Author: Aura Dental
Who is suitable for dental implants?
In St John’s Wood, dental implants have become an increasingly popular option for patients who have lost one or more teeth and need effective restoration of their smiles and oral health. Dental implants are suitable for most adults who have good general oral health. They are however not suitable for children.
If you have dental implant treatment, it is important to realise that bad habits, such as heavy drinking or smoking, can increase the number of problems associated with the healing of your dental implants. Some dentists will decline to place dental implants if smoking cannot be reduced or given even up altogether.
When you come to see us at Aura Dental to discuss your dental implants in St John’s Wood, we will need to be aware of any ongoing dental problems you have. The cause of these problems will need to be thoroughly examined before any treatment can occur. If you have a history of gum disease or diabetes, then you may have a higher likelihood of encountering problems with your dental implants. Reduced jawbone density can also make your dental implants in St John’s Wood more complicated, but it is still possible with the help of additional treatments.
Bone graft or sinus lift
If your jawbone density is low, you may require an additional procedure that is available here at Aura Dental. This can come in the form of a bone graft or a sinus lift. This helps rebuild the jawbone so it is strong enough to hold your dental implants.
How do dental implants work?
Dental implants hold your teeth in place to an extent only matched by natural teeth. The implant is a titanium screw that is directly placed into your jawbone. It fuses with your bone over a period of time – this process can take up to 6 months to complete. Then permanent new teeth will be attached to abutments on top of your implants. These can come in the form of a single crown, a bridge or even dentures.
The benefits
Once your dental implant treatment is complete you can enjoy a full range of foods again, smile with confidence and rest assured that your oral health is improved.
Braces: which system is right for you?
Dentistry has benefitted hugely from research and development in many areas over the past 2 or 3 decades, making it possible for all of us to have the smile we have always wanted. One area of dentistry that may have advanced more than any other is that of teeth straightening, where the focus is on creating aligned teeth and bite. Time was, if you wanted braces in St John’s Wood, you’d undergo 2 or 3 years of heavy duty metal brackets and wires that could cut into your cheeks and make your teeth ache, as well as restrict your diet and impair your speech. No wonder no one but adolescents was seen in them, what person with freedom of choice would put themselves through that.
However, these days, there are many kinds of braces on offer, each designed to tackle a different problem and to blend with different lifestyle needs. At Aura Dental in St John’s Wood, braces come in several forms to give you the freedom of choice, although we will recommend a system to best suit your needs.
Invisalign
This system uses clear aligners that look like transparent gum shields. The aligners are changed every 2 weeks. You can remove them to clean your teeth and eat, but you need to wear them for at least 22 hours a day for them to align your teeth on schedule. Their smooth plastic means no cut cheeks or mouth sores, and it is so thin that no one can see you are wearing them.
Inman Aligner
This aligner is a cross between invisible and metal braces. It relies on coil springs that power 2 metal aligner bows that gently oppose each other, guiding the teeth into their new positions. This system is often quicker than Invisalign, taking between 6 and 16 weeks. Also, only one appliance is required for the entire treatment, making it more affordable. The Inman Aligner is designed to move the front teeth only.
Six Month Smiles
This uses tooth-coloured brackets and wires to move the front 6 social teeth, the ones you see when you smile. Treatments are completed in as little as 6 months.
To find out more about braces in St John’s Wood, why not pop in for a consultation?
Dreading the dentist and desperate for dental implants?
Do you break out in a sweat at the prospect of lying back in the dentist’s chair, gazing up at the ceiling and seeing those purple-gloved hands plunging over your mouth? Does the whine of even a benign polisher make you feel anxious? Never fear, you are not alone. Being scared of the dentist, dentophobia, is not only real, it’s a phobia that affects between 7–13% of the population.
If dentophobia has stopped you coming to the dentist for years, you may now be in danger of losing, or have already lost, some teeth, and want to have them replaced with dental implants in St John’s Wood.
There are different triggers for dentophobia. Maybe it’s the sight of a needle, the fear of being told off by an authority figure, or the dreaded sight and sound of the dentist’s drill. Maybe it’s the thought of experiencing pain, the idea of not being able to feel your face, or the worry of the anaesthetic not working properly. Or perhaps it’s just the plain fear of finding yourself having to pay a large and unexpected bill.
Getting dental implants with us
Here in St John’s Wood, dental implants have been transforming lives, but having them fitted means you have to undergo oral surgery to place titanium posts with internal screws into the jawbone. It means the dentist’s chair and the drill. It also means being able to eat what you like for the rest of your life, once the artificial teeth have been permanently attached to these implants.
The idea of this may be too much for you, but the good news is that although in St John’s Wood, dental implants are normally fitted under local anaesthetic, at Aura Dental we have been specially trained to offer scared and anxious patients the right environment and care in which to be able to relax and enjoy a positive dental experience.
You can opt for sedation, either oral or intravenous, along with the local anaesthetic. You will then be able to fully relax during your treatment. If you go for intravenous sedation you may not even be able to remember most of it. Whichever you choose, we will take care of you and make sure that you too have a transformed life with dental implants.
First impressions count
If you are a fan of the many talent shows on TV, you will know how much first impressions count. Remember when Susan Boyle came onto the Britain’s Got Talent stage back in 2009? Everyone wrote her off before she’d even opened her mouth to reveal she had the voice of several angels. She went on to become a major star, and to have quite a visual makeover, but even so her looks have deprived her of being taken seriously by many.
Visual information, collected almost subconsciously, can permanently influence our opinion of another person, especially in situations such as dating and job interviews. If we don’t smile, people can easily assume that we are miserable or unfriendly, whereas the real reason may be because we are ashamed of our wonky teeth.
Of course, by the time we are adults, many of us are unwilling to have visible teeth straightening devices that will attract unwanted attention. This is why we offer clear braces in St John’s Wood at Aura Dental.
The clear braces revolution
Invisalign is an innovative kind of braces in St John’s Wood. Instead of the usual brackets, bands and wires, it uses clear plastic trays, rather like mouth guards, that push rather than pull your teeth into alignment.
This kind of braces in St John’s Wood has several advantages over wire and bracket braces.
Invisalign avoids the teenage look that is often associated with ‘train-track’ braces by the use of incredibly thin, clear plastic trays that fit snugly over the teeth, and are hard for other people to spot. Importantly for many adults who have public-facing jobs, they do not interfere with speech.
Another big plus is that Invisalign trays are removable. This means no food stuck in brackets and wires that can takes ages to brush away, and therefore much less chance of tooth decay. You can eat whatever you like but it is important to only drink water when the aligner is in because you could stain the plastic.
Also, if you really need to, you can remove the aligner for a few hours for important business or social events. You must wear the aligners for at least 20 hours a day if the treatment is to stay on schedule.
The miracle metal that can transform your life
Titanium is not just a multi-coloured metal used for making interesting jewellery. It is also used in dental implants. In St John’s Wood, at Aura Dental, these miniature miracles have been improving the lives of many patients who have lost teeth.
There are 4 reasons why titanium is the go-to metal for dental implants in St John’s Wood. Titanium is lightweight, very strong, and does not corrode after being inserted into the body.
But along with being light, durable and strong, titanium has another property that makes it the stand-out choice for use in implants – its capacity to actually mesh with bone tissue. Titanium’s ability to do this makes it a very popular choice for dental implants, which need to be housed in strong, healthy bone tissue so that they can withstand the multi-directional strong forces associated with biting and chewing. When someone loses a tooth, the bone that once held the root very quickly starts to lose its density. Titanium implants actually encourage the jawbone to produce new bone tissue and blood vessels, and so help keep it strong and healthy for all the remaining natural teeth.
All about your jaw
If the jawbone is not healthy or the gum has receded, teeth can come loose in their sockets. In St John’s Wood, dental implants made of titanium help the jawbone to maintain a healthy size. It may be necessary to have preparatory bone grafting treatment before implants are fitted, if the jawbone has lost density. This may add several months to the treatment process, as time has to be allowed for the grafts to take and generate new bone tissue.
The procedure
In St John’s Wood, dental implants are fitted in 2 stages following an in-depth consultation and examination to make sure the jawbone can take, or can be made to take the implants. If they are, our dentists create new sockets in the jawbone and insert the titanium implants. This surgery is usually done under local anaesthetic, but sedation is also available if you are an anxious patient. After several weeks or possibly months of healing time, during which the titanium implants bond with the bone, artificial teeth, custom-made to blend with your natural teeth, can be fitted.
Ask George…about Invisalign
George Angelidakis, our resident Invisalign Specialist answers your questions about Invisalign.
Over the past month we asked our 
Invisalign patients what questions they wanted to have answered before deciding to get Invisalign. Here are the top 5 queries they raised…
1.How is Invisalign different from braces?
Invisalign is a removable device called an aligner, similar to a mouth guard but less bulky. It appears near invisible when in your mouth and after a few days getting used to it, you’ll hardly notice it. You can remove the aligner when you eat, brush your teeth and in extreme cases such as a significant event. Apart from these occasions, the aligners must be worn as directed to make sure your treatment is not prolonged.
Fixed braces require brackets to be bonded to each individual tooth using wires and rubber bands to move your teeth. A bit more care and attention is required for fixed braces to avoid breakages to brackets or wires (usually done while eating!), which will prolong your treatment. Also, fixed braces promote food packing (getting caught in crevasses around the bracket) during every meal and this can compromise or affect your oral hygiene. Clear, aesthetic braces are available today that can significantly improve aesthetics during the treatment, however, they are still more noticeable and bulkier than an Invisalign aligner.
There are certain cases where one or the other is more appropriate. We will assess your personal circumstances and advice on the best options for you.
A very happy patient wanting to show off her new smile:
2. What are the pros and cons of Invisalign?
Pros:
- Nearly invisible
- Can be removed while eating, brushing teeth and in extreme cases for significant events
- Less likelihood of breakages and need for emergency visits
- Ideal for those with busy schedules and frequent travel
- Before and after result can be previewed via digital simulation
- Oral Hygiene is kept ideal throughout the treatment as the aligners are removed during meals and you are able to floss and keep the interdental spaces clean.
- Very safe, as the aligners apply mild pressure on the teeth to be moved.
Cons:
- Not suitable for all cases. Sometimes a fixed braces may be required
- Requires self discipline to ensure aligners are worn at all times
- Cost can be slightly higher than fixed braces depending on the complexity of the treatment
3. How does it work?
You will start by having a comprehensive check up with x-rays to ensure you are suitable for the treatment. If suitable, Invisalign will digitally model your teeth and using 3-D technology, simulate the movement of your teeth over a period of time. The appropriate number of Invisalign aligners will be determined and your dentist will advise you when each one needs to worn and for how long.
Each aligner will adjust your teeth to prepare for the next aligner. Every time you change your aligner, it will feel tighter at first, but you will subside after a few days as your teeth adjustment further.
Is it George or the patient who has just finished Invisalign treatment?:
4. How long does it take and how do I make sure my teeth don’t move when I’m finished?
Very generally speaking, the treatment will usually last between 3 and 9 months. Discipline in wearing the aligners will determine the length of your Invisalign treatment. If you wear them 22-23 hours a day except for eating, drinking and brushing your teeth, your treatment should take the amount of time determined in your 3D simulation.
The state of your hygiene can also affect the length of your treatment. It is very important that you undergo regular hygiene cleans throughout your Invisalign treatment to avoid delays.
Good ongoing oral hygiene is also important after your treatment to prevent your teeth from moving again. Build up of plaque on your teeth can cause small movements, particularly in the first few months after your treatment has finished. You will need either a fixed retainer (a small wire stuck to the back of your teeth) and/or a removable retainer (much like the Invisalign aligner and worn at night usually) to prevent your teeth trying to move back to their original positions.
5. How much will it cost?
The final cost of your treatment depends on the complexity of your case. The simpler the case the lower the cost is likely to be. You should also take into account the need for regular hygiene cleans throughout your treatment.
At Aura Dental, Invisalign prices start from £1599 for simple cases. However adult Invisalign treatment will often fall between £2,500 and £5,000. The cost of your initial consultation (£75 plus x-rays) will be incorporated into this if you choose to proceed with the treatment. Hygiene cleans can be added on as directed (regular clean is £70; deep clean is £95).
We do appreciate that that these are not small amounts of money, but they are an investment in your smile, which you will be with you forever. There will be a low cost financing options that can help you spread the cost of your treatment over time.
If you are interested in Invisalign, come and see us at Aura Dental in St Johns Wood. Our Treatment Coordinator, Nadia can also answer your questions about treatment and financing options. Hope to see you soon!
W: www.auradentallondon.com | E: [email protected] | T: 020 7722 0040
A smile to show off?
Do you feel comfortable smiling? Or do you avoid photographs and worry about interacting with others? Even if you care for your teeth well and have good dental health, you may wish that your appearance was more attractive. Chipped, broken, missing, misaligned or discoloured teeth can be uncomfortable and contribute to you feeling unhappy with how you look. This can really affect your quality of life, as it constantly undermines the enjoyment you feel and how you express yourself. At Aura Dental in St John’s Wood, cosmetic dentistry allows you to look and feel great.
Solutions for brighter smiles
There is no need to suffer with discomfort or feelings of embarrassment or dissatisfaction any more. For many of our patients in St John’s Wood, cosmetic dentistry has proved life changing. This branch of dental care is the art of making your smile more attractive using a variety of techniques to repair damage, realign your teeth or improve their appearance. Some procedures can also improve your oral health as they make your teeth easier to clean, stronger or more stable. We are proud to offer a friendly, empathetic and highly skilled service so that you get the results you want in a way which suits you.
Cosmetic dentistry in St John’s Wood
Our team have helped many patients achieve the smile of their dreams with cosmetic dentistry in St John’s Wood. We offer a full range of options from teeth whitening and dental veneers to white fillings and braces. We can also discuss treatments such as dental implants, bridges, dentures or crowns with you. Modern techniques mean that treatment is faster, more comfortable and less obtrusive than ever before. For example, choosing clear aligners instead of traditional metal braces allows you to have straighter teeth without having to wear ugly train tracks for months. We can enhance the appearance, condition, colour and placement of your teeth for a beaming smile.
Give yourself the gift of a beautiful smile and see how cosmetic dentistry in St John’s Wood can help you. Get in touch with our experienced team today to discuss how changing your smile can change your life.
New Talent and Expertise At Aura Dental
George enjoys all aspects of dentistry with a special interest in Aesthetic Restorative Dentistry, Dental Implants, Cosmetic Clear Orthodontics and Facial Aesthetics, including Botox Anti-Wrinkle Injections and dermal fillers, to help his patients achieve a more youthful appearance and boost their self confidence.
He is a certified Invisalign, Inman Aligner and Cfast Clear Braces provider.
Using his combined knowledge and a comprehensive approach, he has gained an excellent reputation in “Designing Enhanced Smiles” for those inspired to change their look or cosmetic dental appearance.
Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, British Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, European Academy of Osseointegration and Faculty of General Dental Practice(UK).
Apart from Dentistry George enjoys traveling, watching movies and playing sports.
Are crooked teeth getting you down?
If you have crowded, widely spaced or misaligned teeth, you may find yourself hiding your smile, feeling self-conscious in social situations or shying away from the camera. If your teeth are very crooked, then you may even be experiencing problems with eating or speaking. At Aura Dental in North West London, braces have allowed many people benefit from having straighter teeth. Not only does this contribute to an enhanced appearance, it also improves the health of your mouth as correctly positioned teeth have fewer gaps for plaque to accumulate in and are easier to clean.
Braces are not for me
Many adults who missed out on corrective treatment as a child associate braces with metal train tracks and dismiss the idea due to concerns that they will be uncomfortable, time-consuming, inconvenient or unsightly. Thanks to modern techniques, we can offer braces in North West London to fit in with every lifestyle. Procedures now are faster, more comfortable and less obtrusive than ever so everyone can experience the joy of having straighter teeth.
A new smile in six months?
It seems too good to be true but if you have mild to moderate problems, a system called Six Month Smiles could be for you. Tooth-coloured wires and clear brackets mean that the braces are very discreet and, because they focus on the front teeth, treatment can be very quick. Another option if you are looking for braces in North West London is Invisalign. This process uses a series of almost invisible clear aligners which carefully guide your teeth into the desired position. The aligners are individually made to fit your teeth and made of smooth plastic so are very comfortable. The Inman Aligner is also clear but contains special metal springs and bows which create gentle forces to move the teeth. Both the Invisalign and Inman aligners are removeable for eating and cleaning. If the alignment of your front teeth in the top and bottom jaws need correction, then CFast braces are a minimally invasive and fast option.
Give yourself the gift of a more attractive smile and find out how we can help you with braces in North West London.
Let’s improve your smile
We live in a truly amazing age, although sometimes it’s easy to forget. We take for granted so many of the technologies and techniques that transform our lives for the better, like cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic dentistry in St John’s Wood is better than it has ever been, allowing you to do things that you never would have thought possible. Here at Aura Dental, we provide a comprehensive range of modern cosmetic dental treatments.
Veneers
Would you like a brighter and whiter smile? Most people would because an improved smile comes with many advantages. You can feel more confident and more able to smile often, which can make you feel happier and laugh more freely.
Veneers are thin but strong ceramic shells that are fitted to the fronts of your teeth. They can be used to reshape your teeth, repair damage and more. Chipped, cracked, stained or misshapen teeth can all be effectively disguised with veneers.
Not only are they versatile, they are strong too. They are longer lasting for whiter teeth than teeth whitening, more durable than dental bonding when it comes to tackling gaps in your teeth and a faster way to achieve a smile full of straight teeth than braces.
With cosmetic dentistry in St Johns Wood, veneers provide a perfect accessory to every outfit: a winning smile. The benefits of a new smile are often underestimated. A smile is the first thing people notice about you and at Aura Dental we can make sure it’s the last thing they’ll ever forget. In just 2 visits to our friendly practice, you can transform your teeth.
Professional teeth whitening
This is our most requested cosmetic treatment for whitening teeth and also the most cost-effective. Teeth whitening is carried out by our professional dentists and includes popular procedures such as the Zoom Whitening System and Enlighten. Our dentist will apply a protective gel around your mouth, lips and gums. A whitening gel is then applied to your teeth. A special light is used to activate this. It causes the whitening gel to bleach the enamel of your teeth, leaving them whiter and brighter.
So call us today for the smile you’ve always wanted with cosmetic dentistry in St John’s Wood.