FAQs

Facial Aesthetics FAQs

The HydraFacial is a multi-step hydradermabrasion treatment designed to cleanse, exfoliate and nourish the skin. It involves using a patented wand that treats the skin with oxygenated, vitamin-infused water, while also removing dead skin cells, make-up, oil, and dirt trapped within clogged pores. The pressure from the water combined with the physical extraction of impurities on the surface of the skin makes this a gentle, but very effective resurfacing treatment. HydraFacial treatment can be used in combination with a chemical peel, an infusion of nourishing serums, LED light therapy and facial toning devices to enhance the overall result.
The HydraFacial can be used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, as well as oily and congested skin. Not only can HydraFacial treatment improve the skin’s elasticity and firmness, but it can also reduce the appearance of mild acne, brown spots and enlarged pores for improved skin tone, texture and vibrancy. This treatment is ideal for anyone who wants to improve the health and appearance of their skin, and is an especially great option for those who suffer from dehydrated or sensitive skin and are prone to redness.
HydraFacial treatment is suitable for all ages and skin types, as it is soothing, refreshing, non-irritating, and immediately effective. However, we will assess your medical history to rule out anything that could compromise results. We can also customise treatment to suit your unique skin condition. The HydraFacial may not be appropriate for patients who are:
Pregnant or breastfeeding.
Suffering from active rashes, sunburns or rosacea (inflammation) in the area to be treated.
Allergic to the serums/skincare products that may be used as part of the treatment.
A consultation will be scheduled, where you will need to fill out a medical form and photographs of your face will be taken. Treatment will be explained, before we discuss your aesthetic goals with you and how realistic these are to achieve. You will then be asked to sign a consent form, which will enable us to proceed with treatment.
A consultation will be scheduled, where you will need to fill out a medical form and photographs of your face will be taken. Treatment will be explained, before we discuss your aesthetic goals with you and how realistic these are to achieve. You will then be asked to sign a consent form, which will enable us to proceed with treatment.
How long will it take for treatment to work, and how long does it last?
You should:
Avoid exposing yourself to intense sunlight and artificial UV light
Protect the treated skin by applying at least an SPF 30 sun cream daily
Only apply sterile concealer or mineral make-up immediately after treatment.
Your skin may feel slightly tight for about an hour or so following treatment. You might also experience some mild redness or peeling of your skin if you’ve undergone more advanced treatment, but don’t worry. These side effects are completely normal and will resolve themselves within a few days.
Anti-wrinkle treatment is used to relax the muscles in your face, preventing the skin from creasing over time and causing wrinkles. This can help your face look softer, smoother and more youthful.*
It involves injecting small amounts of a purified, naturally-occurring protein into specific areas of the face. This is a very safe and effective solution that is supplied by various different brands. The purpose of treatment is to temporarily reduce the movement of facial muscles that can cause expression lines. All anti-wrinkle treatment solutions are prescription-based medicines that can only be administered by qualified trained medical professional.
Dynamic frown lines
Crow’s feet
Forehead lines
As well as the above, anti-wrinkle treatment can help to slim down your jaw muscles. It can also be used to minimise the symptoms of clenching and hyperhidrosis (underarm sweating) and migraines.
Anti-wrinkle injections cannot be used to treat “static” wrinkles, which typically refers to the folds and lines that are present when you are not forming facial expressions. You are not suitable for anti-wrinkle treatment if you:
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Have a skin infection in the area required to be treated
Have a neuromuscular condition (e.g. myasthenia gravis, Eaton-Lambert)
Are allergic to the anti-wrinkle treatment solution used.
Are taking aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g. gentamycin, clindamycin)
Depending on the patient and the area being treated, some mild discomfort is possible but this is usually temporary, as the anti-wrinkle treatment solution is injected relatively quickly using a very fine needle.
Our team of highly skilled and experienced dental professionals will conduct a consultation, where you will need to fill out a medical form. Photographs of your face will then be taken, treatment explained and then we ask you to sign a consent form that will allow us to carry out treatment. The dosages of the anti-wrinkle treatment solution provided will be a standard, safe amount for the area to be treated.
Treatment will take effect within 1 to 2 weeks. After 2 weeks, we will schedule a follow-up appointment to assess the result and determine if the injection dosages require amending for future appointments. Depending on how active you are, results will typically last between 3 to 4 months. However, ongoing care may be required if you wish to maintain the results for longer.
You should avoid:
Applying make-up for at least 4 hours
Rubbing or massaging the treated area for at least 72 hours
Performing strenuous exercises for at least 24 hours
Bending or lying down for at least 4 hours
We also recommend that you take paracetamol if you have a headache.
Anti-wrinkle treatment is one of the most popular facial aesthetic procedures in the UK, with an excellent 20-year track record. As with any other medicine, however, there are some possible side effects to be aware of. These include: Redness
Bruising
Swelling
Irritation
Bleeding
Less common side effects include:
Infection
Dropping of the eyebrow/eyelid
Asymmetry
The risk of these side effects occurring is significantly reduced so long as you follow all the advice your professional provides for after treatment care.
Micro-needling involves inserting very fine needles into the surface of the skin to improve its condition. These needles are used by micro-needling devices such as the Derma Pen, which is what we use at ShardaDental and Facial. This treatment takes advantage of the body’s natural ability to repair itself and regenerate new skin cells through increased collagen and elastin production.
The Derma Pen is an automated needling device that delivers over 100 needle insertions per second, equating to over 70,000 insertions per minute. These needles pierce the skin in a vertical motion, which increases the efficacy of treatment by enhancing the skin’s ability to absorb skincare products. This also reduces discomfort and post-treatment erythema (redness of the skin).
We use plasme rich platelets (PRP), in combination with other meso products so as to optimise the results of micro-needling treatment. PRP encourages skin rejuvenation by introducing active peptides, growth factors and proteins into the skin. This helps to reduce the signs of aging, for healthier, younger looking skin.
Minimising the size of pores.
Tightening, lifting and rejuvenating skin.
Improving wound healing and the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and acne.
The Derma Pen can be used on any part of the body, but the most popular areas include the nose, forehead, cheeks, between the eyebrows, around the eyes, around the mouth, scar tissue and stretch marks. The DermaPen features an adjustable needle depth function, which enables us to treat hard-to-reach areas of the face. Compared to other treatments that involve using an IPL (intense pulsed light) device, lasers or deeper chemical peels, the recovery time required for micro-needling using the Derma Pen is much shorter, meaning it only takes up to 4 days for the skin to heal.
Most patients can benefit from micro-needling, but we will be able to confirm your suitability for treatment once we have assessed you. Treatment is not suitable for those who:
Are pregnant
Have an impaired immune system
Are suffering from an active infection at the site of injection
Are taking blood thinning medication, due to the increased risk of bleeding and bruising
Depending on your skin type, you may need to prepare your skin with topical creams, so as to reduce the risk of inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots) and improve the overall treatment result. Not only will you need to avoid using any aggressive skincare products for at least 3 to 4 days, but you must also avoid applying fake tan to your skin for at least 10 to 14 days prior to the procedure. We can discuss this with you in further detail when you come in.
At your consultation, we will ask you to complete a medical form. We will also take photographs of the treatment area, before discussing your aesthetic goals and how realistic these will be to achieve. To confirm that you have been fully informed of the procedure and are happy to proceed with it, you will need to sign a consent form.
Treatment begins with your skin being thoroughly cleaned. A numbing cream will be applied to the treatment area and left to take effect for 20 minutes. The cream will then be removed and your skin disinfected, before the Derma pen is used. This micro-needling procedure is usually completed in 1-hour sessions.
To achieve optimal results, we recommend that patients undergo 4 treatments, administered at 4 to 6 week intervals, as this will enable the skin to heal and remodel itself. You should notice improvements in the condition of your skin within a few weeks after the first treatment session.
Micro-needling treatment combined with the Enerpeel® MA targets both the surface and deeper layers of the skin for a visually smoother, tighter and firmer appearance. This is a physical and chemical treatment combination that is more preferable than undergoing the individual procedures on their own. This process involves having the Enerpeel® MA placed first, before micro-needling treatment is carried out. Find out more about the Enerpeel® MA by clicking here.
It is important to be aware that your skin may appear sunburnt after the procedure, but this is perfectly normal. At Sharda dental and Facial, we recommend that you:
Thoroughly clean your hands before touching the treated area.
Avoid applying make-up for at least 24 hours
Avoid applying make-up for at least 24 hours.
Avoid using aggressive skincare products until any redness has subsided.
Avoid exposing yourself to intense sunlight and artificial UV light for a period of at least 2 to 3 weeks.
Avoid applying fake tan for at least 7 days.
Dermal fillers are natural or synthetic gels that can be injected into the skin to lift and add volume to the soft tissue, thereby improving the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Most dermal fillers are produced by combining hyaluronic acid (HA) with proteins to create a clear, sterile substance that can be injected. HA is naturally found in the skin and all soft tissues of the body. It attracts and binds water to increase soft tissue volume and hydration. The amount of HA our bodies produce ultimately decreases with age.
Dermal fillers are ideal for treating many areas of the face, including nasio-labial (nose to mouth) lines and marionette (mouth to chin) lines. Dermal fillers can also increase the volume of the cheeks for a plumper, more youthful appearance.
Most patients can be treated with dermal fillers. However, our team of highly skilled dental professionals will conduct a thorough assessment of your medical history to confirm your suitability. You cannot undergo treatment with dermal fillers if you are: Pregnant or breastfeeding Allergic to the filler or lidocaine combined with the filler. Suffering from an active infection at the site that is to be injected.
Many dermal fillers contain a local anaesthetic that can minimise discomfort, but we also apply cream to numb the skin that will be treated. The overall procedure is not typically painful, but it can be mildly uncomfortable in some cases. Don’t worry – this is usually temporary.
We will arrange your consultation with Dr Nidhi Sharda, who is highly experienced in delivering a wide range of facial aesthetic treatments. During this consultation, you will need to fill out a medical form and photographs of your face will be taken. Dr Nidhi will take the time to discuss your aesthetic goals with you and how realistic this will be to achieve. Once the procedure has been explained to you, you will have the opportunity to raise any queries. We will then ask you to sign a consent form, which will enable us to proceed with treatment.
Your skin will be cleansed using antiseptic wipes, before Dr Nidhi injects the filler under the skin in the desired area. The treatment area will be thoroughly massaged to spread the filler evenly.
Following treatment, results are immediately noticeable. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled two weeks after the procedure to evaluate the overall result and determine whether further treatment is necessary. The procedure can be repeated as and when required, but visible correction typically lasts between 6 months to a year after the initial treatment.
You should avoid:
Touching the treated area for at least 6 hours
Exposing yourself to extreme temperatures from steam rooms, saunas and UV light, which should resolve any swelling that is apparent.
Consuming any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. aspirin, ibuprofen) for at least 24 hours
Sterile concealer or mineral make-up can be applied immediately.
Post-treatment swelling, redness, bruising and itching is possible, but these side effects usually subside after 2 to 4 days.
Some people are born with thinner lips, while others lose some of the fat in the their lips as they get older. Lip enhancement treatment can help you fulfil your aesthetic goal of having fuller, defined lips for a more youthful appearance. Our experienced team member, Dr. Nidhi Sharda, is an expert in facial aesthetics. He can deliver a personalised treatment plan to help you achieve excellent, natural-looking results that ensure harmony between your face and lips. James can also provide subtle lip enhancement treatment to reduce the appearance of “lipstick bleeding” (lines and wrinkles) around your mouth.
This procedure involves injecting small amounts of dermal filler into the lip. Dermal fillers are natural or synthetic gels that can be used to lift and add volume to the lips for a plumper appearance. Most dermal fillers are produced by combining hyaluronic acid (HA) with proteins to create a clear, sterile substance that is safe and effective to inject. Naturally found in our bodies, HA attracts and binds water to increase skin and soft tissue volume and hydration, but the amount of HA the body produces ultimately decreases with age.
Generally, most people can undergo lip enhancement treatment, but our team of friendly clinicians will assess your medical history to confirm your suitability. Patients that are exempt from undergoing treatment include those who are:
Pregnant or breastfeeding
Allergic to the filler or lidocaine combined with the filler
Suffering from an active infection at the site to be injected
Taking blood thinning medication, due to the increased risk of bleeding and bruising
Many dermal fillers contain a local anaesthetic, so it is unlikely that you will experience any pain during the procedure. However, as the lips are particularly sensitive, we will apply cream to numb the treatment area and further minimise discomfort. We can also provide a dental block to ensure a virtually pain-free experience.
A consultation will be arranged, where you will need to fill out a medical form and photographs of your face will be taken. During this consultation, Doctor will ask you what you hope to achieve with treatment and discuss how realistic this will be. You will then be asked to complete a consent form that will enable us to carry out the procedure. Once your lips have been thoroughly cleaned with antiseptic wipes, James will inject the filler. The treatment area will be gently massaged to ensure the filler is spread evenly across the lip for a highly satisfactory result.
You should notice the results immediately, but we will schedule a follow-up appointment two weeks after the procedure to review your condition and determine whether further treatment is required. Visible correction typically lasts between 6 months to a year, but treatment can be repeated as and when necessary.
Make sure to avoid:
Touching your lips or applying lipstick for at least 6 hours
Exposing yourself to extreme temperatures from steam rooms, saunas and UV light, which should remedy any swelling.
Taking any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. aspirin, ibuprofen) for at least 24 hours.
Mild swelling, redness, bruising and itching are typical side effects that you may experience after treatment, but these usually subside within 2 to 4 days. Prior to the procedure, we can prescribe some medication in order to minimise the risk of any cold sores occurring on or around the treatment area.
PDO threads are absorbable synthetic fibres that are threaded under the skin using small needles – a technique that is similar to those employed by medical professionals to sew soft tissue together. It takes approximately 200 days for the PDO (polydioxanone) threads to dissolve once they have been implanted. This procedure lifts and tightens the skin over time by inducing collagen production, resulting in a rejuvenated appearance. Cosmetic application of PDO threads was first developed in Korea, where it has now become one of the most popular facial aesthetic treatments.
PDO threads can be used to:
Increase soft tissue volume.
Rejuvenation the skin, including the under-eye area.
Lift the neck area where the skin may have lost its elasticity
Lift the face and contour the jaw, naso-labial (nose to mouth), marionette (mouth to chin) and jowl (lower part of the cheek) areas.
Lift the top of the nose as an alternative to filler and anti-wrinkle injections.
The majority of patients can undergo treatment with PDO threads, but we will confirm this is the case for you during your initial consultation. Treatment is not suitable for patients who:
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Have a history of keloid scarring
Suffer from autoimmune disorders
Are suffering from an active skin infection
Are currently taking roaccutane medication
Are suffering from existing systemic infections
Are allergic to the local anaesthetic, lidocaine
Are taking blood thinning medication, due to the increased risk of bleeding and bruising.
The procedure is carried out with a local anaesthetic, but it can be uncomfortable for some patients. Careful application of techniques ensures you are unlikely to experience any pain.
We will arrange a consultation, where you will be asked to complete a medical form and your photograph will be taken. Treatment will be explained to you in detail so as to provide you with the opportunity to ask any questions you might have. Your aesthetic goals and how realistic these will be to achieve will be discussed with concerned doctor.
Treatment is not typically provided on the same day as the consultation, so a second appointment will be scheduled for another day that is convenient for you. When you attend the practice for the procedure, we will ask you to fill out a consent form to confirm you are happy to proceed.
Treatment is not typically provided on the same day as the consultation, so a second appointment will be scheduled for another day that is convenient for you. When you attend the practice for the procedure, we will ask you to fill out a consent form to confirm you are happy to proceed.
If the PDO threads are used to lift the skin, there will be an immediate effect, which should be evident over the course of 3 to 4 months, as new collagen is produced and fibrous tissue continues to form. This instant result will give way to a delayed lift effect, which should last for up to 12 months.
If the PDO threads are used to rejuvenate the skin, there will be no lift effect and it may take between 4 to 6 weeks before you notice an improvement in the overall condition of your skin.
We recommend that repeat treatment is carried out a year apart.
Avoid applying make-up to the treated area for at least 24 hours. After this period, be mindful of the treads and apply your make-up gently.
Wash your face carefully, but avoid face creams and lotions for at least 24 hours.
Restrict your facial movements for at least 1 to 3 weeks or longer, as this will give the threads the opportunity to better anchor under the skin
Apply SPF 30-50 lotion to the treated area for at least 1 to 3 weeks to avoid the risk of developing dark spots (hyperpigmentation). This lotion should be applied daily regardless of any treatment in order to help reduce the signs of aging
Sleep facing upwards for at least 3 to 7 nights to avoid applying pressure on the threads
For at least 4 weeks, avoid dental appointments that may involve moving your face excessively.
Avoid consuming hot drinks and hard foods for at least 48 hours
Avoid strenuous exercises for at least 1 to 3 weeks
Avoid exposing yourself to extreme temperatures from direct sunlight, saunas and sunbeds for at least 1 week
Avoid consuming alcohol for at least 3 to 7 days
Take paracetamol if necessary, but not ibuprofen.
You might experience some degree of bruising, swelling and asymmetry. Your skin may also pucker and bunch as it is lifted, but it is better not to correct these issues, as they typically subside within 2 weeks for an optimal result.

Dentistry FAQs

The best way to overcome your fear is to discuss your concerns with your dentist. Experiences as a child may become distorted by time and reinforced by outdated media presentation of stereotypes. Much has changed, thanks to technology and education, and dentists are skilled professionals in dealing with patients who are apprehensive about seeking treatment. This will obviously be a team approach between you and your dentist and his/her staff. Communication is the key. You must feel comfortable expressing your fears and concerns and have a sense that you are being listened to. There are various forms of anaesthesia and relaxation that can be used effectively to change your negative thought.

A filling is a material (amalgam, GIC, porcelain, metal) that is used to restore functional and lasting structure to a tooth that has been disfigured by, for example decay or accidental breakage.

You may not know if you need fillings in your teeth. Many small to medium holes in teeth are asymptomatic, giving no pain. In fact, decay can sometimes eat out two-thirds of the tooth from the inside and you would have no idea it is happening. Dental radiographs (X-rays), which are taken on a regular basis as part of your check-up, may show early decay that has not yet given any symptoms. You may be able to see a change in the colour on some of your teeth which may indicate early decay. If your teeth are sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet food and drink, you may need fillings. All persistently sensitive teeth should be checked by your dentist. Toothache that lasts for more than a few minutes at a time should be investigated by your dentist. Teeth that cause severe pain may require fillings, or in some cases will require more extensive treatment such as root canal treatment.

It depends on the type of bone, and where the implant is placed into your jaw. It can range from a few months to over 9 months. Generally, implants in the front lower jaw need around 4 months; the back upper jaw needs around 9 months and elsewhere in the mouth around 6 months. These times may need to be lengthened if bone needs to be grown or grafting has taken place.

The position, shape, material, and functioning pressure, all influence how long dental fillings will last. Larger fillings that bear a heavy functional load tend to break down more quickly than smaller fillings that bear little force. This is why it is impossible and meaningless to try to state categorically how long fillings should last. However, when placing a filling, the dentist may have an idea of the expectation of the life of the filling. For example, a very small filling in the groove of a tooth away from biting pressure could be there for decades whereas a very large one in the mouth of a person who grinds their teeth may be lucky to last a few years and really should have a crown. In a check-up your dentist is constantly monitoring the state of your fillings, looking for signs of weakness, cracking, decay or discolouration.

Some fillings can be repaired when they fracture, or the tooth around them fractures, but only if there is no tooth decay present.

Most teeth with small to moderate decay or fractures are easily restored to function with fillings. Where decay is extensive or fractures are large, more complex treatment may be required. Some teeth can be so badly broken down or fractured that they are unable to be saved.

Sealants are a thin, plastic coating that is painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth — usually the back teeth (the premolars, and molars) — to prevent tooth decay. The painted on liquid sealant quickly bonds into the depressions and groves of the teeth, forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth.
Typically, children should get sealants on their permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come in. In this way, the dental sealants can protect the teeth through the cavity-prone years of ages 6 to 14. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants.
Sealants can protect the teeth from decay for many years, but they need to be checked for chipping or wear at regular dental check-ups.

A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form. A tooth’s nerve is not vitally important to a tooth’s health and function after the tooth has emerged through the gums. Its only function is sensory — to provide the sensation of hot or cold. The presence or absence of a nerve will not affect the day-to-day functioning of the tooth.

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are a set of four teeth that erupt into the back four corners of the mouth, behind the 12 year old molars. This usually occurs between the ages of 17 to 21.

Yes, as with any surgery, post operative pain, swelling, bruising and infection can occur. Other consequences of wisdom tooth removal may include, difficulty in opening the mouth, sore lips, and bleeding. There is a small risk with the extraction of lower wisdom teeth, of nerve damage that may cause numbness of the lip or tongue. Discuss the above risks and consequences of wisdom teeth surgery with your dentist and/or Oral and Maxilofacial Surgeon before having your wisdom teeth out.

Your dentist may advise you your wisdom teeth (or third molars) are impacted and that they need to be removed. What this means is that your wisdom teeth will not grow or erupt into a position that allows them to be functional teeth. Impaction may be due to soft tissues (i.e. gums), or hard tissues such as other teeth or bone. Teeth that become impacted are generally more likely to cause problems.

A denture is an appliance that replaces teeth. You remove it to clean it and it may be replacing all the teeth (full denture) or some of them (partial denture).

Before any denture treatment is undertaken, it is recommended that you have a thorough dental check-up. If you are having full dentures, it will involve an examination of the mouth and an assessment of the health of the gums. If you are having a partial denture, this check-up will include a full examination of your teeth, gums and other soft tissues of your mouth. At this check-up radiographs may be taken to ensure the teeth are healthy, and strong enough to help support a denture. Remember, the only oral practitioner who has the training and is legally able to undertake such a thorough check-up is your local dentist. You then have impressions, bite records, trial wax insertions and then the final insertion and instructions.

The rapid shrinkage of bone following extractions means the denture will soon need to have the fitting surface relined once that shrinkage has slowed down enough. After a reline, patients report a much better fit. This relining maybe done between three and six months after an immediate denture has been fitted. Your dentist will advise you when an immediate denture is ready to be relined. Relining involves an additional fee, but this is going to be cheaper than a new set of dentures and it is often very much appreciated. All dentures lose their fit through natural changes in your mouth. Chewing gum, biting your nails or grinding your teeth can accelerate this. You should see your dentist yearly for a denture check, when refitting or relining may be necessary. For example, many patients report that their full dentures are loose after a period of rapid weight loss.

Dental crowns (also sometimes referred to as ‘dental caps’ or ‘tooth caps’) cover over and encase the tooth on which they are cemented. Dentists use crowns when rebuilding broken or decayed teeth, as a way to strengthen teeth and as method to improve the cosmetic appearance of a tooth. Crowns are made in a dental laboratory by a dental technician who uses moulds of your teeth made by your dentist.

The type of crown your dentist recommends will depend on the tooth involved and sometimes on your preference.

A bridge is an appliance permanently fixed in the mouth to replace missing teeth. It uses remaining teeth to support the new artificial tooth or teeth. A conventional fixed bridge consists of crowns that are fixed to the teeth on either side of the missing teeth and false teeth are rigidly attached to these crowns. An enamel bonded bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework., to which the artificial teeth are attached, then resin bonded to supporting teeth.

Removable dentures are those dentures (plates) the wearer can remove and replace at will. These types of dentures can replace one tooth, all your natural teeth, or any number of missing teeth in between. A crown or a bridge is fixed or cemented in place and cannot be removed.

Dental fluorosis is seen as small white flecks in the surface enamel of teeth. In minor cases it is usually not visible to patients but in more advanced cases it appears as large white patches or occasional pits in the tooth surface. After some years, stains may penetrate the white patches and they can appear brown. Receiving excess doses of fluoride during the formation of teeth causes fluorosis. This can occur by eating or swallowing excessive amounts of toothpaste or exceeding the dose when taking fluoride tablets. It can also occur where there is excess fluoride in natural water supplies or a combination of all three. In extreme or severe cases of fluorosis the teeth are unsightly and may need treatment to improve their appearance. Water fluoridation alone does not cause fluorosis but it can happen in combination with other sources of fluoride.

A dental implant can be thought of as an artificial tooth root that is submerged into the jawbone. When dental work such as a crown, fixed bridge or a full set of dentures is added, one or more missing teeth can be replaced. A dental implant is fabricated from a very strong, biocompatible material placed in a simple procedure that, generally, is as convenient as a tooth extraction. After an initial healing period, during which the implant is buried in bone and left undisturbed under gum tissue, it is uncovered and connected to a small metal post that secures and supports the artificial tooth. The implant material is extremely biocompatible. The bone grows to the implant and bonds to it. This makes the implant very strong. The process is called ‘osseointegration’.

This is impossible to predict. Though research has demonstrated a long life once the implants have been integrated with bone, each patient is different, and longevity may be affected by overall health, nutrition, oral hygiene and tobacco usage. Individual anatomy, the design and construction of the prosthesis and oral habit s may also have an influence.

The adjacent teeth are not damaged or cut in any way. It helps to prevent bone loss. Implants are also used to stabilise loose dentures or even replace them with fixed bridges.

Discuss this with your dentist, as there are a few medical reasons preventing the use of implants. Sufficient bone to accept the implant is the major limiting factor. This can be assessed radiographically (x-rays), and bone can even be augmented where it is deficient.

“Gum disease” describes a range of conditions that affect the supporting tissues for the teeth. The supporting tissues comprise both the surface tissues that can be seen in the mouth and also the deeper tissues of the bone, root surface and the ligament that connects the teeth to the bone. The cause of gum disease are multifactorial, suffice to say that in the great majority of cases, the disease is entirely preventable if precise steps are taken to control the formation of plaque, and the invasion of bacteria.

Visit your DB Dental dentist, who will examine your gums as part of a normal dental check-up. X-rays are often needed to help diagnose periodontal problems. Good dental hygiene is one of the most important factors in preventing gum disease. Your dentist will show you proper brushing and flossing techniques that will help ensure healthy teeth and gums. You may need to be referred to a Periodontist who is a specialist in treating gum disease. Treatment involves careful, deep cleaning of the teeth to remove the cause of the problem. This can be done with local anaesthetic.

No. Bleeding gums are common but not OK. In a healthy state gums do not bleed. Bleeding is often an indication that the gums are inflamed. The inflammation is generally a response to the bacteria on the surface of the teeth. The surface inflammation is Gingivitis. The bleeding may also arise from periodontitis or traumatic cleaning. Bleeding gums are sometimes associated with serious medical conditions. A dental practitioner should check bleeding gums.

Even if you take great care of your teeth at home, you still have bacteria in your mouth. They mix with proteins and food by-products to form a sticky film called dental plaque. This gunk coats your teeth (even hard-to-clean areas like your back teeth), gets under your gum line, and sticks to fillings or other dental work. Once tartar has formed, only a dental professional will be able to remove it from your teeth. So, visit your dentist every 6 months to remove any plaque and tartar that might have formed and to prevent further problems.

Tartar can make it harder to brush and floss. This can lead to cavities and tooth decay.Any tartar that forms above your gum line could be bad for you. That’s because the bacteria in it can irritate and damage your gums. Over time, this might lead to progressive gum disease. The mildest form of gum disease is called gingivitis. It can usually be stopped and reversed if you brush, floss, and get regular cleanings from your dentist.

Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria. Bacteria form a ‘plaque’ which is a sticky, colourless film that forms on your teeth, particularly around the gum line. Other bacteria thrive deep in the gap between the gum and the tooth (the ‘pocket’). Some people are much more at risk of developing periodontal disease — smoking is one of the major risk factors. Other conditions such as diabetes, stress, pregnancy and various medications can all be contributing factors.

  • Bleeding gums when you brush your teeth.
  • Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
  • Receding gums.
  • Sensitive teeth or gums.
  • Loose teeth or teeth that have moved

Several different options are available to change the shape of teeth, make teeth look longer, close spaces between teeth or repair chipped or cracked teeth. Among the options are bonding, crowns, veneers, and recontouring.Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-coloured resin material (a durable plastic material) is applied to the tooth surface and hardened with a special light, which ultimately “bonds” the material to the tooth.Dental crowns are tooth-shaped “caps” that are placed over teeth. The crowns, when cemented into place, fully encase the entire visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line.Veneers (also sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates) are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials that are designed to cover the front surface of teeth. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth.Recontouring or reshaping of the teeth (also called odontoplasty, enameloplasty, stripping, or slenderizing) is a procedure in which small amounts of tooth enamel are removed to change a tooth’s length, shape or surface.

Several different options are available to change the shape of teeth, make teeth look longer, close spaces between teeth or repair chipped or cracked teeth. Among the options are bonding, crowns, veneers, and recontouring.
Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-coloured resin material (a durable plastic material) is applied to the tooth surface and hardened with a special light, which ultimately “bonds” the material to the tooth.
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped “caps” that are placed over teeth. The crowns, when cemented into place, fully encase the entire visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line.
Veneers (also sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates) are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials that are designed to cover the front surface of teeth. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth.
Recontouring or reshaping of the teeth (also called odontoplasty, enameloplasty, stripping, or slenderizing) is a procedure in which small amounts of tooth enamel are removed to change a tooth’s length, shape or surface.

All toothpastes help remove surface stains through the action of mild abrasives. Some whitening toothpastes contain gentle polishing or chemical agents that provide additional stain removal. Whitening toothpastes can help remove surface stains only and do not contain bleach; over-the-counter and professional whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide (a bleaching substance) that helps remove stains on the tooth surface as well as stains deep in the tooth. None of the home use whitening toothpastes can come even close to producing the bleaching effect you get from your dentist’s office through chair-side bleaching or power bleaching. Whitening toothpastes can lighten your tooth’s colour by about one shade. In contrast, light-activated whitening conducted in your dentist’s office can make your teeth three to eight shades lighter.

Home bleaching involves wearing very thin, transparent plastic trays moulded to your teeth, which are used to hold a bleaching agent in contact with the tooth surface. They are normally worn for approximately ten days. The active agent in the bleach is usually carbamide peroxide. This is a chemical that quickly breaks down to hydrogen peroxide, which is the chemical that lightens the teeth.

Yes. Hydrogen peroxide (the whitening agent) is actually produced in the body in small amounts and the effects have been studied for many years. DB Dental’s dentists know that the whitening process should not be abused, because bleaching teeth well beyond the recommended level can lead to damage of the enamel. When bleaching is carried out according to your dentist’s instructions, it appears to be a safe, simple procedure. The only minor complications are rare cases of slight gum irritation and heightened cold sensitivity in the enamel. It would also be wise to check first with your dentist to see if all your teeth will be likely to bleach evenly. Bleaching will be unlikely to alter the staining effects of certain types of antibiotic drugs (e.g. tetracycline) that may have been used during childhood.

This may vary depending upon the circumstances, however teeth can still become dirty and they will continue to age in a normal way with the passage of time. You should keep the trays and obtain new bleach stocks from your DB Dental dentist to repeat the whitening periodically (usually once a year). The trays will continue to fit your mouth for many years in most cases.

Home bleaching does not make the teeth as white as chalk. If it did the teeth would not look natural. Usually the whitening is subtle, but a real difference can usually be noticed between, for instance, upper teeth that have been bleached and lowers that have not. Home bleaching seems to be slightly more effective for younger rather than older people.

It makes no difference as long as you brush twice a day, and replaces it as soon as the bristles begin to fray, generally every 3 or 4 months. A worn toothbrush won’t do a good job of cleaning your teeth. Use toothpaste with fluoride.

Flossing is just as important as brushing. It helps remove plaque from places your toothbrush can’t reach, like between your teeth. This is key, because plaque that isn’t removed by brushing and flossing can eventually harden into tartar and cause gum disease or tooth decay.

If you take good care of your teeth but still get cavities, you may not be doing it right. Go over your techniques with your dentist. Discuss your diet. Sports drinks, diet colas, and exercise bars can contain acid and sugar, which lead to tooth decay. Some people have high acid content in their saliva. Your dentist can tell you more.

Exposure to all sources of radiation — including the sun, minerals in the soil, appliances in your home, and dental X-rays — can damage the body’s tissues and cells and lead to the development of cancer. Fortunately, the dose of radiation you are exposed to during the taking of X-rays is extremely small.
Advances in dentistry over the years have lead to the low radiation levels emitted by dental X-rays. Some of the improvements are new digital X-ray machines that limit the radiation beam to the small area being X-rayed, higher speed X-ray films that require shorter exposure time compared with older film speeds to get the same results, and the use of film holders that keep the film in place in the mouth (which prevents the film from slipping and the need for repeat X-rays and additional radiation exposure). Also, the use of lead-lined, full-body aprons protects the body from stray radiation (though this is almost nonexistent with the modern dental X-ray machines.) In addition, federal law requires that X-ray machines be checked for accuracy and safety every two years, with some states requiring more frequent checks.

The HydraFacial is a multi-step hydradermabrasion treatment designed to cleanse, exfoliate and nourish the skin. It involves using a patented wand that treats the skin with oxygenated, vitamin-infused water, while also removing dead skin cells, make-up, oil, and dirt trapped within clogged pores. The pressure from the water combined with the physical extraction of impurities on the surface of the skin makes this a gentle, but very effective resurfacing treatment. HydraFacial treatment can be used in combination with a chemical peel, an infusion of nourishing serums, LED light therapy and facial toning devices to enhance the overall result.

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