitive.

Gum disease

A buildup of tartar and plaque can lead to receding gums, and potentially damage the bones that support the teeth. When left untreated, gum disease can cause potentially serious health issues as well as tooth sensitivity.

Brushing too hard

You might think that brushing your teeth harder will help to keep them squeaky clean. However, what it actually does is wear away the tooth’s enamel. Brushing from side to side can also cause this problem, resulting in tooth sensitivity.

Teeth whitening

Now, teeth whitening is becoming a popular choice to remove stains from teeth and achieve a brighter smile. However, many treatments, especially those bought without the advice of a dentist, can leave the gums feeling sensitive and sore. This is mostly down to levels of bleach used in some teeth whitening procedures. At CK Dental, we can ensure that you receive the safest and most effective teeth whitening treatment.

You can opt for safer, gentler teeth whitening options such as the new *Pola Light teeth whitening kit. It provides additional hydration during the whitening process, minimising the risk of sensitivity.

*We currently have a limited number of Pola Light whitening kits at a special discounted price, so please get in touch to enquire by calling 0117 472 1600 or email enquiries@ckdental.co.uk.

Tooth grinding

If you frequently clench or grind your teeth, it can result in sensitive teeth. Over time, the grinding and clenching motions wear down the enamel.

Treatments include wearing a mouth guard for a period to prevent you from grinding the teeth.

Cracked teeth

Another potential cause of tooth sensitivity is cracked teeth. If the tooth becomes damaged or cracked, it may reveal the nerves of the teeth, causing severe discomfort.

When should I seek help for tooth sensitivity?

If you are experiencing sensitivity because of a broken or cracked tooth, you will need to seek help from your dentist. You may need a filling, or a crown fitted.

Any tooth sensitivity that carries on for longer than a few weeks should be looked into. There are many treatment options available, and your dentist will be able to help you identify the cause.

If you are struggling to manage your tooth sensitivity, book a consultation with one of our friendly dental experts today.

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What to Do If You Knock Out a Tooth

Knock out a tooth

Your teeth may be the hardest substance in the human body, but that doesn’t make them invincible. If you fall, or suffer an impact to the jaw, it can knock out a tooth, requiring immediate treatment.

Following Falls Prevention Week, a national awareness campaign that occurs each September, we look at what you can do if you accidentally knock out a tooth.

What to do if you knock out a tooth

Having a tooth knocked out can be a traumatic experience. However, there is a chance the tooth can be saved if you know how to handle it.

If you find the tooth, pick it up by the crown and not the root. If it is dirty, run it under the cold tap for a maximum of 10 seconds. Do not attempt to place it back in the hole if it is a milk tooth. Otherwise, put it in as soon as possible and seek urgent dental help immediately. If it won’t go in easily, place it in milk, or saliva until you can get to the dentist.

If your child has had a tooth knocked out, don’t try to place it back in. Keep the tooth clean, don’t touch the root and store it in milk until you can get to a dentist.

How is a knocked-out tooth treated?

If you have the tooth, your dentist will be able to help you secure it back in place. Splinting is typically used to keep the tooth attached to the teeth at either side. The splint will be left on for a couple of weeks before being removed.

If you couldn’t find the tooth or it is unable to be saved, a dental implant can be used to replace it. They provide a long-lasting solution, helping to hide unsightly gaps, and give you the confidence to smile.

Dental implants are created from titanium, and they are implanted into the jaw. A temporary restoration will be provided for a period of two to four months until the tooth has healed. Over that time, the bone will begin to grow around the implant, keeping it firmly in place.

Preventing a knocked-out tooth

Although it isn’t always possible to prevent an injury, there are some ways to prevent a tooth being knocked out. Mouthguards are especially effective for athletes participating in contact sports.

The Bristol Flyers Basketball team, sponsored by CK Dental, have custom-made mouthguards to protect the teeth during play. Mouthguards are affordable, effective, and can prevent an emergency trip to the dentist. Custom-made to fit each patient’s mouth, they can also be worn overnight to prevent teeth grinding.

If you have knocked out your tooth, getting to the dentist quickly is the key to saving it. To learn more about mouthguards or dental implants, book a consultation with our friendly dental team now.

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Looking Cool for School with Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign Aligners

Want straighter teeth but worried about having to wear braces? With the return of the new school year, the last thing you need is to worry about hiding your teeth when you smile. The good news is there is an alternative to traditional braces that can fix your teeth and help you regain your confidence.

Invisalign braces are 100% invisible, and they produce results in less time than traditional braces. Read on to find out more about this revolutionary tooth straightening approach.

What are Invisalign aligners?

Invisalign aligners are clear, custom-built aligners produced by Invisalign specialists. 3D digital scans are taken of the teeth, before the aligners are created – so that they fit snugly and comfortably. Additionally, there are no brackets or wires to worry about, and they are created from a flexible plastic.

The aligners are created to apply just the right amount of pressure to the areas needed, gradually helping to straighten out the teeth. It can take up to six months for the aligners to work, and they need to be worn for 20-22 hours each day.

You will need to remove the aligners to eat and clean your teeth, but other than that they stay firmly in place.

Benefits of Invisalign aligners

There are many benefits of choosing Invisalign aligners over traditional braces. The fact that you can’t see them and there are no brackets or wires to worry about is one of the main ones. This can be very reassuring for students who may worry about how they might look at school. Other benefits include:

  • More comfortable than traditional braces
  • Removable for eating and playing sports
  • No risk of emergency dental visits due to broken wires
  • Personalised to match your teeth

Those who wear Invisalign aligners claim they are much more comfortable than traditional braces. This, alongside the other many benefits, is because they are created to accurately fit your mouth. The personalised service means you benefit from the best possible results.

You will need to be monitored throughout the six months you are wearing the aligners. This will accommodate any changes as your teeth move into position.

Book now for a consultation

To learn more about Invisalign aligners and how they might benefit you, book a consultation with our new Invisalign specialist, Alex James. With a keen interest in cosmetic dentistry, Alex will instantly put you at ease. At your first meeting, you can discuss what to expect if you choose to proceed with the Invisalign treatment.

After wearing your Invisalign aligners for the specified amount of time – usually between 12 and 18 months, your results will be long-lasting.

Call us now to book your first appointment on 0117 472 1600. Alternatively, you can email us at enquiries@ckdental.co.uk.

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Associate Dentist Dr Alexander James Joins Our Clifton Practice

Clifton Practice

This month we welcome Dr Alexander James to our expanding team at our Clifton practice. A friendly, confident and approachable dentist – we are certain that patients will feel at ease throughout any dental treatment with him.

Alex graduated from the University of Bristol in 2016 and he was individually awarded the BDA Medal for achieving the highest grade for restorative dentistry in his year as part of his degree.

As well as providing all aspects of general dentistry, Alex has a particular interest in cosmetic dentistry. He is also a certified Invisalign provider, helping patients improve their smiles.

We asked Alex a few questions about his experience, his motivations and why he has chosen to join our Bristol dental practice now.

What is it about being a dentist that motivates you?

The most motivating and rewarding part of being a dentist is witnessing the transition of a formerly very nervous patient into someone who actually finds attending the dentist enjoyable! It is a privilege to have the opportunity to build such amazing trusting personal relationships with so many different individuals. It is also genuinely fun to have a job that involves problem-solving and so many technical skills on a daily basis.

What are the most common dental issues that you see?

The two most common problems we face daily are without question: dental caries (tooth decay) and periodontal (gum) disease. Both are almost entirely preventable with good oral hygiene and limiting the frequency of consumption of sugars in the diet.

So why CK Dental?

CK Dental is a stunning ultra-modern practice that strives to offer patients the very best journey and experiences from patient care to high quality treatments. Being situated in the heart of Clifton Village is probably the most desirable location to work in Bristol.

I have been equally very impressed with Principal Dentist, Cornelius and his wife Sheryl (Practice Manager). They have both been so friendly and accommodating in my encounters with them so far. I just get the feeling I am onto something really special with this practice.

I am genuinely very excited and proud to be joining the team at a practice as alluring as CK Dental. I will make a full commitment to every patient I treat to deliver high-quality care in both the overall patient experience and clinical aspect of the treatment. I take pride in my chair-side manner and sincerely hope that every patient benefits from my friendly and amicable yet ethical and professional approach.

You can find out more about Alex, 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 practice, please call us on 0117 472 1600.

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Taking Care of Your Teeth on Holiday

Teeth on Holiday

Heading off on a much-needed summer getaway this year? While holidays are all about kicking back and taking it easy, it’s important to keep on top of your dental health. Spending just a few minutes each day to look after your teeth on holiday can help to spare you a trip to the dentist on your return.

So, what should you be doing to take care of your teeth on holiday? Here’s some simple tips you can follow…

Get a teeth check-up before going on holiday

To make sure you don’t need to deal with any nasty dental problems while you are away, it’s a good idea to undergo a check-up. Your dentist will be able to spot any potential problems before you jet off. This will ensure you don’t end up seeking emergency dental work on your trip.

Pack your toothbrush

It’s not always as easy to pick up a toothbrush on holiday as you might think. Obviously, this will depend upon where you are heading to, but just to be safe double check you have packed yours before you go. It is also worth packing some interdental brushes – ideal for cleaning in tight spaces between your teeth as well as between braces, crowns, bridges and implants.

In the event you do find yourself in a foreign country without a toothbrush, you can place a clean face towel over your finger with a little toothpaste on it. Use your finger to rub it over your teeth and then rinse off. Try and use a cloth that has a rough surface for best results.

Try and stick to three meals a day

On holiday, it’s easy to spend all day grazing on snacks. Depending upon the type of snacks you are consuming, this can cause havoc for the teeth. To avoid snacking too much, try and stick to eating three meals a day.

Keep your lips protected

It isn’t just your teeth that you need to protect while on holiday. Your lips also need a little TLC due to their exposure to the sun’s UV rays. To keep them protected, apply sunscreen regularly. When you drink or eat something, re-apply the sunscreen.

Stay hydrated

It is important to stay hydrated for adequate saliva production. This helps to rinse debris and food particles from the mouth, preventing infections and gum disease. Drinking water is much better for your oral and general health than alcoholic or sugary drinks.

Pack an extra set of dentures

If you wear dentures, don’t forget to pack an extra pair to take with you. You’d be surprised by how many people lose their dentures while on holiday. The last thing you need is to be left without any dentures for the duration of your getaway.

Added protection for your teeth on holiday

Prevention is always the best way to avoid any unwanted trips to the dentist while you’re away or when you return. For total reassurance, a Denplan Essentials plan includes Worldwide emergency dental cover. It also includes temporary dental treatment in case of emergency either at home or abroad.

If you follow these simple tips, your teeth and gums will thank you. If you’re due to set off on your summer holidays this month, book a check-up with CK Dental. Ask our friendly practice team about our different Denplan monthly treatment plans to suit your budget and needs.

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Common Questions About Dentures

Dentures

Thinking of getting dentures but aren’t sure what to expect? While they are often associated with old age, dentures can be an ideal treatment option. And it doesn’t matter how old you are.

Covering up unsightly gaps in the teeth, dentures can help restore your confidence and rectify problems with speech. Interested to learn more? Discover the answers to common questions about dentures below.

What type of dentures are there?

You may be surprised to learn that there are more than one type of dentures available. You can have fixed or removable dentures, and they can be made from a variety of materials.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common types of dentures used on patients…

Full dentures

If you need to replace a full arch of teeth, full dentures are an ideal option. Typically made from resin and an acrylic base, full dentures are designed to fit comfortably over the jawbone and gums. Impressions will be taken before the dentures are custom made.

Partial dentures

If you have one or more teeth that need to be replaced, partial dentures can be provided. They will fill in the gaps, blending in effortlessly with your natural teeth. Secured down with a metal framework, these types of dentures are typically made from chrome, rather than acrylic. This is because chrome is more durable and lightweight.

Implant retained dentures

If you need a more permanent fix, implant retained dentures may be recommended. Unlike full and partial dentures, they cannot be removed. Instead, they are secured into place with titanium screws that are inserted into the jawbone.

There are pros and cons to each type of denture, making it imperative to go over your options with a dentist. They will be able to help you determine which one is right for you.

How long do they last?

How long your dentures will last will ultimately depend upon the type you have. At CK Dental, we only ever use the highest quality materials. They typically last anywhere from five to ten years provided they are cared for correctly. It is a good idea to undergo a check-up every six months to check the fitting and condition of the dentures.

To help make them last longer, patients are advised to treat their dentures as they would their natural teeth. Removable dentures can be soaked in a specialist cleaner and cleaned regularly with a soft toothbrush.

What can I expect from my consultation?

During your consultation, impressions will be taken of your mouth, or a scan will be conducted. This will help to ensure the dentures created will fit comfortably in the mouth. Once fitted, your dentist will provide you with information on how to keep them clean and hygienic.

To learn more about dentures and whether you are a good candidate, book a consultation with one of our friendly dental experts today.

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Our Teeth Whitening Recommendations To Achieve A Seductive Smile

teeth whitening

If you’ve been following Love Island this year, you will notice that many islanders have invested in dazzling smiles. White teeth indicate good health and genes – so a great way of attracting a partner. Contestant Ekin-Su revealed that she travelled to Turkey for a full set of (bargain) veneers. But, is it necessary (or even safe) to spend so much for a seductive smile?

Certainly, as we see the return of a more ‘sociable’ summer, there is an even bigger appetite for feeling confident and looking your best. And the demand for whiter, brighter teeth is certainly not waning.

So, what if we told you that you could follow the Love Island trend, but with a teeth whitening treatment that is both safe and effective? Here, we look at whitening treatments that will help you to achieve a more confident smile this Summer.

Teeth Whitening Goals

When you look in the mirror and are faced with stained teeth, it may be difficult to decide what whitening treatment will rectify the situation as quickly as possible. Especially when faced with many options including pharmacy available products, professional in-practice treatments and take-home kits.

Also, considering the levels of carbamide and hydrogen peroxide in different treatments can be confusing. These chemicals can be harmful when used in higher concentrations, and can even damage your teeth if used incorrectly.

The best first step is to speak to your dentist. By assessing your oral health, your tooth sensitivity and the types of stains you want removing, your dentist can recommend the most appropriate whitening product for you that achieves your goal shade.

Pola Light Teeth Whitening Kit

Pola Light is a brand new at-home whitening kit product from an award-winning teeth whitening specialist, SDI. It is provided by regulated, reputable dentists like CK Dental because it is reliable, fast and easy-to-use. In fact, you can expect results in as little as five days!

One of the main advantages of Pola Light is that it is safely formulated to remove longer term stains and return your teeth to their whitest natural shade.

Some other key benefits include;

  • Just 20 minutes treatment time a day
  • A portable, rechargeable and comfortable cordless mouthpiece
  • Returns patients smile to the whitest natural shade possible

Enlighten Evolution Whitening

Alternatively, if you are looking for long-lasting teeth whitening that is monitored by your dentist using custom-fit trays that fit snugly around your teeth, choose the Enlighten whitening option.

Also made by a technology leader and offered by CK Dental, this well-trusted whitening treatment works through the teeth enamel, so does not harm the tooth surface. Additionally, it is the only product to guarantee a B1 shade of white, with a 98% success rate.

You will receive professional-strength gel, and will certainly achieve a better result than over-the-counter products.

Discuss Your Teeth Whitening Options

If you want to feel more attractive this summer, but are not sure which teeth whitening treatment is best for you, call our friendly dental reception team at CK Dental on 0117 472 1600.

Book a consultation with one of our dentists to assess your oral health, discuss your goals and talk through your options. Before long, your confidence will be boosted and you will achieve your own dazzling smile!

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Healthy Snack Choices For Your Teeth

Healthy Snack Choices

A recent survey revealed that 82% of dentists reported an increase in numbers of patients requiring fillings following the pandemic. One reason for this is that oral health routines have slipped, with many people only brushing their teeth once a day and forgoing flossing. However, another study showed that more people gave into their cravings, turning to sweets, chocolate and salty snacks.

Here, we share some healthy snacking choices to help protect your oral health in light of Healthy Eating Week that runs from 14th to 18th June.

What are healthy snack choices?

Although savoury snacks are a healthier choice, you still need to take care with highly processed foods such as crisps and snacks; they may still contain some sugar.

Some recommended healthier snacks include:

  • Carrots, celery or other crunchy vegetables
  • Unsweetened natural yoghurt, cheese and nuts – eating yoghurt and cheese helps to neutralise acids in the mouth and restores a natural PH balance
  • Rice cakes or oatcakes with hummus or cream cheese – oatcakes can provide more natural vitamins and minerals. Especially compared to white breads

Consider a dental treatment

If this all sounds like too much hard work, don’t worry. By visiting your dentist and dental hygienist regularly, you will be able to keep your teeth in good condition. As well as cleaning away any plaque debris and giving you tips on your oral hygiene, they can recommend treatments to keep your teeth healthy.

A teeth whitening treatment is a great option for people who need to brighten up teeth that have become stained. Also, an Invisalign teeth straightening treatment can make them easier to clean. Both these treatments can give you a huge boost in confidence, with very little interference in your daily life, and with the results seen in very little time.

Keep your smile healthy by giving us a call on 0117 472 1600 to book an appointment.

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Questions For Your Dental Hygienist

dental hygienist

Sam, the dental hygienist at CK Dental, carries out professional plaque removal and other dental services for patients of all ages that visit our Clifton dental clinic.

A Dental Hygienist and Therapist graduate, Sam is always learning and developing her skills. Recently, she trained with a leading periodontist to further improve her gum disease knowledge and treatment techniques. Sam loves empowering her patients to manage their oral health.

To support our patients, we have put together some common questions to ask your dental hygienist – with some helpful answers from Sam.

Why do my teeth feel sensitive?

It is important to check with your dentist or hygienist about tooth sensitivity as this is often something that can be easily treated. It may also indicate that there is a more serious oral health condition.

Common reasons for teeth sensitivity include:

  • Brushing too hard: Brushing your teeth too firmly causes gum recession and tooth wear, leading to sensitivity, and using an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor can prevent this.
  • Acid erosion: Avoid consuming acidic foods and drinks between meals. Brushing too frequently and after meals can increase sensitivity, so brush only twice a day and wait at least an hour after eating before brushing your teeth.
  • Teeth grinding: Grinding and clenching your teeth will cause tooth wear and sensitivity. Stress management and a night guard can help protect your teeth from tooth wear.

Sam’s tip: “If there is a particular area or tooth that causes sensitivity, you can try rubbing sensitive toothpaste directly on the area.”

Why do my gums bleed when I brush my teeth?

“Gums bleed when they are irritated and inflamed,” Sam explains. “This is due to plaque being left on the gum line of the teeth, resulting in gum disease.”

It is important to look after your teeth and gums and have regular dental check-ups and hygiene visits to manage plaque build-up and your home care.

Clean your teeth with an electric toothbrush twice a day and also in between teeth daily using well-fitting interdental brushes; this will maintain gum health between visits.

How often should I see my hygienist?

At CK Dental, we believe that early detection of any oral health problems is better than dealing with more extensive damage further down the line.

“Bacteria build up on your teeth every day, so by visiting your hygienist regularly, we can remove hard and soft plaque deposits and, most importantly, give you the skills you need to keep your mouth healthy,” confirms Sam.

We recommend maintenance every three to six months, depending on your level of risk. Some patients may start with an active phase of treatment to get gum disease under control. Maintenance allows us to monitor your gum and tooth health and work with you to correct any incorrect dental techniques – like missed areas and poor brushing.

Will a hygienist appointment hurt?

Professional plaque removal is usually pain-free, and we make sure our patients are as comfortable as possible. However, if we anticipate some discomfort, we provide local anaesthetic injections to make sure your treatment is painless.

For those patients that are anxious about the treatment, CK Dental offers conscious sedation.

See the hygienist – and leave smiling brighter!

Although we have covered some common questions asked about oral hygiene, it is important to ask questions relating to your own teeth and gum health. Sam can give advice on making your teeth look better – be that diet changes and brushing techniques or with a whitening treatment.

A lot can be discussed and achieved in a dental hygiene appointment – and you will leave with bright, clean teeth and fresh breath!

Give us a call on 0117 472 1600 to book your appointment with the hygienist today.

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