Do you worry about bad breath?

Here are a few helpful tips to ensure your breath stays as fresh as possible at all times!

1. Change your toothbrush
We recommend a new toothbrush at least every 3 months.  Bacteria build up on toothbrushes and using a worn out toothbrush will not only be less effective at removing those 'bad breath' causing bugs but it may actually increase their numbers in your mouth!

2. Scrape your Tongue
Using a tongue scraper/tongue cleaner can dramatically improve your oral health and consequently your breath.  Bacteria accumulate on the tongue and can cause bad breath.  By using a tongue cleaner everyday you will minimise the bacteria and improve your breath!

3. Stay hydrated
Good hydration helps improve saliva production which is your body natural defence against bad breath causing bacteria.  As well as the many health benefits drinking more water will go along way to improving your breath.

4. Floss Regularly
By flossing or using inter-dental brushes you will remove the bacteria between the teeth where you toothbrush can't reach thus reducing the number of bacteria and therefore making your breath fresher!

5. Chew Gum
Sugar free chewing gum is a great way to keep your breath fresh and may also help keep your teeth healthy.  Chewing gum stimulates saliva production which helps protect the teeth from bacteria.

6. Mouthwash
Using a mouthwash can help with bad breath, there are a number of specialist products on the market that are specifically aimed at improving bad breath.  Be careful to avoid those containing alcohol.

7. See your Hygienist
Regular hygiene visits and following your hygienists advice is the best defence against bad breath and will definitely keep your breath fresher!

Will I have to wear metal braces?

NO!  Most cosmetic straightening options use clear technology to make them as discreet and as invisible as possible.

How long will my treatment take?

Cosmetic straightening usually takes between 6 weeks and 6 months, how fast the treatment works will depend on how much movement is needed and in some cases how compliant you are with wearing any removable appliances will determine the speed of treatment.  If you are having veneers you can expect the process to take between 4-6 weeks.

Will it hurt to have my teeth straightened?

Cosmetic straightening treatments work by gently moving the teeth.  This process is not painful at all however some patients do report minor discomfort whilst their mouth adapts to an appliance.  Veneers require a more invasive approach so you will need to have an injection however this should be relatively painless.

Will my teeth stay straight after treatment?

ANY orthodontic treatment needs to be retained.  When teeth move away from their ‘natural’ position they will gradually drift back into place if no retainer is worn.  All our cosmetic straightening treatments benefit from retention whether in the form of a removable appliance or a bonded retainer that is fixed to the back of your teeth.  If you stop using a retainer your teeth will relapse and your straight smile will be lost.  Veneers generally last around 8-10 years if cared for correctly after which you may need to replace them.

How long do I need to wear a retainer once my treatment is complete?

If you wear a removable retainer, this is usually worn full time for 6 months, every night for 6 months and every other night thereafter or for as long as you want your teeth to stay straight.  You can also opt for a bonded retainer that is fixed to the back of your front teeth, that way you never forget to wear it!

How can I pay for my treatment?

Cosmetic straightening is very affordable compared to other cosmetic dental procedures.  We can offer 0% finance (subject to status) to help patients spread the cost of treatment over 6, 10 or 12 months.  We are also happy to stage payments over the course of treatment for those patients that don’t want to take out finance.