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Lingual Braces vs Clear Braces – Which Invisible Treatment is Best for You?

March 23rd, 2017

Increasingly, patients with orthodontic issues are searching for invisible solutions. Today, we’re fortunate enough to have some incredible options to choose from. If you’re hoping to undergo orthodontic treatment in secret, you may be thinking about clear braces or lingual braces, but which is best for you? Here is some more information, and some pros and cons to help you decide.

About Clear Braces

Clear braces can be either fixed or removable. Removable aligners like Simpli5 and Invisalign are very popular, but you can also get very discreet fixed braces, which are made using clear components. Popular examples include CFast and Six Month Smiles. Clear braces aren’t technically invisible, but they are very tricky to spot when you smile. If you would prefer the freedom of a removable brace, a system like Invisalign may be a good option for you. If you prefer the reliability of a fixed brace, CFast or 6 Month Smiles could be a perfect match. Removable aligners tend to be more discreet than fixed braces, but their success is dependent on you wearing your brace for the recommended time each day.

What are Lingual Braces?

When you think of braces, you probably imagine train-track style braces that sit on your teeth. Lingual braces are similar to this concept, but they are fitted to the back of your teeth. This means that you can smile away to your heart’s content without anyone being able to see your braces. Lingual braces can be geared towards those with minor or complex issues, and they offer a great solution for people who really don’t want the hassle of wearing visible braces. Perhaps you have reservations about how wearing braces could affect your career or you just don’t want people to judge you in any way. With lingual braces, you don’t have to worry about how your braces will affect your image. Fixed braces don’t always have to take a long time either. With STb Social 6, a system that is designed to correct minor imperfections that affect the front teeth, we can achieve results in just 6-16 weeks. Lingual braces can be more expensive than clear braces, and they tend to be a little uncomfortable to begin with.

If you’re interested in invisible braces, why not call us today and find out more about which system could offer the best benefits for you?

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Top Five Ways to Unwind in Liverpool After Treatment

March 22nd, 2017

If you’ve had dental treatment, you probably want to chill out and unwind. Our prime location in Liverpool’s vibrant city centre is the perfect place to spend some time relaxing after a trip to the dentist. If you’ve got a bit of time to spare in Liverpool, here are 5 top ways to unwind:

  1. Take advantage of our spa services: at Liverpool Dental Spa, we don’t just want you to leave without any pain or to walk out of the door with a brand new beautiful smile. We also want you to feel relaxed. We offer a range of spa services and facilities aimed to help you feel calm and comfortable. You can cosy up with a blanket, some DVDs and some aromatherapy oils or we can arrange a treatment for you.
  2. Shopping: shopping is not everyone’s idea of relaxation, but for many, a bit of retail therapy is just what the dentist ordered after a session in the dental chair. Liverpool boasts some of the best shopping in the UK. Start your day at Liverpool One, and you’re guaranteed to feel relaxed in no time at all.
  3. Set sail on the Mersey: if you fancy blowing the cobwebs away after visiting the dental clinic, a journey across the Mersey may be just what you need. There are various stops available, and you can learn all about the history of the ferries and the importance of the famous River Mersey.
  4. Enjoy a drink at the Albert Dock: the Albert Dock is famed for its daytime TV appearances, but now it’s also a lively hub full of bars, cafes and museums. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink and a catch up with friends.
  5. Take a spin on the big wheel: if you’re keen to see the city, it’s worth taking a ride on the big wheel. You’ll see right out to sea and enjoy stunning views of the bustling city below.

If you’re looking for tips and local information, don’t hesitate to ask. We’re experts and lovers of Liverpool, so we’re bound to be able to help!

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Missing Tooth? How To Know if Dental Implants Are Right For You

March 21st, 2017

If you have a missing tooth, you may be weighing up your options. As dentists, we strongly recommend replacing missing teeth to boost your oral health and restore your smile, and we have various options available. One treatment you may be thinking about is dental implants.

What are Dental Implants and Are They Right for Me?

Dental implants are specially designed oral prostheses, which take on the role of the tooth root. These titanium rods are implanted into the jaw bone tissue, and once they have settled, they can be attached to new crowns, bridges and dentures. The result is a fully-functional, natural looking new tooth. Titanium is often used because it is a biocompatible material, and this means that it can integrate with the bone. This produces a new root, which is capable of anchoring the tooth in exactly the same way as a healthy natural root.

One of the best things about dental implants is the fact that they can be attached to a range of restorations, and this means that they are suitable for almost all patients with missing teeth. Whether you’ve lost a single tooth, or a whole set of teeth, implants could offer a solution. Implants also last a lot longer than other restorations, and they produce incredibly lifelike results. When you have implants, it’ll be very difficult to tell the difference between the new tooth or teeth and your natural teeth.

If you have a missing tooth and you’re looking for a long-term solution, implants could be the option for you. If you’re interested in implants, we can arrange consultation, and you can go through the treatment options with one of our experienced dentists and find out everything you need to know about implants. Your dentist can also carry out some tests to check that you are a suitable candidate for treatment, and talk you through the treatment process.

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Know the Signs of Oral Cancer: Common Symptoms To Look For

March 20th, 2017

Oral cancer is becoming increasingly common in the UK, yet many people are still unaware of the warning signs and symptoms. As a result of this, many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when treatment has a much lower chance of success. At Liverpool Dental Spa, we’re keen to do our bit to raise awareness of oral cancer, and encourage our patients to be mouth aware.

The Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a form of cancer that affects the soft tissue in the mouth and throat. The most common warning signs include:

  • Red or white patches in the mouth
  • Abnormal swelling
  • Lumps
  • Difficult swallowing
  • Unexplained pain
  • Ulcers that take a long time to heal (longer than 2 weeks)
  • A persistent sore throat

Oral Cancer Screening

It can often be difficult to detect the signs of oral cancer, and many people will ignore them without being aware that they may be linked to mouth cancer. Oral cancer screening is a way of spotting signs before they become apparent. Our dentists are trained to detect early warning signs, and they include oral cancer screening as part of a routine check-up.

If there are problems, further tests can be arranged. The earlier oral cancer is diagnosed, the higher the chance of survival. In some cases, early detection and treatment can increase survival chances by up to 90 percent.

If you haven’t been to the dentist for a while, we strongly encourage you to call and make an appointment for a routine check. It’ll take just a few minutes, and it could even save your life!

What Causes Oral Cancer?

In many cases of cancer, there is no clear cause. However, with oral cancer, there are risk factors. The most significant risk factor is smoking. Additional risk factors include drinking alcohol excessively and a poor diet. There is also evidence to suggest that HPV infection may increase the risk of oral cancer.

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What You Need to Know About Gum Disease

March 17th, 2017

Gum disease is one of the most common oral diseases. If you have gum disease, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as you notice symptoms.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an oral disease, which occurs when acids released by harmful bacteria irritate your gums, and cause them to become inflamed. Most cases of gum disease are linked to plaque, which is a sticky substance that forms when bacteria and food debris combine with saliva. If you don’t brush your teeth on a regular basis, plaque can form, leaving you at risk of both decay and gum disease.

Symptoms of gum disease include:

  • Swollen, sore gums
  • Redness in the gums
  • Bleeding gums

If you notice these signs, see your dentist. These are often symptoms of mild gum disease, which can be treated relatively easily. If you have advanced gum disease, additional symptoms may include an unpleasant taste in the mouth, bad breath, and receding gums. Advanced gum disease, known as periodontal disease or periodontitis, is much harder to treat, and it causes irreparable damage to the mouth. Gum disease is the most common cause of adult tooth loss in the UK at the moment.

Preventing Gum Disease

The good news about gum disease is that it can be prevented. The best ways to prevent gum disease are:

  • Maintaining good oral hygiene
  • Seeing your dentist every 6-12 months (or sooner if you spot potential signs of gum disease)

Avoiding smoking and moderating your intake of sugar can also help to reduce gum disease risk. If you’re worried about gum disease, or you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, now is the time to pick up the phone, and make an appointment.

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Three Tips to Help with Jaw Pain

March 16th, 2017

Jaw pain can make life tough. Nobody wants to wake up every day battling pain or worry about being uncomfortable when they eat. If you suffer from jaw pain, here are three tips to help.

  1. See your dentist: you may think that we spend all our time creating beautiful smiles and getting rid of troublesome tooth pain, but we can also help with jaw pain. If you have a sore jaw, there may be dental solutions available, which could put pay to your pain. In some cases, jaw pain is associated with bruxism, or grinding the teeth. If you grind your teeth, this can cause the jaw to become painful and swollen, and we can fit a custom-made bite guard to prevent damage to your teeth and jaws. If you have pain in the mornings, or your jaw feels stiff, call and make an appointment.
  2. Painkillers: if you have pain, it may be worth taking over the counter painkillers. Painkillers are designed to target discomfort, and make you feel better. If you have pain that is persistent or you’re getting pain on a regular basis, don’t rely on pain relief. See your GP or come and visit us. Painkillers should only be used as a short-term measure.
  3. Rest: if you have jaw pain, it may be caused by overuse. If you’ve been eating food that requires a lot of chewing, for example, you may find that your jaw becomes sore. Try and rest, and apply an ice pack to your jaw. If you still have pain, give us a call and we’ll arrange an appointment for you. If you’re suffering, don’t ignore pain, and hope it will go away. We are here to help.

If you’ve got a painful jaw, don’t struggle in silence. Call now and book a consultation.

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White Fillings Not Only Look Nicer But Are Better For Your Teeth Than Amalgam

February 28th, 2017

If you’ve got a cavity in your tooth, you may be weighing up your options. There are two main choices when it comes to filling the teeth: amalgam fillings or white fillings. In the past, most people opted for amalgam fillings because white fillings weren’t widely available, and the materials weren’t strong enough for the back teeth. Today, white fillings are much more popular. If you’re looking for an aesthetically pleasing solution, which is also better for your teeth, we recommend white fillings every time.

What is the difference between white and amalgam fillings?

The main difference between white fillings and amalgam fillings is the material used to fill the cavity. White fillings are made from dental composite combined with resins and glass ionomers. Amalgam fillings are made from mercury amalgam. White fillings, as you can probably guess, are white in colour while mercury fillings are silver. The actual shade of your white filling will be chosen to match your natural tooth colour as closely as possible; there are many different shades of composite, so our dentists can achieve a very close match.

Many people prefer to have a filling that isn’t visible when they speak or smile, but some are also concerned about the safety of mercury amalgam fillings. White fillings are better for the environment, and your health. Although amalgam fillings are approved for use in the UK, they have been banned in other countries.

Why would I need a filling?

Fillings are used to fill cavities, holes in the teeth. If you have a cavity, there’s a risk of harmful bacteria reaching other parts of the tooth. Placing a filling reduces this risk, and helps to keep your tooth strong and healthy.

If you have questions about white filings or you’re interested in having old amalgam fillings replaced with white fillings, call us today!

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Constant Toothache? How a Root Canal Could Help You

February 27th, 2017

Toothache can be a real pain. If you’re battling toothache constantly, it’s time you visited your dentist. Ongoing dental pain may be a sign of an infection or severe decay. In this case, we can use root canal therapy to save your tooth and free you from troublesome toothache.

What does root canal treatment involve?

Root canal treatment is a routinely performed dental procedure, which is called into action when an infection has reached the living part of the tooth, known as the pulp. The pulp contains the blood vessels and the nerves. When the pulp is damaged or decayed, the tooth starts to die, as blood supply is reduced. If root canal treatment is carried out in time, it’s possible to save the tooth.

Before you have root canal treatment, the tooth will be numbed completely to prevent you from feeling any pain. When you can’t feel a thing, your dentist will drill into the tooth to access the root canals. They will then clean the tooth, clear out the canals, and remove the decayed pulp tissue. When all traces of damaged tissue have been removed, your dentist will use filling material called gutta percha to fill the root canals. The root canals are then sealed to prevent further infection.

After root canal treatment, we place a new crown on the tooth. This will help to make it stronger.

Is root canal treatment painful?

Root canal treatment has a bad reputation. If you mention those words all in the same sentence, you’re often greeted with anxious looks. The truth is that root canal treatment isn’t painful because the tooth is numbed using anaesthetic. You may feel very mild discomfort after the anaesthetic has worn off, but we do recommend taking painkillers if you do have any pain. We often find that patients build themselves up for something horrific and then leave us wondering why on earth they were so anxious. If you are nervous about having treatment, don’t hesitate to mention this to our dentists. They are there to help you, and they’ll do everything they can to make you feel relaxed.

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How Cerec can restore a broken tooth in one day

February 24th, 2017

Have you broken your tooth? If so, you may think that it’ll take a couple of weeks to mend it. The good news is that at Liverpool Dental Spa, we offer same-day repairs thanks to incredible Cerec technology. If you need a crown in a hurry, you’ve come to the right place!

What is Cerec and how does it work?

Cerec, or Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, is a form of dental technology, which gives us the ability to offer same-day restorative treatment. With Cerec, we can design, make and fit new veneers, crowns, inlays and onlays in just one day. The best bit is we can do everything on-site, so there’s no waiting around.

Cerec technology covers every aspect of treatment. With this software and machinery, we don’t need to create putty impressions and send them away to the laboratory. We simply take photographs, which are converted into model templates for your new restoration. These detailed images are sent to the milling machine, and, as if by magic, your new restoration is made. We can then fit the new crown, and restore your beautiful smile.

What are the advantages for me?

The best thing about Cerec is the speed. The traditional technique of making a new crown takes two weeks. With this system, we can do everything on-site in a single day. Cerec is also a more accurate process, and it enables patients to have treatment without enduring the messy and somewhat uncomfortable process of making putty impressions. When you only need a single treatment session, this can also save you any stress related to taking time off work or trying to fit treatment around childcare or other commitments.

Cerec is also advantageous for dentists, as it enables us to have more control over the treatment process.

If you need a crown fast, call us now! We’re ready and waiting!

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Did you know Liverpool Dental Spa can Restore Missing Teeth in One Day?

February 22nd, 2017

If you’ve done any research into dental implants, you may presume that it takes months to replace a missing tooth. In some cases, this is true. But how would you feel if you could have brand new teeth in just one day? With All-on-4, this is a distinct possibility.

About All-on-4

All-on-4 is a same-day dental implant treatment, which offers a solution for patients who are in a hurry to replace missing teeth. All-on-4 treatment is different to traditional implant treatment because it uses just four implants to secure a full arch of teeth. The implants take on the role of the tooth root, and when combined with a new tooth or a set of prosthetic teeth, they can restore your smile to its former glory. Traditionally, a full arch of new teeth requires 6-10 standard implants. All-on-4 takes advantage of the strongest bone tissue in the jaw to minimise treatment time. The back implants are also positioned at a 45-degree angle, rather than at 90 degrees, as with traditional implants.

Normally, implant treatment takes months, as it takes time for the implants to integrate into the jawbone. With All-on-4, we fit the implants and the new teeth on the same day. This way, you don’t have to wait around to enjoy your new smile.

What are the advantages?

The speed of treatment is perhaps the most obvious advantage. Instead of waiting for months for your new teeth, you can start enjoying the benefits immediately. If you’ve had dentures in the past, you’ll also find that All-on-4 offers superior stability, and improved aesthetics. With implants in place, there’s no risk of the denture slipping, and you should find it much more comfortable. You can also enjoy complete peace of mind when you’re eating, and you’ll be able to enjoy a wider range of foods.

If you have any questions about All-on-4, or you’re interested in finding out more, why not pop in and see us if you’re in the centre of Liverpool or call or email us.

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6 Dentistry Awards!

Winners for National UK Award

  • > 2009 Best Dental Team

Winners for North West Awards

  • > 2009 Best Dental Team
  • > 2008 Best Dental Practice

Finalists for North West Awards

  • > 2009 Best Practice
  • > 2008 Best Dental Team

Finalist & Highly Commended for

  • > 2007 Best Young Dentist Dr Marius McGovern