Ashbourne

Mouthguards: Protect Your Smile

When it comes to protecting our bodies during physical activity, we often focus on wearing helmets, knee pads, and other protective gear. However, one area that is frequently overlooked is the mouth. Whether you’re an athlete or someone who wants to safeguard against dental injuries, investing in a mouthguard/gum shield can be one of the smartest decisions you can make for your oral health.

Why do Mouthguards matter?

Mouthguards are crucial for safeguarding your teeth, gums, and jaw during various sports and activities. Mouthguards act as a cushion, absorbing the impact of blows or falls that could otherwise result in broken teeth, cut lips, or injuries to the tongue and cheeks. For athletes engaged in contact sports like football, rugby, or boxing, wearing a mouthguard can significantly reduce the risk of dental trauma, and in many cases, it is a mandatory requirement.

Who are they designed for?

Mouthguards aren’t just for kids on the soccer field or adults in the boxing ring – they’re essential for everyone, regardless of age. Whether you’re participating in sports or grappling with nighttime teeth grinding, mouthguards play a vital role in protecting your oral health and preserving your smile.

How many types of Gum Shields are there?

There are three types of gum shields available in Ireland, but not all of them meet sports regulation requirements:

Stock Gum Shield: Stock gum shields are pre-formed and ready to wear. They are inexpensive but can feel cumbersome and occasionally affect breathing or talking.
Boil and Bite Gum Shield: Boil and bite gum shields are moulded to your teeth and jaw structure in a basic way. Typically, you place the gum shield into warm water and bite as per the instructions to mould it. While they satisfy most sports clubs’ mandatory ruling, the CE mark must be on the packaging to indicate that it has met certain acceptable standards.
Custom Gum Shield: Custom gum shields are professionally fitted to your mouth by a dentist and offer the highest level of comfort and protection while meeting sports regulation requirements.

What makes dentist Mouthguards different from retail Mouthguards?

Dentist-fitted mouthguards offer several advantages over retail options, thanks to their custom design and professional craftsmanship:

Customisation: Dentist-fitted mouthguards are tailor-made to fit the unique contours of your mouth. Dentists take impressions of your teeth and gums, ensuring a precise and comfortable fit that offers maximum protection and stability.
Enhanced Protection: Custom-fitted mouthguards provide superior protection against impact and injury compared to off-the-shelf options. By conforming closely to the teeth and gums, they effectively absorb and distribute the force of impact, reducing the risk of dental trauma, jaw injuries, and concussions.
Durability and Longevity: Dentist-fitted mouthguards are crafted using high-quality materials and professional techniques, ensuring durability and longevity. Custom-fitted guards are designed to withstand regular use and maintain their shape and effectiveness for an extended period. This durability makes them a cost-effective investment in the long run.

How often should I change my Gum Shield?

Replacing your gum shield is recommended each year for a growing child, as their jaw and teeth arrangement will change. For adults, replacement is needed when the guard shows signs of wear. Bring your gum shield to your dental check-up so your dentist can assess whether or not it needs to be replaced.

If you would like to inquire about acquiring mouthguards in one of our dental practices around the country, please use our practice locator to find your local practice.

Fall in Love with Your Smile: Teeth Whitening

This Valentine’s Day, let’s not just celebrate romantic love, but also embrace the beauty of self-love. Join us as we explore how to unlock the radiance of your smile, not just for February 14th, but for every day that follows. Let us help you to radiate confidence and charm with a smile that captures hearts and leaves a lasting impression.

Am I a suitable for teeth whitening?

Finding out if teeth whitening is right for you starts with a thorough check-up with your dentist. Generally, professional teeth whitening is recommended for patients with healthy teeth and gums, free from issues like gum disease, tooth decay, or hypersensitivity.

What does the teeth whitening treatment involve?

Your dentist will work with you to establish your desired shade of white. Customised whitening trays will be created based on impressions of your teeth. These trays, along with a special whitening gel, will be provided for at-home use.

How long does the treatment take?

Teeth whitening typically involves using the trays and gel at home for approximately one hour per day over seven to 14 days, depending on your desired shade outcome.

How white will my teeth go?

The achievable shade of white varies based on your teeth’s initial color. Your dentist can provide insight into the likely outcome before beginning the treatment.

Will I feel pain or sensitivity?

It’s common to experience some sensitivity during the whitening process, but this usually subsides after treatment. Using a sensitive toothpaste before and during whitening may help alleviate discomfort, especially if you have sensitive teeth.

Does the teeth whitening treatment whiten crowns, veneers, or fillings?

No, teeth whitening only affects natural teeth. Restorations like crowns, veneers, or tooth-coloured fillings won’t whiten. If you have such restorations on your front teeth, you may consider replacing them after whitening to match your new tooth shade.

Are teeth whitening results permanent?

Results vary from person to person and may be influenced by lifestyle factors like smoking and consumption of staining foods and drinks. Annual touch-ups or as-needed applications of whitening gel can help maintain your brighter smile.

How can I maintain my brighter smile?

Consistent oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, is key to preserving your whitened teeth. Additionally, avoiding smoking, maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and scheduling regular dental visits for cleanings and check-ups are essential for long-term oral health.

Book yourself in for a teeth whitening treatment at one of our many practices all over Ireland.

Christmas Opening Hours 2023

Our Christmas opening hours are listed below, along with details of emergency clinics during the holiday period. All practices will return to normal opening hours from Wednesday, 3rd of January 2024.

We’d like to wish all our patients a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year.

Ashbourne, Co. Meath

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-17.30
Friday 22nd December: 08.30-13.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.00-17.30

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Ashbourne, see here.

Ballincollig, Co. Cork

Thursday 21st December: 08.30-18.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.00-13.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: 09.00-13.00
Friday 29th December: 08.00-12.00
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.30-17.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Ballincollig, see here.

Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 (Northumberland Dental Care)

Thursday 21st December: 07.30-17.30
Friday 22nd December: 07.30-13.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 07.30-17.30

For contact details of Northumberland Dental Care, see here.

Ballyowen, Lucan, Co. Dublin

Thursday 21st December: 08.00-17.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.00-17.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: 09.00-13.00
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.00-17.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Ballyowen, see here.

Beechwood Dental, Ranelagh, Co. Dublin

Thursday 21st December: 08.00-20.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.00-13.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.00-20.00

For contact details of Beechwood Dental, see here.

Cabinteely, Dublin 18

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-18.00
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-18.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: 09.00-13.00
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.00-19.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Cabinteely, see here.

Callan Dental, Co. Kilkenny

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-17.00
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-17.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: 08.30-11.00 emergencies only
Thursday 28th December: 08.30-11.00 emergencies only
Friday 29th December: 08.30-11.00 emergencies only
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.00-17.00

For contact details of Callan Dental, see here.

Carlow Town, Co. Carlow

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-19.00
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-17.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: 09.00-11.00
Thursday 28th December: 09.00-11.00
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.00-17.40

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Carlow, see here.

Castlebar, Co. Mayo

Thursday 21st December: 08.00-17.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.00-17.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.00-17.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Castlebar, see here.

Claregalway, Co. Galway

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-17.00
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-15.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.00-17.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Claregalway, see here.

Cork City, Co. Cork

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-18.00
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-18.00
Saturday 23rd December: 09.00-17.00
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: 10.00-14.00
Friday 29th December: 09.00-17.00
Saturday 30th December: 09.00-14.00
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.00-17.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Cork, see here.

Douglas, Co. Cork

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-19.45
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-17.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.00-19.45

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Douglas, see here.

Drogheda, Co. Louth

Thursday 21st December: 08.30-17.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.30-16.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: 11.00-15.00
Friday 29th December: 08.30-16.00
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.30-17.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Drogheda, see here.

Dundrum, Dublin 14

Thursday 21st December: 07.30-17.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.00-16.15
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.00-17.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Dundrum, see here.

Ennis, Co. Clare

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-17.30
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-17.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: Closed

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Ennis, see here.

Greystones, Co. Wicklow

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-17.30
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-16.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: 09.00-13.00
Thursday 28th December: 09.00-13.00
Friday 29th December: 09.00-13.00
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.00-17.30

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Greystones, see here.

Kells, Co. Meath

Thursday 21st December: 08.00-17.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.00-17.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: 09.00-13.00
Thursday 28th December: 09.00-14.00
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.00-17.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Kells, see here.

Kilbarrack, Dublin 5

Thursday 21st December: 08.30-19.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.00-17.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: 10.00-14.00
Friday 29th December: 10.00-14.00
Saturday 30th December: 10.00-14.00
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.00-18.30

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Kilbarrack, see here.

Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-17.30
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-16.30
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: 09.30-15.30
Thursday 28th December: 09.30-15.30
Friday 29th December: 09.30-15.30
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.00-17.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Kilkenny, see here.

Killarney, Co. Kerry

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-18.00
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-13.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: 09.00-17.00
Thursday 28th December: 09.00-13.00
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.00-18.00

Kimmage, Dublin 6W

Thursday 21st December: 08.00-18.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.00-13.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.00-20.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Kimmage, see here.

Knocklyon, Dublin 16

Thursday 21st December: 08.00-19.30
Friday 22nd December: 08.00-18.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: 09.00-16.00
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: 09.00-16.00
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.00-19.30

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Knocklyon, see here.

Limerick, Co. Limerick

Thursday 21st December: 09.30-17.30
Friday 22nd December: 09.30-17.30
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: 09.30-16.00
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.30-17.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Limerick, see here.

Molesworth Street, Dublin 2

Thursday 21st December: 08.00-18.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.00-15.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.00-18.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Molesworth, see here.

Navan, Co. Meath

Thursday 21st December: 08.00-17.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.00-17.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: 10.00-14.00
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: Closed

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Navan, see here.

Rathfarnham, Dublin

Thursday 21st December: 08.30-17.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.30-17.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.30-17.00

Sligo Town, Co. Sligo

Thursday 21st December: 08.15-17.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.15-16.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.15-17.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Sligo, see here.

Swords, Co. Dublin

Thursday 21st December: 08.00-16.30
Friday 22nd December: 08.00-14.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.00-16.30

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Swords, see here.

Tuam, Co. Galway

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-17.00
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-17.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: Closed
Wednesday 3rd January: 09.00-16.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Tuam, see here.

Virginia, Co. Cavan

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-17.00
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-15.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: 10.00-14.00 emergency only
Friday 29th December: 11.00-15.00 emergency only
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.00-18.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Virginia, see here.

Waterford City, Co. Waterford

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-18.00
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-18.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: 09.00-17.00
Friday 29th December: 09.00-17.00
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.00-18.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Waterford, see here.

Westport, Co. Mayo

Thursday 21st December: 09.00-18.00
Friday 22nd December: 09.00-17.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: Closed
Thursday 28th December: Closed
Friday 29th December: Closed
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 09.00-18.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Westport, see here.

Wexford Town, Co. Wexford

Thursday 21st December: 08.30-19.00
Friday 22nd December: 08.30-17.00
Saturday 23rd December: Closed
Sunday 24th December: Closed
Monday 25th December: Closed
Tuesday 26th December: Closed
Wednesday 27th December: 10.00-15.00
Thursday 28th December: 10.00-15.00
Friday 29th December: 10.00-15.00
Saturday 30th December: Closed
Sunday 31st December: Closed
Monday 1st January: Closed
Tuesday 2nd January: 08.30-19.00

For contact details of Dental Care Ireland Wexford, see here.

If you experience a dental emergency while your local Dental Care Ireland practice is closed during the Christmas period, you can contact an emergency service below:

Leinster:

Dublin Dental Hospital: (01) 6127391
VHI SwiftCare Dundrum: (01) 4482450
St James’s Hospital A&E: (01) 4103000
Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan, Co. Meath: (046) 9078770
NEDOC, Navan, Co. Meath: (046) 6850750
Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore: (057) 932 1501
Wexford General Hospital: (053) 9153000
Caredoc (South East & South Wicklow): 0818 300 365 or (059) 913 8100
Luke’s General Hospital Carlow/Kilkenny: (056) 7785000
Midoc: 1850 302 702

Munster:

Cork University Dental School & Hospital: (021) 4901100
University Hospital Limerick: (061) 301 111
Midoc: 1850 302 702

Connacht:

University College Galway: (091) 524222
Sligo University Hospital: 071 9171111
Caredoc Sligo: 0818 365 399
Westdoc: 1850 365 000

Ulster:

Caredoc (West Cavan): 0818 365 399

Vaping and Oral Health: What Do I Need To Know?

E-cigarettes have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among young adults and teenagers. The use of e-cigarettes, also known as vaping, is often seen as a safer alternative to smoking tobacco cigarettes. While this may be the case, there is mounting evidence to suggest that vaping still poses significant risks to oral health. Below, Dr Jennifer Collins, Clinical Director of Dental Care Ireland, discusses the harmful effects vaping has on our oral health.

Nicotine harms your oral health

E-cigarettes contain a liquid mixture of nicotine, flavourings, and other chemicals. When heated, the liquid turns into an aerosol, which is then inhaled. Nicotine is one of the most harmful chemicals found in e-cigarettes. It can cause a range of oral health problems, including gum disease and tooth loss. Nicotine also reduces blood flow to the gums, making it harder for them to heal from infections, injuries or dental procedures. This is why we advise you to avoid vaping after a dental procedure.

Nicotine can also cause yellow staining on your teeth. While this type of staining is usually associated with tobacco cigarettes, e-cigarettes can also do this to your teeth. If you wish to keep your smile pearly white, it is best to avoid vaping.

The flavourings used in e-cigarettes also pose a risk to oral health. Many of these flavourings contain chemicals that can irritate the mouth and throat. Some flavourings can also damage the enamel on the teeth, leading to tooth sensitivity and cavities.

Vaping can lead to dry mouth

Another issue with vaping is that it dries out the mouth. A dry mouth can lead to a host of oral health problems, including bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. When the mouth is dry, there is less saliva to wash away harmful bacteria, food particles, and other debris. This can lead to a build-up of plaque and tartar, which can cause cavities and gum disease.

Vaping is not a healthy habit

While we are only beginning to learn about the adverse effects of vaping for your oral health, it is becoming evident that vaping is not as safe as we may have initially assumed. However, e-cigarettes are certainly better for your oral health than tobacco cigarettes. This makes vaping a good segway for those trying to quit smoking, but it’s certainly not a good decision to start vaping from scratch! Unfortunately, we are seeing young people and teenagers beginning to vape even if they have never smoked before, which is not a trend we want to see.

Finally, if you do vape, make sure you are drinking plenty of water, keep up a good oral health routine, visit your dentist regularly, and do consider cutting back or quitting; your mouth will thank you for it!

If you would like to book a check-up with your local Dental Care Ireland practice, you can find our contact details here.

Looking for an Orthodontist in Ashbourne?

We are delighted to announce that Dental Care Ireland Ashbourne now offers full orthodontic service! Orthodontic treatment has become extremely popular throughout Ireland – no longer is it the preserve of young children and adolescents; now, people of all ages are interested in getting the treatment done to fix irregularly shaped teeth and, ultimately, to get a better smile.

Dr Heraclio Alves Barbosa Junior, also known as Leo, is our Orthodontist in Ashbourne with over 20 years of orthodontic experience. Below, he has outlined the types of braces available in Ashbourne and reasons why patients choose orthodontic treatment.

Types of braces in Ashbourne:

Traditional/Metal Braces:

Traditional/metal braces are made of individual brackets which are cemented to each tooth with an archwire attached to apply a continuous gentle pressure to the teeth.

Clear/Ceramic Braces:

Ceramic or “clear braces” work very similarly to traditional braces but are tooth coloured so that they blend in with your teeth and are much less noticeable.

Invisalign & Invisalign Go:

Invisalign is a clear aligner system that can effectively and discreetly straighten your teeth. Invisalign is comfortable and almost unnoticeable, making it an extremely popular method of teeth straightening.

Main reasons for having orthodontic treatment:

Appearance:

Many people seek orthodontic treatment to improve the appearance of their smile by straightening teeth and correcting any spacing. This also often improves the appearance of a patient’s face. By correcting any dental issues, a person’s facial features are also aligned with a view to making the face as symmetrical as possible.

Health:

Once a straighter smile is achieved, it becomes easier for you to take care of your oral health. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, brush and floss, which means it is less likely that you will suffer from tooth decay or gum disease down the line.

Function:

Correcting issues such as crooked teeth or spacing can improve the function of our teeth. This allows for better chewing which improves your digestion as food is properly chewed, where it may have not been before. If you have large spaces between your teeth, correcting this can also improve speech.

Braces are a safe, reliable and effective method for correcting teeth. If you are looking for an Orthodontist in Ashbourne, please contact our friendly team on (01) 835 0344 who can talk you through your options. Alternatively, you can visit our website.

Celebrating our award-winning dentist!

We are delighted to announce that our Ashbourne practice is an award-winning dentist, having scooped the Most Attractive Practice gong at the Irish Dentistry Awards

At Dental Care Ireland, we make sure to always put our patients first. That means that the patient experience has to be outstanding, every step of the way. Part of that experience involves investing in our practices themselves, ensuring patients are comfortable and relaxed in a state-of-the-art environment.

So we were delighted to see our efforts pay off at the recent Irish Dentistry Awards, at which our Ashbourne dental practice was honoured as the country’s Most Attractive Practice! Our entire team at the award-winning dentist is delighted with the honour.

Commenting on the award, Dental Care Ireland CEO Colm Davitt said: “We are so pleased that our Ashbourne practice has been named as Ireland’s Most Attractive Practice. We make sure patients are our number one priority, and this is a fantastic recognition of the work all our staff do to make sure the patient experience is second to none.

“I also want to thank the brilliant team in Mortar and More for their outstanding work in making sure the Ashbourne fit-out went so smoothly. This gives us another platform from which we can keep improving!”

The annual dentist awards highlight excellence in the Irish dental profession. From regular check-ups or toothaches to emergency treatments, dentists nationwide are nominated for going above and beyond normal when it comes to patient care.

Audrey O’Brien, practice manager in Ashbourne, says that it’s an exciting time for the award-winning dentist. “The people are so brilliant here, and it’s a pleasure to come into work every day. I’m so glad for the whole team – we’re over the moon that we have received this honour amidst really stiff competition.”

To find out more about Dental Care Ireland and the award-winning dentist in Ashbourne, to book an appointment online or to check your PRSI dental entitlements, get in touch with us by clicking this link and choosing your local dental practice

Ashbourne dentist a real part of the community

Dental Care Ireland is committed to providing an outstanding, community dental experience. If you are looking for an Ashbourne dentist, we can help

Our Ashbourne dentist is located on the Co Meath’s town’s High Street, and opened its doors in the summer of 2016 as Dental Care Ireland’s flagship dental practice. The practice was an instant success among the community, and celebrated welcoming its 5,000^th patient after just 24 months.

Its appeal has been recognised by being shortlisted in the most attractive practice category for the 2019 Irish Dentistry Awards, which take place on March 1^st.

Our Ashbourne dentist follows the Dental Care Ireland tradition of retaining existing staff after the rebrand, to ensure that we keep our links to the local community. It’s so important for us that people recognise and trust our reliable staff members.

We offer a number of dental treatments in our Ashbourne dentist, from root canal treatment and dental hygiene services, to orthodontics and general treatments like fillings and crowns. We’re delighted that our dental practice is led by Dr Cliona O’Brien, Dr Claire Burns, Dr David McGibney and hygienist Paula Lyons.

Audrey O’Brien, practice manager in Ashbourne, says that it’s a fantastic time for the Ashbourne dentist. “The people are so brilliant here, and it’s a pleasure to come into work every day.”

The practice itself is a point of pride for the staff, a feature that has proved very popular with patients. It has even starred in a video we made offering tips to make sure your child’s first trip to the dentist is a successful one!

Here at Dental Care Ireland, we pride ourselves on offering a fantastic, professional service with a smile. If you’re looking for an Ashbourne dentist, you know where to find us.

If you want to book an appointment with our Ashbourne dentist, please get in touch with our team. The dentist is open from 9am to 5.30pm on Mondays and Thursdays; from 9am to 7.30pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; and from 8.30am to 5pm on Fridays.

We provide quality braces in Ashbourne

At Dental Care Ireland, we want to ensure that our patients have a quality experience and can access any dental treatment. That’s why we offer the very best quality braces in Ashbourne

Orthodontic treatment has become extremely popular throughout Ireland – no longer is it the preserve of young children and adolescents; now, people of all ages are interested in getting the treatment done to fix irregularly shaped teeth and, ultimately, to get a better smile.

Our dental practices in Co Meath and indeed all over the country have seen interest in orthodontics among people of all ages, and our specialist orthodontist Dr Ciara Ennis offers all types of braces in Ashbourne from our fantastic location on High Street in the heart of the town.

But what type of braces should you get? Of course, it’s important to know the differences between the types when it comes to orthodontics. First off, Invisalign braces straighten teeth using a number of clear plastic aligners that are custom-made for each individual patient’s mouth; while ceramic braces are clear and “tooth-coloured” so they blend in with your teeth.

It is important to remember that there is also a functional reason to think about orthodontics – it’s not just because they look great and leave you with a brilliant smile! For example, many patients may find that food is continually getting stuck between teeth that are damaged or mis-shapen. This can itself lead to gum disease. With that in mind, it’s easy to understand the popularity of braces in Ashbourne and around the country.

Braces are safe, reliable and effective in correcting teeth. If you are interested in learning more about getting braces in Ashbourne, please contact our friendly team who can talk you through your options and what will work best for you after an initial consultation.

If you would like to enquire about braces in Ashbourne, please contact our team. The dental practice is open from 9am to 5.30pm on Mondays and Thursdays; from 9am to 7.30pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; and from 8.30am to 5pm on Fridays

Dentist in Ashbourne providing a valuable service

Dental Care Ireland is committed to providing an outstanding, community dental experience. If you need a dentist in Ashbourne, we can help

Our state-of-the-art dentist in Ashbourne celebrated its first anniversary recently, and welcomed its 5,000^th patient. It was a fantastic occasion for the practice, which has reinforced its position as a cornerstone of the community in the lovely Meath town.

Our practice in Ashbourne is made up of experienced, local dentists operating in a pristine environment, as a key Dental Care Ireland strategy is to retain existing staff when we take over the management of a dental practice. It’s so important for us that people recognise and trust our reliable staff members.

Audrey O’Brien, practice manager in Ashbourne, says that it’s an exciting time for the practice now that it has been open to the public for a sustained spell of time.

“The people are so brilliant here, and it’s a pleasure to come into work every day. I run the day-to-day management of the dentist in Ashbourne for Dental Care Ireland, making sure that patients and staff are where they need to be at all times,” she says.

“We’re a young group, and we’re all women!” says Audrey. “We have a hygienist, receptionist, two dentists, two nurses, and myself.”

The practice will also be starting a full orthodontic service in autumn 2018, led by specialist orthodontist Dr Ciara Ennis and catering for both adults and children.

The practice is a point of pride for the staff, which you can see in this virtual tour of the practice. It’s important that patients can have a look before they pop in to see the team.

Here at Dental Care Ireland, we pride ourselves on offering a fantastic, professional service with a smile. Our practices are an established and trusted part of the local community, and benefit from the very best, state-of-the-art training methods. If you’re looking for a dentist in Ashbourne, you know where to find us.

If you want to book an appointment with a Dental Care Ireland dentist in Ashbourne, please get in touch with our team. The dentist is open from 9am to 5.30pm on Mondays and Thursdays; from 9am to 7.30pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; and from 8.30am to 5pm on Fridays.

Practice Profile: Brand-new Ashbourne practice off to a strong start

Dental Care Ireland Ashbourne practice manager Audrey O’Brien talks about life in the practice, and working in Ashbourne itself

Dental Care Ireland’s practice in Ashbourne, Co Meath, located on the town’s High Street, was officially opened in May 2017, and features best-in-class fittings and features. Audrey O’Brien, practice manager in Ashbourne, says that it’s an exciting time for the practice now that it has been open to the public for a sustained spell of time.

Great experience “Even though we officially opened in May, we’ve been operating for a year now, and it’s been a great experience. The people are so brilliant here, and it’s a pleasure to come into work every day. I’ve worked in Ashbourne before, and I run the day-to-day management of the practice for Dental Care Ireland, making sure that patients and staff are where they need to be at all times.”

The practice employs seven people, and the make-up of the staff reflects a theme in dentistry today. “We’re a young group, and we’re all women!” says Audrey. “We have a hygienist, receptionist, two dentists, two nurses, and myself. What we have here in terms of our staff make-up really does mirror what’s happening in dentistry in general – a significant majority of dentistry graduates are female, which I think is fantastic.”

Always bright But what about the treatments on offer in the Ashbourne practice?

“We offer the standard dental treatments here, along with whitening treatments. It’s a really nice place to work – we’re on the ground floor here; we have a great aspect and it’s always bright, even if it’s raining outside. It’s the kind of place that would cheer you up once you step inside. Our patients say it doesn’t really feel like a traditional dentist’s office, and we like to hear that!” says Audrey.

“We even have a virtual tour of the practice that patients can have a look at before they come in so they know where they’re going!”

Positive impression It’s clear that the staff have made a really positive impression on the community in Ashbourne. “We always try to be nice and friendly so that our patients can have the very best experience possible. Just the other day we heard back from a woman who had brought her mother to us to get dentures. They were both over the moon at how she was treated. We love to hear that kind of feedback – it means a lot to know that you’re making people feel comfortable and secure.”

Ashbourne is a fast-growing, vibrant town, so what does the future hold for Dental Care Ireland Ashbourne? “We’ve got a number of plans in the works,” says Audrey. “We are planning to introduce orthodontic treatments soon, as there is a large market for them in the area.

Lovely vibe “Ashbourne is a young town, but there’s a lovely vibe about the place. There are some really good restaurants and new businesses alongside us on the High Street, and it really seems like the place is feeling the positive effects of the recovery.”

So what sets the Dental Care Ireland Ashbourne practice apart from the competition? “As I said before, it’s all about the way you treat customers, as well as the professional expertise you have,” says Audrey. “Patient care is absolutely paramount, and that’s something that starts from the moment someone walks through the door to when they leave. Our staff are nice and gentle, and that’s what our patients want. That will never change.”

Dental Care Ireland Ashbourne is currently offering 20% of all whitening treatments until the end of August. Get in touch with the team today to book an appointment. See https://www.dentalcareireland.ie/practices/dentist-ashbourne/ or call 01-8350344