It is a well know fact that a great smile is one of the best features about an individual. The teeth are one of the first things that are looked at when meeting somebody. Those who are embarrassed to smile due to an unsightly smile are often thought of as aloof or unfriendly. This is generally far from the truth. Modern dentistry now allows us to straighten teeth quickly, discreetly and comfortably producing wonderful results. Therefore, if you lack the confidence to smile or hide your teeth with your hand when speaking with others then you must come and visit us as soon as possible. You could end up with a beautiful smile as our client below. Have a look at the photos:
 

Our dental tip of the week involves teeth whitening. Teeth whitening can be achieved without expensive treatments by following these simple steps: 

1. Visit the dental hygienist. Stain removal will instantly whiten your teeth and keep your gums healthy.

2. Avoid staining foods and drinks. These include coffee, strong tea especially green tea, dark berries, artificial colourings and curries.

3. Use an electric toothbrush. High quality electric brushes are far better at removing stain than manual toothbrushes.

4. Use teeth whitening strips. These are inexpensive and do not require any messy gels or impressions. Teeth whitening need not be an arduous, expensive procedure. 

Start the process and contact us to book your hygiene visit now.

We are delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for the Best Dental Practice and Best Team awards in London at the Dentistry awards. The Dentistry awards are the largest dental awards ceremony in our profession and to be shortlisted for the final is a great honour. We believe that the service we offer is second to none and the awards go a small way to justifying our belief. We continue to innovate and be the most progressive dental practice in London. 

Please keep an eye on our news section and learn more about what Progressive Dentistry can do for you.

In the dark days of dentistry, teeth straightening used to be an arduous process involving many months or years of treatment. However, with the modern advances in cosmetic dentistry, mild crowding problems can often be corrected within a matter of weeks. One of our favoured techniques is the Social 6 lingual brace. As the name suggests, the brace is placed on the front 6 teeth but on the INSIDE of the teeth. Therefore this technique is the truly INVISIBLE brace as it is not detectable to the eye. Seeing is believing. Here is a recent case that was completed to treat mild crowding of the lower front teeth:
 

Did you know that we offer direct access to our dental hygienist through our walk-in service? As of May, this year, the General Dental Council (GDC) granted permission for members of the public to see the dental hygienist WITHOUT having to be referred by a dentist. Therefore, all you have to do is call us, e mail us or book online to see Jenny directly.

Why is dental hygiene so important? Here are 5 reasons why you should visit the dental hygienist at least twice a year:

1. Dental plaque is the main cause of dental disease - removing plaque will reduce your risks of developing dental problems.

2. Halitosis is caused mainly by poor oral hygiene - bad breath is not a desirable feature!

3. Poor gum health is linked to many systemic diseases such as heart disease and respiratory disease. Why increase your risk when you can see a hygienist straight away.

4. Poor oral hygiene can lead to periodontal disease and ultimately tooth loss - prevention is far better than cure and there is NO direct cure for periodontal disease.

5. Clean teeth look great, healthy and fresh.

You will be amazed at the difference a visit to the hygienist can make. So why wait. Book your dental hygiene visit today- you will not regret it.

We have a certain expertise in a number of dental fields and dental implants is one of these. Dental implants are widely acknowledged as being the best replacement for missing teeth or failing teeth. For those of you that are not aware of dental implants, here are a 7 facts:

1. Implants are made from titanium.

2. Titanium is bio compatible with the human body. It is also used in hip replacements for example. 

3. The jaw bone is able to grow around and fuse to the dental implants- a process called osseointegration. 

4. Teeth attached to the dental implants are called implant retained crowns. They are not implants. 

5. The success rate of implants is very high, approaching 90% in general and higher. This is one of the highest success rate in dentistry. 

6. The teeth implants will not decay or ever need a root canal treatment. However, general maintenance is required and thorough cleaning. 

7. There are many systems available. Each of these systems will have evidence supporting their success. It is important to discuss this with your dentist. 

Our case study involves the replacement of a back tooth with an Astra Tech dental implant.
 

Our case of the month for October is a tooth whitening case using one of our most popular techniques: take home trays. Teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dental treatment. Having whiter, brighter teeth that look clean and healthy is desirable and confidence boosting. The treatment is available to all with their own teeth!
  

THE PROCESS

1. A full clinical examination is required prior to any cosmetic dental procedure.
2. It is highly advised that you visit the hygienist prior to any tooth whitening procedure.
3. Impressions are then taken of your teeth. 
4. The specially made trays are fitted and a demonstration is required to show how to use the whitening gel properly. 
5. The trays and gel are worn for 1 hour a day over 2 weeks. 
6. Whiter teeth! 
7. The trays and gel can be used as a top up over the following months/ years. A typical example is presented below:
 

Patients with stained teeth who come to see us in the quest for whiter teeth ask us about the professional treatments on offer to fulfil their wish for whiter, cleaner looking teeth.

Patients also frequently ask what causes staining and how to avoid it. Most staining is easily removed during a routine scale and polish, but some things that cause staining can also cause long-term damage to natural teeth as well as fillings and veneers.

- Cigarettes, as well as cigars and betel nut/tobacco chewing. Stoptober has started, it's never too late quit smoking. 

- Some mouthwashes, in particular Corsodyl. After around a week of use, will start to cause a brown/yellow stain on the teeth. This mouthwash should only be used on your dental professionals advice. Try Peroxyl as an alternative to help tackle gum disease, its oxygen producing formula is great for killing off bacteria. Any strong mouthwash should be used in the short-term only, and doesn't replace the effectiveness of brushing/flossing.

- The mixture of tannin and acid in Red Wine is a well known stain producing drink. White anyone?

- Tea and Coffee both contribute to staining. Try swapping espresso for a milkier alternative to avoid heavy staining and add milk to tea. Beware of some Herbal Teas, they are some of the worst offenders. We notice that good quality (preferably organic) herbal tea will cause less staining than cheaper options

- Richly coloured sauces and spices

- Beware of sports drinks, they are highly acidic, which makes teeth more susceptible to taking on the colouring in the drink. Drink water to avoid this problem, or coconut water after exercising which will help to naturally hydrate you as it is full of natural electrolytes.

If you have any questions regarding stained teeth or how to whiten your teeth, please do not hesitate to contact us.