All posts by Catherine McCanny

WAKEFIELD MAN GETS SOMETHING TO REALLY SMILE ABOUT

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Read about Matt’s life changing transformation thanks to Invisalign which featured  in ‘Downtown in Business’.

Matt Raey got more than he bargained for when he looked in a shop window while walking through Leeds city centre. The 21 year old fashion retailer was about to have his life turned upside down in the best way possible.

On his way to work at a then small retail store in the city centre he had walked slap bang into an interactive campaign as part of National Smile Month and the Wakefield man had won free teeth straightening and whitening courtesy of Invisalign Technology and Dewsbury Road Orthodonitist, Dr Catherine McCanny, who guided him through the pain free process.

For the retail manager it couldn’t have come at a better time because he was so embarrassed about his protruding teeth.

Matt’s transformation started when he walked through the Thornton’s Arcade in Leeds where Invisalign had a pop up shop filming passers by as they looked into a talking mirror. As Matthew smiled at his own reflection the mirror started talking to him.

“I had been checking out my reflection in the shop window when a voice shouted ‘Hey You!’ I tried to play it cool, but the window kept showing me all these fun pictures – it was hard not to smile. Then all these people seemed to appear from nowhere, singing and clutching a huge bunch of flowers. I was amazed and really excited when they explained what it was all about.”

“I was so pleased, I had actually been looking into treatment myself. I didn’t like the look of traditional braces, but I really hated my smile, it made me feel so self-conscious, I never showed my teeth in photographs. People used to comment that I never smiled.

“Before Invisalign I honestly think I was a lot less confident than I am now. A few months into my treatment, I decided that I would apply for a promotion with a bigger company. My confidence had grown, and I’m sure a large part of that was because of how I felt about myself and my changing my smile. I’m so pleased I did go for the interview, I have now moved upwards with my career, I’m a deputy manager of a large retail shop managing 45 members of staff!”

And it wasn’t the only life change that hit Matt when he smiled in the window!

“People seem to comment about how lovely my teeth are all the time now, and not just my mum! I’ve just started dating someone, and how ‘lovely’ my teeth are, was one of the first things she ever said she noticed about me! “

Matt was treated by Dr Catherine McCanny at St Michaels Orthodontics in Wakefield:
“I am so pleased that Invisalign has made such an improvement to Matt’s smile. He has been incredibly dedicated throughout the course of his treatment, and ensured that he wore his aligners as often as directed. Matt has shared with me that Invisalign has really improved his self confidence in dealing with the general public.”

Carmel Harrison PR

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New to braces? Here are some meal ideas to get you started!

smoothie

To celebrate #BreakfastWeek we’ve put together some ideas that are great for all our brace wearers out there!

Breakfast

Porriage or weetbix with cinnamon and banana (Don’t be adding sugar!)

Oats soaked in yogurt with grated apple and soft berries

Scrambled egg with beans

Smoothie (we love banana and mango!)

Pancakes with mushrooms and poached egg

Lunch

Cooked pasta with cucumber, tomato pepper (chopped into small pieces) with mayonnaise and chicken

Tuna salad

Homemade soup

Baked potato with cottage cheese and salad

Egg mayonnaise on soft bread

Dinner

Spaghetti Bolognese

Mashed potato, stewed beef and cabbage

Chilli and rice

Macaroni cheese

Teriyaki salmon and noodles

Risotto

Meatballs and pasta

Foods to avoid while wearing your brace:

  • Hard nuts, hard fruits
  • Crisps
  • Crusty bread
  • Pizza crust
  • Sticky stuff like chewing gum and toffees
  • Foods high in acidity lemons, limes and sodas.
  • Hard fruit and vegetables should be cut into bite size pieces not bitten.
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Christmas holiday open hours 2015

Christmas logo

 

The team @stmichaelsortho wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

The practice holiday open hours are as follows;

Friday 25th December 2015 – CLOSED
Saturday 26th December 2015 – CLOSED
Sunday 27th December 2015 – CLOSED
Monday 28th December 2015 – CLOSED
Tuesday 29th December 2015 – 9am to 4pm
Wednesday 30th December 2015 – 9am to 4pm
Thursday 31st December 2015 – 9am to 4pm
Friday 1st January 2015 – CLOSED
Saturday 2nd January 2015 – CLOSED
Sunday 3rd January 2015 – CLOSED
Monday 4th January 2015 – OPEN AS USUAL

If you require urgent medical attention after 6pm please call 111.

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10 things you need to know when you’ve had your brace fit

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  • It is normal to experience a mild aching in your teeth. If you experience excessive pain contact the practice for advice.
  • During treatment one or two teeth may feel bruised to bite on or feel like they are in the way of your bite.
  • Gaps in your teeth may increase as teeth as moved into their new positions, this is nothing to be concerned about all the gaps will be closed as the teeth are aligned.
  • If any of the square brackets which are stuck to each individual tooth slide or spin on the wire the brace has broken, you will need to telephone the practice to get it repaired.
  • If any metal parts of the brace rub you can cover these with wax until your lips and cheeks toughen up. Wax can be bought at any orthodontic practice.
  • Occasionally the wires may twist and rub cheeks. This will need correcting by your orthodontist as wax will only offer a temporary relief for it. If anything suddenly feels sharp or like it is ‘sticking in’ contact the reception staff for an appointment.
  • Delaying repairs can add weeks to the duration of your treatment.
  • We will work hard to align your teeth but your perfect smile also depends on good oral hygiene! An effective tooth brushing regime is essential throughout treatment to avoid the white ‘chalky stains’ known as decalcification. This is irreversible but easily avoided by ensuring time is taken to remove all plaque using the specific oral hygiene products recommended by your orthodontist. Visit https://www.stmichaelsorthodontics.co.uk/6-essential-steps-for-good-oral-hygiene-2/ for more advice.
  • Adjustments to your diet will be necessary during treatment. Sugary foods and drinks should be avoided; this includes ‘low sugar’ varieties of drinks! Sticky and hard foods can damage the brace; this will mean added appointment time and possible delays to the progress of your treatment.
  • During treatment it is essential to continue regular check-ups with your dentist and inform us if you change practices.
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6 ESSENTIAL STEPS FOR GOOD ORAL HYGIENE

So your on your way to a new smile! Follow these 6 essential steps to ensure that you maintain excellent oral hygiene. Plaque left on tooth surfaces can cause irreversible damage called decalcification. These white ‘chalky marks’ are not caused by the brace but by ineffective tooth brushing during treatment.

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BRUSHING

  • 3-4 times a day – Tooth brushing is very important! Brush on a morning, an evening (before bed) and after every meal. This means you will have to clean your teeth during school/work hours. Make sure you brush all your tooth surfaces and get in and around the brackets efficiently. Don’t forget to brush your gums!
  • Brush for at least 2 minutes each time

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TOOTHBRUSHES

  • There are two types of brushes you will need to clean your teeth thoroughly. The first is and orthodontic toothbrush – It has a ‘V’ shape, designed to go around the brackets. The second one is called an interdental brush
  • This is essential to clean between the brackets and under the wire
  • The places your toothbrush can’t reach.
  • Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months to ensure your teeth are getting the best clean.

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TOOTHPASTE

  • Use fluoride toothpaste, it doesn’t matter which one as long as it contains fluoride. Use a pea sized amount on your toothbrush.

MOUTHWASH

  • A fluoride mouthwash is recommended to keep the enamel of the teeth strong when the fixed appliance is in place. This should be used every night at a different time to brushing.
  • Hold it in the mouth for a fill minute and ‘swish’ around for it to reach all areas of your mouth.
  • This is NOT a substitute for tooth brushing!

FLOSSING

  • It might seem like you can’t floss whilst your braces are on, but you can. You can get special flossing products for when you’re wearing your orthodontic appliance
  • These include interdental brushes and floss threaders. You can do this at least once a day.

DISCLOSING TABLETS

  • If you or your orthodontist feels like you aren’t brushing your teeth correctly these are perfect for showing you the places that you have missed.
  • Simply chew the tablet and ‘swish’ it round your mouth for a few seconds and it will colour the areas of your teeth and gums that you have missed. You can then brush away the areas that you haven’t reached. Do this a 1-2 times a week to keep you on top of your brushing and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
  • Remember to put Vaseline on your lips to avoid dying your lips a bright colour!

By following these 6 simple rules you can ensure a wonderful new smile.

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Invisalign or fixed braces?

So you’ve made the decision to improve your smile but which brace is right for you? 

Here we give you the pros and cons of both Invisalign braces and fixed braces.

INVISALIGN

Invisalign

      PROS
  • BPA-free almost invisible aligners so you can still feel at ease in social situations
  • No wires or brackets to rub
  • Removable
  • No problems with any food getting caught
  • No foods off limits
  • No changes are needed to maintain good oral health as the aligners are removed
  • Virtual 3D treatment can estimate length of treatment more accurately
  • Less risk of enamel decalcification cause by poor oral hygiene and brackets

CONS

  • Can initially affect speech
  • The aligners can be lost which has a cost implication

FIXED BRACES

Radiance

    PROS
  • Better at treating more complex tooth movements
  • Cannot be removed so less self discipline is required
  • More types of brace available to suit your needs
  • The final tooth position is more precise with fixed braces

CONS

  • The wires and brackets can rub and cause discomfort
  • Some hard, sticky foods are off limits
  • Some foods can cause discolouration
  • Cleaning the teeth and brace requires more time and specially designed brushes

The decision to improve your smile is not one to be taken lightly; the expert team at St Michaels Orthodontics can guide you through the process. Call and arrange your free assessment with our Treatment Coordinator on 01924380680 or contact Dawn on orthodontictc@gmail.com. You can also visit https://www.stmichaelsorthodontics.co.uk/private/ for more information.

Whatever your decision you won’t regret it!
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The truth about tooth whitening

tooth-whitening    tooth-whitening-3

What is tooth whitening?

Tooth whitening is a procedure performed by Dentists to improve the colour of your teeth. It involves a tooth whitening gel either Carbamide Peroxide or Hydrogen Peroxide that you place into some custom made trays that you wear over night to lighten your teeth. The active whitening ingredient (Carbamide or Hydrogen Peroxide) penetrates your enamel to get to the discoloured molecules and over a period of 4-5 days you will notice a huge difference in the colour of your teeth. It is the perfect way to finish off your smile after orthodontic treatment!

Frequently asked questions

1. My hairdresser does tooth whitening in her salon is it ok to go there?

The answer is no. Only registered Dentists, Dental Therapists, Dental Hygienists and Clinical Dental Technicians working to the prescription of a dentist can perform tooth whitening.  The British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (BABTC) state that they will not insure any individual to perform tooth whitening. First of all they will not have insurance and secondly they will not have the correct equipment and training.

2. Is it illegal for beauticians to offer tooth whitening?

Yes. The High Court case of GDC Jamous confirmed that tooth whitening is the practice of dentistry and can only be legally performed by a dentist or a dental therapist, dental hygienist or a clinical dental technician working to the prescription of a dentist.

3. Can I book my son in for tooth whitening treatment for his 16th birthday?

No. Under the Cosmetic Products (Safety) regulations 2012 every patient must be over the age of 18 weather they are accompanied by an adult or not.

4. I want my teeth really white! I’ve seen some high percentage tooth whitening gels online will they be ok to use?

No. Firstly as stated before, only registered Dentists, Dental Therapists, Dental Hygienists and Clinical Dental Technicians working to the prescription of a dentist can perform tooth whitening. Regulations allow the maximum use of 6% Hydrogen Peroxide present or released. 10% of Carbamide Peroxide would release a maximum of 3.6% Hydrogen Peroxide therefore 16% Carbamide Peroxide is used in Dental Practices as the maximum Hydrogen Peroxide it will release is under 6%.

For more information on tooth whitening and what St Michaels Orthodontics have to offer –  https://www.stmichaelsorthodontics.co.uk/tooth-whitening/



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10 top reasons to smile

smile 1  
  1. 1. Smiling makes us attractive   There is a huge attraction factor to those who smile, we are drawn to them! Frowns and unhappy people push people away, so keep smiling.
  2. 2. Smiling relieves stress  When we are stressed it really shows up in our faces. Smiling can help us! When you’re stressed try your best to keep smiling and you will defiantly see a change in how you feel. It prevents you from looking tired, run down or upset. It makes other people think you are happy and you will feel a lot happier in yourself.
  3. 3. Smiling changes our mood  Next time you are feeling down, try putting on a smile. There’s a good chance you mood will change for the better. Smiling can trick the body into helping you change your mood.
  4. 4. Smiling is contagious  When someone is smiling; straight away they lighten up the room and make things more positive. If someone is smiling and seems a really happy person, it will make you want to smile as well. It changes the moods of others as a smiling person brings happiness with them. Make sure you smile lots and you will draw people too you!
  5. 5. Smiling boosts your immune system  When you smile you are more relaxed so your immune function can improve. Smile and you could prevent certain virus like cold and flu.
  6. 6. Smiling lowers your blood pressure  See if you notice a difference? Sit down at home and take a reading of your blood pressure. Spend the day smiling and measure your blood pressure after. You should see a reduction in your blood pressure, give it a try!
  7. 7. Smiling releases endorphins, natural pain killers and serotonin  Smiling is a natural drug, it releases endorphins, natural pain killers and serotonin and together these make us feel a lot better in our selves.
  8. 8. Smiling lifts the face and makes you look younger  No one needs to go for the expense of a face lift, just smile! Smiling will use muscles to lift your face and make you feel and look younger.
  9. 9. Smiling makes you seem successful  Smiling people appear more confident, are more likely to be promoted, and more likely to be approached. Put on a smile at meetings and appointments and people will react to you differently.
  10. 10. Smiling helps you stay positive Try this test: Smile. Now try to think of something negative without losing the smile. It’s hard. When we smile our body is sending the rest of us a message that “Life is good!” Stay away from depression, stress and worry by smiling.
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National Smile Month – Local schools brush up on their knowledge on the importance of good oral hygiene!

The UK’s largest and longest running oral health campaign is on its way. National smile month takes place between May 18th and June 18th and is the perfect opportunity to educate the local community on how important Oral Health is. It’s a time for as many people as   possible to get involved in this jam packed, fun month where hundreds of events and activities will take place.
Here at St Michaels Orthodontics we think it is very important for everyone to have a good understanding on how important good oral health is, especially young children! We feel if children learn young then hopefully in the future there will be a lower percentage of adults with dental problems. Two members of staff here at St Michaels, Katie and Kate, make regular visits to local schools and present a talk on oral hygiene, braces and ourselves at St Michaels Orthodontics. Recently they have visited 3 different classes, one at Flushdyke Junior and Infant School and two at Towngate School. They came back with such great feedback on how much the children and teachers learnt from the talk! They were amazed how much they learnt, two minutes of brushing is actually a very long time! Also who’d of thought flavored water contained so much sugar? The children and teachers won’t be drinking that as much anymore! The children loved getting involved and learning about how the brush their teeth properly, what to use, what’s good and what’s bad for your teeth and the consequences if good oral hygiene doesn’t take place.
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There are so many ways of getting yourself, your team and your friends involved. Why not select a few people and do a sponsored leg wax or create an eye catching display full of posters and information. Why not do a smileathron? Here at St Michaels Orthodontics we love taking as many pictures (selfies) as we can with the national smile month smilies. It’s a fun and easy way of taking part. You could even get your hands dirty and get all creative baking some tasty little treats to sell and raise money. Last year the staff at St Michaels did a full week of baking and raised a great amount of money for this event. Our therapist Katie and her nurse Kate also set up a cart at our local shopping centre handing out leaflets, toothpaste samples, balloons and pens as well as stopping shoppers walking past and having a quick chat about the importance of good Oral Health. There’s so much to do so there’s no excuse to not take part!   bun pj buns Continue reading →
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Top Tips on how to keep your smile nice!

Throughout your life it is very important to keep your teeth! Teeth are necessary for chewing (mastication), this is where the teeth grind, tear and cut food ready for swallowing. Without your teeth, chewing will become very difficult, so make sure you keep your teeth as long as you possibly can!

Oral Hygiene
One very important thing that should be part of your daily routine is cleaning and flossing your teeth. This will help maintain your healthy smile.

Brushing tips

-First of all, choose a medium bristle brush or an electric brush and a toothpaste containing fluoride. (Fluoride has been proven to prevent cavities).

-Brush after every meal (3-4 times daily). One of those times should be just before you go to sleep on a night. Brushing too hard can damage your gums causing recession.

–Brush your teeth for a minimum time of two minutes each time. A top tip is to brush whilst listening to a song and by the time the song has finished, you’ll have done your two minutes of brushing.

–Roll or flick the brush so that the bristles move out from under the gum toward the biting edge of the tooth. This helps move the plaque out from under the gum line.

-Use interdental brushes twice daily to remove debris from in between your teeth.

-Use a fluoride mouthwash once a day on a separate occasion to brushing.

Bad oral hygiene will result in decalcification!!
The diagram below shows decalcification!

Decalcification simply means loss of calcium from the teeth. It occurs with poor cleaning and a bad diet leaving plaque to sit and built up on the teeth. This allows the acid in the plaque to sit on the enamel, resulting in the calcium being drawn out of each tooth. The calcium makes the enamel strong and with out it, it will become soft. This is irriversable as it is the early stages of decay.

Nicole-Holdsworth-Center

Good diet?

A good diet is very important to help keep your teeth healthy. A poor diet can lead to gum disease, tooth decay and bad breath (halitosis). Try avoiding acidic food and drinks as each time you eat or drink, your teeth are under attack for up to one hour! Sugar reacts with bacteria in plaque and will cause harmful acids that will attack your teeth and may result in decay or decalcification. Therefore you need to make sure you have a balanced diet.

Acidic food and drinks causes damage to your teeth (decay/decalcification). Acid wears away enamel on your teeth and leaves dentine uncovered, your teeth are then more prone to decay. Tooth decay can lead to fillings in your teeth or even extractions (removal of teeth).

Any food or drink with a PH level lower than 5.5 is a danger as it has a potential of causing damage to your teeth. Here are some examples:

Examples to avoid are:

  • Vinegar PH 2.0
  • Red wine PH 2.5
  • Cola PH 2.5
  • Pickles PH 3.2
  • Grapefruit PH 3.3
  • Orange juice PH 3.8
  • Lager PH 4.4

Examples of healthier snacks are:

  • Cheddar Cheese PH 5.9
  • Celery PH 6.5
  • Milk PH 6.9
  • Breadstick PH 7.0
  • Mineral Water PH 7.6
  • Walnut PH 8.0
  • Carrots PH 9.5

The best drink to have throughout the day is water or milk and to drink as little red wine and fruit juices as possible as they have a much higher risk of causing damage to your teeth. Try to drink fruit juices or anything very acidic at meal times to minimise the acid attacks on your teeth throughout the day.

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