maltings-dental

Understanding Sedation In Dentistry

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 10:47:51 GMT

A Solution for Nervous and Phobic Dental Patients

Dental anxiety is incredibly common. Whether it's a bad past experience, a fear of needles, or just feeling out of control — you are not alone. These common issues prevent patients from seeking the treatment they need. At The Maltings Dental Practice, Laura Hunter-Shaw offers sedation services designed to help anxious and phobic patients receive care in a comfortable, stress-free environment in order to improve their oral health and overall well-being.

What is Dental Sedation?
Dental sedation is a technique used to help patients relax during dental procedures. It is particularly beneficial for those who experience significant anxiety, have a strong gag reflex, or require extensive treatment. Sedation does not mean you are asleep but induces a state of deep relaxation and calmness, allowing treatment to be carried out efficiently and comfortably.

Types of Sedation Available

Dr. Laura Hunter-Shaw is highly trained in administering both inhalation and intravenous (IV) sedation, ensuring patients receive the most suitable option for their needs:

Inhalation Sedation (Nitrous Oxide/Laughing Gas): This involves breathing in a mixture of gases through a nose bubble providing a mild sedative effect. The effects wear off quickly, meaning patients can usually resume their normal activities soon after treatment.

Intravenous (IV) Sedation: This method involves administering a sedative drug, typically midazolam, directly into the bloodstream through a small cannula in the arm or hand. IV sedation provides a deeper level of relaxation, and while patients remain conscious, they often have little to no memory of the procedure. This makes it ideal for individuals with severe dental phobia or those undergoing complex or lengthy treatments.

The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Choosing sedation dentistry with Laura comes with numerous advantages:

● Reduced Anxiety

● Pain-Free Experience

● Faster Treatment Times

● Improved Oral Health

● Safe and Effective

A Caring and Professional Approach

My passion is helping nervous and dental phobic patients feel at ease and regain confidence in their dental care. I take the time to listen, to understand your concerns, and to create a plan that works for you. Whether that’s gentle reassurance, a calm approach, going at your own pace, or by using sedation to help you fully relax, I’m here to make your experience as stress-free as possible.

I pride myself in my relaxed and down to earth nature which allows me to build rapport quickly and establish a positive atmosphere within the surgery. I enjoy creating lasting relationships, built on trust and honesty, to help patients achieve their dental goals.

If you or someone you know struggles with dental anxiety, sedation dentistry at The Maltings Dental Practice could be the perfect solution. Contact us today to learn more and take the first step toward stress-free dental care with Dr. Laura Hunter-S haw.

Research

ivorycare@maltingsdental.co.uk (Hayley Drury) — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 11:28:34 GMT

During the last year, our team have been involved in research with the Department of Health and Social Care to improve the health of the nation. We are continuing this through 2025 and have several research opportunities we are excited to be a part of.

Each year patients attend over 36,000 appointments at the dental practice for either their routine dental care or as a referred patient. With this in mind, our next research project is an amazing opportunity to increase access and target patients who do not routinely attend their GP practices.

According to the British Heart Foundation, four million people under the age of 65 in the UK are living with untreated high blood pressure . The analysis also found that 1.3 million of these people are under the age of 45. If untreated, high blood pressure can significantly raise the risk of heart attack and stroke. It’s also associated with an increased risk of vascular dementia.

We already know that seeing the dentist can naturally increase our blood pressure, to make sure you are as relaxed as possible we have selected our testing team wisely. Our excellent support staff, Susie, Leah and Adele will greet you with a friendly face and a jolly smile and have lots of patience.

The team have completed their training and following lots of practice on our colleagues, are now offering blood pressure (BP) testing to any patient or non-patient who would like this service. Our aim is to play an active part in helping to diagnose untreated high blood pressure. This will increase awareness of ways to lower your blood pressure such as lifestyle choices and signposting you to the right healthcare professional should this be required.

As we move into 2025 we will also be participating in 2 more research projects.

- Early detection of diabetes. The aim as with the blood pressure testing is to target patients who do not routinely attend their GP with a view to detecting early undiagnosed pre-diabetes/diabetes and make an onward referral for the patient to receive the appropriate diagnosis and advice.

- CHOICE (Changing habits to prevent child caries) The aim of this project is to focus on supporting families where children have experienced tooth decay. The team will work with the family to set goals to adopt healthy behaviours to make this part of their new daily routine to prevent future tooth decay.

The team is excited to be a part of these new research projects, making a difference to the health of our patients and their families.

We look forward to seeing you when you are next at the practice.

Christmas Tips for Top Teeth

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 11:26:00 GMT

Christmas is fast approaching, and it brings many delicious treats and temptations, especially after trying to be good throughout the year! However, mince pies and your festive tipple, together with late nights and slacking on the tooth brushing, can take their toll on your teeth and gums. To help you stay on track and protect your teeth during the festive season, we’ve collated our five top tips:

Being aware of STICKY FOOD damage

Christmas cake, pudding and mince pies are laden with dried fruit, which is high in sugar that can stick to your teeth. Sticky toffees and sweets eaten frequently put your teeth under constant attack.

It is therefore important to pay extra attention when brushing your teeth over the festive season. Parents can check their children are brushing their teeth especially before bedtime, no matter their excitement that Santa is coming! And try not to let the little ones eat too close to their tooth brushing as the enamel will be softer from the sugar attack.

2. CLEAN YOUR TEETH WELL

You should brush your teeth at least twice a day for at least two minutes using toothpaste containing 1450ppm fluoride, as this helps protect teeth from cavities. However, you should spit not rinse when you have finished brushing, to avoid washing the protective fluoride away.

Interdental brushes or dental floss can be used to remove sticky plaque from in between your teeth. It’s important to supervise children’s brushing, and to remind family of all ages to brush their teeth thoroughly before they go to bed, even on Christmas Eve!

NUTS with shells on – Be careful to remove all the shell before nibbling on your Christmas nuts. It is easy to dislodge a filling or loose tooth by chomping on anything unknowingly hard. The same applies for hard sweets and pork scratching’s.

DON’T FORGET THE CHEESEBOARD!

After all your festive feasting, save a little space for the cheeseboard. Cheese is great for your teeth as it neutralises plaque acid, which helps prevent tooth decay. Eating cheese increases the amount of saliva in the mouth, which is the body’s natural way of maintaining a healthy pH level and cheese releases chemical compounds that can form a protective layer on teeth, which protects against acids that attack teeth enamel.

BOOK TO SEE YOUR DENTIST IN THE NEW YEAR!

If you haven't seen your dentist or hygienist for a while, make a New Year's resolution to book an appointment to look after your teeth and smile. Our practice reception team will happily assist in booking you an appointment at a convenient time.

Polynucelotides

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 14:39:35 GMT

Polynucleotides are an injectable biostimulator which helps improve and rejuvenate the skin. Polynucleotides are one of the latest regenerative medicine advancements in aesthetic medicine, but have been used medically in hospitals for decades to help with burns and wound healing and are backed by extensive clinical data.

Polynucleotides are made up of chains of nucleotides that are building blocks of DNA and RNA. They are responsible for cell regeneration and repair. They are derived from Salmon or Trout DNA which is intensely purified.

As we age, the skin produces less collagen and elastin, which increases signs of aging like wrinkles and sagging. Polynucleotides promote the production of collagen and elastin by stimulating the fibroblasts, increases hydration, reduces pigmentation, and has antioxidant properties. This helps to reduce the signs of aging.

What are the benefits?

· Enhances skin quality and texture

· Reduces fine lines and wrinkles

· Boosts hydration through enhanced hyaluronic acid production

· Diminishes pigmentation and dark circles

· Improves the appearance of scarring

· Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties which can help with conditions such as rosacea

· Aids in wound healing

· Can be used to address hair loss

Areas which can be treated include areas such as the face including under the eyes, neck, décolletage and the scalp.

For optimal results, at least three sessions are recommended, ideally three weeks apart. A maintenance session is required approximately 6-9 months depending on individual factors such as lifestyle, age, diet and use of sunbeds etc.

Results vary between patients, but results are usually visible by 3-4 weeks after the first treatment.

Is there any downtime?

After the treatment, there can be small bumps at the injection sites which generally disappear within 24 to 48 hours. As with any injectable treatment, there may be some temporary bruising, redness, and swelling. There is a small risk of infection which can be minimised with good aftercare eg avoiding touching or washing area for at least 4 hours and avoid wearing make up for 12 hours.

Is the treatment painful?

To reduce discomfort, numbing cream is applied before the procedure.

Can Polynucleotides be used alongside other treatments?

Polynucleotides can be used to rejuvenate the skin alongside other injectables such as anti-wrinkle treatments, skinboosters or dermal fillers. They can also be used to prime the skin before treatments such a lasers or chemical peels to help improve the effects of the treatment and reduce the downtime.

How are Polynucleotides different to Dermal Fillers or Skinboosters?

While both polynucleotides provide hydration, skinboosters do not have a regenerative effect. Dermal fillers can provide volume whilst polynucleotides do not. Polynucelotides are good treatment option for patients who want to improve their skin quality without adding volume. In addition, the result of dermal fillers can be noticed immediately but results from polynucleotides can take weeks.

Who is not suitable for treatment?

· Pregnant or breastfeeding

· Active skin infection/herpes infection in the area of treatment

· Fish allergy- may require patch test before treatment

· Previous or ongoing or autoimmune disease

· Hypersensitivity or Allergy to polynucleotide products

Your medical history will be reviewed at the consultation.

What products are used?

Dr Oteri uses the renowned brands Plinest and Newest for Polynucleotide treatments. Plinest Eye is specifically tailored for the delicate eye area, while Plinest can be applied to various regions. Newest combines polynucleotides with hyaluronic acid, offering regenerative effects along with skin hydration and plumping.

Treatment cost:

A single session £275.

Three sessions £750

If you would like further information or to get booked in, please contact the practice.

A consultation is required prior to treatment.

By Oke Oteri, Dental Surgeon

All About Dentures

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 14:40:11 GMT

Dr Conner Reynolds looks at dentures.....

What are dentures?

People wear dentures to replace lost or missing teeth so they can enjoy a healthy, balanced diet, smile with confidence and to help with their speech. Dentures fit snugly over the gums and can be made of acrylic (plastic), metal or parts of both. A ‘complete’ or ‘full’ denture replaces all the lost natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Whilst a ‘partial’ denture replaces just one or a few missing teeth and can be secured to your existing teeth with metal clasps. Gaps created by missing teeth can cause teeth either side to drift or tilt at an angle into the gap which can give a ‘crooked’ appearance and can make cleaning more difficult. Partial dentures are able to sit into the areas where there are gaps and prevent these problems.

How dentures are fitted

Full and partial dentures can be fitted straight after your teeth have been removed, these are called ‘immediate dentures’. They require a few appointments with the dental team before the teeth are removed to take impressions and measurements, but ultimately this means that you will not have any gaps once the teeth are removed. Initially these dentures fit well, but as time goes by, the gum heals and shrinks from where the teeth used to be and you may notice that the dentures may not fit as well as they did. If this happens, your immediate denture may need relining, adjusting, or remaking after around six months when the gums have become more stable. It is also perfectly acceptable to allow the gums to heal and shrink following tooth removal, and then look at having a denture fitted once everything is more stable after six months. The dental team will be able to give advice on this. Having a denture made typically takes between four to five appointments. Over this time, we take impressions and look at how you bite together to allow your future denture to work in harmony when you chew. The appointment before the final denture fit will be a ‘try-in’ stage where we can assess the fit of the denture, and you can also assess the appearance to ensure you are happy with the shade and shape of the teeth used on the denture. These features can be adjusted before the final denture is made so we can hopefully get the result you’re hoping for!

How long will my dentures last?

If you take good care of your dentures, they should last several years. Over time, your gums and jawbone will eventually shrink meaning the dentures may feel loose. When this happens, the denture may need to be relined or a new one made. Another reason a new denture may be necessary is if the denture teeth are worn away which can happen over time. When ill-fitting or worn dentures aren’t replaced, they can become uncomfortable and lead to infections, mouth ulcers, and difficulty speaking and eating.

References and for further information:

1. Oral Health Foundation [Internet]. 2019 [cited 2023 Dec 3]. Dentures. Available from: https://www.dentalhealth.org/dentures

2. nhs.uk [Internet]. 2017 [cited 2023 Dec 3]. Dentures (false teeth). Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dentures/

Tips for Brushing your babies teeth

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 14:54:28 GMT

By Dr Laura Hunter-Shaw

As a mum of a now one year old and a dentist, I have realised that nobody really tells you how to start to care for your baby’s teeth - and how difficult it can be! Here are a few tips that I have learnt this year which have made things slightly easier for us!

*Start as Soon as Their First Tooth Arrives* - Decay can occur in a tooth as soon as it breaks through into the mouth. Brush twice a day, every day! It doesn't have to be for 2 minutes to start with, but getting a toothbrush with some toothpaste on it in the mouth is essential!

*Have a Routine* - Do it at the same points in the day, every day! Last thing before bed and in the morning (it doesn't really matter whether it's before breakfast or after breakfast but be consistent). We brush after breakfast, before we walk the dog and after his bedtime milk during a story.

*Get a Brush They Can Hold* - One with a chunky handle works great as they can grasp it better. If it is too fiddly they will just drop it and it makes getting them to engage more difficult!

*Start With a Children's Mild Mint Toothpaste* - Use a flat smear of fluoride toothpaste (with at least 1000ppm fluoride) until they are 3 years of age. Unfortunately older child/adult toothpastes are minty. If you always give your child a minty form of toothpaste they don't know any different and will be a lot less upset when they realise you can't get adult toothpaste in bubblegum flavour!

*Brush Your Teeth at The Same Time* - Baby's love to copy, if you are brushing your teeth, they are much more likely going to want to brush theirs! If they want to, let them have a go at brushing your teeth too - fair's fair!

*Sit on the Floor or a Chair Behind Them* - It's a much easier angle and as if you are brushing your own teeth. It is comfortable, you have much more control, it is safer if they try to throw their head back (we've all been there) and everyone is more stable!

*Persevere* - No baby likes having their teeth brushed initially. They cry, they scream, they wriggle. But all of a sudden one day they will just let you do it. It is much easier to have this argument when they can't run away, it's easier to hold them still and when they won't remember it! The quicker you make it a routine and normal, the easier you will find getting them to do it as they get older - I hope!!

All parents and guardians are advised to ensure that young children in their care are taken to see a dentist as soon as their first teeth come through, and before their first birthday so they become familiar with the experience. Their first visit might be to accompany you or someone else in the family for a routine appointment. If you are worried about going to the dentist, you might also like to ask your partner or a grandparent to attend. It is important that you are positive about your forthcoming visit so that your child does not become unduly anxious.

Don’t worry if your child doesn’t want to open their mouth on the first visit to the dentist. The important thing is they get used to being in a dental practice while you have time to ask the dental team for advice on caring for your child’s teeth. Your child should see a dentist regularly. Until their 18th birthday, we usually recommend they visit the dentist every 6 months to keep an eye on how their teeth are developing and any problems can be spotted early making treatment easier.

For more information about children’s dental care, please contact the practice on 01476 563181.

Why become a dental nurse.......

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 12:36:04 GMT

Why become a dental nurse?

Listen to what our team members say……

My name is Stacey, and I am a qualified dental nurse, I have been at the Malting’s dental practice for 5 years’. Previously I had been working in a local gym and being a mum to my little boy. I decided to make a change, and wow it has been the best decision I have made. I am so grateful for the opportunities that the maltings have given me over the years. I started my dental nursing qualification in 2018, where I attended Nottingham college 2 days a month along with on the job learning each day, I completed this course within 18months. This enabled me to gain a level 3 qualification in Dental nursing that is recognised across the world.

During my time at the Maltings, I have been fortunate enough to work alongside a dentist who has a busy NHS/Private diary, who also provides additional care in periodontal therapy. We have built the best working relationship throughout my time here and helped each other in many aspects of working life. I have also been given an ability to work alongside the oral surgeons who come into the practice to remove difficult teeth. I am proud to work for such a diverse and caring team here at the maltings, I will with no doubt continue to grow throughout my career as a dental nurse here at the Malting’s. Stacey Beardsley

I have been a proud member of The Maltings Dental Practice team since 2008 and have worked as a dental nurse since 1992. During my career I have seen a lot of significant changes in the dental world and over the years dental nursing has become more than a job. I am always enthusiastic and passionate to provide the best care to patients and value all their needs with a desire to always give the best clinical care possible. Qualities required of a dental nurse include showing patients compassion and empathy, a caring nature is important.

The Practice see the importance of our professional development and enhancement of skills with regular personal development meetings. This is extremely beneficial to the nurse, the patient and also the practice so we are able to meet the needs of the patients we care for.

Since being at the practice I have gained extra qualifications in Radiography (Xray taking), Sedation, Delivering Oral health Education, Impression taking and application of fluoride. All these skills I can utilise at the practice on a day-to-day basis such as running my own clinics.

The most recent Skill I completed was the Sedation qualification in 2019, since then it has broadened more of my scope of practice and increased the areas of the job previously I was not involved with, the reward of this qualification is knowing that you are helping the most nervous of patients in receiving the care they need, helping people achieve something they didn’t believe they could otherwise do. To me this is very rewarding and the best part about my job. Susie Verow

If you would like to consider a career as a dental nurse we would love to hear from you!

Sedation with Laura

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 13:23:18 GMT

Making Your Dental Appointments More Relaxed and Comfortable using Sedation

Have you put off going to the dentist even though you’re in pain? Do you dread your dental appointments from the moment that you book them? Do you have a procedure coming up that’s going to be difficult for you to tolerate? You are not alone! Dental anxiety and phobia affects over half of the UK population and as a team we do our best to help you overcome these fears.

Our sedation team, led by Dr Laura Hunter-Shaw, have a special interest in helping patients who struggle with dental anxiety and phobia and treat these patients on a daily basis. Many of Laura’s patients come to see her after many years of avoiding dental treatment and she works with them to build their confidence, resolve any issues they have and give them their smile back.

Laura is enthusiastic and down to earth and is committed to trying to change patients’ perceptions of dentistry and make a trip to the dentist a more positive experience, based on trust and honesty. She endeavours to create a comfortable, relaxed environment where you are in control and can take the time needed to complete the treatment in a way that works best for you.

Laura and her team have undertaken further qualifications in Dental Sedation and Dental Anxiety Management which means they are able to provide this on a private basis for both adults and children upon request and it is suitable for most patients (medically permitting) following consultation.

Conscious Sedation is a safe and effective way of helping someone to comfortably get through their dental treatment journey, either through inhaling nitrous oxide or by injecting a sedative intravenously for a deeper sedation. It also can help to suppress gag reflexes. Laura will discuss the best method for you and your treatment to make sure that your experience is a positive one. Consultations are from £90.

We accept patients through direct contact with the practice or by referral from your own dentist.

For more information, either contact The Maltings Dental Practice, or visit our website.

Alternatively, get to know Laura better by following her -

Facebook: “Just Laura – General Dentistry and Sedation”

Instagram Page: @drlaurahuntershaw.

What Dental Products should I be using?

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 13:19:14 GMT

A common question from our patients is what dental products should they be using?

The market is full of dental products all claiming to improve your oral health, but which products are worth the money and which ones would we as dentists recommend?

Toothbrushes

An electric toothbrush has been shown by research to remove more plaque than a manual and therefore most dentists would recommend an electric over a manual – providing it is being used correctly. If you are unsure ask your dentist for a demonstration. Which electric toothbrush you prefer is personal choice, however the research points to one with an oscillating, rotating head. A vibrating toothbrush alone does not show the same results as an oscillating rotating one. Many electric brushes now come with lots of settings and functions all at extra cost to the consumer, whether you go for the highest end brush or the basic one is personal preference.

Toothpaste

With so many on the market it can be difficult to decide. Guidelines advise a fluoride content of 1000ppmF for under 3 years and 1350ppmF -1450ppmF for all children over 3 years and adults. This is the most important thing to check when you pick a toothpaste. Whitening toothpastes will generally remove surface stain but will not ‘whiten’ teeth. More cosmetic brands including charcoal toothpastes that claim to whiten can be very abrasive and would not be recommended as they can remove surface enamel. Sensitive toothpastes do work well as long as used cumulatively over a period of time, which one you choose is personal preference. Gum toothpastes aimed for patients who suffer with gum problems can be useful however they will never ‘cure’ the condition, often they only reduce symptoms allowing the disease to continue progressing with less discomfort to the patient. Most importantly any toothpaste should contain fluoride to the appropriate level and be used twice daily, spitting after brushing but not rinsing.

Mouthrinses

Generally mouthrinses are not recommended. Plaque biofilm is very resistant to anything but mechanical removal so the low level of chemical disinfection provided in most mouthrinses is unlikely to be of any great benefit. Fluoride mouthrinses are advised during orthodontic treatment and for patients who have high levels of decay. Mouthrinses for gum disease will reduce symptoms but not slow the progress of underlying condition usually leading to worsening of the condition as the patient feels the condition is improving as the symptoms have reduced.

Never use mouthrinses immediately after toothbrushing.

Interdental cleaning

Floss can be useful if you have very tight spaces between the teeth. Generally most patients will benefit more from the use from interdental brushes, which can be sized for the individual gaps. Water flossers can be a useful adjunct to interdental brushes for hard to reach areas and around implants, they should not replace mechanical cleaning with interdental brushes altogether though.

We have no affiliation to any brand or product.

By Claire Simpson, Dentist

Jaw Pain

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 10:36:49 GMT

The jaw joint – or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) – sits just in front of each ear. It’s a pretty complex joint that’s controlled, moved and stabilised by a lot of anatomical structures. When one or more of these stops working in harmony with the others, we head towards the territory of TMJ dysfunction, also known as TMD.

What are the signs of TMD?

- Aching in, or just in front of, the ears

- Headaches, often that are worse on waking

- Pain or difficulty chewing, eating, talking

- Swelling

- Limited range of opening

- Clicking, popping or grating joint noises

What causes TMD?

- Trauma, for example a knock to the face or jaw

- Unexpected wide mouth-opening, eg a very wide yawn

- Eating very hard or chewy foods

- Clenching or grinding teeth – usually while asleep

- Stress

- ‘Parafunctional habits’ – eg nail-biting, pen-chewing, use of chewing gum

I’m worried I have TMD – what can I do?

The first instance would be to speak to your dentist. GPs normally can’t do much for the condition, whereas your dentist is perfectly equipped to assess your jaw joint and suggest methods to reduce discomfort and inflammation.

Most cases of TMD are self-limiting, lasting up to a couple of months with minimal active treatment. Get in touch if you’re concerned about your jaw joint and one of our dentists will be happy to investigate for you!

What can I do to treat TMD now it’s been diagnosed?

- Firstly, don’t worry! Most cases resolve after a period of time with many people not requiring any further treatment.

- Try a soft diet – excess chewing over-works muscles that are already very tired.

- Pain relief – if you can take it, ibuprofen helps to reduce both pain and inflammation associated with TMD. Paracetamol can be helpful too.

- Local heat, eg a hot water bottle, can be soothing and improve blood flow to the muscles which helps them relax.

- Rest the jaw as much as possible, and support it when yawning with the palm of the hand.

- A splint – your dentist can make you an appliance similar to a gumshield that is designed usually to be worn overnight, helping to support the joint and muscles around it.

- Trust in the process! There are a lot of approaches to managing jaw conditions, and in the rare circumstance that these initial management approaches don’t give much relief, your dentist can refer you to a hospital-led service that has more advanced techniques at their disposal. Very rarely, this can include surgery – but there are a number of steps before this.

If you have, or are worried you may have, an issue with your jaw joint, we’ll be happy to help at The Maltings. You can get in touch on 01476 563181 during working hours to book in for a consultation and assessment!

Dr James Edwards
Dental Surgeon

Mouth Cancer Awareness Month 2022

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 13:04:24 GMT

This year the practice has supported mouth cancer awareness by participating in the 10km walk from home. Team members have united to walk around the Vale of Belvoir helping to raise funds for this cause. Donations are still being accepted through the following link https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/maltings-dental-practice

The charity is encouraging as many people as possible to step out and make a difference during Mouth Cancer Action Month.

Jason Wong, Mouth Cancer Awareness committed clinical ambassador, also joined the 10km in Hyde Park that was held in September.

The practice also showed their support by participating in ‘Blue Wednesday’. Blue lips and accessories were worn by the team to raise awareness and images were shared on social media.

What is mouth cancer?

Mouth cancer is where a tumour develops on the surface of the tongue, mouth, lips or gums. The tumours can appear like a lump, an ulcer or red and white patches lining the surface of the lips/tongue/cheeks. Non-healing ulcers should also be treated suspiciously as these can also be a form of mouth cancer.

Who is at risk?

Heavy smoking and alcohol consumption are the major risk factors for the development of mouth cancers. Chewable tobaccos used in cultures can also cause this. Recent links to HPV (human papilloma virus) and oral cancer have also been shown to be a significant contributory factor.

People with diets lacking fresh fruit and vegetables are also putting themselves at an increased risk.

How common is mouth cancer?

78% off cases occur in the Over 55 age group. Incidence has risen by 49% over the past 10 years.

Mouth Cancer is TWICE as common in men than women, though an increasing number of women are being diagnosed with the disease.

5 year SURVIVAL rate has hardly improved in last few decades due to late detection.

How can I reduce my risk of getting mouth cancer?

1. Maintain a well-balanced diet high in fresh fruit, vegetables, olive oil and fish.

2. Do not smoke.

3. Do not exceed the recommended alcohol consumption guidelines.

4. Visit your dentist regularly. As most forms of mouth cancer are often painless and symptom-free, your dentist plays a vital role in examining your oral soft tissues and look out for the warning signs and can refer you to the local specialist department if they are concerned about any areas.

Remember, the earlier the detection, the less the spread, and the better the outcome of treatment.

If you have any concerns, you should ask your dentist.

It is really important for all patients to continue to attend their dental check-ups, including patients who have a full set of false teeth so that we can continue to check for mouth cancers. Mouth and throat cancers can grow and spread quickly. If anyone has any concerns then just call our reception team, we are more than happy to take a look, you aren’t “wasting our time” or “being silly”. We are here to reassure you and if needed help onto the right pathway if any further treatment is needed.

If in doubt get checked out, be mouth aware.

This month our practice is offering Free Mouth Cancer Checks to casual non regular patients. To take advantage, please call the practice to book in during November.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 13:25:50 GMT

More than a third of women don’t check their breasts and this is higher in younger women. Often younger women don’t feel the need or see the benefit in doing this, but one in seven women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime and whilst the risk is higher the older you get, young women ARE diagnosed with breast cancer and it’s the checking that can ultimately save their lives.

Breast Cancer can be caused by a combination of our genes, environments, and lifestyles. Just because a person doesn’t have a family history of the disease, doesn’t mean they won’t go on to develop breast cancer. Checking regularly is vital and it is so important to know your breasts.

The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chance of successful treatment.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

Signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:

A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit
A change to the skin, such as puckering or dimpling
A change in the colour of the breast – the breast may look red or inflamed
A nipple change, for example it has become pulled in (inverted)
Rash or crusting around the nipple
Unusual liquid (discharge) from either nipple
Changes in size or shape of the breast

You are urged to see your GP if you notice a change in your breasts. Most breast lumps are not cancer but getting lumps and changes checked out is always worthwhile, and to put your mind at rest.

Success Story

Louise our Practice Manager was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019 after discovering a small lump. Thankfully she didn’t delay in getting this checked and is now approaching three and a half years post diagnosis. Louise’s message is clear, knowing and checking your breasts can save your life. Never believe you are too young as unfortunately cancer takes no mercy and can strike amongst any age and in men as well. Louise is forever grateful to the NHS team that took care of her throughout her journey and enabling her to get back to her former self. Louise recalls that when you are diagnosed your world shuts down and it takes time to realise that you are not alone and see a future again. At the time of her diagnosis in 2019 there was a lack of local support in Grantham, but now ‘Breast Friends’ support group is up and running, helping to support each other with over 100 members. Knowing that there are others that have been through the same or similar really does help and knowing you aren’t alone.

The Maltings team will show their support in the ‘Wear it pink day’ on Friday 21 ^st October. Raising awareness and sharing key messages is what the month is all about. We hope to share the message far and wide that regular checking of breasts will save lives.

A team we are proud of

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 11:32:38 GMT

With a team of nearly 50 members, The Maltings Dental Practice endeavours to work together effectively to provide the highest standard of dental care and services.

Dentistry isn’t without its stresses, and having a team that share the same values and work ethics really does pull everyone together to deliver care in such a way that really benefits our patients. It is well recognised the strength in the relationships in the surgeries between dentist and dental nurses and how, when it works well, the surgery runs like clockwork. Developing these professional working relationships creates the perfect care environment.

We hire for talent at the practice, seeking the friendly, adaptable and driven personalities who are supported to thrive within our team.

We strongly believe that everyone within the practice should have someone to turn to, which is important to our approach to well-being within the practice. We have been known to call ourselves the Maltings family as this reflects the security and support felt by the team.

To help develop and nurture a large team, we place a focus on team building within the practice. At The Maltings we organise events throughout the year, inviting everyone in the team to join in the event or activity. Previous events have been meals out, escape rooms, afternoon tea, paintballing and a visit to the theatre.

In preparation for each day, we get together before the start of the day to discuss any rota changes, share important information requiring discussion, any feedback and whether there are any visitors expected into the practice. These daily huddles help give the team a sense of purpose and clear expectations of the day ahead. The team also gets together for practice meetings to discuss significant events and information sharing. We’re hoping the team don’t just attend for the gifted Watkins roll!

The team also keep in touch with work through a communication platform, giving ease of access to guidance, training and arrangement of such events described above.

Our team is continually growing and we welcome further team members to allow us to help more people with their oral health needs; we always advertise our vacancies and we urge those that are interested in a career in a dental environment to come and meet us.

We are very grateful to the team that we have created and thank them for their ongoing commitment to caring for our patients.

Careers in Dentistry

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 13:47:53 GMT

Do you like science? Enjoy talking to people? Are you creative? Want to help people?

Have you considered a career in Dentistry? In my opinion - one of the most rewarding careers to go into.

People always ask me how I spend all day looking inside people’s mouths. And to be honest I sometimes forget that is (at a glance) what I do - and when you put it like that, it doesn’t sound the most enticing.

But when I think about my day, I don’t think about the mouths I’ve looked in. I think about the amount of interesting people I got to meet and speak to. I think about the difficult problem I managed to work out the solution to. I think about the beautiful new smile I created just by using my hands which has boosted someone’s confidence and made them feel better about themselves. I think about the person who hadn’t slept all night but went home without any pain. I think about the child who was scared of all the new sights and smells of the dental surgery, but went out with a skip in their step and a sticker on their chest to tell all their friends about it. I think about how much I appreciate and enjoy working with the team around me.

There are not many professions where you get to make such an instant impact on someone else’s life. You build relationships with patients and watch them grow from children into adults over many years. You are a teacher, an artist, an engineer, a therapist, a doctor and a children’s entertainer all rolled into one and every day is different!

So how do you become a Dentist?

- AAA at A Level including Biology and Chemistry

- BDS (Or equivalent) degree at university - 5 years.

But Dentistry isn’t just about ‘The Dentist’. We wouldn’t be able to do our job if it wasn’t for the amazing team around us. Don’t fancy the 5 years at University but want to get involved?

Why don’t you consider becoming a Dental Nurse?

- The dental nurse is the ultimate multi-tasker. They run the surgery, assist the Dentist and get involved in whatever procedure they are doing, but more than anything they support the patient with a reassuring smile and by being a hand holder if required.

- You can join a dental nursing apprenticeship straight from school and start working alongside your studies. Once you have qualified, there are loads of extra qualifications you can do to increase your involvement in procedures and with patients.

Fancy doing something in the middle ground?

- The role of the Dental Hygiene and Therapist is to educate patients, carrying out preventive and periodontal (gum) treatments for both adults and children. They undertake a variety of treatments on a wide range of patients including fillings, radiographs and impressions, as well as extractions on children.

- This requires a university qualification, but is only 3 years.

Next time you have your appointment, why don’t you ask your team members what they love about their job?

Educating Children about Oral Health

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 10:50:54 GMT

Tooth decay is the most common oral disease affecting children and young people in England, yet it is largely preventable.

As dental care professionals we get the chance to provide the message of good oral hygiene to the children and parents who come and visit us. There is still a large number of children who do not visit the dentist, so it is fantastic that Oral Health is now part of school curriculum.

At The Maltings Dental Practice, we pride ourselves on looking after the dental health of not only our patients but also the children in local schools and nurseries. This is something that we as a team really enjoy. It is lovely to interact with the children and make the topic of toothbrushing fun!

At a school or nursery request, we plan a visit to the children to explain all about how to look after our teeth, which includes toothbrushing technique, importance of a magical ingredient called Fluoride, effects of sugar, good and bad foods for our teeth, what a trip to the dentist involves and the grand finale is dressing up as a dentist!

We provide goody bags for the children and parents which include some leaflets for parents on oral health, a toothpaste sample, some colouring sheets, toothbrushing charts and some stickers.

We have received some wonderful feedback from schools that we have visited recently and the children really enjoy our visits.

“I just wanted to pass on our heartfelt thanks for coming to our school today and giving the children (and adults) such a good talk and presentation on looking after our teeth. I think everyone learnt something!

The children were very excited to take their goody bags home, thank you very much.

Both ladies were so amiable and responsive to our children. It was obvious the children felt very comfortable in their presence and they enjoyed asking them questions. The children also enjoyed the role play. Who knows we may have some future Dentists, Dental nurses or Oral Hygienists in our midst?”

Oral Health promotion is a passion for all of us here at The Maltings Dental Practice. This is an area that we feel we can make a big impact on if we educate children, as it enables them to adopt good dental habits to prevent dental problems occurring later on in their life.

If you have any questions or would like any help with resources, please contact our team on 01476 563181 or email admin@maltingsdental.co.uk

By Alex Murphy, Oral Health Educator

Mouth Cancer Awareness

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:25:52 GMT

I am sure that many of you reading this article have attended a routine dental check-up and

thought, why is the dentist feeling underneath my chin? Why are they making me move my

tongue into strange positions or pulling my cheeks to the side? Aren’t they just supposed to be

checking my teeth?….

Well, the simple answer is that at every dental examination we are completing a cancer check to

look and feel for any “lumps or bumps” that shouldn’t be there in the neck or mouth.

There are approximately 8000 new cases of mouth cancer each year in the UK which

unfortunately causes more deaths than road traffic accidents within the UK. Mouth Cancer is

twice as common in men than women and 78% of cases occur in the over 55 age group.

The main risk factors for mouth cancer are smoking, drinking alcohol in excess, the human

papilloma virus (HPV) and a poor diet. Drinking and smoking together can make mouth cancer up to 30 times more likely to develop, with smoking being the main cause.

The things to look out for which can be a signs or symptoms of mouth cancer include; ulcers

which do not heal in 3 weeks, lumps or swellings in the mouth with no obvious cause,

unexplained weight loss, red or white patches in the mouth, persistent hoarseness or changes in

voice.

At the Maltings Dental Practice, we promote Mouth Cancer Action Month which runs from 1st -

30th November this year and in previous years the team have done sponsored walks, cycles and

swims to raise money for charity. This year we will be displaying mouth cancer information around the practice and on social media to try and raise awareness.

It is really important for all patients to continue to attend their dental check-ups, including patients

who have a full set of false teeth so that we can continue to check for mouth cancers. Mouth and throat cancers can grow and spread quickly. If anyone has any concerns then just call our reception team, we are more than happy to take a look, you

aren’t “wasting our time” or “being silly”. We are here to reassure you and if needed help you onto

the right pathway if any further treatment is needed.

If in doubt get checked out, be mouth aware.

Dr Mary Elizabeth Hatton BDS BSc (Hons).

Associate Dentist

Sedation

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 10:24:57 GMT

Hello, my name is Laura and I am a dentist at the Maltings Dental Practice. I joined the team in 2019 and love treating the wide range of patient’s who come through my door each day. However, I know all too well that coming to the dentist can be a cause for anxiety and for some this means that they have avoided us for years!

Statistics show that 75% of patients have some anxiety in seeking dental treatment, and a small percentage put off coming to see us - even when in pain! I am committed to trying to change patient’s perceptions of the dentist and make it a more friendly and personable experience.

In order to make dentistry more accessible, even for the highly anxious, I have undertaken further qualifications in dental sedation which I will now be able to provide on a private basis for both children and adults, either through direct contact with the practice or by referral from your own dentist.

Conscious sedation is a safe and effective way of helping someone feel more comfortable through their dental treatment journey, either through breathing ‘happy gas’ through a nose mask or by injecting a sedative intravenously for a more intense sedation.

There are different levels of conscious sedation depending on the level of anxiety you have. We will discuss the best method for you and your treatment to make sure that your experience is comfortable and relaxed.

Sedation is available for both adults and children upon request and is suitable for most patients (medically permitting) following consultation. Consultations are from £90.

I encourage you no matter how long it has been, to take the first step to your pain free, beautiful smile, in an environment where you are in control; to start your journey to better oral health. You won’t regret it!

For more information, either contact The Maltings Dental Practice, or visit our website.

Alternatively, get to know me better by following my Instagram page @drlaurahuntershaw.

Snoring Devices

matthew@nuwavedesign.co.uk (Matthew McAuliffe) — Wed, 21 Jul 2021 13:40:03 GMT

Snoring driving you mad??

It is estimated over 24 million adults in the U.K. snore.

Snoring is the noise caused by the partial closure of the airway due to the relaxation of the soft tissue in the upper throat.

Snoring is part of a number of sleep conditions which all involve the upper airway. Snoring itself usually results in no sleep disturbance for the individual only for their partner/family. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea(OSA) is a potentially life-threatening condition where the airway collapses during sleep. This can begin as snoring, but then progress to grunting and gasping sounds as well as stopping breathing altogether, this if often very distressing for the sleep partner. It is important if you or your partner notice any of these symptoms to get advice from a medical professional be that your GP or your dentist.

Certain factors increase the chance of snoring: age, anatomy, gender, weight, medications and lifestyle factors are all of key importance and initial therapy always focuses modification of lifestyle factors, for example, losing weight or stopping smoking.

Snoring can have a large impact on the sufferer, their partner and their family. Multiple side effects include daytime sleepiness, motivational issues, high stress levels, lack of energy, poor effectiveness and social isolation.

Snoring is also implicated in increasing the risk of a number of medical problems, not only in the sufferer but also in their partner. Sleep deprivation and interrupted sleep increases a person’s risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease such as heart attack and stroke.

Considering the large number of people who suffer from this disorder relatively few people are aware that their general dentist can help them.

The Sleepwell device is the most clinically proven and effective mandibular splint for treating snoring and other sleep related disorders.

It can be made by your general dentist as long as they have had the appropriate post graduate training.

It works by moving and holding the lower jaw (mandible) in a forwards position, which in turn helps to open the airway at the back of the throat making the passage of air easier reducing the number of vibrations of the tissue which is what leads to the snoring sound.

This device has been clinically proven to reduce snoring in 100% of cases. Patient compliance and satisfaction with the device is very high. The MAS (mandibular advancement splint) is tailor made for each individual and has a soft inner liner for comfort. They are two piece devices which are fully self-adjusting.

If you have any concerns about yourself or your sleep partner or would like more information on anti-snoring devices please contact our reception team who will be able to book you a consultation with myself.

Facial Aesthetics at the Dentist

Fri, 21 May 2021 09:52:02 GMT

Every day, we use our facial muscles for expressions. Whether we are smiling or frowning, we are putting our muscles to work. Over the years, the repeated contraction of these facial muscles develops creases which causes lines in our skin causing fine lines and wrinkles. Aging is a natural process but with facial aesthetic procedures, there is a way to reduce the signs of aging.

An example of Facial Aesthetics procedures is Anti-Wrinkle Treatments. Botulinum Toxin (Botox), type A is a neurotoxin that temporarily paralyses muscles by blocking nerve impulses. As a result of this, the relaxed muscle can no longer contract which reduces the appearance of wrinkles and can help prevent new wrinkles forming. Botox is commonly used to treat wrinkles in the upper face including the frown lines (between the eyebrows), forehead wrinkles and crow’s feet- lines which can form around the side of the eyes when smiling or laughing. The results can take up to two weeks to be visible and can last between 3-6 months.

As we get older, our face loses fat and our skin loses elasticity and produces less collagen. This causes our skin to become thinner and lines and wrinkles start to appear. Dermal Fillers is another aesthetic procedure which can create a more youthful appearance. Dermal Fillers contain Hyaluronic Acid (HA). Hyaluronic acid naturally occurs in the skin. Hyaluronic acid holds water in our skin to keep it hydrated and plump. By injecting Dermal Fillers into specific areas, they can be used to create volume and improve facial contours and smooth out deep folds. They can be used to help define and enhance features. Examples of areas of treatment include, lips, cheeks, chin, jaw, nasolabial folds (the lips from the nose to the mouth). The results from Dermal fillers can be noticed immediately.

Both Anti-Wrinkle and Dermal Filler treatments can provide natural results in the right hands. Prior to treatment, a consultation is required to give you more information, discuss your medical history, concerns and goals and see whether the treatment is suitable for you.

I provide both Anti-Wrinkle and Dermal Filler Treatments at the Maltings Dental Practice. I have been trained in Foundation and Advanced Botox and Dermal Filler Treatments and starting my Level 7 Diploma in Clinical Aesthetic Injectables. As a Dentist, I have great knowledge of the head and neck anatomy. The manual dexterity skills acquired allows me to provide treatment to safe and high standard.

If you would like to find out more and book in for a consultation, please feel free to give our reception team a call.

New Dentist

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 09:48:43 GMT

We’re looking for a dentist to join our amazing team.

Nobody’s leaving but we want to try and help more people.

We’ve got a fantastic supportive group of nurses, receptionists, dentists, hygienists and managers to support you with your daily role.

You don’t have to be a singing dentist, dancing dentist, dapper dentist, or an instagram-influencing dentist. We’re looking for somebody who cares about the work they do and the patients they do it on.

You don’t have to have lots of letters after your name but it’s fine if you do.

Ideally you will want to continue to get better irrespective of how much experience you have.

We actively encourage all of our team members to grow and have lots of experience in mentoring and developing the team.

Get in touch if you’d like to know more.

Our Top 5 Brushing Tips

matthew@nuwavedesign.co.uk (Matthew McAuliffe) — Thu, 02 Apr 2020 07:27:38 GMT

Brush at least twice a day, once after waking and once before bed. Brushing twice a day for 2 minutes reduces decay by 50%. If you’re staying home like most of us right now try adding an extra brushing session after lunch.
Not after acidic food or drinks, such as orange juice or wine accelerates the loss of enamel. Once lost, enamel cannot be repaired.
Fluoride is your friend. Only use a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Not all toothpastes contain this! Fluoride strengthens the outer most layer of enamel, increasing its resistance to decay, acid damage and cavities.
Spit don’t rinse. Rinsing your mouth with water or mouthwash washes away the fluoride you have just put on your teeth. Fluoride helps strengthen the enamel. By rinsing, you’re removing the very thing protecting your teeth.
Invest in an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes have added features such as smaller heads to access difficult areas, two minute timers and pressure sensors to ensure you’re brushing gently and not damaging your gums.

Silver Linings

matthew@nuwavedesign.co.uk (Matthew McAuliffe) — Wed, 18 Mar 2020 08:26:02 GMT

It’s safe to say that life is feeling very gloomy at the moment. It’s definitely going to get worse before it gets better. I don’t think many people doubt that.

A patient today resigned themselves to having to spend the next 12 weeks self-isolation as they now fall into the ‘vulnerable’ category of patients. Two days ago his daughter, whom he hadn’t spoken to in over 5 years, got in touch to make sure he was ok. My patient was happy to say that this amazing outcome alone has made the situation bearable.

The storm clouds may be gathering but don’t forget to look for the silver linings.

A Little Trip To The Dentist (Part 2- Weaning Safely)

matthew@nuwavedesign.co.uk (Matthew McAuliffe) — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 09:06:46 GMT

Healthy weaning is closely linked with good oral health, so it’s important parents understand how to get the most from introducing their baby to solid foods, to protect their developing teeth.

The transition to solids can be a tricky and sometimes confusing for families, but there are a host of useful guides and tips out there to help them through their weaning journeys.

One of the most important things to remember is that babies don’t need salt or sugar added to their food. Salty foods aren’t good for kidneys and sugar can cause tooth decay. To begin with, babies should be introduced to single vegetables and fruits, including those which aren’t so sweet to ensure they get used to a range of flavours and textures.

Where a baby might be struggling with sour or more plain flavours, parents can try mixing in sweeter fruits such as bananas to help make it more palatable.

An open or free-flow cup should also be introduced at the earliest opportunity, as drinking through a teat means liquid flows more slowly and is in contact with teeth for longer – plus the muscles developed during sipping are the same ones used for talking.

Taking a little trip to the dentist, even before babies’ first teeth come through, is also vital in developing positive oral health routines and protecting from tooth decay. Families should visit us regularly.

A little trip to the dentist

matthew@nuwavedesign.co.uk (Matthew McAuliffe) — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 10:19:18 GMT

We’re proud to be showing our support for a new campaign in the East Midlands, which is encouraging more families and pregnant women to take A Little Trip To The Dentist as early as possible.

Every 10 minutes a child in England is admitted to hospital to have a rotten tooth removed, and only around one in five under twos have visited the dentist. The campaign is advising parents to make appointments for their babies early, even before teeth come through, to ensure they get the advice they need to develop healthy routines as soon as possible.

While a dentist might not get to look inside a baby’s mouth, these visits can help the family get used to the sights, sounds and smells of a practice, making later check -ups easier and more comfortable.

Pregnant women are also being encouraged to keep up with their regular visits, as the hormonal changes a woman goes through can increase their risk of gum disease or other issues. It also allows a dentist to help parents-to-be prepare for the arrival of their baby, giving useful advice on how to give them the very best start .

Appointments are free for babies and children or young people under 18 at The Maltings Dental Practice in Grantham.