6 ways to look after your teeth over Christmas

‘Tis the season to be jolly – meaning mince pies, selection boxes and umpteen tubs of sweets will no doubt make their way into our diets throughout December, washed down with a mug of mulled wine or a glass of champagne.

Although Christmas is a time for indulging in festive foods and drinks, all that eating and drinking can take its toll on your teeth – not just your waistline!

In this blog, our experienced dentists in St Helens will explain what you can do to protect your teeth during the Christmas holidays and well into 2024.

1. Maintain your oral health routine

No matter how busy you are – attending parties, eating festive lunches and doing some last-minute shopping – it’s important not to let your oral health routine go out of the window.

Teeth can take a bit of a hammering during the holiday season, especially with all the sugary foods and alcoholic drinks consumed.

Brushing 2-3 times a day will help to keep your teeth sparkling throughout the party season, and flossing at least once a day will remove food that’s lodged between your teeth.

2. Treat yourself to a new toothbrush

Since Christmas is a time for giving, perhaps you could purchase a new electric toothbrush.

Over time, bacteria can build up on manual and electric toothbrushes alike. Bristles can become frayed and worn down with frequent use – decreasing their cleaning effectiveness – which is why you should replace them every 3-4 months.

Electric or battery-operated toothbrushes are generally more powerful than manual ones, helping to reduce plaque and gum disease.

3. Beware of Christmas puds

Even after eating a Christmas dinner, somehow, we always seem to have space for a dessert – whether it be Christmas cake, Christmas pudding with brandy sauce, a mince pie or gingerbread person.

However, all these festive favourites are laden with dried fruit and sugar, which can stick to your teeth and cause serious damage.

If you’ll be gorging on sticky and sugary treats on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, our dentists in St Helens advise you to pay extra attention when brushing your teeth. And if your kids have had a lot of sweets, make sure they brush their teeth properly – both in the morning and before bed.

4. Snack in moderation

There are plenty of festive treats to indulge in over the Xmas period. Sugary snacks are always popular at this time of year and, contrary to popular belief, it’s not how many you have, it’s how often you have them and how long they sit in your mouth. So, the ideal is to try to avoid snacking in between meals.

The good news is, there are some ‘smarter’ snacks you can enjoy. Cheese is great for teeth, helping to restore the natural acid balance in the mouth and reducing the risk of developing tooth decay after enjoying a main meal. Nuts are also a good choice. These contain fibre, folic acid calcium and various vitamins – all things your teeth will thank you for!

5. Don’t use your teeth as tools

If your party trick is to open a bottle of beer or fizzy pop with your teeth, or you use your front teeth to cut tape when wrapping presents, you could actually be doing them more harm than good!

The chances are that you don’t want a chip, broken or cracked tooth spoiling your festive snaps for Instagram, do you?

So, instead of using your teeth, take a moment to find the bottle opener or a pair of scissors in the drawer.

6. Make an appointment at Kiln Lane Dental

Do you want the gift of a perfect smile?

Though not something you can expect to unwrap on Christmas morning, if you’re unhappy with the appearance of your teeth or you want to prevent health and dental issues later on, the team at Kiln Lane Dental can help you transform your smile in the New Year.

If you haven’t seen your dentist or hygienist for a long time and you’re worried you might have a problem with your teeth, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with us.

Booking a consultation at our family dental practice in St Helens will enable us to examine your teeth and gums and discuss your dental concerns in further detail. We can then offer a bespoke treatment plan and talk you through the associated costs.

Want to know more?

Our dentists in St Helens can help to make it a pearly white Christmas by advising you on how to take proper care of your teeth during the festivities and offering routine care at our clinic.

To talk to a member of our friendly team, call 01744 25776. Alternatively, drop us an email at info@kilnlanedental.co.uk, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

5 dental care tips for the summer

Going anywhere nice this summer?

Whether you’ve booked a fortnight in the sunshine or a weekend in the countryside, you’ve probably started to think about what you’ll need to pack.

Are we right?

Whilst it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and neglect your teeth, our St Helens family dentist, here at Kiln Lane Dental, would like to remind you that your dental health is crucial all year round – wherever you may be.

That’s why, we thought we’d share some dental care tips for the whole family.

1. Keep up your dental hygiene routine

Brushing and flossing twice a day is standard procedure at home – helping to keep your teeth strong and healthy. But it’s even more important that you do it, both in the morning and at night, when on holiday.

This is because, when you’re on your hols, you might be tempted to overindulge in sugary drinks and snacks – especially if you’ve booked an all-inclusive package!

Sugar attracts harmful bacteria that can destroy the tooth’s enamel, causing cavities and tooth decay.

So, make sure you remember to pack your toothbrush (and charger if you use an electric one) and a tube of fluoride toothpaste to protect your teeth.

2. Drink plenty of water

A cold, refreshing pint can be appealing on a hot summer’s day, much like an ice lolly is for kids. As well as being the best way to stay hydrated, drinking water is also a much safer option for your dental health.

If you’re dehydrated, your mouth won’t produce enough saliva, resulting in you having a dry mouth. Saliva washes away bacteria and food particles in the mouth, preventing plaque build-up and helping to keep your teeth and tongue clean.

By drinking alcohol and sugary drinks, plaque will build up on your teeth, promoting bacterial growth and leading to tooth decay.

3. Eat healthily

While you could live off barbecue food and ice cream for summer, it’s not something we recommend at our St Helens dental practice!

Instead, try to incorporate healthy food into your meals. For example, you could start the day off with a delicious yet nutritional breakfast, such as a bowl of cereal, porridge, fruit or an omelette.

For lunch or tea, opt for a sandwich or a salad to keep your energy levels up. If you’re feeling peckish afterwards, consider a piece of fruit or veg. Apples, carrots and celery are great for cleaning plaque from teeth and freshening breath, and watermelon can help you to stay hydrated.

4. Avoid chewing ice

Although it’s a quick way to cool down and rehydrate, chewing ice cubes can hurt your teeth – not to mention cause serious damage.

Crunching on the ice from your drink could chip or break a tooth, meaning you’ll need to pay our St Helens family dentist a visit when you’re back to have a filling or the tooth removed.

If you want to quench your thirst quickly, drink a glass of cold water instead. Or prop your drink in an ice bucket to keep it cool.

5. Book your appointment at our St Helens family dental clinic

Here at Kiln Lane Dental, we offer a plethora of preventative and restorative treatments for patients of all ages and recommend everyone visits our family dental practice at least twice a year.

By scheduling and attending routine appointments, you can trust that your teeth are clean and healthy – meaning you won’t need to hide your teeth the next time you’re asked to “smile!” for a photo. It also allows our dental experts to detect problems early on and advise the most suitable treatment to improve your oral health.

To make an appointment at our St Helens family dental clinic, call 01744 25776 and we’ll arrange a time that works for you and the rest of your family.

How does dieting affect your oral health?

Started off the new year with good intentions to eat healthier? Want to get in shape for the summer months ahead?

Making a few lifestyle changes – like going to the gym throughout the week and resisting the temptation to order a cheeky takeaway on the weekend – is a great way to shed pounds.

However, we thought you should know that some weight loss tips can actually cause harm to your teeth. And the last thing you want is to get down to your target weight and not feel confident enough to smile about it!

Allow the team at Kiln Lane Dental to explain what fad diets can do to your oral health and how we can help you lead a happy and healthy lifestyle at our dental practice in St Helens.

Using meal-replacement smoothies

If you’re eager to lose weight quickly, you may contemplate swapping some of your meals for smoothies.

However, blending fruits doesn’t have the same effect as eating them whole. When you eat an apple or banana, for example, the fructose (naturally-occurring sugar) is encased in fibres that your body breaks down in the digestive system. With smoothies, the sugars instantly stick to your teeth and can have a detrimental impact on your oral health.

If you’ve not got time for a bowl of cereal in the morning, grab a piece of fresh fruit and drink lots of water. And if you’re looking for a healthy snack to tide you over to your next meal, try raw vegetables such as carrots or celery – both provide antioxidants and will increase your saliva production and reduce the risk of cavities.

Eating little and often

Dieticians suggest eating smaller portions more frequently if you want to lose weight. It’s believed to prevent bloating and help boost your energy levels, allowing your body to function efficiently throughout the day.

But something you may not be aware of is, the more times you eat, the longer your teeth are under attack from acids and bacteria.

Therefore, we recommend sticking to three nutritional meals a day. Drinking plenty of water in between meals will also help curb pangs of hunger and benefit your teeth at the same time.

Opting for low-fat foods

When watching their weight, some people decide to cut fat from their diets.

This is not something our dental experts advise as, more times than not, food manufacturers use sugar as a substitute to enhance and preserve flavours.

Sugar attracts bad bacteria and can slowly dissolve the enamel, causing tooth decay. This can make your teeth extremely sensitive and affect their appearance – leaving you embarrassed to talk and smile.

Instead of searching high and low for foods with reduced fat in the supermarket, products that contain healthier fats will be better for your health and teeth. Things like fish, avocados, chia seeds, eggs, nuts and yoghurt.

Drinking plenty of fluids

Whether you’re watching what you eat and counting calories or simply exercising more, it’s important to take on plenty of fluids – but not too many caffeinated drinks, such as tea, coffee and energy drinks!

Drinking water will prevent you from dehydrating and fill you up faster – meaning you won’t feel the urge to overindulge.

In addition to water, our dental professionals also recommend drinking milk as its calcium content is great for your teeth and bones!

Top tip: if you don’t like water or milk, consider diluting a sugar-free fruit juice or cordial with water.

How can Kiln Lane Dental help?

Eating healthy and exercising regularly will help you to get summer-body-ready – but you also need to establish a good oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day and attending regular dental check-ups.

As a leading St Helens family dentist, we can advise you on how to care for your teeth properly and are proud to offer a wide range of preventative and restorative dental treatments for patients of all ages.

The first step is to arrange a consultation with our friendly dental experts. During this appointment, we will assess the condition of your teeth and establish a suitable treatment plan for your dental needs – whether it be a simple scale and polish, tooth whitening, composite bonding or Invisalign®.

Why not get in touch to get the ball rolling today? Either call us on 01744 25776 or email info@kilnlanedental.co.uk, and we’ll get back to you.

Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast?

How do you start your day?

Perhaps a quick run followed by a cold shower? Hitting snooze three times before getting out of bed? Trying to convince your 5 year old to put on their coat and shoes?

Everyone’s morning routine is different. But there’s one thing we should all be doing in exactly the same way, at exactly the same time. That is, brushing our teeth before we eat breakfast – not after.

Surprised? Most people assume that cleaning your pearly whites after breakfast is better. After all, surely it helps to remove any leftover food debris and start the day with fresh breath?

Whilst those things are true, it’s actually much more beneficial to brush before your bowl of porridge. As soon as the alarm clock goes off, we should all (ideally) be jumping out of bed and reaching straight for the toothbrush. Here’s why.

4 reasons to brush before your bran flakes

1. Clear overnight bacteria

Breakfast foods are notorious for containing sugary carbohydrates. Cereals, breads, waffles, pancakes – they all contain the stuff that plaque-causing bacteria love to feed on. And when you wake up in the morning, the level of bacteria inside your mouth is at its highest.

This creates the perfect conditions to wreak havoc on your teeth.

As you tuck into your bagel, the bacteria begin to flourish – feeding on the sugary carbs, multiplying even further and releasing acids that can damage the enamel.

Brushing your teeth before breakfast helps to clear away the bacteria that has accumulated inside your mouth overnight. If it’s not there, it can’t do any harm. Plus, the fluoride in the toothpaste will create a protective barrier and defend your enamel against acids in breakfast foods.

2. Avoid tooth erosion

Brushing too soon after eating a meal can also damage the enamel layer of the tooth.

This is particularly true after eating acidic food and drinks, such as those typically consumed at breakfast (e.g. fruits, orange juice, coffee). The bristles of the toothbrush can actually brush the leftover acid into the tooth, gradually wearing away the enamel to reveal the dentin beneath.

This is known as ‘tooth erosion’ and can lead to a range of symptoms, including discolouration.

3. Kick-start saliva production

Saliva is a fantastic protective force.

Not only does it deposit minerals that help to strengthen your teeth, it helps to break down food, neutralises acidity and naturally kills any harmful bacteria that may be lurking in your mouth.

Unfortunately, though, saliva production diminishes dramatically during sleep. This is part of the reason why bacteria can multiply through the night, and we often wake up with a dry mouth.

Brushing your teeth as soon as you get up is an easy way to kick-start normal ‘daytime’ production, therefore creating another line of defence against the acid in breakfast foods.

4. Make sure you remember

How many times have you scarfed down your beans on toast in the morning, and rushed out the door without a second thought for your oral hygiene? Whether you start work super early or need to get the kids ready for school, cleaning your teeth can often be the last thing on your mind.

Which is why it’s a good idea to get it done and dusted early doors.

Brushing prior to breakfast reduces the chances you’ll run out of time or forget to do it later. Then, all you need to do afterwards is give your mouth a quick rinse to clear away any food.

Prefer to stick to your usual routine?

If you’re set in your ways and would prefer to continue brushing your teeth after breakfast, this can be ok – providing you take a few precautions to lessen some of the effects outlined above.

For example, to avoid enamel erosion, try to wait at least 30-60 minutes after eating before you brush – and in the meantime, either rinse with or have a drink of water. This will remove any lingering food and allows enough time for your saliva to neutralise the pH balance of your mouth.

When you do get around to brushing your teeth, it also helps to use a soft-bristled brush.

Worried the damage may already be done?

Even if you’re in the habit of brushing your teeth after breakfast, enamel erosion takes a very long time. But some of the earliest signs include:

discolouration of the teeth
increased sensitivity to taste, texture and temperature
cracks and chips
indentations (known as cups) on the surface of your teeth
pain

If you do notice any of these symptoms, it may be worth booking a routine check-up.

Unfortunately, erosion isn’t reversible. But having assessed your overall oral health, we can identify the issue and provide tailored advice on how it could potentially be treated (e.g. composite bonding, veneers etc.) and how to prevent the damage from becoming any worse.

Alternatively, for further tips on effective brushing habits, why not make an appointment with one of our dental hygienists? These are available to absolutely everyone – including members and non-members – and are a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the best oral hygiene practices.

Simply use our online booking system to choose a time and date that works for you.

Or if you prefer, you can either give us a call on 01744 25775 or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and we’ll respond to your enquiry as soon as possible.

How to floss

Only 31% of people in the UK floss their teeth on a regular basis.

Be honest – how often do you do it?

Once a day? Once a week? Never?

Flossing is an important oral hygiene habit. Just as important, in fact, as brushing your teeth twice a day. It helps to dislodge any food particles and remove harmful plaque. And the official NHS guidance is that we should all start from around the age of 12. So why do most of us not bother?

Often, it’s because people simply don’t know how to floss – or at least, they don’t know how to do it correctly. So to set you on the right foot (and hopefully encourage more people to have a go!), here our dental hygiene experts outline the best technique.

Why not give it a try?

Make today the day that you learn how to floss properly. And ensure you’re giving those pearly whites of yours the best possible chance of staying healthy.

5 steps to floss your teeth like a pro

Step 1: Tear off 45cm

To make it easier to grip, start by tearing off a strand of dental floss around 45cm long. This may sound like a lot, but you’ll need enough to use a new (clean) section every time you move from one tooth to the next.

Wrap most of the floss around the middle finger on one hand, and a small amount on the middle finger on the other – leaving approximately 5cm for use in the centre.

Step 2: Hold the dental floss taut

Next, use your index fingers and thumbs to pinch the dental floss and pull it taut – so there isn’t any slack in the middle 5cm section.

This will make it much easier for you to manipulate and slide between your teeth.

Step 3: Guide the floss between your teeth

Now you’re ready to start flossing.

Using a ‘rocking’ motion that goes up and down (rather than backwards and forwards), guide the floss between two teeth and move it slowly up towards the gumline – gently scraping against the sides of each tooth as you go.

Try not to snap the dental floss. And avoid pushing it up too forcefully, as this can sometimes hurt the gums and cause bleeding.

Step 4: Curve the floss

Once you reach the gum line, curve the dental floss so it presses tightly against the side of the tooth – essentially forming a ‘C’ shape.

Work the floss back and forth between the gums and tooth (around 8-10 strokes), to break apart any plaque. Then, gently scrape the side of the tooth from top to bottom.

Repeat this process on the opposite side.

Step 5: Continue around the mouth

As you move from one tooth to the next, unroll a fresh section of dental floss from the middle finger on one hand, whilst rolling the ‘used’ section of floss onto the other.

To avoid missing any teeth, try to start at the top and work your way from left to right. Then repeat this on the bottom. And don’t forget to do the back of the very last tooth (and any that border empty spaces).

Get one-to-one advice from our dental hygienists

Still not convinced that you’re flossing correctly?

The best option may be to pop into our practice.

Appointments with our dental hygienists are available to absolutely everyone – including members, non-members and even patients who receive their routine dental care elsewhere. And they’re a fantastic opportunity to learn more about good oral hygiene habits.

Our experts can demonstrate exactly how to use dental floss, offering tips and advice on the best, most effective technique. And to get you off to a great start, they’ll also perform a full ‘scale and polish’, professionally cleaning your teeth and removing any stubborn and difficult-to-reach plaque.

To book yours, simply use our online booking system and choose a time and date that works for you. Or if you have any questions – about flossing your teeth or the dental hygiene treatments available at Kiln Lane Dental – you’re always welcome to get in touch.

Either call us on 01744 25776 or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and a member of the team will respond to your enquiry as soon as possible.

Turkey teeth

About to book that 2-in-1 dental holiday to Turkey?

Not so fast.

#TurkeyTeeth is a huge viral trend, that has led to thousands of Brits jetting off in search of a dream smile. But before you hop on the next Boeing 737 to Antalya, there’s something you should know…

That dream smile can very quickly spiral into a nightmare.

Although it may save you a few pounds in the short term, dental tourism is very rarely a good idea. Here we explore some of the main risks associated with dental treatment in Turkey, and why booking an appointment in the UK is always the better option.

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The risks you need to know about Turkey teeth

1. False advertisement

In most cases, patients are promised a set of ‘Turkey veneers’ – but this isn’t what they get.

Instead, they almost always receive crowns.

Crowns are typically used as they’re cheaper, faster and require much less dental skill. But to fit them into place, around 60-70% of the natural tooth’s enamel needs to be filed down to small stubs (compared to just 0.5mm for veneers). And this invasive procedure can lead to dire consequences.

Not only is it irreversible, there’s a chance the crowns will fail within just a few years, and you could lose your natural teeth in the near future. As a result, you’re likely to require a lifetime of expensive and painful remedial treatments, such as a root canal, dental implants or dentures – for absolutely no reason.

2. Unregulated dental clinics

In the UK, the practice of dentistry is fully regulated. All procedures must comply with the strict standards of conduct set by the General Dental Council (GDC), designed to safeguard patients.

But unfortunately, such regulations do not apply and are seldom upheld in Turkey.

The standard of care, level of cleanliness and quality of equipment are unlikely to match that in the UK. Procedures tend to be rushed with zero recovery time. And there have now become countless reports of Turkey teeth patients becoming seriously ill following their treatment.

In fact, according to the latest updated guidance from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, 22 Brits have died in Turkey since 2019 during a ‘medical tourism’ visit.

3. Additional complications

Aside from tooth loss (which is a pretty severe complication!), other complications are likely, including:

intense long-lasting pain
excessive swelling
infections of the gums, sinuses and bones
exposed nerves and sensitivity, making it difficult to eat and drink
rotting teeth
issues with an uneven bite, leading to TMJD and migraines
ill-fitting ‘Lego teeth’, which are too big (or small) for the mouth

In a recent survey by the British Dentist Association, 95% of dentists reported they had examined patients with Turkey teeth. And 86% of those cases developed complications.

Irreversible treatment in Turkey may be available for a fraction of the price it would cost in the UK. But in the long run, the hidden follow-up costs for repair work often exceed £5000.

4. Poor aesthetic detail

Cutting corners rarely leads to the best results.

Dental treatment in Turkey may be conveniently fast – but there’s a reason for that.

Compared to UK veneers, which are crafted by a skilled lab technician, the crowns used in Turkey are machine-made. As a result, they tend to lack detail. They also tend to be fastened in a row rather than individually – which typically creates a fake, dazzlingly bright and one-dimensional look.

Far from the natural-looking, pearly-white smile you dreamed of!

Cancel your flight and call Kiln Lane

We appreciate how tempting it can be to go overseas for cut-price treatment. But whilst it may seem like a good deal in the short term, it can (and usually does!) lead to serious oral health complications that cannot be reversed. And once you factor in the cost of further treatments, it’s often more expensive in the long run.

The reality of #TurkeyTeeth is rarely as simple or successful as it appears on TikTok. It’s certainly nothing to smile about. Be aware of the risks and keep in mind – safer, less invasive treatment alternatives are available at dental clinics in the UK, including at Kiln Lane Dental.

We currently offer both composite bonding and veneers, both of which achieve fantastic results with very minimal changes to your natural tooth enamel. And you can trust our team to protect your welfare, advise on the best option for you and carry out work to the highest standards.

For advice on how to achieve your dream smile – without resorting to dental treatment in Turkey – give the friendly team at our St Helens dental practice a call. You’re welcome to contact us any time on 01744 25776. Or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and we’ll respond as soon as possible with further information.

How to brush your teeth

Brushing your teeth.

You’ve done it every day since you were tall enough to see in the mirror. It’s something you do on autopilot, as part of your daily routine. Something you’ve had a lot of practice at over the years. So you’d assume, by now, you’re pretty good at it?

Unfortunately not.

In fact, most people are pretty bad at it – and their brushing technique could certainly do with some improvement. Which may explain why the phrase ‘How to brush your teeth’ is typed into Google around 1800 times every single month – in the UK alone.

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As a leading family dentist in St Helens, we treat every generation – from tiny babies and toddlers through to adults and seniors – and we advise the same technique for everyone.

Here are a few tips from our dental hygiene experts.

Brush up on the basics and ensure you’re brushing those pearly whites properly.

5 tips to brush your teeth like a pro

Choose your time wisely

Rule no.1 – never brush your teeth immediately after breakfast.

Breakfast foods are notoriously high in sugars and acids. These can cause a pH imbalance in your mouth. And if you brush too soon – before it’s had a chance to neutralise – you risk damaging the enamel. So, after you’ve finished your avocado on toast, it’s best to wait at least 30 minutes.

In the evening, the best time to brush is just before you go to bed. That way, the toothpaste left over will remain on your teeth and protect them overnight – when saliva production is at its lowest.

Keep it dry

Dry brushing is the recommended technique for both adults and children.

It’s simple – just don’t add water.

As tempting as it can be to wet your toothbrush under the tap, this will only dilute the fluoride in your toothpaste and make it much harder for it to do its job. To get the best ‘preventative’ results, always apply your toothpaste directly onto a dry brush and resist that urge to rinse it first.

Pea-sized is perfect

Most people tend to use lots of toothpaste. The more, the merrier – right? Wrong.

All you need is a pea-sized amount – no more, no less.

For both adults and children, it’s important to use a fluoride toothpaste, which contains at least 1350ppm (parts per million) of fluoride. But as long as you’re using the correct brushing technique and can cover the entire surface area of your teeth and gum line, a small blob is more than enough.

The only exception to this is for children aged 3 and under, who only require a tiny smear of toothpaste on their baby toothbrush.

Brush at 45˚

Forget about the just-put-in-your-mouth-and-look-busy method.

There’s a correct way to brush your teeth.

Insert your toothbrush at about a 45˚ angle to your gums. Then, use a gentle circular motion and brush back and forth – in short (tooth-wide) strokes – to remove plaque and debris.

Work your way around your mouth tooth by tooth. And remember to tackle both the outer and inner surfaces of your teeth and the gum line. Make sure you get to the back molars, as well as the upper chewing surfaces – as food can very easily get trapped in these areas and is easy to miss.

Continue for a minimum of 2 minutes. And try not to brush too hard! This is a common mistake, but it can be very damaging. Applying too much pressure – especially with a firmer-bristled brush – will not only cause trauma to the soft tissue of the gums, but can also wear away your enamel over time.

Don’t rinse

Once your 2 minutes are up and you’ve finished brushing, simply spit out the excess toothpaste.

You should never rinse your mouth with water immediately after brushing. Again, this will wash away or dilute the concentrated fluoride that you’ve left behind and reduce its preventative effects.

Just rinse your toothbrush under the tap, store it in an upright position and allow it to fully air dry.

Get one-to-one advice at our family dental practice

Want to be confident that you’re brushing your teeth correctly?

The best option is to pop into our St Helens dental practice.

As a leading family dentist in St Helens, we offer routine check-ups for all ages – including adults and children. During which, we can assess your overall oral health, identify any issues that have arisen due to poor brushing techniques and provide tailored advice and tips on how to improve.

Our team of dental hygienists can also provide a range of professional teeth cleaning treatments. All of which are quick and painless, and a great way to bolster your teeth cleaning routine – ensuring you maintain a happy, healthy and bright smile.

To book an appointment, simply use our online booking system and choose a time and date that works for you. Or if you have any questions – about how to brush your teeth properly or the family dental care available at our practice – you’re always welcome to get in touch.

Either call us on 01744 25776 or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and a member of the team will respond to your enquiry as soon as possible.

How long does composite bonding last?

Composite bonding.

It’s the fast way to improve the appearance of your smile. The results are certainly very impressive, creating a genuine ‘wow’ moment for most patients.

But the question is, do they last?

Costing £200 – £300 per tooth, on average, bonding is a big investment. So before going ahead, it’s natural to want to know – just how much bang do you get for your buck? Is composite bonding a temporary fix? Or are the effects long-term?

The average lifespan of composite bonding

Composite bonding may be described as a ‘speedy’ solution, used for a wide range of tooth flaws and imperfections. However, that doesn’t mean it compromises on quality.

Made from an extremely durable resin, bonding is designed to create a long-lasting smile. On average, it boasts a lifespan of 5-7 years. But this can vary slightly from patient to patient. And the longevity of your own composite bonding will depend on several factors, including:

Its location

Bonding on the front surface of the teeth – compared to the back or side – is significantly more exposed. And as such, it can be more vulnerable to damage and discolouration.

The health of the tooth underneath

Generally speaking, teeth that are stronger and healthier are able to hold onto the composite much better – and for much longer. Before starting, our dentists will check the overall condition of your natural teeth. If they feel there’s too much damage to the existing enamel for bonding to be effective, an alternative treatment may be recommended.

Your lifestyle and habits

Composite resin isn’t quite as strong as your tooth’s natural enamel. Therefore, some lifestyle choices – such as not looking after your teeth properly or consuming sugary foods – and habits such as nail biting can, in some cases, wear down the resin prematurely.

How to care for your composite bonding

One of the main benefits of composite bonding is that it’s low maintenance. You don’t need to change your daily routine or take any special steps to maintain the resin. However, to ensure the results last for the full 5-7 years, it’s important to maintain good oral health and hygiene. You should:

Brush twice daily

This goes without saying.

To keep your composite bonding in the best possible condition, be sure to brush your teeth twice a day (for two minutes). Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush and choose a non-abrasive toothpaste that contains an adequate level of fluoride (1350-1500ppm).

Ideally, you should also floss regularly using the correct flossing technique.

Regularly visit the dentist

Professional cleaning with a dental hygienist will help your composite bond to stay clean and unstained, maximising it’s lifespan – so we recommend visiting at least once or twice a year.

It’s also important to book regular check-ups with your dentist.

Not only does this allow issues with your bonding (if any) to be fixed in the early stages, but habits (such as nail biting, teeth grinding etc.) – that could affect the condition of your resin – can also be detected. And we can advise on how to prevent further damage going forward.

Avoid tooth-staining food and drink

Just like enamel, composite bonding resin is susceptible to staining.

As such, it’s a good idea to avoid food and drinks that can stain – including tea, coffee, red wine, curry etc. – for at least 48 hours after having the procedure. Following this period, if you do consume these foods and drinks, try to have a glass of water immediately after.

Kick the bad habits

It’s possible for the composite resin to chip or break when placed under pressure. Therefore, you should try to avoid chewing or biting down on anything particularly hard or sharp – such as ice cubes, pen lids, fingernails etc. – as much as possible.

If applicable, we’d also advise that you quit smoking.

Not only are cigarettes (and other tobacco products) detrimental to your general and oral health, they can also have an adverse effect on the condition of your composite bonding – and over time, could potentially reduce their lifespan.

Want to know more about composite bonding in St Helens?

More information on this popular restorative treatment can be found on our website and in our previous blog ‘Why should I choose composite bonding?’. But if you have any questions – about how long composite bonding will last, whether it’s the right option for you, or anything else – please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.

We’re highly skilled and experienced in this area and are always happy to help.

Simply book your initial consultation. During this consultation, we can assess your needs, check the condition of your teeth and gums, and advise on whether composite bonding is a suitable option and worthwhile investment for you.

To book an appointment, you’re welcome to call us at any time on 01744 25776. Or for a general query, send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and we’ll respond as soon as possible.

National Smile Month 2022

It’s National Smile Month!

Organised by the Oral Health Foundation, this year’s campaign runs from 16^th May to 16^th June and is aimed at shining a light on inequalities within dental health care. The theme is ‘Everyone deserves a healthy smile’ – and here at Kiln Lane Dental, we couldn’t agree more.

Did you know, one of the main reasons why people struggle to maintain their oral health is due to financial difficulties? Research has shown that 1 in 3 (36%) UK adults are willing to sacrifice their dental visits to save money. And approximately 2 in 3 (59%) 18-24 year olds freely admit their financial inability to look after their teeth and mouth.

As the cost of living crisis starts to bite, this issue is only likely to get worse.

But what if we said, good dental care doesn’t have to break the bank. It’s perfectly possible to maintain your oral health whilst sticking to a budget. You just need the right tips and tricks.

How to maintain dental health on a budget

Visit the dentist regularly

For anyone looking to limit their expenditure, this may sound counterintuitive. The more times you visit the dentist, of course, the more you will need to spend.

But as the saying goes, prevention is better than cure.

Bi-annual routine check-ups can actually save you a lot of cash in the long run. Not only are they fairly easy to budget for, any problems can be detected in the early stages. Which means, you’re less likely to need complex and expensive(!) restorative treatments, such as crowns and fillings.

Opt for a dental care plan

Many practices now offer dental care plans. These allow you to book regular appointments – therefore keeping on top of your oral health – and can work out significantly cheaper than taking the ‘pay as you go’ route. Making them a great option for those on a budget!

Here at Kiln Lane Dental, our adult membership currently costs just £14.95 a month. This entitles you to multiple routine check-ups and hygiene appointments with our dentists in St Helens, as well as a range of other benefits – and, over time, the plan can lead to fantastic savings.

Invest in an electric toothbrush

These days, electric toothbrushes are surprisingly inexpensive.

Take, for example, the Icy Bear Sonic Whitening Toothbrush – professionally developed by our principal dentist, Dr Hanna Miraftab. This cutting-edge model is available for just £59.99. Lasting for 5 years on average, it’s a worthwhile investment that offers excellent value for money.

An electric toothbrush can make a huge difference to your oral health. Not only will it remove more plaque than a manual version, it will deliver a deeper daily clean – and, as such, is one of the easiest ways to prevent severe issues (and the expensive treatments needed to fix them!).

Turn off the tap

Leave the tap running whilst brushing?

Don’t worry, you’re not the only one. Most people are guilty of it. But if you’re attempting to reduce (or at least minimise) your monthly bills, it’s worth being a bit more mindful. Not only can turning the tap off significantly cut down your water waste, it can also save you a fair sum of money.

To put things into perspective: if a family of four left the tap running whilst brushing their teeth, over their lifetime, they’d waste more water than it takes to fill an Olympic swimming pool. And it would cost them approximately £8000 for the pleasure!

If you’re on a tight budget, it’s the little things that can help the most. And this tiny change to your daily routine could lead to noticeable savings.

Visit our affordable dentists in St Helens

From choosing the right toothbrush to having a regular check-up, maintaining your oral health doesn’t have to come with a big price tag.

At Kiln Lane Dental, we may be a private practice and regarded as one of the leading dentists in St Helens – but we strive to offer affordable dentistry that is accessible to everyone. Our standard rates are highly competitive, and we offer all patients a free no-obligation consultation – in which we will assess your smile and discuss the dental care plans available.

It’s true – everyone deserves a healthy smile, regardless of the health of their bank balance! So this National Smile Month, why not get in touch and book your first appointment? You can either call us on 01744 25776 or use our online booking system to choose a date and time that works for you.

If you have any questions – or would like further advice on how to look after your teeth on a budget – you’re also welcome to message us via social media or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk. A member of the team will respond as soon as possible.

Dental care at Easter – a guide for all the family

‘Tis the season of delicious chocolate and, here at Kiln Lane Dental, we can’t wait for a heavenly delivery from the Easter bunny! But let’s face it – as yummy as those egg-shaped sweet treats may be, they can also be bad news for your oral health.

Sugar is one of the main causes of tooth decay in the UK, particularly in children – and unfortunately, chocolate eggs are packed full of it. So to help minimise the damage, here we’ve rounded up a few tips on how to look after your teeth this Easter.

Read on and enjoy the chocolatey goodness with a clear conscience.

3 tips to take eggs-tra special care of your teeth

1. Choose your confectionary carefully

Not all chocolate is created equal.

With regards to dental care, dark chocolate is by far your best bet. Not only does it contain less sugar than milk and white, it also has a high percentage of cocoa – which some studies have shown can actually help to fight cavities, plaque and tooth decay.

The closer the confectionary is to the cacao bean, the better. So our advice is to look for an Easter egg with low sugar content (6-8g per serving) and a cocoa concentration of 70% or above.

If you’re not a fan of the bitter taste, a milk chocolate egg at the top end of the cocoa scale – around the 40-60% mark – is the next best option. But be sure to leave white varieties on the supermarket shelf. Made from sugar, cocoa butter and milk, white chocolate isn’t really chocolate at all. It contains zero cocoa and is the worst culprit in terms of its impact on dental health.

2. Eat chocolate en masse

Don’t take this point too literally. We’re not encouraging you to make yourself sick with over-indulgence. But it seems, ‘Don’t eat it all at once!’ is really poor advice.

Every time you tuck into something sugary, the bacterium in your mouth reacts with the sugar and produces harmful acid – that can weaken the enamel and lead to erosion and cavities. It takes your saliva around 30 minutes to neutralise this acid. So if you wait half an hour, then eat another sugary snack, the whole process starts again.

That’s why one of the best dental care tips for Easter is to be a greedy guts. Eating your chocolate eggs ‘all at once’ – preferably at a normal mealtime – is much better for your dental health.

3. Limit the damage

It may seem counterintuitive, but you should never clean your teeth immediately after eating a sweet treat. The acid produced by the sugar softens the enamel and, if you brush, this can wear the enamel away – doing more harm than good in the long run.

It’s best to wait at least 30 minutes before reaching for the toothbrush. This should be plenty of time for your saliva to neutralise the harmful acids. And in the meantime, drinking water and chewing sugar-free gum is a good way to stimulate saliva flow and wash away any remaining food debris or bacteria.

Prioritise dental care this Easter

Easter is the perfect excuse to enjoy your favourite choccy – and that’s fine with us. We’ll certainly be doing the same thing! But to minimise its impact on your oral health, be sure to keep our dental care tips in mind and protect your enamel from that pesky sugar.

If you – or the kids – do go a little OTT on the chocolate eggs, why not book yourself in for a check-up after the Easter holidays? As a leading family dental clinic in St Helens, we can offer both routine and emergency appointments for both adults and children – whether you’re a member or not.

To arrange a time and date that suits you, either give us a call on 01744 25776 or use our online system to see what’s currently available. Or if you’d like further advice on how to look after your teeth properly this Easter, you’re always welcome to contact us. Simply send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and one of our in-house specialists will get back to you.