Do you suffer from tooth wear? Are your teeth short and jagged at the edges? Are they sensitive? Do they look unattractive? If the answer is yes to any of these questions, then just look at our case study below on how to fix them. Here is the answer!
 

One of the most common questions we are asked is how can I straighten my teeth quickly and without anyone knowing. Well, we have the answer- lingual braces. Here are some FAQs about lingual braces: 
 

What are lingual braces?

These are braces placed on the inside of the teeth, completely hidden from view. 
 

Are they suitable for me?

Lingual braces can be used for virtually any condition. 
 

Why are they not as readily available as conventional braces?

Lingual braces are technically more difficult as teeth have a different anatomy on the inside. The surface area is reduced and the enamel surface is very different. It is also far more difficult for the dentist to access the inside of the teeth and make the necessary adjustments-skill is required!
 

Can they be used just to straighten my front teeth

Yes, of course. A technique called Social 6 lingual aims to straighten the front 4 teeth only. The brace is only placed on the front 6 teeth so it is very small, comfortable and quick. 
 

Is it painful?

Remarkably, in most cases no. This is because the forces used are very light but constant. The forces also act in a different plane to conventional braces. However, the tongue may get caught and irritated by the brace and this can be sore! 
 

Will it affect my speech?

Yes. In most cases, there will be some lisping especially with 's' and 't' sounds. This usually resolves after a few weeks.
 

Will I be able to eat whatever I like?

No. It is advised that you stick to a soft diet for the first few weeks and then gradually eat harder, chewy foods as you become used to the brace. It is generally much more difficult to eat with lingual braces than conventional braces. 
 

How much do they cost?

This depends on each individual case. In general, lingual braces are more expensive than conventional orthodontics and are a premium product. For full mouth lingual hidden braces, prices start from £4000 upwards. 

If you have any questions on lingual braces, hidden braces, invisible braces then please do not hesitate to contact us. We provide a free quick consultation over e mail- just send us some photos of your teeth.

Our case of the month for March is a wonderful teeth straightening case. Our client was extremely unhappy with her crooked and uneven smile but was conscious of wearing braces that were visible. After a full clinical analysis and careful treatment planning, we decided on using invisible braces. Take a look at our before and after photos- great end result.
 

Good dental hygiene leads to good overall health. It is as simple as that. There is now overwhelming evidence that links poor oral health and gum disease to many systemic illnesses such as cardiac disease, respiratory issues and diabetes. Therefore it has never been so important to visit the hygienist on a regular basis. We recommend that a visit to the dental hygienist should be at least twice a year.

If you suffer from gum problems or are undergoing major treatments with orthodontics or dental implants, then you will require additional visits. Not only will your teeth and gums feels fresh and healthy, you are also investing in your overall health. So why wait, contact our hygienist first thing in the morning and book your appointment.

Tooth wear is becoming an increasingly major problem. The main causes of tooth wear are: 

1. Bruxism - grinding teeth at night time.
2. Acidic diets.
3. Stress causing extra clenching and bruxism.
4. Gastric reflux.
5. Parafunctional habits such as nail chewing, pen biting for example 

These can all lead to teeth that are fragile, weak at the edges, smaller and asymmetrical. This can lead to significant fracture of the teeth and require more advanced treatments such as root canals and crowns. However, if the areas are treated early, future problems can be avoided. For example, please view our case study below:
 

Our case of the month involves closing a space in between the upper front teeth. Spaces can be unsightly especially at the front of the mouth. However, we have the techniques to close the space discreetly, quickly and affordably. Just have a look at our before and after photos:
 

One of the joys of dentistry is being able to produce wonderful smiles, change a persons cosmetic appearance, improve confidence and well being. It's always nice to have something positive written about you after a job well done. One of our latest testimonials follows from Nicola. Nicola underwent treatment with lingual braces for the upper teeth due to crowding. The end results were fantastic and here is what she had to say: 

Nicola: I have no hesitation in recommending Dr Nissit Patel and his team at Progressive Dentistry. I hadlingual braces fitted to my top teeth and the results have been amazing. Within 7 months I had a brand new smile! I am so pleased. Dr Patel instantly puts you at ease and is always on hand for follow up treatment and advice if necessary. All the staff are extremely pleasant. If you need dental treatment this is definitely the place to go!

Just a reminder that we now offer Saturday dental and hygiene appointments EVERY week. Our new dentist, Dr Jessica Doherty, is accepting new dental patients on Saturday's for routine dental care, cosmetic dentistry, oral surgery and children's dentistry. We also provide a walk in dental hygiene service. Simply contact us by phone, e mail or book online to book you appointment with the hygienist directly. Sparkling clean teeth for the weekend, what could be better?