Do You Really Need to Visit the Dentist Every 6 Months? The Haywards Heath Truth

We’ve all heard the advice to see your dentist every six months. But is this one-size-fits-all approach the best for everyone? The truth is, the ideal frequency for dental check-ups depends on several factors.

Factors Affecting Your Dental Check-up Schedule

While regular check-ups are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health, several factors influence how often you should visit the dentist:

  • Overall oral health: If you have a history of gum disease, cavities, or other dental issues, more frequent visits may be necessary.

  • Oral hygiene routine: Consistent brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash can help reduce the need for frequent cleanings.

  • Diet: A diet high in sugary or acidic foods can increase your risk of dental problems, potentially requiring more frequent visits.

The Benefits of Regular Dental Care

Regular dental check-ups offer numerous benefits:

  • Early problem detection: Catching issues like cavities or gum disease early on can prevent more serious problems and costly treatments.

  • Professional cleaning: Your dentist can remove plaque and tartar build-up, helping to prevent gum disease and bad breath.

  • Oral cancer screening: Regular check-ups include an examination for oral cancer, a crucial part of early detection.

  • Personalised advice: Your dentist can provide tailored recommendations for oral hygiene, diet, and other factors affecting your oral health.

The Risks of Skipping Dental Appointments

Postponing dental appointments might seem harmless, but it can lead to serious oral health problems. To protect your smile, schedule regular check-ups with your dentist. Your dentist can help determine the best check-up schedule based on your individual needs.

Don't neglect your oral health. Schedule your check-up today and take the first step towards a healthier smile.

Our Locations -

S3 Dental Haywards Heath

26 Haywards Rd,

Haywards Heath

RH16 4HT

01444 440123

hh@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Eltham

72 Well Hall Rd,

London

SE9 6SL

0208 850 9836

eltham@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Hinchley Wood

3 Manor Rd N,

Hinchley Wood,

Esher

KT10 0AA

0208 398 6322

hw@s3dental.co.uk


HOW COMPOSITE BONDING CAN TRANSFORM YOUR LOOK

Tired of chipped teeth or minor gaps throwing off your smile? Composite bonding might be the perfect solution for you! This cosmetic dentistry treatment utilises a tooth-coloured resin material, meticulously sculpted and applied to your existing teeth. The resin is cleverly matched to your natural tooth shade, ensuring a seamless and undetectable result. Composite bonding is a versatile treatment, effective in addressing a variety of concerns. It can fix chipped or cracked teeth, close small gaps between teeth, and even alter the shape or colour of teeth for a more uniform appearance.

Do they shave your teeth for composite bonding?

In most cases, composite bonding does not require removal of the tooth structure. The beauty of this procedure lies in its minimally invasive nature. The dentist will meticulously roughen the surface of your existing tooth to create a strong bond for the composite resin. This roughening is very minor and doesn't remove any significant amount of tooth enamel. However, in some rare situations, a tiny amount of enamel might need to be removed, particularly if the chip or crack being addressed is quite large.

Do bonded teeth look fake?

When done correctly by a skilled dentist, composite bonding should not look fake.

Here's why:

  • A skilled dentist will use a resin material that perfectly matches the shade of your surrounding teeth to ensure a seamless and natural appearance.

  • The dentist sculpts the material to mimic the natural contours and texture of your teeth to create a realistic look.

  • Composite bonding involves applying a small amount of material to keep the repair subtle and avoids an unnaturally bulky appearance.

Overall, composite bonding is a well-established cosmetic dentistry procedure that, when performed with skill, delivers natural-looking results.

How painful is composite bonding?

Unlike procedures like fillings or crowns that involve drilling into the tooth, bonding typically requires minimal tooth alteration. The dentist might gently roughen the surface to create a strong hold for the resin, but this is a minor and painless step. Anaesthetic is usually not needed, though may be offered for those with heightened sensitivity. The most you might experience is temporary sensitivity to hot or cold after the procedure, which is usually mild and fades within a few days.

Our Locations -

S3 Dental Haywards Heath

26 Haywards Rd,

Haywards Heath

RH16 4HT

01444 440123

hh@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Eltham

72 Well Hall Rd,

London

SE9 6SL

0208 850 9836

eltham@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Hinchley Wood

3 Manor Rd N,

Hinchley Wood,

Esher

KT10 0AA

0208 398 6322

hw@s3dental.co.uk

Replacement teeth

Missing teeth can be a really depressing . Not only do they affect your self-esteem and confidence, they can also make it harder to eat and speak properly. Want some positive news? You don’t have to keep those gaps in your smile! Here at S3 Dental we have a number of excellent options available for replacing your missing teeth and to get you smiling brightly again.

What is the most affordable way to replace missing teeth?

Dentures are undeniably the cheapest solution for replacing missing teeth. This affordability makes them a good choice for anyone on a budget who wants to replace missing teeth and improve their ability to chew but let's face it, the idea of dentures can feel a bit outdated. Its important to remember that dentures come with limitations. They may slip and slide whilst eating and the removal process for cleaning might not be ideal for everyone. If you crave the freedom to bite into a juicy apple or simply want a more natural-feeling solution, there are other options to explore that might be a better fit for your lifestyle.

What is the gold standard for replacing missing teeth?

Dental implants reign supreme in tooth replacement for a multitude of reasons. Unlike dentures that can slip and bridges that rely on neighboring teeth, implants function as a standalone solution. They mimic the natural root of a tooth, fusing with your jawbone for unparalleled stability. This not only feels more natural when biting and chewing, but it also prevents bone loss in the jaw. Plus, with proper care, implants are incredibly durable, potentially lasting a lifetime, making them a fantastic investment in your long-term oral health.

How much is a dental implant?

Dental implants start from £3000., although the upfront cost of dental implants might seem daunting, it's important to consider them an investment rather than an expense.

Here’s why -

1) Implants are built to last a lifetime with proper care. This translates to significant cost savings in the long run.

2) Implants function just like natural teeth, restoring your confidence when eating, speaking, and smiling.

3)They also prevent bone loss in the jaw, maintaining your facial structure and youthful appearance.

By choosing implants, you're investing not just in a beautiful smile, but also in improved oral health, long-term durability, and a confidence boost that's priceless.

Can you replace all of your teeth with dental implants?

For anyone missing a full arch of teeth, the all-on-four implant solution offers a revolutionary approach. Unlike traditional implants that require an implant for each missing tooth, all-on-four utilises just four strategically placed implants to support a fixed denture. This innovative technique boasts numerous advantages. First, it minimizes surgical intervention and potentially avoids bone grafting procedures. Second, in many cases, a temporary denture can be attached the same day as implant surgery, allowing you to smile with confidence almost immediately. Most importantly, all-on-four implants provide exceptional stability and function, mimicking natural teeth for a comfortable and natural-looking smile that restores your ability to enjoy your favourite foods without worry.

Are you considering dental implants to reclaim your dazzling smile? We understand you might have questions! Here at S3 Dental, our friendly and experienced team are here to chat. They can discuss your unique situation, answer any concerns you have about implants, and explore if they're the right fit for you.

Our Locations -

S3 Dental Haywards Heath

26 Haywards Rd,

Haywards Heath

RH16 4HT

01444 440123

hh@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Eltham

72 Well Hall Rd,

London

SE9 6SL

0208 850 9836

eltham@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Hinchley Wood

3 Manor Rd N,

Hinchley Wood,

Esher

KT10 0AA

0208 398 6322

hw@s3dental.co.uk


How to make teeth whiter

 
 

Let's face it, a confident smile is a powerful tool. But if coffee, wine, or just plain old age have left your teeth less than pearly white, achieving that perfect smile can feel out of reach. Fear not! This blog is your one-stop shop for all things teeth whitening. So, ditch the dullness and get ready to reveal your brightest smile yet! Let's embark on this journey to a whiter, more confident you.

Can toothpaste actually whiten teeth?

Whitening toothpaste can help, but it's important to manage expectations. Most whitening toothpastes focus on removing surface stains. They achieve this with mild abrasives that polish the teeth and gentle chemicals that help loosen stains. These toothpastes won't lighten the natural colour of your teeth or address deeper stains. They can make your smile appear brighter by removing surface grime, but the effect is subtle. Because of the abrasive nature of this toothpaste we wouldn’t recommend you use them as they can damage the tooth’s enamel.

Can yellow teeth become white again?

Absolutely professional teeth whitening can make yellow teeth white again. It's actually the most effective method for achieving significant whitening results. Professional whitening treatments are legally allowed to use bleaching agents with a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide than what's available on the high street. These stronger agents can penetrate deeper into the enamel, breaking down and removing even the most stubborn of stains. However, it's important to remember that everyone's teeth respond differently to whitening. The degree of whitening achievable depends on the cause and depth of the yellowing. Surface stains caused by food and drinks tend to whiten more readily than deeper stains. Genetics also play a role in the natural colour of your teeth. While professional whitening can significantly lighten your teeth, it won't achieve an unrealistic shade of white far beyond your natural baseline. After professional whitening, your teeth can gradually yellow again due to lifestyle habits. Maintaining good oral hygiene and limiting stain-causing foods and drinks can help extend the whitening results.

How does professional teeth whitening work?

Professional teeth whitening relies on two key components working together: clear, flexible plastic custom-made whitening trays and high-quality whitening gels containing either hydrogen peroxide, which is often used in daytime gels, it works quickly and breaks down stains efficiently, Or carbamide peroxide this is a gentler option, often used in night time gels, that releases whitening agents more slowly over a longer period. Once you receive your custom trays and chosen the gel, you'll wear the trays filled with gel for the prescribed duration, following your dentist's recommendations. Most boutique whitening treatments take around 10-14 days to achieve noticeable results.

Benefits of a Custom Fit:

  • Comfort: A well-fitting tray won't pinch or irritate your gums, making treatment more comfortable.

  • Effectiveness: A snug fit ensures the whitening gel stays in contact with your teeth for maximum whitening power.

  • Leakage Prevention: Minimal leakage minimises irritation to the surrounding gum tissue.

After completing the treatment, your dentist will advise on maintaining your whiter smile with proper oral hygiene and top up whitening sessions.

Benefits of Boutique Whitening:

  • Comfort: Custom trays provide a comfortable and secure fit, minimising leaks and irritation.

  • Effective Whitening: Boutique gels often contains higher concentrations of whitening agents compared to options available on the high street, leading to noticeable results.

  • Professional Supervision: A dentist oversees the treatment, ensuring safety and effectiveness.

Overall, professional teeth whitening is a powerful tool for achieving a dramatically brighter smile. If you're looking for the most effective and controlled way to whiten your yellow teeth, consulting a dentist for professional whitening is the best course of action.

Our Locations -

S3 Dental Haywards Heath

26 Haywards Rd,

Haywards Heath

RH16 4HT

01444 440123

hh@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Eltham

72 Well Hall Rd,

London

SE9 6SL

0208 850 9836

eltham@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Hinchley Wood

3 Manor Rd N,

Hinchley Wood,

Esher

KT10 0AA

0208 398 6322

hw@s3dental.co.uk


Bleeding Gums?

 
 

Don't Panic: A Guide to Understanding and Treating Bleeding Gums

We've all been there. Brushing your teeth, and then – a tinge of red. Bleeding gums can be a worry, but the good news is you're not alone, it's a surprisingly common dental issue.

What Does Bleeding Gums Indicate?

Bleeding gums can point to a few different things, depending on the severity and other symptoms.

Dental Hygiene -

  • Gingivitis (early stage of gum disease) : This is the most common culprit. Gingivitis is caused by plaque build-up at the gum line. The plaque irritates the gums, making them prone to bleeding when brushed or flossed.

  • Brushing too Hard: Aggressive brushing can damage gum tissue and cause bleeding.

Other Dental Issues:

  • Periodontitis (gum disease) : If gingivitis isn't treated, it can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more serious gum infection that damages tissues and bone supporting your teeth. This can cause significant bleeding and eventually lead to tooth loss.

Health Conditions:

  • Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamin C and vitamin K can weaken gums and increase risk of bleeding.

  • Bleeding Disorders: Certain medical conditions like haemophilia can make bleeding more likely.

  • Hormone Changes: Pregnancy, menstruation, menopause and puberty can cause hormonal changes that affect the gum and lead to bleeding.

  • Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can weaken the immune system and increase gum infections and bleeding.

Do Bleeding Gums Go Away On There Own?

Bleeding gums may go away on their own in a few cases, but it's generally we do not recommend you wait and see. Bleeding gums are a symptom, there's an underlying reason why your gums are bleeding, and leaving it untreated could make the problem worse. In the early stages good oral hygiene practices can reverse the inflammation and stop them from bleeding. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis that can damage bone and tissue and is irreversible. A dental hygienist can properly diagnose the cause of your bleeding gums and recommend the best treatment.

How do I stop my gums from bleeding?

While some home remedies can help with minor bleeding gums, it's important to address the underlying cause.

  • Improve your oral hygiene: Brushing twice daily for two minutes with an electric tooth brush and flossing / interdental cleaning once a day are crucial.

  • Saltwater rinse: Mix half a teaspoon of table salt in a warm glass of water and swish for 30 seconds, 3-4 times a day. This can help reduce inflammation and bacteria.

Long-term solutions:

  • See a dentist: Bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis. A dentist can diagnose the cause and recommend the best course of treatment, which may include professional cleaning by a hygienist or deeper treatments for advanced gum disease.

  • Lifestyle changes: Stopping smoking and a healthy diet rich in vitamin C and K can significantly improve gum health.

What does a dental hygienist do?

A dental hygienists main focus is on preventive care, specifically preventing and treating gum disease.

  • Cleanings : They perform scaling and polishing, to remove plaque and tartar build-up that is missed by regular brushing and flossing. This helps prevent gingivitis and gum disease. They also assess gum health and check for signs of oral cancer.

  • Educate And Advices: Dental hygienist explain proper oral hygiene techniques. They show you the most effective brushing and flossing techniques.

  • Treatment Plans: Based on your dental health, they can recommend treatment plans to treat gum disease or other concerns. This can involve additional cleanings, fluoride treatments, or referrals to a dentist for further intervention.

For most adults with good oral hygiene, a visit to the hygienist every six months is recommended. This allows for regular professional cleanings to remove plaque build-up, preventing gingivitis and gum disease.

Where to find us

S3 Dental Haywards Heath

26 Haywards Rd,

Haywards Heath

RH16 4HT

01444 440123

hh@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Eltham

72 Well Hall Rd,

London

SE9 6SL

0208 850 9836

eltham@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Hinchley Wood

3 Manor Rd N,

Hinchley Wood,

Esher

KT10 0AA

0208 398 6322

hw@s3dental.co.uk


Crooked Teeth?

Smiling Shyly ? Let's Talk Crooked Teeth.

Here at S3 Dental, we all know the importance of a big bright, confident smile. But what if crooked teeth are the reason you hold back on showing yours off? Many people struggle with misaligned teeth, but fear no more there are many fantastic solutions available right here at S3 Dental.

What Causes Crooked Teeth? 

Crooked teeth can be a source of frustration for many, but the good news is that understanding the reason behind the misalignment, is the first step towards a dazzling smile.

  • Genetics -  Jaw size, shape, and even the number of teeth you have can be inherited and influence how your teeth erupt.

  • Early Tooth Loss - Whether due to decay or injury, losing baby teeth early can leave gaps that cause surrounding teeth to move and crowd the space meant for permanent teeth.

  • Habits: Tongue thrusting, thumb sucking, and even long term use of a pacifier can put pressure on developing teeth, pushing them out of alignment.

  • Jaw Misalignment: Sometimes, the jaws themselves can grow disproportionately, leading to an overbite, underbite, or other bite problems that affect tooth position.

    Poor Oral Hygiene: Periodontitis (gum disease) can weaken the bone which supports your teeth, allowing them to become loose and move over time.

Do People Notice Crooked Teeth?

Absolutely, teeth are a prominent facial feature, Whether someone consciously registers it or not, alignment can definitely be noticeable, whilst mild misalignments might not be as noticeable,  more severe cases such as overlapping, crowded,  crooked teeth are more likely to be noticed. Our brains are wired to subconsciously evaluate symmetry. Straight teeth contribute to a more symmetrical smile, which we find aesthetically pleasing. Ultimately, if they're bothering you and impacting your confidence, there are fantastic treatment options available to achieve the smile you desire.

Can Crooked Teeth Be Corrected?

Absolutely! Crooked teeth can be corrected in a variety of ways, depending on the severity and your desired outcome. Here at S3 Dental, you have access to excellent dental professionals who can create a personalised treatment plan for you.

Here's a breakdown of some popular options:

  • Orthodontics Using Clear Aligners: This is the gold standard for correcting crooked teeth. Traditional braces use brackets and wires to gradually shift your teeth into the new position. Clear aligners offer a more discreet alternative.

  • Cosmetic Dentistry: For milder cases, cosmetic dentistry options like dental veneers or composite bonding can create the illusion of straighter teeth. These procedures don't physically move the teeth, but they can improve their appearance.

What Is ClearCorrect And How Does It Work?

Clear aligners are a popular alternative to traditional braces. Here at S3 Dental, ClearCorrect is our leading brand of clear aligners used for straightening teeth. ClearCorrect is a system that uses a series of clear, custom-made, removable plastic aligners. These aligners gently put pressure on your teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position over time.

ClearCorrect Process.

  1. Comprehensive examination: The first step is a consultation with a dentist qualified to provide ClearCorrect treatment. They'll assess your teeth, take X-rays, take a 3d scan and photographs, explore treatment options, costs and answer any questions. You will also receive a free orthodontic treatment simulation which will show how the end results are predicted to look and the time taken to achieve the treatment and discuss your desired outcome.

  2. Custom Aligners: ClearCorrect then manufactures your custom-made aligner trays based on the treatment plan. You'll receive a series of these trays, typically worn for 2 weeks each before switching to the next in the sequence.

  3. Gradual Movement: As you wear the aligners throughout the day (22 hours per day), they apply gentle, controlled pressure to your teeth, slowly moving them into position.

  4. Regular Check- ups: You'll need regular check-ups every 6-8 weeks with your dentist throughout treatment to monitor progress and ensure everything is on track.

Advantages Of ClearCorrect -

  • Discreet: The clear plastic aligners are nearly invisible, making them a much more discreet than traditional metal braces.

  • Removable:  Clear Aligners are removed for eating, drinking (except water), brushing, and flossing.

  • Comfort: Clear aligners are more comfortable than traditional braces.

  • Minimal invasive: Clear aligners do bot require any permanent changes to the tooth structure like some alternative cosmetic treatments.

Dental Veneers and Composite Bonding -

  • Veneers: These are thin shells of porcelain and are custom-made to fit over the front surface of your teeth. They can be shaped and coloured to mask minor misalignment, gaps, or chips, creating a straighter and more uniform appearance.

  • Composite Bonding: This technique uses a tooth-coloured resin material applied directly to the tooth surface. The dentist can mould and shape the resin to cover gaps, chips, or slightly crooked teeth, creating a more even look.

Porcelain Veneers and bonding can be a quick and attractive solution for mildly crooked teeth, however it is important to remember cosmetic treatments don't actually straighten teeth, They only mask the misalignment. Underlying bite problems or misalignment can persist and even worsen over time if not addressed with orthodontics. It is also important to remember some tooth enamel needs to be removed for veneer placement, making it a permanent alteration.

Where to find us

S3 Dental Haywards Heath

26 Haywards Rd,

Haywards Heath

RH16 4HT

01444 440123

hh@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Eltham

72 Well Hall Rd,

London

SE9 6SL

0208 850 9836

eltham@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Hinchley Wood

3 Manor Rd N,

Hinchley Wood,

Esher

KT10 0AA

0208 398 6322

hw@s3dental.co.uk



WEDDING DAY SMILES - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

 
 

The sun has finally arrived in the south east and just in time as wedding season is fast approaching and if there is one thing you will be doing a lot of on your special day its smiling! Here at S3 Dental we offer a range of cosmetic treatments to complete your wedding glow.

How To Get Your Smile Wedding Ready.

Teeth Straightening

If you have enough time to do so before your wedding and would like to straighten your teeth then ClearCorrect clear aligners are perfect for you.

ClearCorrect aligners are comfortable, removable, and very discreet. These custom made aligners are worn for a minimum of 22 hours a day and only removed when eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. 

On average the treatment takes between 12 – 18 months so best to get started as soon as you get engaged!

Orthodontic treatment has a number of benefits beyond the visible improvement in the smile. 

  • Easier to clean

  • Reduces risk of dental decay

  • Reduces risk of gum disease

  • Improve bite issues

  • Improve jaw function 

 

Composite Bonding Also Referred To As Composite Contouring Or Composite Veneers

The skilful and clever addition of white filling material allows for the change in shape, size and shade of the teeth. Usually paired with teeth whitening for optimum results and is a fantastic way to add the finishing touches after teeth straightening.  

Composite bonding is perfect for - 

  • Repairing chipped teeth.

  • Discoloured teeth.

  • Straighten crooked teeth.

  • Finishing touches after orthodontic treatment.

 

Teeth Whitening

Whitening your teeth is the perfect way to give your teeth that extra sparkle for your wedding photos!

For best results you will need to opt for professional teeth whitening systems rather than ones from the high street of a beauticians.

How it works -

We make custom-made whitening trays, whitening gel is placed into the whitening trays and worn for either 1 hour or 4 hours (depending on the prescription) every day for 2 weeks. Over the 2 weeks, your teeth will gradually lighten, improving the shade of the teeth. 

Ideally we would recommend whitening your teeth at least 1 month before the big day.

Visit The Hygienist

Its amazing what a difference a quick scale and polish can make to your smile by removing any staining and plaque from your teeth.

This low budget option is a must for anyone getting married this summer!

 

Veneers

Porcelain veneers are renowned for providing a radiant and flawless natural looking smile. They mimic the natural teeth due to their ability to reflect natural light. Porcelain veneers are less likely to stain, making them a more durable long-term solution that composite veneers.

Before placing Porcelain veneers, the teeth need to be prepared and a digital impression taken and sent to the dental laboratory. Temporary veneers will be fitted while the dental lab prepares your custom-made veneers. This means multiple visits to the surgery. Veneers can take a few months from start to finish so ideally needs to be started 6 months before your wedding.

Where to find us

S3 Dental Haywards Heath

26 Haywards Rd,

Haywards Heath

RH16 4HT

01444 440123

hh@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Eltham

72 Well Hall Rd,

London

SE9 6SL

0208 850 9836

eltham@s3dental.co.uk

S3 Dental Hinchley Wood

3 Manor Rd N,

Hinchley Wood,

Esher

KT10 0AA

0208 398 6322

hw@s3dental.co.uk


Inspiration: Paris

Sample blog post text. Maecenas sed diam eget risus varius blandit sit amet non magna. Vivamus sagittis lacus vel augue laoreet rutrum faucibus dolor auctor. Duis mollis, est non commodo luctus, nisi erat porttitor ligula, eget lacinia odio sem nec elit. Aenean lacinia bibendum nulla sed consectetur.

Morbi leo risus, porta ac consectetur ac, vestibulum at eros. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Morbi leo risus, porta ac consectetur ac, vestibulum at eros. Cras mattis consectetur purus sit amet fermentum.

Curabitur blandit tempus porttitor. Aenean eu leo quam. Pellentesque ornare sem lacinia quam venenatis vestibulum. Curabitur blandit tempus porttitor. Maecenas sed diam eget risus varius blandit sit amet non magna.