Category: General Dentistry

Managing your toothache at home

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Following NHS guidance, every dental practice in the UK has been asked to effectively close their doors and manage patients remotely where possible.

If you do develop dental pain, in almost all cases, we are able to assist our patients remotely and we can provide analgesics, antibiotics and more specific dental advice to help our patients overcome their dental problems until we are able to see them again at the practice.

However, should you be experiencing swelling on your face, bleeding due to trauma, severely broken tooth or finding it difficult to swallow, this does require urgent professional attention so please call us on 01274 633406 where we can assist you further and refer you to an urgent care centre.

There are a few things you can do to that may help reduce the pain without having to leave your house and manage pain from teeth, gums, ulcers and/or broken teeth until you are able to see us:

How to manage pain from teeth while self-isolating?

Anti-inflammatory tablets (NSAIDs)

Anti-inflammatory tablets (NSAIDs) can reduce the sensitivity. A combination of ibuprofen and paracetamol has been found to be beneficial if you can take them both. However, patients who have confirmed COVID-19, or believe to have COVID-19 should take paracetamol in preference to ibuprofen. Please take in accordance to instructions on the packet.
Tip: Don’t stop taking the anti-inflammatory when the pain stops (or it will come back again).

Desensitising toothpaste

Desensitising toothpaste such as Sensodyne repair and protect or Colgate sensitive pro relief can help.

Anaesthetic gel

Anaesthetic gel such as Orajel applied to the area can help to numb the pain.

Keep your head elevated

Keep your head elevated at night when you lie down to go to sleep, the blood pressure in the tooth can increase which increases pain. An extra pillow can help keep your head elevated when you sleep.

Saltwater Rinse

Saltwater works to reduce dental bacteria by creating an acidic environment as you swish it around your mouth. It can also help to dislodge bits of stuck food that may be causing pain, helping with managing tooth pain.

Cold Compress

Sometimes tooth pain can lead to swelling. A cold compress can help reduce your swollen face and can also offer some temporary pain relief. It is especially effective when you have a chipped tooth or one that was knocked loose. However, if red gums and a fever accompany the pain, there may be an infection, and you should immediately us.

Tip: Never put heat externally on your face as this can draw the infection into the tissues in your face causing external swellings.

How to manage pain from gums while self-isolating?

If there is bacteria or food debris trapped between the gum and the tooth, this can cause pain.

Clean the area

Thoroughly clean the area with floss or a Te-Pe interdental brush. You could put Corsodyl Gel onto the brush to help clean the area.

Rinse thoroughly

Rinse thoroughly with Corsodyl mouthwash can help (but Corsodyl will stain your teeth so we don’t recommend this for long term use).

How to manage pain from ulcers?

Mouth ulcers can be a sign of underlying medical conditions, so if they don’t heal within two weeks, please get them checked by a dentist.

To reduce the discomfort, you can try:
• Anaesthetic gel such as Orajel
• Warm salty mouthwath
• Difflam (Benzydamine) spray or mouthwash
• Thorough cleaning (even if painful)
• Corsodyl mouthwash (max. 1 week use)
• Soft diet
• Painkillers

To help with healing of ulcers, you can try:

Gengigel can be effective as well as soothing the pain

How to manage pain from broken teeth while self-isolating?

If a tooth or filling has chipped or cracked, this can cause sensitivity from the tooth being exposed or pain to your tongue from sharp edges.

The sensitivity can be reduced by rubbing a de-sensitising toothpaste onto the tooth or placing a temporary filling material over the broken corner until a more definitive filling can be placed.

Download a short guide on how to manage your toothache, which has been put together by the creative @digimax_dental team.

It may be a few more weeks before we can resume ‘normal’ dental care, however, we are available over the phone to help with any of your dental needs so please don’t be afraid to contact us on 01274 633406 for any dental advice.

Thankyou for reading & stay safe!

From the Eccleshill Dental team

Braces. What Works and What Doesn’t?

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There are many types of orthodontic appliances, which work to to straighten teeth. However, for every pro, there’s also a con. I’m here to get make them clear you you!

It’s important to know what there is to offer:

  • Fixed braces (Train tracks) in clear or standard silver.
  • Clear aligners. From brands like QuickStraightTeeth and Invisalign.
  • Palatal Brace.
  • Lingual Braces.

Here at Eccleshill Dental we offer both fixed braces and clear aligners. Our orthodontic-dentist, Dr. Rishi has completed many life-changing cases which patients have been over the moon with. Here as a few of the range of cases he has completed below!

So, what’s the difference?

Fixed Braces:

We offer two types of fixed appliances – Quick Straight Teeth and FastBraces. Both systems are fantastic but the severity of the teeth would determine which system would benefit yourself. Dr. Rishi is trained and skilled to understand the rotation/movement your teeth need to make before he’s even started!

Here are the advantages:

  • Fixed braces allow more movement and control so you tend to get a better result!
  • They’re cemented in so you will not forget to wear them!
  • You can have ceramic/clear brackets which are unnoticeable.
  • You can have straight teeth in as little as three months!

Here are the disadvantages:

  • Fixed braces can look unsightly.
  • Sometimes they can be hard to clean.
  • In the first few days they can be slightly uncomfortable but all braces can! If children can do it..so can you!

Also Read: How To: Make Tooth Brushing Enjoyable For Children!

Clear Aligners:

The main brand people tend to associate with aligners is Invisalign. They are basically clear retainers which have to be worn for 22 hours of the day to get the best results, but you can hardly tell they are there.

Every few weeks you will have a new aligners to wear and each one moves the teeth slightly until they are perfectly aligned!

Here are the advantages:

  • Hardly visible at all which is the main reason people are drawn to them.
  • Very easy to clean!
  • At the end of the treatment you don’t need cemented brackets and wired removing which can be slightly uncomfortable – but in no means painful.
  • Everything is controlled by you, there are no adjustment appointments, just simply pick up your new trays every few weeks.

Here are the disadvantages:

  • Since aligners are removable, people can forget to out them back in!
  • You can NOT eat or drink with them in.
  • Teeth must be cleaned after every meal to advoid cavities.
  • They don’t always allow for certain movements.

If you are curious as to which system would work for yourself, contact us here at Eccleshill Dental! We are running a free orthodontic consultation right up until the end of September!

Tel – 01274 633 406 for more information.

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.

 

The Real Cost of NOT Replacing a Missing Tooth

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Most people are aware that missing teeth make us appear older, but have you ever wondered about the health implications of not replacing a missing tooth? According to a study conducted by the University College London and Harvard University, the average Briton is missing 6.97 teeth, and an enormous 74% of adults in the UK have had a dental extraction. Tooth loss occurs for a variety of different reasons, including decay, infection, wear, trauma, and gum disease. Whatever the reason for tooth loss, the impact on your life is often significant.

In addition to the common concerns about appearance, there are other real issues and dangers present if you decide not to replace a missing tooth. We’ve compiled a list of potential risks to help you better understand the importance of replacing your missing tooth:

  1. Bone Loss

One of the most significant risks related to not replacing a missing tooth is bone loss (bone resorption). Bone loss occurs after a tooth is lost or removed because the roots of the tooth are no longer embedded into the jawbone, leaving a void. Over time, resorption will occur and the jawbone will begin to deteriorate. If the missing tooth is not replaced, as your jawbone begins to be affected, you will notice that your face shape will gradually change, and your lips may appear asymmetrical and sunken. Unfortunately, bone resorption doesn’t only impact the tooth that’s missing, but puts you at risk of losing neighboring teeth as well. By not immediately replacing a missing tooth, the ability to provide a successful denture, bridge, or implant is often compromised due to the loss of bone.

Also Read: Braces: How Old Is Too Old?

  1. Drifting Teeth

If lost teeth are not immediately replaced, this can have a detrimental effect on surrounding teeth.  The opposing teeth are most likely to be affected, and will continue to drift or move until there is an equal and opposing force.  They might even drift and touch the opposing gums where the extracted teeth once were. Drifting teeth may cause your bite to change, leading to muscle soreness and Temporo-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction (issues with your jaw joint).

  1. Tooth Wear

In an attempt to avoid biting and chewing in the area where a tooth or teeth are missing, you will most likely begin overusing other teeth when eating. For example, if a tooth or teeth were extracted on the right side of your mouth, you would begin eating on the left side of your mouth. Uneven chewing forces cause excessive wear, and can lead to further tooth loss.

  1. Reduced Ability to Speak Clearly and Eat Certain Foods

A serious risk of not replacing a missing tooth, is a reduced ability to speak clearly and eat certain food types. Depending on which tooth or teeth are missing, it may become difficult to bite and chew certain foods. Eventually, this can lead to diminished health and poor nutrition. If certain teeth are missing (such as the ones at the front) it can also impact your ability to speak properly. Pronouncing certain words can be difficult, and you may develop a lisp.

Also Read: 4 Ways Your Dental Care is More Affordable Than You Think

  1. Reduced Self-Esteem

Whilst the examples above are all tangible effects of a missing tooth, there are intangible effects of a missing tooth which are present, and can impact your life in severe ways. If a missing tooth can be seen when you smile, speak, or eat, you may start to avoid doing any of these activities in public. This can have a detrimental effect on your social life, your job, and relationships. Depending on your age, career path, and relationship status, the cost of a missing tooth throughout your lifetime can really add up if you’re not confident to smile, speak, or eat in front of other people.

Options and Solutions

Whilst the potential risks of not replacing a missing tooth or teeth are great, we are fortunate enough to live in a society where options for replacements are readily available. There are several options to consider, including dentures, dental bridges, and the most popular and durable option – dental implants.

At Eccleshill Dental, we are proud to have helped many patients replace missing teeth, and regain their confidence. If you would like some friendly, confidential advice on the options and costs involved, telephone the practice on 01274 633406 to book a complimentary consultation with our patient care coordinator.

Together, let’s find your smile.

How To Find The Right Dental Practice For You

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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.


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