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4 tips to keep your teeth healthy this Summer

teeth healthy

Our summer diets can often wreak havoc on our teeth and gums. And it is not easy to keep your teeth healthy on a diet that includes the odd ice cream, fizzy drinks, picnics, and BBQs.

However, we have put together some top tips to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy in the warm months ahead.

Know when to brush your teeth

We all know we should be brushing twice each day. However, if you consume a lot of sugary food and drink, you are going to want to brush more frequently. Whenever you eat or drink something sugary, brush your teeth straight after. Alternatively, you can rinse using a good mouthwash.

If you indulge in foods and drink high in acid, you should also brush your teeth afterwards. However, with acidic foods, it is best to wait up to twenty minutes before brushing.

Drink lots of water

Obviously, you cannot take a toothbrush and mouthwash with you everywhere you go this summer. So, to help keep the teeth and gums healthy while you are out enjoying the sun, drink lots of water instead.

You can use water to rinse the mouth after you have eaten sugary foods. Not only does this help to get rid of bits of food and excess sugar, but it also increases saliva production. This prevents a dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath. Get in the habit of carrying bottles of water around with you wherever you go this summer.

Consider switching to low sugar options

While the best option to prevent issues with the teeth this summer is to avoid sugary refreshments altogether, you could switch to low-sugar options. You will have to be careful here as low sugar doesn’t always mean the drinks are better for you. They can often be acidic, which can be equally as bad for the teeth. Always read the label before investing in a low sugar alternative.

Invest in sensitive toothpaste

If you suffer with sensitive teeth, a summer diet can cause the symptoms to worsen. If you don’t already, invest in a toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth. This will help to relieve your symptoms when required. However, if you have constant tooth sensitivity, it is a good idea to consult with your dentist. There may be an underlying cause that needs to be addressed.

These are some of the best tips you can follow to keep your teeth healthy and happy this summer.

If you are concerned about your teeth or gum health, book a consultation with one of our experienced dentists at CK Dental by calling 0117 905 9866.

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What can I do if my tooth gets knocked out?

tooth gets knocked out

Our teeth are tough, but they are not immune to damage. For example, they can be knocked out by an accident or blow to the face. The good news is a knocked-out tooth can typically be replaced successfully provided you act quickly.

Here, you will discover what you can do if your tooth does get knocked out. Even if it cannot be replaced, there are other options available.

What should I do if there is bleeding?

When a tooth gets knocked out, bleeding is common. While it can be alarming seeing a lot of blood gushing from the tooth, there are ways to stop it. Find a clean handkerchief and fold it up. Then, place it on the socket and bite down firmly.

It is important to avoid taking aspirin as this can make the bleeding worse. You should also avoid rubbing clove oil onto the area.

Can a whole tooth be replaced?

Sometimes, a whole tooth can be replaced if it is fully intact. However, it will need to be done quickly. You have around 30 minutes to get medical treatment to successfully replace the tooth. In some cases, teeth have been successfully replaced within an hour, but within 30 minutes is the best time to do it.

What do I do with the tooth?

If you have the tooth, avoid touching the root. If it is dirty, wash it with tap water or milk. Don’t let it dry out or attempt to disinfect it. You can put it back in by holding it at the crown and placing it firmly into the socket. Bite down on a clean handkerchief for at least 15 minutes and get to the dentist as quickly as you can.

What if I cannot find the tooth?

If you can’t find the tooth, it could be that you have swallowed it. In these cases, you will need to undergo an X-Ray to check if it is there.

What will happen at my emergency dental appointment?

After securing an emergency dental appointment, your injury will be assessed and cleaned up. If there is bleeding or bruising, the treatment which can be carried out may be limited. Additional appointments will likely be required for follow up treatment.

What are immediate implants?

In some cases, you may be suitable for immediate implants. Provided the bone around the missing tooth is still intact and the gum is infection free, immediate implants are a great option.

The root of the tooth will be extracted, before an implant is immediately placed in the socket. A temporary crown can be placed on top until the implant has fully healed. A more permanent crown will be provided once it has fully healed.

If you lose a tooth, seeking emergency dental work is important. You can call CK Dental on 0117 905 9866. The sooner you can get to us, the higher the chance that the tooth can be saved.

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What are All-On-4 teeth implants?

All-On-4 teeth implants

Full mouth dental implants are a great way to replace a lot of missing and damaged teeth. The only trouble is they can be very expensive. If you are looking for a way to cut back the cost of your treatment, All-On-4 teeth implants could be an ideal solution.

Here, we will look at what All-On-4 implants are, the benefits they deliver, and how they are fitted.

What are All-On-4 dental implants?

All-On-4 implants were developed by Nobel Biocare. It aims to replace teeth with fewer implants than standard methods.

Typically, with traditional procedures, you would need 8-10 implants fitted in each jaw. However, most patients who undergo All-On-4 implants only require four implants. They are also fitted in one day, providing instant results.

How are they fitted?

These types of implants are fitted at a 35–40-degree angle. This is different to other implants which tend to be inserted vertically. You will undergo a consultation prior to the treatment to ensure it is the best option for you. This will involve a CT scan, alongside an assessment of your mouth.

If you choose to undergo the procedure, dental impressions will be taken and sent to a lab. There, a customised dental bridge will be created. You may need to have any remaining teeth extracted which will be done under a local anaesthetic. You can also ask for a sedative if required.

After any teeth have been extracted, a couple of holes will be drilled into the front of the jaw. Another two holes will be drilled at the rear to hold in the implants. After the implants have been put into position, the mouth is cleaned, and incisions will be stitched. Your new teeth will be inserted either the same day, or the next day.

The main benefits of All-On-4 implants

So, what makes All-On-4 implants superior to other methods? There are a lot of benefits of this procedure including:

  • It is ideal for those whose teeth cannot be restored
  • It can greatly boost confidence
  • Offers fast, almost instant results

If your teeth cannot be restored, All-On-4 can help to regain your confidence. They are much more convenient than getting a set of dentures, and the procedure itself only takes around an hour to complete.

You can walk out with an entire set of new teeth the same day as the treatment. With other traditional methods, you often need to wait at least six months for work to be completed. So, if you are looking for a fast, practically instant treatment, All-On-4 teeth implants could be exactly what you need.

The only potential downside with the treatment, is that there will be a fixed prosthesis on the teeth. This can make oral hygiene more difficult than having a single implant on one missing tooth. However, your dentist will be able to give you tips on how to maintain good oral hygiene after the implants are fitted.

All-On-4 is an excellent dental treatment that can greatly improve your confidence. To find out more, book a consultation today at CK Dental by calling us on 0117 905 9866.

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It’s National Smile Month! Our top tips to improve your smile

As May marks National Smile Month, now is the perfect time to start thinking about your oral health. During the coronavirus lockdown, dentists expressed their concern over the number of patients missing appointments. Good oral hygiene helps to protect our overall health, as well as giving us that perfect smile.

Here, we will reveal some of the best ways to protect your oral health in light of National Smile Month.

Improve your daily routine

There are a lot of things you can do in your daily routine to improve your oral hygiene.

Making sure you brush twice a day is the first thing to focus on. It might seem harmless to skip brushing your teeth at night for example. However, plaque can build-up, leading to long term health issues. As well as brushing twice each day, you should also make sure you are brushing for two minutes at a time with a fluoride toothpaste.

Flossing is equally important as it helps to remove bits of food and plaque between the teeth. Typically, you are told to floss after you have brushed. However, there is some evidence to suggest that flossing beforehand helps to make brushing your teeth more effective.

A good tip is to spit the toothpaste out, rather than rinse it out. When you rinse the toothpaste away, it can also remove the fluoride. This is what helps to protect the teeth, so washing it away will cause the toothpaste to be ineffective.

To complete your daily oral routine, using a fluoride mouthwash can also help. It will prevent any plaque from building up, clearing away any debris. Of course, it also helps to give you a nice minty, fresh breath.

Be wary of what you eat

When it comes to snacks, not all of them are great for your teeth. While snacking can form a healthy part of your diet, eating sugary foods can prove detrimental to your dental health.

If you do need to snack, focus on healthy, non-sugary foods. Nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables are all great snack choices for the teeth.

Consider dental treatments

As well as keeping your oral health in check at home, there are some great dental treatments to help keep the teeth healthy. A straightening treatment can help to correct issues such as food getting stuck between the teeth. An Invisalign straightening treatment uses clear aligners that sit comfortably in your mouth, so there is little interference in your daily life. It also gives you a more confident smile.

You can also opt for a teeth whitening treatment. These are great for removing stains from the teeth, as well as to achieve a natural looking brighter smile in next to no time.

To ensure your teeth and gums are as healthy as they can be, book a consultation with CK Dental today. Call us on 0117 905 9866 or email info@ckdental.co.uk .

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Our Top Reasons for Getting a Scale and Polish

scale and polish

Very few people enjoy going to the dentist – even if it is just to get a scale and polish. However, taking care of your oral hygiene is extremely important to your health. Whether you love or hate the dentist, getting regular check-ups is key to ensuring your teeth and gums remain healthy.

Below, we’ll reveal our top reasons patients should undergo a scale and polish as part of their routine check-up.

1. Preventative care

The number one reason for visiting a dental hygienist is to prevent future problems. By addressing issues before they even occur, it can save you stress, money, and potentially a lot of pain too.
Another benefit of preventative care is that it is much cheaper than paying for ongoing oral issues. If an issue occurs due to poor hygiene, it could be very expensive to fix.

2. It can whiten the teeth

While there are some whitening toothpastes available, nothing can keep the teeth cleaner than a scale and polish. Brushing alone isn’t going to give you that bright white smile that you dream of.

Dentists have the right tools to eliminate stains effectively from the teeth. They can help you to achieve the level of whiteness you desire. Regular scale and polish treatments also help to prevent stains from building up in the first place. However, if you are looking for an even whiter result, consider a teeth whitening treatment for longer lasting results.

3. You’ll enjoy shorter appointment times

Nobody likes spending a long time at the dentist, and with regular hygiene appointments you won’t need to. By attending regular appointments, it helps to keep your oral health in check. This means, when it is time to visit the dentist, they won’t need to spend a lot of time cleaning the teeth and gums.

Your appointments will be much shorter if you make the effort to visit your dentist regularly. This is particularly true when you consider how long you would need to spend at the dentist if something does go wrong.

4. It can be covered on your treatment plan

One reason you might put off having a scale and polish regularly, is the cost. However, did you know that hygienist appointments may be covered on your insurance?

The CK Dental Denplan Essentials plan provides 2 check ups and hygiene visits per year, 10% discount on any clinically necessary treatment and worldwide insurance cover – including when away from home in the UK. With plans starting at £19.50 per month, and with no joining fee at the moment, we can offer an affordable way to stay on top of your dental hygiene.

These are just some of our top reasons for getting a scale and polish. The more you look after your oral hygiene, the better your overall health will be. Remember, regular check-ups and preventative care don’t just protect your oral health. They also protect against heart disease and other physical health issues too.

Book a scale and polish today to start taking better care of your dental health. To find out more about our Denplan monthly dental treatment plan, give us a call on 0117 905 9866.

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What is Minimally Invasive Dentistry?

minimally invasive dentistry

New Associate Dentist at CK Dental, Sonia Manikam believes that modern dentistry is a blend of science and art.

Sonia has a passion for minimally invasive dentistry. But what is minimally invasive dentistry? And how does this work with a trend for whiter and straighter teeth?

With more advanced dentistry techniques, using the best restorative materials, worn down teeth can now be preserved more easily. Teeth can even be perfected to look straighter and whiter. Dentists can help patients to manage their oral health better, as well as build their confidence.

What is ‘minimally invasive dentistry’?

Despite our best efforts to brush our teeth as frequently as our dentist encourages us to, most of us have some tooth decay. According to government national statistics, 92% of adults aged 20 to 64 have had dental caries in their permanent teeth. This can be caused by a number of factors, including bacteria in your mouth. Also, frequent snacking, sipping sugary drinks and not cleaning your teeth well can cause harm.

The ‘minimally invasive’ approach to treating dental caries incorporates the dental science of detecting, diagnosing, intercepting and treating dental caries on the microscopic level. The aim is maximum conservation of the dental enamel and dentin of a tooth. To manage tooth decay without losing too much of the tooth.

How have minimally invasive dental techniques improved?

Expanding on her view that modern dentistry is a combination of science as well as art, Sonia said: “Modern dentistry isn’t just lab-based. It’s about the dentist actually building up the teeth.”

“It is really nice to give a patient a nice smile, and to do that free-hand. It is possible to change the shape and size of teeth, and this is a very precise thing. It’s about functionality (being able to eat), but it’s also about confidence.”

People are grinding their teeth down faster, and there is the ongoing problem of acid erosion to teeth, mainly caused by sugary foods. Composites, or white fillings, were not even an option thirty years ago. Back then, the dentist would need to remove a lot of the tooth to fit a crown. Now, composites are much stronger, and made from more long-lasting materials. They can be layered and shaped to the teeth, without the need to drill any tooth away. The new surface can also be blended to match the enamel colour.

Dental veneers are now a common request by patients, but these may only require a very thin layer of enamel removed from the front of the tooth. The shape and colour of veneers can be adjusted with minimally invasive techniques.

How are techniques used in cosmetic dentistry?

The good news is that when teeth are missing, worn down, misaligned or discoloured, there are now more treatment options available which involve minimally invasive techniques. And patients can even be shown how their teeth will look after treatment.

Aligning the teeth involves some short-term orthodontics such as Invisalign. Only a fine amount of enamel may be rubbed away by the dentist, so the teeth can move into position within the clear aligners. This is unquestionably a more comfortable and less invasive alternative to braces, with noticeable results within weeks.

A patient may also want to proceed with teeth whitening. The results of this would be seen much quicker – after just two weeks. The Enlighten whitening treatment at CK Dental uses non-acidic whitening agents, which would not harm the tooth enamel.

After straightening, and whitening then composites are normally introduced, so that they can be colour-matched and moulded with the new shape of the teeth.

Sonia explained that it is amazing how teeth can be built up, even in very complex cases. And even though it is now far less invasive, for nervous patients worried about sensitivity when undergoing any dental treatment, there are more ways to help here too. At CK Dental, patients can expect a calm, reassuring and relaxed setting. During a consultation with the dentist, patients can discuss the option of sedation and general anaesthetic.

To find out more about any of our treatments, discuss your options if you are a nervous patient, or to simply book an appointment, please give us a call on 0117 905 9866.

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Georgina wins a whiter smile with CK Dental

whiter smile

Georgina Gargett, a 30 year-old Travel Agent Manager was over the moon when she found out that she was the lucky recipient of a Polanight Teeth Whitening treatment with CK Dental.

Georgina, normally works in central Bristol, but is now working from home in Yatton, North Somerset and has been using video calls for work and her book club. Confronted by her own appearance more often, she had been thinking about having a teeth whitening treatment, and especially as she would be getting married in just a few months.

She had been keeping a beady eye on local competitions on Instagram and she was delighted when the opportunity to win a free whitening treatment with the Bristol based dentist popped up in January. She could have a whiter smile in time for her big day!

The initial consultation

At CK Dental, the first step of a teeth whitening treatment involves a consultation with the dentist to check your general oral health and suitability for the procedure. Georgina’s initial appointment was arranged very promptly at the dental clinic in Clifton which is at the Nuffield Hospital.

“Everything felt safe and hygienic on entering the building. I was even given a fresh medical mask to wear! I wasn’t nervous at all. The team at CK Dental were really friendly and put me at ease”, she said.

Georgina was the perfect candidate. Her teeth were in a good condition, and this was backed up by X Rays from her regular dentist. The dentist did a scan of her teeth so that a mould could be made for the whitening trays.

The teeth whitening treatment

Once Georgina had collected her customised trays, she was ready to go with a plan of using them every night, for 14 consecutive nights. She would then go back to the dentist for a final check-up.

The convenient thing about the Polanight Treatment that Georgina received, is that she could apply it while she slept. Because of the concentration of carbamide peroxide, Georgina was able to achieve stronger whitening in a shorter period of time. In fact, she started noticing the difference in just a week.

“Although this was a gradual change to me, several friends mentioned that they could really see the difference when we met up for a socially distanced walk.”

Side effects of teeth whitening

Like any treatment, teeth whitening can cause some potential side effects. Georgina was told to expect some mild sensitivity for a few days after the treatment.

“I would put the trays in half an hour before going to sleep to get used to them. I just got used to them and I was able to sleep fine, they weren’t at all uncomfortable.”

Other than some sensitivity, there were no other side effects. In fact, she was able to carry on drinking tea and coffee and eat whatever she wanted.

Happy with the results

Georgina was really pleased with the results of her treatment, and says that she “highly recommends it, and the team at CK Dental”.

One of the best things about this treatment is that it doesn’t require extensive maintenance. You will only need to top up the treatment for one night every couple of months during the first year. Unsurprisingly, Georgina is planning a top up treatment just ahead of her wedding in the Summer.

Why not treat yourself to a whiter smile with an effective, simple whitening treatment. Call CK Dental on 0117 905 9866 to book a consultation.

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Why Invisalign might be better than a facelift

better than a facelift

Those looking to improve their facial appearance tend to focus on drastic procedures such as a facelift. While these procedures can deliver excellent results, less invasive procedures may be a better option.

Did you know for example, that many people are finding an Invisalign treatment to be a better alternative to a facelift? Here, we’ll look at how changing your teeth through the Invisalign system can prove better than an extensive facelift procedure.

Why might Invisalign be better than a facelift?

The jaw and teeth provide the frame for our face. Therefore, making adjustments to how they look can ultimately impact our entire facial features. Since the start of the lockdown, the cosmetic dentistry sector has seen a significant rise in demand. The rise in Zoom video calls, additional time on social media as well as desire for a ‘pick me up’ from social isolation, has led to many people choosing treatments to correct their facial imperfections.

Invisalign braces help to correct the shape of the teeth and jaw, in turn helping to alter the appearance of facial features. Unlike a facelift, the treatment is also very hard to spot and it doesn’t require a huge recovery time. Facelifts are renowned for their lengthy recovery process and you’ll need to wear a bandage for a week or two. This makes it difficult to hide the procedure from others.

With Invisalign, the results are natural too. The braces are created using a mould of your mouth. This ensures they will fit correctly and feel comfortable. Facelifts on the other hand, tend to create a more dramatic impact. A full face lift is often easy to detect due to how extensive it is.

The benefits of Invisalign

Invisalign braces deliver a lot of great benefits. The fact that they are practically invisible to the naked eye is a major benefit. This is great for those who worry about having standard braces because of how they might look.

Ageing also tends to be more visible on the lower part of the face. As Invisalign braces help to alter the shape of the jaw, it can help to correct the signs of ageing in the area. Unlike a lot of procedures, they also provide natural looking results. This means it won’t be obvious that you have had work completed. The additional structure and support provided by the braces also helps to reduce sagging.

They can also widen the smile, making it more prominent. You’ll find them easy to clean and look after, and most patients feel they are comfortable to wear.

What is Invisalign Go?

Invisalign Go is aimed at patients with mild correction issues, who are looking for fast results. Clear aligners are used to straighten the teeth in just six months. The original Invisalign treatment takes around 12-18 months to work fully. You will need to wear them all of the time, besides when brushing, flossing and eating.

Both Invisalign and Invisalign Go have proven highly effective at helping patients to achieve a perfect smile. As well as improving the teeth and jawline, they can also help to improve the signs of ageing.

Book a consultation today to see how Invisalign could help you to boost your confidence and achieve that perfect smile. Call CK Dental on 0117 905 9866 to book an appointment with our experienced dentists.

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Welcome to our new associate dentist, Sonia

New Associate Dentist at CK Dental

We’re delighted to welcome a new member to our team at CK Dental. Associate Dentist Dr Sonia Manikam qualified at the University of Bristol in 2017. She then embarked on a four-year Masters of Clinical Dentistry in Fixed & Removable Prosthodontics at the prestigious King’s College London.

As well as general practice, Sonia enjoys and has a special interest in minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry and short-term orthodontics, creating beautiful smiles using a conservative approach. She has a relaxed friendly style to put you at your ease however complex the procedure may be.

Outside of dentistry, Sonia enjoys going for long walks in the countryside and playing the piano. Call us on 0117 905 9866 to arrange a consultation with Sonia.

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How is your dental health? Enter our Instagram competition

dental health

Due to the lockdowns forced into place by the pandemic, thousands of patients have missed their routine check-ups. With everything going on and dental appointments being postponed, it’s easy to forget about your dental health.

Taking good care of your teeth and gums is vital to your overall health. So, how can you look after your dental health while you wait to attend your routine check-up?

Brush twice a day and don’t forget to floss!

It has always been recommended that we clean our teeth twice each day. However, it’s easy to let this routine habit slip during difficult times. While skipping brushing your teeth once a day every now and again isn’t going to harm you, consistently doing it will. So, start by making sure you are brushing twice a day with a good quality toothpaste.

Alongside brushing daily, you should also floss the teeth. This is because flossing gets rid of the harder to reach plaque. Even the best electric toothbrushes won’t remove all of the plaque in your mouth, instead they focus on removing it from the back and front of the teeth. With flossing, it eliminates plaque from in between the teeth and gums. This is where the most harmful microbes live. If left unchecked, they can lead to gum disease.

When should you change your toothbrush?

In order to maintain good dental health, you are going to need to change your toothbrush from time to time. It is recommended that you change it every 3-4 months. Keep an eye on the bristles and replace them when they start to fray.

If you don’t change your toothbrush frequently enough, your teeth could suffer. Frayed bristles aren’t going to be strong enough to remove the plaque. Over time, this would lead to a plaque build-up.

The array of different electric or ‘power’ brushes in the market might be overwhelming, as well as specialist toothpastes and mouthwashes that can be beneficial to your oral hygiene. Your dental hygienist can recommend those that are best for you.

Checking your gum health

Your gum health can have a direct impact on your overall health. Those with gum disease have been shown to have an increased risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Therefore, keeping on top of your gum health should be a priority.

There are a lot of ways you can keep your gums healthy at home. Brushing and flossing will go a long way to keeping them healthy. Quitting smoking, using fluoride toothpaste and a therapeutic mouthwash will all help.

Bleeding around your teeth when you brush, bad breath and tooth sensitivity are all symptoms of gum disease. If you have these symptoms, visiting your dentist is the best course of action. They will be able to treat the gum disease, preventing it from worsening.

At CK Dental, we are currently running a competition through Instagram where you can win a free check-up as well as a hygiene appointment that would normally be worth £145. Be quick to enter though as the competition closes on March 26th, 2021. Head over to our Instagram page now to learn more.

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