London cosmetic dentistry

Posts Tagged ‘dentures’

Restore Missing Teeth with London Dental Implants

Sunday, September 7th, 2008

Dental implants are among the most successful procedures used to replace missing teeth. Studies have shown a greater than 90% five-year success rate. Even though there are a number of other restorative options available for the treatment of missing teeth, dental implants in London have proven to be functionally effective and durable. In countless cases, dental implants may be the choice for the restoration of all required functioning of the teeth and their supporting structures. Dental implants are more natural looking, and stronger and more durable than their restorative counterparts (bridges, removable partial and full dentures) and offer a more permanent solution to tooth loss. Implants can be used for single tooth or multiple teeth replacement(s), and can also be used to stabilize partial or full dentures. Your dentist will decide which type and how many dental implants are required to obtain the optimal result.Any dentist trained in the placement of implants can perform this procedure; however the patient may be referred to a dental specialist. A dental team approach usually provides the patient with the best results. Successful implants require that all parties involved; the patient, and the dental team, outline and follow a careful plan of treatment and stay in close contact with each other to make sure the patient’s expectations are met.
Dental implants are mostly composed of a titanium material screw and a crown. A small-diameter hole (pilot hole) is drilled where the implant is to be placed to effectively guide the titanium screw that holds a dental implant in place. To avoid damaging vital jaw and face structures, the dentist must use great skill and expertise when boring the pilot hole and sizing the jaw bone. For best results the dentist usually performs a comprehensive oral examination, X-rays and even a CT-Scan (a three-dimensional jaw scan), to ensure ideal dental implant placement.
Implants are typically placed in a single sitting but require a period of osteointegration; a process by which the jaw bone attached to the implant. Osteointegrated implants are the most universally used and successful dental implants. These implants take anywhere from three to six months to anchor and heal. Once significant osteointegration occurs, the restorative procedure can be completed. In contrast, if osteointegration does not occur, the implant will fail. Dental implants must also be cleaned regularly, as peri-implantitis (oral bone loss) can occur around them causing them to fail. On the plus side, dental implants are not susceptible to the formation of cavities.

London-Based Clinic offers Full and Partial Dentures

Friday, September 5th, 2008

Full dentures and/or partial dentures may be required to replace your teeth and soft tissues, if you have some or numerous teeth missing. Two types of dentures available in London are complete and partial dentures, and also variations of these. Full dentures, also called complete dentures, are usually required when all of your teeth are missing, whereas partial dentures can be used when there are several of your own teeth left in your mouth. The use or partial dentures depend upon several issues, such as the location of your remaining teeth, what kind of shape your teeth are in, and their form and function. When you visit your dentist in London, they will perform a complete examination, and discuss your best treatment options.
Full dentures may be fabricated as either “regular” or “immediate” dentures. “Regular” dentures are usually made for patients who have had their teeth missing for awhile, and either require a new (i.e., initial) “complete” denture or a denture to replace their existing denture. Several reasons to replace an old denture are wear and tear, damage, and/or lack of fit to the soft tissues beneath the denture.
“Regular” full dentures are fabricated after the teeth have been extracted and the gum tissue has healed. This denture is usually ready for insertion in approximately eight to twelve weeks following teeth extraction. On the other hand, “immediate” dentures are made prior to the teeth being extracted, and after surgery to remove the teeth, the denture is inserted immediately. This allows the soft tissues to heal and the extraction sites to be covered by the denture acting as a surgical stent. It allows the patient to function and have better aesthetics during the healing period. These dentures are usually relined with a soft material, as the soft tissue heals and shrinks. When healing is complete, a “regular” denture is fabricated for the patient.
Removable partial dentures usually consist of artificial plastic or porcelain teeth that are incorporated into a pink, gingival-coloured acrylic base, placed onto a metal undersurface that contain metal clasps to hold the denture in place. The partial denture is removable for cleaning and also to help the patient to clean their natural teeth. The goal of the partial denture is to replace the missing teeth, as well as keep them from drifting. There are also precision and semi-precision partial dentures that contain various attachments instead of clasps that are more aesthetic and can further minimize adverse forces on the supporting teeth. There are many options to replace missing and/or damaged teeth! It is a good idea to visit your dentist in London and discuss all of your options prior to commencing any dental procedures.

Restore Missing Teeth in London with Dental Implants

Friday, September 5th, 2008

Dental implants are an excellent alternative to being partially or totally edentulous (without teeth). They are being successfully used in London to replace either a single tooth or many missing teeth. Dental implants have an over 90% five-year success rate. Even though there are numerous other dental treatments available to replace lost dentition (teeth), dental implants performed in London have proven to be very useful, successful and long-lasting. In countless dental treatments, implants most likely are the choice correct choice to restore the correct functioning of your teeth. They are more natural looking, sturdier and longer-lasting when compared to other tooth/teeth replacement procedures, and offer a more lasting answer for missing teeth. Implants can be used for single tooth or multiple teeth replacement(s), and can also be used to stabilize partial or full dentures. Your dentist will decide which type and how many dental implants are required to obtain the optimal result.
Any dentist trained in the placement of implants can perform this procedure; however the patient may be referred to a dental specialist, especially if the implants are being placed in the area of the maxillary sinus. A dental team approach usually provides the patient with the best results. Successful implants require that all parties involved; the patient, and the dental team, outline and follow a careful plan of treatment and stay in close contact with each other to make sure the patient’s expectations are met.
Dental implants are mostly fabricated using a titanium alloy shaped in the screw-like form, with an attachment to place the final restoration. A little opening is made where the implant is to be placed to effectively guide the drill and the implant into position. To avoid damaging oral and facial anatomy, the practitioner must be very skillfull. For best results the dentist usually performs a comprehensive oral examination, X-rays and even a CT-Scan (a three-dimensional jaw scan), to ensure ideal dental implant placement.

London-Based Dentist Can Treat Teeth Grinding

Friday, September 5th, 2008

Bruxism is the term used by dentists referring to the act of teeth grinding. This problem has been successfully treated in London for many years. Bruxism usually occurs when you are sleeping, and there are numerous causes, including but not limited to: a discrepancy in jaw position when the teeth meet upon biting creating a slip when the teeth are clenched together; malposition or misalignment of teeth; and stress. Bruxism also occurs in children, usually because their teeth are not touching each other properly during their development. This will not usually last when the adult teeth develop and are biting together in the mouth. However, it is important for both children and adults to visit the dentist when teeth grinding occurs, and to also have their regular dental check-ups.Although bruxism is not a major health problem, it may initiate problems, such as mouth, jaw and facial pain. Bruxism can also occur because of faulty dental restorations, ill-fitting partial or full dentures, missing teeth, teeth prematurely biting together, etc. Your dentist can place a thin piece of carbon-like paper between your teeth to see if you are biting prematurely on certain teeth. There are also numerous other tests that can be performed by your dentist to see where the problem may lie. Your dentist may fabricate either a customized soft rubbery appliance or hard clear acrylic appliance for you to wear as both a diagnostic aid, or as treatment for your teeth grinding. If your regular dentist is unable to help you, you may be referred to the proper specialist for help.

There are several common therapies for bruxism. One of these is stress management, and referral to the proper professional. However, this may not be easy to accomplish, because some people do not readily see the mouth-mental health connection. As previously mentioned, an acrylic appliance can help both diagnose and provide dental therapy to people that grind their teeth. Also, a soft rubbery appliance can be manufactured. These appliances should be custom made for each individual, using a mold of their mouth that is taken by a licensed dentist. Dental procedures that restore the proper bite and functioning of the patient’s teeth may also be necessary, along with bite adjustments where the dentist marks the teeth and properly adjusts the patient’s bite. Perhaps helping the patient to overcome some long-developed bad habits such as improper teeth, mouth and jaw positioning would help. Sometimes dentists will use short-term medications to help to relax their patient, but this could lead to dependence on these medications and this is not highly recommended.

Useful Tips for the Denture-clad Londoner

Thursday, August 28th, 2008

So, got yourself a new pair of dentures? These dentures are uniquely created for you and have been designed to match your facial features and complement your complexion. At first, your new dentures may feel strange, but that is only natural and nothing to worry about at all, as you will get used to them very soon. When you look into the mirror, you may feel that you look different, hopefully better! Your voice may also sound different at first, but will soon return to normal as you get used to your new set of dentures.
We take off our shoes every night before going to bed to relax our tired feet. In the very same manner, your dentures should be removed at night to allow your gum tissue to relax. When not in use, your dentures must be placed in a denture cleanser or at least a glass of clean water which will help prevent warping of the denture material.
People have crazy eating habits in London and this will not go down well with dentures. It is a common complaint that people experience slipping of their teeth while eating. Improper chewing on one side can cause dentures to tip and loosen. The right way to eat is to place small amounts of food on both sides of the mouth and chew up and down in a vertical motion, which equalises pressure on both sides of the mouth and reduces movement.
It is very important to clean your dentures everyday with a good quality denture toothbrush and toothpaste. This will help prevent the gradual build-up of plaque and stains and also odour. You can also soak your dentures in a denture cleanser.
Finally, it is also important to visit your dentist regularly. Get your dentures checked regularly for their fit, so that adjustments can be made if necessary. So, with proper care of your dentures, proper eating habits and regular check-ups, you can most certainly enjoy good oral health!

Implant retained over-dentures explained - for London’s dental patients

Wednesday, August 27th, 2008

Implant retained over-dentures have been used for the past twenty years in London and other places around the world to treat fully edentulous mandibles. There is considerable literature available in London to support this treatment’s use and efficacy. These procedures are done on two, three or four implants and are relatively simple to carry out, making them an ideal choice for dentists working on their first few implant patients. It also does not require too many appointments and is cheaper than most other forms of implant treatments, like fixed bridges. Just like conventional dentures, they are capable of restoring facial profile and lip support very effectively, making them a viable option for dentists and patients alike.
It is unfortunate that some dental practitioners oversimplify these implant procedures in their implant advertisements, ignoring the potential risks. For instance, a healthy patient who has a healthy bone structure is a great candidate for this kind of treatment. But, the reality is that such patients are hard to come by especially for over-dentures. Implant retained over-dentures are certainly a great option for patients seeking implant treatments, but what is essential is that they understand that they are not without potential pitfalls.
For example, it is common to see people in their seventies and eighties requiring implant treatment. At this age, the chance of them having other concomitant conditions is quite high, which can have a significant effect on the implant treatment. There are quite a few other conditions that might affect this kind of implant treatment, such as diabetes which impairs bone healing, steroid-based treatments, respiratory or cardiac disease history and of course tobacco, alcohol or drug abuse. Therefore, a detailed medical history is essential before treating a case, even if it maybe uncomplicated.

London Dental Patients Treated For Xerostomia

Tuesday, August 26th, 2008

Xerostomia or dry mouth is a condition when the glands that produce the saliva for the mouth stop producing enough to keep the mouth moist. This problem in London dental patients seems to be very common and is usually a result of high stress. If the problem continues for longer duration of time, it is wise to find a good dentist in London to have them check the problem. Dry mouth can also be a symptom of other, more serious dental diseases.
If you think you may have dry mouth problems, the following symptoms may be present. See your dentist right away.
• Saliva thickens and you feel as though you can not talk or swallow correctly.
• The tongue gets a rough feel to it
• Your throat feels dry as does your mouth
• You may have a burning sensation in the mouth or be sensitive to spicy and salty foods
Halitosis or bad breath may be present
• Sores in the mouth are common
• Lip cracking can occur
• The tongue can be red, dry and raw
• If you wear dentures, it is more difficult to have them in than usual
• Your thirst increases
The reason dry mouth is such a problem is because saliva is needed for many things. It helps us to chew our food, swallow without choking, talk, taste correctly, and aids in the digestion of food. It also keeps certain bacteria in the mouth, under control so we do not have to deal with infections. Saliva also protects the teeth from decaying.

Dental Implants in London to replace missing teeth

Sunday, July 20th, 2008

 For people with missing teeth, dental implants are used. These have proven to be very essential for replacing lost teeth.
In the case of missing teeth, the roots are replaced by devices called implants. They are made use of to prop up dentures, bridges, or crowns. Implants are positioned through a surgical procedure in your jawbone. Generally, implants give a firmer and more natural feel than other techniques used for restoring missing teeth, like dentures.
There are a number of reasons why it is necessary to have missing teeth replaced:
- You are more self-assured when you have your full complement of teeth. You need not be bothered that people may make out you have some teeth missing.
-When you lose a tooth, the region of your jawbone that secured those teeth begins to wear away. In due course, so much bone is lost that you will have to do bone grafting to reconstruct your jawbone prior to your dentist in London putting in implants or fabricating dentures that fix neatly.
-Tooth loss impacts your chewing ability and has an effect on the kind of foods you are capable of eating. Most people with missing teeth have bad dietary regime, which can have a bearing on overall well-being.
-Tooth loss can alter your bite, the manner in which your teeth meet. Alterations in your bite could result in you having difficulties with the jaw joint or the temporomandibular joint.
-Loss of teeth could cause alterations in speech, which can also impact your sense of confidence.