FAQs
A cold sore is a small blister caused by the herpes simplex virus (usually type 1), which develops either on the lips or around the mouth. For people who have the virus, trigger factors such as being ill with cold and flu, exposure to extreme temperatures or weather, ultraviolet light from sunshine or sunbeds, and feeling stressed or run down may result in a cold sore.
A cold sore usually starts as a tingling or burning sensation around your mouth. An antiviral cream (such as aciclovir) applied at this stage may prevent the visible signs of the cold sore from appearing. Otherwise, small, painful, fluid-filled blisters appear, most commonly on the edges of your lower lip; antiviral cream can be helpful at this stage. When these blisters burst, the cold sore weeps a highly contagious fluid of viral particles and this stage is very infectious. After several days a scab will form, protecting the new skin beneath. If the scab dries, cracks or bleeds, moisturising the area may help reduce the problem. Usually after 1-2 weeks the cold sore will have healed.
Cold sores are infectious, and the virus can be passed on to other people by close contact. It is important to avoid touching your cold sore, because you can pass the virus on to other people’s hands. If you do touch the affected area, you must wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
At Rectory House Dental Practice, we ask patients that if you have had a cold sore for less than 2 weeks, please reschedule any non-emergency dental treatment or hygienist appointments until after this contagious period has passed. This is not only because of the high risk of spreading the virus, but also to ensure that your lips do not crack and bleed during treatment.
If urgent dental treatment is required e.g. if you are in pain and need immediate attention, our dentists will request that your cold sore is protected with a cold sore plaster (available at most pharmacies) to minimise the risk of cross-infection during emergency dental treatment.
If you have a non-emergency dental or hygienist appointment arranged, please give us a call on 01483 575620 with as much notice as possible, to reschedule your treatment.
Your Dentist Will Check for Mouth Cancer at Every Dental Health Check
Most common places for head and neck cancers
mouth,
throat
voice box
salivary glands
nose and sinuses
thyroid
Symptoms
An ulcer or white or red patch anywhere in the mouth that does not heal within 3 weeks.
A lump or swelling anywhere in the mouth, jaw or neck that persists for more than 3 weeks.
Difficulty swallowing, chewing or moving the jaw or tongue.
Numbness of tongue or other area of the mouth.
A feeling that something is caught in the throat.
A chronic sore throat or hoarseness that persists more than 6 weeks.
Unexplained loosening of teeth.
Risk Factors
Tobacco use is the main cause of mouth cancer.
Drinking alcohol to excess can increase risks four fold.
Drinking and smoking together can make mouth cancer up to 30 times more likely to develop.
Poor oral care of mouth and teeth increases the risk of a number of diseases and can also hide key symptoms of head and neck cancers
Poor diet and social deprivation is linked to a third of all cancer cases.
The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), transmitted through oral sex, could overtake tobacco and alcohol as the main risk factor within the next decade.
Exposure to the sun is a cause of skin cancer which can affect the lips and face.
How to check yourself – a 2-minute DIY check?
Nearly 62% of adults have never checked their mouths for signs of cancer but things can change in your mouth very quickly. Remember it is likely to be six months between your dental health checks, and in the current climate possibly even more.
So, it’s important you check your mouth yourself once a month. It takes just two minutes.
Face – Look at the whole face – are there any swellings you haven’t noticed before. Inspect your skin – has anything changed recently like Moles becoming larger or started to itch or bleed. Turn your head from side to side – this stretches the skin over the muscles making lumps easier to see.
Neck – Run your fingers under your jaw and feel along the large muscle either side of your neck. Are there any unusual swellings, such as a lump on the side of the neck. Does everything feel the same on both sides.
Throat – Have there been any recent changes in your throat that have lasted longer than three weeks. Has your throat been sore or have there been changes in your voice. Has there been a cough or pain in swallowing
Lips – Use your fingers and thumb to feel the inside f your mouth. Pull your cheeks away, one side at a time with your fingers. Look for any red or white patches. Does everything feel the same on both sides? Use your finger in the check to check for ulcers, lumps or tenderness. Repeat on the other side. Your tongue can be helpful to located sore areas, ulcers or rough patches.
Gums – Use your thumb and forefinger. Examine your gums feeling around the gym for anything unusual.
Cheeks – Open your mouth and pull your cheeks away, one side at a time with your finger, Look for any red or white patches. Does everything feel the same on both sides? Use your finger in the cheek to check for ulcers, lumps or tenderness. Repeat on the other side. Your tongue can be helpful to locate sore areas, ulcers or rough patches.
Tongue – Gently stick out your tongue and look at one side first and then the other. Look for any swelling, ulcers of change in colour. Examine the underside of your tongue by lifting the tip of your tongue to the roof or your mouth.
Floor and roof of mouth. Tilt back your head and open your mouth wide to inspect the roof of your mouth. Look to see if there ar changes in colour or ulcers. Check for changes in texture with your finger. Lift your tongue up and look underneath at the floor of your mouth. Look for any colour changes that are unusual. Gently press your finger along the floor of your mouth and under your tongue. Feel for any lumps, swelling or ulcers.
Do you take new patients?
Yes, we do. To register you as a new patient we will invite you to a New Patient Appointment where your dentist will carry out a full dental examination. This may include, along with a general assessment of your teeth, taking photographic scans and appropriate X-ray pictures and photographs, an oral cancer screen and a check on your gum health. This appointment is about an hour long.
Your dentist will also take a full medical history to make sure that they are fully aware of any illnesses or medication that you may be taking, and they can then treat you safely. We will also address any concerns or answer any questions you have about any aspect of treatment or your oral health.
Once your examination has been completed, your dentist will discuss the findings and the various options available to you and then confirm your discussions in a letter to you outlining any stages of treatment that are needed, including timings and fees.
Is there a waiting list?
We don’t have a waiting list; you can get in touch at any time to enquire about availability. Pop into the practice or call us on 01483 575620.to enquire about an appointment.
Do you take NHS patients?
We are a fully private practice.
I’m a nervous patient. Can you help me?
We understand that some people are nervous about having dental treatment, especially with a new dentist. We will do our utmost to ensure your visit and treatment are as painless and stress-free as possible
.
Please just tell us how you feel and what worries you, so that we can work with you to help reduce your anxiety. You will find us sympathetic and friendly.
Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions about what will happen during your appointment.
Can I cancel my appointment?
We are always happy to change or cancel your appointment, providing you give us with two business days’ notice.
However, failure to attend an appointment, or provide sufficient notice of a cancellation, will incur a cancellation fee of £30 if we are unable to re-book the time allocated to you. Please see this link to our Late Cancellation Policy.
Can I spread the cost of my treatments?
Our affordable membership plans offer you the ability to spread the cost of your routine dental treatment by paying monthly by direct debit. Follow this link to find out more about them.
Are you open outside normal office hours?
Our opening hours are 8.30am – 5.00pm and we close for lunch from 1-2 pm.
However, if you have an urgent problem out of normal working hours, please telephone the practice and listen to the recorded instructions.
Can I get an emergency appointment?
We do try our best to accommodate all emergency appointments, however they are subject to availability.
Can I just see a hygienist?
Your dentist doesn’t necessarily have to refer you before you can see a hygienist, so if you wish to see one of our hygienists please give us a call to discuss. However, we recommend that you keep seeing your dentist for regular check-ups, as well.
What should I do if I knock my tooth out
PICK IT, LICK IT, STICK IT! and go to a dentist immediately.
If you are unable to replant a tooth, put it in milk and go to the dentist immediately.
Never replant a baby tooth.
Why Is Flossing So Important?
Flossing cleans the areas between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. Food particles can become caught up in these small spaces which then causes a build-up of plaque which hardens into tartar and is difficult to remove. Over time, bacteria contained within plaque can attack the teeth and gums causing tooth decay and gum disease. Daily flossing removes many of the particles so that plaque can’t build up.
We laughingly say “Only floss the teeth you wish to keep!”
Why do my gums bleed after I brush, is this something to worry about?
This could be due to an infection or gum disease. Please contact your dentist or give us a call on 01483 575620.
Should I worry about my child’s teeth grinding?
Teeth grinding, which is known as bruxism in medical terms, is a condition associated with adults as well as children.
Usually, children who grind their teeth do so at night. Most of the time they are not aware of their teeth grinding actions. Teeth grinding can not only cause headaches and jaw pain, but it can wear down teeth, which may cause children to complain about tooth pain or sensitivity to hot and cold.
What’s the best way to get rid of bad breath?
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common problem that many people experience. The best way to get rid of bad breath is by practicing good oral hygiene including brushing and flossing your teeth (cleaning the gaps between your teeth) twice daily, using an antibacterial mouth wash, and avoiding foods and drinks that are high in sugar.
If you are still experiencing bad breath after practising good oral hygiene habits, you may have a more serious underlying condition such as gum disease or sinus infection which can be diagnosed by your dentist.
How do I treat Sensitive teeth?
Sensitive teeth can be caused by various factors such as gum recession, worn-out tooth enamel and cracked teeth. The best way to treat sensitive teeth is by visiting your dentist who can identify the underlying cause and determine the best course of action for treatment. Your dentist may suggest desensitising toothpaste or fluoride treatments to reduce tooth sensitivity.
What type of toothbrush should I use?
When it comes to toothbrushes, there are a variety of options available. The best type of toothbrush for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Generally speaking, the most effective type is an electric toothbrush as it can help remove more plaque than manual brushes with less effort. For those who don’t want to use an electric toothbrush, medium manual brushes are recommended.
How can I prevent cavities?
Cavity prevention is key when it comes to oral health and this is one of the most frequently asked questions. The best way to prevent cavities is by brushing your teeth twice daily with toothpaste containing fluoride, flossing (cleaning the gaps between your teeth) regularly, using a mouth rinse, and avoiding sugary food and drinks. It is also important to visit your dentist regularly to help detect cavities in their early stages.
What is tooth whitening
Tooth Whitening is a procedure which lightens the colour of your own teeth.
How does tooth whitening work?
The active ingredient is carbamide peroxide in a glycerine base. It works by oxygen entering the enamel and dentine and the stains are dissolved away.
Is tooth whitening right for me?
Whitening can be a significant part of a smile makeover. Your dentist will always check the suitability of your teeth, as it may not be recommended for some patients.
It’s important to know that your dentist may not be able to treat all your teeth as whitening can’t change the colour of fillings, crowns or veneers, for example. Your dentist can explain and suggest any options open to you.
Patients with erosion and tooth wear are not suitable candidates for whitening.
It is not recommended if you are pregnant or breast feeding. There have been no known adverse reactions to the bleaching treatment, but long-term clinical effects are unknown.
What are the risks involved
The risk involves the continued use of the peroxide solution for an extended period.
For short and medium periods clinical research indicates that using carbamide peroxide to whiten teeth is safe on the soft tissues (gums, cheek, tongue, and throat).
The long-term effects are as yet unknown but likely to be insignificant as the active ingredient is rapidly broken down in the body.
Are there any side effects?
Most patients experience no side effects. Other may experience sensitivity after a few days. This is usually slight and temporary. If this should occur, refrain from using the bleaching treatment for 2-3 days or apply desensitising toothpaste to the tray and then wear overnight.
Existing fillings, crowns and veneers do not whiten. Whitening may be limited in already veneered teeth but translucent all-ceramic restorations such as veneers, inlays and overlays may pick up the whiter tooth colour with the so-called chameleon effect.
How is tooth whitening carried out
We advise a hygienist visit first, to ensure that the teeth are clean and devoid of any deposits prior to the manufacture of whitening trays.
We will demonstrate use of the whitening gels to you at the practice. We provide our patients with upper and lower customised trays which fit over the teeth. Patients must wear the trays overnight.
How white will my teeth get
The amount of whitening varies with the individual. Most patients achieve a significant change within 2-3 weeks.
It will help if you try to reduce consumption of foods such as tea, coffee, red wine, berries, or curries during and after treatment for at least 1 month. It is advisable not to smoke during and after treatment, for at least 5-8 weeks.
How long will it last
The effects of whitening can last for many months but should not be regarded as a permanent alteration of shade. Tooth colour may relapse with time, especially if you are a smoker or drink large amounts of tea, coffee, red wine or eat heavily coloured food such as beetroot or curries.
Whitening can be repeated when desired, as it is easy to "top-up" once or twice a year. Without a top-up, your teeth will start to re-stain with the same substances that caused them to stain originally.
Can I use off the shelf whitening kits
Over-the-counter whitening agents may work, but because they are not dentist monitored many of them are ineffective especially if teeth and gums have not been maintained.
By having your teeth whitened in a safe controlled environment under supervision of a dentist, you can have whiter teeth in a shorter time.
Give us a call on 01483 575620 and see how we can help you gain that whiter smile.
What are they?
A removable denture replaces missing teeth. ‘Partial’ dentures replace a few missing teeth and ‘full’ or ‘complete ‘dentures are needed if all the natural teeth are missing.
Complete dentures are best made of acrylic (plastic). Partial dentures can also be made wholly of acrylic. Alternatively, they can consist of acrylic teeth on a chrome cobalt alloy base: this type of partial denture is more secure and less bulky, but comes at a higher cost.
Choosing the right option
Your dentist will assess your needs based on:
The number of teeth you are replacing
Your oral health
Your budget.
What will my dentist do and how will a denture be made?
The dentist uses a putty-like material, or a digital scan, to make molds of your mouth called ‘impressions’. A dental technician uses them to make models on which the dentures will be built. Sometimes, more detailed impressions are taken.
The technician makes wax blocks, which fit the models. The dentist records the position of your jaws in relation to each other, to show the technician how your teeth should bite together, and the shape to make the denture.
A trial denture is made and fitted in your mouth. The dentist will ask you how it fits, feels and looks before they make any final changes.
The trial denture then goes back to the technician who completes the manufacturing process and then the denture will be ready to use. The dentist may want to see you again fairly soon to see how you are getting on with the denture. If there are problems, they can make small adjustments.
What are the benefits?
If you have lost some teeth, dentures can improve the way you look, bite, chew and speak.
They are custom-made to match your mouth and can be made to look as natural as possible.
The teeth that are left are protected from wear and tear. Without dentures, the natural teeth may move or tilt, stopping your teeth from biting together properly.
Dentures can be fitted immediately after teeth have been taken out, so that nobody will know that you have had a tooth out. These are called ‘immediate’ dentures.
Dentures will never feel like your own teeth and it can take time to get used to them. If you haven’t had a denture before, the dentist will want to explain the difficulties of wearing dentures, as well as the benefits and how you should look after your new dentures and the teeth you have left.
Give us a call on 01483 575620 for further information.
The following QR Codes will provide leaflets that offer information on Orthodontic procedures.
Why is cleaning important
Just like natural teeth dentures and bridges collect bits of food, plaque (a sticky deposit, mostly made of bacteria) and tartar (hardened plaque). By keeping them clean, you can stop decay in any remaining natural teeth and help prevent gum disease (which can lead to tooth-loss). It’s also good for your comfort and appearance to clean dentures as dirty dentures can make your mouth swollen and sore.
Cleaning a denture is quite easy because of course, you can take it out of your mouth. Cleaning all round and underneath a fixed bridge is harder. Your dentist or hygienist will show you how to do it.
How to look after a denture?
Clean the denture over a basin of water so that it doesn’t break if you drop it.
Brush the denture inside and out every day. You can use your normal toothpaste but this can be quite abrasive when you brush it directly onto dentures. You can buy special denture toothpaste or just soap and water.
At Rectory House Dental practice, we recommend using a Dental Pod Oral Appliance Cleaner. See our Home Page for more details. Available now from us for just £79.99.
Ask your dentist about denture-soaking solutions. Soaking a denture will not clean it, you still need to brush it. Rinse your denture before putting it back in your mouth.
Ideally dentures should be left out of the mouth for at least 4 – 6 hours, preferably 8 hours in every 24 hours. However, if you find this impractical or embarrassing you should still make sure you clean your dentures by brushing with a toothbrush and special denture toothpaste.
When you are not wearing it, keep your denture in water to ensure it does not dry out.
How do I clean a bridge
How you clean will depend on where the bridge is in the mouth and its design. As well as normal brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing at each end of the bridge you will need to keep the bridge clean underneath. You can:
Floss with a threader or a special floss with a stiff end which you can use to clean underneath the bridge.
Use interdental brushes (your dentist will tell you what size and shape to buy)
Use Water jets – sending stream of water underneath the bridge
What are the benefits?
By keeping a denture or bridge clean, you help keep your gums and teeth healthy and avoid bad breath
People who wear dentures sometimes get an infection called oral thrush. Thrush is more likely if you wear a denture all the time. Good denture hygiene is important in preventing oral thrush.
Schedule a call with one of our dentists on 01483 575620 and see how we can help you further.
What is root canal treatment
Root canal treatment, also known as endodontics, is a dental procedure that cleans and seals the inside of a tooth to save it from being extracted due to infection or decay. It involves removing the infected pulp (soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels) from the tooth's inner chamber and root canals, then cleaning and disinfecting the area, and finally filling and sealing it to prevent further infection.
How many appointments are necessary for root canal treatment?
Sometimes root canal treatment is completed in one appointment but usually two or three visits may be necessary.
How long will the tooth last following root canal treatment?
With proper restoration and care your tooth may last a lifetime after root canal treatment. Proper dental care includes regular brushing and flossing, proper diet and periodic dental check-ups.
Does endodontic therapy hurt?
With the use of modern techniques, root canal therapy typically involves little or no discomfort. Often there is pain before treatment and endodontic therapy provides relief.
Will there be pain after procedure?
Cleaning the root canals may cause some slight tenderness but usually over-the-counter pain killers alleviate the discomfort. If pain persists or if you experience severe pain, call your dentist.
How much does endodontic treatment cost?
The expense of an endodontic procedure varies depending on how severe the problem is and the type of tooth. Molars with two or three canals are more difficult to treat and the fee will therefore be more. Endodontic treatment is usually more economical in the long term than any other alternative treatment.
What are the alternatives to endodontic treatment?
The alternative to endodontic treatment is extraction of the tooth. Loss of a tooth could create a functional problem such as chewing or an aesthetic problem. Restoring the lost tooth may involve the provision of a prosthetic replacement such as a denture, bridge or a dental implant the costs of which are variable.
Can all teeth be treated endodontically?
Occasionally a tooth cannot be saved. Endodontic treatment can be performed only if the root canals are accessible and can be adequately cleaned and sealed. The tooth must also have sufficient bone support. We only carry out treatment where we can give a good long term outlook.
Can the treatment fail?
Endodontic treatment can have success rate of up to 90% in general if carried out to a good standard allowing the tooth to remain in function. Problems can occur if the tooth develops decay or the restoration on the tooth fails, or on occasions despite good care the tooth may not heal as expected. Further endodontic treatment or surgery may be carried out if appropriate. A tooth that develops a crack can also be a cause of failure and may result in loss of the tooth.
Why can the treatment fail?
Endodontic treatment can fail for a number of reasons: It was not possible to treat narrow or curved canals well enough or the canals were not fully cleaned during the initial procedure. The tooth may have additional complicated anatomy that was not found on the initial treatment.
The final restoration was not placed quickly enough or the final restoration leaked due to a poor fit, fracture or recurrent decay around it.
Will I need to return for any additional treatment?
Your tooth should be examined at an interval after treatment to make sure that it has properly healed.
What is Endodontic Retreatment?
Teeth that have had endodontic (root canal) treatment can last as long as natural teeth, however, in some cases the treatment can fail or symptoms can persist. This may happen shortly after the treatment has been performed or even years following the treatment.
In these cases it may be possible to carry out the treatment again, a procedure called endodontic retreatment.
Is retreatment more complicated than initial root canal treatment?
Retreatment is usually more complicated than initial root canal treatment as the tooth is normally fully restored with a permanent restoration. This can range from a simple restoration to a full coverage restoration such as a crown or as part of a bridge. In addition to this a post may have been placed inside the root prior to a final restoration being placed. This creates difficulty as access to the root canals is more difficult.
Additionally the canals will have been filled with root filling material and hence this has to be removed before they can be instrumented and cleaned again. All of these obstructions make the process more complicated.
Who does the retreatment procedure?
All dentists can carry out endodontic treatment but many prefer not to carry out retreatment procedures as this can be more challenging and may require additional equipment that may not be readily available.
Your dentist may opt to refer you to another practitioner who either has greater experience and training in the procedure or to a dedicated specialist endodontist for the procedure. A specialist endodontist is a practitioner who is registered and approved by the General Dental Council to carry out all forms of endodontic treatment. The endodontist will have more additional dental equipment that may facilitate the procedure.
What will happen if I am referred to an endodontist?
The endodontist will discuss with you the treatment options for your tooth. The endodontic procedure will be explained to you as well as the costs for the treatment.
What will happen during the retreatment?
If you decide on retreatment the endodontist will gain access to the root canals of the tooth to remove the root filling and clean the canals again prior to refilling the canals. In many cases the restoration on the tooth will have to be removed, including complex restorations such as crowns and posts to allow the procedure to be carried out.
Will the retreatment be successful?
Retreated teeth can function for many years if the reasons for the initial failure can be overcome. Advances in technology have allowed retreatment to be carried out on complicate problems but like most medical and dental procedures difficulties can prevent some teeth from responding to the treatment. The endodontist can advise on the likely success of the procedure and difficulties prior to the procedure.
How much will the procedure costs?
The cost of the retreatment is usually dependant on how complex the procedure might be but would normally cost more than the original root canal treatment.
What are the alternatives to retreatment?
Usually the alternatives would be removal of the tooth or endodontic surgery. Removal of the tooth would then leave a space that may or may not be acceptable functionally or aesthetically and perhaps would require a prosthetic replacement tooth in the form of a denture, bridge or implant. Endodontic surgery involves lifting the gum or gingival tissue after a small incision to allow access to the root tip that is the cause of the persistent problem. This root tip can then be treated and sealed. Endodontic surgery would allow the existing restoration to be retained, however retreating the canals is usually the first and best option. Your endodontist can advise on the particular options for your problem
Want to know more?
If you have questions before or after your treatment, your dentist will be happy to talk to you.
Is vaping harmful to oral health?
Vaping can negatively impact oral health, although it may be less harmful than traditional smoking. Vaping can lead to dry mouth, tooth decay, gum disease, tooth staining, and potentially increased risk of certain oral cancers. The long-term effects of vaping on oral health are still being studied.
Tobacco smoking is well known as one of the most important risk factors for periodontal (gum) disease development and progression. It is little surprise that much attention is being focused on the potential effects of e-cigarettes on periodontal health.
Recent studies have made the following findings:
There is evidence to suggest that e-cigarette use has some impact on periodontal parameters compared to non-smokers/former smokers. Tobacco smokers have consistently worst outcomes.
There is evidence to show that plaque levels are higher in e-cigarette users compared to non-smokers/former smokers and higher again in smokers.
There is evidence to show that e-cigarette users have lower bleeding and gingival indices that non-smokers/former smokers. Similar effects are seen between e-cigarette users and smokers.
Nicotine vaping is not risk-free, but it is less harmful than smoking.
If you smoke, vaping is better, if you don’t smoke, don’t vape
How do I protect my teeth while vaping?
Drink More Water: Vaping can dry out your mouth and reduce saliva production. Saliva helps wash away bacteria and protect your teeth. Drinking plenty of water can keep your mouth moist and rinse away harmful particles.
Are the oral health effects of vaping reversible?
The oral health effects of vaping can be reversible to some extent with proper care and cessation of vaping. However, certain damages like gum recession may require professional intervention for full recovery. Understanding the risks and seeking dental advice promptly is crucial.
Does vaping cause receding gums?
Vaping can contribute to receding gums. Nicotine and other chemicals in e-liquids can restrict blood flow to the gums, leading to gum recession and other oral health problems like gum disease and tooth decay.
Can I vape before a root canal?
Avoid alcohol and tobacco for a full 24 hours before the procedure. During the procedure, the dentist will inject the gums with a local anaesthetic, and it may have an adverse reaction to tobacco and alcohol.