Author: Crofts Dental Practice

What are the benefits of orthodontics?

It is an old assumption that teeth straightening treatments are mostly for children and teenagers. Modern dentistry has made orthodontics Essex available to help adult patients improve their oral health and perfect their smiles.

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At Crofts Dental Practice, we offer quality orthodontics Essex to help patients achieve a healthier mouth and straighter smile. The first thing patients associate with wearing braces is fixing a crooked smile, but this is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg of benefits to orthodontics Essex.

Advantages of seeking orthodontic treatment

Improved dental function is an important benefit that should not be overlooked. Bite problems can result in pain when biting and chewing. In addition to discomfort and pain, patients may not be able to eat certain foods, which puts a restriction on meeting their full nutritional needs. Wearing braces to correct bite function can greatly improve a patient’s eating ability without pain and discomfort.

Achieve improved dental health for the long term. There are many risks to dental health from dental caries to gum disease to damaged teeth. It may surprise patients, but orthodontics can help with all these unwanted dental conditions.

Poor oral hygiene, which is a major cause of most dental complaints, is due to orthodontic problems like crooked teeth and overcrowding. These conditions increase the difficulties of tooth brushing and flossing. When teeth alignment is corrected, patients will find it easier to clean their teeth and maintain good oral hygiene, minimising the chances of dental diseases developing in the future.

When dental health improves, the state of physical health does too. One of the least understood roles of good oral health is protecting physical health. When poor oral hygiene leads to an overrun of bad bacteria in the mouth resulting in gum disease, there is a heightened risk of the patient developing systemic chronic conditions, which can be fatal.

Heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and other inflammatory conditions have been linked to bad bacteria that escape the oral cavity to enter deeper into the body through the bloodstream. Straightening the dental arch to make cleaning teeth more effective reduces the chance of bad bacteria overwhelming the mouth.

Range of orthodontic treatments

To encourage adult patients to consider orthodontics for enhanced oral health and function, we have available several discreet teeth straightening devices. The list of our modern orthodontics solutions includes Invisalign, Inman Aligner, Lingual braces, and Six Month Smiles.

Invisible braces are so named because they are less noticeable when worn on teeth. There are different ways to disguise the presence of braces. Some resemble aligner trays made from clear plastic material, while others look like traditional braces but are positioned behind teeth where they are out of sight.

Another benefit of modern orthodontics is that many treatment methods offer a shorter duration period. One such is the Six Month Smile which takes an average time of six months to produce desired results. Patients should be aware that this treatment plan may not be applicable to treat major orthodontic problems.

To find out more about modern orthodontic treatments to enhance smiles, come and talk to us at Crofts Dental Practice. Contact our friendly front desk team to book an appointment.

What is the importance of preventative dentistry?

An important field of dentistry we offer at our modern Crofts Dental Practice is preventative dentistry Essex. Many patients will be familiar with the dentist’s role in treating dental diseases but unfamiliar with how professional dental care is also about preventing diseases from developing. This role of dentists is referred to as preventative dentistry Essex.

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Preventative dentistry Essex involves all those treatment plans and techniques that put a stop to symptoms from progressing into full-blown problems. For example, a dentist may suggest deep dental cleaning procedures to remove plaque deposits that threaten the health and integrity of tooth enamel. Leave plaque deposits to accumulate on teeth, and soon cavities will begin to form on teeth resulting in tooth decay.

Proper at-home oral hygiene obligations together with the choice to opt for preventive dentistry techniques will help patients avoid problems such as gum disease, tooth loss and chronic bad breath.

To better understand the importance of preventive dentistry, we go over the weightiest reasons to seek preventive dental treatments.

Reasons why preventive dentistry is important

Treating dental problems early will help you save on dental care costs. Patients mostly concern themselves with what routine trips to the dentist will cost them but fail to consider the impact of not scheduling these appointments.

Without proper professional dental care, it is without a doubt that oral health will deteriorate at some point; this will then mean spending much more on treating dental problems in advanced stages than it would be to pay for preventive treatments.

Not to mention the debilitating pain that often accompanies dental problems. Preventive dentistry is said to cost patients less in dental care costs, save time by avoiding protracted treatment durations and escape the pain experienced due to dental complaints.

Get the health of your teeth checked. Many symptoms that indicate teeth and gum health are at risk cannot be identified by the patient. It is not just toothache or inflamed and bleeding gums that foretell a dental problem is in the making. There are other signs that only an experienced and knowing dentist’s eye can easily discern red flags – red flags such as tooth discolouration, weakening of enamel and problems that exist below the gum line.

Dental exams protect physical health in unexpected ways. Patients with poor oral health, especially those suffering from serious gum disease conditions, often have other medical complaints with heart and lung health.

Bacteria that give rise to gum disease also trigger inflammation in the body as well as clog up blood vessels to increase the risk of blood clots that cause heart attacks and strokes. Preventive dentistry that protects gum health work to the benefit of heart and lung health too.

Get reliable advice and guidance on how to employ preventive dental techniques at home. Patients must not forget that it is their own behaviour at home that also dictates how healthy the condition of their mouths remains.

Tooth brushing and flossing, using a good fluoride toothpaste brand and limiting the frequent consumption of acidic and sugar-rich foods and beverages are all recommended preventive techniques patients can use at home to minimise the occurrence of dental problems.

Find out more in a visit to our dentist at Crofts Dental Practice. Make a quick call to the reception desk to schedule a consultation.

How CBCT can help with diagnostics and dental implants

CBCT is a technology that is used in dentistry to get a detailed three-dimensional view of the dental structures in the mouth; this helps with diagnostics and treatment planning of dental implants Essex. dental-implants-essex

Why we invested in CBCT

CBCT technology is important for dentistry because it provides a level of detail that is not possible with traditional x-rays, which allows for more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, making our surgery safer.

CBCT is able to improve the success of almost everything we do, including dental implants Essex, and give our patients the care they deserve.

What is CBCT, and how does it work

CBCT is a type of CT scan that uses cone-shaped x-rays to create detailed three-dimensional images of the dental structures in the mouth; this helps with diagnostics, treatment planning and surgical guidance. CBCT is also used for orthodontics and implant dentistry.

The cone beam CT scanner rotates around the patient’s head to create the images. The scanner consists of a large x-ray tube and detector that rotate around the patient’s head. The x-rays pass through the patient’s teeth and bone and are detected by the detector, and the data is then processed to create a 3D image.

3D models are not only more useful than traditional x-rays, but they are also easier to transport than dental moulds. This makes them an excellent tool for both dental professionals and patients. 3D models can be used to show the location of teeth, jawbones, and other structures in the mouth. They can also be used to reveal how teeth are positioned in the jaw and show the progress of dental treatment over time. 3D models can also be used to create custom dental appliances; this means that patients who need braces, for example, can have their braces made to fit their specific mouth shape.

How CBCT is used in dentistry

CBCT is used in dentistry to get a detailed three-dimensional view of the dental structures in the mouth. This helps with diagnostics, treatment planning and surgical guidance. CBCT is also used for orthodontics and implant dentistry.

For treatment planning, CBCT can help determine the best approach for treating a problem. It can also help plan for oral implants, braces and other procedures.

CBCT is also used for orthodontics. It can help determine how much tooth movement is needed and how long the treatment will take. It can also help plan for braces on teeth that are difficult to see with traditional x-rays.

CBCT is also used for implant dentistry. It can help plan for dental implants Essex by showing the location and size of the implant site.

The future of CBCT

The future of CBCT looks very promising. With the increasing use of CBCT in dentistry, there are many new applications for the technology that are being developed. For example, CBCT can be used to create a 3D print of a patient’s teeth, which can be used for oral implants or other treatments. CBCT can also be used to diagnose tumours and other health problems. This technology is constantly evolving and improving, so the future of CBCT looks very bright.

What to expect with CEREC technology with dental crowns

If you’re looking for a dental treatment that doesn’t require multiple appointments, CEREC technology may be the right choice for you. This technology allows for single-appointment dental crowns Essex, veneers and inlays/onlays. At Crofts Dental Practice, we use CEREC technology to create tooth-coloured restorations that are indistinguishable from natural teeth.

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What is CEREC technology?

CEREC technology is a CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) system that is used to create dental crowns Essex, veneers and inlays/onlays. The system uses a special camera to take an impression of the tooth that needs to be restored. This digital impression is then used to create a 3D model of the tooth. From this model, the restoration is milled out of a block of ceramic material. The entire process can be completed within a single appointment.

Advantages of using CEREC technology

There are many advantages to using CEREC technology, including:

  1. Single-appointment treatments – with CEREC technology, there is no need for multiple appointments or temporary restorations. The entire treatment can be completed in just one visit to our dentist.
  2. Natural-looking results – the ceramic restoration milled out with CEREC technology can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth, resulting in a restoration that is virtually indistinguishable from your real teeth.
  3. Durable and long-lasting – the ceramic material used with CEREC technology is very strong and durable. With proper care, your restoration can last for many years.

What to expect when having CEREC treatment?

When you come to Crofts Dental Practice for a CEREC technology treatment, we will first take a digital impression of your tooth after removing any decay and tartar. We will then use this impression to create a 3D model of your tooth and fabricate the prosthetic, installing it the same day.

FAQs about CEREC technology treatments

  1. How long does the treatment take?

The entire treatment can be completed within just one visit to the dentist. The digital impression and 3D modelling usually take about 15 minutes. The restoration is then milled out of a block of ceramic material, which takes about 45 minutes for one of our dental crowns Essex.

  1. How much does the treatment cost?

The cost of the treatment will vary depending on the type of restoration being made. However, in general, CEREC technology treatments tend to be more affordable than traditional dental treatments.

  1. Is the treatment covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans will cover at least a portion of the cost of CEREC technology treatments. However, we recommend that you check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage.

  1. Are there any side effects?

There are no known side effects associated with CEREC technology treatments. However, as with any dental treatment, there is a small risk of complications such as tooth sensitivity or discomfort.

  1. How long does the restoration last?

With the proper care, your CEREC technology restoration can last for many years. However, it is important to note that the restoration is not indestructible and can be damaged just like your natural teeth.

What you should know about children’s dentistry Essex

If you are a parent, you will know how important it is for your children to have healthy teeth. As our dental health can affect our overall health and wellbeing, it is encouraged that parents take their children to see a dentist regularly to ensure they have good oral health. childrens-dentistry-essex

Dentistry is important for children to prevent tooth decay and oral diseases, which is why children need to have regular checkups as they may not be aware of their oral hygiene habits.

If you are based in Essex, you will be happy to know that there are high-quality dental practices that offer children’s dentistry Essex, including our own, Crofts Dental Practice based in Epping, Essex.

About our practice

Crofts Dental Practice is a family dental practice that has been providing patients with high-quality treatments within modern dentistry for over 30 years. Our dentists offer all our patients a high level of patient care and are skilled in providing dental treatments within various areas of dentistry, such as general, cosmetic and restorative dentistry. We also offer free six monthly checkups for the children of our adult patients who are registered with us to encourage them to bring their children to our practice from an early age.

Why children need to see a dentist

Children’s dentistry Essex is different from that of adults because children have many baby teeth, which leaves them more susceptible to cavities, gum disease or, even worse, tooth loss. So through regular appointments at our dental practice, our dentist can help in the prevention of all these issues by carefully monitoring your child’s dental health.

At Crofts Dental Practice, we provide a number of preventive dental treatments to our child patients, with one being fluoride applications.

Fluoride applications

Fluoride applications can reduce the risk of dental cavities and strengthen your child’s teeth. Fluoride is a mineral that is found in both water and soil and can make enamel harder. Such treatments can be used either as preventives or to repair any damaged areas in a child’s mouth.

At Crofts Dental Practice, if we have offered fluoride application for your child, our dentist will paint the fluoride on the surface of your child’s teeth to help mineralise them. This is a safe and effective treatment that can achieve an effective level of fluoride in the saliva. If needed, our dentist will also apply fissure sealants, which are tooth-coloured plastic coatings that can be applied to the biting surfaces of your child’s teeth to prevent bacteria and food debris from getting stuck in the teeth. Fissure sealants can also reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Bringing your child to our dental team at Crofts Dental Practice regularly can also allow our dentist to spot whether there are other issues with your child’s teeth such as the development of an underbite, overbite or crossbite. The sooner these issues are identified by our dentist, the quicker you will be able to treat and correct these issues and guarantee better dental health in your child’s future.

Missing a tooth?

Losing a tooth or several teeth is never a pleasant experience. Whether it is by accident, injury or even due to natural causes, having missing teeth can not only knock your confidence, but have a negative impact on your overall health if not treated. denture-essex

This is why dental practices like our own, offer dental treatments within restorative dentistry that are able to repair and replace damaged or missing teeth, and restore your smile to what it once was.

So if you are someone who is currently dealing with a dental issue such as a cracked or broken tooth, or you have lost either a tooth or several teeth, you may want to book an appointment to visit our practice, where an experienced member of our team will be able to provide you with advice and information on the best restorative dental treatment for your dental concern.

Restorative dentistry at Crofts Dental Practice

Based in Epping Essex, our surgery is a private family practice that offers dental treatments within cosmetic, general and restorative dentistry. We understand how important it is to have a smile and teeth you are happy with, which is why our team of dentists and dental professionals work hard to ensure that they provide the highest quality dental treatments for our patients.

Restorative dentistry at our practice is something we are passionate about, and we offer a wide range of dental treatments to repair and restore your smile. Over the years, with the aid of dental research and dental technology, restorative dental treatments are now more advanced and beneficial than ever before.

So if you are someone who has recently lost your teeth and you are looking for a way to replace them and restore your smile, you may want to consider one of the restorative dental treatments we offer at our practice, which is dentures Essex.

Dentures Essex

Dentures are a popular and beneficial restorative dental treatment for those who are missing several or all of their teeth. They can be either removable or fixed, and can be made from a number of materials such as plastic, acrylic resin, or porcelain.

Dentures come in different forms. For those who have lost a few teeth, partial dentures or implant-supported dentures may be recommended. For others who have lost all of their teeth, full dentures Essex will be the more suitable option given there are no healthy remaining teeth in the mouth. Whether full or partial, the dentures will be made to fit snugly in your mouth and will be custom made for each patient once impressions are taken of their mouth.

The advantages of having dentures

Replacing your teeth with dentures comes with a number of benefits. Firstly they are made to look just like your natural teeth, so this is ideal for those who may be worried about their new smile not looking as natural as possible. Dentures will also allow you to eat and speak with confidence again, without the fear of your teeth shifting or falling out unexpectedly.

Getting the most out of orthodontics

If you are considering orthodontics Essex treatment, you may feel like you have limited options. It is often thought that the only way to get a good result is by wearing metal braces for months or even years. However, this is not the case; at Crofts Dental Practice, we offer a wide range of discreet orthodontic products, each of which can give great results in a relatively short time frame. We are not affiliated with one particular company and will always put our patient’s interests first when considering treatment. orthodontics-essex

What are the different types of orthodontic treatment available at Crofts Dental Practice?

The different types of orthodontics Essex that we offer include:

Dental braces

This is the most common type of orthodontic treatment. Dental braces apply pressure to your teeth in order to move them into the correct positions.

Retainers

These are usually made from metal or plastic and are used to keep your teeth in place after you have completed orthodontic treatment.

Invisalign clear aligners

These are clear, plastic trays that can straighten your teeth without using metal brackets or wires. You will need to wear them for at least 22 hours a day, and they should be removed before you eat, drink or brush your teeth.

Fixed space maintainers

These are devices that are cemented into place to help maintain the spacing between your teeth.

How do I know which type of treatment is right for me?

Unfortunately, we cannot guide you without an assessment. The first step is to schedule a consultation with our dental team. During the consultation, we will evaluate your teeth and bite to determine which type of treatment is right for you. We will also discuss the different options available and help you choose the one that’s right for you.

What are the benefits of discreet braces?

Discreet orthodontics Essex can offer many benefits for patients. First, discreet braces and aligners can be significantly less expensive, depending on the severity of the misalignment being corrected. Second, discreet braces can be a much more comfortable option for patients as they are less likely to cause irritation to the gums and cheeks. Finally, discreet tools do not have the same impact on your life as traditional treatment.

How long will my treatment take?

The average adult can complete their orthodontic treatment within 18 months to 3 years.

During your initial consultation, our dental team will be able to give you a more accurate estimate of how long your treatment will take.

The length of time you need to wear braces or aligners also depends on the severity of your misalignment. Patients with more severe misalignments will generally need to wear their braces or aligners for a longer time than patients with milder forms of misalignment.

What should I expect during treatment?

The level of discomfort you experience during treatment will depend on you and how well you adjust to wearing braces or aligners. Some patients may experience mild discomfort, while others may experience more significant issues and soreness. In general, however, most patients find that they quickly get used to wearing their aligners.

What you need to know about dental veneers

Dental veneers Essex are a great way to improve your smile. They are thin, porcelain shells that can be placed over your teeth to cover gaps, stains, or chips. If you are considering dental veneers, here is what you need to know. veneers-essex

What are dental veneers, and what do they do?

Dental veneers Essex are thin, porcelain shells that can be placed over your teeth to cover gaps, stains, or chips. They can improve the appearance of your smile by making your teeth look whiter and more even. Dental veneers are a great option if you are not happy with the appearance of your teeth.

How long do dental veneers last?

Dental veneers are a permanent solution to your smile. Once they are placed, they will last for many years. With the proper care, your veneers can last a lifetime. Debonding is where the veneer comes away from the tooth; this is the most common long-term issue, but if the veneer is undamaged, it can easily be reattached.

Who is a candidate for dental veneers

If you are considering dental veneers Essex, you may be wondering whether you are a candidate. Most people with healthy teeth are good candidates, but it is important to assess tooth health, fill any cavities and stop progressive decay. There are three main types of dental veneers: traditional, no-prep, and min-prep.

Traditional veneers require the removal of a thin layer of enamel from your tooth before they can be placed. This type of veneer is suitable for those who have highly misshapen teeth or significant staining or crowding. No-prep veneers do not require the removal of any enamel from your teeth; the veneers can be placed directly on top of your teeth. No-prep veneers are suitable for patients with minor dental imperfections.

Min-prep veneers only require the removal of a small amount of enamel from your tooth. They are a good option for patients who have minor dental imperfections and want to avoid the removal of a large amount of enamel.

If you are considering dental veneers, talk to our dentist at Crofts Dental Practice to see whether you are a candidate.

What are the risks associated with dental veneers?

The risks associated with dental veneers are minimal, but they do exist. Dental veneers can chip or crack, and they may not be the best option for people with sensitive teeth. If you already have thin enamel, then any form of tooth prepping is unwise.

There are also hazards like encroaching cavities, which start at the edge of the veneer and develop underneath it; however, this can be managed with regular checkups and good oral hygiene.

In-brief

If you are considering dental veneers, it is important to know what they are and what they can do for your smile. Dental veneers are thin, porcelain shells that can cover gaps, stains, or chips on your teeth. They can improve the appearance of your smile by making your teeth look whiter and more even. Dental veneers are a great option if you are not happy with the appearance of your teeth. With proper care, your veneers can last a lifetime. Talk to our dentist to see whether you are a candidate for dental veneers.

How adult orthodontic treatment in Essex can be fast and efficient

Do you feel self-conscious about your smile? Are you too embarrassed to laugh or grin in front of others? If so, adult orthodontic treatment may be the perfect solution for you. Six Month Smiles Essex can help straighten your teeth and give you the confident sparkle you deserve in just a few short months! six-month-smiles-essex

At Crofts Dental Practice we have found adult orthodontic treatment is very successful, especially when using compound treatment. This type of care is designed to correct common problems such as overcrowding, gaps, and misalignment.

The best part about this kind of adult orthodontic treatment is that it can be completed in a shorter amount of time than using traditional braces. In fact, most of our patients only need to wear the system for six months before seeing results. This revolutionary orthodontic system uses clear braces and tooth-coloured wires to quickly and efficiently straighten your teeth. The average treatment time is just a matter of months, which means you can achieve your dream of a smile in less time than you might first expect.

Not only is it fast, it is also more comfortable than using traditional braces. The clear brackets and tooth-coloured wires are much less noticeable than metal braces, so you can feel confident about your appearance during treatment. And because Six Month Smiles Essex targets only the teeth that show when you smile, you won’t have to worry about discomfort or irritation from brackets and wires rubbing against the inside of your mouth.

If you are interested in Six Month Smiles Essex, contact our practice to see if you are a candidate for treatment.  If you’re ready to improve your smile and dental aesthetics, you could be well on your way to a straighter more confident beam in no time!

This is an affordable, fast, and comfortable orthodontic solution that can give you the smile you have been looking for. If you live in Essex and are interested in orthodontic treatment, contact our clinic. You could be smiling confidently in just six short months.

Adult orthodontic treatment can be just as successful as that for children, if not more so. The main difference is that adult patients are usually more compliant with their treatment plan and follow the dentist’s instructions to a tee. This means that they tend to see results much faster than their younger counterparts.

If you’re considering orthodontic care, don’t hesitate to book a consultation with our dentist. They will be able to assess your individual needs and give you an estimate of how long treatment will take. In most cases, you can expect to see noticeable results within a few short months. So what are you waiting for? There’s no time like the present to start achieving.

Remember, we can help straighten your teeth and give you the confident smile you deserve for any special occasion which might be on the horizon, when cameras could be flashing. So, call our team at our practice today for more information about the options available to you.

The top 5 benefits of dental implants

Dental implants Essex, with our dentist at Crofts Dental Practice, are a popular choice for patients with missing teeth, as they offer a number of benefits over other solutions such as dentures or dental bridges. Here we talk about the top 5 benefits. dental-implants-essex

Oral implants look and feel like natural teeth

This is because they are made to match the colour and shape of your existing teeth by our dentist. Dental implants Essex are also designed to fuse with the bone in your jaw, giving them a secure and stable base. This means that they won’t slip or move when you’re eating or talking, which can be a common problem with dentures.

When you have implants, there are no food restrictions. Implants allow you to eat whatever you wish to without worrying about your teeth slipping or moving. Our patients find this can make mealtimes much more enjoyable.

Implants can also be used to support dental bridges by our dentist if you have more than one tooth missing.

Oral implants are strong and durable

They are made from titanium, which is an extremely strong and durable material. Oral implants can last for many years with the proper care, and they’re much more resistant to wear and tear than other teeth replacement options such as dentures.

Oral implants don’t require special care

You can brush and floss your oral implants just like you would your natural teeth. There’s no need for special cleaning solutions or products. Oral implants are also resistant to tooth decay and gum disease, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your new teeth are less susceptible.

Implants are also less likely to develop  decay; they are impervious to cavities as they don’t have tooth enamel. However, we would advise that it’s still important to practise good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing regularly.

Oral implants can help to preserve your facial structure

When you lose teeth, the bone in your jaw starts to deteriorate; the calcium is recycled from the bone and its mass reduces. This can cause your face to look sunken or aged. Oral implants help to preserve the bone in your jaw, giving you a more youthful appearance.

Oral implants can improve your overall oral health

Implants don’t just look and feel like natural teeth – they also function like them. This means that they can help to improve your bite and make it easier to eat and speak. They can also close gaps in your mouth which may have acted as areas for harmful plaque and bacteria to accumulate which would normally be problematic for your teeth and gums.

Our dental implants Essex comprise a high-quality option for replacing teeth at an affordable price. We offer a free consultation so that we can assess your individual needs and devise a treatment plan that is right for you.

While the upfront cost of implants can be higher than other tooth replacement options, it’s important to consider the long-term costs. They are a lifetime investment, and with proper care, they can last for many years. In comparison, dentures need to be replaced every few years and dental bridges also need to be replaced. Contact us today to book an appointment if you would like to learn more.