Why not start the new year as you mean to go on, by making a pledge to look after your teeth?  Many people often neglect their oral health, only visiting the dentist when it becomes a necessity, so for 2019, make it your resolution to book a regular date with the Oakley Road Dental team. Afterall, January is the perfect time to establish healthy new habits, as its out with the old and in with the new.

Did you know that a staggering 80% of people fail to stick to their new year pledges?

This year why not join the elite 20% with these realistic dental resolutions and achieve your brightest, whitest, healthiest smile yet.

Resolution #1 – maintain a good oral health routine

A good oral and dental hygiene routine can help prevent bad breath, tooth decay and gum disease and can reduce the risk of more serious health problems such as heart attacks, cancer and diabetes occurring in the future. But with our busy lifestyles a thorough brush often falls to the wayside.

This year why not pledge to brush at least twice a day using fluoridated toothpaste. By constantly brushing the teeth (and tongue) for a total of two minutes, will allow you time to sweep all surfaces. If you can commit to regular flossing too (and we don’t mean the latest dance craze), then not only will your dentist thank you, but your mouth will too.

Resolution #2 – book a hygienist appointment

There are certain areas of the mouth which are difficult to reach, and it doesn’t take long before unsightly plaque builds up around the lower front teeth. If it has been more than 6 months since your last hygienist appointment, then make it a new year resolution to book in to see the lovely Michelle.

Mainly concerned with ‘preventive’ methods, she will show you how to keep your teeth in tip top condition in the fight against the dreaded gum disease. So, if you want to grin instead of grimace next year, then frequent visits to our dental hygienist will keep you free of plaque and tartar deposits.

Resolution #3 – Quit smoking

One of the best things you can do to improve your oral health is to stop smoking. And, with a new year upon us, there’s never been a better time to quit.

Nothing tarnishes teeth worse than tobacco, and smoking – whether it’s a pipe or cigarette – heavily contributes to gum disease, cavities, tooth loss, mouth pain and oral cancer. So, stub it out for good and be a quitter for the right reasons. Not only will you be giving your body a fresh start, but your breath too.

Resolution #4 – a healthier lifestyle

It’s not just smoking that is bad for your teeth, but convenience foods, coffee, alcohol, fizzy drinks and sweets all contribute to our dental health issues. It doesn’t matter how much we brush, floss and take care of our teeth, if our diet is poor then our bodies start to suffer.

You don’t need to go on a ‘new-fangled’ diet, become a gym bunny or a fitness freak, you just need to be aware of what you are eating as part of your everyday diet. By decreasing our consumption of sugar, caffeine and refined carbohydrates, and at the same time increasing our water, fruit and leafy green vegetable intake, we start to reduce the risk of developing painful, unsightly, and costly oral issues.

Resolution #5 – Make your teeth shine

Enjoy a brighter start to the year with some teeth whitening. Thanks to our love of coffee, tea and red wine, our once pearly whites can often start to become stained and discoloured. But, when you combine professional teeth whitening with some minor tweaks to your lifestyle and diet, within a matter of weeks you’ll notice a big difference.

Treat yourself to some new year pampering at Oakley Road Dental Practice and indulge in some teeth whitening treatment that is not only safe but effective too.

Resolution #6 – Plan your dental appointments

It’s easy to put off visiting the dentist, especially if your teeth feel healthy and strong. Prevention really is better than cure though, and routine visits to the dentist can help fight against oral gum disease, reveal existing or impending issues and assist you in achieving your brightest smile possible.

We are a friendly bunch at Oakley Road Dental Practice and place our patients at the heart of everything we do. We strive to make visiting us as effortless and stress-free as possible. So, for 2019, don’t put your dental appointments on the back burner, be proactive and book up for the year ahead.

Make 2019 the year for a “fresher” start as you take the opportunity to eliminate bad habits and establish new oral hygiene routines.

It’s time to make your Christmas wish come true! Visit our private dental practice this winter and indulge in a host of treatments that are sure to make you shine – just in time for the festive season.

There’s no need to hibernate – Oakley Road can keep you looking great

It’s no wonder so many animals choose to sleep their way through the winter months. The days are short, the skies are grey, and the holiday buzz has been well and truly blown away. But with party season just around the corner, it’s time to put some sparkle back into your life, and we are not just talking about the latest fashion trend.

At Oakley Road Dental Practice, we offer a range of treatments that can freshen and brighten up your look ready for the festive period. From giving you a smile to be proud of, teeth that glisten all year round and skin that radiates from the inside out; when you choose Invisalign, teeth whitening or Botox and Dermal Fillers, you’ll be the belle of the ball.

There’s no need to hibernate – Oakley Road can keep you looking great

It’s no wonder so many animals choose to sleep their way through the winter months. The days are short, the skies are grey, and the holiday buzz has been well and truly blown away. But with party season just around the corner, it’s time to put some sparkle back into your life, and we are not just talking about the latest fashion trend.

At Oakley Road Dental Practice, we offer a range of treatments that can freshen and brighten up your look ready for the festive period. From giving you a smile to be proud of, teeth that glisten all year round and skin that radiates from the inside out; when you choose Invisalign, teeth whitening or Botox and Dermal Fillers, you’ll be the belle of the ball.

Treat yourself to an early present with Invisalign Clear Braces

Give yourself the confidence to smile this Christmas and correct those crooked teeth with Invisalign treatments – an effortless and efficient way to straighten your teeth and boost your self-esteem.
Invisalign is the perfect treatment for those who want an impeccable smile but want to be discreet about achieving it. Practically transparent, these custom-made braces are comfortable to wear both day and night and are completely removeable for when you want to be brace free for a special occasion.

When you start your Invisalign journey with us, we will show you in advance how your teeth will look, post treatment, using our innovative 3D scanner. Providing you with a set of bespoke aligners to wear, your teeth will gradually move into place over time.
There couldn’t be a more wonderful gift to give yourself than Invisalign clear braces, at this magical time of year.

Enjoy a white Christmas with our Teeth Whitening Kits

If you are dreaming of white teeth for Christmas, then why not invest in some whitening? Teeth whitening is an effective and affordable cosmetic dental procedure that can produce dramatic results almost right away.

Our love for coffee, tea, red wine and even tomatoes have meant that our teeth can quickly lack the razzle, dazzle of our previous pearly whites. But there are things that we can do to make them look brighter.

At Oakley Road Dental Practice, we offer professional teeth whitening treatment that will lighten your existing shade, leaving you beaming from ear to ear. We will start by taking an impression of your teeth and providing you with a custom-made mouth guard. Following a detailed demonstration and some advice, it is then over to you to administer a small amount of whitening gel to your trays which you will wear for a few hours during the day or overnight to get you party ready.

Banish the winter blues with Botox or Dermal Fillers

As the tan starts to fade you may feel like you need a little extra help in order to keep your skin glowing this winter. Serums, creams, moisturisers and facials can rejuvenate the skin over time, but in order to enjoy a youthful-looking complexion faster and for longer, we offer a range of facial aesthetics including Botox and Dermal Fillers.

Anti-wrinkle injections such as Botox and Dermal fillers were predominately only considered as treatments for the rich and famous, but today they are cost effective solutions to fighting the signs of natural ageing and have been backed by decades of scientific research.

These non-surgical procedures work by plumping or flattening out specific areas to the face. Botox works best on wrinkles and lines which have developed through facial expressions. Over time, these lines start to become more noticeable, having etched into the skin. Botox helps by relaxing the facial muscles that form the wrinkles and smoothing away the lines in the process. Dermal Fillers can add volume and bounce to your skin in a subtle and natural way. Mainly applied around the mouth, chin and nose, it and adds shape to the lips and makes cheek bones more prominent.

These anti-ageing treatments do not require any form of anaesthetic or numbing cream and are virtually pain-free which means that they can be safely administered in a matter of minutes.

So why wait for Santa Claus to bring you a gift when you can treat yourself with a visit to Oakley Road Dental Practice? Call us today to make an appointment.

We would like to invite you to an open evening at Oakley Road Dental Practice, where you will have the opportunity to meet and greet our friendly team.

This is the perfect opportunity to pop along and ask our principal dentist Melanie Pittroff and newest dentist Dimitrios Koroneos any questions you may have, whilst getting to know them in a relaxed and informal setting.

Refreshments and nibbles will be served on arrival and 1-2-1 appointments are available if preferred.

Oakley Road Dental Practice:
84 Oakley Road, Shirley, Southampton SO16 4LJ

Please read our reviews and see where we are on Google.

Over the course of the next few week and months we’ll be following Sue, one of our new Invisalign patients. She is currently having Invisalign treatment and wanted to share her experience in a weekly diary for our blog.

We hope you enjoy finding out about this fantastic way of straightening your teeth with Invisalign treatments.

If you would like to make an appointment at the practice for an Invisalign consultation, please call the reception: 023 8077 1450

Invisalign Introduction

In May 2018 I went for a routine check-up at Oakley Road Dental Clinic, with my dentist Mel. She mentioned to me if I would be interested in having my teeth straightened. She said she had a scanner coming in that could scan my teeth and show me how they would look when straightened.

I was a bit weary because although I have always wanted straight teeth, I thought being 62 that I was a bit long in the tooth for that procedure (excuse the pun!).

However a month or so went by and I kept thinking about it, but not seriously. I then developed an abscess under one of my teeth, and insisted on having it out as the pain was so intense and the tooth was dead anyway. At this point I asked Mel to explain what having my teeth straightened would mean? She showed me Invisalign retainers and I could not believe things had moved on from wire braces.

I made an appointment to have the scan, and a couple of weeks later went back to have my retainers fitted, this was on August 15th 2018.

Invisalign Week One August 15th – 22nd

The ulcers have gone, I’ve chatted to a lot of people who didn’t even realise I wore them, and most were interested to see how things went as were very keen on having them done too.

I was quite excited that I was going to have a new set in on the 22nd and wondered how they would feel. Well at first they felt really tight, and a little painful but nothing that a painkiller couldn’t cope with.

I was glad to get a new set in though because it felt I was starting to get something I had always wanted, straight teeth.

Towards the end of the week the retainers do look a little discoloured, mainly I think because I drink tea, and a couple of times this week I ate with them in, only because it was more convenient to do it as I was out. But as soon as I was able I would go off to the ladies with my little toothbrush and paste I carry in my bag and take them out and clean them and my teeth.

Now I do it the other way round if I know I am going out to eat I take them out and put them in their little case, and after I have eaten I go to the ladies brush my teeth and re-fit them.

It’s no fuss especial as I keep focusing on what they will be like in a few weeks’ time.

Invisalign Week Two August 22nd – 29th

The ulcers have gone, I’ve chatted to a lot of people who didn’t even realise I wore them, and most were interested to see how things went as were very keen on having them done too.

I was quite excited that I was going to have a new set in on the 22nd and wondered how they would feel. Well at first they felt really tight, and a little painful but nothing that a painkiller couldn’t cope with.

I was glad to get a new set in though because it felt I was starting to get something I had always wanted, straight teeth.

Towards the end of the week the retainers do look a little discoloured, mainly I think because I drink tea, and a couple of times this week I ate with them in, only because it was more convenient to do it as I was out. But as soon as I was able I would go off to the ladies with my little toothbrush and paste I carry in my bag and take them out and clean them and my teeth.

Now I do it the other way round if I know I am going out to eat I take them out and put them in their little case, and after I have eaten I go to the ladies brush my teeth and re-fit them.

It’s no fuss especial as I keep focusing on what they will be like in a few weeks’ time.

Invisalign Week Three August 29th – 5th September

Really starting to get used to these retainers now, everything seems to come natural. I’ve started to notice that my teeth are becoming less prominent. It feels a bit strange when I eat as I’m aware that my teeth have actually moved. Went for a check on them this week, and Mel said all looking fine and to keep doing what I’m doing.

Mel did take a photo of them at the start and this week so hopefully we will start to see more changes as the weeks go by. My grand daughters aged 9 and 6 are fascinated by them, and ask if they will need them… sounds funny Nanny having braces, but I guess if they do have to have them later in life it won’t be so daunting for them.

Invisalign Week Four September 5th – 11th

Every time I put a new set of retainers in they feel really tight, but not painfully so, a more satisfying feeling, that it’s another step towards straight teeth. Had a week of eating out for one reason or another but it doesn’t faze me anymore… I just pop them out put them in the case, and replace them after I’ve eaten. If I don’t have my tooth brush with me (for example when I’m out cycling) I pop them back in and sort the brushing and cleaning out when I get home.

I’m finding I am getting excited about the next week’s packet. I ran 10 miles last Saturday with them in and it was fine… training for THE GREAT SOUTH RUN ON 21ST October … and the exciting thing is I will be on week 9 by then….

Week Five September 12th – 18th

On holiday this week in Cornwall, getting used to having the retainers in even more now, almost feel naked without them. Went on long walks, and one particular day whilst sitting on a bench on a cliff top in very strong winds. We decided to have our Cornish Pasties that we had purchased before our walk. Well I had to remove the retainers and as soon as I did a gust of wind came along and almost blew them out of my hands… Of course my husband found this hilarious. They are so light that if they left my hands I dread to think where they would have ended up! I found these set a little uncomfortable on the bottom right hand side for some reason, don’t know why.

Week Six September 19th – 25th

Still on holiday part of this week, and found that I had become into a routine. I took retainers out when I ate, and in the evenings before I went to dinner. During the Day I would pop them in a tissue and in my pocket, even though I have a little case to put them in, when I’m doing long walks I don’t take my handbag with me so a tissue has to do. After eating lunch I made sure I drank enough Cider to make sure my mouth was clean before popping them in again…I’m a dab hand at it now! As a rule I don’t take them out when I drink… only when I eat. I will be wishing next week I was sat on a cliff top and drinking Cider 🙂

Week Seven September 26th – 3rd October

Getting really excited now as the weeks pass by, a new set in and they feel a little tighter. Nobody notices I have them in at all unless I show them which I quite often do. I am beginning to notice that my overbite has become so much smaller it’s quite hard to get used to, as when I take them out to eat sometimes I catch my cheek as my teeth have moved… it’s going to take a bit of time to get used to… but so happy they are working.

Week Eight October 4th – 10th October

Went for a Check up on how my retainers are doing with Mel yesterday. She checked that all the little buttons were all still in place and was so pleased with the amount of movement that has happened… it felt great hearing her say that too. I’ve become so used to them now that I practically feel naked without them… so all is good and I don’t have to see Mel until the last set are in and that will be first week in December… So excited.

Week Nine October 11th – 17th October

Well this week has arrived, Great South Run here I come (10 mile run on Sunday). Feeling more confident about how straight my teeth are going to be than doing the run ! Week Nine went in and to be honest I couldn’t wait to get them in. The movement is quite scary at the moment and I feel naked without the retainers in. Sometimes when it gets to be about 6ish in the evening, I’m quite glad to get them out for a couple of hours. I’ve noticed that my speech is a little bit odd at this stage
but that doesn’t bother me. When I sing in the Choir at St Matthews Church Netley Marsh, I leave them in and it doesn’t seem to affect my singing (or my colleagues haven’t said 🙂 ! Looking forward to getting Sunday out of the way now… this year is just flying away!

Week Ten 18th – 24th October

Well that was fun! NOT … it started off ok and then the sun came out, it’s the hottest 10 mile run I’ve ever done, but having said that its done, and with the sponsorship from Oakley Road Dental Practice my sum raised was over £1000.00 for Oakhaven hospice. My retainers were perfect throughout and people really beginning to notice the difference in my teeth. It’s getting very exciting now.

Week Eleven 25th – 31st October

This week has been a very sad week indeed, as my darling sister who I did the Great South run for passed away on October 30th….. so my sad to say not feeling like writing much, but so glad I did the run. My retainers are great still and the difference is amazing, I see Mel next week so I will have a better idea of how things are going.

Week Twelve – 1st November – 7th November

Went into see Mel on 5th November, she was extremely pleased with the way things are moving along. She took a picture so she might be able to add it to this blog. Can’t wait now as I know I’m seeing her next month for the finale of levelling and whitening. Already having lots of people ask me for before and after photos as they are thinking of having it done, and to those who are thinking about it, it’s well worth it! Especially the care you get from Oakley Road dental Practice… wonderful caring staff all of them.

To be continued…

Invisalign Clear Braces Southampton

Learn more about straightening your teeth and the very latest in 3D scanning technology with the iTero Element advanced imaging system.

The NHS is a wonderful service, funded to be there in your hour of need for advice, reassurance and treatment. However, it is easy to understand why more and more people are moving away from the NHS in favour of better-quality service and outstanding private dental care in Southampton.

Many patients, are often confused as to the main differences between private and NHS dental care, with the main assumption being put down to cost. Whilst this is obviously a factor, for those who are willing to pay that little bit more you’ll benefit from big differences, such as unrestricted treatments, innovative procedures and a service that is second to none.

5 reasons why you should choose a private dentist

When you choose a private dentist in Southampton, such as Oakley Road Dental Practice, we will ensure that everything you experience is fairly reflected in the price that you pay. Below we look at the advantages of going private for your dental care and explain why the cost implications are well justified when it comes to keeping a happy and healthy smile.

1. A superior service

When you think of the NHS, you conjure up images of a busy dental practice, operating with a one in one out approach to customer care. But, when you choose to go private you can enjoy an intimate and cossetted atmosphere where cost cutting budgets and patient targets are no longer a concern. Instead the focus is on building chair-side rapports and delivering high-quality treatments, tailored to individual needs.

A good private dental practice should not only invest in their patients, but in their expert clinicians, supplying them with the latest technology and providing training resources in which to learn and develop new skills.

2. The price you pay for perfection

There is no denying that private dental care will cost you more than visiting an NHS practice, but what you are guaranteed of is no hidden fees. The NHS works on a three-band pricing structure, which is complex, difficult to understand and often includes additional costs that you may not be aware of. A private dental practice, however, will disclose all their fees upfront and talk your through their pricing policy so that you understand exactly what services you are paying for. And, whilst innovative treatments may appear more expensive, your general dentistry is often affordable and not too dissimilar in price to the NHS.

Plus, there are a number of payment plans which allow you to spread the cost of your care, providing you with the reassurance of dental protection for life.

3. A selection of treatments

On top of that, when you choose to go private you will have access to a host of treatments that are not available through the NHS. For example, Oakley Road Dental Practice offer cosmetic dentistry including teeth whitening, hygienist and Invisalign orthodontics, which are specialised procedures not carried out on the NHS.

At some practices, you can also benefit from a number of facial aesthetics such as Facial Aesthetics, allowing you to freshen your skin as well as perfecting your smile.

4. Appointments to suit

Everyone has the right to sign up with an NHS dentist, but finding a convenient practice that has appointments available at a time to suit you, can often prove tricky. As a private dental patient, you will not only have access to a better timetable, but you can enjoy the benefits of longer, scheduled appointment times. This is essential for first time or anxious patients who seek reassurance and need more time in order feel more comfortable during treatment.

5. There for you in an emergency

There is nothing worse than being in pain and having to wait for an appointment. And, if you have a dental emergency such as a broken or chipped tooth, it is important that you get it looked at immediately as it may have long term implications for your teeth. The good news is, that with a private dentist you can rest assured knowing that you can contact your practice for an urgent appointment and be seen the same day or within 24 hours as well as seeking advice on restorative treatment.

Choose affordable private dental care for happier, healthier smiles

When you choose to go private, you certainly get what you pay for, and with our teeth here to stay for a lifetime, we think it is well worth investing in a sensational smile for the future. At Oakley Road Dental Practice, we won’t make you feel like a number, a revenue stream or a nuisance, just a valued and important patient.