Category: Dentistry

Blog posts and articles about general dentistry treatments from Dr Nishan Dixit, your Harrow dentist

Does Invisalign hurt?

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit is the founder and principal dentist of Blue Court Dental. Patients enjoy his relaxed, friendly and gentle approach while experiencing his meticulous attention to detail. He has a special interest in providing smile makeovers, natural-looking white fillings and cosmetic braces, but also provides a range of treatments from preventative and general dental care to complex dental rehabilitation.
Dr Nishan Dixit

Latest posts by Dr Nishan Dixit (see all)

As more and more people are prescribed Invisalign to straighten teeth invisibly, inevitably more people turn to the Internet to look for answers to their questions, in this blog post we are going to tackle the popular question of does Invisalign hurt?

Before we begin, let’s take a quick look at what the Invisalign treatment entails.

Orthodontic treatments utilise the principle that if you put a continuous gentle pressure on teeth then they will move. Studies have shown that the key factor  is to have gentle continuous pressure, rather than short bursts of lots of pressure, this same principle works for traditional braces also. For this reason orthodontic treatments often take up to 2 years to achieve the desired result.

Each orthodontic system puts pressure on the teeth in a different way, some use removable appliances with springs and wires, others use brackets which are permanently bonded to your teeth and Invisalign uses clear aligners. These clear aligners fit over your teeth and put pressure on them to move them in the desired direction. You replace the aligners once every 2 weeks, this is how Invisalign achieves the continuous pressure on your teeth.

So where does the pain come from?

Pain can come from a couple of causes:

  • the aligners themselves causing irritation
  • the movement of the teeth causing pain and/or sensitivity

Sharp edges on Invisalign

braces can have sharp edgesVery rarely the Invisalign aligners may have sharp or rough edges which are initially not noticed by Align Technologies when they send the Invisalign trays back to your dentist. If you find that the trays have sharp edges DO NOT try to adjust yourself. The material can warp if it is heated excessively and this warping will affect your trays ability to align your teeth. If you notice any sharp edges then tell your Invisalign dentist who can then book you in for an appointment to have the trays adjusted.

Invisalign hurts to take off

Sometimes you may find that a new set of aligners is a little difficult to remove initially and causes pain for the first week. This is because it is an active appliance and is actively pushing on your teeth, and therefore might be quite tight to remove.

To remove the aligner we don’t recommend pulling one side excessively and then the other, this can cause the aligner to flex which can result in a tear or fracture down the middle of the aligner. Instead, we recommend loosening one side very slightly, then loosening the other and then finally pulling on both sides at the same time to remove the aligner in one go.

If you’re still having trouble removing the aligner and it is causing you pain then let your dentist know as they may be able to help with more details and personalised instructions on removing the appliance.

Invisalign pain in one tooth

It might seem odd to experience pain in a single tooth but if an aligner is working on single tooth movements then this may be the reason why. Your whole Invisalign treatment will be planned from start to finish, at the beginning you may find that one tooth is being moved and/or rotated. Further aligners may then begin to move other teeth. If you have Short term pain in a single tooth don’t worry, this is probably part of the plan to move that single tooth before the others. Please do tell your Invisalign dentist if the pain persists.

Toothache with Invisalign

Because there is continuous pressure being put on your tooth you may find that you occasionally have toothache. This can usually be relieved with over-the-counter pain relief and should only last for a few days. Please do not be tempted to take your aligner out too often, you should be wearing your aligner for at least 22 hours a day in order to ensure that your Invisalign treatment stays on course. If you take the aligner out, you may find that the treatment takes longer than prescribed and may end up costing more in the long run due to an increased number of visits to the dentist.

Invisalign drinking with a straw

only drink water with InvisalignFor good oral hygiene it is recommended that you only drink water whilst wearing your Invisalign braces. Occasionally people recommend drinking other drinks through a straw, whilst this is better than drinking them from the glass it can still leave sugar covering your teeth as it washes around the aligner. This sugar then forms the food for the bacteria which excrete acid as they digest it, this acid can then lead to tooth decay.

The recommendation therefore is only drink water whilst wearing aligners and taken out to drink anything else, this includes drinking alcohol with Invisalign, particularly as alcohol often has a higher sugar content.

Do not drink any hot drinks whilst wearing your aligners as this can warp them meaning you have to have new trays made, this could be quite an expensive exercise!

 

Invisalign pain relief

If you are experiencing mild tooth ache with Invisalign then we recommend taking over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol. Invisalign pain should last longer than a few days each time you switch to a new aligner. If you have severe pain or the aligner seems to be rough then please inform your Invisalign dentist who can then make modifications to either the treatment plan or the aligner itself.

 

 

 

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit is the founder and principal dentist of Blue Court Dental. Patients enjoy his relaxed, friendly and gentle approach while experiencing his meticulous attention to detail. He has a special interest in providing smile makeovers, natural-looking white fillings and cosmetic braces, but also provides a range of treatments from preventative and general dental care to complex dental rehabilitation.
Dr Nishan Dixit

Latest posts by Dr Nishan Dixit (see all)

So many people ask questions about the length of time that Invisalign takes, whether that be to get the aligners in the 1st place or to resolve a particular dental problem. This blog post will take a detailed look at some of the most common questions that people ask about this modern cosmetic treatment. We have also included some Invisalign results in the relevant sections so that you can see how long it takes to achieve the ideal smile

let’s start at the beginning of the Invisalign process.

How long does Invisalign take to make?

The process for the Invisalign starts with an initial consultation. After this consultation, you will have your 3-D digital scans. The 3-D scans will be used to design your new smile and allow the computer software to calculate the number of aligners required. After all of these calculations have been done and you have approved the look of your new smile Align Technologies Inc can begin the manufacturing process. The actual manufacture of Invisalign often only takes a few hours as the most advanced 3-D manufacturing processes are used. Once the trays have been manufactured they can be sent to the practice.

How long does it take to get Invisalign trays after scans?

Once you have had all of your initial scans the trays will usually be sent to the practice within approximately 2 weeks. You will then be invited to revisit the practice to ensure that the train is 6 and that you are comfortable with taking them in and out.

How long does Invisalign take to put on?

You might find that initially, it takes you a little longer to put the Invisalign trays in each day, although it shouldn’t take much longer than 30 seconds each time to remove your aligners or to put them on, as you get used to how the trays clip in you should be able to pop them in and out in only a couple of seconds each time. This makes them extremely convenient, especially as you will need to remove them for eating and drinking.

Treatment times for different types of case

Treatment times for Invisalign will always vary, the general rule of thumb is that moving front teeth is quicker than removing back teeth and that the smaller amount of movement required takes a shorter amount of time.

How long does Invisalign take to close a gap

If you just have a couple of small gaps between your front teeth then you may be suitable for Invisalign Go, this treatment typically takes around 6 months. However, you may find that other forms of treatment such as cosmetic bonding or even dental veneers may be more suitable, particularly if you want results in a shorter period of time.

Invisalign results for closing a gap

“This lady was always unhappy with the gaps between her teeth. After discussing the various options with her we decided on Invisalign treatment followed by a course of teeth whitening. She is delighted with the results. Her next step will be some simple composite edge bonding should she desire. Invisalign followed by teeth whitening +/- bonding is a great non invasive way of achieving a new smile.” – Dr Nishan Dixit

Invisalign results for closing the gap

How long does Invisalign take for crowded teeth

Front crowded teeth can usually be corrected in between 6 and 12 months, depending on the amount of crowding. One point to note is to be aware of the fact that the reason teeth are often crowded it because there isn’t enough room for them in the jaw. There may, therefore, need to be additional treatments undertaken prior to Invisalign, such as possible extraction of teeth in order to make enough room. Whilst the Invisalign treatment may take between is 6 and 12 months, this additional treatment will add to the overall treatment time for crowded teeth.

Invisalign results for crowded teeth

“This lady had enough of her crowded lower teeth and decided to have them straightened. She had always found it difficult to keep them clean and free from staining due to the instanding tooth.  After a discussion of the various options available to her she decided on treatment with Invisalign clear aligners. We completed the short course of treatment in approximately 16 weeks.  She was very pleased with the result and also rewhitened her teeth again to give them a brighter look. This patient had mildly crooked teeth and so Invisalign treatment was relatively straightforward and simple.” – Dr Nishan Dixit

Screenshot 2020-02-27 09.53.33

“A course of Invisalign was the ideal treatment for this young man to correct the alignment of his teeth .” – Dr Nishan Dixit

Screenshot 2020-02-27 09.51.24

Screenshot 2020-02-27 09.51.27

Screenshot 2020-02-27 09.51.30

How long does Invisalign take for overbite

An overbite is one of the more complex problems to resolve with Invisalign. It may involve moving a larger number of teeth, particularly back teeth which have larger roots and are therefore more difficult to move. Typical treatments for an overbite with Invisalign can take up to 2 years.

How often should I use Invisalign cleaning crystals

If you decide to use the Retainer Brite Invisalign cleaning crystals it is recommended that these are used every day. the cleaning crystals are a great way to remove the biofilm which will build up on your Invisalign appliance each day. This biofilm is a naturally occurring layer which forms over your teeth, if it is not cleaned off it can then harden into tartar which can look unsightly and even make it difficult to get your Invisalign braces in.

Summary

Invisalign will always take a different amount of time depending on your clinical situation. Treatments anywhere between 6 and 12 months are to be expected. If you would like to book a consultation at our dental practice in Harrow,  please do visit our appointment request page.

 

Teeth Falling Out – Dreams, Myths and Facts

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit is the founder and principal dentist of Blue Court Dental. Patients enjoy his relaxed, friendly and gentle approach while experiencing his meticulous attention to detail. He has a special interest in providing smile makeovers, natural-looking white fillings and cosmetic braces, but also provides a range of treatments from preventative and general dental care to complex dental rehabilitation.
Dr Nishan Dixit

Latest posts by Dr Nishan Dixit (see all)

So many people have concerns about why teeth fall out, this is often borne out by the number of dreams we have about the topic! In this article we’ll take a look at the myths and facts about what really happens when teeth fall out… We’ll then also have a quick look at dreams!

let’s start by looking at how many teeth do adults have.

how many teeth does an adult have

Typically an adult will have 32 teeth, 16 on the top (8 each side) and the same on the bottom. The last teeth, labelled 8 in this diagram are the wisdom teeth and not everyone has these teeth come through.

Why do children lose their baby teeth?

The simple answer is down to size. A fully grown adult is much larger than a baby and therefore if the baby teeth were not lost then the teeth would not be big enough to enable the adult to eat adequately, the teeth would simply be too small.

Is it possible to lose baby teeth as an adult?

It is not uncommon for baby teeth to persist through to adult hood. The reason for this is the baby teeth don’t just fall out on their own, it is a process caused by the full-sized adult to growing up pushing through from underneath. If a baby tooth does not come out it was usually mean that the adult tooth underneath is either not present or is coming out in a different place to where it should. If it happens then the baby tooth doesn’t get pushed out.

Baby teeth, contrary to popular opinion, do actually have roots so if they last through to adulthood, whilst they are rather small, they can still be used for eating. The only reason that we don’t see any route when the baby teeth comes out is because it has been absorbed by the body as the adult tooth pushes through from behind.

Which diseases cause teeth to fall out?

There are 2 types of disease which cause teeth to fall out, the first is diseases directly affecting the tooth and/or surrounding tissue, and the second is diseases affecting the body which can affect your oral health.

Diseases directly affecting the tooth and/or surrounding tissue

The disease which will most likely ultimately result in tooth loss if left untreated is periodontitis. This is a severe inflammation of the surrounding bone and tissue is around the tooth. A precursor to periodontitis is the more easily treatable gingivitis. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the soft tissue (gum) which surrounds your tooth. Gingivitis progresses painlessly on the whole until it is in its more latter stages. Early treatment is therefore critical and also easy.

Diseases affecting the body which indirectly affect tooth loss

There are a range of diseases which have been linked in some way to tooth loss. It should however be noted that these are not always causal links (meaning that one disease may not cause the other).

A meta-analysis of a range of studies was conducted in 2009 by Mara Meyer et al, they looked at the relationship between tooth loss and oral , upper gastrointestinal, lung and pancreatic cancers in different populations.

In 3 of their studies they found links between pancreatic cancer and periodontal disease (the disease which leads to loss), however, they did not comment on the exact biological mechanisms involved and so conclusions are still rather difficult to draw.

Diabetes, on the other hand has stronger links. A professor of nursing in global health at Duke University in Durham said in a report published in 2015 that they have more evidence that poor oral health is related to diabetes, with diabetics using  approximately twice the number of teeth on average as those without the disease.

Heart disease also has links with tooth loss, although again, the exact connection between the 2 conditions is not fully understood. It is believed that the bacteria present in periodontitis is also present in patients with chronic heart conditions and that this bacteria may be a gateway bacteria for further heart problems.

Can stress cause your teeth to fall out?

Stress, will not directly cause your teeth fall out. However stress can lead to a lowering of the immune system in your body making you more likely to become susceptible to other diseases which may cause tooth loss. Tooth loss can be caused by various cancers, heart disease and diabetes – all of which are exacerbated by excessive stress.

If you are concerned about stress we recommend you take a look at the 10 Stress Busters on the NHS website

Does grinding your teeth cause them to fall out?

Grinding your teeth will cause them to wear down but won’t initially cause them to fall out. However, if you have additional dental diseases which result in loose teeth, such as gingivitis or periodontitis then grinding your teeth can exacerbate these conditions which could ultimately lead to tooth loss.

More information about teeth grinding can be found here, and here.

What can I do if my tooth fell out and now I have a hole?

If you have lost a permanent tooth and have a whole there are 4 options:

  • Do nothing. This can, however, result in the teeth either side and opposing the gap to drift, in the long run, this can affect your bite and the way your teeth meet.
  • Dentures. Modern dentures can be made to look highly aesthetic although most people don’t like the idea of removable dentures.
  • Fixed bridge. A fixed bridge can bridge the gap where the tooth has fallen out, however it does often require preparation/reduction of the teeth either side in order to accept the supporting part of the bridge.
  • Implants. Very often these are the most preferred option. Implants act as the replacement tooth root on top of which a new crown (the part of the tooth you see) is made.

Will periodontal disease definitely cause tooth loss?

Untreated periodontal disease will almost certainly cause tooth loss. However, if the periodontal disease is treated then teeth can be saved. It all depends on how advanced the disease is before treatment begins. If you are concerned that you have periodontal disease then we recommend you speak to your dentist as soon as possible. Remember, periodontal disease is the more serious form of gingivitis. Patients with gingivitis will typically have red, puffy or inflamed gums which bleed during flossing or brushing. If this gingivitis is left untreated infection can track down towards the route and cause the more serious periodontitis.

Teeth falling out dream – what does it mean?

So, you have a teeth falling out dream… What does it mean?

We’ve taken a look around the Internet and share with you 11 of the most common ideas about what dreaming of your teeth falling out means.

  1. Your dream may be associated with loss and important life changes.
  2. Worried concerned about dealing with stress.
  3. Major changes in your life are underway and you may be thinking about this.
  4. Concern about other people losing their teeth, particularly elderly relatives or children.
  5. You may be grinding your teeth yourself at night and dreaming about your teeth is your brain’s way of letting you know what you’re doing.
  6. Concerns about personal health. Perhaps you are concerned about your overall health? There may be a reason for this but sometimes it seems people dream about their teeth falling out whilst they are concerned about other health-related issues.
  7. Inferiority complexes, particularly feeling unattractive. Not many people like the idea of having to smile with no teeth, perhaps dreaming about them falling out is your minds way of reminding you that you have to deal with an inferiority complex?
  8. Being concerned about your appearance.
  9. Concerns about ageing.
  10. Concerns about your diet and what you may or may not be eating.
  11. Fear or anxiety about visiting the dentist. If this is you then speak to your dentist, let them know you are concerned and they can then take additional measures to help you relax.

Can you straighten teeth with veneers?

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit is the founder and principal dentist of Blue Court Dental. Patients enjoy his relaxed, friendly and gentle approach while experiencing his meticulous attention to detail. He has a special interest in providing smile makeovers, natural-looking white fillings and cosmetic braces, but also provides a range of treatments from preventative and general dental care to complex dental rehabilitation.
Dr Nishan Dixit

Latest posts by Dr Nishan Dixit (see all)

If you are researching straightening crooked teeth then you will know that there are a wide variety of options available from Invisalign or lingual braces to straighten crooked teeth invisibly, through to the Inman aligner which has the ability to straighten crooked teeth very quickly, right the way up to conventional fixed orthodontics which can straighten the most severely crooked teeth.

But did you know there are also quicker and simpler ways to straighten a few crooked front teeth?

Dental bonding and dental veneers can also be used to give the illusion of straighter teeth, but who does this type of teeth straightening? A dentist or orthodontist?

Difference between cosmetic dentistry and orthodontics

Orthodontics is very often thought about into distinct ways:

  • Functional orthodontics – This type of orthodontic treatment is because the teeth don’t bite together properly or there is some dramatic malocclusion which means there are additional problems such as jaw joint pain, headaches or the inability to eat and chew. There may or may not be cosmetic elements to this treatment.
  • Cosmetic orthodontics – This type of orthodontic treatment is primarily driven by a desire for the teeth to be straighter and look better, there may or may not be functional elements to this treatment.

Turning our attention to cosmetic dentistry, this is generally considered a treatment modality whereby we look to improve the appearance of the patients’ teeth, always taking into account the function.

Cosmetic dentistry has a range of treatments which can be used to fulfil that requirement, typical treatments could include:

  • Straightening crooked teeth
  • Rebuilding worn down or damaged teeth
  • Whitening dark teeth

As you can see, straightening crooked teeth is one of the treatments used within cosmetic dentistry… And this could definitely include orthodontics.

In summary, orthodontics can be cosmetic in its nature and cosmetic dentistry can include orthodontics as part of the treatment to design a new smile.

How can veneers straighten crooked teeth?

Dental veneers can be made from a variety of materials including high-strength porcelain and composite resin. Most of the time veneers don’t actually straighten the tooth  moreover, they give the impression of straightness when viewed from the front.

Straightening your tooth with a veneer is usually done when there are only a couple of teeth that are crooked.

Looking at this photograph from the front, if you look at the 2nd tooth from the centre on the right-hand side (this will be the patient’s left) you can see that this lateral tooth is rotated in as well as being misshapen.

straightening crooked tooth with veneers

A simple way to correct this misshapen and crooked tooth was to create an immediate dental veneer using a composite resin. This creates an instant result. In this case even if the tooth was moved with orthodontics it would still have been misshapen and required some bonding to achieve the full cosmetic result.

It’s also possible to correct more crooked front teeth with dental veneers, there are however some advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages of straightening crooked teeth with veneers

  • Quick – Can also be instant if composite resin bonding is used.
  • Can change the tooth colour.
  • Can change the shape of teeth.

Disadvantages of straightening crooked teeth with veneers

  • May require removal of healthy tooth structure in order to accept the new veneer.
  • Can, in some circumstances mean the tooth is quite thick due to the fact there is a natural tooth with a veneer bonded on the surface.
  • May need replacement at a later date as gums naturally resorb.
  • Can be susceptible to fracture.

Who does veneers, a dentist or orthodontist?

Now that we know that dental veneers can be used to straighten crooked teeth, who does them, a dentist or orthodontist?

In almost all circumstances it will be a dentist that undertakes the treatment of veneers. Generally speaking an orthodontist will be a specialist and dedicated solely to orthodontic treatments.

 

What can a cosmetic dentist do?

A cosmetic dentist will primarily be looking at resolving dental problems, rather than trying to prescribe a specific treatment… Therefore  a cosmetic dentist can:

  • Straighten crooked teeth.
  • Whitening dark teeth.
  • Rebuilt broken down, damaged or misshapen teeth.
  • Replacing missing teeth.

To do this, they use a range of specific treatments such as:

  1. Dental veneers – These can either be a porcelain veneer or immediate/direct composite material veneer. These require a small reduction to the front surface of your tooth enamel.
  2. Teeth whitening – This is often either performed in surgery or at home.
  3. Orthodontics – Usually simpler orthodontics are performed by the dentist with more complex cases being referred to a specialist orthodontist.
  4. Dental Crowns – Crowns are often used to restore teeth damaged by decay, ageing or trauma.
  5. Dental bridges – Used to replace missing teeth.
  6. Dental implants – Used to replace missing teeth.

At the same time as this there will also be looking out for your oral health to ensure that either your current or desired situation doesn’t compromise it.

There is therefore a wide range of skills utilised by cosmetic dentist to help create a beautiful smile for you.

Many cosmetic dentists will also be a member of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD), this is an organisation which seeks to help dentists achieve excellence in their cosmetic dental practice.

What is the process for a smile design?

The process with any dental treatment will always start with the patient. The concept of keeping the patient in complete control throughout is incredibly important for modern cosmetic dentists.

The smile design process will usually be something along the following lines:

  • Initial consultation to discuss your requirements.
  • Assessment of dental health, this is to ensure that your teeth and gums are in a good enough condition to begin cosmetic treatments that will then look good, function well and last.
  • Basic treatment planning, this will then give you a range of options for how you can achieve your desired result, this should also include a full treatment plan and pricing structure.
  • Diagnostic stages – This may include combinations of scans, x-rays and study models of your teeth.
  • Full treatment planning. From the diagnostic models your dentist and technician will be able to see where your teeth are now and work out the best way to get them looking the way you ideally want.
  • Trial smile – In some situations it is possible to provide a trial smile which can clip in over your existing teeth, this is not always possible and is usually only available if you have veneers crowns which require no reduction of your existing teeth, in reality this happens rarely.
  • Completed study models. You may not have a trial smile but you should be able to see your full completed smile on a model of your teeth, this will be constructive in advance by the technician. If you are having Invisalign then this is achieved with a digital trial smile known as a Clincheck.
  • Tooth preparation – Your teeth may then need to be prepared or trimmed down by the dentist, if they are trimmed then you will be provided with temporarily veneers or crowns.
  • Manufacture of your new veneers or crowns.
  • Fitting of the new veneers crowns.
  • Review of the process and treatment.

As ever, if you have any concerns or questions about straightening crooked teeth with either veneers or orthodontics your friendly dentist in Harrow is always here to help.

 

Do Braces Hurt?

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit is the founder and principal dentist of Blue Court Dental. Patients enjoy his relaxed, friendly and gentle approach while experiencing his meticulous attention to detail. He has a special interest in providing smile makeovers, natural-looking white fillings and cosmetic braces, but also provides a range of treatments from preventative and general dental care to complex dental rehabilitation.
Dr Nishan Dixit

Latest posts by Dr Nishan Dixit (see all)

We are very often asked a whole range of questions about the comfort of wearing dental braces. This blog post seeks to answer a range of these questions, particularly about braces being comfortable on your cheek and lips.

What is the effect of braces on face shape and lips?

You will usually not find that braces affect the shape of your face and lips unless you have a tooth which is particularly sticking out, you might find that until this tooth moves that the brace over this area stands out more noticeably.

If you have a tooth which sticks out and you’re worried that the shape of your lip will be affected then it’s worth asking about different types of braces. Some types of braces fit on the inside of your teeth and therefore don’t affect your face shape and lips. Other braces, such as Invisalign used ultra-thin clear aligners rather than conventional brackets and wires. These also can be more imperceptible than conventional orthodontic braces.

How do I stop biting my cheek after I get braces?

Biting your cheek after braces can be quite a common problem. You might bite your cheek once by accident but this area then swells and you end up biting it more often, creating a vicious circle. If you bite your cheek try eating on the other side and using a baby teething gel to relieve pain.

Using baby teething gel to help orthodontic brace pain

Orthodontic wax
Image credit: www.sunstargum.com

If you have fixed orthodontic braces then make sure you apply your orthodontic wax over this area to ensure that your cheek doesn’t rub on the braces.

 

Do braces hurt?

Typically braces don’t hurt although there might be some mild discomfort. Whenever you have a new aligner (if you are having Invisalign) or have your wire adjusted then you will feel the initial pressure on your teeth. This can reveal itself as mild discomfort or feelings of sensitivity. You should however find that this begins to disappear after approximately 3 days. It’s also worth bearing in mind that each time you go the same procedure will cause the same feelings of discomfort, simply being aware of this fact can help enormously.

Do braces hurt during the procedure?

If you are having a removable orthodontic brace such as an Inman aligner or Invisalign then there will be no discomfort at all during the procedure. The only discomfort you might encounter is during the initial impression stages, many people dislike the impression goo which dentist use. If this is you then it will be worth looking out for a dentist which uses a digital scanner to take a 3-D photographic scan of your teeth rather than have to have the conventional impression. This can make the whole procedure of having braces extremely comfortable.

Even if you are having fixed orthodontic braces the procedure is also painless. You may, however, notice some mild discomfort a few days after the braces fitted whilst your teeth adjust to being under the pressure of orthodontic treatment. Staying power is of prime importance with orthodontic braces, not just when the braces are applied but afterward to ensure you get the best results.

How do I prevent braces from rubbing the inside of my cheek?

The secret here is to always use the wax which your orthodontist or dentist provides for you. The wax is easily mouldable to fit over the orthodontic brace/bracket and stick to it. It then ensures that the inside of your cheek glides smoothly over the wire and brackets without rubbing.

How long does it take for you to get used to braces?

You should find you get used to orthodontic braces quite quickly. You may find that you need to adjust your diet (avoiding sticky foods) and possibly sticking to soft foods initially. You might also require some over-the-counter pain relievers if you get any discomfort immediately after the braces are fitted.

How will your face change after dental braces?

no teethDental braces can have a dramatic impact on the way your face looks… If you want them to that is. Your teeth play a large part in supporting your lips and giving the appearance of use, just look at a photograph of someone without any teeth, their lips are wrinkled and they automatically look old even if they are not. Your orthodontic dentist will take this phenomenon into account when planning your treatment.

It’s also possible that during the process of moving your teeth you are able to exercise facial muscles in a new way. The muscles in your face can then build giving your face more defined features which is often a huge benefit.

Is it different playing an instrument with braces?

If you play a musical instrument such as the flute, clarinet or trumpet then it’s worth mentioning this to your dentist prior to going ahead with braces. You may find that having a removable orthodontic brace works better for you if you play such an instrument. You can then take the brace out whilst you play ensuring that you maintain your embouchure.

Photo by Toomaj F. Bungs from Pexels
Photo by Toomaj F. Bungs from Pexels

If the musical instrument you play involves a mouthpiece that your teeth rest on, such as a clarinet it’s worth considering that your teeth may have made an indentation in the mouthpiece of the instrument. As your teeth move they may not fit into this old indentation quite so well, meaning that your instrument playing might be affected. You may need to consider a new mouthpiece during or after orthodontic treatment.

How do you treat pain produced by the rubber bands in braces?

Just to be clear it’s not the elastic bands which cause any discomfort or pain, it is likely to be the brackets around which the bands are placed. The best way to keep paying to a minimum with these is to ensure that you apply the orthodontic wax which will be given to you when the braces fitted.

How long does it take to get braces put on?

You can usually expect an appointment for a couple of hours to have braces put on. If you are having Invisalign braces then the appointment will be much less as there is no actual fitting to be done.

Summary

We hope this article has given use and detailed information about the different types of pain or discomfort associated with different types of orthodontic brace. On the whole orthodontic braces don’t hurt and any discomfort can be easily remedied with pain relief bought in your local pharmacy. It’s also worth noting that this discomfort is temporary and should only last a few days after the braces are fitted and/or tightened.

10 Interesting Questions About Dental Implants

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit is the founder and principal dentist of Blue Court Dental. Patients enjoy his relaxed, friendly and gentle approach while experiencing his meticulous attention to detail. He has a special interest in providing smile makeovers, natural-looking white fillings and cosmetic braces, but also provides a range of treatments from preventative and general dental care to complex dental rehabilitation.
Dr Nishan Dixit

Latest posts by Dr Nishan Dixit (see all)

How strong are dental implants compared to real teeth?

As you will know, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. A tooth implant has many links so it is clear to identify what we mean when we are talking about the strength of the implant. They are made up of the following:

 

  1. The implant itself which is implanted into your jawbone
  2. A trans-mucosal element which connects the dental implant under the gum to the restoration of the gum
  3. The screw which screws in the trans-mucosal element into the implant
  4. The restoration on top, the part that you see.

Some implant systems blend a few of these elements together, however the list above is relatively standard.

In times of extreme force applied to the restoration we don’t always want that force transmitted down to the dental implant. If the tooth implant were to fail then it can be a very costly procedure, therefore sometimes implants are designed with this screw which connects the transmucosal element to the implant as a failsafe mechanism. If too much force is applied to the restoration then this screw breaks, this protects the dental implant itself and means the repair, by way of replacing the screw is relatively simple, cheap and quick to do.

Nothing is as good as your natural teeth so we always recommend treating implants as second-best to keeping your natural teeth wherever possible.

Why are implants best for tooth replacement?

One of the things your dentist will always be wanting to do is to keep as much of your mouth intact and as healthy as possible. Dental bridges often mean reduction of the teeth either side of the gap in order to accept the new single tooth replacement. A dental implant on the other hand does not require reduction of adjacent teeth.

A dental implant also can help to stabilise gum in your jaw bone around the new tooth or teeth. When a tooth is lost the surrounding bone tends to collapse into the gap, this can lead to a loss of bone height around the gap. Having a dental implant placed immediately after a tooth is lost can help to prevent bone grafting in the future.

What are the pros and cons?

Dental implant pros:

  1. Can look like natural teeth.
  2. Support the surrounding bone and prevent it resorbing.
  3. Often the most cost-effective option when considered over the life of the implant.
  4. A wide range of options on how to restore the implant including crowns, bridges and dentures.
  5. Can last for many years.

Dental implant cons:

  1. May be the most expensive way to replace missing teeth in the short-term.
  2. A lengthy procedure including implant surgery.

Do dental implants work like real teeth?

A successful implant can work exactly the way a natural tooth works. They effectively work as a replacement tooth, looking and working the same as a natural tooth.

However:

  1. A dental implant does not have a periodontal ligament around it like a natural tooth, this acts like a suspension mechanism to protect the tooth. All forces placed onto the dental implants are transmitted directly to the bone.
  2. The dental implant does not have any nerves and so you cannot feel any pain or sensation through the dental implant

What do they really feel like?

Once an implant is placed and the teeth and gums have healed then the restoration attached to the implants will feel like natural teeth. The only exception to this rule is if you have removable dentures.

Which is better, dental implants or bridging?

Bridging often involves removing tooth structure from teeth either side of the gap that you wish to fill. If this tooth structure is healthy then this can mean potentially compromising the dental care of adjacent teeth. Dental implants on the other hand do not need to involve teeth either side of the gap meaning they are a more conservative option.

What’s better, dental implant or partial denture?

Modern dentures can look extremely lifelike and be very effective. However if you have a partial denture it will almost certainly have some form of clasp around the tooth as well as a plastic area which touches the gum and other teeth. A poorly fitted partial denture can irritate this delicate gum and cause recession.

Partial dentures are however much cheaper than dental implants but because that are often made of plastic have a much higher fracture rate.

Are dental implants safe?

With proper care and attention as well as a dedicated dental team dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%. The implant itself will invariably be made of medical grade titanium, amazingly the human body does not recognise titanium as a foreign object and so the bone will fully integrate with the dental implant. This makes titanium a truly biocompatible material to use.

Why are dental implants necessary?

Implants are never necessary. They are always an elective procedure. An important option is always ‘do nothing’, you in your dentist should always consider the ‘do nothing’ option for any treatment, weigh up the alternatives and decide if any treatment is right for you. The definition of ‘right’ will always be an individual decision based upon:

  1. Desired results.
  2. Affordability.
  3. Timeframe.
  4. Acceptability of treatment e.g. surgery etc.

 

Is a dental implant painful?

A common question is do dental implants hurt? Whenever you have any invasive dental procedure you will always be given a numbing injection. This is usually the most painful part of any treatment.

To help with the injection we recommend asking your dentist to use a numbing topical gel first, this gel gently numbs the gum so that when the needle goes in there is minimal pain.

You may also find that there is some mild discomfort after the dental implant has been placed, particularly in the days immediately after the surgery. Over the counter painkillers can usually help with this and the pain normally subsides after a few days.

How many implants am I likely to need?

This depends on exactly what your situation is. Dental implants are normally used to treat 2 groups of people:

  1. People with missing teeth
  2. People with loose or unstable dentures

In both cases the outcome is the same, implants restore your ability to smile, eat, chew and laugh again with confidence. Many patients also find that their dignity is restored and their ‘dental comfort’ is massively improved.

For people with missing teeth (or tooth), without dentures

If you have more than one tooth missing, then we will often place 2 (or even more implants) and ‘bridge’ the gaps as highlighted by the arrow in this photograph.

The custom made crowns that fit over the top of implants ensure that you will not see any metal and will be made to blend in to your surrounding teeth invisibly… no-one will ever know you ever had teeth missing.

If you have all your teeth missing then you will either need a denture, or a ‘full arch implant bridge’, dentures are explained below, but a full arch bridge will usually involve the placement of around 4-12 dental implants (it depends on your exact situation as to how many you will need).

Screwed gently to these implants will be a full new set of teeth which you are not able to remove yourself (we can remove them for deep dental cleaning periodically).

This is often the preferred option for patients with no remaining teeth as often a full arch bridge can be made to look exactly like your own teeth.

In some instances, with all implants, we may find that additional surgical treatments such as bone grafting are required. These are explained later on in this guide, but only a full clinical assessment by one of our implant specialists will tell for sure.

For people with missing teeth with dentures

If you currently have dentures and find that they are loose, then dental implants can help enourmously. We simply place 2 or 4 implants gently in to your mouth, then place some ‘clips’ inside the denture (like a press-stud), this means you will hear an audible click as your denture locks in to place.

Depending on your exact situation we may decide that making a new denture is best for you, or we may even be able to convert your existing denture.

So if you wear dentures and feel you are not able to go out for a great meal with your friends then this could be a perfect solution for you.

Blue Court Dental Centre provides dental implants in Harrow for the local people, including Wembley, Stanmore and Greenford.

Ways to manage your dentist fear

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit is the founder and principal dentist of Blue Court Dental. Patients enjoy his relaxed, friendly and gentle approach while experiencing his meticulous attention to detail. He has a special interest in providing smile makeovers, natural-looking white fillings and cosmetic braces, but also provides a range of treatments from preventative and general dental care to complex dental rehabilitation.
Dr Nishan Dixit

Latest posts by Dr Nishan Dixit (see all)

The British Dental Association estimate that around 25% of the UK population suffer from some form of dental anxiety with around 12% having extreme fears affecting their ability to attend the dentist.

Visiting the dentist is key to ensuring that your oral health remains good. Without good dental health gum disease can take hold meaning that more dental treatment is possibly required, thereby exacerbating the dental fear.

Finding ways to relax and stay calm at the dentist is what this blog post is all about.

Why are we scared of dentists?

The first thing to understand is that fear is a learned behaviour, think about it, we aren’t born afraid of the dentist, it is something that we have learnt to do as we have got older. Accepting this is an extremely beneficial thing to do as it means that if we can learn to be afraid then we can also learn to relax and be calm.

 

Fear of pain is one of the most common reasons people cite for being scared of the dentist, this is quite understandable especially if people have had bad experiences in the past. What is worth noting is that modern dental care has made extremely big advances in recent years. With topical numbing gels and fine needles injections can be extremely comfortable with no pain, this then also leads to painfree treatments.

Will dentists judge me and my teeth?

This is often another common reason people give for not visiting the dentist, a dentist is not there to judge or to criticise, we are here to help, encourage and educate you about how to stay dentally fit and healthy. A dentist cannot achieve this goal if they are judgemental so you will find that any good dentist will support and encourage you and not be judgmental.

What are my options if I’m afraid of the dentist?

The really important thing to understand is that you do have options. It’s quite common that people feel they have no options, especially nervous or anxious patients.

A good dentist that specialises in treating anxious or nervous patients will ensure you have as many options available to you as possible. Here are your options:

  1. Talking to your dentist. You should always ensure you have a dentist you can trust and talk to, a good dentist will take time to listen to your concerns and ensure they take your anxiety into account.
  2. Ensuring you stay in control. Make sure you agree a stop signal with the dentist before any treatment begins. Simply knowing that you can raise your hand at any point to take a quick break means you’re in control and can really help you relax.
  3. Breathe slowly and gently. Breathing slowly and gently helps muscle relaxation generally, if you just breathe slowly and gently throughout your treatment you will find you stay more relaxed.
  4. Ask about sedation. Some dentists offer gas and air via inhalation sedation. This can also help if you are feeling anxious.

How to stop being scared of the dentist

Relaxation techniques are a great way to stop being scared of the dentist. Understanding that fear of the dentist is a learned behaviour and can therefore be unlearnt is a key principle to accept.

Practising breathing techniques both before your appointment and during treatment can also help.

Requesting an early morning appointment is also a great way to ensure that any dental phobia is contained to a short period early in the day, rather than allowed to build throughout the day.

You may also find of bringing a friend with you can help to keep you calm.

Good ways to relax and calm the mind at the dentist

  • Enjoy a cup of green tea. Green tea has been shown to have a chemical, L-Theanine, which has been shown to elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain which can help you relax.
  • Chew sugarfree gum. This can help to keep saliva flowing and prevent your mouth from drying out. It’s also been shown to lower anxiety and control cortisol levels. Of course you can’t do this whilst in the chair!
  • Remember to breathe slowly and gently. You could do this in the waiting room of the dental practice and during treatment to help relax.
  • Visualise your happy place. Most people have a happy place that they think of, this could be a holiday or a time you spent with friends. Visualising this whole experience can be extremely relaxing and calming.
  • Listen to calming music. This type of music can be different for each person but listening to the music you find relaxing and peaceful can also help you with your dental anxiety.

We hope you have found the information contained in this blog post useful, our dental practice in Harrow is a friendly and calm practice, taking time to listen to your needs and concerns and help out wherever required with any dental fears.

Just remember, it’s good to talk…

 

Why do I have tooth sensitivity?

Many people suffer from sensitive teeth for a variety of reasons, this article highlights why you may suddenly develop sensitive teeth, what you can do about it at home, what treatments the dentist may be able to offer you and how to reduce the pain from tooth sensitivity.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

diagram of a toothYour teeth are made up of three primary layers:

  1. The nerve and pulp. This is the deepest living part of your tooth, it contains the nerve and has blood flowing through it to keep your tooth alive, it is protected by two out of protection layers.
  2. The dentine. This is the softer portion of your tooth, it gives the tooth it’s primary colour and its role is to support the hard yet brittle outer enamel.
  3. The enamel. This is the hardest substance in the human body and protects the outer portion of your tooth.

Sensitivity occurs when hot or cold substances, such as eating ice cream, get too close to the nerve, there are many reasons this could happen, including:

  • Tooth wear caused by over brushing.
  • Gum recession caused by over by over brushing or general ageing.
  • Cracked teeth caused by trauma.
  • Decay in teeth caused by poor oral hygiene.
  • Tooth grinding or clenching.

Why are my teeth suddenly sensitive?

The key to understanding this is to think about how the hot or cold feeling may be getting through to the nerve. If you have had a recent trauma then perhaps the tooth is correct. If you haven’t been to the dentist for a while perhaps there is an area of tooth which is decayed.

The image below shows gum tissue recession around the gum line, possibly caused by over brushing. The enamel is thin in this area which can easily lead to teeth sensitivity.

Image Credit: www.implantdentist.co.nz/procedures/gum-regeneration/
Image Credit: www.implantdentist.co.nz/procedures/gum-regeneration/

If you can’t immediately identify what the problem is then visiting a dentist or dental hygienist may be best option.

How do you stop sensitive teeth pain

If you have sensitive teeth with no obvious cause then you may find that using a protection and relief toothpaste such as Sensodyne may help.

How does Sensodyne work?

These toothpastes work because there are tiny holes, called tubules, in the dentine of your tooth. If the enamel becomes eroded away then these tubules can transmit the hot and cold through your tooth. These toothpastes work by quickly creating a barrier so that the hot and cold feeling can’t be transmitted to the nerve.

However, it’s worth noting that these types of toothpastes WILL NOT work if the sensitivity is caused by excessive enamel or dentine loss such as cavities, excessive wear or cracks caused by trauma.

How long does tooth sensitivity last?

Tooth sensitivity is usually only instantaneous when the nerve becomes exposed to hot or cold. Remove the hot or cold and the sensitivity goes away. However, the reality is that this is not practical to do on a day by day basis, we have to eat and drink after all! Unfortunately, if your teeth are sensitive they won’t get better on their own, you will either need to use a relief and protection toothpaste or visit a dentist to ascertain why your teeth are sensitive.

What does the dentist do for sensitive teeth?

The basic premise for reducing tooth sensitivity is to protect the outer surface of the tooth to prevent the hot and cold sensations been transmitted through to the nerve, or in extreme circumstances to remove the nerve itself. There are a variety of ways of treating sensitivity at the dentist, including but not limited to:

  • Fluoride treatments to strengthen tooth enamel. These fluoride gels can be applied topically at the dentist or trays can be provided for use at home.
  • Bonding. Composite bonding materials can be used to bonded to the outer surface of the tooth to rebuild the enamel where it has been lost. This can cover up the dentin hypersensitivity.
  • Surgical gum graft (Please see the explanation video below). If the sensitivity is caused by excessive gum resorption which exposes the more sensitive root of the tooth then a gum graft to replacing some of the gum tissue may be undertaken to cover up some of this exposed area around the gum line.
  • Root canal. In extreme circumstances a root canal can be used to remove the nerve of the tooth. This is not normally a preferred option and will only be undertaken in extreme circumstances.

Summary

One of the key things to focus on is brushing your teeth and maintaining good dental care throughout your life, ensuring you brush and floss regularly. Tooth sensitivity is a common problem, particularly in later life as the gum becomes more exposed and the teeth wear. Certainly, this is one of the best ways to prevent tooth sensitivity. If you are older then be aware about using a soft bristled toothbrush, watching to ensure you don’t consume too many acidic foods and drinks and be aware if you grind your teeth. Cold air can also affect sensitivity, so you may find you need to wear a scarf in cold weather.

 

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit is the founder and principal dentist of Blue Court Dental. Patients enjoy his relaxed, friendly and gentle approach while experiencing his meticulous attention to detail. He has a special interest in providing smile makeovers, natural-looking white fillings and cosmetic braces, but also provides a range of treatments from preventative and general dental care to complex dental rehabilitation.
Dr Nishan Dixit

Latest posts by Dr Nishan Dixit (see all)

What alternatives are there to amalgam fillings?

One of the things most dental practices want to do is to offer you alternatives to treatments, having a dental filling is no exception. There are a wide range of options when it comes to treating tooth decay with a dental filling and in this blog post, our Harrow dentist, Dr Nishan Dixit discusses what alternatives there are to the classic silver amalgam filling.

Types of dental fillings in the UK

There are a variety of materials that can be used for a dental filling, each is selected depending upon the material properties, what the material needs to do and your clinical situation. Those materials include:

  • Amalgam (silver coloured fillings).
  • Composite (white fillings).
  • Porcelain ( white fillings).
  • Gold.

Amalgam Filling Alternatives

There are a few alternatives to amalgam fillings, these typically include restorative materials such as glass ionomer white fillings, composite white fillings, porcelain white fillings and even gold fillings although these are not used very often nowadays.

Amalgam fillings

Amalgam fillings are still commonly used in the UK, particularly in NHS dental practices. The material is relatively cheap, easy to work with and durable. Amalgam silver fillings contain a mixture of silver, tin and copper which is bound together with mercury.

Mercury poisoning is a concern of many people with amalgam fillings. The most risky time for release of free mercury is during placement and/or removal of an amalgam filling, this is due to release of mercury vapour. Having an amalgam filling removed can potentially release more mercury than leaving it in place.

Several studies have shown that the amount of mercury released from fillings is extremely low, especially when left in place. However, due to their typically unsightly nature and potential to release mercury many patients are preferring to opt for a more cosmetic option.

Another problem with amalgam fillings is that you can get what is known as an amalgam tattoo. This is where the dark silver colour from the amalgam shows through the front surface of the tooth creating a dark effect around the gum making it look like it has a tattoo.

Composite fillings

These are one of the most commonly used alternatives to mercury fillings. Composite fillings are mercury free and are often a blend of fine ceramic particles mixed with a composite material which sets when a special light is shone on it. The composite comes in a variety of tooth coloured shades so your dentist can select the right one for you. Composite fillings may wear faster than your natural teeth so you may need to have them replaced a little more often.

Amalgam fillings versus composite*

Property

Amalgam

Composite
Wear (1 highest 5 lowest) 3 4
Fracture resistance (1 worst 5 best) 3 4
Cost (1 expensive 5 cheaper) 4 2
Loss of tooth structure (1 least 5 most) 4 2
Health concerns (1 unhealthy 5 healthiest) 1 4

How long do white fillings last?

White fillings typically last up to 10 years. Data shows that after five years approximately 75% of fillings remain. This has reduced to 50% after nine years. This is based upon research undertaken in 2001.

Can you have White fillings on front teeth?

Yes, white fillings on front teeth are often called dental bonding. They can either simply replace a small decayed area or cover the whole of the front of the tooth. They can also be used to add to teeth to make the teeth longer, if worn down, or to change the shape of a tooth.

Are there any side effects from white fillings?

Unlike amalgam where people are concerned about the side-effects from mercury, white fillings have a few inherent side-effects related specifically to the material used. Any side effects from a white filling are common to all types of filling and include:

  • Numbing of the area due to the anaesthetic used.
  • Sensitivity of the tooth for a few days afterwards.

 

How long after a filling can I eat

This depends upon the type of filling you have had, amalgam takes approximately 24 hours to harden completely, during this time you should eat softer foods and avoid anything sticky. The white filling is set and made completely hard by curing the composite with a light in the dental surgery. This theoretically means that you can eat straightaway after a white filling.

We do however recommend caution as you probably will have had an anaesthetic to numb the area whilst the filling was placed. It is better to  wait until the anaesthetic subsides before eating as you should be careful of biting your cheek and tongue as these area are still numb.

*Subjective data based on experience. Individual properties may vary depending upon the size, position and age of the restorations including the skill of the dentist that placed the original restoration.

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit

Dr Nishan Dixit is the founder and principal dentist of Blue Court Dental. Patients enjoy his relaxed, friendly and gentle approach while experiencing his meticulous attention to detail. He has a special interest in providing smile makeovers, natural-looking white fillings and cosmetic braces, but also provides a range of treatments from preventative and general dental care to complex dental rehabilitation.
Dr Nishan Dixit

Latest posts by Dr Nishan Dixit (see all)

‘Teenager happy with natural, durable restorations’ – As seen in Dentistry

Blue Court Dental Centre

Latest posts by Blue Court Dental Centre (see all)

Dr Nishan Dixit describes a case where submerged primary molars were restored using a simple technique with Venus Pearl composite.

Nishan Dixit

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