Blog
Inman Aligner vs Invisalign
Inman Aligner vs Invisalign - what’s the best for me?
There are a few options to choose from if you are looking to straighten your teeth without the use of traditional metal braces. Two of the most common options adults choose to straighten their teeth are Invisalign Braces and Inman Aligners.
What is an Inman Aligner?
The Inman Aligner is a simple removable appliance used to align front teeth quickly and safely. It can be used as a standalone treatment or can be used with veneers for other cosmetic cases. Inman Aligners are typically used by adults who had braces when they were younger but over time their top or bottom teeth have shifted and started to crowd again. They are also suitable for adults who have never worn braces, who have some crowding in their top or bottom teeth.
The Inman Aligner has nickel titanium coil springs powering two aligner bows that gently oppose each other, guiding the teeth into their new position. The aligner will require frequent adjustments (every couple of weeks) to keep teeth moving into the desired position.
Advantages of using an Inman Aligner
Some advantages of the Inman Aligner are:
- It is easy to remove and clean
- Less expensive treatment than Invisalign or traditional braces
- Results can be seen very quickly
- Only one aligner is required for the entirety of the treatment
- Ideal solution for the crowding of visible top or bottom teeth in adults
What is an Invisalign?
Invisalign Braces is a treatment that uses a series of removable clear hard plastic retainers that are individually manufactured for your teeth to gradually reposition them over the course of the treatment. The retainers are nearly invisible when worn so they are ideal for people who may be concerned about the appearance of traditional braces. The number of Invisalign retainers that are required is dependent on the complexity of the treatment, but it ranges from around 20-30 aligners over the course of the treatment in order to realign teeth effectively.
Advantages of using Invisalign retainers
Some advantages of the Invisalign retainer treatment are:
- It works very well for a variety of different cases
- Suitable for a wide range of patients;
- Invisalign Teen for children
- Invisalign Full for more complicated cases
- Invisalign Go for quick alignment of the front teeth in under 5 months
- A clear and discreet option for straightening teeth
- Smooth hard plastic retainers with no wires or brackets are comfortable to wear
- Most popular global brand
Inman Aligner vs Invisalign – what is the best option?
Both treatments are a good alternative to a traditional brace and both have different advantages, so it really depends on your personal circumstances. While Inman aligners tend to be a more straightforward solution, Invisalign retainers can offer a more comprehensive treatment.
Inman aligners only focus on the visible top and bottom teeth whereas Invisalign Braces can be used as a long-term orthodontic treatment for the full mouth, so this alone may tell you which option is best suited to your individual requirements.
Invisalign aligners should ideally be worn for around 22 hours a day and only removed to eat and drink. In contrast Inman aligners need to be worn for around 16 hours per day. If a patient is consistent in wearing the either type of aligner for the recommended duration results can often be seen quickly.
The best option for you will depend on your individual alignment issues. Here at Spa Dental Clinic we offer both Inman Aligner and Invisalign treatments in our brace services offering. Call us on 01905 773 111 or book your free consultation today.
Dental Implants – Complications
Dental Implants - Complications
What can happen to dental implants if they aren’t taken care of?
When you decide to have an implant, it is a large investment and is something you have to continually maintain. This can be done by implementing the oral hygiene advice we recommend here at Spa Dental Clinic and practising good dental implant aftercare.
If dental Implants aren’t taken care of, then the area surrounding the implant can get inflamed, leading to damage and eventually implant failure.
What is peri-implant mucositis?
Peri-implant means around the implant, whilst mucositis is inflammation of the gums. This term, therefore, means inflammation of the gums surrounding the dental implant. This is reversible, in the same way, gum disease is. At the same time, if nothing is done about it then it can lead onto peri-implantitis.
What is peri-implantitis?
This means inflammation around the implant which involves the underlying bone. This is similar to periodontal disease with natural teeth.
How can I prevent this from happening?
After your dental implant, we recommend regular visits to the practice which will be advised by your dentist. This allows your dentist to monitor how your implants are healing and advise you on whether there are any signs of these complications developing.
If you have recently had dental implants and don’t have a follow up appointment booked, then contact us today and will get you booked in.
Dental Implants at Spa Dental Clinic
To find out more about Dental Implants then please contact Spa Dental Clinic and your dentist will be able to help you. Contact us today to book your free consultation to find out the best solution for you.
If you have any feedback about this information then please let us know and this will really help us to help you.
Dental Implants – Aftercare
Dental Implants - Aftercare
Have you had dental implants or are you going to have them and want to know how to take care of them? You are on just the right page for that information.
It is really important you take care of your dental implant in the best way possible, as they can last as long as your teeth if looked after properly.
What do I do after I have had the dental implants placed?
Dental Implants are very easy to keep clean, but you need to make sure you do this on a daily basis to prevent the implant from failing from peri-mucositis or peri-implantitis.
To clean your dental implants, make sure you use an antiseptic mouthwash such as 10ml of chlorhexidine. You can use this in the morning and at night for a minute. We have this available in the practice so just ask us next time you are in, and this can be used for gum disease too.
In addition, rinse your mouth with warm salty water after every meal to help with the healing of the area and to prevent infection.
Will I be in pain after my dental implant is placed?
You will be surprised by how little pain you will experience. The general advice is to use mild pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen should you experience slight discomfort, and you should find that this manages it very well.
Your dentist will provide you with specific information regarding these pain relief tablets when you come in for your dental implant appointment.
Do I brush my dental implant?
You should not brush your dental implant if you have just had it placed until the stitches are removed. Once this has been done there are particular brushes you can use to keep the implant clean, such as Tepe brushes specifically for implants, or super floss. The videos below will help you to see how to brush your dental implants:
How to use Tepe brushes to keep the implant clean either side:
How to take care of your implant with super floss:
What if I have multiple dental implants or Valplast dentures that are kept in by my implants, how can I take care of it then?
There are multiple methods, but this video highlights some of the tools that you can use to keep your implants clean:
You can also place the antiseptic gel to ensure it is cleaned effectively in between the teeth.
Do I still need my implant to be checked?
Yes, the implant needs to be maintained and checked by your dentist. Sometimes, if you aren’t able to maintain good oral hygiene, you can develop peri-mucositis or peri-implantitis, so it is important to keep these follow up appointments.
Dental Implants at Spa Dental Clinic
To find out more about Dental Implants then please contact Spa Dental Clinic and your dentist will be able to help you. Contact us today to book your free consultation to find out the best solution for you.
If you have any feedback about this information then please let us know and this will really help us to help you.
Why Have Dental Teeth Whitening?
Why have dental teeth whitening?
Dental teeth whitening is great for that special occasion if you have a single tooth that is a different colour to the rest, or you just simply want your teeth to look whiter!
What does dental teeth whitening involve?
There are certain things that can be removed from your teeth without the need to whiten your teeth. There are stains that form on the outer surface of your teeth that are caused by coffee, tea, smoking and foods such as beetroot for example. If this is the cause for your staining, then there is the option of airflow stain removal, which we offer here at Spa Dental Clinic.
However, the teeth can be naturally dark because of the second layer of the tooth shining through, known as dentine. This can be caused by age, trauma and tooth abnormalities for example. It is common to have a darker shade of teeth. If you have yellow, brown or orange teeth, then Zoom teeth whitening is the option for you!
How do teeth whiten?
- The use of a chemical agent called hydrogen peroxide that only dental professionals are able to apply.
- It breaks down and this bonds to the tooth to allow it to appear colourless.
- The higher the concentration we use, the greater the result of whiteness!
What stains my teeth?
It is really important you limit the number of items that can stain your teeth to prevent the shade relapsing. These include red wine, black tea, black coffee, smoking, curry. You can sometimes have these removed with airflow stain removal alone, so we do recommend you have airflow stain removal before Zoom teeth whitening in certain situations.
Do I qualify for dental teeth whitening?
You will not qualify for dental teeth whitening If you are:
- Pregnant
- Under 18
- Immunocompromised
- A heavy smoker or get stains quickly
What do I need to be aware of if I choose to have my teeth whitened?
It is important that you know the following information:
- If you have exposed roots then these will not be whitened
- If you have white fillings or any other fillings/crowns then this will not be whitened and you should consider having them replaced after the whitening if you do not like their appearance.
I have just had my teeth whitened but not sure how to carry out the whitening top up at home?
It is great to hear that you have chosen to whiten your teeth, we hope you are pleased with the result. To take care of your teeth, simply follow the instructions provided in your home kit.
I need more whitening gels because I have run out, where do I get them from?
You can get these from the practice – speak to reception for more information when you are next in.
Want your teeth whitened?
You can let your dentist know at your next consultation that you would like to try dental teeth whitening and they can get this sorted for you. Alternatively, contact us today to book your free consultation or to find out more.
If you have any feedback about this information then please let us know and this will really help us to help you.
Valplast Flexible Dentures – Denture Care
Valplast Flexible Dentures - Denture Care
Have you just had Valplast Flexible Dentures made? Or have you had them for a while but your dentist is saying you need to keep them cleaner?
Whether you used Spa Dental Clinic for your Valplast Flexible Dentures or not, you are on the right page!
Why do I have to take care of my dentures?
If you don’t keep your dentures clean on a daily basis then you can experience gum problems, decay and even thrush. It is therefore really important you undertake the denture hygiene advice provided on this page.
How do I take care of my dentures?
Taking care of your dentures is simple but it just requires you to make sure you do this regularly. At Spa Dental Clinic, we recommend you do the following:
- Remove and rinse all surfaces of your dentures after eating, as well as rinsing out your mouth
- Brushing your dentures daily with either a toothbrush or a denture brush with soap and water to keep the denture clean. Don’t use any toothpaste as this is abrasive and can damage the denture.
- Milton’s is a highly effective denture cleaner which can be used against thrush causing organisms. Immerse your denture for at least 15 minutes, following the instructions for sterilising a baby bottle. You can also use Steradent tablets, these can be effective if used twice a day and left in for 3 minutes
- Keep your dentures away from your pets as they have a tendency to want to chew them!
- When cleaning your denture, do so with a hand towel in your washbasin or fill the washbasin with water to prevent you from dropping the dentures and breaking them – this is really common!
- Keep your dentures out at night as much as possible. This will prevent you from having thrush in your mouth. Thrush thrives in moist environments, therefore keeping your dentures out of the mouth at night is the best way to prevent getting it.
- Instead, soak your denture overnight in a solution such as Milton’s to prevent the thrush containing organisms developing
- Use warm and not boiling water
- Do not use bleach containing products as this will discolour the acrylic dentures and corrode the metal on cobalt chrome dentures
- If your denture is slightly loose you can use Fixodent.
General advice for your Valplast Flexible Dentures
Valplast Flexible Dentures at Spa Dental Clinic
If there are any issues with your Valplast Flexible Dentures then please contact Spa Dental Clinic and your dentist will attend to your issue. Contact us today to book your free consultation or to find out more.
If you have any feedback about this information then please let us know and this will really help us to help you.
Invisalign vs Braces – How Do They Compare?
Invisalign vs Braces - which is right for you?
For those who have considered straightening crooked teeth, it can be difficult to choose between the orthodontic options available. Most people find themselves choosing between Invisalign vs braces, two differing types of braces that are the most popular options for improving your smile and straightening crooked teeth. But, there are some key differences that should be considered when choosing which type is best for you.
Invisalign Braces
Invisalign braces are made of a clear thermoplastic material that is moulded to fit the exact shape of your mouth and teeth. Invisalign braces are changed every two weeks for the next set and work by applying gentle pressure to the teeth to straighten and move them into position in small steps. Can Invisalign straighten crooked teeth? Well, yes, but we aim to answer that question more in depth for you here, while also providing you enough information to make an informed decision about choosing Invisalign vs braces.
The advantages of Invisalign braces
Aesthetics
When comparing Invisalign vs braces, as Invisalign braces are clear, they provide a much more discreet way of straightening crooked teeth. The almost invisible appearance of Invisalign braces makes them a popular choice for adults and teenagers as they are barely noticeable to other people.
Faster treatment time
Typically, when straightening crooked teeth, treatment time is much faster with Invisalign vs Braces, so the results of Invisalign are shown much faster. On average, Invisalign treatment time is 12 to 18 months compared to traditional braces where treatment usually lasts from 18 months to 2 years.
Removable
Invisalign braces are removable which means that they can be taken out when eating and whenever you need to clean your teeth. This removes the need for any food restrictions as well as the risk of any damage to your braces from food.
Comfort
Invisalign braces are one of the most comfortable types of dental braces available. They work by applying a gentler pressure to the tops of the teeth and, as there are no metal brackets or wires, rubbing against gums and cheeks and mouth sores are non-existent.
Fewer follow-up appointments
Compared to traditional braces, Invisalign follow-up appoints are less often and only required every 6 weeks to check progress.
The disadvantages of Invisalign braces
Movement can be interrupted
Although Invisalign braces are removable, it is required that they should still be worn for 22 hours a day. When Invisalign braces are not worn enough, movement can be interrupted and results can be delayed. Therefore, Invisalign braces require a greater level of self-discipline in comparison to traditional braces.
Cost
When considering the cost of Invisalign vs braces, pricing can vary, this is because the cost of treatment is dependent on the complexity of your dental issues as well as the number of Invisalign trays required. As a guideline, the cost of traditional fixed braces starts at around £3,295 while Invisalign braces can cost from £3,500 upwards.
Not ideal for complex cases
In contrast to traditional braces, Invisalign braces are not recommended for those with more complex dental needs such as patients that have bridgework on several teeth.
Traditional braces
Traditional braces consist of metal brackets and wires that are attached to the outside of the teeth to manipulate them into straightening. Rubber bands are also sometimes used to help move the teeth into the desired position. Traditional braces can be used to resolve a wide range of dental issues and improve bite issues and oral health.
The advantages of traditional braces
Fixed to the teeth
Traditional braces are fixed to the enamel of the teeth and will stay in place all day long. This eliminates the risk of losing an aligner or not wearing them for long enough; both of which can result in teeth moving out of place.
Cost
When it comes to the cost of treatment, traditional braces tend to be much cheaper than Invisalign braces. Costs for traditional fixed braces start from around £3,295 and NHS dental braces are free in the UK for those under 18 or NHS Patients eligible for treatment.
Complex cases
For those with more complex dental issues, traditional braces can achieve a better result vs Invisalign braces. As force is applied at the root and fixed braces provide better grip, resolving issues and alignment for more difficult cases with traditional braces can be much more effective.
The disadvantages of traditional braces
Not aesthetically pleasing
The obvious metal wires and brackets make traditional braces less aesthetically pleasing when compared to Invisalign. This can be a more significant issue for teenagers and adults who want their orthodontic treatment to be more discreet.
Cleaning
Cleaning your teeth can be more difficult and timely with traditional braces. Patients with fixed braces need to be more thorough when brushing their teeth in order to maintain a high standard of oral hygiene and avoid staining, plaque build-up and decay. More specialist brushes are also required to reach in between the wires and brackets and clean teeth more effectively.
Food restrictions
There are some restrictions on the types of foods that you can eat when wearing traditional braces, these include foods that are:
- Sticky
- Chewy
- Hard
- Brittle
These foods should all be avoided in order to minimise the risk of any damage to the braces.
If traditional braces were to become loose or damaged, immediate fixes are required to help to prevent any unplanned movement.
Regular follow-up appointments
Regular follow-up appointments are required once a month with traditional braces for maintenance and to also check the progress of treatment. Tightening and adjustments are also carried out at these appointments.
Less comfortable
Due to the brackets and wires being attached on the outside of your teeth, there is some risk of rubbing against the gums and cheeks which can cause mild discomfort due to sores and cuts.
Dental braces at Spa Dental Clinic
For those struggling to choose between Invisalign vs braces, Spa Dental Clinic offers a wide range of dental braces to suit all needs and budgets. We can help you establish which type of braces are best for you with our FREE braces consultation. Contact us today to book your free Invisalign vs braces consultation or to find out more about our dental braces.
Veneers Procedure – What to Expect
Dental Veneers Procedure - What to Expect
The typical dental veneers process requires two visits to your dentist. The first appointment for a detailed consultation, followed by a second appointment where your dentist will carry out the veneers procedure.
The veneers procedure begins with your consultation. During your consultation, you will have a chance to discuss what you are hoping to achieve with your dentist. Your dentist will examine your teeth to ensure that dental veneers are appropriate for you and give you a breakdown of what the veneers procedure entails.
Appointment 1 – Preparation
One of the first steps of the veneers procedure is to have some x-rays and impressions made of your mouth and preparation work done to your teeth.
To prepare the teeth for the veneers procedure, your dentist will need to slightly reshape the tooth’s surface, also known as the enamel. Reshaping the natural tooth surface allows for the veneer to fit comfortably and naturally in the mouth. Reshaping the surface of the tooth can result in a sensitive sensation, so you and your dentist will decide if you wish to use a local anaesthetic during this process.
After the enamel has been removed, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth using a mould. This impression gets sent to a laboratory where your dental veneers are created. This process usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Appointment 2 – The Veneers Procedure
Before your veneers are permanently attached to your teeth, you and your dentist will have time to examine the colour and fit of the veneer to ensure that you are happy with the result. The veneer can be trimmed to achieve a better fit and the colour adjusted with the shade of the cement used to bond the veneer to your tooth.
To prepare the tooth for the veneers procedure, your dentist will clean and polish the tooth surface and do some slight etching to roughen the surface. The cement is then applied to the veneer and onto the tooth before being bonded using an activating light that hardens the cement.
Your dentist will make any final adjustments to the veneers and ensure that you are happy with the results.
How to care for veneers
Caring for your veneers is very similar to caring for natural teeth. It is recommended that you brush your teeth thorough
ly and floss twice a day. Consider limiting the amount of stain-inducing foods and drinks that you consume to avoid stains and discolouration. Careful maintenance of your veneers will help them to last as long as possible without the need to replace them.
If you are interested in veneers or wish to find out more about the veneers procedure with Spa Dental Clinic in Droitwich, you can call our friendly reception team today on 01905 773 111 to book your FREE consultation.
If you have any feedback about this information then please let us know and this will really help us to help you.
How Often Should You go to the Dentist?
How Often Should You go to the Dentist?
At Spa Dental Clinic in Droitwich, a lot of our patients ask us how often should you go to the dentist? The NHS recommends a dental check up every 3 months to 2 years depending on the health of your teeth and gums and the likelihood of any future problems. It is important to have regular appointments to detect any problems early and keep your healthy smile beaming!
During your appointment, the dentist will look for:
Signs of Cancer
The dentist will check your soft tissues for signs of Oral Cancer if you smoke or drink and advise you how to prevent it.
Overall Health
Your mouth offers a snapshot of your health, such as stress and vitamin deficiency. The dentist may offer some information for a healthier lifestyle.
Oral Health
You may be asked about your current habits and dental cleaning regime. The dentist may also teach you new cleaning techniques to improve your oral health.
Gums
Healthy gums are firm and pink. The dentist will check for any signs of Gingivitis which causes bad breath and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it could result in bone loss and eventually tooth loss. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the UK.
Teeth
Your teeth and restorations are checked for any decay. Detecting problems early can save you money in the long run.
Dental Cleaning
The dentist will give your teeth a good clean from any build-up of plaque.
Treatment Plan
If you require further work, the dentist will discuss the options available to you. Once you have decided the course of action that is best for you, you will receive a copy of your treatment plan.
If you are looking to book a dental check-up, get in touch or call the practice today on 01905 773111 and our friendly reception team will be happy to book you in.
If you have any feedback about this information then please let us know and this will really help us to help you.
What is Zoom Teeth Whitening for Teeth?
What is Zoom Teeth Whitening for Teeth?
Bring your smile up to 6 shades whiter with Zoom teeth whitening at Spa Dental Clinic in Droitwich. You will get outstanding results and with little to no sensitivity.
If you decide to have in-practice teeth whitening we will start by checking the current shade of your teeth, so you can see the difference after your treatment for yourself.
Before the procedure, a consultation appointment is required so that the dentist can discuss your options and expectations of what can be achieved. There are some factors such as tooth wear that can affect the results of Zoom teeth whitening and this will be also discussed during the consultation.
The teeth whitening process will be carried out in less than one hour. This is how your treatment will proceed:
Your dentist preps your mouth for whitening by applying a layer of advanced whitening gel to your teeth.
To speed up the whitening process, the blue LED Zoom lamp will be shined onto your teeth. This accelerates the whitening and the lamp’s variable settings allow for a comfortable experience.
This is repeated three times – and whitening is completed in just 45 minutes!
Once you’ve reached your desired shade, your dentist will apply a post-treatment gel which helps to protect enamel and reduce sensitivity.
Before you leave you will receive customised teeth whitening trays and a take-home whitening kit, which is included in the price of your treatment. This allows you to top-up the brightness of your smile whenever you want to.
After treatment, it is important to maintain a high standard of oral hygiene in order to prevent any colour relapse. Foods and drinks that can stain the teeth such as red wine, tea and coffee should also be avoided where possible. The customised teeth whitening trays and home whitening kit should help you maintain the whiteness of your teeth.
Find out more about teeth whitening or call Spa Dental Clinic on 01905 773111 to book your FREE consultation.
If you have any feedback about this information then please let us know and this will really help us to help you.