A study has identified a possible link between mouth bacteria and meningitis. They suggested that regular brushing and flossing could help prevent the disease. The suggestion came after researchers in Zurich found a new bacterium in the blood of patients with meningitis. This bacterium is also found in patients with a type of heart disease called endocarditis. It is thought the bacterium could enter the bloodstream via bleeding gums. More research is required to confirm this but it reinforces the need for good oral hygiene.

We are very pleased to announce that laser dentistry is available at our practice. The Power Pen Laser allows us to perform a number of procedures which were otherwise very invasive and involved significant treatment. The procedures include the use in conventional dentistry, endodontics, periodontics, surgery, treatment of ulcers, wisdom tooth pain, tooth whitening and much more! If you are interested in laser dentistry, please do not hesitate to contact us today. Tel 020 773 11162.

We believe in creating beautiful smiles using the least invasive techniques possible. The overall results can be truly outstanding. We have developed a fantastic technique called ABC: A is for alignment with Invisible braces B is for bleaching C is for cosmetic bonding This technique involves NO needles, NO drilling, NO irrveresible procedures that can harm your teeth and gums. Below is a typical case which was recently completed by Dr Nissit Patel.
 

Dental implants are the gold standard to replace missing teeth so why follow the PIP scandal? Whether you have one, several or all missing teeth, dental implants can provide you with a long lasting and natural solution. If you are considering dental implants, we urge you to research which dental implants are going to be used.

Only choose a dental implant system which is backed by extensive research over many years. Look at the websites of the companies and read about the research involved in the dental implants and their latest products. 

We are strongly against techniques that are not evidence based. It may be tempting to choose an implant that is 1/3 or 1/2 the price which your own dentist offers, but we would urge you to choose a well known company, a skilled and experienced dentist and a dental practice that offers personal care dedicated to your needs. 

Dr Nissit Patel only uses the very best materials in all aspects of dentistry including dental implants. For a free quick consultation or chat on dental implants, call us on 0207 7311162.

We wish you all a very happy new year. With the festive season now over, it is now time to make those new year resolutions and attempt to stick to them! What better resolution than improving your oral health? Improving dental health will reduce your risk of future dental problems which can be invasive and costly. Prevention is far better than cure. Arrange your initial consultation and hygiene appointment today and start 2012 will a brighter, whiter smile.

Researchers from Sweden have discovered that periodontal or gum disease may in fact predict a person's risk of heart failure, stroke and heart attack. The researchers examined almost 8000 patients with gum disease and the results showed that certain types of gum disease can in fact predict the risk of cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks, heart failure and strokes. If you have bleeding gums, bad breath, bad taste, yellow build up on the teeth, loose teeth or gum recession then you are very likely to have gum disease. Do not delay. Contact us today for a full clinical assessment, diagnosis and treatment plan. Preventing or treating gum disease can help fight other more serious health issues. Call us on 020 7731 1162.

Our practice policy is to run an amalgam free clinic. We do not place amalgam restorations at all. Why do we adhere to this policy? We believe that modern materials using adhesive technology are a far superior alternative to old fashioned amalgam fillings. We do have safe procedures to remove amalgam fillings. We routinely use rubber dam to protect the airway and prevent the amalgam from being swallowed or inhaled. Please ask us to assess your amalgam fillings and determine if a suitable replacement without any metal or mercury is possible. Call us on 0207 7311162 today.

Our next Case of the month involves a dental implant to replace a missing canine tooth. This tooth had been missing for nearly one year. Being at the front of the mouth, aesthetics were vital. Only a natural looking tooth would suffice. Did you know that canine teeth are extremely important teeth in relation to your bite? In many cases, these teeth provide the guidance to your bite and sliding movements. Therefore, the treatment in this case had to be planned very carefully. Below are the before and after photographs.
 

The question is often asked 'what is the best filling for my tooth?' The answer lies in the material which is most like a natural tooth. The options range from amalgam (metal fillings), white fillings, gold fillings or porcelain inlays/onlays. The benefits of porcelain inlays/onlays are:

1. It is 100% bio compatible.
2. It will not shrink in the mouth.
3. It is not affected by water/saliva/heat or cold.
4. It has a wear strength similar to tooth with adequate thickness and properly polished/glazed.
5. It looks just like natural teeth.
6. It does not require heavy destructive preparation of the underlying tooth (in most cases).

Below is case completed by Dr Nissit Patel, where 2 molar teeth were heavily decaying under amalgam metal fillings.