Author: Clapham South Dental Centre

How long is the entire procedure for dental implants in Clapham?

Getting dental implants in Clapham is a lengthy procedure, but absolutely necessary if you are missing a tooth. However, that doesn’t mean that you will be living with an unsightly gap for months on end while you wait for your body to do its part of the treatment. There are various ways we at Clapham South Dental Centre can save your image and help you remain confident, while you wait for the treatment to be complete.

dental-implants-claphamThe procedure explained

Implants are often the best dental restoration option if you have lost one or more teeth, the procedure is approved by the FDA and involves surgery and recovery time. Once you have been to a consultation and are approved for surgery, your dentist will remove any bits of damaged tooth that remain or in some cases, if a tooth needs to first be removed because it’s damage is irreparable, they will perform that surgery first.

Once the area is properly cleaned, a bone grafting procedure may need to take place, if it is necessary, in order to create the correct space in which to anchor the implant, once this part of the jaw has been properly prepared then the titanium implant is set in place. Titanium is used as it is an alloy that is least likely to be rejected by the body, in some cases a special coating is used to encourage bone growth.

The area over the newly placed implant is covered for protection and a temporary crown or denture is set in place in the gap to match your other teeth, while you wait for your body to heal. This temporary covering may be secured to other teeth without damaging them, ensuring that your day to day life is not affected by a gap.

Why it takes a while

The surgery for dental implants in Clapham only takes a couple of hours, but then it is up to your body to do the rest of the work. This regeneration takes time depending on each person, as your jawbone needs to grow around the implant to secure it in place, as it would a regular tooth. This bone growing process is called osseointegration and depending on the age and health of each person’s bones the time it takes may vary.

Once this healing time is complete, your dentist may need to place an abutment to the implant, this is the piece that the final crown will be secured to. It involves a small surgery where the gum is reopened and the abutment is attached.

The final result

Your dental implants in Clapham will finally be complete when a permanent false tooth, crown or bridge of teeth is attached to the implant. These will be custom created to match your other teeth in size, shape, and colour and look as believable as real teeth, as the porcelain used in their creation mimic a natural tooth’s translucent appearance. By practicing good oral hygiene, maintaining these new teeth is as simple as maintaining your own, the implants are designed to last almost a lifetime and may very well do so for you.

Wondering if invisible braces are for you? Five facts about the Damon System at Clapham South Dental Centre

When anybody hears the word brace, the first thing that springs to mind is an image of the traditional metal or orthodontic brace. And of course, if they hear the word brace while in the dental chair, panic often follows!

invisible-braces-claphamMany people understandably do not want to undertake any treatment that is likely to impact on how they look, eat or feel about themselves, and so many people are not overly eager to start treatment with any kind of aligner.

Luckily, thanks to modern dentistry, there are now multiple braces that offer both discretion and effectiveness, known colloquially as invisible or clear braces. With many of these braces also offering lifestyle-friendly options, such as being removable and easy to clean, it is easy to see why so many people are eager to try them!

At Clapham South Dental Centre, our team has helped many patients achieve their perfect smile through the use of invisible braces in Clapham and could help you too! Our cosmetic dentists are able to offer suitable patients treatments with either the world-famous Invisalign or Damon System, both designed to reverse specific and complex orthodontic issues. Perfect!

Of course, many people have heard of Invisalign braces, but what about the Damon System? Here, we discuss five facts about these invisible braces in Clapham, to give you a broader view of all adult based orthodontics.

They are more comfortable

If you have ever met a person wearing an orthodontic brace, you have probably heard them talk about discomfort. Understandably, such complaints can put a damper on any orthodontic procedure, but with the Damon System, comfort is something that is not in short supply!

Designed to minimise rubbing and pressure, these invisible braces in Clapham can offer you a more pleasant experience while wearing them, allowing you to get on with life pain-free. Brilliant!

They are fast

Treatment with traditional orthodontic braces can take upward of two years to complete and is often longer for adults. Thanks to the targeted approach of the Damon System, many patients are able to complete treatment in less time, with the average treatment being around twenty months, meaning that the entire process is faster and cheaper.

They are less inconvenient

Although this brace is fitted (attached to the teeth), it requires less maintenance than a regular brace, meaning fewer trips to the dentist to ensure it is working. It does not require tightening, meaning there will be less inconvenience overall during the course of the treatment.

They are aesthetically pleasing

While the Damon System is a fitted brace, it is designed to be visually discreet.

Indeed, the wires that go across the brackets are thinner than traditional ones and the brackets are either clear or enamel coloured, to minimise the overall appearance of the brace.

They are easy to fit

And finally, the Damon System is easier to initially fit than other braces, meaning you won’t be stuck in a dental chair for hours while our team tried to attach it. Perfect!

What are clear braces, and do I need them?

Clear Braces in Clapham could be a valid treatment option to consider if you are not happy with the appearance of your smile. In recent years there have been many advances in this area of dental treatment, which makes it easier than ever to improve your smile. This type of dental treatment is more accessible and affordable than ever. Here at Clapham South Dental Centre, we believe that everyone should have the access to sculpt their perfect smile. This form of dental treatment can come in a couple of different forms, fixed bracketed braces or removable aligners can be used to straighten the appearance of your teeth. Many of our patients have been impressed by the nature of this treatment being invisible. Clear brackets and wire braces are used on teeth in the same manner as traditional braces. Other forms of clear braces, such as Invisalign work in a different way, these series of clear aligners fit over the teeth.clear-braces-clapham

What is the procedure?

If you decide to go ahead with Clear Braces in Clapham, our team members here at Clapham South Dental Centre, will be more than happy to assist you. Different kinds of braces can work better for different people with different sets of dental needs. You will work with your dentist to discover what the best option is for you. Traditional braces pull teeth into the desired position, whereas Invisalign gently forces the teeth into their correct position. Other versions of clear braces, such as the Inman Aligner, use two aligner bows that gently move and guide teeth into their desired position. These different treatments all have a specific goal in relation to your teeth and your dentist will work with you to suggest the best course of treatment. It should be noted here that clear braces have a limited capacity, and therefore can only be used on mild to moderate cases. If your teeth require a different sort of treatment, your dentist will be more than happy to suggest this.

What are the benefits?

Clear Braces in Clapham can offer a series of benefits to their users. Many of our patients have reported that this treatment is relatively painless, some mild discomfort can be found with the added pressure but most people report that it is reasonably comfortable. There are many benefits to this treatment aside from just simply a straighter smile. Your smile can become more aesthetically pleasing. Your self-confidence can be boosted dramatically. A healthier smile can lead to a healthier mouth overall. Gum disease and the risk of damage to teeth can be reduced. Better digestion can also be promoted as the teeth have better functionality. During the process of this dental treatment, it is important to look after your oral health, this can be done through regular brushing, flossing and attending regular dental appointments. Your dentist will always be on hand to ensure that you are receiving the highest standard of care.

Improving your smile with Invisalign in Clapham

Invisalign in Clapham is a viable treatment option for those who want to improve the look of their smile. This treatment uses a series of clear aligners to gradually move your teeth into a better position, it is convenient and achieves brilliant results. Many people are unhappy with the appearance of their smile, this could be for a number of different reasons. Many people’s smiles are simply not straight and look uneven. The proportion of your teeth and your smile’s width can also be an issue. Gaps between the teeth can be another problem that people become unhappy about. The overall appearance of the face as a result of the structure of the mouth is also something that people can be unsatisfied with. The colour of teeth alongside gum health is something that people also consider. Invisalign can be used to improve many of these areas and so, can have a positive impact on your self-esteem concerning your appearance.invisalign-clapham

What is the procedure?

If you decide that Invisalign in Clapham could be the correct dental work option for you then there are a series of steps involved in the procedure. The first step determines your suitability, unfortunately, not everyone can benefit from this process and it is important that we determine your suitability early on in the process. We will use the Case Assessment to determine this, which uses a set of photos. The second step is taken once it has been determined that you are suitable for the treatment, this involves preparation work. This is done through x-rays, scans, and impressions of the teeth. Using the information collected we will create a digital treatment plan. This allows us to show you what your end results could look like. The third step involves the aligners. You will be instructed on the order to wear this series of aligners. You will be expected to change out the aligner every 1-2 weeks. You can wear your aligners all day, however, they are removable which allows you to maintain a high level of oral hygiene as well as enjoying your usual diet. The final step involves being invited back to the practice every 4-6 weeks. We will monitor your progress and keep you up to date with the correct aligners. At the end of the treatment, you will need to wear a retainer in order to maintain your smile.

What are the benefits of this treatment?

If you decide that Invisalign in Clapham is the correct choice for you, there are a series of benefits that you could gain. With the use of this treatment, you can reduce your risk of gum disease. Issues with bite can also be corrected, this includes open, over and cross bites. Issues with overcrowded teeth can also be alleviated. This treatment is fast and relatively painless. Many patients are happy with the convenient and comfortable nature of this treatment. This treatment is mostly invisible to other people, so you can undergo the treatment without others knowing you are. The aligners are removable allowing you to properly clean them at the same time as not having to alter your diet. The main benefit of this treatment is the self-confidence it gives you.

Do you have missing teeth? Get dental implants in Clapham!

Dental Implants in Clapham are a viable option for those who seek to replace lost teeth. This treatment can be used to improve the overall look and structure of the mouth, missing teeth can be replaced, improving the look of your smile. This treatment is classed as restorative dentistry. The implant is placed at the jaw bone and crowns can then be built up on top. These crowns can fit perfectly as they can be moulded to match your other teeth. This is also true of the colour of the new crowns, these crowns come in natural-looking shades so the appearance of your smile can be uninterrupted. They also act as functional teeth and so can help you gain back the full usage of your mouth. These implants can be long-lasting providing that they are well looked after. This includes keeping up with regular brushing and flossing. Regularly attending dental check-up appointments can also help with the long-lasting nature of these implants.dental-implants-clapham

What is the procedure?

Dental Implants in Clapham follows a carefully planned procedure to allow the most effective results. If you choose to have an implant fitted you will need to participate in a consultation, where you will receive an individual treatment plan. This treatment is specific to you and the procedure that you will undergo. Your dentist will answer any questions that you may have and outline any costs and the expected time taken for the procedure. On the second appointment, you will be fitted with the implant, provided that you have enough bone. Time is then needed for your bone to fuse with the new implant, this process can take around six months. When you return after these 6 months the final crown, bridge or denture is used to complete the work. If you do not have enough bone for the process to take place, artificial bone can be used – however, this does lengthen the time the procedure takes.

What are the benefits of this treatment?

Dental Implants in Clapham can offer you many different benefits. The replaced teeth act like natural teeth and so you can gain function of your mouth again. Your remaining teeth are not damaged during the process and there is no pressure, making it an accessible option. These implants can also offer other benefits besides just convenience. The overall appearance of the mouth is improved, by looking and feeling just like your own teeth. Because the overall structure of the mouth will be improved your speech and level of comfort can be improved. You can also find that eating becomes easier with the improved structure of the mouth. Oral health can be improved as teeth and gums can become easier to clean. This treatment option can be durable for many different patients. Many of our patients have been very happy with the results of this treatment. They have reported feeling much better about themselves and their smile following the treatment as their self-esteem had been boosted as a result of a better appearance for their smile.

Looking for invisible braces in Clapham?

Invisible braces in Clapham is an option for patients who want to improve the look of their smile. Here at Clapham South Dental Centre, we believe everyone should be happy with their smile. These braces come in a variety of shapes and sizes, they can be removable appliances or fixed. The main benefit of this treatment is that it is invisible to others, therefore you don’t have to tell anyone else that you are undergoing treatment. Many patients are dissatisfied with the appearance of their smile, this can be for a multitude of reasons which this treatment plan can be used to remedy. This treatment can move your teeth into a more desirable position. This can have a significant impact on not only the appearance of your smile but also impact on other areas of your overall health. In this article, we will run through the procedure of this treatment before discussing the fantastic benefits that you could be exposed to if you decide to go ahead with this treatment.invisible-braces-clapham

What is the procedure of this treatment?

If you choose to go through with this treatment option of invisible braces in Clapham then you can expect to have a straighter, healthier smile. Many patients are happy with the results of this treatment and have been happy with the specific set of braces that can be removed. This means that the braces do not have to be fixed allowing the teeth to be moved into the correct position without having to cut certain items out of your diet. The braces work by gently forcing the teeth into a different position. This treatment is limited to mild to moderate issues with the teeth and can be limited to the front of the mouth. It becomes increasingly important to have a good level of oral hygiene when having this treatment. You will need to brush your teeth and gums between meals and ensure that your mouth is clean before putting removable braces back in.

What are the benefits?

Invisible braces in Clapham can be a good choice for many different patients of a variety of ages. As the braces are invisible it removes a stigma around dental work using braces. Many people can feel self conscious about using braces to correct the look of their smile, using invisible braces can be an alternative to traditional braces as others will not notice that you are undergoing the treatment. Having your teeth moved into a better position can help reduce the risk of gum disease and chipping of the teeth. Having teeth moved into a better position can also promote better digestion. Your teeth being well aligned would make it easier to cut up food and so allow for easier digestion. This just goes to show that this dental treatment can have a multitude of benefits that are not only limited to the mouth. One of the main benefits associated with this treatment is that it can improve the self-confidence of the user. If you think that you could benefit from this treatment, we can begin to work together to improve the look of your smile.

Been told you aren’t suited for Invisalign? Five reasons to try Damon braces today!

When you decide to undertake a brace as an adult, it can feel more than a bit intimidating.

clear-braces-claphamOn the one hand, you are paying for a treatment that may affect your outward appearance for a while, but on the other hand, you have had enough of putting up with your crooked smile.

Luckily, when you choose an adult orthodontic treatment, you will be happy to know that the majority of options are either clear aligners or invisible braces. Specifically designed to be discreet and easy to maintain, these options fit easily around your life and don’t require excessive numbers of dental trips. Perfect!

At Clapham South Dental, our dental team is proud of our range of adult orthodontic options, which includes clear braces in Clapham like the Damon system. Designed for misalignments that require a bit more work than an invisible brace can handle, these braces can help correct a more complex dental situation in less time than you might think!

But what are the advantages of clear braces in Clapham? Is the Damon system suitable for you? Read on to find out!

Better results

As the old saying goes: ‘The proof of the pudding is in the eating.’

While we could focus on how these clear braces in Clapham work, you are probably more concerned about the final result; we don’t blame you!

The Damon system has an exceptionally high success rate long term (5 years post-treatment), over 97% of patients who have used these braces are happy with how their teeth look and have experienced no unwanted movement. If someone told you that there was a 97% chance you could win the lottery, we bet you would buy a ticket!

Reduction in treatment time

Of course, the adult world is very short on time.

With work, children and other commitments, we know you don’t have the free time to be going backward and forwards to see our dentist for months and months.

If you are suitable, the Damon clear brace requires minimal check-ups with our team and uses a different technique for realigning your teeth. There is no excess adjusting or tightening required from our team, so you are free to get on with your life. Brilliant!

Applicable to complex cases

While other aligners like Invisalign are great, they often fall short when it comes to more complex dental issues.

If you have a more severe misalignment or orthodontic issue, the Damon system is more equipped to correct it, meaning a better long term outcome for your smile!

Comfortable

As mentioned earlier, this brace does not use force (tightening) to achieve its results and therefore, it is more comfortable for everyday wear.

While there may be some initial adjustment after it has been fitted,  during the treatment, it should not create any discomfort. If it does, call us immediately for an assessment!

Enhanced facial aesthetics

If you have misaligned teeth, it is likely your facial appearance may be affected too.

Using the Damon clear brace will straighten your teeth and improve the aesthetics of your face.

Have you heard of the health benefits of Invisalign braces? The top four from Clapham South Dental Centre

There are many issues to be had with teeth that are misaligned; they are harder to brush, they get food stuck in them easily and, of course, they impact on your smile and confidence.invisalign-braces-clapham

Even if you have had crooked teeth all your life, it can feel like a huge step to approach a dentist to do something about it; after all, cosmetic dental options are new to many people and of course, what is new may be considered with trepidation.

But before you decide that any cosmetic dental work is purely, well, cosmetic, there are many health benefits to be had too. Unlike other cosmetic procedures, such as dermal fillers, realigning your teeth can have great benefits for your health too.

At Clapham South Dental, our team is able to offer our suitable patients a range of adult orthodontic options, including Invisalign in Clapham. This world-famous brace is removable, fast-acting and is perfect to fit around your busy adult life. It can help correct a variety of orthodontic issues, such as crowding, protrusions, and even overbites! Perfect!

But are there any health benefits of undertaking treatment with Invisalign in Clapham? Read on to find out!

No more headaches!

It has been known for a while in dentistry that if you have misaligned teeth, you are more likely to suffer from both headaches and migraines. Inconvenient to say the least!

The reason for this is simple; teeth that do not fit together well are more prone to being ground together as we sleep. This, in turn, causes tired, sore muscles in the jaw, which impacts on the neck and head. Ergo, you will have a headache when you wake up.

As Invisalign in Clapham realigns your teeth, the nocturnal grinding will reduce and with it, so will the headaches and migraines. Perfect!

Better digestion

We have already mentioned that teeth that do not sit together are more likely to grind against each other in an uncomfortable fashion; this also occurs when we chew food.

However, a set of misaligned teeth are not able to grind and chew food correctly, meaning that once it is swallowed, our bodies find it harder to absorb the nutrients. We also have more issues with digestion, like heartburn, acid reflux and bloating.

Realigning your teeth with an invisible brace prevents incorrect chewing and enables for more comfortable and effective digestion of food.

Improved oral hygiene

Crooked, gapped and crowded teeth are harder to clean effectively.

Teeth that are not clean are more prone to both gum disease and tooth decay, simply because pockets of bacteria in the mouth are missed.

Straightening your smile will reduce your risk of both oral decay and periodontal disease, meaning your mouth will look great and be healthier too.

Temporomandibular joint disorder

A fairly rare disorder that can be helped and partially corrected with an invisible brace is temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

This disorder causes pain, clicking and even bone erosion in the jaw and is caused by misalignment of the teeth or excessive crowding.

These are just a few reasons to consider Invisalign at our practice.

Forgot to ask a question at your oral implant fitting? Top 5 FAQs answered by Clapham South Dental

So, you did it.

You took the plunge and got oral implants fitted; good for you!

dental-implants-claphamNot only have you invested in a cosmetic option that will improve your smile, but oral implants have been linked to improved oral health, better digestion, and improved speech. What’s not to love about that?

As you leave your dental surgery post-fitting, you may have some questions that you either forgot to ask your dentist or have only just thought of. After all, you have undertaken a large procedure and, of course, you want to know how to keep the implants, your gums and your mouth healthy for the next few months, so you can have the prosthetic teeth fitted.

If you came to Clapham South Dental to have your dental implants in Clapham, then you chose an experienced dental team who can help you through the next few months with confidence and experience. Our team has fitted thousands of oral implants and are knowledgeable about the healing process and beyond.

But, what are some of the most frequent questions we are asked by our patients about dental implants in Clapham? Read on to find out!

Can I brush my teeth after the fitting?

This is a common question we are asked and, as odd as it may sound, our team will recommend that you do not brush the implant site until the stitches have healed.

While this may seem counterintuitive, brushing the area may cause additional inflammation and even cause the stitches to open, creating further complications.

If there are any natural teeth in your mouth, brush them as you normally would, but be very careful. To keep the implants and the surrounding site clean, gargle salt water as required. This will also speed up the healing and reduce the chance of infection.

Will it be painful?

You may experience some discomfort after having, but this should be minimal.

Sensations akin to those of having had extractions or root canals are common, along with some soreness of the gum. dental implants in Clapham

What should I look out for?

Keep an eye out for excessive inflammation and discolouration at the implant site. These are indicative of an infection. Look out for swelling to the face, jaw or neck, as these are also symptoms of an infection that requires urgent treatment.

If you are in an excessive amount of pain, call our team immediately.

Can I smoke or drink after they are fitted?

Once fitted, do not smoke any substances or drink alcohol for two weeks minimum.

To avoid discomfort, do not consume any hot liquids, such as soups or teas and avoid ice-based products too.

Is there any food I should avoid?

Once your implants are fitted, avoid eating spicy foods like curries; these will aggravate your gums and encourage inflammation.

Avoid eating hard foods, like fruits and raw veg, and eat lukewarm foods that are soft and easy to chew; additional pressure caused by hard foods may cause the implants to come loose or detach completely.

Heard the buzz about invisible braces? A brief introduction to our braces at Clapham South Dental

In the world of modern dentistry, it seems that what was once considered impossible is now possible.

invisible-braces-claphamIn decades gone by, many dental patients wished that there were fixed, stable teeth that could replace lost ones and now, dental implants are used across the globe to do just that. In a similar vein, if you needed braces as an adult in the past, you had the choice of either large, metal ones or none at all; hardly a choice with great appeal!

As with the replacement of teeth, there is now a modern solution to correcting orthodontic issues in adults, in the form of clear braces and invisible aligners. With brand names like Invisalign, the Inman aligner, the Damon system and Six Month Smiles, you can now achieve a straighter smile as an adult, without resorting to heavy orthodontic treatments.

At Clapham South Dental Centre, our dentists can offer suitable patients both clear and invisible braces in Clapham. We have used these aligners to help thousands of patients get a straighter, healthier smile and, with the different braces we can offer, you could get a straighter grin in as little as six months! How great is that?

Want to know a bit more about the clear and invisible braces in Clapham that our team can offer? Read on!

How do they work?

Firstly, you are probably curious to know how clear and invisible braces in Clapham work.

Let’s start with how our first brace, Invisalign, moves and realigns teeth.

Invisalign

Treatment with Invisalign consists of a set of clear, plastic trays, which are custom-fitted to your teeth and will need to be changed, on average, every two weeks.

But don’t worry! Our team at Clapham South won’t need to stick this aligner to your teeth; it is removable and once one tray is loose, you move on to the next one in the set. It’s that simple!

However, not all patients are suitable for Invisalign due to either their clinical presentation or their age; as this brace needs to be worn for a minimum of twenty-two hours a day to work, our team is reluctant to offer this treatment to younger patients who may not commit to this.

Similarly, if you have a severe misalignment or spacing, then you may be more suited to a traditional orthodontic brace.

Damon system

You may be wondering what the difference is between an invisible aligner and a clear brace.

Simply put, a clear brace is fitted to the teeth in the same way a traditional brace is and is not removable.

The Damon system uses a clear brace, which has clear or tooth coloured brackets and a metal wire to realign your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, it does not use force (tightening) to straighten your teeth, but uses a slide mechanism to allow your teeth to move more freely into the desired position. Due to this, our team may prefer to use the Damon system brace over Invisalign aligners if you have a more complex clinical presentation.