Our case of the month for September is one which involves dental implants to replace missing back teeth. It is crucial to replace missing teeth at the back for a number of reasons. These involve: 

1. To restore function. Without back teeth or molar teeth, it is very hard to chew food. 

2. To prevent unwanted movement of the adjacent or opposing teeth. This could have a detrimental effect on the occlusion (bite) and cause major dental issues for the future. 

3. To prevent the jaw bone from shrinking which can result in causing the soft tissue to shrink. 

4. Aesthetics. Having gaps at the back of the mouth can still be seen. Dark space is not attractive. 

5. For general well being, physical and psychological. In our case, the missing teeth were two molar teeth on the upper right hand side. 

Please view a photograph:
 

We are delighted to announce that Philips Whitespeed Zoom whitening is now available at Progressive Dentistry. Zoom is the most recognized tooth whitening brand in dentistry for good reason. The new LED accelerator offers gentle but fantastic results in only 1 hour! If you have yellow, dark, discoloured teeth and would like them whitened in just one visit, then Whitespeed Zoom whitening could be for you. With every treatment, we provide a take home kit to continue the whitening process and maintain the results. Below is an example of the results that are possible:
 

We are delighted to announce a fantastic lingual brace offer for September. A full arch lingual brace is now just £2000, saving £1500 (usual fee £3500). 

Lingual braces are the truly invisible brace as they are placed on the inside of the teeth. If you would like a discreet way of straightening your teeth, then lingual braces could be the answer. In many cases, lingual braces are also extremely quick. Mild crowding could be corrected in just a few weeks! To learn more, please view a recent case study:
 

It is that time of year again- back to school. The summer holidays are over and the new school year begins. Oh well, never mind, it will be half term soon! Here are some useful tips on maintaining your child's oral health for the new school year:

1. Avoid sugary drinks. Fizzy drinks are especially bad. Did you know that a can of cola contains 4 tablespoons of sugar. Yes, that is correct- tablespoons not teaspoons.
2. Avoid snacking on processed snacks such as the weird and wonderful shaped crisps. These can be very sticky and difficult to remove. They also contain starch. A recipe for tooth decay.
3. Brush twice a day for 2 minutes. A timer is useful.
4. Use a fluoride mouthwash after brushing especially at night time. There are many children's versions available. They key is not to swallow- gargle for 30 second and spit. Do not rinse with water afterwards.
5. Use plaque disclosing tablets. These are ideal at night to avoid a pink mouth at school!
6. Visit the dentist and hygienist twice a year. 

At Progressive Dentistry, we offer FREE children's examinations with a registered parent. Developing good dental habits at a young age is vital- prevention is better than cure.