Our dental tip of the week involves teeth whitening. Teeth whitening can be achieved without expensive treatments by following these simple steps: 

1. Visit the dental hygienist. Stain removal will instantly whiten your teeth and keep your gums healthy.

2. Avoid staining foods and drinks. These include coffee, strong tea especially green tea, dark berries, artificial colourings and curries.

3. Use an electric toothbrush. High quality electric brushes are far better at removing stain than manual toothbrushes.

4. Use teeth whitening strips. These are inexpensive and do not require any messy gels or impressions. Teeth whitening need not be an arduous, expensive procedure. 

Start the process and contact us to book your hygiene visit now.

We are delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for the Best Dental Practice and Best Team awards in London at the Dentistry awards. The Dentistry awards are the largest dental awards ceremony in our profession and to be shortlisted for the final is a great honour. We believe that the service we offer is second to none and the awards go a small way to justifying our belief. We continue to innovate and be the most progressive dental practice in London. 

Please keep an eye on our news section and learn more about what Progressive Dentistry can do for you.

Did you know that we offer direct access to our dental hygienist through our walk-in service? As of May, this year, the General Dental Council (GDC) granted permission for members of the public to see the dental hygienist WITHOUT having to be referred by a dentist. Therefore, all you have to do is call us, e mail us or book online to see Jenny directly.

Why is dental hygiene so important? Here are 5 reasons why you should visit the dental hygienist at least twice a year:

1. Dental plaque is the main cause of dental disease - removing plaque will reduce your risks of developing dental problems.

2. Halitosis is caused mainly by poor oral hygiene - bad breath is not a desirable feature!

3. Poor gum health is linked to many systemic diseases such as heart disease and respiratory disease. Why increase your risk when you can see a hygienist straight away.

4. Poor oral hygiene can lead to periodontal disease and ultimately tooth loss - prevention is far better than cure and there is NO direct cure for periodontal disease.

5. Clean teeth look great, healthy and fresh.

You will be amazed at the difference a visit to the hygienist can make. So why wait. Book your dental hygiene visit today- you will not regret it.

Patients with stained teeth who come to see us in the quest for whiter teeth ask us about the professional treatments on offer to fulfil their wish for whiter, cleaner looking teeth.

Patients also frequently ask what causes staining and how to avoid it. Most staining is easily removed during a routine scale and polish, but some things that cause staining can also cause long-term damage to natural teeth as well as fillings and veneers.

- Cigarettes, as well as cigars and betel nut/tobacco chewing. Stoptober has started, it's never too late quit smoking. 

- Some mouthwashes, in particular Corsodyl. After around a week of use, will start to cause a brown/yellow stain on the teeth. This mouthwash should only be used on your dental professionals advice. Try Peroxyl as an alternative to help tackle gum disease, its oxygen producing formula is great for killing off bacteria. Any strong mouthwash should be used in the short-term only, and doesn't replace the effectiveness of brushing/flossing.

- The mixture of tannin and acid in Red Wine is a well known stain producing drink. White anyone?

- Tea and Coffee both contribute to staining. Try swapping espresso for a milkier alternative to avoid heavy staining and add milk to tea. Beware of some Herbal Teas, they are some of the worst offenders. We notice that good quality (preferably organic) herbal tea will cause less staining than cheaper options

- Richly coloured sauces and spices

- Beware of sports drinks, they are highly acidic, which makes teeth more susceptible to taking on the colouring in the drink. Drink water to avoid this problem, or coconut water after exercising which will help to naturally hydrate you as it is full of natural electrolytes.

If you have any questions regarding stained teeth or how to whiten your teeth, please do not hesitate to contact us.

If you live or work in Fulham, you may wonder how do you choose a dentist. Well, we believe that there are 5 key points why Progressive Dentistry is the premier dental practice in Fulham, SW6:

1. We are a truly progressive dental clinic with an emphasis on minimal intervention to produce stunning results. Our methods are unique and all of our treatments are kind to teeth and gums and biologically sound.

2. We have a team of experts led by renowned dentist Dr Nissit Patel, who is a clinical teacher at Guys Hospital London and has achieved the prestigious title of Master Of Clinical Dentistry in Prosthodontics by Kings College London.

3. We use state of the art technology including laser cavity detection, digital x rays, intra oral cameras and magnification.

4. We only use the finest dental materials and techniques available which are evidence based and proven effective.

5. We are the only practice in Fulham which provides regular case studies and case of the month series which highlight the pride we take in our work and the excellent results that have been achieved.

So if you are looking for a Fulham dentist, look no further. Our sole aim is to provide personal dentistry that is tailored to your needs. Please contact us to see how Progressive Dentistry can help.

After recent changes to the rules, direct access to the dental hygienist is now possible. What does this mean? Well, the main differences are:

1. There is no need to be referred by a dentist to see the hygienist.

2. You can simply call the practice, even as a new patient, to book an appointment with our hygienist.

3. Follow up dental hygiene visits can be booked directly without a dental examination.

It is still essential, in our opinion, to see the dentist at least once a year for your dental examinations and risk assessments. Working together as a team, will reduce your risk of developing dental disease. After all, prevention is better than cure! To book with our hygienist directly call us on 0207 7311162 or e mail us on info@progressivedentistry.co.uk.

Appointments are available on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and selected Saturdays.