Services
Our services
We offer a wide range of services, including preventative care, restorative treatments, and cosmetic procedures, all designed to meet the unique needs of each patient. To maintain good oral health we are also supported by a dental hygienist who is available for appointments on Wednesdays and Thursdays. On this page we outline some common dental treatments carried out at our practice.
Your dental examination
A dental examination is a thorough assessment of your oral health. During the exam, your dentist will typically perform the following steps:
Review your medical history: You will be asked about your overall health and any medications you are taking, as some medications can have an impact on your oral health.
Perform an oral cancer screening: Your dentist will look for signs of oral cancer by examining your mouth, throat, and neck for any abnormal lumps, bumps, or other signs.
Check for cavities and tooth decay: Your dentist will use a small mirror and dental instrument to examine your teeth and look for any signs of decay or cavities.
Evaluate your gums: Your dentist will use a special tool called a periodontal probe to measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums. This will help them determine whether you have any gum disease or gingivitis.
Assess your bite: Your dentist will check to see how your teeth come together when you bite down, as well as any issues with jaw alignment or bite patterns.
Take X-rays: Your dentist may take X-rays to get a more detailed view of your teeth and jaw, which can help identify any problems that may not be visible during the visual exam.
Provide a cleaning: If necessary, your dentist will clean your teeth by removing plaque and tartar buildup and polishing your teeth.
Once your exam is complete, your dentist will discuss their findings with you and make recommendations for any necessary treatments or follow-up care. They may also provide tips on how to improve your oral hygiene routine at home to maintain optimal oral health.
Hygienist appointments
An appointment with a dental hygienist is an important part of maintaining good oral health. During the appointment, the dental hygienist will typically perform the following steps:
Oral health assessment: The dental hygienist will begin by reviewing your medical history and conducting an oral health assessment to evaluate the overall health of your teeth, gums, and mouth.
Dental cleaning: The dental hygienist will use special tools to clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar buildup, and polishing them to a smooth finish.
Oral hygiene education: The dental hygienist will provide guidance on how to properly care for your teeth and gums at home, including recommendations for brushing and flossing techniques, and tips for maintaining good oral hygiene.
Gum disease evaluation: The dental hygienist will assess the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums to check for signs of gum disease.
Treatment plan: Based on the results of the oral health assessment, cleaning, and evaluation, the dental hygienist may recommend further treatment or follow-up care, such as fluoride treatments, sealants, or additional cleanings.
Throughout the appointment, the dental hygienist will work closely with you to answer any questions you may have and ensure that you feel comfortable and informed about your oral health. With regular visits to a dental hygienist, you can help prevent dental problems and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.
X-rays
Dental X-rays are an important diagnostic tool used to help your dentist evaluate your oral health. Here is what you can typically expect during the process of getting a dental X-ray:
Preparation: Your dentist will ask you to bite down on a small piece of plastic to hold the X-ray sensor in place.
Positioning: Your dentist will then position the X-ray machine so that it is aligned with your mouth. You may be asked to hold still or to bite down on the plastic piece to help ensure a clear image.
Exposure: Your dentist will then activate the X-ray machine, which will emit a small amount of radiation. The X-ray will typically take only a few seconds to capture the necessary images.
Interpretation: After the X-ray is taken, your dentist will review the images to assess your oral health. Dental X-rays can help your dentist identify a wide range of oral health issues, including cavities, gum disease, and bone loss.
Dental X-rays are a safe and effective diagnostic tool that can help your dentist provide the best possible care for your oral health. If you have any concerns about dental X-rays or radiation exposure, be sure to speak with your dentist.
White fillings
A white filling, also known as a composite filling, is a type of dental restoration that is used to repair a cavity or tooth decay. Here is what you can typically expect during the process of getting a white filling:
Anesthesia: Before the filling procedure begins, your dentist will typically numb the area around the tooth being treated with a local anesthetic to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
Removal of decay: Once the anesthesia has taken effect, your dentist will use a dental drill to remove the decayed portion of the tooth.
Preparation of the tooth: After the decay has been removed, your dentist will prepare the tooth for the filling by cleaning and shaping the cavity.
Placement of the filling: Your dentist will then place the composite filling material into the cavity and shape it to match the natural contour of your tooth.
Curing the filling: Once the filling is in place, your dentist will use a special light to harden the composite material and bond it to the tooth.
Polishing: Finally, your dentist will polish the filling to smooth out any rough edges and ensure that it looks and feels natural.
The entire process is usually completed in a single appointment. After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort in the treated area, but this should subside within a few days. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, a white filling can last for many years and help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
Extractions
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. Here is what you can typically expect during the process of getting a tooth extraction:
Evaluation: Your dentist will evaluate the affected tooth and determine whether an extraction is the best option for treating the problem. This may involve taking X-rays to assess the tooth and the surrounding bone.
Anesthesia: Before the extraction begins, your dentist will typically numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
Tooth extraction: Your dentist will then use specialised tools to loosen the tooth from its socket and remove it from the bone. Depending on the complexity of the extraction, your dentist may need to make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth.
Post-extraction care: After the tooth has been extracted, your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for the extraction site, including tips for brushing and flossing around the area and advice on avoiding hard or sticky foods that could irritate the extraction site. You may also be prescribed pain medication or antibiotics to prevent infection and manage any discomfort.
Follow-up: Your dentist may schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your healing progress and ensure that there are no complications or infections.
The entire process of getting a tooth extraction typically takes one appointment, but the recovery time can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and the individual patient. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, you can prevent the need for future extractions and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
Root canal treatment
A root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure used to treat and save a tooth that has become infected or damaged at the pulp level. Here is what you can typically expect during the process of getting a root canal treatment:
Anesthesia: Before the root canal procedure begins, your dentist will typically numb the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
Accessing the pulp: Once the anesthesia has taken effect, your dentist will create a small access hole in the top of the affected tooth to reach the infected or damaged pulp.
Removing the infected or damaged pulp: Your dentist will then use specialised tools to remove the infected or damaged pulp from the inside of the tooth.
Cleaning and shaping the root canal: After the pulp has been removed, your dentist will clean and shape the inside of the root canal to prepare it for filling.
Filling the root canal: Your dentist will then fill the cleaned and shaped root canal with a special filling material to prevent further infection and restore the strength of the tooth.
Placing a crown or filling: After the root canal procedure is complete, your dentist may place a crown or filling over the tooth to provide additional support and protection.
The entire process of getting a root canal treatment typically takes one or two appointments, depending on the severity of the infection or damage. After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort in the treated area, but this should subside within a few days. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can last for many years and help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
Crowns
A dental crown, also known as a dental cap, is a tooth-shaped covering that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Here is what you can typically expect during the process of getting a crown:
Evaluation: Your dentist will evaluate the affected tooth and determine whether a crown is the best option for restoring its function and appearance.
Anesthesia: Before the crown procedure begins, your dentist will typically numb the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
Tooth preparation: Your dentist will then remove any decayed or damaged parts of the tooth and shape it to prepare it for the crown. This may involve filing or shaping the tooth, or building it up with filling material to support the crown.
Impressions: Once the tooth has been prepared, your dentist will take impressions or moulds of the tooth and the surrounding teeth to ensure a proper fit for the crown.
Temporary crown: While the permanent crown is being made, your dentist will place a temporary crown over the tooth to protect it and maintain its function.
Placement of the permanent crown: Once the permanent crown is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent crown over the tooth, ensuring that it fits properly and matches the colour of your surrounding teeth.
Post-treatment care: After the crown procedure is complete, your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for your new crown, including tips for brushing and flossing, and advice on avoiding hard or sticky foods that could damage the crown.
The entire process of getting a crown takes two appointments. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, a crown can last for many years and help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
Re-cementing a crown
A dental crown may become loose or fall out for a variety of reasons, including decay, trauma, or simply wear and tear over time. When this happens, it is important to have the crown re-cemented as soon as possible to avoid further damage or infection to the affected tooth. Here is what you can typically expect during the process of re-cementing a crown:
Evaluation: Your dentist will evaluate the affected tooth and the crown to determine whether re-cementing is the best option for restoring its function and appearance.
Cleaning: Your dentist will clean the crown and the affected tooth to remove any debris or bacteria that may have accumulated.
Reshaping: If necessary, your dentist will reshape the tooth to ensure a proper fit for the crown.
Cementing: Your dentist will then apply a special dental cement to the crown and carefully place it over the affected tooth, ensuring that it fits properly and is securely bonded in place.
Post-treatment care: After the crown has been re-cemented, your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for it, including tips for brushing and flossing, and advice on avoiding hard or sticky foods that could damage the crown.
The process of re-cementing a crown typically takes one appointment, depending on the complexity of the procedure. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, a re-cemented crown can continue to provide many years of function and help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
Bridges
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of two or more dental crowns that are anchored to the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth (or teeth) in between. Here is what you can typically expect during the process of getting a dental bridge:
Evaluation: Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and determine whether a dental bridge is the best option for replacing your missing tooth or teeth. This may involve taking X-rays to assess the health of your remaining teeth and the surrounding bone.
Preparation: Your dentist will then prepare the teeth on either side of the gap by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the dental crowns. Your dentist may also take impressions of your teeth to create a customised bridge that fits your mouth perfectly.
Temporary bridge: While your permanent bridge is being fabricated in a dental lab, your dentist will provide a temporary bridge to protect your teeth and gums.
Fitting: Once your permanent bridge is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and fit the permanent bridge in place. Your dentist will ensure that the bridge fits properly and feels comfortable in your mouth.
Post-treatment care: After the bridge has been placed, your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for it, including tips for brushing and flossing around the bridge and advice on avoiding hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge.
The process of getting a dental bridge typically takes two appointments over the course of a few weeks. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, a dental bridge can provide many years of function and help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
Dentures
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. Here is what you can typically expect during the process of getting dentures:
Evaluation: Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and determine whether dentures are the best option for replacing your missing teeth. This may involve taking X-rays to assess the health of your remaining teeth and the surrounding bone.
Impression: Your dentist will take impressions of your mouth to create a customised set of dentures that fit your mouth perfectly. This will involve using a special putty-like material that is placed in a tray and then inserted into your mouth to create an impression.
Wax try-in: Once your dentures have been fabricated, your dentist may have you try them on in wax form to ensure that they fit properly and feel comfortable in your mouth.
Final fitting: After any necessary adjustments have been made, your dentist will provide you with your final set of dentures. Your dentist will ensure that the dentures fit properly and feel comfortable in your mouth.
Post-treatment care: After the dentures have been placed, your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for them, including tips for cleaning and maintenance. You may also need to schedule regular appointments to have your dentures adjusted or relined as your mouth changes over time.
The process of getting dentures typically takes several appointments over the course of a few weeks. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dentures can provide many years of function and help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
Veneers
A veneer is a thin shell made of porcelain or composite material that is custom-made to fit over the front surface of a tooth. Here is what you can typically expect during the process of getting a veneer:
Consultation and evaluation: Before getting a veneer, you will have a consultation with your dentist to discuss the process and determine whether veneers are a good option for you. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health, take X-rays and impressions of your teeth, and discuss the desired outcome for your smile.
Preparation: To prepare for a veneer, your dentist will remove a thin layer of enamel from the surface of your tooth to create space for the veneer. This is typically done under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Once the enamel is removed, your dentist will take an impression of your tooth to create a custom veneer that fits perfectly.
Temporary veneer: While your custom veneer is being created in a dental laboratory, your dentist will place a temporary veneer on your tooth. This temporary veneer is made of acrylic and is meant to protect your tooth while you wait for the permanent veneer.
Bonding: Once your custom veneer is ready, your dentist will bond it to your tooth using a dental adhesive. Before bonding the veneer in place, your dentist will carefully check the fit and color to ensure it looks natural and matches the surrounding teeth.
Final adjustments: After the veneer is bonded in place, your dentist will make any final adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and bite. This may involve trimming the veneer or adjusting your bite to ensure your teeth come together properly.
Post-treatment care: Your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for your new veneer, which may include avoiding certain foods or habits that can damage the veneer. You may also need to schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure the veneer is properly integrated into your smile.
Veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment that can help improve the appearance of chipped, stained, or misshapen teeth. With proper care and maintenance, veneers can last for many years, providing a beautiful, natural-looking smile.
Useful external links
We believe that good dental health involves ongoing education and self-care. That's why we've put together a list of external resources related to dental health, including trusted organisations and informative websites. Explore these resources and learn more about how you can take care of your oral health between visits.Â
NHS stop smoking services - provides useful information about stopping smoking
Drinkaware - provides useful information on reducing alcohol intake
Mouth cancer foundation - charity website for the support, information and awareness of mouth, head and neck cancers