Cosmetic dentistry: the perfect way to boost your smile

More and more people are opting to boost their smile, and with it their self-confidence, through cosmetic dentistry. At Aura Dental in North London we offer a wide range of aesthetic dental treatments to suit all needs and budgets.

What can cosmetic dentistry do for me?

cosmetic dentistryEvery patient’s smile needs will be different. We all want an aesthetically-pleasing smile that lets our personality shine through. At our North London dental practice, our experienced team of cosmetic dentists will deliver a bespoke treatment plan to address whatever issues you may have with your smile.

Some patients come to Aura Dental with a specific idea of the treatment they want – for example, if your teeth have become stained through drinking red wine, coffee or cola or through habits such as smoking, you may want teeth whitening treatment.

Others are interested in cosmetic dentistry but are unsure exactly what treatment they require. Your dentist will work with you to find out your wants and needs and, after examining your teeth, will devise a bespoke treatment plan comprising one or more treatments.

Cosmetic dentistry in North London

Here are some of the options we offer:

Veneers

Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain placed over the front surface of your teeth. They are held in place by strong dental adhesive and cover permanent stains, small chips and cracks and minor alignment issues.

Invisible orthodontics

Invisible orthodontics uses clear aligners or tooth-coloured braces to straighten your teeth. Your dentist will recommend the best option for you during your initial consultation.

Dental implants

Dental implants are replacement tooth roots. They provide a permanent, secure base for replacement teeth such as dentures, crowns or bridges.

If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry, why not book a consultation with one of the experienced dentists at our North London practice?

What Exactly is the Six-Month Smile That Dentists Offer?

The rise of modern technologies is a double-edged sword. While it provides people easier and more convenient life, this event significantly changed the character of the society – we want things promptly nowadays. With the Internet, you can access a lot of information in just a few seconds.

six-month smileHowever, this desire of people to see results immediately is not entirely bad. In fact, quick turnarounds do benefit the dental industry. Braces, in particular, take no less than two years to effectively straighten your teeth. If you can have a better smile instantaneously, would you not grab the opportunity?

In recent years, the industry witnessed the birth of new technologies, those that claims to treat specific oral issues faster. One of these is the Six-Month Smile system. Practices offer this orthodontic treatment to patients who want a faster and less costly solution for their crooked or misaligned teeth.

How It Differs from Braces

Does this treatment guarantee anything? Is it for everyone? According to practitioners, the Six-Month Smile is an alternative to braces or invisible aligners; however, that does not necessarily mean that it is a better treatment than the two. Like every dental procedure, teeth straightening requires thorough planning and accuracy on the part of the dentist; no two patients have the exact same treatment needs.

What its Key Components are

In essential, Six-Month Smile is a one-size-fits-all teeth straightening kit. It constitutes regular wires and brackets that install on your front teeth and uses a fixed orthodontic force to set the teeth right.

How to Ensure its Efficiency

As ordinary as it seems compared to standard orthodontic treatments, practitioners have to complete a short course certification program before they can provide the Six-Month Smile. The efficiency of this orthodontic treatment depends on the knowledge and skill of the dentist.

Here at Aura Dental, we offer Six-Month Smile using advanced dental technology and techniques, enabling us to make sure we keep you smiling inside and out. Our practitioners specialise in the latest aesthetic dental treatments in rejuvenating your smile. The cost of our Six-Month Smile treatment starts at £2,899.00.

Contact us today or visit the office to know more about our services.

The Power of Perfect Teeth: Happy, Healthy, Wealthy Life

A smile is a curve that sets everything straight—and behind every bright smile is a set of perfectly healthy teeth.

healthy teethThe condition of the teeth affects your over-all appearance. Various studies have proven that those simple pearly whites can either boost or lower self-esteem significantly. At the same time, they influence the perception of people around you.

Just by looking at the teeth, people can form opinions about how health-conscious or attractive you are. Sometimes, this even extends to how successful you can be in your career.

With the look of the teeth affecting perception of the self and others, people seek ‘perfect teeth’ all the more.

Perfect Teeth = A Complete Set

A study conducted by University of Manchester’s School of Dentistry asserts that a full set of white teeth improves quality of life, as it increases self-esteem.

The researchers explored the emotional effects of dental implants among patients who had partial teeth loss and edentulism. They asked participants to complete an Oral Health Impact Profile, which assesses the individual’s perception about their oral health quality of life.

Before the treatment, the mean average was at 241 out of 343, signalling poor QOL. After the treatment, however, OHP increased to 342, indicating increase in confidence, self-esteem and general happiness.

Perfect Teeth = White and Straight

Aside from having a complete set, the idea of ‘perfect teeth’ is defined by its colour and alignment. People believe that white and straight teeth are attractive.

Researchers from the universities of Leeds and Central Lancashire in England confirmed the appeal of white teeth. In the study, the experts gathered photos of models and manipulated the colours of the teeth. They used three shades—yellowish brown, normal white, and bright white. They showed the pictures to 150 young men and women and confirmed what popular opinion dictates: white teeth are most attractive.

The reason yellow or unhealthy teeth is undesirable goes beyond mere appearance. Participants formed perceptions that yellow teeth are unhealthy, and therefore not a good potential partner.

As mentioned, straight teeth are also ideal. In a study conducted by Kelton Research, they found that people associate financial success with those who have straight teeth. They are also more likely to secure a job than those that have misaligned teeth, even if both candidates have similar skills and experience.

How the teeth look can affect perception—both of the self and others. Schedule a consultation today and find out how we can help you achieve the perfect set of teeth. We have different solutions, from dental implants to teeth whitening and braces.

Smiling: A Scientifically Proven Method of Increasing Confidence

If you have been looking for ways to raise your confidence, you probably have taken the advice of numerous people. The problem with that is those methods, though effective, worked specifically for them. Now, it is not to say that for you to feel better about yourself, you need deep introspection. It is the opposite actually, because at times, you just need to smile more.

smilingSocial psychologist Amy Cuddy, speaking at a TED conference, enlightened her audience about how standing in a posture of confidence works. Even when you are literally faking it, open statures, such as smiling and generally occupying more space, gives us more self-belief.

It’s All in the Head

The ‘power poses’ are all physical, but its effects are primarily neurological. Your testosterone levels spike and your cortisol, the stress hormone, is low. It is the best recipe if you want to feel better or have a better face to show everyone. Many leaders have the same hormonal situation, and they are never short of confidence and are good stress managers.

The ‘Dental’ Problem

Maybe, the root of your low confidence is the fact that your smile, a determinant of a person’s happiness, is not up to scratch. You are not the only one to have this, and you certainly would not be the last. Yet, the worst thing you can do is avoid the problem. It is such a small thing to be affecting you so much, so we here at Aura Dental suggest you have it sorted.

Whether it is teeth whitening, fast-acting dentistry or a smile makeover, know that we are here. Visit us at St. John’s Wood in London today.

For more information, go to our website: www.auradentallondon.co.uk.

Invisalign May Help Prevent Periodontitis, Diabetes and Heart Disease

Research shows that malocclusions have significant links to serious conditions, such as periodontal disease, diabetes and heart disease. To establish this point further, studies even suggest that the chance of an adult with malocclusion having periodontal disease is up by 50 percent.

The question is this: how does malocclusion lead to periodontal disease?

periodontitisCrowded or crooked teeth can become a serious problem due to inefficient cleaning. The areas that cannot be reached by brushing can turn into hiding areas that promote plaque build-up and gum infection. This may lead to periodontal disease, which is strongly linked to a vast number of serious diseases such as kidney and heart conditions.

The Way to the Heart and to the Kidneys

Diabetes and periodontitis have a two-way relationship, according to collaborative research conducted by specialists from related European institutions over the years. The study shows that inflamed gums can result in poor glycaemic or blood sugar control, with diabetes then increasing the risk of developing periodontitis.

The same study also suggests that cardiorenal syndrome, or disorders that involve the heart and kidneys, is three times more likely in diabetic patients with severe periodontitis. Although there is no concrete evidence that pins periodontitis as the major culprit in the development of heart problems, related studies are looking into gum infection as a trigger in atherosclerosis or coronary heart disease.

Orthodontics and Periodontitis

Orthodontic treatment is an indirect method of preventing these interconnected diseases. In fact, the studies suggest that diabetics should include orthodontics as part of their treatment. Fortunately, orthodontic solutions, such as Invisalign, help make the prevention more effective.

Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment created to fix malocclusion, thereby resulting in straighter teeth. Beyond just fixing your smile, straighter teeth allow for more thorough cleaning and reduces the chances of developing oral bacteria. By gently moving the teeth with custom fit aligners, you can have straighter teeth and stand a better chance against diabetes and heart disease.

Learn more about the benefits of Invisalign and other orthodontic treatments we provide by scheduling a consultation with us today. Contact our specialists; we look forward to working with you.

Fit Body + Fit Teeth = Fitter You

Your oral health is more vital than you realise. The state of your pearly whites offers clues about your physical well-being. When you understand the strong link between your oral and physical health, you can take preventive measures to protect yourself.

The Connection Between Mouth and Body

oral healthThe mouth serves as the gateway of your body; therefore, a better understanding of this organ offers rich insight into your body.

Similar to other parts of your body, your mouth is a place where bacteria may grow. Most of them are beneficial, if not harmless. Your body’s natural defence mechanism combined with good oral practices control these bacteria. But without proper oral hygiene, bacteria may result in oral infections and other diseases.

The medications you take also affect saliva flow. Regular intake of antihistamines or painkillers reduces saliva in your mouth. Saliva serves as a neutraliser of bacteria-produced acid in your mouth, protecting you from overgrowth or infection. With less saliva, you might be susceptible to diseases.

Oral Health and Physical Diseases

When you overlook your oral health, you are also taking your physical health for granted. The status of your teeth and gums can contribute to a number of diseases. Some conditions linked with oral health include the following:

  • Cardiovascular diseases – some researchers believe that oral bacteria cause clogged arteries, heart diseases and stroke.
  • Diabetes – this condition weakens the body’s defence against infection, which heightens the risk of gum diseases.
  • Osteoporosis – the weakening of your bone structure might have a connection with periodontal bone and tooth loss.
  • HIV/AIDS – Though the disease is not caused by oral problems, people with HIV often suffer from issues such as mucosal lesions.

Prevention is Better than Cure

The first step towards a healthier body and set of teeth depends on your oral hygiene practices. Simply brushing your teeth and caring for your gums goes a long way for your health. Proper care also improves your overall health and reduces the risks for problems.

The bottom line is: your mouth and body are not separate entities—they are connected and affect each other. When you take good care of your oral health, you love your body more.

Aura Dental is your partner in maintaining fit teeth for a fitter you. Get in touch with us now to learn more about how we can help.

Do You Need Internal Tooth Bleaching?

Pearly white teeth are a confidence booster; you are more willing to smile and appear friendlier with a good set. Poor diet and improper dental care can lead to discolouration and may be a sign of a bigger problem, such as tooth decay.

tooth bleachingThe decay and infection of a tooth will lead to its slowly changing colour as bacteria eat it from within. Your smile will transform from pearly white to a tinge of yellow, then completely yellow. The drastic change will affect the appearance of your smile; you might even have a tooth that is a different colour from the rest.

You have a solution to yellowing or discolouring teeth – internal tooth bleaching.

Teeth Whitening: Internal Tooth Bleaching

Teeth whitening is the generic term for aesthetically changing the appearance of your smile by removing stains. Many over-the-counter products promise to whiten teeth, but for users with a severe case of tooth decay, applying these is no longer an option.

Regular whitening may no longer work if the tooth is too discoloured or yellowed. An option to consider is internal tooth bleaching; this method whitens a tooth from the inside out.

The first step of the operation is a root canal to remove infected pulp. After removal, the dentist applies sodium perborate paste inside your tooth. This substance reacts to stains and dissolves them from within; making your tooth whiter. After the root canal, the dentist reseals it to prevent damage.

Improve Your Smile with Aura Dental

We at Aura Dental provide you with first-rate internal bleaching for whiter teeth and other treatments to improve your smile.

We understand the anxiousness one would feel whenever they visit a dentist; we allay these feelings by using a holistic approach to treatments. Our experience and use of advanced dental technology and techniques reduce the stress and anxiety our patients feel before and during a treatment.

Contact us to learn more about what we offer.

No Sugarcoating: Diabetics at a Greater Risk for Gum Disease

Periodontal disease can happen to anyone, but diabetics are at greater risk of the same. Although most people are unaware that gum problems are a complication of diabetes, such cases are common. In fact, statistics show that 1 in 3 diabetic patients would likely suffer from gum disease at some point over the course of their struggle with diabetes.

Diabetes and Gum Disease: The Missing Link

periodontal diseaseThere are many ways diabetes increases the risk for gum disease. The primary contributing factor, however, is poor blood sugar control. Diabetics have increased amounts of glycated proteins or lipids in the body, which are the very elements that compromise periodontal health. Although the exact link is still unknown to science, health practitioners have many theories.

The first one is that glycated substances severely affect the body’s defence against foreign elements, like bacteria. As diabetes weakens the immune system, patient then face heightened risk for infections and eventually, periodontal disease. The second theory is that heightened levels of glycated substances increase inflammatory response in the location of infection, which in this case is the gums and surrounding tissues.

Another possible link between diabetes and gum disease is the thickening of blood vessels. Blood vessels are responsible for carrying oxygen and nutrients to different parts of the body and transporting waste products away from these tissues.

As diabetes causes blood vessels to thicken, proper flow of nutrients and removal of harmful toxins gets compromised. This again contributes to a weaker resistance against gum and bone tissue infection.

Prevention of Oral Problems

Diabetics with poorly controlled blood glucose levels are more susceptible to serious gum diseases and tooth loss. Prevention, however, is possible. The most important step is to control blood sugar levels and maintain good oral hygiene.

Brush your teeth after eating, but not immediately after, because brushing too soon may damage the enamel. Use a toothbrush that has soft bristles and avoid applying excessive force when cleaning teeth. Make sure to visit your dentist regularly as well; inform them about changes in your condition and about any medication you are taking. With this, experts will be able to monitor your oral health more effectively.

For more information about periodontal diseases, refer to our blog page or visit our clinic today. Our dental team will be more than happy to attend to your dental needs.

Botox vs. Fillers: Things to Consider Before Getting Either Treatment

Nobody likes to see wrinkles form on their faces. These lines are among the common signs of ageing that reduce the appeal of a person. Dynamic and static facial lines may even make people look much older than their real age. For that, many resort to getting treatments, either Botox or dermal fillers.

Botox

botox and dermal fillersBotulinum toxin effectively relaxes facial muscles and levels lines on a temporary basis. This natural and purified protein is safe and certified in the cosmetic industry. Patients would often experience no real downtime, but slight bruising and swelling may occur right after the treatment. There are no long-term side-effects of getting Botox, allowing patients to resume their daily activities right after.

This suits patients with severe frown lines between the eyebrows and crow’s feet lines around the eye area. People with damaged nerves or muscle complaints, however, should disclose their condition beforehand to avoid complications. The average price of Botox treatment starts at £195.

Fillers

Dermal fillers, on the other hand, give people a fresher look by adding a minimal volume of Hyaluronic Acid (HA). This substance supports the skin, preventing lines and wrinkles from developing. Practitioners say this treatment does not take long (30 to 45mins.), and patients may only feel subtle discomfort. The effects of dermal fillers show immediately after, treating wrinkles fast and without leaving any scar.

This is ideal for patients who need skin rejuvenation and wrinkle elimination. On top of that, this also suits those who want to add volume and structure to their faces. Dermal fillers pose no risks to anyone, and their effects can last around 18 to 24 months. The treatment’s average price starts at £245.

Quality Practice

Before getting either of the two, patients should make sure the practice is certified. Reliable offices use quality and safe products that provide aftercare treatments or recommendations.

The question of which between Botox and fillers is better has no general answer. Here at Aura Dental, we offer both non-surgical treatments, Botox and Dermal Fillers. These two provide different benefits for different situations, allowing us to assist more patients with facial ageing issues. Visit our Kingston or West Wimbledon clinic today and say good bye to those unsightly wrinkles or facial lines.

Oral Piercings: Do It Right or Do Not Do It at All

Oral piercings are something of an alternative when it comes to bodily adornment. You cannot deny its eccentric quality, which appeals to a certain niche. Whatever they call themselves now, whether it is punk rockers, metal heads or youth, they are likely to get their tongue pierced. Nonetheless, everyone can have it. It has no exclusivity, and it is relatively easy to find a clean establishment to have the procedure.

oral piercingsBut if you know that you do not have a particularly acceptable dental health, you should think twice before puncturing the interiors of your mouth. You may be inviting a heap of trouble if you do not heed the dangers and warning signs.

An Opening to Infection

As the tattoo artist opens up a new cavity in your mouth, it literally opens up a new avenue for harmful bacteria. Some of the disorders are not serious, such as difficulty in swallowing, swelling and more. On the other hand, it also makes you susceptible to major infections, many of which are hepatitis, endocarditis, allergic reactions, even choking.

If you are sure about getting a piercing, make sure first that your oral health is good. In fact, we here at Aura Dental would only permit patients with excellent oral health to get mouth piercings. That way, their resistance to impurity and septicity is at a premium.

Do It Right or Not at All

We are not knowledgeable in body piercing, but we know that you should get a reputable person and have it done in a sterile place of business. Before and after you had the piercing, we advise you to seek a dentist to make sure you are all right.

Do not think that you will adjust after the piercing. Do it right, or do not do it at all. That is because at Aura Dental, we always want what it best for your oral wellbeing.

Contact us today to set an appointment.