Face
Dentistry
The simple answer is “Yes – dentistry can give you a headache” – and I am not just speaking about the unexpected emergency fee! Let me explain here how patients often do not associate symptoms with dentistry.
I recently had a new patient visit me as they had just moved to the area and during our New Patient Consultation I always check what we call in the business, ‘the function of the TMJ joint’. In other words we are looking to see that you can use your jaw muscles and joints efficiently and without pain as this can have such an impact on the quality of your life. The gentleman in question had recently had a crown placed at his previous dental practice and it certainly was a beautiful looking crown. My consultation however, revealed that my patient had started to suffer from headaches. He told me that there was tenderness in the side of the face and this radiated into headaches, which was particularly painful on waking in the morning. Further investigation revealed what I suspected – that the new crown was not in harmony with the jaw joint interfering with the function of his jaw. The new crown was also quite tender, however, he had put this down to it settling in after treatment.
This had gone on for several months and had started to impact on his sleep meaning that my patient found it tricky to focus at work and his partner was accusing him of being a Grumpy Old Man! Unfortunately I have seen many cases where this has gone unrecognised and untreated as TMJD is generally an optional postgraduate study. To compound the problem many other healthcare professionals are not aware of the dental solution for TMJ treatment. In untreated cases this can result in the development of an anxiety disorder or depression, as the feelings of frustration and defeat increase as the pain remains. I am grateful to work at Evolve Dentistry, where this disorder is recognised and I have the opportunity to literally change patients’ lives. How do I do this?
Once I have the diagnosis then sometimes it is a simple case of adjusting the bite of the patient and this I would do in the course of the consultation. In this case, my patient and I decided that a de-programming appliance would be the best treatment option. His appliance once adjusted after it was made in the laboratory ensuring a bespoke fit for this patient. The great news is that I can report that the patient found relief from his headaches within a fortnight of wearing the appliance at night and most importantly to him, his partner was delighted to see him like his old self again. The key message here is that patients do not always associate their facial pain and headaches with dental care, so it is important to attend for regular examinations not just for your oral health but also for your total well-being.
If you suspect you maybe suffering from a TMJ disorder or you have a family, friend or colleague who has these symptoms then contact one of Evolve’s friendly and efficient Welcome Team to find out more information or to book your consultation by calling 01275 842550 today.
Dr Jonathan Sproson
Dr Jonathan Sproson is a General and Cosmetic Dentist at Evolve Dentistry and was a previous finalist for Dentist of the Year in National Dental Awards.
He started to study TMJ disorders when he started seeing more complex cosmetic cases. This was to ensure the longevity of the work he does for his patients.
From here TMJD became a particular special interest and now enjoys the huge professional reward that comes from relieving patients’ of the cycle of despair they find themselves in when they suffer pain from TMJD.
Jonathan is a member of the British Society of Occlusal Studies as well as a Full Member of The British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He regularly lectures to other professionals on TMJD and is passionate about collaborating with other medics and body therapists to help patients with TMJD.
🎉 Portishead Carnival is almost here! 🎉
We’re looking forward to joining the community and watching the fantastic Portishead Carnival parade as it makes its way through town.
The carnival is always a wonderful celebration of everything that makes Portishead special - local groups, businesses, charities and volunteers coming together to create a fantastic day for everyone to enjoy.
If you’re heading along, keep an eye out for the colourful floats, amazing costumes and plenty of community spirit. We can’t wait to see all the hard work that has gone into making this year’s parade another memorable event.
Have a wonderful carnival weekend, and if you spot any of the Evolve team along the route, be sure to say hello! 😊
#PortisheadCarnival #Portishead #CommunitySpirit #SupportLocal #PortisheadEvents #NorthSomerset #EvolveDentistry #PortisheadMarina #PatientsFirst #HealthySmiles
✨ “I’d definitely recommend Evolve.” ✨
When David first came to see us, he was unhappy with the appearance of his teeth and felt self-conscious about how wonky they looked.
He told us that his confidence had been affected so much that he would often keep his mouth closed when talking.
Like many patients, David was nervous about starting treatment, but our team took the time to listen, answer his questions and support him every step of the way.
Using teeth straightening followed by composite bonding, we helped David achieve the smile he had always wanted - and in just 9 months.
For David, the biggest change wasn’t just his teeth. It was feeling confident enough to smile, speak and be himself again.
Thank you, David, for trusting us with your smile and for sharing your experience.
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #straighterteetheveryday #straighterteeth #newpatients #naturalteeth #healthysmiles #smilemakeovers #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #adultbraces #adultbracesuk #gapsinteeth
🦷 How often should you visit the dentist?
It’s one of the questions we’re asked most often, and the answer might surprise you.
Many people assume everyone should visit every six months, but that’s not always the case. Some patients may only need to see us every 12 months, while others benefit from more frequent visits every three or four months.
The right interval depends on factors such as your oral health, risk of tooth decay, gum health and any ongoing treatment.
In today’s Two Thirty video, Richard explains why dental review appointments are tailored to each individual and how regular visits help us spot potential problems before they become bigger issues.
Take a look at the video to learn more, and if you’re unsure when your next review is due, our team will be happy to help.
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #healthysmiles #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #oralhealth #preventivedentistry #dentalhealth #smilemonth #newpatients
✨ Why are so many patients choosing Angel Aligners? ✨
If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth but are worried about noticeable braces, Angel Aligners could be the perfect solution.
In today’s video, Yasmin explains why patients love Angel Aligners. The clear aligners are comfortable, removable and incredibly discreet, meaning most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.
But it’s not just patients who love them.
As a dentist, Yasmin values the flexibility Angel Aligners provide. By carefully placing attachments on the teeth, she can achieve precise movements and help treat more complex cases than many people realise.
The result? A straighter smile with a treatment that fits around your everyday life.
Watch the video below to hear Yasmin explain why Angel Aligners have become such a popular choice for patients looking to transform their smile.
📩 If you’re considering teeth straightening, get in touch to arrange a consultation with our team.
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #straighterteetheveryday #straighterteeth #newpatients #naturalteeth #healthysmiles #smilemakeovers #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #braces #adultbraces #adultbracesuk #gapsinteeth
Are dental X-rays safe? 🤔
It’s one of the questions we’re asked most often - and in this video, Richard explains why modern dental X-rays use very low levels of radiation and play an important role in protecting your oral health.
Dental X-rays help us spot problems that may not be visible during a normal examination, including decay between teeth, infections, bone loss and other hidden issues - often before they become more serious.
At Evolve Dentistry, we only recommend X-rays when clinically necessary and always keep radiation exposure as low as possible.
Watch the video to hear Richard explain more. 👇
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #healthysmile #healthysmiles #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #dentalxrays #oralhealth #preventivedentistry #healthyteeth #dentalcare #patienteducation
Today is World Environment Day 🌍
At Evolve Dentistry, we’re always looking at ways we can reduce our environmental impact while continuing to provide high-quality patient care.
Over the years, we’ve introduced a number of changes within the practice
🦷 Using digital scanners instead of traditional impressions
📄 Reducing paper usage through digital systems and communication
☕ Choosing paper cups rather than plastic alternatives
🌱 Using environmentally friendly materials and products where we can
Modern dentistry is constantly evolving, and we believe small changes can make a big difference over time.
Thank you to our patients for supporting a practice that is always striving to improve - not just for our patients, but for the environment too. 💚
#WorldEnvironmentDay #Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #digitaldentistry #sustainability #environmentallyfriendly #oralhealth #paperlesspractice
