Category: Dental Health Examinations

Common Myths About Oral Health and the Truth Behind Them

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Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile, but there are also numerous myths about dental care that often confuse people. As the best orthodontist in Bradford we’d like to set the record straight. Here are some of the most common oral hygiene myths and the truth behind the myths.

Myth 1: Brushing Harder Means Teeth Are Cleaner

Fact: Brushing too aggressively can hurt your teeth and gums, causing wear to your teeth.

There are a lot of people who think they should apply more pressure while brushing in hopes of achieving cleaner teeth. But that much pressure can thin enamel and cause gum recession. Rather, use a medium – bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular movements to effectively clean your teeth.

Using too much pressure while brushing can actually do more harm than good, according to a study by the American Dental Association (ADA), which found that it results in  a greater incidence of enamel wear and gum damage. Ideally, brush twice daily for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste.

Do you need to get expert advice on proper brushing techniques? Book an appointment with an orthodontist in Bradford based on your schedule now!

Busting Myth 2: Sugar Is the Leading Cause of Cavities

Truth: It’s not just sugar that causes cavities; poor oral hygiene does, too.

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Although sugar is known to cause tooth decay, it is all due to plaque buildup from poor hygiene. Bacteria in the plaque feed on sugar and secrete acids that corrode enamel. Yet even foods such as bread, pasta and fruits can increase the risk of cavities if teeth are not properly cleaned.

Cavities develop due to a combination of diet, oral hygiene and saliva production, a report by the British Dental Journal explains. Visiting an Orthodontist Bradford, UK can help prevent cavities.

Also Read: The Importance of Preventive Dental Care in Maintaining Oral Health

Myth 3: You Have to Be a Kid to Get Braces

Truth: Adults are not immune to braces!

Most people think they’re too old for braces. Braces in Bradford is possible at any age. There are many options available, clear aligners and ceramic braces are popular modern orthodontic treatments that can be great for adult patients looking for a straighter smile.

Orthodontic treatments have advanced so much that achieving straight teeth later in life is more viable than ever; research indicates that almost a quarter of orthodontic patients are adult.

Myth 4: You Only Go to the Dentist When You Feel Pain

Truth: Regular check-ups prevent dental issues before they start..

Pain is usually a late manifestation of dental disease. Regular clinic visiting can help identify the early signs of cavities, gum disease, and misalignment and can help prevent costly treatments down the road if action is taken early.

According to a study done by the National Health Service (NHS), regularly visiting the dentist decreases the probability of serious oral problems by 60%.

Worried about your oral health? Schedule an appointment with the best orthodontist bradford today! Click here.

Myth 5: White Teeth Mean Healthy Teeth

Truth: Teeth color doesn’t always indicate health.

Most people think that white teeth equal strong teeth but that isn’t always the case. Stains cause discoloration, while cavities and gum disease can be present in technically white teeth. At Eccleshill Dental Bradford, UK, braces from our orthodontist can help to assess the overall dental health.

Myth 6: You Don’t Need to Floss If You Brush Your Teeth Well

Truth: Flossing gets plaque from spots that your toothbrush can’t reach.

Brushing does a great job at cleaning the surface of your teeth, but no other option, like toothpaste, can remove debris and plaque between them other than flossing. This prevents gum disease and bad breath.

According to a study conducted by the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, individuals who floss daily have 40% less gum disease than those who don’t.

Myth 7: DIY Teeth Straightening Methods are Effective

Fact: Professional orthodontic treatment is the only safe and effective option.

Social media is awash with DIY teeth-straightening hacks, but these practices can cause havoc. It is always ideal to consult a certified orthodontist for teeth gaps for safe and reliable solutions.

English researchers wrote a case study in the British Dental Journal that described patients who attempted DIY orthodontic treatment severely damaging their teeth — and then having to pay for expensive repairs.

Myth 8: Braces Hurt and Are Years in the Making

Fact: Orthodontics have advanced a lot in both comfort and efficiency.

Thanks to modern medicine, orthodontic devices are now some of the most comfortable treatments available. The latest braces and aligners work much more efficiently than their predecessors and can often cut treatment time substantially. Seek an expert and book an appointment with your orthodontist in Bradford to know the best option for you.

Considering getting your teeth straightened? Call today to the best orthodontist in Bradford! Book now.

Myth 9: Mouthwash Replaces Brushing

Truth: Mouthwash is an adjunct, not a stand-in.

Mouthwash freshens breath and kills bacteria, but it does not remove dental plaque the way brushing and flossing do. It is to be used as a next step in your oral care regimen, not in place of it.

Myth 10 — Orthodontics Are Only for Cosmetic Reasons

Truth: Braces and aligners enhance both appearance and function.

Not only aesthetics improve, but orthodontic treatments are also vital to correcting bite issues, alleviating jaw pain, and achieving overall better oral health. Consult your emergency orthodontist in Bradford for more information.

Ready to smile more healthy? Get in touch with our staff for professional orthodontic treatment plan in Bradford! Book an appointment.

Final Thoughts Oral health myths can threaten your smile. The healthiest confident smile comes from taking care of it with advice from the best and going to the dentists regularly. Don’t delay if you are thinking about straightening teeth with braces in Bradford.

Book Your Appointment — Book an orthodontist appointment at Eccleshill Dental in Bradford now and get started with your dental needs. Book now.

Composite Bonding: A Quick and Painless Way to Enhance Your Smile

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What is Composite Bonding?

Composite bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure used to improve your smile by fixing and reshaping a tooth or numerous teeth  with a tooth-colored resin material. Gentle whitening is a fast, non-invasive, and painless procedure that helps with any kinds of dental aesthetics like chipped, discolored, or uneven teeth.

Unlike veneers or crowns, composite bonding requires minimal tooth preparation, so is perfect for those looking to enhance their smile with a low-cost treatment in the least amount of time. The entire process takes one visit, and the result can lasts for years with good maintenance.

What Does Composite Bonding Do?

Composite bonding treatments enhance the appearance of your teeth by:

  • Fixing chips and cracks
  • Concealing discoloration or stains
  • Closing small gaps between the teeth
  • Refashioning uneven or worn-down teeth
  • Covering exposed tooth roots due to gum recession
  • Reshape and resize of your teeth

This process is ideal for those who desire a more natural-looking remedy for subtle issues with their teeth without resorting to more invasive treatments. So, if you live in Bradford and  need a dentist for refashioning your teeth then composite bonding may be just the answer if you’re looking for the best Bradford composite bonding dentist!

Composite Bonding while this has several benefits, the most appealing side of this treatment is the fact that it is highly aesthetic and effective.

Your front teeth are the most visible part of your smile, and even the slightest imperfections can affect your confidence. Composite bonding on front teeth is a great treatment to restore symmetry and brightness to your smile in an effective and quick way without the need for veneers or crowns.

Because front teeth are more susceptible to small chips and stains, composite bonding can be used to treat these teeth as well for their appearance. The procedure includes applying a thin layer of composite resin to the tooth’s surface, shaping it to the required structure and curing it with a specialised light.

Also Read: The Health Benefits of Teeth Straightening: How a Straighter Smile Improves Oral Health

Can composite bonding straighten teeth?

If you are looking to make small adjustments to the appearance of your teeth, composite bonding may be your new best friend, as it won’t replace the need for orthodontics, but it can make you look like your teeth are straighter by hiding small misalignments. If your teeth have slight gaps or jagged edges, composite bonding can make your smile more even without using braces.

But in cases of more severe alignment issues, braces or clear aligners may be necessary. Your dentist may evaluate your teeth and suggest a suitable solution for your needs.

How Long Does Composite Bonding Take?

Composite bonding can last depending on oral hygiene, lifestyle choices, and regular dental checks. Composite bonding for teeth has an average lifespan of 2 to 7 years; however, touch-ups or replacements may be appropriate after the composite bonding becomes worn over time 

If you want to know how to help prolong the life of your composite bonding, here are some tips:

  • Do not bite on hard foods or objects
  • Brush and floss your teeth regular for optimal oral hygiene
  • See your dentist for regular 6 month  check-ups and professional cleanings
  • Disable smoking and over consumption of stain forming foods or drinks, including coffee, tea and red wine

Composite Bonding with Receding Gums

Receding gums can leave tooth roots exposed, resulting in sensitivity and an uneven gum line. Receding gums can be treated with composite bonding to cover the exposed areas, which helps reduce sensitivity and improve the appearance of the smile overall.

Gum recession can happen because of age, aggressive brushing, or gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis). If left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications, such as tooth loss. Dental composite bonding allows you to add a protection layer to your teeth while ensuring other benefits for your smile.

Also Read: The Importance of Preventive Dental Care in Maintaining Oral Health

Composite Bonding Shades: How to get a perfect match

Composite Bonding materials  have the most natural-looking outcome available in numerous shades, and many dentists can match the composite resin to your own teeth. This helps achieve a great balance and a more realistic finish.

Your dentist will choose the ideal color to match your natural teeth. This level of attention ensures that the bonded teeth blend naturally with your existing teeth, enhancing rather than overpowering your smile.

A Simple Solution: Teeth Bonding for Gaps

Tooth bonding for gaps is a great alternative for people who have gaps between their teeth but do not want to go through orthodontic treatment. This composite material is bonded to the sides of the teeth to close small gaps, instantly improving alignment.

Unlike braces or aligners — which can involve months of treatment — composite bonding produces instant results. Therefore, it is a popular option among those wanting a fast and effective way to improve their smiles.

How Much Is Composite Bonding?

Composite bonding prices can vary depending on how many teeth are treated, the complexity of the case and the experience of your dentist. Composite bonding costs in the UK: Between £249 and £385 per tooth.

Composite bonding is much cheaper than veneers or crowns, but still provides amazing results. For a better estimate, consult with a best composite bonding dentist in Bradford for a personal quote.

Explaining The Procedure Of Getting Dental Composite Bonding

Consultation: The dentist will examine your teeth and discuss the expected results.

  • Tooth Preparation: Little to no tooth preparation is needed.
  • Application: The composite resin is applied, shaped, and molded to your natural teeth.
  • Curing: The resin is hardened in place by a special light.
  • Tooth polishing: The teeth are polished for a shiny, natural look.

It takes place in one appointment, which is a great choice for busy people.

Why Choose Composite Bonding?

  • Time Efficient: Many procedures are performed in just one appointment.
  • Painless: No drilling or anesthesia necessary.
  • Inexpensive: A budget-friendly means of achieving a similar effect to veneers and braces.
  • Reversible: While you cannot remove the veneer, composite bonding can be trimmed (smoothed) or removed altogether, if required.
  • Natural Look: Color can be customized to match your teeth perfectly.

Make Your Appointment For Composite Bonding Now!

If you want to find the best composite bonding dentist in Bradford, look no further than our expert team at Eccleshill Dental. Get started on your procedure and book your consultation on the same day at Composite Bonding!

The Importance of Preventive Dental Care in Maintaining Oral Health

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Oral care is among the vital aspects of overall health. Good oral health boosts your confidence and inevitably paves the way toward a more healthy lifestyle. Preventive dental care is a process toward a lasting oral health regimen. Medical professionals increasingly recognise in Bradford that they can prevent all oral concerns before they even set in, and this helps everyone from kids to elders. 

What is Preventive Dental Care?

Preventive dental services mean those measures and practices that avoid dental ailments such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. By regularly visiting your dentist and practicing proper dental hygiene at home, you can save yourself a fortune in costly and complicated treatments instead. 

Routine Dental Check-ups: A Vital Component

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Routine dental check-up is among the most important aspects of preventive dental care in Bradford. Regular dental exams help in detecting problems early, as they are easier and cheaper to treat. Dentists recommend you to visit for a general dental exam every six months. These visits are essential for:

  • Tooth cavity detection: Dentists use X-ray, and visual examination processes for detection of cavities before they lead to severe destruction.
  • Screen test for oral cancer: Oral cancer is generally neglected, but regular checks can catch it early in its development.
  • Gum disease prevention: With undetected gum diseases, a loss of many teeth can happen. Dental examinations are significant in the identification of early gum problems, allowing prompt treatment. 

Also Read: Why Gum Health Is Important and How to Maintain It

Why Should I Visit for Routine Dental Check-ups?

The next question that may come to your mind is, “Why should I visit for routine dental check-ups, as I am not suffering from any pain?” The answer is simple: Many oral health issues are painless at the very start of their development. By the time you notice them, cavities or gum disease may have progressed to a more advanced stage and become costlier and more difficult to treat. Routine visits give your dentist a chance to catch problems early—before they progress to more serious stages. 

Teeth Cleaning Bradford: Keeping Your Teeth and Gums Healthy

Aside from routine physical examination, cleaning of the teeth is an integral part of preventive oral care. Despite maintaining good oral hygiene practices at home, no one is able to remove all plaque and tartar from his or her teeth. During a professional teeth cleaning in Bradford, a dental hygienist will:

  • Remove plaque and tartar buildup
  • Polish your teeth to remove surface stains
  • Floss and clean areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush.

Teeth cleaning not only helps maintain a bright smile and keeps your mouth fresh but also is good as a preventive measure against gum disease since any plaque buildup near the gums would end up with inflammation, infection, and ultimately gum disease if not cleaned and treated as warranted. 

Dental Hygiene in Bradford: Your Role in Oral Health

While regular visits to the dentist are essential, home care is equally important. It is necessary to brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day to keep plaque from accumulating and ensure the teeth and gums are kept in good health. Besides this, pay attention to your diet: one way to lessen the chances of cavities forming is to cut down on sugary snacks and drinks. 

Preventive Dentistry in Bradford: A Long-Term Investment

Preventive dentistry, as an investment one makes over time, allows one to save time and money while enjoying life. In Bradford, preventive dental services are available through various degree dentists whose services are meant to encourage you to retain good oral health. 

Oral Health Education in Bradford: Knowledge is Power

It becomes an important component in preventive dental care. With the knowledge of how to take care of teeth and gums and the signs of possible issues, a person’s interest in taking charge of his oral health grows. Many dental practices in Bradford offer education on:

  • Proper brushing and flossing techniques
  • The effects of diet on oral health
  • How to prevent tooth sensitivity and decay

By educating yourself and your family, you can help prevent oral problems and promote healthier habits for life.

Also Read: The Health Benefits of Teeth Straightening: How a Straighter Smile Improves Oral Health

Gum Disease Prevention: Why It Matters

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One of the most common oral health problems in Bradford and across the globe is gum disease or periodontal disease. It starts with gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, this can progress into more severe forms of gum disease that lead to tooth loss and other health issues. Preventing gum disease and maintaining healthy gums requires regular dental check-ups, as well as the right brushing and professional cleaning techniques. 

Conclusion: Make Preventive Dental Care a Priority

Preventive dental care is one of the best ways to keep your smile healthy and shining for years to come. In Bradford, routine dental check-ups, teeth cleaning, and oral health education all play their important roles in keeping dental problems at bay. Although by the time you’ve started having any major procedures such as corrective braces put on, you’ve already incurred the cost of time, money, and energy; with preventive dentistry, you may have completed that in a roundabout way while still maintaining your good oral health throughout your lifetime. 

Don’t wait for a problem to arise—schedule your next dental exam today at Eccleshill Dental Practice in Bradford and take proactive steps toward maintaining your oral health.

How a Dental Health Examination Can Detect Early Signs of Teeth Diseases

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Dental checkups are more than just making your teeth feel fresh and clean — they are essential preventive health care. Regular dental health examinations allow dentists to detect early signs of teeth diseases before they progress into complicated issues. Early detection helps prevent severe problems, including gum disease, tooth decay and even oral cancer.

Book a regular dental checkup today and pay yourself the best long-term benefit!

Why Dental Health is Important

Your overall health is closely related to your oral health. Research has shown that things like untreated gum disease is linked to more serious conditions including heart disease and diabetes. So, when you schedule a dental examination, you are taking an important first step to protect your entire health.

What is Dental Health Assessment

A dental health examination is a simple non-invasive assessment of your teeth, gums and mouth for early signs of disease or other abnormalities. It includes a few key steps:
● Visual Inspection — During a visual examination, the dentist checks for obvious signs of cavities, tartar accumulation, gum swelling or any abnormal tissue.
● X-Rays — X-rays are used to show hidden issues such as cavities in-between teeth, bone loss, or impacted teeth.
● Discussion of Dental Habits – Dentists will usually ask about your brushing, flossing, and diet to provide tailored advice for better mouth care. Common Symptoms That May Warn You of Teeth Diseases Numerous dental diseases are asymptomatic in the early stages of their development. A dental health examination in Bradford will enable us to identify early signs which include:
● Swelling of the Gums: Mild gum disease or gingivitis can be arrested as well as treated before it becomes an advanced kind of the illness or periodontitis.
● Cavities: Small holes in the teeth do not cause pain, so they often go unnoticed. They are detected during dental exams, prior to the requirement of more complex treatments.
● Oral Cancer: Painless red or white patches may be early signs of oral cancer.
● Bruxism: Early detection of grinding can protect teeth against damage with treatments such as night guards. Prevent these problems in their tracks by booking yourself a dental exam before they become so serious that treatment is more complex and expensive. Schedule a dental examination now!

How a Dental Health Examination Can Detect Early Signs of Teeth Diseases

Dental checkups aren’t merely a ticket to a plaque-free smile; it’s a preventative measure. Frequent examinations reveal the early signs of complications such as gum disease, tooth decay and even oral cancer, reducing your risk for serious problems. Globally, nearly 3.5 billion people suffer from oral diseases, while around 10% of the population is estimated to have severe periodontal disease according to the World Health Organization. Regular checkups are the best way to identify these risks early on and manage them to promote health. Schedule a check up now, and treat your oral health (and whole body) this year!

For more details, you can refer to WHO’s oral health information here.

How Frequently Should You See the Dentist?

Generally, medical professionals suggest a dentist visit once in every six months for a dental check-up. Of course, this can be different based on personal needs in oral health. Your dentist may recommend more frequent visits if you are at risk for particular problems.

When is the Right Time to Visit a Dentist?

Aside from preventive appointments, you should visit a dentist if you ever experience pain, bleeding gums, sensitivity or halitosis (bad breath) for an extended period of time.

Benefits of Regular Dental Health Examinations for New Patients

Are you new to dental exams? Checkups done regularly are very useful because of the following reasons:
● Avoid Future Problems: This means you can avoid expensive or complicated treatment in the future.
● Promote Strong Gums and Teeth: Regular appointments prevent gum disease and increase the likelihood that you will have a healthy set of teeth.
● Deliver Custom Care: Dentists provide customised advice for your brushing, flossing and other dental hygiene activities.

Book regular dental checkups in Bradford for a healthy, lifelong smile!

Most Common Dental Diseases Found During Routine Checks

why dental health is important, dental health examination in Bradford, early signs of teeth diseases, regular dental health examinations for new patients, how much is a dental check up

Dental health examinations are effective at identifying several common conditions, including:

● Tooth decay: Which can be quickly treated before it turns into bigger issues.
● Periodontal Disease: Do you schedule regular dental cleanings and exams? Almost half of people 30 years and older have some form of gum disease, but it is preventable.
● Oral Cancer: When diagnosed in an early stage during a usual health examination it can be treated easily.
● Erosion of enamel: Common in individuals who consume acidic foods. But early detection and treatment can prevent further erosion.

How Much Does it Cost to Use a Private Dentist and Can You Afford It?

The cost of a private dental checkup is usually somewhere between $80 and $200, depending on clinic services. Planning on regular checkups is economical since it will save expensive care. Many clinics have low priced plans or discounts to make key services accessible.

How Much is a Dental Check-Up?

Dental checkup cost depends on your location and services included. Standard exam prices range from approximately $80 to $150, plus x-rays if necessary. Nonetheless, scheduling regular tests can prevent expensive treatment in the future (like dental filling or root canals).

Reasons to Choose a Dentist in Bradford

General and specialised dentistry, including orthodontics and paediatric care, is also available within easy reach of residents of Bradford. There are a number of benefits of choosing a local dentist in Bradford , including:

● Experienced Professionals: Highly qualified dentists and orthodontists are available in Bradford.
● Complete Services: A dentist provides a wide range of services like preventive care and cosmetic treatments.
● Convenient Availability: Most centres offer post-work hours and weekend openings to fit around the tightest of schedules.

Ready to take control of your dental health? Schedule a dental examination in Bradford with our trusted professionals today.

Tips for Maintaining Oral Health Between Dental Checkups

Practising good oral hygiene between visits is essential. Here are some simple ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy:
● Brush Twice a Day: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush for the best removal of plaque.
● Floss daily: Flosser gets rid of particles that brushing can oftentimes overlook.
● Stay Away from Sugary Foods: Sugar promotes the development of bacteria which results in cavities.
● Drink plenty of water: Water can assist in the removal of food debris and bacteria.
● Mouthwash: An antimicrobial mouthwash helps to kill the bacteria in your mouth which will keep your breath and gums healthy.

Final Thoughts: The Importance of Good Dental Health

Regular dental health examinations in Bradford not only help you with a healthy smile but also prevent more serious oral illnesses. Diagnosing threats early helps avoid painful and costly treatments down the road. From youngsters to seniors, everyone can benefit from these routine checkups.

Don’t wait—book your regular dental checkup today and protect your oral health!

Your dental health is critical for your overall well being. Start prioritising your health today with a trusted dental health examination in Bradford

How To: Make Tooth Brushing Enjoyable For Children!

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Do you find tooth brushing time is difficult with your child/ren? Gaining cooperation with children can be difficult and it can be stressful for a parent. Here are some top tips to make tooth brushing time easier for the little ones!

Tooth brushing can be made fun, right?

Children may find tooth brushing boring which will lead to a loss in interest. Meaning they quickly become uncooperative. Children feed off energy and enjoy being surrounded in a positive environment. A child would be more open to spend time on toothbrushing if it was enjoyable for them. Praising a child for doing well is key to move them into continuous routine, but the question is, how? Encouraging good dental hygiene habits from an early age can help make tooth brushing a natural part of their routine, promoting better gum health treatments and preventing future dental issues.

How can I praise my child?

  • Sticker charts – This shows they are doing well so they are rewarded.
  • Treats – e.g. brush twice a day for 2 weeks and have a small treat. As time goes on children will fit into a routine you can extend the time period to monthly. Soon this will become second nature to them.
  • Allowing them to pick their own toothbrush and toothpaste. This will make children feel independent and excited to use their new toothbrush which they have picked. Flovaoured tooth paste will also ensure that the flavour is not a reason to be put off at brushing time!

Gaining Trust.

Brushing you child’s teeth has to be made enjoyable for them. Brushing twice a day for 2 minutes is ideal. So maybe try brushing to their favourite song, a flavoured toothpaste, a character toothbrush of their choice or brushing with a cuddly toy. Children like to teach and be in charge, so allow your child to teach you or their toy th best ways to brush!

Also Read: Interdental Brushes Or Floss. Which Works Best For Me?

Children are influenced!

Children trust their parents and are influenced by their actions. Have you ever noticed your child copying something you do? That’s because they know your actions are right so they are influenced by them. Why not brush your teeth as you little one do there’s! This will get them into a routine and will try copying your techniques.

Interacting with children.

Let them brushing your teeth! and then you can brush theres. This is something a lot of parents do to ensure the teeth are getting cleaned as well as possible. Youtube have some fantastic videos with characters, songs and ryhmes children will enjoy. The videos are designed to last as long as toothbrushing should, this is so children get into a routine of brushing for 2 minutes twice a day and still find it fun and exciting. Only play the video at brushing times, so they relate the song to brusing their teeth.

It is important that children are engaging from a young age so as soon as you see a little tooth come through, introduce a toothbrush to them!

If your little one is over 12 months old, get them booked in with the dentist so they can get used to the dental environment!

Tel – 01274 633 406

4 Ways Your Dental Care is More Affordable Than You Think

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When was the last time you visited the dentist for a regular dental health check and hygiene appointment? You’re probably busy worrying about your family, work, finances, and array of other concerns and stresses. You might consider a trip to the dentist as more of a luxury, or something you’ll get to when your life (and your finances) settle down a bit. Does this sound familiar?

Unfortunately, good dental health isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. A recent UK survey found that 54% of adults over the age of 16 had moderate signs of periodontal (gum) disease, the leading cause of tooth loss. The only available treatment (which believe it or not, reduces the need for more costly procedures later down the line) is regular trips to your dentist/hygienist. Like most people, you may know these things, but you still hesitate to pick up the phone to book an appointment. Why? You expect those dental visits to be costlier than you can afford.

At Eccleshill Dental, your dental health could be more affordable than you think. We’ve compiled a list of important things to consider:

How much do you value your smile?

When it comes to your health and appearance, the value you place upon them is a very personal decision. Most of us take these things for granted, and what we don’t stop to consider is how we will feel in the longer-term, when our health and appearance start to deteriorate. It is quite often at this late stage (where procedures are much more expensive), that people choose to take action.

Also Read: How To Find The Right Dental Practice For You

What is the cost?

Consider that the average British household spends 6.5% of their annual income on coffee, 3.7% on clothes, and 1.4% on alcohol. The cost of your routine dental care (based on two dental health checks and two hygiene appointments per year) is only 0.6% of an average household budget. That’s less than 1%!

Find out if you have insurance

Surprising as it might seem, there are many of us that don’t realise we have access to dental insurance, perhaps through an employer or through a policy we have taken out in the past. If you have dental insurance that is not being used, then you will be missing out on an array of benefits. Many insurance companies allow you to claim back 50-100% of the cost of your dental bill (dependent on the treatment type). Many insurance policies cover routine dental care and treatment, which allow you to plan for your future dental needs. Policies which offer emergency and worldwide cover allow you to plan for any unexpected dental accidents at home or abroad. If you don’t yet have dental insurance, take some time to shop around online. There are many different insurance schemes available, each with different benefits.

No insurance? We’ve got you covered!

At Eccleshill Dental, we offer a variety of different payment methods to suit your needs, from 0% finance, to tailored payment plans. Many of our patients opt to join one of our affordable membership plans, which for a small monthly fee, offer a range of fantastic benefits.

We believe that everyone should be able to afford excellent dental care, which is why we pride ourselves on delivering fantastic services at affordable prices. If you would like any further information on our practice, services, fees, or payment methods, why not give us a call on 01274 633406.

 

A Practical Guide To Overcoming Dental Anxiety

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‘Dentophobia’, or a fear of the dentist, is extremely common. Statistics suggest that around 12% of us suffer from extreme dental anxiety. The British Dental Association says that 25% of the UK population suffer from some sort of anxiety before visiting the dentist. We suspect that number is a lot higher.

The most common thing we encounter in our nervous patients is shame and embarrassment. Your phobia is nothing to feel ashamed and embarrassed about. It is a very rational reaction to fear, pain, or a previous bad experience, and it much more common than you think.

Nonetheless, this can have a very damaging effect on your long-term health. Dental phobics tend to live with toothache, infections, bleeding gums, and bad breath. Many people are so embarrassed about the appearance of their teeth, that they go several years without smiling. Only when the pain/appearance of the teeth becomes unbearable, do they realise that a trip to the dentist is unavoidable.

Also Read: The Magic In Your Smile: 10 Ways Smiling Benefits Your Health and Happiness

Across dentistry as a whole, phobias are now being treated as a manageable condition. There are structured methods in place to help you get through your dental appointment with minimal discomfort, both physically and emotionally. At Eccleshill Dental, we take this very seriously. Here are the practical steps we encourage you to take, to make your visits more manageable:

  1. Talk to us

As with any phobia, the most important step to overcoming your fear is to identify the source of the problem. It may have been a bad experience at the school dentist, an uncomfortable injection, or even a horror story that you heard elsewhere. Whatever the reason, the most important step is to identify this. At Eccleshill Dental, we encourage you to talk to us about your fears and feelings. All new patients are invited to meet with our patient care coordinator, who will have a relaxed discussion with you in a comfortable setting. We take the time to get to know you and understand your fears. We will take whatever steps we need to help you overcome your anxieties, and our patient coordinator is available to support you through each of your appointments.

  1. Headphones

Plenty of patients report that their biggest fear is the sound of the dental drill. Many people choose to bring in some music and their headphones, which they listen to throughout their treatment. This is a simple and easy method to reduce your anxiety, and get you through your dental appointment.

  1. Topical anaesthetic gel

For those of you who are scared of the dental needle, did you know we offer topical anaesthetic gel? Topical gel is applied to the gum before your injection is administered, making it much more comfortable.

Also Read: How To Find The Right Dental Practice For You

  1. Stagger your treatment

We understand for many phobic patients, a bigger treatment plan can be quite overwhelming (if not downright off-putting). We encourage patients to stage their treatment in a way that best suits their needs. Starting out with easier, simpler treatments and working your way up to more comprehensive treatment can be a great way to ease yourself into your dental care.

  1. Sedation

Sedation treatment is an option for patients who are simply unable to cope with treatment, or may be struggling with the idea of something such as an extraction. Speak to your dentist about your sedation options. This may be available at your practice, or your dentist may be able to facilitate your referral to a sedation dentist for treatment.

  1. Trust us

We will do the hard work. All you need to focus on is getting yourself through the door. This is the hardest step. Once you have done that, we will take care of the rest.  We pride ourselves on taking every step we can to ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible.

At Eccleshill Dental, patients are encouraged to relax and feel a part of the family from the moment they step through the door. We are proud to have helped many of our patients overcome a life-long dental phobia, and we hope to help many more people on that journey. Don’t let your anxiety be a barrier to a happier, healthier smile – let us help you today.

To book your complimentary consultation with our patient care coordinator (or for some free, friendly advice) email rachel@eccleshilldental.com.

 

How To Find The Right Dental Practice For You

Posted on by web-log-eccleshill3204

Bradford and Leeds are fortunate enough to have many dental practices. But with so many dentists and options,

how do you know which Bradford and Leeds dental practice is right for you?

There is no definitive answer to this question, and as individuals, we all have different needs. A cosmetic dental practice might be a great option for someone looking for a Hollywood smile, but is this dental practice suitable for an anxious patient who is concerned about a broken tooth?

We have put together a list of useful tips on how to find the best dentist for you. Whilst there is no magic solution to this question, these tools will help you narrow the list and make an informed decision.

Tips for choosing the best Bradford and Leeds dentist for you:

  1. Set Priorities

Before selecting your dentist, think about what you want out of the experience, and what matters most to you. What is an absolute priority to one patient, is not necessarily to the next. Things you might want to consider might be proximity, opening times and appointment availability. Consider what treatments you are interested in: are you looking for cosmetic treatment, or a family friendly practice for you and your children? Many practices combine a variety of services, but working out exactly what you want to gain from your dental experience is an excellent starting point.

  1. Cost and Payment Options

For many people, the deciding factor in selecting a dental practice is affordability. With limited access to NHS dental places, and an ever increasing number of people turning to private dentistry, a large majority us opt for the most affordable option. What many patients don’t realise, is both the affordability and value available in private dentistry. Some practices offer membership plans which create huge savings, and allow you to plan for your future dental needs. At Eccleshill Dental, we offer membership plans for as little as £12.99 per month. Our plans give you access to 17-point dental health checks, plaque control, prevention and hygiene appointments, priority appointments, and worldwide dental emergency assistance (along with an additional 20% discount from any required treatment). 0% finance options, and tailored payment plans are also available for patients wishing to undertake larger treatment plans, but wanting to spread the cost of their treatment into more affordable monthly repayments.

  1. See What Other People Are Saying

Reviews matter. Nearly 90% of internet users say they use online reviews before choosing a business or service. The majority of us rarely book a holiday without first checking Trip Advisor. Dentistry is no different. Read Google reviews, and see what other people are saying about their experiences at a practice you are thinking of joining. Don’t limit your research to reviews alone, use social media to take a look at your potential new practice. This is a great way to see what exciting things are happening within the business, and see how the practice interacts with its patients online.

  1. Try It Out

The best way to assess whether or not a dental practice is right for you, is to try it out for yourself. Many practices offer free consultations, which is a great opportunity to see whether or not the practice is a fit for your needs. A good dental practice will respect your desire to make an informed decision, and there should be no obligation or pressure to come back. At Eccleshill Dental, we offer complimentary consultations with our patient care coordinator, Rachel. This is a relaxed appointment in a comfortable setting, where we learn more about what we can do to help you. You will have the opportunity to look around the practice and learn about the many services available at Eccleshill Dental.


Read Our Reviews

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To book your complimentary consultation, telephone the practice on 01274 633406.