Author: Clapham South Dental Centre

How to make your smile tow the line with Invisalign!

If you have misaligned teeth, you may feel self-conscious about smiling or have difficulties with chewing your food or speaking clearly. At Clapham South Dental Centre, we want our patients to feel confident about their healthy and attractive smiles, that function to the optimum ability. With Invisalign Clapham, you could have an improved smile in as little as 6 to 18 months. Getting your teeth in line can be discreet, comfortable and convenient thanks to the technology used with this treatment and we understand how much this can mean to our patients, both in their teens and adult years. invisalign-clapham

Could Invisalign be right for me?

Invisalign Clapham is a bespoke treatment for patients with mild to moderate alignment issues. Whether you have crossbite, over or underbite, crowded or gapped teeth, Invisalign could be the treatment you need to get your teeth in order. To find out if this is the right treatment for you, you will need to have a consultation with our dentist to ascertain what your alignment issues are. We will examine your mouth and we may also take X-rays to determine what your treatment options are. We can have an in-depth chat about what the options entail, so that you can make an informed decision. If Invisalign is offered, then you could find that this is the most convenient and practical treatment option for you.

Why we offer Invisalign

The first thing to understand about Invisalign is that this is not a fixed appliance. Invisalign is a system that consists of removable plastic aligners. You can remove the aligners for a couple of hours a day, allowing you to continue brushing your teeth and flossing, without having to try and contend with anything in your mouth. You can also remove the aligners to consume food and drink, removing the need for cleaning your aligners after food. The aligners are made to measure your mouth using iTero technology – a digital scan that can also be used to create an animation showing you what your smile will be like once the treatment is completed. The aligners should be comfortable to wear and you will only need to change them every couple of weeks and we can provide you with enough to last you for 6 weeks. As you wear the aligners, they will push the teeth into the correct position and nobody else should be able to see them as only your teeth will be on show. The plastic is transparent, which allows for a discreet and convenient experience, as you won’t have to take them out while you attend a meeting or go to school. Invisalign is a treatment that is designed to make your life as easy as can be, whilst getting the smile you’ve always wanted.

Invisalign for the family

If you are a teenager considering Invisalign, we offer Invisalign Teen, which is designed specifically for teenagers. We also offer Invisalign Lite, which is for addressing mild alignment issues and can sometimes achieve results more quickly than Invisalign Clapham for other mild to moderate alignment issues. By coming to visit us at Clapham South Dental Centre, we will be able to explore the treatment options with you and help you to achieve teeth that are as straight as they should be. Let’s make them tow the line now!

The Damon System: a guide to these clear braces from our team

When it comes to straightening your teeth as an adult, there are more than a few options available. clear-braces-clapham

There are the traditional fitted braces and aligners, and then there is the new system of braces that are fitted but often faster and more comfortable than traditional options. This is because the brackets are adapted to work on a self-ligating system, which reduces the pressure.

At Clapham South Dental Centre, we are experts in all manner of orthodontic tools; whether you are looking for an invisible aligner or clear braces Clapham, we will be able to prescribe the right option for you.

Here, our team will introduce you to one of the most popular types of clear braces Clapham that we use – the Damon System. So, read on to learn more!

What is the Damon System?

The Damon System is one of the most popular types of clear braces Clapham that we use. It employs self-ligating brackets, which means the wire is held in place by a small clip instead of elastic bands. This allows for less friction and pressure on the teeth, which can lead to fewer adjustments and a faster treatment time. The Damon System also uses a unique sliding mechanism, which allows the teeth to move more freely and comfortably into their proper positions. So, it is not as pressure-based as regular braces.

How long does the Damon System take to work?

The treatment time for the Damon System can vary depending on the individual case. However, on average, treatment with the Damon System can take about 6 months to a year less than traditional braces.

Our team will be able to give you a better idea of how long it will take for this brace to work for you, so feel free to book a consultation today!

Is the Damon System a fitted brace?

Yes, the Damon System is a fitted brace used to straighten teeth. The brackets and wire apply gentle pressure to the teeth to move them into the desired position. The treatment is customised for each patient, and our team will oversee each stage to ensure that your oral health remains in good condition and that the brace is not causing discomfort.

Can anyone wear the Damon brace?

The Damon System is suitable for many people who require orthodontic treatment, but it may not be the best option for everyone. It is typically recommended for patients with mild to moderate malocclusion, although in some cases, it can be used for more severe cases as well. It is also suitable for both children and adults. However, people with certain dental conditions, such as severe crowding or jaw discrepancies, may not be suitable candidates for the Damon System. Therefore, it’s always best to seek out a dental team that is familiar with this brace (like ours!) to determine if this treatment is the right choice for you.

Will I need a retainer afterwards?

Yes, you will. Whether you have had a fitted brace or an aligner, you will need to wear a retainer afterwards. This will prevent your teeth from moving back to their original positions.

FAQs about the Damon System invisible braces answered

Have you ever heard of the Damon System?

This is a brace that allows patients to have their teeth straightened without all of the inconveniences typically associated with regular metal braces.

And when you come to see our team at Clapham South Dental Centre, they will be more than happy to assess any orthodontic issues that you have and will be able to suggest whether you would be better suited for an aligner or invisible braces Clapham.

So, here, our team answers 5 commonly asked quinvisible-braces-claphamestions about invisible braces Clapham.

How long does the Damon System take to work?

The length of treatment with these invisible braces Clapham can vary depending on the individual case, but it typically takes between 6 and 30 months to achieve the desired results. Factors that can affect the treatment length include the misalignment’s severity, the patient’s age, and compliance with the treatment plan.

Is the Damon System more expensive than traditional braces?

Usually, yes.

As the Damon System is a type of self-ligating brace, this means that the brackets and wires used in the system do not require traditional elastic or metal ties. This type of brace is often considered more expensive than traditional metal braces. Still, the cost can vary depending on the specific treatment plan and the location of the orthodontic practice. It’s best to consult with an orthodontist to get a more accurate cost estimate.

Are there any side effects with the Damon System?

As with any type of orthodontic treatment, there can be some risks and side effects associated with the Damon System.

Some common side effects of this brace include soreness or discomfort in the mouth and jaw during the first few days after the braces are placed or adjusted. You may also have difficulty speaking or eating for a short period after the braces are placed or adjusted. As well as this, there may be a higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease if proper oral hygiene is not maintained. So, be sure to keep your teeth clean!

Can the Damon System be used to correct overbites or underbites?

Yes, the Damon System can correct overbites and underbites, which are common types of malocclusion.

But, as with most things related to orthodontic alignments, this will depend on the severity of the issue being treated. Other things will also need to be considered, such as whether or not you need to have molar teeth straightened as well. In this case, it may be more suitable for you to wear a standard fitted brace, but our team will be able to advise you.

Are Damon System braces more comfortable than traditional braces?

Yes, it is generally accepted by most patients that Damon System braces are more comfortable than other types of brace.

Many people find the Damon System to be more comfortable than traditional metal braces. This is because the Damon System uses self-ligating brackets, which do not require traditional elastic or metal ties to hold the wire in place. This eliminates the need for regular tightening appointments, which can be uncomfortable for some patients. Additionally, the Damon System uses a special type of wire that is designed to move teeth more efficiently and with less force, which can result in less discomfort during treatment.

Considering dental implants? 5 things you need to know

When you are looking to close a gap in your teeth, your online research will have undoubtedly led you to oral implants.

Oral implants are a great way to restore missing teeth and the strength of your bite all in one go. dental-implants-clapham

And, when you come to see our team at Clapham South Dental Centre, we will be more than happy to discuss your suitability for dental implants Clapham.

So, if you are considering having dental implants Clapham fitted, what are some of the things that you will need to know beforehand? Read on to find out!

The fitting may be spread out

When it comes to fitting dental implants Clapham, you may have more than one fitted.

So, to prevent your mouth from becoming overly sore, our team may decide to spread the fitting out over several appointments.

There are different implant types

The most commonly used type of implant is an endosteal implant. This is a small, titanium screw which is affixed to your jaw, provided that you have enough jawbone and provided that there isn’t an underlying health issue like osteoporosis.

But, if you don’t have enough jawbone, there are other types of implants you can use. This will include subperiosteal implants, zygomatic implants and mini implants. So, if you aren’t suitable for traditional options, don’t worry!

The fitting won’t be uncomfortable

It is easy to assume that when it comes to dental surgery it will be uncomfortable.

However, with oral implants, our team can assure you that during the fitting, we will use strong anaesthetic or even sedation if needed. Once the fitting is over, we will also recommend over-the-counter pain relief for you to use, which will prevent discomfort and promote faster healing. As a general rule, we will advise against the use of blood-thinning agents like ibuprofen and aspirin.

They can be lifelong

You may have read that oral implants will fall out after a few years. This can happen, but it is rare and usually only occurs if you have not been maintaining good oral hygiene.

If you brush your teeth a minimum of twice a day, floss, rinse with mouthwash and attend check-ups with our team twice a year, your oral implants will likely last up to or over 15 years and may even last the rest of your life.

You should also refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol after having implants fitted, as this can shorten their lifespan too.

They aren’t only for older people

It goes without saying that many people assume that those who have missing teeth are people who are older.

But, usually due to decay, gum disease, sports injuries or other factors, many people under the age of 40 may be missing one or more of their permanent teeth.

So, if you think oral implants are only for older people, you are mistaken, there are many younger people who are having oral implants fitted and restoring their smile using this efficient and long-lasting method.

If you want to know more about oral implants, call our team at Clapham South Dental Centre today.

Signs that your Invisalign aligners aren’t working as planned

It seems straightforward enough in theory. invisalign-clapham

You have an aligner fitted, wear it for 2 weeks, change it to the next in the series when needed and then boom. After around 3 to 6 months, your teeth will be straight. Easy!

But, there are rare occasions when there may be an underlying issue with an aligner; it may be due to poor fitting, poor usage or other dental health issues. So, if you have started wearing an aligner, it is best to know what to look out for.

When you come to Clapham South Dental Centre, our team will be able to assess your suitability for aligners like Invisalign Clapham, and we will also help you through the realignment process and the treatment of any potential issues that may occur.

So, with that in mind, what are some of the key signs that there may be an issue with your Invisalign Clapham?

Excessive discomfort

OK, so when it comes to moving teeth, there is going to be some discomfort.

But, if when wearing Invisalign Clapham, you notice that there is an excessive level of discomfort in the jaw, in the teeth or the gums, then you should book an appointment with our team. This could be a part of the realignment process, or it could indicate an underlying issue with your mouth or the fit of the aligner. A good way to assess this is to look at whether or not the discomfort is keeping you awake at night or whether it is causing you to be distracted during the day. So, if it hurts to keep your aligners in, please call us for an urgent consultation.

Loose aligners

As mentioned before, when you start wearing the aligners, you will notice that when they are first put in your mouth, they will feel tight.

And, as the teeth move over the next couple of weeks, they will become looser.

But if your aligners are consistently loose, even when you first put them in, you will need to see our team for an assessment, as there may be an issue with the aligners being too large. If they are too large, they can’t move your teeth!

Unusual movement

When you have your aligners made, our team will show you how you can expect your teeth to move, so there will be no unpleasant surprises during the process.

So, if you notice that your teeth are moving in a way that was not planned, then you should come in and see our team as soon as you can to have the aligner’s shape reassessed.

Poor tracking

With aligners, tracking refers to how well your aligners are pressed against the teeth.

So, if there are persistent air bubbles or your teeth are not moving as planned, then this can point to an issue with tracking. Our team will usually be able to spot this using photos that you will have taken of your teeth and sent to us via the associated app, so this will not be an issue for very long!

How do invisible braces treat rotated teeth? A step-by-step approach

As a dental practice, we understand the importance of a confident and beautiful smile. One common issue that can affect the appearance of a smile is rotated teeth. But, have no fear, Clapham South Dental Centre are here to help! Clear aligners are a great option for those looking to straighten rotated teeth and improve the appearance of their smile. The treatment process is relatively straightforward and, with the help of a dentist, can produce great results. clear-braces-in-clapham

First, what causes rotated teeth?

Rotated teeth refer to teeth that have turned or twisted out of their normal position. This can occur in any part of the mouth, but is most commonly seen in the front teeth. Rotated teeth can affect both the appearance and function of the mouth, making it difficult to bite and chew food properly.

There are several causes of rotated teeth. One of the most common causes is genetics, as some people are simply predisposed to having rotated teeth. It can also be caused by several other reasons such as crowding of the teeth, trauma or injury to the teeth or jaw, or thumb sucking or prolonged use of a pacifier during childhood. Other reasons for this condition may be early or late loss of baby teeth, habits such as tongue thrusting or mouth breathing, a misaligned bite, or orthodontic treatment that was not performed properly or not maintained.

Step 1: Consultation

The first step in the treatment using clear braces Clapham is to schedule a consultation with our dental practice. During this appointment, we will examine your mouth and take X-rays to assess the current position of your rotated teeth. We will then discuss with you the best treatment plan for your individual needs, also we will discuss the duration of the treatment and any potential side effects.

Step 2: Custom-made trays

Next, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create customised trays. These trays are specifically designed to fit your teeth and will be used to gradually shift them into the desired position. The trays are made of a clear, invisible material that is comfortable to wear and will not affect your speech.

Step 3: Wearing the trays

Once the clear braces Clapham trays have been created, you’ll need to wear them for a certain amount of time each day. The exact amount of time will depend on the complexity of your rotated teeth and the desired outcome. On average, treatment takes around 6-18 months, but some patients may see results even sooner.

Step 4: Adjustment appointments

Throughout the treatment process, you’ll need to schedule regular adjustment appointments with our dentist. These appointments are necessary to ensure that the aligners are still fitting properly and that your teeth are shifting in the desired direction. The dentist will make any necessary adjustments to the trays to ensure that the treatment is progressing as planned.

Step 5: Removal of trays

Finally, once the desired position of your rotated teeth has been achieved, the trays will be removed. Our dentist will then fit you with a retainer, which will help to keep your teeth in their new positions. The retainer will need to be worn for a certain period of time, usually a few months, to ensure that the teeth do not move back to their original position.

Hopefully this guide has provided helpful insight into the process of getting clear braces Clapham, but if you have any more questions please do not hesitate to get in touch today.

Are invisible braces a good solution for severe crowding?

These clear aligners are a popular alternative to traditional metal braces. They are particularly useful for those who have severe crowding of their teeth, as they can straighten and align the teeth without the need for metal brackets and wires. But why are invisible braces Clapham such a good solution for severe crowding? invisible-braces-clapham

What causes severe crowding of teeth?

Tooth overcrowding is a common dental issue that occurs when there is not enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit properly. There are several factors that can contribute to tooth overcrowding, including genetics, habits, larger than average teeth, missing teeth, prolonged use of pacifiers or bottles, early or delayed loss of baby teeth, improper bite or malocclusion or a combination of these factors. Dental professionals, like our team at Clapham South Dental Centre, can help determine the specific cause of tooth overcrowding in an individual case and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

How do clear aligners work?

First, it’s important to understand how these clear aligners work. Clear aligners are custom made to fit the patient’s teeth, and they gradually shift the teeth into their desired position over time. The patient will typically need to wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before switching to the next set. The treatment duration will vary depending on the severity of the crowding and the desired outcome.

What are the benefits of them?

One of the benefits of this system is that they are virtually invisible when worn, making them a popular choice for adults who are self-conscious about traditional metal braces. They are also removable, which means that patients can take them out to eat, brush and floss their teeth, and attend important events. This can make the treatment process more comfortable and convenient for patients.

Another advantage of clear aligners is that they can be used to treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, including severe crowding. They are particularly useful when the crowding is caused by a deep bite, an overbite, or a crossbite. They can also be used in conjunction with other orthodontic treatments to achieve optimal results.

Invisible braces Clapham are also easier to maintain on a daily basis than typical metal braces. With traditional braces, patients have to avoid certain foods and be careful when brushing and flossing their teeth to avoid damaging the brackets and wires. With clear aligners, patients can simply remove them before eating or brushing and flossing their teeth, which can make the treatment process less restrictive and more convenient.

Are there drawbacks?

However, it’s important to note that not everyone is a suitable candidate for such treatment. They may not be beneficial for patients who have severe jaw problems, complex bite issues, or missing teeth. In these cases, traditional metal braces or other orthodontic treatments may be more appropriate.

In conclusion, invisible braces Clapham can be an excellent solution for severe crowding. They are virtually invisible, comfortable, and convenient, and can be used to treat a wide range of orthodontic issues. However, it’s important to consult with a team of dental professionals like ours at Clapham South Dental Centre to determine if these braces are the right option for you.

Are you a good candidate for dental implants? Understanding the procedure

At Clapham South Dental Centre, we understand that if you are thinking about getting dental implants Clapham it can be a big decision. They are a long-term solution for missing or damaged teeth, but it’s important to assess if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. dental-implants-clapham

What are they exactly?

These implants are small titanium posts that are inserted into the jawbone to replace missing or damaged teeth. They provide a secure and stable base for replacement teeth, such as crowns or bridges. The implant fuses with the jawbone over time, creating a strong foundation for the replacement tooth or teeth.

Am I a good candidate?

To be considered a good candidate for these tooth replacement options, you should have healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant. Additionally, it’s important that you don’t smoke or are willing to quit before and during the healing process. Dental implant candidates should be in good overall health and have a commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.

What are the benefits?

Dental implants Clapham offer a number of benefits over traditional tooth replacement options. They look and feel like natural teeth, and because they’re anchored into the jawbone, they offer a secure and stable fit. Additionally, they can help preserve the jawbone, unlike traditional bridges which rely on surrounding teeth for support. They also help to maintain the shape of the face and can improve your overall oral health and speech.

How can I find out if I’m a good candidate for this treatment?

If you think you may be a good candidate, the best way to find out is to schedule a consultation with our dental practice. Our team of professionals will evaluate your oral health, jawbone density and any other factors that may affect the success of the procedure.

What is the process?

The process typically involves several steps. First, our team will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth to determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. If so, we will then place the implant into the jawbone, this process is done under local anaesthesia to minimise any discomfort. After the implant has been placed, the jawbone will need time to heal and fuse with the implant, a process known as osseointegration. This can take several months.

Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, we will then place an abutment, which is a small connector piece, to the implant. This abutment will hold the replacement tooth, such as a crown or bridge, in place. We’ll take impressions of your mouth to ensure that the replacement tooth is the perfect fit.

The final part of the whole process is to set the replacement tooth. This can be done in one appointment or several, depending on the type of replacement tooth you’ve chosen. Once the replacement tooth is in place, you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful, natural-looking smile.

In conclusion

Dental implants Clapham are a great solution for missing or damaged teeth, but it’s important to understand if this procedure is appropriate for you. If you’re considering this treatment, schedule a consultation with our dental practice at Clapham South Dental Centre. Our team of professionals will evaluate your oral health and help you determine the right choice for you.

Here’s a vote for clear braces at Clapham South Dental Centre!

If you have misaligned teeth, but you haven’t addressed the issue, because you’re worrying about other people seeing you wearing braces, then you need to come and visit us at Clapham South Dental Centre! We have a range of clear braces Clapham and removable aligners that are discreet and efficient when treating mild to moderate alignment issues. There is no need to worry about having missed the boat for treatment as these devices are suitable for adults, as well as teenagers. One of our popular treatments using clear braces Clapham is Invisalign, a removable aligner system that is bespoke for your mouth. clear-braces-clapham

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign’s aligners are made to measure your mouth with precision, because we have iTero digital scanning technology. We use this to get the dimensions required to have your aligners made in the Invisalign laboratory. Afterwards, we can also show you an animation of what your teeth will look like by the end of your treatment. As you wear your aligners, they will feel as comfortable as possible, being made-to-measure. They will push against the teeth to move them into the correct position. You will need to switch between your aligners every couple of weeks, as well as come and see us for a check-up every 6 weeks. You could find that your results are gained in as little as 6 to 18 months, which should be very good news, if you’ve been living with your misaligned teeth for many years!

Advantages of Invisalign

The great thing about Invisalign, aside from the fact that the aligners are practically invisible, because they are made of transparent plastic, is that you can improve your smile, but you also have the convenience of not wearing the aligners when you are eating or cleaning your teeth. This means that you won’t have to adapt your diet at all, nor will you develop oral hygiene problems because you have been trying to clean around an appliance in your mouth. You should also have time to take the aligners out of your mouth, while you do other things, such as playing sports, as long as you have them in for 22 hours a day.

Another benefit of Invisalign is the fact that by aligning your teeth, you should find it easier to chew food and this could reduce jaw pain, if you had been suffering with this. You could also find it easier to speak clearly. While you have your aligners, you won’t need to worry too much about having emergency appointments and taking time off work or school, because the aligners are very difficult to damage as the plastic is highly durable and resistant to breakages.

Consultation

To discover which treatment would be best for you, book in to see us for a consultation here at Clapham South Dental Centre. We are open 7 days a week, including some late evenings until 8pm, 4 days a week. We believe that you should be able to get access to dental care, when you need it, without having to disrupt your schedule completely. We’re here for you and want you to get the smile you deserve at a time that suits you. Come and see us, and let us put a smile on your face with clear braces Clapham!

Invisible braces: how to get a gorgeous smile discreetly

When people imagine having braces, they may think of visible metal wires and brackets. However, the world of dentistry is evolving and there are now a number of different invisible braces Clapham available, so there may not need to be anything visible in your mouth, while you get your teeth realigned. At Clapham South Dental Centre, we offer invisible braces Clapham that are suitable for both children and adults alike. An example of one such treatment is Invisalign, which has a special range for children called ‘Invisalign Teen’. invisible-braces-clapham

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a treatment consisting of plastic aligners that are worn over the teeth. They apply pressure to the teeth to push them into the correct position. This process can take between 6 to 18 months, on average. The aligners are virtually invisible, when they are being worn, because the plastic is transparent, so only your smile should be seen by others. The aligners need to be changed every couple of weeks, and you will need to come for check-ups with us every 6 weeks.

Bespoke treatment

The great thing about Invisalign, aside from it being very discreet, is the fact that the aligners should be very comfortable for patients to wear. This is because they are made bespoke for you. We use a digital scan to get the measurements of your mouth, rather than taking messy impressions. With this scan, we then send the details to Invisalign’s laboratories, where they will manufacture your aligners just for you. From this, we can also show you a video of what your teeth will look like by the end of the treatment, so that you can visualise just how great your teeth are going to look by then.

Healthy and happy

Realigning your smile is really important, because it can improve your self-esteem, knowing that your beam looks wonderful. You don’t want to look in the mirror and feel fed up with what you see, nor should you be avoiding having photos taken of you smiling. By realigning your smile, you should hopefully feel confident enough to smile freely and let your face reflect your happiness. Aside from this, you should also have better oral health. By having the teeth in the correct position, this should make them easier to clean and you should also be able to chew food better, reducing any jaw pain you may have been experiencing. You could even find that your speech improves, if your alignment issues had been making this difficult for you.

Opening hours

At Clapham South Dental Centre, we are open 7 days a week, so you should be able to find a time to come and see us that suits you. We are open from 8am Monday to Friday, and 9am on the weekend. We have late evening appointments until 8pm, Monday to Thursday, so there isn’t any excuse not to come and meet our friendly and experienced team. They are ready and waiting to deliver the smile you deserve to have in a discreet and convenient way with invisible braces Clapham.