FAQs
Why do you ask for a copy of my previous Xray(s) before I visit your clinic for the first time?
If you’ve seen a dentist in the last 18 months and have had Xray(s) taken, we encourage you to request a copy for your record and email it to us. XRays are usually digital, and the process should be quick and easy. If existing XRays are good, the benefits are that you could avoid being exposed to unnecessary radiation (although the amount of radiation is very small) and this helps us arrange an appropriate appointment time and better prepare.
Can I be treated at your clinic if I live outside your area?
Yes, there are no geographical restrictions.
How do you put nervous patients at ease?
Many people feel nervous visiting a dentist. It is common. The reasons are often deep rooted, from things like a past traumatic experience of heavy, invasive treatment or from not being given proper information or being involved in the decision-making process of treatments, etc. For some it will take much more than ‘good dentistry’ to rid this fear. We are proud that a large proportion of nervous patients that visit us end up being considerably less nervous and a few even lose the fear altogether. Our practice is clean, and many say it has a pleasant, homely feel. Our staff are friendly, and we are never in a rush when dealing with patients. We try to put patients at ease by explaining the merits of everything we do and seek the patients’ approval before treatment. We use educational material to demonstrate procedures if necessary. We can provide anaesthetics for any treatment that is likely to hurt: The injection can be uncomfortable but will only take a few seconds. We can use a topical anaesthetic on the skin in the mouth which dulls the feeling of the needle. However, in extreme cases where sedation is required, we do not provide this service but can refer you to appropriate centres.
Will my appointment be on time?
We understand that it is in everyone’s interest to ensure that appointments run efficiently and on time. We do our best through preparation to ensure treatments run smoothly and on time. However, for reasons that are often outside of our control, we do run late sometimes, though we try to keep disruptions to a minimum. Some of these reasons could include unforeseen complications in treatment, having to accommodate an emergency patient or lack of understanding or agreement when discussing treatment plans leading to further explanation. If delays become unreasonable and lengthy, we will do our best to inform you as soon as possible and rearrange an alternative appointment.
Will I be seen if I’m late for my appointment?
We will do our best to accommodate you if we can. However, if there isn’t enough time to carry out your consultation or treatment, then we would treat your lateness as a missed appointment.
Why do you take a deposit for Private appointments?
(For non-NHS appointments only). We take a proportion of the total fee as Deposit to confirm appointments. This is used to cover some basic costs if the appointment is cancelled without sufficient notice for us to refill the slot. However, we work hard at sending multiple reminders, as well as the effort to refill appointment gaps so as to not charge the deposit paid.