Free Consultation 0151 236 8280
Free consultation Contact Us

Speed Tested – Rapid Orthodontic Treatments

January 25th, 2017

Time is a luxury many of us don’t have in this day and age. Thankfully, if you’re hoping to achieve a dream smile in weeks or months rather than years, we have good news. Here are some of the best fast-acting orthodontic treatments on the market.

The Inman Aligner

The Inman Aligner is a rapid removable brace, which takes just 16 weeks to straighten the teeth. This innovative device is made from a coiled spring and a metal bar, which generate forces that push and pull the teeth, gently moving them into the desired position. This treatment is ideally suited to patients who require limited movement. It is not suited to those with more complex needs.

MTM No Trace Brace

If you’re looking for a treatment that offers both speed and style, look no further. The MTM No Trace Brace is a lingual brace system, which enables you to have treatment without anyone being able to see your braces. Unlike traditional fixed braces, these fixed appliances are secured onto the back of the teeth. This means that they’re invisible when you smile. This system is designed for patients with minor orthodontic problems. It typically takes around 12-24 weeks to produce beautifully straight smiles.

Six Month Smiles

Six Month Smiles is a speedy fixed brace treatment, which is geared towards those who have minor or moderate problems involving the teeth at the front of the mouth. Typically, fixed braces take at least 12 months to address issues, but with this treatment, you can achieve amazing results in half the time. These braces are also more discreet than traditional metal braces, and they use friction-free technology.

Damon Braces

Damon Braces are a rapid alternative to traditional fixed braces for patients who have complex needs. These braces can achieve significant tooth movement, and treatment times are around 4-6 months faster than conventional fixed braces. They are also more discreet and more comfortable.

To find out more about our dazzling array of orthodontic options, call now!

5 Ways to Banish Bad Breath in 2017

January 24th, 2017

Bad breath is a problem many people find incredibly embarrassing. However, it’s very common, and in most cases, it’s easy to treat. If bad breath is getting you down, we are here to help. Here are 5 ways you can banish bad breath for good in 2017.

  1. Brush your teeth and tongue twice a day: cleaning your teeth is the best way to keep your mouth clean and free from plaque. Take 2 minutes out of your day every morning and evening to brush your teeth using fluoride toothpaste. Most cases of bad breath are caused by bacteria lingering on the tongue. These bacteria release odorous gases, which make your breath smell unpleasant. When you’ve finished cleaning your teeth, move your brush onto the tongue, or use a dedicated tongue cleaner or scraper.
  2. Chew sugar-free gum: chewing gum is beneficial for a number of reasons. It stimulates saliva production, which neutralises acids in the mouth, and it can help to keep your breath smelling fresh. Chewing gum can also help to clear away any food debris. Make sure you choose sugar-free gum, and don’t chew for more than 2 minutes.
  3. Avoid smoking: smoking is a very common cause of bad breath. It also increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. It’s not easy to quit smoking, but with the right support, you can do it. We are here to support you, so give us a call if you want to try and give up for good.
  4. Floss: when you brush your teeth, you can only reach part of your mouth. Flossing helps to target the areas you miss when you’re brushing, for example, the gaps between your teeth.
  5. See your dentist: bad breath can be a sign of underlying issues, so make sure you book regular appointments with your dentist. If poor oral hygiene is the cause, you may be advised to see a dental hygienist.

Bone Grafting –  Making the Impossible Possible for Dental Implants

January 23rd, 2017

Dental implants are one of the most exciting developments in modern dentistry. They can literally transform your smile and give you back your confidence. Implants are suitable for many people, but they’re not always the best solution for patients with missing teeth. In some cases, you may be told that you’re not a suitable candidate for implants because there is a lack of dense bone tissue in the jaw. If this is the case, you don’t have to give up your dreams of a beautiful new smile. We can often carry out bone grafting to strengthen the bone tissue, and build up bone mass.

What is bone grafting?

Bone grafting is a procedure, which involves taking bone from one part of the body or using an artificial bone substitute and placing it a different part of the body. In the case of dental implants, grafting is used to increase bone density in the jaw, so that the bone is capable of securing a dental implant. Most commonly, our dentists take tissue from the hip or a different part of the mouth to prepare for implant treatment.

What happens during a bone graft?

Before you have treatment, your dentist will do some X-rays to check the depth and strength of the bone tissue. If the tissue isn’t dense enough, bone grafting may be recommended. Once the bone has been removed from the donor site, most commonly the hip, your dentist will make a small incision in the gum to create a flap. The flap will be lifted, and the donor tissue placed onto the jaw bone. The flap will then be closed, and the incision sutured. Gauze will be placed over the incision to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection. In total, healing time takes around 4 months. Once the healing process is complete, the implant can be placed.

Does bone grafting work?

Bone grafting is not successful in every single case. However, the success rate is very high, and most people go on to enjoy successful implant treatment.

The Decay Detectors: How We Spot Problems Before They Take Root

January 20th, 2017

When it comes to dental decay, time is of the essence. The sooner we are able to spot and treat signs of decay, the lower the risk of serious damage. We take the role of preventing dental issues very seriously, and we use the latest technology and techniques to identify early warning signs long before symptoms become apparent.

Spotting the signs of decay

It can take time for symptoms of tooth decay to become noticeable, and this is why regular routine appointments are so important. Our dentists are trained to identify very early warning signs, and this enables them to act quickly. They can nip problems in the bud, long before they start to cause you issues.

During a routine check-up, we use powerful lighting and magnification techniques to get the possible view of your teeth and the soft tissue in your mouth. If we spot potential abnormalities, we can then discuss treatment options with you. It can be very difficult to spot tiny holes in the tooth surface, but if you have an expert eye, and the latest technology, this task becomes much easier.

We strongly recommend check-ups every 6-12 months for patients of all ages. However, if you do encounter problems between appointments, or you develop tooth pain, bleeding gums, or sensitivity, please contact us sooner. If you leave symptoms untreated, they’re likely to get worse.

If you’re keen to keep your dental health check, or you’d like to find out more about decay detection, call us and make an appointment today!

The Wand Which Wizardly Wards Needle Nerves

January 20th, 2017

One of the most common reasons patients feel apprehensive about having dental treatment is a fear of needles. When you’re faced with having treatment that requires an injection of anaesthetic, for example, this can cause anxiety. At Liverpool Dental Spa, we do everything we can to make nervous patients feel as comfortable as possible, and we’re proud to offer innovative technology like The Wand. If you dread going to the dentist because you have a phobia of needles, we can help!

What is The Wand?

The Wand is a device, which is designed to ensure that injections are painless. Many people are scared of having injections because they’ve had a bad experience in the past. In many cases, this relates to painful injections, which were caused by fluid flowing into the body too quickly. With The Wand, we can give injections without any risk of discomfort.

The Wand may look like your average pen, but it’s a high-tech piece of kit. The needle, which is held in a case, is attached to a small computer. This computer controls the speed of the flow of fluid. This means that it’s impossible for the fluid to be injected too quickly, or for there to be a sudden surge of liquid.

The Wand doesn’t just eliminate pain. It also looks completely harmless.

Who can benefit from The Wand?

The Wand is an ideal solution for nervous adults, as well as children. Some people become very anxious even when they set eyes on a needle, and The Wand is a much less threatening prospect. You can’t actually see the needle, and there’s no chance of the injection being painful.

If you’re a nervous patient, and you’d like to find out more about The Wand or other techniques, such as sedation, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our friendly team is ready and waiting to help!

The Magic of Mini Implants

December 30th, 2016

Dental implants offer an array of benefits for patients with missing teeth, but they’re not always suitable for every patient. Sometimes, when there’s a lack of dense tissue in the jawbone, traditional implants may not be a viable solution. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to give up on your dreams of a stunning, functional smile. Often, mini implants can provide a solution.

About mini dental implants

As you’ve probably guessed from the name, mini implants are a smaller version of traditional implants. They are often recommended when a patient is told that they aren’t a good candidate for implant treatment because of a lack of bone density. As mini implants are smaller, they are easier to tolerate. Although they are smaller, they are still robust enough to provide anchorage for tooth replacements like bridges and dentures.

What does treatment involve?

The procedure to fit mini implants is simpler and less invasive than normal implants. The implant is placed under the gum line in socket in the jawbone. The head of the implant is exposed, and this is the part that is connected to the bridge or denture. Usually, it takes months for an implant to heal. With mini implants, the process is much faster, as the implant isn’t as deep. Often, we can fit the new teeth on the same day as the implants are placed.

The benefits of mini implants

Mini implants can offer you a host of benefits whether you’re having tooth replacement treatment for the first time, or you’ve had issues with dentures in the past. Mini implants provide stability and support for new teeth, and they enable you to enjoy a natural looking smile, as well as vastly improved oral function. You can smile, eat, and speak without any anxieties at all, and you have peace of mind that your teeth are firmly rooted. Treatment is faster than conventional implant treatment, and the procedure is also less invasive.

If you’d like to find out more, don’t hesitate to get in touch!

Speedy Straightening with CFast

December 29th, 2016

Is time of the essence? Are you eager to find the fastest route to a brilliant new smile? If you’re looking for an orthodontic treatment that will transform your smile in months rather than years, we have good news. Allow us to introduce you to CFast.

Everything you need to know about CFast

CFast offers a discreet and speedy alternative to traditional fixed braces. CFast focuses on the front teeth, known as the social 6, and this enables it to work a lot faster than conventional braces. In most cases, treatment can be completed within six months.

CFast is not just a speedy option. It also offers additional benefits. These braces are more delicate than traditional fixed braces, and this means that they’re easier to keep clean. They’re also made from ceramic materials and feature clear brackets, so they are much harder to detect than other fixed braces.

Fixed braces may not seem as convenient as removable braces. However, they are guaranteed to produce results. With removable braces, the success of treatment is often dependent on the patient following their dentist’s instructions at all times. If you don’t wear the brace enough, your results will be affected. With a fixed brace, there’s no risk of being disappointed when treatment is complete.

Is CFast suitable for everyone?

CFast is designed to offer a fast-acting solution for those who have orthodontic imperfections that affect the teeth at the front of the mouth, the social 6. This treatment may not be recommended for those who have more complex issues that require significant movement. In this case, we will be happy to explore some other options with you. We are able to offer discreet and rapid treatments for all our patients, including those with more complex needs.

Call us now to find out how you could get a perfectly straight smile for 2017.

Get a Perfect Straight Smile with Perfect Clear Braces

December 26th, 2016

More and more people are coming to us hoping to find a treatment that will provide them with a beautifully straight smile. In the past, patients had a very limited range of treatment options. However, today, there’s a whole range of options on offer, including Perfect Clear. If you’re searching for an invisible solution for crooked or crowded teeth, this could be the choice for you!

How does Perfect Clear work and what does treatment entail?

Perfect Clear is a bespoke invisible aligner system, which uses a series of aligners, known as K positioners, to straighten out orthodontic issues. Each positioner is slightly different, and it’s essential to follow the sequence perfectly.

Perfect Clear positioners are made from transparent plastic; they slide over the teeth in a similar way to a mouth guard. Once they are in place, it’s virtually impossible to detect them. This means that you can smile with confidence, and nobody has to know that you’re undergoing treatment.

Most people prioritise aesthetics when they’re choosing an orthodontic treatment. However, many patients are also impressed by the convenience this system offers. Perfect Clear aligners are removable, and this means that you can take them out to eat meals and brush your teeth. Effectively, you can go about your daily business as you did before you started wearing braces, and treatment will have little impact. Cleaning the braces is also much easier than with fixed braces.

Can I benefit from Perfect Clear?

Perfect Clear braces are ideally suited to patients who have minor issues; they are an excellent choice for patients who don’t want to hang around to see the results of treatment, as they work rapidly. If you’d like to see if you’re a suitable candidate for treatment, simply book a consultation online, or give our friendly reception team a bell.

Sort Your Sleep Apnoea in Time for a Silent Christmas Night!

December 22nd, 2016

We all need our sleep. If snoring or sleep apnoea are keeping you awake at night, we can help. Call us now, and hopefully we’ll have you sleeping peacefully in perfect time for silent Christmas nights.

What is sleep apnoea and what causes it?

Sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder, which affects your breathing while you’re asleep. The term apnoea means that your breathing is restricted for episodes that last at least 10 seconds. In the most serious cases, sleep apnoea can be life-threatening. Snoring and sleep apnoea are the not the same. However, persistent snoring may be a symptom of sleep apnoea.

In many cases, sleep apnoea is associated with being overweight. This reduces oxygen flow because the airways are constricted. Smoking and other respiratory illnesses can also increase the risk of sleep apnoea. In some cases, symptoms may be exacerbated by lying in certain positons, usually on your back, and drinking alcohol.

How can dentists help?

You may think of going to the dentist if you’re having trouble sleeping. However, we can offer effective treatments for sleep apnoea and snoring. We provide custom-made bite guards, which can help to eliminate the symptoms of breathing troubles. The aim of the bite guard is to increase oxygen flow by opening up the airways. As the bite guard is made to fit you, you should find it very comfortable, and it should improve your sleep quality and that of those around you.

If you’re keen to restore peaceful nights to your household, now is the time to get in touch. Our expert dentists are ready and waiting to help. Don’t let sleepless nights ruin your Christmas!

A Step by Step Guide to Root Canal Treatment

December 19th, 2016

Root canal treatment is a commonly-performed procedure, which is often used as an alternative to extraction. You may be advised to have root canal treatment if you have an infected tooth or you have suffered an injury, which has damaged the pulp tissue.

What is root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure, which is most commonly used when the tooth is infected, and the pulp tissue is affected. The pulp contains the living material of the tooth, including the nerves and blood vessels. If the pulp is damaged or decayed, the tooth will start to die, as the blood supply will be reduced. To prevent losing the tooth, root canal therapy may be recommended.

The actual procedure is relatively straightforward. In many cases, people are very anxious about having this procedure because it tends to have a bad reputation. It’s made out to be an awful process, but actually, it’s a painless and highly effective way of saving a decayed tooth. We carry out root canal treatment under local anaesthetic, so you won’t actually feel any pain during the procedure. Most people leave us wondering why on earth they were so worried beforehand!

What actually happens when you have root canal treatment?

Before your dentist begins, they will explain exactly what is going to happen, and answer any questions. Your tooth will then be numbed using local anaesthetic. Your dentist will drill into the tooth once the effects of the anaesthetic have become apparent. The aim of treatment is to remove the decayed tissue from the root canals and then clean, fill and seal them. The process helps to reduce the risk of decay spreading.

After root canal treatment, we often place a new crown on the tooth. Crowns are restorations, which make the teeth stronger and more resilient.

If you have questions about root canal treatment, don’t hesitate to get in touch!

...

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