Category: Dentists

A baby’s first teeth appear anywhere from around six months of age to their first birthday. Some can be earlier and some can be later, the timeline varies. If your baby’s teeth are taking time to erupt then usually there is no need for concern. Often delayed tooth eruption is due to genetics and speaking to family members can put your mind at ease. Other possible causes include premature birth, low birth weight or poor nutrition. If your baby is affected by developmental or endocrine disorders then this can delay tooth eruption too. There are no serious risks related to baby teeth coming in late, but if they have not erupted by 18 months, it is strongly recommended that you book an appointment with our dentist St John’s Wood. Our dentist St John’s Wood will inspect your child’s mouth and may decide to take dental X-rays to confirm that the teeth are present. Where necessary, you may be referred to other specialists for further examination.

Good dental hygiene

Once the teeth begin to erupt, it is important that you implement a good dental hygiene routine from the outset. Baby teeth need to be brushed twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. It is important that this is done by the parent or the carer using a tiny amount of toothpaste. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay and makes your baby’s teeth stronger. Another way to look after your baby’s dental health is by promoting a healthy diet from a young age. The diet needs to be high in calcium to promote healthy teeth and strong bones.

What to avoid for healthy teeth

Milk, cheese, and yoghurt are good sources of calcium. You need to limit sugar intake in food and drink and you should avoid milky drinks at night as they can encourage the formation of tooth decay. You should try to swap from using a bottle to a beaker as soon as possible as this can also have a detrimental impact on your child’s teeth and can affect the alignment of their teeth as an adult.

This is the same for a baby’s dummy. By avoiding a dummy, you will promote better dental health. Thumbsucking is another factor that can cause dental complications in children and in the future when they are adults. It should be discouraged and your child will thank you when they are older.

Brushing should be carried out by an adult up until the age of six or seven, after which the children should be able to brush their teeth by themselves. Even then it should be supervised. Children need to be brushing their teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. They should not rinse their mouth after they have brushed, rather they should spit out the remaining toothpaste and let the fluoride sit on their teeth, preventing cavities and tooth decay. Book an appointment with our dentist St John’s Wood at Aura Dental for you and your family today and make sure that you are taking good care of your children’s teeth, as not only is it important for their overall health and wellbeing now, it is important for the rest of their lives.

At Aura Dental, we have been finalists for numerous awards in major competitions, such as the Private Dentistry Awards and The Dentistry Awards. Of course, being nominated for awards is a reflection not just of the skills and expertise that our professional team has but also of the results we achieve using the latest techniques and treatments. If you have lost one or more of your teeth, you only need to come and see our dentist St John’s Wood for a beautiful new smile. Losing teeth can be a major blow to your self-confidence, and we don’t want you to suffer when you don’t have to. Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat and speak. However, if you’re missing teeth, dental implants may be the perfect solution for you.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that can be placed in your jawbone and act like artificial roots for your replacement teeth. They provide a stable foundation for replacing missing teeth with crowns, bridges, or dentures, and the replacement option you have will depend on how many teeth you need to replace. Dental implants are made of titanium, which is a strong and durable material compatible with the human body.

What are the causes of missing teeth?

There are many reasons why people lose teeth, and one of the most well-known is tooth decay. Tooth decay is the most common cause of tooth loss. It occurs when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on your teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can eventually eat through the enamel and dentin layers of your teeth, exposing the soft inner layer called the pulp. If the pulp becomes infected, the tooth may need to be extracted. At Aura Dental, we believe that prevention is always better than the cure, and we will always help you and your family to prevent tooth loss, but if it is already at that stage, then dental implants can help.

Another cause of tooth loss is gum disease, which is also known as periodontitis. Gum disease is a serious infection that can damage the gums and bones that support your teeth. If gum disease is not treated, it can eventually lead to tooth loss. Sometimes, it is impossible to avoid tooth loss if you have an accident. For example, you might lose a tooth if you are in a car accident, have a fall, or get injured playing sports. While this is unavoidable, our dentist St John’s Wood may be able to offer dental implants and help you get a natural-looking and functioning smile back again to soften the blow! Finally, you may also find that injuries to the jawbone can also lead to tooth loss. For example, you might lose a tooth if you have surgery on your jawbone or if you are involved in a fight.

How long do dental implants take to fit?

The process of getting dental implants can take several weeks, as you need time to let your gums heal once the implants have been fitted. However, the actual treatment to place the implants typically only takes a few hours at our dental practice, and you will only need local anaesthesia for it. If you are nervous, we can also offer sedation as part of your treatment plan. Once the implants are fitted, you will need to wait several weeks for them to osseointegrate, which means they will fuse to your jawbone. Once the implants have osseointegrated, you can have crowns, bridges, or dentures placed on them, and there shouldn’t be any movement at all because of this.

Free consultation

So, if you would like to find out more about dental implants or any of our other treatments, you can contact us for a free virtual consultation with our dentist St John’s Wood, who will be happy to discuss your goals and advise you about suitable treatment options. If you do get dental implants, we can make your smile complete within just a couple of appointments, and you can smile again!

If you’re looking for a way to brighten up your smile, teeth whitening can make perfect sense. However, not all teeth whitening products are the same. At Aura Dental, we are a multi-award nominee practice for several major awards, and we like to provide teeth whitening treatment that meets our high standards of patient care. Our dentist St John’s Wood can provide you with Enlighten, which is the only teeth whitening treatment that guarantees a Vita Shade B1. It is a professional teeth whitening system that uses a low-concentration hydrogen peroxide gel to safely and effectively lighten and brighten your teeth. You will use a special gel in custom-made trays at home for a couple of weeks and then come in for a final booster session at the dental practice. The gel is activated by a special light, which helps to penetrate the enamel and reach the deeper layers of the teeth. The booster session takes about 40 minutes. Enlighten is a safe and effective teeth whitening system that can produce dramatic results. In most cases, patients can expect to see their teeth whiten up to 8 shades. The results of Enlighten are also long-lasting. With proper care, your teeth can stay white for several years, and we recommend using the trays for top-up treatment every few months. You can get more of the gel from us when you run out too.

In preparation for the teeth whitening treatment, we will also provide you with special toothpaste to ensure that your teeth aren’t sensitive to the treatment.

Causes of discoloured teeth

It can be a source of anxiety to have discoloured teeth, especially if you have a good oral hygiene routine and don’t know what else to do. However, there are many different factors that can cause teeth to discolour that don’t involve poor oral hygiene. First, certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and carbonated drinks, can stain teeth. Another well-known cause of stained teeth is smoking. Smoking can cause teeth to become yellow or brown, and it won’t matter how much you try and brush your teeth if you continue the habit. A less well-known cause of discoloured teeth can also be medicine. Some medications, such as tetracycline, can cause teeth to discolour. You may also have discoloured teeth if your teeth have been chipped or fractured. Also, as you age, your teeth may naturally become darker, which we know may not be the birthday present you were hoping for, but we can certainly help you party with Enlighten!

Benefits of teeth whitening

There are many benefits to teeth whitening, the most obvious being that you will have a brighter, sparkling smile. Teeth whitening can give you a brighter, more confident smile; what’s not to love about that? Teeth whitening can also help to remove surface stains and bacteria, which can improve your overall oral health and help to make you feel more confident.

How the trays are made and used

The trays used for Enlighten teeth whitening are made specifically for each patient. Our dentist St John’s Wood will take impressions of your teeth and send them to Enlighten’s laboratory, where they will be able to create custom-made trays that fit your teeth perfectly.

So, if you’re looking for a safe and effective way to whiten your teeth, come and talk to our dentist St John’s Wood about Enlighten teeth whitening. With Enlighten, you can have a whiter smile in just two weeks, so what are you waiting for?!

From our vantage point as your dentist St John’s Wood at Aura Dental, it’s apparent that oral health and systemic diseases are not distinct entities; they’re intricately interconnected. Particularly, the tie between diabetes and oral health issues is a relationship that has captured our attention. This association is significant to our practice, as we routinely manage patients who juggle both their diabetic condition and oral health. This relationship underpins the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach in our dental practice and as your dentist St John’s Wood.

The impact of diabetes on oral health

Diabetes, a metabolic disorder that impacts blood sugar levels, doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It has far-reaching effects on various body systems, including oral health. To put it simply, the presence of persistently high blood sugar levels in a diabetic patient can precipitate a host of oral health issues. The most common ones include gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis, dry mouth, burning mouth syndrome, and thrush. Additionally, slow healing after dental procedures, which can be a significant concern for patients, is often a consequence of uncontrolled diabetes.

Interestingly, it’s not just a one-way street; poor oral health can adversely affect diabetes control. Severe gum disease may increase blood sugar levels, leading to a vicious cycle of worsening oral health and uncontrolled diabetes. Understanding this reciprocal relationship guides our practice to address the issue holistically.

Our role as dentists in managing oral health in diabetic patients

As dental professionals, we play a vital role in managing oral health in individuals with diabetes. The first step is awareness. We ensure that our patients understand the connection between diabetes and oral health and the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular dental visits, timely treatment of dental issues, and good dental hygiene are key components of managing oral health in individuals with diabetes.

Furthermore, we understand the value of coordinating care with other healthcare professionals. We collaborate with endocrinologists and primary care physicians, sharing important information regarding patients’ oral health status, which can significantly influence diabetes management.

Promoting proactive oral health practices for diabetic patients

Proactive oral health practices are an integral part of our approach to managing oral health in diabetic patients. Our team emphasises the importance of regular dental check-ups, not only to catch and treat oral issues early, but also to provide professional teeth cleaning that goes beyond what a toothbrush and floss can do. We also suggest specific oral health products tailored for individuals with diabetes to help control oral symptoms and promote overall oral health.

Equally important is dietary guidance. We help our patients understand how their food choices can impact both their diabetes and oral health. Sugary and starchy foods can cause spikes in blood sugar and also contribute to tooth decay. Thus, we guide our patients towards a diet that is beneficial for both their systemic and oral health.

In conclusion, the connection between diabetes and oral health is complex and multi-faceted, but it’s not insurmountable. As your dentist St John’s Wood, we remain committed to our role in helping patients navigate this relationship, manage their oral health, and, consequently, their diabetes better.

A visit to our dental practice, Aura Dental, is more than just a simple check-up; it’s a journey towards optimal oral health. We firmly believe in the power of preventive dentistry, a holistic approach that focuses on preventing oral diseases before they even start. This philosophy goes beyond merely treating symptoms and seeks to eradicate the root causes of dental issues, ensuring a healthier and brighter smile for patients visiting us as their dentist in St John’s Wood.

Preventive dentistry is not just about cleanings and fillings; it encompasses a wide range of services designed to promote and maintain good oral health. We offer comprehensive care to our patients, including regular dental check-ups, teeth cleaning, fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and patient education. Our aim is to empower you with the tools and knowledge to take control of your dental health.

Why we champion preventive care

As dentists, we understand the consequences of neglected dental health and how it can affect one’s overall wellbeing. That’s why we are passionate advocates for preventive dentistry. It’s the key to a life free from oral diseases, expensive restorative treatments, and most importantly, the discomfort often associated with dental problems.

Preventive care is not just about catching dental issues early, but also mitigating potential future issues. With regular check-ups from our dentist in St John’s Wood and hygiene appointments, we can detect early signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer, among other conditions. We can also monitor your oral health for any changes, helping us anticipate and preempt any possible issues.

Education: an integral part of our practice

We believe that knowledge is power. Therefore, educating our patients about oral health is an integral part of our practice. We take the time to explain the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, a balanced diet, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

At our practice, we also guide you on the appropriate methods of brushing and flossing, and the right products suitable for your specific dental needs. We take pride in seeing our patients walk out of our clinic with a better understanding of their oral health, armed with practical tips and advice for maintaining it.

Our commitment to your oral health

Our commitment to preventive dentistry is steadfast. We strive to provide exceptional dental care tailored to each individual’s unique needs and circumstances. Our mission is to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health for a lifetime. To do so, we foster a partnership with our patients, involving them in the decision-making process and offering personalised treatment plans.

We hold ourselves as your dentist in St John’s Wood to the highest standards of professionalism and continually seek to improve our skills and knowledge. Rest assured, we use the latest dental technologies and techniques to provide a comfortable, safe, and efficient treatment experience.

In conclusion, as your partners in oral health, we cannot emphasise enough the importance of preventive dentistry. It’s a long-term investment in your wellbeing and quality of life. By embracing preventive care, we can work together to prevent oral diseases and ensure a brighter, healthier smile.

Good dental hygiene starts with cleaning your teeth at home.

As most people know, brushing your teeth twice a day is important to prevent plaque build-up, tooth decay, and gum disease.

However, what most people are getting wrong is the technique!

Yes, while it may seem odd, even people who are dedicated to cleaning their teeth may be doing it wrong, and therefore, they may be causing issues with their dental hygiene.

Luckily, it is never too late to learn how to brush your teeth properly and our dentist, St. John’s Wood, can help. Whatever your age, we will be more than happy to help you improve your oral hygiene regime to ensure that your teeth and gums stay in good condition.

So, let’s go back to basics! Here, our dentist St. John’s Wood will go through some tips with you on how to begin using the right brushing technique.

Use the right toothbrush

Our dentist St. John’s Wood recommends that our patients use a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits comfortably in your mouth. A toothbrush with a small head can help you reach all areas of your mouth more easily. Electric toothbrushes can be effective as well, as they provide a more thorough cleaning and help you brush for the recommended 2 minutes.

Brush at the right angle

When brushing your teeth, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth; if you hold it straight against your teeth, it will not be able to clean the entire tooth. The 45-degree angle allows you to clean along the gum line, where bacteria and plaque can accumulate. Use short, gentle strokes to brush back and forth, focusing on one tooth at a time.

If your gums start to bleed as you do this, you may be brushing too hard, so dial it back!

Brush for 2 minutes

For optimum success, brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes twice a day. Divide your mouth into quadrants and spend 30 seconds on each quadrant. Don’t rush through your brushing routine, as this can leave some areas of your mouth uncleaned.

To help you along, there are some electric toothbrushes that have built-in timers, so you don’t have to constantly check the time on your watch when brushing.

Don’t forget to brush your tongue

Bacteria can and does accumulate on your tongue, leading to bad breath and other dental problems such as thinning enamel. Aim to brush your tongue gently with your toothbrush, or use a tongue scraper to remove any build-up. If you have a sensitive gag reflex, take care here!

Don’t brush too hard

Dental health is not based on how hard you brush!

Brushing too hard will inevitably damage your tooth enamel and irritate your gums, potentially causing them to recede. Use gentle pressure when brushing your teeth, and let the bristles do the work. If you notice that your toothbrush bristles are looking worn, frayed or flattened, replace it as worn-out bristles won’t clean your teeth properly.

If your teeth and gums often bleed after brushing, you may need to see our team for a brush up on how to best clean your teeth!

Imagine starting your Saturday morning with a leisurely cup of coffee when an unexpected, intense tooth pain strikes. Yikes! You know you need to see a dental team urgently, but most clinics are closed for the weekend. Fortunately, our local dental clinic has you covered with our emergency and Saturday appointments, ensuring that you can maintain a healthy, pain-free smile at all times.

When you come to Aura Dental, we are proud to be able to offer emergency dental care, and our emergency dentist, St John’s Wood, will always be able to slot you in for an appointment, reducing discomfort and helping you to get back on track. Great!

Want to learn more about our emergency care? In this article, we’ll delve into the advantages of our flexible appointment options and why you should choose our emergency dentist St John’s Wood, for your dental needs.

Getting Emergency Appointments

Dental emergencies can occur anytime, and having a reliable dentist St Johns Wood to turn to is essential. Recognizing that accidents and toothaches don’t always adhere to a standard 9-to-5 schedule, our clinic proudly offers emergency appointments for those unforeseen dental crises. Our experienced team is prepared to deliver prompt care and expert guidance to alleviate your pain and address the issue at hand.

Saturday Appointments for Your Convenience

In our fast-paced world, scheduling dental appointments during the week can prove challenging. Balancing work, school, and family commitments often results in routine dental care being neglected. However, delaying emergency dental treatment can cause more severe problems in the future.

To resolve this issue, we offer Saturday appointments! We understand and respect the value of your time and want to ensure you have access to high-quality dental care when it fits your schedule best. So, if you feel you have an emergency dental situation brewing over the weekend, don’t wait!

Exceptional Care from Our Skilled Dental Professionals

At our clinic, we take pride in delivering top-notch dental care with a compassionate touch. Our highly-trained team of dental professionals is committed to making your visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible. We employ state-of-the-art technology and techniques to guarantee the best treatment possible, regardless of your dental needs.

We also cater to patients who may be more apprehensive, so if you are a nervous patient, just tell us.

Don’t Wait – Book Your Appointment Today!

Our clinic not only offers flexible appointment options but also aims to create a welcoming and relaxing environment for all our patients. We understand that dental visits can be anxiety-inducing for some, which is why our compassionate team strives to put you at ease from the moment you step through our doors.

To further enhance your experience, we also prioritize clear communication and patient education, ensuring you fully understand your treatment options and any procedures that may be necessary. We believe that informed patients can make better decisions regarding their oral health, leading to improved long-term outcomes.

Ultimately, our goal is to build lasting relationships with our patients, providing exceptional dental care tailored to their unique needs and preferences. With our emergency and Saturday appointments, along with our comprehensive range of services, our clinic is well-equipped to address your dental concerns and help you achieve a healthy, radiant smile. So, call us today!

As a dental clinic, we have seen firsthand how dental anxiety can affect even the bravest of patients. It’s no secret that many people are apprehensive about dental visits, but it’s essential to recognise the signs of dental anxiety and understand that you’re not alone in your fear.

Dental anxiety can manifest in several ways, including increased heart rate, sweating, nausea, or even panic attacks. The good news is that there are strategies and techniques to help alleviate these symptoms and make your dental visit a more comfortable experience.

When you come to Aura Dental, our dentist St John’s Wood will always work to make you as comfortable as possible. We can offer an array of treatments to help you feel more at ease, and with our friendly and compassionate staff, we are certain you will feel safe and supported.

But what are some of the tips that our dentist St John’s Wood uses to help our anxious patients to relax?

Communication is key

Our dentist St John’s Wood believes that when it comes to dental anxiety, communication is key. Before your appointment, take the time to discuss your concerns and fears with our team. We need to know what triggers your anxiety so we can create a personalised plan to help you feel more at ease.

Feel free to ask questions about the procedures or any unfamiliar equipment you may see during your visit. Knowledge is power, and understanding what to expect can alleviate some of the uncertainty that fuels dental anxiety.

Relaxation techniques and distractions

While in the dental chair, consider using distractions to take your mind off the procedures. Listening to music or an audiobook through headphones can provide a welcome escape from the dental environment. Alternatively, some patients find comfort in watching TV or a movie during their appointment. Don’t hesitate to let us know whether these options would be helpful for you.

Sedation dentistry options

Patients with severe dental anxiety or those undergoing more extensive procedures may find sedation dentistry to be an appropriate option. Sedation dentistry allows patients to feel relaxed and comfortable throughout their appointment, often resulting in little or no memory of the procedure.

There are varying levels of sedation available, ranging from minimal sedation with nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) to moderate sedation with oral or intravenous medications. In some cases, general anaesthesia may be necessary. We will work to determine the most appropriate sedation option based on your needs and the nature of your dental treatment.

Establishing a support system

It’s crucial to have a support system in place to help you cope with dental anxiety. Friends or family members who have experienced similar fears can offer valuable advice and reassurance. Share your concerns with them, and don’t be afraid to ask for their support during your dental appointments.

Additionally, consider joining a support group for individuals with dental anxiety. These groups provide a safe space for people to share their experiences, learn from one another, and offer encouragement.

A commitment to compassionate care

As before, we want to assure you that we are committed to providing compassionate care for all our patients, including those with dental anxiety. By implementing the strategies mentioned above and working together, we can help you overcome your fears and maintain a healthy smile.

Remember that the first step to conquering dental anxiety is reaching out for help. Don’t let fear keep you from achieving optimal oral health. Schedule an appointment with us today, and let’s work together to create a positive dental experience for you.

Gum disease is a common problem affecting millions of people worldwide, with symptoms ranging from mild inflammation to more severe cases of tooth loss. With the help of our experienced dentist, however, gum disease can be prevented and managed. In this article, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available for gum disease, with a focus on how our dentist in St John’s Wood can help.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by plaque and bacteria building up on the teeth and gums. If left untreated, this can lead to inflammation and infection, which can cause damage to the gums, teeth, and bones that support the teeth. Gum disease can be divided into two types, they are periodontitis and gingivitis.

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and can be easily treated with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. Symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is a more severe form of gum disease.

Periodontitis is characterised by deeper pockets between the teeth and gums, which can lead to bone loss and tooth loss. Symptoms of periodontitis include bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and changes in the bite.

How a reliable dental practice can help

If you suspect that you have gum disease, it’s essential to see our dentist in St John’s Wood as soon as possible. A dentist can diagnose and treat gum disease using a variety of techniques, including:

• Professional cleaning: A dentist can perform a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums.

• Scaling and root planing: This procedure involves cleaning the root surfaces of the teeth to remove bacteria and tartar.

• Antibiotics: A dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help control the infection.

• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue and bone.

A dentist can also provide advice on how to prevent gum disease from developing in the first place. This includes practising good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly, as well as regular dental check-ups and cleanings.

Do not fear gum disease

In conclusion, gum disease is a serious condition that requires prompt attention from a qualified dentist. With the help of a trustworthy dental practice like ours at Aura Dental, gum disease can be prevented and managed, ensuring good dental health and a confident smile. By following good oral hygiene practices and seeking regular dental care, you can protect your teeth and gums from the damaging effects of gum disease. If you want to maintain good oral health, prevent dental problems, and receive personalised dental care, book an appointment with our dentist in St John’s Wood today! Don’t wait until you have a dental emergency or a painful toothache to seek treatment. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and ensure that any dental problems are detected and treated early. So, if you’re looking for a reliable and experienced dental practice look no further than Aura Dental, give us a call to book your consultation.