Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What do I do if I cannot make my appointment?
Q2. Tell me about your fees for treatment.
Q3. Why do my gums bleed?
Q4. What are the causes of bad breath?
Q5. Why are my teeth sensitive when I eat something hot or cold?
Q6. What is the best toothpaste?
Q7. What is the best toothbrush to use?
Q8. How can I check that I am cleaning my teeth effectively?

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Q1. What do I do if I cannot make my appointment?

If you are unable to attend for treatment please try to give at least 24 hours notice, enabling us to treat others (who may be in pain).
We normally charge a fee for a missed appointment or if insufficient notice is given when cancelling an appointment.

Q2. Tell me about your fees for treatment.

Fees for treatment are payable after each visit unless alternative arrangements are made in advance.
Our charges vary according to the complexity of work involved.  Written estimates are provided for larger courses of treatment.

We will keep you informed if unforeseen circumstances lead to any changes in our estimate.
We accept payment by cash, cheque, credit and debit cards.

If you would prefer to spread the cost of your basic treatment please enquire about our Options Plan.

For more complex treatment you can arrange to spread the cost through a Direct Debit system.

Q3. Why do my gums bleed?

After cleaning your teeth a film of saliva forms. After eating, bacteria in the film convert any sugar in your food to a starch causing dental plaque. If this is not removed, tartar formation can occur.  This can lead to irritation and bleeding gums.

Plaque can be removed by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily.

Q4. What are the causes of bad breath?

Bad breath is mainly caused by dental problems including cavities (holes) in teeth and periodontal (gum) disease.

This can be prevented by good oral hygiene which includes cleaning your tongue.

Q5. Why are my teeth sensitive when I eat something hot or cold?

Teeth are sensitive for many reasons.

The most common ones are over-brushing or using an abrasive toothpaste.

Sensitivity can be controlled by using a desensitising toothpaste (for example Sensodyne Pronamel) or by asking your dentist to apply a varnish.

Sensitivity can also be due to a cavity (hole) or a defective filling. In such cases, it is important to consult your dentist to have a thorough examination and any appropriate treatment carried out.

Q6. What is the best toothpaste?

A good toothpaste should contain fluoride and a mild abrasive. A substance called triclosan is also useful (it helps to stop plaque bacteria adhering to teeth).  Some toothpastes are very abrasive and can cause substantial erosion (tooth loss).

Our team is very happy to advise on the most suitable product for you.

Q7. What is the best toothbrush to use?

A good toothbrush should have a soft or medium texture with a small or medium-sized head.

Rechargeable electric toothbrushes with a timer are preferable to manual ones.

Q8. How can I check that I am cleaning my teeth effectively?

Tests have shown that it takes two minutes to clean your teeth effectively.

Once a week after brushing your teeth, use a plaque disclosing tablet (which contains a dye).

This stains any areas which still have a coating of plaque. Clean the teeth again until no plaque is visible.