News

For the last month, dentists, doctors, schools and community organisations across the UK have been working together to promote National Smile Month, an important annual campaign to promote healthy teeth for life. This year’s event may have just come to an end, however the message of National Smile Month is all about doing the best we can to keep our mouths and teeth healthy all year round. It’s never too late to get on board. Take action to give you and your family the best possible start when it comes to your precious teeth. So what has this year’s National Smile month been all about and why is the message so important? Let’s take a closer look.

National Smile Month – What is it?

National Smile month is organised every year by UK oral health charity The Oral Health Foundation. The main objective is to raise public awareness of important health issues and make a positive difference to the oral health of the UK.

The organisation encourages dentists, dental practices and healthcare professionals throughout the UK to get involved and help to engage communities, drawing attention to three key messages which together can help us develop and maintain a healthy mouth all year round:

• Brush your teeth last thing at night and on at least one other occasion with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Reduce the amount of sugary foods and drinks you consume.

• Get regular dental checkups – as often as your dentist recommends.

By promoting these simple but important lifestyle decisions, it is hoped that the campaign will encourage adults and children across the UK to improve their oral health for the long term – and to have fun doing it as well.

By working together, organisations around the UK can help educate, motivate and communicate positive oral health messages and improve the quality of smiles all around the country.

Is National Smile Month Just for Children?

No – National Smile Month is for adults and children alike. It is for anybody who has an interest in health and wellbeing. It’s purpose is to raise awareness of important health issues, and ultimately, help make a positive difference to the oral health of millions of people throughout the UK.

In particular, it is of relevance to parents and families to help ensure that children get their teeth off to the best possible start.

What is the Oral Health Foundation?

The Oral Health Foundation was founded in 1971. It was created with a mission to promote the preventive message that ‘Teeth are for Life’ as widely as possible to the public with the aim of improving the overall oral health of everyone.

An independent charity (not for profit) and one of the largest of its kind, the Oral Health Foundation has now spent over 40 years providing expert, independent and impartial advice on all aspects of oral health directly to those who need it most, improving oral health and wellbeing around the world.

To achieve its mission of addressing the inequalities which exist in oral health, changing people’s lives for the better, the organisation works closely with UK and European governments, dental and health professionals, manufacturers, the dental trade, national and local agencies and of course, most importantly, the public.

How Can I Embrace National Smile Month?

As well as adopting healthy eating habits and brushing teeth regularly, one of the easiest ways to embrace the key message of National Smile Month is to make sure that your family’s dental check ups are up to date. It can be hard to find time with so many different things to worry about, but the benefits of seeing your dentist at the right frequency cannot be There’s no need to worry – dentists understand just how hard keeping appointments can be.

Here at Sharoe Green Dental Practice in Preston, we offer the very best in friendly and professional dental care. To book an appointment now or to enquire about becoming a member, call us today on 01772 718853 or click here to find more contact details online.

This Friday, one of the biggest changes ever made in the laws protecting the personal data of individuals comes into effect. GDPR, or the General Data Protection Regulation in full, is a new law that supersedes the current Data Protection Act and serves to greatly enhance consumers rights when it comes to their personal data and the way companies collect, use and store it. It also places a greater emphasis on privacy and security. In order to be fully compliant with the new regulations, we’ve made a few updates to our website and would like to take this opportunity to ensure that our patients are aware of some of the key ways in which we are ensuring that the best possible standards are met.

1. New Cookies Notice

When you visit a website for the first time, it is normal to see a message pop up that informs you the website uses cookies and asks if you accept this. Cookie notices were first made a requirement under an EU law introduced in 2011 and have been widely adopted as best practice since then. However, under GDPR there is a need to update the notification to ensure it meets the new standards. It is also necessary in some cases to refresh consent. As a result, you will see a new notice requesting your consent to cookies appears when you visit our website that you may not have seen before.

Cookies are messages that web servers pass to your web browser when you visit internet sites. They can be used to personalise your experience and record certain information such as pages viewed. Your browser stores each message in a small file. The vast majority of cookies are entirely safe, anonymous and nothing to worry about, however all websites have a duty to inform the visitor.

2. Updated Digital Privacy Policy

Another key change under the GDPR legislation is more specific privacy policy statements that cover different aspects of privacy. Although we’ve always made our privacy policy available to our website visitors, we’ve also added a new Digital Privacy Policy that gives more detailed information regarding how our website stores and uses your data. Our Privacy Policy, Digital Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy are all available in the footer of the page. We encourage visitors to familiarise themselves with these should they wish to.

3. SSL Encryption

The New GDPR legislation makes it mandatory for companies to ensure that website visitors are protected from hacking and data leaks. One way that this can be achieved is to ensure that the website is protected by what is known as SSL encryption, which means that any data shared between you and the website or vice versa cannot be intercepted. Here at Sharoe Green Dental Practice, we’ve been secure for a long time, however we feel that it is important for our visitors to know that they are safe.

SSL encryption is recognised by your web browser and allows it to show the green padlock icon accompanied by the prefix ‘https’ in the address bar.

To book an appointment with Sharoe Green Dental Practice of Preston now or to enquire about becoming a member, please don’t hesitate to call us on 01772 718753. We look forward to hearing from you!

Missing teeth can have a big impact on our lives. As well as causing significant problems for our remaining teeth and posing a risk to oral hygiene, they can also have a huge effect on our confidence and self-esteem. Dental implants are often an excellent choice for those who are missing anything from a single tooth to multiple teeth. They offer a long term, natural looking solution to restore your smile. Many patients, however, are unsure if dental implants are the right choice for them. In this article, we answer some of the most common questions we hear from our patients.

Why should I replace missing teeth?

For many people, the difference in appearance when you have missing teeth is reason enough to get them replaced. Missing teeth can undermine your confidence and self-esteem. In some cases, this can have a big impact on your lifestyle, making you reluctant to smile or show your teeth. This can even lead to some people avoiding speaking in public and in some cases even avoiding eating with friends and colleagues. The impact on confidence can also make people reluctant to apply for promotions and new jobs.

It is also very important to think about the potential longer term consequences of having missing teeth. When we chew with our natural teeth, this stimulates the bone in our jaw and helps to keep it strong and healthy. Without a tooth, this sensation is lost, and the bone can begin to weaken and recede. One effect of this is to cause the appearance of early aging. Another problem is that the weakness can spread, meaning you are at increased risk of losing other teeth. Dental impants are a popular and reliable solution to all of these problems.

How do dental implants work?

Dental implants work by replacing the root of the missing tooth or teeth with a new, artificial root. This is made from titanium, a biocompatible material that is able to bond with the natural bone. This makes it an incredibly strong foundation which the new tooth, called a crown, can be mounted on.

Connecting the implant itself and the crown is a component known as an abutment. Once these three components have been fitted, you will be left with a smile that feels and looks completely natural. Most people will never be able to tell your replacement teeth apart, leaving you free to enjoy making the most out of life.

How long do dental implants last?

Here at Sharoe Green Dental Practice, we use Straumann dental implants. Straumann are a global leader in implant dentistry, with over 8 million Straumann implants placed worldwide. Long-term surveys have shown that Straumann implants have a very high survival rate. For absolute peace of mind, our expert dental nurses are trained in Straumann Dental Implantology nursing.

With high quality implants, the real key to how long they last is how well you look after them. As long as you maintain a good oral hygiene regime, follow any advice from your dentist and attend regular check ups at the advised frequency, the likelihood is that your dental implants will last for years to come – in many cases for a lifetime.

I’m interested in getting dental implants – what should I do next?

If you have missing teeth and would like to talk to the experts at Sharoe Green Dental Practice in Preston about dental implants, give the friendly, award winning team a call now on 01772 718753, or alternatively click here to view more options to contact us.

You don’t have to be a screen celebrity to have shiny white teeth. No matter what your role in life, be it a hard working parent, established professional or even an aspiring entrepreneur, your smile says a lot about you and can play a major role in your self esteem, confidence and sense of well being. With the advanced teeth whitening treatments now available, it has never been easier or cheaper to get the smile of your dreams. So how does teeth whitening work and is it safe? In this article, we answer your most common questions.

Q: Why choose Professional Teeth Whitening?

Although it is now possible to purchase home teeth whitening kits online and on the high street, they rarely give the desired results and can often leave you feeling frustrated and out of pocket. Due to restrictions set by law, retail kits contain a much lower level of the active ingredients. In addition, they may not always be suitable for use by all patients.

Getting your teeth whitened by your dentist is a much better option. Not only can you be sure the chemicals are clinically guaranteed to be safe, the results are much more predictable. Because a higher level of active ingredients is allowed, professional teeth whitening is highly effective and gives lasting results – meaning you are sure to be satisfied with your investment.

Q: Is teeth whitening safe?

Provided that your teeth whitening is supervised by a qualified dentist, it is a very safe procedure. As well as ensuring the treatment is carried out correctly, the dentist will also conduct an initial examination to make sure that everything is order and that you are suitable for the treatment. A dentist will also ensure that your gums are fully protected during the process, reducing the risk and avoiding any discomfort.

Q: What is Philips Zoom! whitening

Philips Zoom! In studio power whitening is a tried and tested in surgery whitening treatment that is incredibly effective – as demonstrated by the millions of satisfied patients who have used it. First a dentist will conduct an initial consultation to make sure the treatment is suitable for you and to establish what outcome you can expect. The treatment will then continue as follows:

• A Dental Professional here at Sharoe Green will ensure your gums are protected with a special covering during the procedure
• A pH booster swab will be applied to your teeth, followed by our unique EU Compliant Zoom gel formula.
• The gel is activated using the WhiteSpeed lamp to break down stains
• After 4 x 15 minute sessions you will see visible results and be provided either our DayWhite or NiteWhite take-home kits to continue your whitening at home.

Q: Do you offer home whitening?

Yes. For patients who would prefer to whiten their teeth at home, we offer the White Beauty Dental Teeth Whitening System, a worldwide market leader in tooth whitening that is safe, easy to use and delivers great results. To help you get the best results, we will prepare custom fitted trays especially for you.

Q: How much does it cost?

Philips Zoom! In surgery power whitening costs just £395 with patients that are on our membership plan entitled to 20% off making it £316.

Home teeth whitening costs £150, with patients that are on our membership plan entitled to 20% off which is a great saving making the treatment £120.

Ready to unleash a shiny new smile? To book your consultation at Sharoe Green Dental Practice now, call us on Preston 01772 718753 or click here to book your appointment online.

If you have ever found yourself wondering what it would be like to have straighter teeth, then do not fear – you are far from alone. A significant percentage of UK adults are unhappy with the appearance of their teeth, and this can have many negative effects including a lack of confidence and low self-esteem, shyness, reluctance to smile and even sometimes a tendency to hide the mouth when speaking – all of which can have a real impact on not just your long term happiness and success, but also on your day to day life. Luckily, the majority of cases can be easily treated with Invisalign removable braces. So what is the Invisalign system, how does it work and what can you expect? Read on to learn more.

Invisalign – it’s never too late for straighter teeth

The philosophy behind Invisalign removable braces is simple – your life is always on the move, and your smile should be able to keep up. It was this principle that led to the creation of this innovative and discrete approach to adult teeth straightening that has now become a worldwide favourite among patients of all ages. Many adults do not realise that there is no age limit for getting your teeth straightened, whilst others avoid it because they do not wish to spend up to two years wearing the traditional metal braces often associated with teenagers, as well as suffering the discomfort and inconvenience that goes with them. Luckily, all these problems are eliminated by Invisalign, which uses a series of custom-made clear aligners to move your teeth little by little over a period of 12-18 months.

What’s special about Invisalign?

One of the biggest attractions of Invisalign aligners is that they are nearly invisible and typically hardly anyone notices that you’re wearing them – so you can get on with your personal and professional life without any distraction.

Because Invisalign aligners are removable, it is possible to eat and drink what you want during treatment by simply removing the aligners, meaning that there is no need to change your lifestyle. You can also remove the aligners to brush and floss as you normally would to maintain your normal oral hygiene routine.

Finally, unlike with traditional fixed braces, there are no metal brackets or wires. This means that in most cases less time is spent in your Invisalign Provider’s practice for adjustments – which can also help to reduce the cost.

So how exactly does Invisalign work?

Invisalign aligners move teeth gently through a series of carefully controlled movements. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign not only controls the amount of movement that each aligner delivers, but also the timing of the movement. So, at each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move, following the Invisalign treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system. The movements are all planned using a computer modeled treatment plan that takes advantage of advanced 3D computer-imaging technology.

Is Invisalign uncomfortable?

As with any dental treatment, different patients may have different experiences, but generally speaking because Invisalign uses a low force approach there is little or no discomfort in most cases. Some people may experience temporary, minor discomfort for a few days when they insert a new aligner at the beginning of each new stage of treatment, however this is normal and is typically described as a feeling of pressure. It’s a sign that the aligners are working and it usually goes away in a couple of days.

Can anybody have Invisalign?

Invisalign teeth straightening is suitable for the vast majority of adults, however your Invisalign approved dentist is the best person to advise you on your specific case. We would recommend booking an individual consultation that would allow your dentist to make sure that the treatment is suitable for you and demonstrate what results you can expect to achieve.

To find out how you can get the smile of your dreams with Invisalign removable braces, call the Platinum Elite team at Sharoe Green Dental Practice now on Preston 01772 718753 or alternatively click here to book an appointment online.

We will be open Wednesday 27th December 9am-4pm and Thursday 28th December 8.30am – 4pm.
Our normal opening hours will resume on Tuesday 2nd January at 8.30am.

From all of us at Sharoe Green Dental Practice, we would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

It’s almost December, meaning that the Christmas party season is about to officially open. For many, the much anticipated work and family gatherings are the highlight of the year and are awaited with excitement. However, if you have are not happy with the appearance of your teeth, you may well be a lot less enthusiastic about the idea. Instead, you will be focused on ways to escape the photos, avoid having to show your smile and dodging questions about why you look so unhappy. Luckily, there is still time to restore your sparkle with professional teeth whitening.

In this article, we’ll answer your questions about teeth whitening and leave you ready to truly celebrate a white Christmas.

Teeth whitening – is it worth it?

Patients frequently wonder if they can justify investing in what is essentially seen as a purely cosmetic treatment. The answer is that if you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth and find yourself doing anything to avoid showing them, investing in a professional teeth whitening treatment could do far more than simply enhance your appearance – it is also proven to leave you feeling much more happy and confident, and others will quickly see this. Restoring the natural beauty of your smile can also help to roll back the years and leave you looking younger.

I’ve tried to do it myself – why doesn’t it work?

We frequently hear stories of people who have purchased DIY teeth whitening kits online and been completely dissatisfied with the results. Although they do not cost as much as a professional treatment, people often feel that they have wasted their money and are left unhappy and out of pocket.

So why don’t these DIY kits work? Due to UK laws, those kits which are legally (and sometimes illegally) available online or on the high street contain a very small amount of the active ingredients that tackle stains, often only enough to have a small effect on superficial surface stains. This is often not enough to make a significant change to your appearance.

What do dentists recommend?

Here at Sharoe Green Dental Practice, our Principal Dentist Dr Graeme Fisher BDS PGDip MJD recommends choosing one of the following options:

Phillips Zoom! in-surgery power whitening

The most popular and effective solution by far is our Phillips Zoom! in-surgery power whitening treatment. Over 10 million patients have had their smiles brightened by this Zoom treatment and there are a range of treatment options available to meet specific patient requirements, meaning that you can almost always get the results you desire. Using the most advanced technology available, Phillips Zoom! Can get you the shiny white smile you’ve dreamed of in as little as 45 minutes of treatment time. The cost of this treatment is just £395 but patients that are on our membership plan get 20% off making it just £316.

White Beauty home whitening system

In addition, we also offer patients teeth whitening kits to use at home. The system we use is White Beauty Dental Teeth Whitening System because it’s a worldwide market leader in tooth whitening materials, it’s easy to use, and it delivers great results. We charge £150 for this treatment but patients that are on our membership plan get 20% off, a great saving making the treatment £120.

Here at Sharoe Green Dental Practice we are committed to maintaining the very best standards of care for our patients, and will always need to conduct an initial consultation prior to starting a teeth whitening treatment in order to ensure that it is suitable. To book your consultation now and get on the way to having a brighter, whiter smile for Christmas, call us on 01772 718753 or contact us online now for a quick response.

It’s almost halloween. The shops are filled with all manner of halloween merchandise from the spooky and amusing to the downright ghoulish and ghastly. As well as the usual costumes, characters and decorations, there is also an incredible range of halloween confectionary on display to tempt the children – a true nightmare for teeth-conscious parents. And then there is the inevitable trick or treating too, which seems to feature ever increasing volumes of sweet treats. So what can you do to help your children have a happy but tooth-friendly halloween and half term? Here are some top tips.

Halloween handicraft

Halloween traditionally marks the half term holidays. It can be a challenge to keep the kids away from the lure of sweets and snacks throughout their well earned week off. Keeping them busy is one of the most effective ways to distract them. Why not get creative and set them to work on some halloween handicraft that will keep their little hands off the sugary snacks? With such an excellent range of crafting materials available both online and in high street retailers, families can have immense fun making their own halloween decorations, costumes and more – the only limit is your imagination (but luckily there is Google to help with that too). Order online and you won’t even have to drag the kids past sweet-filled displays!

Monstrous munchies

Get the kids to create some creepy cakes or spooky snacks during the break. Look for recipes that are based on sugar-free or low sugar ingredients to reduce the risk to your children’s teeth. If you are cooking with chocolate, consider using dark chocolate as an alternative. It typically has a considerably lower sugar content than milk chocolate (but do check the labels as this does vary from product to product).

You might also want to consider substituting sweets and processed snacks for natural alternatives such as nuts, dried fruit and fresh fruit – all of which you can have some frightful fun with. Don’t overlook how much halloween fun can also be had with seasonal vegetables for both main meals and snacks too. Dentists do, however, recommend that sweet snacks and foods are consumed at mealtimes wherever possible. This reduces the amount of time that your children’s teeth are exposed to sugar.

Have your pumpkin and eat it

You’ve almost certainly had fun carving pumpkins with the kids. But did you know that pumpkin can be used for a variety of delicious and nutritious dishes too, and not just the famous pumpkin pie. Why not hunt around for some good quality pumpkins (squashes work well too) and experiment with some creepy cuisine. There are plenty of ideas available online. You can’t always have your cake and eat it – but who said the same has to be true for pumpkins?

Don’t forget the fangs

It’s particularly easy at times like half term to let the kids have a bit of a break from the usual routine and give them a little more freedom in the evening. This is all well and good, but be sure not to let them off the hook when it comes to polishing those fangs. Brushing the teeth at least twice a day for at least two minutes is essential to maintaining healthy teeth for the future. Especially at a time of year when sugar consumption tends to be higher than normal.

Here at Sharoe Green Dental Practice in Preston, we pride ourselves in offering a friendly and caring environment for the whole family. If you have any concerns about your childrens’ teeth, we are more than happy to discuss them with you and arrange a visit with a dentist as required. To book an appointment for your family now or to enquire about joining the practice, call us on Preston 01772 718753 or contact us online with our simple form available here.