Free Consultation 0151 236 8280
Free consultation Contact Us

The Truth About Root Canal Treatment

May 22nd, 2015

There is a widespread belief that root canal treatment is a painful, terrifying dental procedure and we’re here to set the record straight and tell you the truth about root canal therapy. The reality is that this procedure has an unjustified bad name. It can, in fact, be a saviour for painful, infected teeth and make the difference between keeping and losing a tooth. If you’ve been told that you need root canal treatment or you have dental pain and are putting off going to the dentist, we can assure you that you have absolutely nothing to worry about.

What is root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is a general dental procedure carried out to treat an infected tooth. This course of action is usually recommended once an infection has reached the living part of the tooth known as the pulp. The pulp contains the nerves and blood vessels and once it becomes infected, there is a high risk of further infection, abscesses and eventual loss of the tooth. In most cases, root canal treatment can make the difference between saving and extracting a tooth.

The actual procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic. Once the tooth is completely numb, your dentist will drill into the tooth to reach the root canals. They will then remove any infected and decayed tissue and ensure that the root canals are clear. The root canals will be filled with gutta percha to seal them and prevent infection from spreading. After this, a new crown may be fitted to strengthen the tooth. After root canal treatment, you may experience very mild discomfort once the effects of the anaesthetic start to wear off, but this should only be temporary and you can use over the counter pain relief.

We understand that many dental patients feel nervous, especially when faced with a procedure such as root canal treatment, and we have a range of techniques and the latest technology on offer to help anxious patients to feel more relaxed and ensure that treatment is as painless and comfortable as possible. If you do suffer from dental phobia or anxiety, please do not hesitate to tell your dentist. They will go out of their way to reassure you and help you to feel calm and safe.

The Difference Between Amalgam and White Fillings

May 20th, 2015

Today, white fillings are very common, but in years gone by, the main treatment options for cavities was mercury amalgam fillings. At Liverpool Dental Spa, we offer a replacement filling service for metal fillings in addition to offering new white fillings. If you’d like to replace an old mercury filling or you have a cavity in need of filling, call today and book your appointment.

What is the difference between white and amalgam fillings?

Mercury amalgam used to be the filling material of choice before advances in technology made it possible to create aesthetically-pleasing, safe modern materials. Amalgam fillings are made of a mixture of metals, including mercury, and they are used to fill cavities and treat decay. Today, mercury amalgam fillings are much less popular than they used to be and many people choose to have white fillings. Although mercury amalgam filling are still approved for use in the UK, some people have concerns about the safety of using mercury.

White fillings are made from dental composite and resins and they offer a discreet, safe and environmentally friendly alternative to metal fillings. Dental composite is a versatile dental material that is soft at room temperature and hardens when exposed to light. It comes in a range of shades to match the natural colour of the tooth. With white fillings, you can’t tell the difference between the tooth and the filling and this means that you can enjoy restorative benefits without any negative impact on the aesthetic of your smile. Your Liverpool Dental Spa dentist will select the closest shade match to your tooth and within an hour, treatment will be complete.

Why would I need a filling?

Fillings are used to treat cavities. These are holes that form in the tooth surface. When the enamel has been penetrated, there is a risk of infection spreading through the tooth and a filling helps to prevent this from happening. Your tooth will also feel stronger once it has been filled. We recommend white fillings because they look natural and they are made from safe, durable materials. If you have old filings, we will be happy to replace them with new fillings. Simply call us or visit the website to make an online enquiry.

How to Smile Like a Celebrity

May 18th, 2015

Do you ever flick through magazines or browse Instagram and wonder how on earth celebrities have such perfect pearly whites? If you dream of a celebrity smile, our amazing team can make your dreams come true! We have an incredible selection of treatments that can transform your teeth into a flawless smile worthy of any celebrity party or awards ceremony.

Cosmetic dentistry

We offer an array of dental services that aim to enhance the appeal of the smile and correct aesthetic imperfections. Our most popular solutions include veneers, teeth whitening, white fillings and cosmetic bonding. Many people assume that you need to spend a huge amount of money to achieve a beautiful smile, but this simply isn’t the case and many treatments are quick and affordable. Veneers are the secret to many a flawless smile and we offer a range of world-class systems including Lumineers by Cerinate and Da Vinci veneers. We also offer single-session cosmetic bonding for patients who are eager to fix hips and worn edges and teeth whitening to give your teeth that gorgeous summer glow.

Cosmetic braces

Braces have become increasingly popular with celebrities and they hold the key to many a perfectly aligned celebrity smile. Today’s discreet, rapid treatments mean that you can achieve amazing results without anyone even realising that you’re wearing braces. Our incredible options include the Inman Aligner, Invisalign, CFast, Perfect Clear, Clearstep and MTM No Trace braces. Celebrities who have famously sported cosmetic braces include P!nk, Brooklyn Beckham, Tom Cruise, Miley Cyrus, Justin Bieber and Faith Hill.

Facial rejuvenation

If you’re looking to roll back the years and enjoy a radiant, youthful complexion to match your new smile, we also offer facial rejuvenation treatments. These are very popular with celebrities, including film stars, reality TV favourites and models. Our most popular non-surgical treatments include Botox and dermal fillers. Procedures only take 15-30 minutes and the results are temporary.

Why is Invisalign so Amazing?

May 16th, 2015

Years ago, invisible orthodontic treatment would have seemed an impossible dream, but with Invisalign, this amazing feat is now a reality. If you dream of a straight smile, but you can’t handle the thought of wearing highly visible braces, Invisalign could be just up your street.

What’s so good about Invisalign?

If you’ve heard dentists, colleagues or friends waxing lyrical about Invisalign, you may be wondering what all the fuss is about. Here is a simple guide to why Invisalign is so beneficial for modern orthodontic patients:

  • Invisible aesthetics: Invisalign aligners are made from transparent high grade plastic, making them barely noticeable when you smile.
  • Ease and convenience: Invisalign aligners are removable, so you don’t have to make huge changes to the way you do things when you start treatment. You can eat and brush your teeth as normal and it’s very easy to keep your aligners clean.
  • Comfort: Invisalign aligners are light and they are custom-made to fit your teeth and encourage tooth movement. There are no metal bands and no painful adjustments.
  • Better oral hygiene: with Invisalign, you an remove your braces quickly and easily when you want to clean your teeth and brush as normal. This reduces the risk of oral health issues such as decay and gum disease and helps to prevent staining.

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign uses forces to move the teeth like other braces. However, it uses a different kind of approach. Rather than using a brace made of brackets and wires to apply pressure to the teeth, Invisalign employs a set of removable aligners to guide the teeth into position over time. Each aligner is different and the number you receive will depend on the complexity of your individual prescription and how much movement is required to straighten and align the teeth. The aligners are worn for two week periods and they are ordered according to the personalised treatment plan.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Every patient is different and it’s impossible to put a blanket time on Invisalign treatment. However, typically, cases take between 12 and 18 months to complete.

How to Treat a Broken Tooth

May 14th, 2015

The general wear and tear of daily life can take its toll on the teeth and if you have chipped, worn or broken teeth, we have some amazing restorative remedies on offer. We can also provide urgent assistance for dental injuries. Simply call us and we will do our best to get you an appointment as quickly as possible.

Composite bonding for broken teeth

In minor cases when a tooth is not extensively damaged, we may recommend a procedure called composite bonding to treat a broken, chipped or worn tooth. Composite bonding is more affordable, quicker and less invasive than veneers and it offers amazing cosmetic benefits as well as adding strength to the teeth.

Bonding is a technique that uses dental composite, a soft, tooth-coloured material that hardens when exposed to strong light. This repairs the teeth and improve the look of the smile. Your dentist will mould the composite when it is soft and then harden it using a curing light once they are happy with the result. Composite bonding can be used to repair chips and restore worn surfaces and edges, re-shape the teeth and decrease gaps between teeth.

What are the advantages of dental bonding?

Dental bonding produces effective results rapidly. Treatment is usually complete within an hour and you’ll notice the difference immediately. Although bonding doesn’t last as long as veneers, this treatment is much less expensive and it can be replaced very easily in the event of any damage occurring. Bonding is also painless, so you can enjoy amazing results without any worry at all.

If you like the sound of bonding and you’re searching for an easy way to transform chipped, worn and broken teeth into a beautiful, functional smile, call us today!

Mini Dental Implants Produce Massive Results

May 12th, 2015

If you’re looking for a mini treatment that makes a massive impact on your smile, look no further than mini dental implants. These implants may be small in stature, but they really pack a punch when it comes to benefits for your oral health and confidence. If you have multiple missing teeth and you’re searching for a solution, mini implants could be the golden ticket.

What exactly are mini dental implants?

Mini dental implants, as you may have guessed from the name, are smaller versions of traditional implants. As these implants are smaller, they are even easier to tolerate than regular implants and this makes them a suitable option for some patients who have been advised against traditional implant treatment due to a lack of strong, dense bone tissue in the jaw. Mini implants are compatible with bridges and dentures and they can also be used for single tooth restorations with crowns.

Implants are an innovative solution for tooth loss, which works on the basis of replacing the tooth root. The implant sits in the jaw bone like a healthy root and provides stability for the tooth crown, which is replaced using a bridge, crown or denture.

The benefits of mini dental implants

Mini implants are often more versatile than traditional implants because they are smaller and this means that they are suited to a wider range of patients, including those who are unable to tolerate larger implants. The procedure to fit a mini implant is less invasive and treatment can be carried out in a single day, rather than taking months. Mini implants also offer amazing aesthetic and functional benefits for patients with tooth loss.These include a natural looking smile, the ability to eat and enjoy a healthy diet, improved confidence, a more youthful facial aesthetic and clear speech.

To find out more about the incredible little innovation, don’t delay. Call us today!

We Provide Hygiene Treatments for All the Family

May 8th, 2015

We pride ourselves on offering an extensive range of dental treatments to suit the whole family and we are eager to promote good oral hygiene for children and adults alike. Our excellent dental hygienists are on hand to offer an array of preventative hygiene treatments in addition to services for those with existing dental problems, such as gum disease. If your aim is to keep dental diseases at bay and enjoy a radiant smile this summer, now is the time to book a dental hygiene session.

Adult hygiene treatments

Visiting a hygienist has a wealth of benefits for those with good oral health and those affected by dental diseases, such as gum disease and tooth decay. We provide intensive cleaning treatments and use the latest technology and techniques to achieve incredible results. Our treatments aim to rid the mouth of harmful bacteria and sources of infection and they also help to blitz surface stains and create lighter, brighter teeth. We highly recommend annual hygiene sessions for those with a clean bill of oral health and frequent treatments for those undergoing treatment for gum disease.

Hygiene treatments for children

Prevention is always better than cure and we have some great preventative treatments to offer our younger patients. Our aim is to equip children with the knowledge to fight decay and provide them with treatments to make the teeth as strong and healthy as possible. As well as offering advice about brushing at home and healthy eating, we also offer fissure sealant and fluoride varnish treatment.

Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen the tooth enamel. It is applied to the tooth surface in a varnish form and it helps to decrease the risk of decay.

Fissure sealant treatment is another effective means of preventing decay. It involves placing a plastic coating on the biting surface of the teeth, usually the molars, to form a protective barrier between your tooth and harmful bacteria. This barrier prevents bacteria and bits of food getting stuck in the tiny cracks (known as fissures) in the surfaces of your teeth. Again, treatment is very quick and it also painless. We simply apply the sealant to the teeth and then shine a light onto it to set it.

To book a hygiene session for you or your children, call us today.

Straightening Smiles with Damon Braces

May 6th, 2015

If you’re looking for an advanced tooth straightening treatment that offers benefits galore, look no further than Damon Braces. Damon Braces are fixed braces that use the latest technology to create outstanding results for patients with moderate and complex dental needs.

About Damon Braces

The Damon system is one of the best orthodontic treatments on the market at the moment. It uses advanced technology, state of the art design and innovative features to provide patients with really impressive results, as well as a simple treatment process, reduced treatment times and enhanced comfort.

Damon Braces are made from composite brackets enforced with ceramic that match the natural tooth shade, and sliding, easy to clean brackets. The braces use self-ligating forces to move the teeth quickly and there are no painful bands or ties causing friction and discomfort.

Damon Braces are often recommended for patients who need a lot of movement as an alternative to traditional fixed braces. They are comfortable and discreet and they also work around four to six months faster than conventional braces.

Are Damon Braces for me?

If you have orthodontic issues that affect your bite  or you suffer with severe crowding, other treatments such as aligners might not be suitable because they cannot achieve enough movement and don’t provide sufficient support for the teeth. Damon Braces are suitable for almost all orthodontic patients and they are reliable and effective, while also offering an array of benefits for the patient.

If you like the sound of Damon Braces, why not call and arrange a consultation? Following an examination and some basic tests, our dentists will be able to discuss whether or not this is a good treatment choice for you. If there are other suitable options, we can also go through these with you and then help you to make a decision about which kind of treatment to go for.

How is Sleep Apnoea Treated?

May 4th, 2015

At Liverpool Dental Spa, we offer a range of treatments and services designed to promote good general health and wellbeing as well as high standards of oral health. We offer treatment for TMJ disorder, headaches, snoring and sleep apnoea in addition to an array of dental services, and we aim to ensure all our patients are as healthy and happy as possible.

Sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder that can prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep on a regular basis. It occurs when the muscles in the throat relax, causing the airway to become obstructed and breathing to be interrupted. Apnoea is defined as a blockage of 10 seconds or longer. The most common risk factors for sleep apnoea include being overweight, having a large neck circumference, smoking, drinking alcohol and family history. This disorder is most commonly found in men aged over 40 years old.

How serious is sleep apnoea?

Sleep apnoea affects people in different ways and there are varying degrees of severity. In mild cases, symptoms may be barely noticeable and there isn’t always need for formal treatment, while in serious cases sleep apnoea can be life-threatening.

Treating sleep apnoea

In mild cases, there may be no need for medical treatment and dealing with risk factors can really help. This often involves making small-scale changes to your lifestyle and sleeping habits, such as avoiding alcohol in the evenings and sleeping on your side, rather than your back. If you are overweight, smoke or have a sedentary lifestyle, making positive lifestyle choices can also make a massive difference to your general health as well as your sleep apnoea. This may involve losing weight, doing more exercise and giving up smoking. We can assist with these goals and are here to provide information and advice.

In minor and moderate cases, we can also provide a custom-made device known as a mandibular advancement appliance, which helps to increase air flow while you sleep by holding the lower jaw in a forward position. The appliance is shaped to fit you and it can really help to improve your quality of sleep, as well as that of others around you.

In severe cases, CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), may be recommended. This involves wearing a mask to help you breathe during the night.

How Dental Implants Can Transform Your Smile and Your Life

April 30th, 2015

At Liverpool Dental Spa we know how much a great looking smile means to our clients and it’ true to say that in some cases, treatment can transform your life, as well as your smile. With dental implants, we are able to restore the smile by replacing missing natural teeth with incredibly lifelike and highly functional prostheses, so you can enjoy a beautiful smile, as well as enhanced quality of life.

What exactly are dental implants?

Dental implants are small screw-shaped prostheses designed to take on the role of a missing tooth root. Like a root, the implant is anchored into a socket in the jaw bone. As titanium is biocompatible, the implant integrates into the bone tissue, enabling it to provide optimum support for the new tooth restoration. Once integration is complete, the implant can then be connected to a crown, denture or dental bridge and the new tooth or teeth will look exactly like the real thing.

What’s so good about dental implants?

Implants are the closest match to natural teeth and once they have been fitted, you really can enjoy the same benefits as a healthy, natural smile. The teeth are firmly supported so you can bite and chew without any worries and they look incredibly similar to natural teeth, so you can feel confident when you smile. Implants also last for many, many years, so they represent a really good long-term option. They are also very versatile, which makes them suitable in a diverse range of cases; whether you’re missing a single tooth or you have a full arch of lost teeth, implants could be the answer.

If you’re interested in our incredible implants, call now!

...

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