Do Bad Teeth Affect My Career?

People say that first impressions matter when looking for a job. The better you present yourself to your employer, the higher your chances of being hired. Apparently, the same line of thinking applies to teeth.

oral healthStudies show that having good teeth not only makes you more employable but makes you more eligible for promotion and higher pay, as well. On the other hand, bad teeth may cost you your job and your chances of getting a new one.

The link between teeth and your job

A study by Bupa revealed the connection between teeth and job prospects. Among the 2000 UK respondents, around 67% of them say a good smile is an important asset at work. About 24% perceive having better teeth as a factor in increasing their chances of getting a promotion.

Researchers found that teeth might affect impressions and relationships at work, as well. More than two-fifths or 42% find people with healthy-looking teeth more authoritative. Whilst 54% of the respondents agreed that a smile from their boss is one of the best forms of motivation.

Other studies note that people with nice teeth and a pretty smile tend to be smart and trustworthy, making them ideal employees. Some employers prefer people with a nice smile because they appear meticulous and diligent, judging from the good state of their oral health.

Bad teeth = No Job?

Whilst good teeth increase your employability, the study showed that unhealthy teeth affect job prospects, work performance and confidence. Almost 37% of the respondents believe that these can harm an individual’s employability and around 33% feel these can hold back a person’s career progress.

In addition, 42% of respondents found working with colleagues with bad teeth distracting and 29% admitted it affects their confidence in a co-worker’s ability to do their job. Around 28% do not smile at work due to lack of confidence. About 27% even considered getting their teeth ‘fixed’ to improve self-confidence at work.

How your teeth look like can make or break your career. Proper oral care that comes with dental appointments is necessary to land a job and get a promotion. Harley Street dentists is your company to call when it comes to improving your teeth and smile. They provide dental implants, teeth whitening and other treatments that will help your career. Find out more about dentists in Harley Street.

What To Expect After Teeth Whitening Treatments

People take measures to ensure their teeth stay in good shape, going as far as enduring regular dental appointments. That is why they are more careful and sceptical of dental treatments like teeth whitening.

teeth whitening treatmentsDentists in Harley Street value your teeth and the importance of knowing about dental treatments. That is why they are giving you an idea about things to expect after undergoing teeth whitening treatments.

Gum and Teeth Sensitivity

Cosmetic dental treatments may produce side effects for people with existing sensitive teeth and gums. Your gums and teeth might be reacting from the whitening agents. The pain or sensitivity should go away in a few days. If your discomfort continues, however, you might have to consult with your dentist for appropriate treatment.

Not as white as you think

Some people think that undergoing teeth whitening treatments can give them clear white smiles. Teeth whiteners do not always guarantee such results. The effect varies on the quantity of chemicals used and your teeth’s condition. The deeper the stain, the harder it is to restore your teeth’s colour. Dentists do not use more teeth whitening agents than the prescribed amounts as these might cause damage to your teeth. They do their best to give you a nice, white smile whilst considering your health and safety.

Lifestyle changes

You might have to make lifestyle changes after teeth whitening treatments. Your adjustment will be a bit more difficult if you smoke or drink regularly. Tobacco and spirits cause tooth stains and compromise your treatment. A diet full of sweets, heavy sauces, coffee, tea or other colourful food and drinks may cause tooth discolouration, as well.

Occasional dental visits

Teeth whitening treatments generally last long but they are not invincible. The duration of the effects depend on how well you take care of your teeth. Proper oral hygiene and diet help, but letting a dentist clean your teeth is still the best way to prolong the effects.

Whilst dental treatments can give you instant results, proper oral care post-treatment will still determine their effectiveness. If your teeth need a makeover, cosmetic dentists in Harley Street can help you improve and restore them to their former glory. They provide advice and dental treatments to keep your teeth in good condition. Contact us for more information about our services.

Everyday Habits Advised Against TMJ Disorder

The TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) connects the jaw to the temporal bones of the skull, allowing movement, such as talking, chewing and yawning. Any problem associated with this part of the face is called a TMJ disorder, wherein the patient experiences persistent pain and tenderness in the jaw area, ear and neck.

TMJ disorderIf you are suffering from this disorder, whether it was caused by an injury, stress or excessive teeth grinding, it will be safe for you to avoid these three everyday habits.

Chewing Gum

Chewing greatly involves the muscles surrounding the TMJ. If you chew on gum, you are driving these muscles into overdrive, flexing and relaxing them up to a hundred times per minute. This repetitive movement places excessive stress on your already sore and sensitive TMJ. Instead of gums, you may chew on sugar-free mints instead, but remember not to bite on them.

Taking Large Bites

Often, patients with TMJ disorder experience pain when opening their mouth wide to accommodate a large bite of food. This exertive movement overextends the TMJs, straining their muscles and tendons. We recommend you avoid food that requires opening the mouth too wide, such as burgers and sandwiches. Otherwise, cut them into smaller pieces.

Drinking Excessive Amount of Coffee and Tea

A TMJ disorder and a caffeine addiction do not go well together. Coffee is commonly associated with stress, known to increase the heart rate and blood flow. It also causes unconscious tensing of the muscles, those surrounding the TMJ included. Additionally, the effect of caffeine is associated with the development of bruxism, or involuntary night-time grinding, which is one of the leading causes of TMJ disorder.

Harley Street Dental Clinic offers treatments for TMJ disorder. These include Occlusal Splints, also known as bite guards. They relieve muscle tension and reduce compression of the inflamed jaw joints. We also manage the disease through a multi-disciplinary approach, such as physiotherapy, osteopathy and TMJ surgery. For enquiries about TMJ disorder and our list treatments, contact us today.

Post-Root Canal Ache and Other Reasons It Hurt

Dentistry is a medical field that is constantly advancing in terms of technology, making thing like root canal treatment significantly more successful than years past. As with all other medical treatment, however, complications may still occur. These little problems could be due to the body’s failure to adjust to the procedure or your shortcoming in terms of post-treatment maintenance.

root canal treatmentRoot canal treatments may be more advanced, but slight pain after the procedure is still a normal response. Expect the pain to be mild, your tooth tender to bite and your gum sensitive to touch. You can manage the ache by taking painkillers or avoiding the area when eating. It should subside after. If this is not the case, then:

Your Teeth Could Be Fractured

Expect teeth to be weak after treatment, especially considering how it suffered through the original damage or decay and through the access cavity that came as a result of the procedure. As they are weak, they could crack easily and cause you stressful amounts of pain.

Fractures could also necessitate another procedure: extraction. This all depends on the extent of the crack; if the pain or swelling post-treatment do not subside after a few weeks, it is best to consult with a trusted dental professional.

Your Dentist Could Have Failed

Despite the previously mentioned dental and technological advancements, there are still difficult cases that result in failed root canal treatments. To illustrate, tight, curved nerve canals and teeth are difficult to access. This could result in problems getting treatment completed because of the limited opening.

Other than trouble with the difficult teeth and opening, there have been reported cases of a dentist failing to find and clean all the canals inside your tooth. It could also be that the dentist failed to fill canals adequately. Both failures by your dentist could lead to weeks of throbbing pain and swelling.

Although possible, pain and complication are completely avoidable. Harley Street Dental Clinic is London’s leading centre of excellence for all things dental. You can trust us to perform the procedure efficiently and assist you in the process of recovery.

Contact us today for a dental practice you can trust.

Interesting Impressions About White Teeth

When considering prospective employees or lifetime partners, what do people look at first? Years ago, a pleasant face was the priority. Nowadays, white teeth take precedence over other physical attributes. White teeth increase your chances of finding a job or a partner, according to studies.

People with white teeth have better job opportunities

teeth whiteningPearly whites not only help you land a job, but also give you a leg up in your career. In a study by Dentalcompare, researchers found that white teeth created good impressions for employees. Fifty-eight percent of the experiment’s participants that underwent teeth whitening treatments were more likely to be hired. In addition, 53% of them received higher salary offers; 65% seemed to be more professional, and 61% looked more confident.

Another study proved white teeth as the key for being hired. A survey conducted by Strategy One revealed that 60% of respondents considered stained teeth as more detrimental to a job interview compared to pimples, poorly maintained nails or not wearing a suit. On the other hand, 57% of them were surprised to learn that having white teeth is more important than professional attire. Some people attribute stained teeth to laziness or carelessness, which bodes ill for a career.

People with white teeth are more dateable

White teeth increase your chances of finding love, as proven in a study about people involved in romantic first dates. After the teeth whitening treatments, 54% of participants became more desirable for further relationship, with 59% seen as more outgoing.

In contrast, researchers from universities of Leeds and Central Lancashire ranked oral conditions and found yellow teeth as the most unpopular to the opposite sex followed by widely spaced teeth. Apart from enhancing attractiveness, white teeth are a sign of good health, now a leading requirement for Brits looking for partners.

These studies highlight the importance of keeping your teeth white or at least clean. How you maintain your teeth has a significant impact on your career and love life. Cosmetic dentists in Harley Street can help you when it comes to stained teeth. We provide an array of teeth whitening treatments so you will have teeth and a smile that will attract prospective employers or that looker from accounting. Contact dentists in Harley Street to know more about their services.

Paediatric Dentistry

Children in the UK have some of the worst instances of tooth decay in the world. Half of eight year olds and a third of five year olds suffer from tooth decay, according to The 2013 Children’s Dental Health Survey for England, Wales and Northern Ireland. By the time children reach the age of 15, the percentage with tooth decay has risen to 46%.

childrens dentistryAlthough rates are falling compared with 10 years ago, they are still high. Good dental health at a young age increases the chances of good dental health for life, and children who regularly visit the dentist in their early years are much more likely to see it as a positive experience and nothing to be frightened of.

At Harley Street Dental Practice we care about great dental health for all the family and believe everyone deserves the very best treatment. We also believe prevention is far better than cure, and encourage parents bring their children in from the age of 12 months onwards, coinciding with when the first teeth start to appear.

We have a dedicated paediatric dentist, Professor Raman Bedi, who believes in building up a rapport and a relationship of trust with his young patients, talking to the patient as well as their parents. He leads our team of paediatric dentists, who offer a full range of children’s dental services, including an international childhood caries clinic to help children with extensive decay.

Links have been shown between untreated childhood decay and bigger health problems such as diabetes and heart disease, so ideally preventing but also treating any decay present is vital. Dr Bedi has developed the unique Bedi Oral Well-Being Score, available free to our patients in English and Arabic, and widely used by dentists and dental health educators around the world.

At the heart of our treatment is our firm belief that no child should have untreated cavities. We welcome new child patients of any age and believe we can help each one get the healthy mouth they deserve.

DIY Remedies Before Receiving Professional Emergency Dental Care

Unhealthy gums and teeth can hurt any given time unexpectedly. In some cases, a slight ache can rapidly advance into an unbearable pain, and the swelling into a full-scale infection. Healthy gums and teeth are not spared from this fate, as accidents can occur any time.

emergency dental careUnderstanding that sudden dental problems require immediate attention, Harley Street Dental Clinic offers 24-hour emergency care to address these problems immediately. In case it takes you a while to reach our clinic and you seek temporary relief, we suggest you do the following:

To reduce pain

In many cases, pain in the gums and the teeth are so severe that mere analgesics no longer have an effect. For effective relief, we recommend cold compress. This should numb the affected area and help alleviate a great share of the pain. You may use an ice pack, or a washcloth stuffed with ice cubes as an alternate option.

To relieve swelling

The problem with swelling is that the affected area can easily get infected after coming in contact with bacteria. To reduce some of the swelling and relieve any feeling of tightness, we advise you to apply a hot compress. To prevent bacteria from causing further infection, we recommend rinsing the mouth with warm water and salt.

To reduce bleeding

You have always been taught that to stop profuse bleeding, one must apply pressure on the wound. For bleeding teeth and gums, the same principle applies. A simple knocked out tooth or a small lesion in the gums can cause continuous bleeding, requiring you to take immediate action. Remember to wash the affected area with clean and warm water to prevent any bacteria from coming in contact with the wound and causing an infection. We advise against application of topical antibiotic, as this may worsen the condition.

For your convenience, Harley Street Dental Clinic is open six days a week, offering services from dental hygiene to oral surgery. Whether you have encountered an unfortunate accident, or your gingivitis has suddenly been aggravated, we suggest you visit our clinic immediately for treatment.

Whitening Treatment & the Habits that Ruin Your Teeth

Whilst many consider teeth whitening treatments as minor miracles for stained teeth, such methods do not guarantee long-term results. Your habits or activities may render them ineffective. So if you are recently done with one, you should lessen or avoid doing these things altogether:

Overusing teeth whiteners

teeth whiteningIf you think that using teeth whiteners after dental treatments produces better results, you might want to reconsider. Teeth whitening kits contain bleach and other strong chemicals that may weaken the enamel, harm your teeth and gums, causing the opposite to happen.

Avoid or lessen the use of commercial teeth whiteners after dental treatments. Use them only upon a dentist’s advice, and only in prescribed amounts, as well. Excessive use of teeth whiteners may increase your teeth’s vulnerability against germs, causing more stains.

Consuming teeth-staining diet

Your teeth will become sensitive after a whitening treatment, leaving them vulnerable to stain-causing bacteria. Dentists suggest that you wait for at least 36-48 hours for the whitening agents to take effect before consuming teeth-staining food or drinks.

Avoid food or drinks with a strong colour, including coffee, tea, sauces, mustard, cranberry juice and red wine for several days until the open pores in the tooth close. Rinse your mouth with water right after consuming dark food and liquids for long-lasting results.

Poor Lifestyle

Certain habits may reduce and remove the effect of your teeth whitening efforts. Avoid smoking post-treatment as it causes dark stains to linger in your teeth. Drinking alcohol leaves your mouth dry, allowing stain-causing bacteria to thrive so try to avoid it, as well.

Teeth whitening treatments last for a few years. Overusing teeth whiteners, consuming teeth-staining food or drinks, and poor lifestyle, however, may cause the effects to disappear early. Maintenance is essential to make the effects of your whitening treatment last longer. Cosmetic dentists in Harley Street conduct teeth whitening, dental veneer installations and other treatments for a brighter smile. We can give you advice and assistance, ranging from treatments to maintenance of your pearly whites. Contact us for more information on our wide selection of dental treatments.

Missing Teeth Can Make You Look Old Before Your Time

The expression, ‘you are getting old before your time’, usually applies when people cannot let go of old habits. Little do they realise that it is possible to look old at a young age. Surprisingly, it is not the wrinkles or age lines that cause it, but the early loss of teeth.

dentists in Harley StreetUnderstanding the relationship between tooth loss and early aging will help you understand the importance of having a complete set of teeth.

Tooth loss and early aging

Teeth serve a variety of purposes apart from aiding your digestion. These keep your facial muscles and bones intact. Tooth loss causes loss of alveolar bone, one that surrounds and supports teeth. You lose facial bone and muscle support for every tooth you lose.

Studies show that the bone experiences about 25% decrease in width after losing your teeth in the first year and an overall 4-millimetre decrease in height thereafter. Without the mass your teeth provides, your mouth and cheeks will sink and shrink upwards. A few teeth gaps may seem insignificant. Too many gaps, however, may change the way you look forever.

It is not just your face but your lifestyle that will change, as well. You will find it hard to chew, speak or smile if you lose your teeth. From a mere inconvenience, tooth loss becomes a major hindrance.

Dealing with premature aging

Given the consequences, dentists in Harley Street emphasise the need for a complete set of teeth, be it through natural or artificial means. They suggest flossing and brushing your teeth once and twice a day, respectively. They recommend a diet filled with calcium, fruits and vegetables instead of sugary food and drinks, as well. Avoid clenching and grinding your teeth to prevent early wear and tear.

Tooth loss changes your appearance and lifestyle if you refuse to do anything about it. Visit a dentist for advice and assistance in proper oral care. Cosmetic dentists in Harley Street know how to save your teeth from damage and discoloration. We provide dental implants, bridges, crowns and other dental treatments to help maintain and improve your face and smile. Call us or visit our office for more information on treatments for tooth loss.

Take Care of Your Porcelain Veneers Like They Take Care of Your Teeth

Porcelain veneers have led some of the biggest trends in the cosmetic dental practice. All over the world, these thin restorative laminates have reshaped and repaired all types of teeth deformations, such as chipping, cracks and misalignment. After placement, caring for them, therefore, is not to be overlooked. To make your veneers last as long as possible, exercise caution and follow these simple rules:

Blush and floss regularly

porcelain veneersWe often advise our patients to treat their veneers just as they would their original teeth, and that includes diligent and thorough brushing and flossing. This is to keep the porcelain as plaque-free as possible.

Tooth decay will not form on the veneer’s surface, but it can develop on the natural part of the tooth, including the structure surrounding the edges of the veneer. If plaque accumulates on the tooth’s surface, gums surrounding it may recede. As a consequence, a change in the cosmetic appearance can be the reason for a replacement.

Avoid putting pressure on the veneer

While they offer incredible durability, extreme biting pressures can be harmful to your veneers. Habits, such as nail biting or holding objects between the teeth can put direct pressure on the veneer, putting it at risk of breaking and coming off. Moreover, avoid using the teeth to rip open packets and food bags, as this can also result in breaking.

If you have a condition called Bruxism, more known as involuntary teeth grinding, it is advisable to wear a night time oral appliance or a mouth guard.

Minimise vices to prevent discolouration

Veneers restore and improve the sight of your teeth, but their placement requires some amount of sacrifice to maintain its optimal appearance. Drinking and smoking have to be reduced, and better yet, eliminated. Although veneer surface offers high resistance to staining, regular or excessive exposure to tea, wine, coffee and tobacco products is damaging to both natural teeth and veneers.

With enough discipline and vigilance in your lifestyle and diet, coupled with regular visits to the dentist, your porcelain veneers are bound to last.

For more inquiries about porcelain veneer placement, care and process, contact Harley Street Dental Clinic today.