There is a certain stigma attached to dentures that is not particularly flattering, although it might be undeserved. People lose their teeth for many reasons. It may be the result of tooth decay and gum disease but it could also be as the result of a physical injury or head trauma or even as a complication form other diseases. Losing your teeth is not a very pleasant experience and can be the source of great pain and embarrassment. It can also make even simple actions like eating and talking difficult, as well as negatively affecting the profile and facial structure.

This is why Chelmsford dentists recommend that if you have lost your teeth you should try and replace them with a set of dentures. Modern dentures are far more advanced than dentures in the past and should be much better fitting. Not only will dentures restore the appearance of a healthy set of teeth but they will also act as a rigid support for the facial muscles. This will help to prevent the sunken, sagging appearance common to many people who have lost their teeth. This can make you look a lot older than you are, and more unhealthy. Of course dentures will also enable you to eat and talk with little difficulty.

Some patients who wear dentures are often concerned that they are loose and ill-fitting and may fall out at an embarrassing moment. This can be overcome with denture adhesive, although this can be messy and limit what you can eat. Good dentures should fit with suction alone so see your dentist if you are concerned about your loose dentures. You may be suitable for dental implants which act as a secure base for dentures alleviating the anxiety that loose dentures can sometimes cause. Call 01245 268 494 for a free consultation at Advance Dental Clinic in Chelmsford.

There are two main types of veneers that can be placed over the top of damaged or discoloured teeth to restore the cosmetic appearance of a smile. Composite veneers are made of a resin and are made in laboratory or even constructed in the mouth during an appointment. The other type of veneer is made entirely from porcelain and is cemented over the top of teeth using dental bonding.

Although composite veneers are cheaper, they do not look nearly as realistic as a porcelain veneer which are specially designed to resemble tooth enamel. Composite veneers are more suitable for individual teeth that are damaged or for repairing small cracks or chips. When it comes to replacing a whole dental arc that has been damaged by staining or discolouration there really is only one option. Also, as technology advances, new tools are being developed to speed up the manufacturing process of porcelain veneers and with technology such as digital x-rays and Cerec, it is now possible to sculpt veneers from a single piece of porcelain in a matter of minutes.

Other modern porcelain veneers are incredibly thin, some the same width as a contact lens, which can be fitted over the teeth with no enamel removal and can be completely removed themselves should the need arise. They are in fact so thin that they can fit over existing veneers and other dental repair work.

As well as completely restoring the appearance of damaged teeth, porcelain veneers from a Colchester dentist also play an important protective role. Acting as a second layer of enamel they protect the teeth from decay adding another important barrier to tooth decay. Call 01245 268 494 for a free consultation at Advance Dental Clinic in Chelmsford.

Apart from tooth decay the most common and damaging form of dental concern is gum disease. It is a problem that affects most people at some point to varying degrees, with few people ever even realising they are suffering from gum disease. The mild form of the disease is known as gingivitis and can be easily treated with increased cleaning and regular dental check ups. More serious forms of gum disease may require more thorough treatment with antibiotics and even a gingivectomy, which is the removal of gum tissue. This more serious form of the disease is called periodontitis and requires treatment from the dentist to prevent the further spread of infection. Gum disease has even been linked to causing heart problems. This is because the infection is able to spread into the blood stream in the mouth and can directly attack the heart and other areas of the body.

The most effective form of treatment for gum disease is of course prevention. Maintaining a high standard of oral hygiene will help to prevent gum disease and the associated problems. This can be achieved by brushing correctly for three minutes twice a day. This helps to stop plaque building up. Plaque is a filmy substance made of bacteria and other debris that coats the teeth and attacks the enamel and gum tissue and is one of the primary sources for oral infection. Flossing at least once a day helps to remove trapped food particles from between then teeth that brushing cannot remove. This helps to keep the levels of dangerous bacteria in the mouth low. Flossing also cleans the teeth below the gum line, which again is an area hard to reach with regular brushing. Dentists also advise cleaning your tongue with a specially designed tongue cleaner to remove bacteria. Lastly and most importantly is to keep up six-monthly appointments with a dentist who will be able to spot the first signs of gum disease. They can also offer hygiene advice and carry out a thorough deep clean of the teeth and gums.

If you are concerned about gum disease or are experiencing irritable or even bleeding gums, then make an appointment to see a dentist as soon as possible. Catching and treating gum disease early can make treatment easier and prevent any further health complications. Call 01245 268 494 for a free consultation at Advance Dental Clinic in Chelmsford.