Dr. Vadgama talks straight about braces…

You offer adult braces and orthodontics, what are the benefits of these? Adult braces and orthodontics allow us to treat patients who have always wanted straight teeth, but previously thought they had left it too late for braces. We get to give them the smile they always wanted. We also treat many adult patients who had braces as teenagers but now need minor corrections due to relapse. Benefits of orthodontic treatment include aesthetic improvement, not to mention that aligning the teeth helps with maintaining good oral hygiene and can improve deep or traumatic bites.

What options are there? There are many different options available for patients. These include removable clear aligner systems, and metal or ceramic tooth coloured fixed braces. Each option has various benefits and the best option for each patient will take into account their preferences, desired end result and lifestyle. Many patients are unaware of the discreet and fast methods that are now available for straightening teeth that are light years away from conventional ‘train track’ braces.

Can you outline the process from consultation to completion? At the initial consultation we spend time carrying out a detailed clinical assessment as well as discussing the patient’s aims and requirements, taking lifestyle and personal preferences into consideration. Once a patient has considered all the options and made an informed decision, we can discuss the process. This will vary slightly depending on which option they decide on. However, all options require frequent appointments, normally at 3-6 week intervals, as the patient progresses through the treatment. Most cases are completed within 6-12 months. Once treatment is complete we provide retention in the form of removable and fixed retainers, and emphasise the importance of this in maintaining their dream smile!

Dr. Jaimini Vadgama is based at Woodbury Dental & Laser Clinic in Tenterden. The team offer a huge variety of treatments including general dentistry, dental implants, teeth whitening, clear braces, veneers and full mouth reconstruction. For further advice or to book an appointment call 01580 762323 or visit woodburyclinic.co.uk

Elmsleigh House chats us through a check-up…

How often should an adult have dental check-ups and why? The timing of dental check-ups is not the same for everyone. During each check-up your dentist is assessing the risk for decay, wear, erosion and gum problems, and will therefore determine the best check-up interval according to any findings. This may be as soon as three months if the patient is high risk for problems, six months (usual for most patients) or 12 months for young adults with no fillings and good oral hygiene. Regular dental check-ups are important because your dentist checks your teeth and existing dentistry, your gums and supporting bone, as well as screening for mouth cancer. Having a healthy mouth, teeth and gums are very important for overall health and well-being.

During a consultation what are you checking and looking out for? During a consultation for a new patient, your dentist should take time to discuss any concerns and wishes for your teeth and smile, as well as performing a full clinical examination with x-rays and clinical photographs. At a check-up consultation, your medical history will be reviewed as well as any concerns you may have. Your dentist will then check any areas under review, checking the pits and grooves of teeth and edges of fillings and crowns, and noting any decay, wear or erosion. Your gums will also be checked with a special instrument that measures the spaces between them and your teeth. With healthy gums, the spaces are shallow; when people have gum disease (periodontitis), the spaces become deeper and treatment will be required. Mouth cancer screening is also performed at every dental consultation. Findings will then be reviewed with the patient using any necessary x-rays and clinical photographs, giving recommendations about any treatment or advice for prevention.

What lifestyle changes can someone make to have naturally good, healthy gums and white teeth? It is extremely important not to smoke, as well as brushing and flossing your teeth well at home. You must eat a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals to keep your teeth and mouth healthy, and reduce your sugar intake, including natural sugars found in fruit juices. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially before going to bed at night. To keep your teeth whiter, reduce the consumption of staining foods and drinks, such as black coffee and red wine. You can also visit your hygienist regularly for a thorough professional clean and polish, as well as advice for stain removal. As teeth naturally stain and discolour over time, an option is to consider teeth whitening to achieve a brighter, whiter smile, although this should be prescribed and monitored by your dentist to ensure safe and effective results.

Elmsleigh House Dental Clinic is a well-established private practice in Farnham, Surrey. The experienced team offer a wide range of treatments, from general & family dentistry, dental hygiene and cosmetic dentistry to dental implants and other complex treatments. Call 01252 713797 or visit elmsleighhouse.co.uk for more information.

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