Author: Clapham South Dental Centre

Clear braces in Clapham for a healthy and beautiful smile

Thanks to advances in dental technology there are many different types of braces available to help straighten your teeth. Teeth straightening is commonly sought after here at Clapham South Dental Centre and we have different treatment options available to help you achieve more even teeth which are not only beautiful to look at, but also help promote better dental health. clear-braces-clapham

Crooked teeth not only affect the appearance of your smile but are more prone to the development of dental problems. This is because there is greater build-up of plaque and tartar on your teeth as there are more hard-to-reach areas in which bacteria and food particles can linger even after brushing. Plaque and tartar are the main cause of most dental issues. Over time they can cause cavities and tooth decay, as well as gum disease and eventually tooth loss. By addressing the misalignment issues of your teeth early on in life you will be able to maintain better dental hygiene and therefore prevent more serious complications in the future.

Clear braces Clapham give you a discreet and effective solution for correcting the maladjustment of your teeth, to achieve a healthy, neatly aligned smile. There are different types of clear braces Clapham designed to suit your individual dental requirements and your personal preferences.

Call us here at the surgery or book an appointment online using our website to find out more about clear braces Clapham. Our highly skilled dentists will carry out a comprehensive examination of your teeth and gums to make sure that they are safe to move. We will also carry out a smile assessment using X-rays and 3-dimensional scans where necessary to show you how the unevenness of your teeth can be corrected using clear braces Clapham.

Fixed braces

For complicated orthodontic cases our dentist can recommend fixed clear braces to help straighten your teeth. These include invisible or tooth coloured brackets and wires which are attached to the surface of your teeth and designed to pull your teeth into a neater alignment. This is a discreet alternative to traditional orthodontic braces. They are the most effective at correcting much more complex conditions of the teeth and will do so without drawing any extra attention to your mouth.

Invisalign

If you have mild or moderate misalignment of the teeth then you may wish to speak to us and find out about clear aligners for correcting this. Invisalign is one of the most popular examples of clear aligners for teeth straightening. It works using thermoplastic aligners which are worn in the mouth and as the name suggests they are almost invisible. They work by pushing your teeth into a neater alignment, they are highly convenient as they can be taken out of your mouth and replaced as necessary. They are also more comfortable when worn and they are designed to fit over your teeth with accuracy and precision.

Speak to us at the surgery today to find out more about clear braces and which could be the most suitable for helping to address the misalignment issues of your teeth.

Invisalign for improving the appearance of your teeth

Invisalign Clapham is a modern and highly popular method of addressing mild to moderate misalignment of teeth, to improve the aesthetic appearance of a patient’s smile. invisalign-clapham

The earlier in life that you decide to address the misalignment issues of your teeth the less chance there is of experiencing dental complications in the future. Speak to us at Clapham South Dental Centre today and find out about Invisalign Clapham and whether or not it is suitable for you.

Is Invisalign suitable for you?

Here at our practice we will carry out a thorough examination of your teeth and gums to make sure that you are not suffering from any dental problems. It is important that your teeth are clean and that your gums are strong and healthy to be able to undergo Invisalign Clapham safely and without causing any dental complications. If you do have particular oral conditions that require attention then you need to undergo restorative dental care prior to beginning treatment with Invisalign Clapham.

Once our dentist is happy that Invisalign is appropriate for you then you will undergo a specialist 3D scan using the latest iTero technology which helps create a digital image of your mouth from which an individually tailored treatment plan will be put together for you.

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign works using a series of clear thermoplastic aligners which push your teeth into a neatly aligned formation over a certain period of time. Your scan results will be used to manufacture the aligners themselves with accuracy and precision, so that they fit you comfortably, help produce predictive results and create excellent aesthetics. Each of these aligners is designed to be worn for 2 weeks at a time and will move your teeth by approximately 0.25 mm during this period. The aligners need to be worn in your mouth for approximately 22 hours of the day and taken out at mealtimes so that you can enjoy your meal whilst soaking the aligners in a cleaning solution. Once you finish your meal you are able to brush your teeth thoroughly and floss to make sure your mouth is clean before placing the aligners back into your mouth. This helps you maintain good oral hygiene throughout the process.

During your treatment you will visit the dentist after changing every 3 or 4 aligners to make sure that the process is coming along successfully. Our dentist will also check that your teeth and gums remain healthy during this time and that no underlying issues are developing as a result of the movement of your teeth.

Invisalign is a highly popular treatment choice because it allows you to correct the aesthetics of your teeth at your complete discretion. As the name suggests the aligners are almost invisible and they are also comfortable to wear and highly convenient, with little or no effect on your daily lifestyle. Speak to us at the surgery today to find out more about Invisalign and begin your journey to achieving a beautiful smile and promoting better dental health very soon.

Dental implants in Clapham as a durable solution for tooth loss

Tooth loss can be an uncomfortable and difficult situation to find yourself in and can occur as a result of many different reasons. The main causes of tooth loss are poor oral hygiene and avoiding the dentist. It is important that you visit your dentist here at Clapham South Dental Centre on a regular basis to make sure that plaque and tartar do not build up on your teeth and to prevent the development of dental issues which can cause irreversible complications in the future. Here at the centre we recommend that you visit your dentist at least once every 6 months for an assessment and hygienist appointment. At the assessment the dentist will carry out a comprehensive examination of your teeth and the hygienist will remove any plaque and tartar which has built up in your mouth and examine your gums for any signs of gum disease. If you maintain these two appointments once every six months on a regular basis then you will be able to enjoy clean teeth, healthy gums and good dental wellbeing for life.

dental-implants-clapham

Unfortunately tooth loss can occur as a result of other reasons too. An accident or an emergency which causes trauma to your mouth can result in tooth loss. If you have avoided the dentist for a long period of time then you may have irreversible damage to your teeth which requires a tooth extraction. If you have a missing tooth or you have lost multiple teeth then you need to speak to us at the practice and find out about replacing them.

Dental implants

We can offer you dental implants Clapham as a durable solution. Over the last few decades dental implants Clapham have become the gold standard in tooth replacement therapy. Whether you are looking to replace one missing tooth or you have lost multiple teeth, dental implants Clapham could be the answer to your tooth loss. Dental implants Clapham are, in many cases, a permanent solution to replacing your missing teeth. Unlike removable dental prosthetics, dental implants become firmly embedded into your mouth and are a permanent fixture to which your choice of prosthetic is securely attached. Dental implants can help support a crown, a bridge or a set of dentures and you can use up to 4 implants to replace all your teeth.

First you will need to undergo a thorough examination of your teeth and gums to make sure that you have no other underlying dental issues. If so then these can be addressed with our wide range of restorative dental treatment and procedures. Our dentist will make sure that your teeth are clean and free of tartar and that your gums are free of disease. It is also important that you have sufficient healthy bone to allow successful dental implant surgery. The implant works by replacing the root of your missing tooth and this artificial root will be inserted directly into the bone socket of the missing tooth or teeth. Dental implants help restore the appearance of your smile and also the full functioning of your mouth to what it was prior to tooth loss.

Invisalign – invisible braces in Clapham

Everyone wants beautiful straight teeth, however, most people do not want to undergo orthodontic treatment to achieve this. Traditional orthodontic braces can draw further attention to your mouth, as they are made up of metal wires and brackets which are attached to the front of your teeth. This treatment usually lasts from six months up to a few years and although it is highly effective for teeth straightening the majority of adults are reluctant to choose traditional orthodontic treatment and would rather settle for the appearance of their smile as it is. There has been much research and development to help combat this attitude.

invisible-braces-clapham

Invisible braces

Over the last few decades there have been significant advances in dental technology to help people address the misalignment issues of their teeth without drawing attention to their mouth. Invisible braces Clapham are a highly popular alternative to traditional orthodontic treatment for teeth straightening. There are different types of invisible braces Clapham to suit all dental requirements and personal preferences. It is never too late to address any misalignment of your teeth and by doing so, not only will you improve the appearance of your smile, but you will also promote better dental health for the rest of your life. With orthodontic dental treatment it is important that you have healthy teeth and gums. It is vital that you maintain good oral hygiene and that you visit your dentist on a regular basis so that your teeth are free of decay or disease. You will need to book an appointment with our dentist here at Clapham South Dental Centre and we will carry out a thorough examination of your teeth and gums to make sure that there are no underlying issues.

If you have healthy teeth and gums then our dentist will carry out a smile assessment to find out which type of invisible braces Clapham are most suitable for you. We are able to offer you fixed invisible braces Clapham for correcting extensive orthodontic issues or we can offer you removable invisible braces to help address minor misalignment of your teeth.

Invisalign in Clapham

Invisalign aligners are one of the most popular types of invisible braces available. Introduced in 1999, in the last two decades Invisalign aligners have been used to correct millions of smiles across the world. Invisalign continues to grow in popularity thanks to its convenience and discretion. As the name suggests, Invisalign aligners are clear thermoplastic trays which neatly straighten your teeth in an unobtrusive and subtle way. They are individually manufactured to move your teeth over the course of 3 months to 18 months depending on the extent of misalignment that you begin with. Invisalign aligners are highly convenient as they can be taken out of your mouth and replaced as necessary. They are easy to clean and maintain and they are designed to be worn for around 22 hours of the day, taken out when enjoying your meals or cleaning your teeth. Speak to us at the practice today to find out more about Invisalign and other invisible braces to address the aesthetic issues that are affecting your teeth.

What are the differences between fixed and removable clear braces?

The availability of clear braces Clapham at Clapham South Dental Centre is a very effective way to help patients with orthodontic issues achieve an aesthetically pleasing smile. clear-braces-clapham

Teeth that have grown in less than ideal positions or a too crowded mouth can trigger a plethora of undesirable consequences that can not only lead to poor oral health issues but also negatively impact overall wellbeing and quality of life.

Fortunately for patients, clear braces Clapham offers a forward-thinking approach to the teeth-straightening process. It is also fortunate that due to the diverse array of barely discernible braces in the market, patients now have a choice in which tool to use to straighten their teeth.

In this post, we answer the question on how to tell the difference between the various types of clear braces Clapham.

What sets fixed and removable clear braces apart

The most obvious difference between removable and fixed clear braces is how they look: removable clear braces are inherently aligner-like trays made from clear medical-grade plastic material while fixed clear braces resemble traditional metal braces except that they are made with clear wires and brackets.

The second difference patients should take note of is how they fit. With fixed braces, our dentist will affix the appliance to the teeth and carry out manual adjustments to the appliance throughout the treatment. A fixed orthodontic appliance takes the pressure off the patient from having to remember to wear the appliance after removing them.

A removable aligner tray is inserted by the patient to sit on their teeth for a minimum period of 22 hours a day. A set of trays will be provided when treatment commences, and it is up to the patient to remember to keep them safe when not worn and put them back on after eating and cleaning teeth.

The third difference is cleaning the braces. Removable aligner trays make oral hygiene easier and quicker. By simply removing the trays, patients can go ahead and clean their teeth as per normal. Fixed orthodontic appliances require a little more time and effort as patients have to carefully remove trapped food particles from in between wires and brackets.

Another significant difference for patients to take note of is how each type of device relates to their diet. With removable aligner trays, there are allowances for a more varied diet. As the device will be removed before eating, there is less concern of them becoming damaged by hard and crunchy foods.

Fixed braces have to remain on teeth for the entire duration of treatment; therefore, patients have to exercise caution when considering their diet. We can advise on which foods to avoid. It must be said that no matter which orthodontic device a patient opts for, it is best for all patients to stick to a tooth-friendly diet and avoid the frequent consumption of highly acidic and sugar-heavy foods.

Both fixed and removable clear braces have their ups and downs, and a patient should factor all of them in when deciding on which type to use. Moreover, not every patient will suit a device of their choice as their orthodontic situation and the results they want may dictate otherwise. Our experienced dentist at Clapham South Dental Centre can provide more clarity on which device would be most suitable for you, so schedule a consultation today by giving us a call.

Why do patients prefer Invisalign?

It was not too long ago when the only orthodontic appliance used to straighten teeth were fixed metal braces. Thanks to a forward-thinking approach to orthodontics, patients are now spoilt for choice with a plethora of exciting teeth-straightening options, including Invisalign Clapham. invisalign-clapham

As a long-standing dental practice, we at Clapham South Dental Centre know well that today’s patients look for customised, efficacious and convenience-focused dental treatments, which is why we are delighted to offer high-quality treatment options such as Invisalign Clapham.

Why are patients so drawn to the appeal of Invisalign Clapham? What does this system offer that makes it an increasingly popular choice for both patients and dental practitioners? Here, we take a look at some of the looked-for benefits of Invisalign.

Marvellous reasons to choose Invisalign

The first advantage of significant importance to patients on the Invisalign system is that the aligner trays are removable. This feature easily allows for fuss-free oral hygiene routines and the freedom to eat a more inclusive diet.

How this works is that patients are allowed a two-hour maximum period (for some patients this can extend to four) during the day within which they must eat and clean their teeth. Along with this convenience comes the need to practise restraint (no lingering over meals and snacking at will). Patients will also have to ensure that they adhere strictly to the time for removing the aligner trays.

There is hardly any patient who does not appreciate the discretion of these aligner trays. It is quite common for teens and adult patients to be more self-conscious about making it known that they are on orthodontic treatment, and the transparency of the clear plastic material the aligners are made of helps to obscure this fact. Invisalign patients can go about their day with ease knowing that the aligner trays are barely noticeable.

Another factor worth taking into consideration is that the system affords patients unrivalled control over their own treatment plans. It is up to the patients to comply with the guidelines for use as advised by our supervising dentist. Not only do patients need to ensure they wear the aligners for the minimum prescribed number of hours, but they must also follow the interchange schedule for each aligner tray in the series provided.

In addition to this, patients come to appreciate the fact that due to their responsibility in changing the aligners according to the schedule, they do not have to attend frequent dental appointments. As each tray has been deliberately designed to move teeth into desirable positions, there is no need for manual adjustments to be made by our dental practitioner.

While such desirable benefits are great reasons to make Invisalign the orthodontic solution of choice, there are a few things to know about choosing these removable aligners. Of prime importance is the safe storage of the aligner trays when they are not being worn. This is to protect the trays from damage and prevent loss – both of which are crucial if a patient is to avoid interrupting their treatment plans. To discuss what this treatment plan involves, please set up an appointment with our dentist by giving us a call at Clapham South Dental Centre.

Are dental implants a suitable option for replacing missing teeth?

Few patients realise that there are other undesirable repercussions that follow when adult teeth are lost. It is not just the unsightly gaps in the dental arch that are created when teeth fall out that is of concern. Losing teeth holds a great risk for overall dental health and poses a danger to physical and mental wellbeing.dental-implants-clapham

The problems caused by a gap open in the dental arch range from an increased risk of losing more teeth, existing teeth moving out of place, problems with the bite and gums, and a loss in jawbone density. Modern dental restorations solutions like dental implants Clapham can assist in avoiding all the issues listed, as well as improve masticatory function.

At Clapham South Dental Centre, patients can look forward to innovative dental solutions to replace missing teeth. Our implant dentist is well-experienced in offering top-quality dental implants Clapham. For patients wanting to know whether tooth replacement implants are a suitable dental restoration method for them, here are a few excellent reasons why we think they are.

Excellent reasons to consider dental implants Clapham

Tooth replacement implants offer better oral health

There is no equal to dental implants to offer the much-needed support to neighbouring teeth and underlying structures such as the jawbone. When teeth move out of their natural position because gaps are left open, this can create undue wear and tear on the dental arch during biting and chewing. Without tooth roots to keep jawbone quality strong, the jawbone can lose density and bone reabsorption can take place.

Dental implants allow patients to enjoy a varied dietary menu

Patients with missing teeth do not have the same masticatory force as those with a complete dental arch. These patients often have to sacrifice eating certain types of food like nutrient-dense crunchy fruits and vegetables. With reliable dental restorations, patients can once again opt for a diverse array of food and strengthen their nutritional intake.

Tooth implants achieve a desirable natural aesthetic appeal

This missing teeth replacement solution is a great option as it comes the closest to looking and feeling like natural teeth. Patients on implant treatment plans can smile, talk, eat, laugh and socialise with undiluted confidence.

Taking care of dental implants

One of the top priorities for patients choosing tooth replacement implants is observing the recommended guidelines on how to care for them. The high efficacy of dental implants remains unquestioned, but for patients to see long-term use, they need to be vigilant about implant maintenance.

Fortunately, this is easy to do as caring for implants is as simple as caring for natural teeth. The following guidelines are non-negotiable: daily brushing and flossing, avoiding bad lifestyle behaviours, such as smoking, and routine professional dental checkups. Meet these golden dental rules and you can enjoy your implants for an extended length of time.

To discuss the benefits of dental implants further or for a professional assessment to determine your suitability, reach out to our team at Clapham South Dental Centre. Our staff at the reception desk will be happy to set up an appointment for you.

What types of invisible braces are there?

Progressive dental technologies have brought about a revolution in how patients can revitalise their smiles for enhanced physical confidence with the introduction of invisible braces Clapham. With the availability of invisible braces Clapham, patients can embark on their teeth-straightening process without the worry of having the whole world know of it.invisible-braces-clapham

Adult patients who have roles that require social interactions and need their teeth straightened have been quick to embrace orthodontic appliances that are discreet and barely discernible to others.

Our friendly dentists at Clapham South Dental Centre support patients who want comfortable and convenient orthodontic solutions and are delighted to make available an array of invisible braces Clapham for patients to choose from. In this post, we take a look at what patients can expect in the range of invisible braces available.

Different types of invisible braces within easy reach

The type of invisible braces that most patients who walk through our doors enquire about is Invisalign. The Invisalign system embraces the use of aligner-like trays made of intuitive medical grade plastic that can be customised for each patient. Each patient on this treatment plan will receive a specific number of trays (depending on their orthodontic situation) that will reposition teeth to achieve the desired result. What is fascinating about the trays is that they are designed to be removed by the patient; therefore, they offer a convenient option for patients who qualify for this orthodontic solution.

Not all invisible braces are designed to be removable. Ceramic and lingual braces are two common types of fixed invisible braces popular with patients. Ceramic braces are similar in design to the traditional metal braces except for the fact that the brackets are tooth-coloured ceramic material as opposed to silver metal.

There is no equal to fixed braces for correcting complex orthodontic issues, and patients who are looking for that ‘invisible’ factor in their orthodontic treatment are prepared to pay a little extra for ceramic braces. Apart from being barely noticeable and superbly effective, another reason why patients opt for ceramic braces is that they are said to sit more comfortably on gums.

Lingual braces may be a surprise to many patients, especially because of where they sit in the mouth – behind teeth. It is this design feature that affords their invisibility status – no one can see them positioned behind the teeth.

Lingual braces have been used to great success in treating a variety of dental issues that involve complex movements. Patients who can opt for lingual braces include those with dental rotation problems, the need to close the gap between extraction spaces, as well as those who require adjusting the height of their teeth.

For image-conscious patients with orthodontic issues, invisible braces have the potential to offer life-changing benefits. To find out more or for professional consultation with a friendly dentist, why not give us a call at Clapham South Dental Centre to set up an appointment? Our reception team will find a date and time that is convenient for you.

Are you thinking about getting clear braces in Clapham?

Clear braces have become very popular in recent years with more and more people opting for them over other methods of straightening. But are clear braces for everyone and what are the fundamental differences between clear braces in Clapham and metal braces? When you visit your dentist they will be able to explain which plan will be right for you but in the meantime.clear-braces-clapham

Let’s compare clear braces to metal ones

Firstly, what are clear braces? The phrase clear braces actually refer to two types of braces: either they are made from a clear, rigid plastic that fits around your teeth in perfectly moulded trays or from a ceramic bracket that is blended to the colour of your teeth.

The major benefit of both these styles is it makes the process of straightening far less visually invasive so if you’ve chosen to straighten as an adult this can be a more socially subtle path to take. With metal braces they are only offered in grey or silver, if you would like to opt for the ceramic option braces can be made in any colour. Traditional metal braces are made up of metal brackets that are placed on top of your teeth using a special dental cement they are then bound together with wires and small rubber bands.

There is also a level of comfort wearing aligners that doesn’t come with metal braces. They are removable so you don’t need to worry about eating and food becoming trapped, and as the plastic is flush to the teeth there is no rubbing on the gums.

Comparing oral hygiene in braces

Clear braces in Clapham adjust teeth to be perfectly straight and result in a better teeth alignment. When teeth are perfectly straight it means they are easier to clean and less likely to build up tartar and plaque. When the teeth line has overlaps or crooked teeth it provides perfect areas for germs to build up which can lead to gum disease.

Braces apart from the clear aligner style are well known for triggering problems with your dental hygiene. They can cause inflammation and make maintaining a thorough cleaning difficult as brushing and flossing can become really difficult to do well. Metal braces can also rub against the skin in your mouth leading to sores.

What are the benefits of metal braces?

Metal braces are great at correcting lots of different types of alignment issues and there have been new technological developments such as heat-activated wires which can lead to even quicker changes.

Although they are not completely pain-free they are second-least painful compared to other options. With the teeth moving quicker it also means the discomfort can subside quicker.

They are less costly than clear braces in Clapham – when thinking about braces it could come down to cost and the benefit of metal braces is they are far less costly than aligners but have the same level of results.

When you visit your dentist at Clapham South Dental Center your dentist will be able to talk through the best option for you.

How do I make my Invisalign in Clapham sparkle and gleam?

You took the plunge and finally had your Invisalign aligners fitted. You’re really happy with how natural and comfortable they are, but now you want to make sure you keep them sparkling clean and taken care of, so they keep up their invisible appearance. We at Clapham South Dental Centre have collected all our top tips to help maintain your new aligners.invisalign-clapham

An Invisalign recap

Invisalign Clapham is a type of aligner used to straighten out crooked teeth, space out overcrowding or pull back overbites. They consist of a clear tray that is made from durable, rigid plastic. You will need to wear your aligners for 22 hours per day, then once the treatment is complete you’ll receive retainers which will normally have to be worn overnight for a certain period. The treatment is very subtle and perfect for adults with orthodontic problems who want a discreet way to treat their issues.

What is the best way to clean my aligners?

Just like your natural teeth, your Invisalign Clapham will need to be looked after assiduously. You will need to be cleaning the aligners every time you clean your teeth. To clean them you will need a toothbrush, toothpaste, aligner cleaning tablets and a bowl of tepid or cold water.

What’s the process of a good clean?

First, you need to rinse your aligners under lukewarm water – be sure to avoid hot water as this can cause heat damage to them. Secondly, you need to soak them in the special Invisalign cleaning fluid. We recommend leaving it for between five to ten minutes, but always double-check the instructions. Once ready, take your toothbrush and brush along the lining of the device both inside and out of the shell. Be extremely careful when doing this as too much pressure on the plastic could cause a break.

When you’ve completed the brushing you need to check over your aligner for any leftover build-up of plaque or tartar. This can appear cloudy or white and it will also be stubborn to remove. Much like how plaque or tartar will cause damage and infection to your teeth and gums, it will begin to rot your aligner and can lead to the plastic becoming fragile and eventually breaking. It’s also worth noting regular cleaning will also mean your aligners stay odour free.

Extra top tips for aligner use

Whenever you take out your Invisalign aligners you need to make sure you clean your teeth before putting them back in again. If there is any food or drink trapped under them it will cause serious damage to your teeth over long periods.

Keep your Invisalign Clapham clean and safe – always try to keep them in their box or in a glass of water. You don’t want any dirt to get onto the surface without you knowing.

Avoid drinking anything other than water when wearing your device. Tea, coffee, squash, juice or alcohol will all leave your aligners looking stained and discoloured and your once beautiful clear solution to straight teeth will appear less than squeaky clean.