Frequently asked questions
Q. How often should I go to the dentist?
A. In the absence of active disease we advise that adult and child patients are examined once a year. The examination, external and in the mouth, allows for an assessment of oral cancer, dental caries, periodontal (gum) disease and other factors and is accompanied by x-rays where appropriate. X-rays are used to confirm the presence and absence of disease. An examination allows discussion on an agreed treatment plan, if required, and costs. An examination often leads into agreement on a maintenance programme, prevention being economically and dentally the preferred outcome.
Where active disease is present the intervals between examinations will be discussed with you.
Q. I have lost many or all my natural teeth. Should I attend for an examination?
A. It is very important to have regular dental examinations irrespective of the number of teeth you have. If you have lost all your teeth, the examination allows an assessment for oral cancer and the health of the tissues in your mouth which are now the foundations for dentures. The appointment allows for discussion around the function of your denture(s), what you like or dislike about them, and the health of the tissues contacting the denture(s). The appointment allows time to discuss changes that may be required either for the health of your oral tissues or to the dentures. This may include discussion around the role of implants if suitable. We consider this so important that we allow 45 minutes for the consultation if it is the first time you have attended the practice for the first time.
Q. At what age should my child attend a dentist?
A. One year of age is a good time for your baby’s first dental check-up. The examination is done with your baby on your lap. Your baby may have up to eight front teeth at the time. The visit allows for examination of those teeth but also the mouth in general. Most importantly, it allows for a conversation around dental care for young children, dietary advice and oral hygiene.
Q. I am pregnant, is it safe to attend a dentist?
A. Yes. We encourage all our pregnant patients to attend for a dental check-up early in their pregnancy as this allows us to discuss their dental needs during the pregnancy, recognising any fears they may have for their health and the health of their baby during this precious time. In keeping with international practice, we will plan to defer all treatment that may be deferred until after baby is born. We will discuss with you any treatment that may be required and the best time to do that treatment. Generally, our primary aim is to help you maintain a healthy mouth with the help of our hygienist. You may be aware that your gum health is easily challenged during pregnancy due to all the hormonal changes in your body. A suitable hygiene programme will help you maintain a healthy and comfortable mouth safely.
It is also a good time to talk and get advice on baby’s early dental needs and care. All of this is done in a clean and safe environment.
Q. How do I know if I am eligible under the DTBS (“PRSI”) Scheme?
A. The DTBS Scheme is a prior approval scheme. You can check your eligibility here. In order for us to confirm your eligibility you need to bring your PPS number when you attend for an examination or to have your teeth cleaned.
Q. What am I entitled to under the DTBS Scheme?
A. Eligibility allows a free examination, and x-rays if they are appropriate at that time, once a calendar year. The Scheme contributes to an annual scale and polish, which we charge either €15 or €40 as is allowed.
Q. What if I require treatment that you do not do?
A. As a general practice we undertake most dental treatments. However, we do recognise that sometimes our colleagues may have skills and experience best suited to your needs. Over 25 years, we have worked closely with a trusted group of oral surgeons, orthodontists, periodontists and endodontists who can help should the situation require.
Q. What type of filling am I likely to get if I need one?
A. There are two types of filling materials commonly used, dental amalgam (‘a silver filling’) and a composite filling material (‘tooth coloured filling’). Dental amalgam was the filling of choice previously but the improvement in materials has allowed composite materials to be placed with more predictable long-term outcomes. An EU Regulation (2017/852) came into force on 1st January 2018 with the objective of phasing down the use of dental amalgam for environmental reasons. Composite filling material has become the filling material of choice in most circumstances but the choice of material remains open to discussion.
Q. What if I require treatment that you do not do?
A. As a general practice we undertake most dental treatments. However, we do recognise that sometimes our colleagues may have skills and experience best suited to your needs. Over 25 years, we have worked closely with a trusted group of oral surgeons, orthodontists, periodontists and endodontists who can help should the situation require.
Q. Why would I attend a hygienist?
A. Our hygienist is central to our philosophy in helping you prevent dental diseases and maintain a healthy mouth. Our hygienist works in 30-minute sessions to clean your teeth and offer other preventive dental care. Our hygienist will guide you on ways to improve and maintain good dental health.
Q. How often should I attend a hygienist?
A. There is no stock answer to this question. We are all individuals with our own personal needs. We assess everyone on an individual basis. In broad terms, the vast majority of patients benefit from the help of our hygienist at least twice a year but many avail of hygienist treatment perhaps three or possibly four times a year. We will discuss with you the health of your gums and your previous dental history. In addition, we will be able to assess the responses to the initial hygiene programme to establish and maintain oral health. This will open up discussion of your needs and how best we may be able to help you.
Q. Can children attend a hygienist?
A. Yes. One is never too young to establish a hygiene programme and get dietary advice to protect teeth and gums. Regular visits allow us to give advice on preventative measures that may avoid future fillings or bleeding gums.