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Dealing with Dental Emergencies During COVID-19
Dental emergencies can be alarming on the best of days, let alone when the world is dealing with wrap of Coronavirus (COVID-19). We’re here to answer some common queries about how to handle dental emergencies, from toothache tips to saving a knocked-out tooth.
Q: What do I do if I have a toothache?
A: If you or your child is experiencing a toothache, it is best to rinse the mouth with warm water first to clean it out thoroughly. Gently use some dental floss to remove any stubborn food or debris from between the teeth. If the pain persists, call your local Dental Care Ireland practice to arrange an emergency dental appointment.
Q: How can I stop a toothache?
A: A suitable over-the-counter pain relief remedy can help to ease discomfort, as recommended by your pharmacist. If the pain persists, contact your dentist as soon as possible to arrange an emergency dental appointment.
Q: What do I do if I’ve knocked out of tooth?
A: Retrieve the lost tooth and call your local Dental Care Ireland practice straight away to arrange an emergency dental appointment. You should hold the tooth by the crown and avoid touching the root.
Q: How should I store the tooth that has been knocked out?
A: Place the tooth in milk, or carry it in your mouth, between your teeth and the inside of your cheek. If stored correctly, there is a chance that the tooth can be replanted in the gum. Do not store the tooth in regular tap water or mineral water.
Q: What do I do if my child has knocked out a baby tooth?
A: Baby teeth are not typically replanted in the mouth. However, it is still important for your dentist to assess the damage, particularly as the permanent successors may be affected by the injury.
Q: Are there symptoms to look for when a tooth is knocked out?
A: When a tooth is knocked out, look immediately for any symptoms of severe head injury such as bleeding from the nose or ears. It is also essential to check for tongue, cheek or jaw lacerations. If any of these symptoms are present, call 112 or 999 immediately.
Q: What do I do if I chip a tooth?
A: Gently rinse your mouth with warm water. If there is bleeding, apply gauze to the area for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops. Call your local dental practice for further guidance on what you should do next.
Q: What should I do if my tooth changes colour?
A: If a tooth starts to change colour, it could be a sign of nerve damage. Even if it is a baby tooth, it is best to call your local dentist who can advise you further.
For more tips and advice on looking after your family’s oral health, visit dentalcareireland.ie.
Patient Information: COVID-19 (23rd March)
In the best interests of our patients, team and community, we will be suspending all non-urgent dental treatments until March 31st. Most of our practices will still continue to provide emergency dental care to patients.
Should you or your family require urgent dental care at this time, please contact your local practice to schedule an appointment. Our team is available to answer your dental questions and concerns. You can find contact details for each practice on our website.
Due to the nature of dentistry, our standard infection control processes are designed to protect both patients and staff from the risk of contracting contagious diseases at all times, and especially when facing a situation like the current COVID-19 outbreak. Please be assured that we are receiving daily updates from both the HSE and the HSPC and are adhering to all the current guidelines to allow us to continue to provide the best possible care to you and your family.
If you have an appointment scheduled with us for routine dental treatment, our team will contact you directly to re-arrange. We appreciate that you may have further questions, so please do not hesitate to contact your local practice and we will be more than happy to help.
We will be updating our Patient Information page on a regular basis to keep our patients up to date on any changes to these dental emergency services.
Thank you to all of our patients for you continued support and understanding at this time. Please stay safe and follow all guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Dental Care Ireland Navan Scoops Major Award
Our Meath practice Dental Care Ireland Navan has won the Most Improved Practice award at the Irish Dentistry Awards
We were delighted that the Navan Dental Care Ireland practice won the prestigious Most Improved Practice award at the recent Irish Dentistry awards. This is testament to all the hard work the team have put in over the past few years. They really deserved to win and all of us here in Dental Care Ireland are so proud of their achievement.
The award was presented at the Irish Dentistry Awards ceremony which took place on February 29th in the Round Room of the Mansion House in Dublin.
This practice was originally called the Cosgrave Practice and became part of the Dental Care Ireland group in May 2016. It has grown since then and has had a renovation. Located on Watergate Street and still led by principal dentist Dr William Cosgrave, it offers a professional and family-friendly service to the local community in Navan. Its team of dentists, hygienists, dental nurses and admin staff offer general dentistry, orthodontics and cosmetic treatments from its state-of-the-art premises.
To find out more visit our website.
Dental bridge: all you need to know
A dental bridge is an increasingly popular treatment that effectively closes the gap between teeth, leaving you with the perfect smile
As the name suggests, a dental bridge ‘bridges’ the space between your teeth, particularly at the front of your mouth, that may have been caused by missing or decayed teeth. Here we answer all your questions about this treatment.
What is a dental bridges?
A bridge is basically a false tooth that is used to replace a missing one. It is generally inserted between two dental crowns which are put on top of existing teeth. Dental implants also work in certain situations.
As they are natural-looking, no one will notice that you have had a dental bridge. They are also designed and ‘anchored’ in your mouth, so will work exactly like your original teeth.
Why do I need dental bridges?
Having missing teeth can can affect your smile, how you chew and the shape of your mouth. Furthermore, other teeth can begin to move if there is a space in your mouth. Lastly, food can gather in gaps in your teeth, leading to bacteria that can ultimately cause halitosis (bad breath) and decay). Bridges deal with these issues.
Where can I get dental bridges near me?
The following Dental Care Ireland practices around the country offer dental bridges services:
Our partner practice in south County Dublin, Northumberland Dental Care in Dublin 4, also fits bridges.
Is there a dentist near me that does dental bridges?
Yes, with 14 practices nationwide, you will be able to get this treatment done in your local Dental Care Ireland practice.
Can I get dental bridges in Dublin?
The three Dental Care Ireland practices in Dublin – in Cabinteely in Dublin 18, in Knocklyon in Dublin 16 and in Swords in north County Dublin – all provide bridges, as does our partner practice in Dublin 2/Dublin Northumberland Dental Care.
How much do bridges cost?
Bridges range in price depending on the extent of the work necessary. When you attend your dentist, he or she will be able to guide you on the cost of the treatment.
For more on a general guide to fees at Dental Care Ireland practices.
How long do dental bridges last?
Bridges are fairly durable and, if you have a good oral health routine, they can last for five to 15 years and possibly even longer.
How long does it take to get bridges fitted?
This will generally require two to three appointments, one to assess your needs, anchor the teeth or implants so they are ready for the bridges and create moulds of the affected area. Subsequently, you will return to have the bridges fitted.
Do bridges hurt?
In general, they don’t but there may be some discomfort.
What do I need to do once they are fitted?
It is important to maintain good oral hygiene if you have dental bridges, including brushing, flossing and getting regular check-ups. You should also make sure you have a healthy diet. Your dentist will advise you on post-treatment care.
Find out more about dental bridges and other cosmetic dentistry options available from Dental Care Ireland.
You’ll find a list of all our practices nationwide, with full contact details, here: www.dentalcareireland.ie/practices/
Sports mouthguards: all you need to know
In this week’s Q&A, Dr Amita Bhagwat from our Tuam practice in Galway answers some frequently asked questions about when, why and how to use sports mouthguards
Q: What are sports mouthguards?
A: Sports mouthguards, or gum shields, are dental appliances that is worn over your teeth to help protect them from damage during contact and ball-based sports activities.
Q: Why should a mouthguard be worn?
A: During sporting and recreational activities, mouthguards provide cushioning for your teeth, gums and other soft tissues in the mouth. A properly-fitted mouthguard can help to protect the mouth from injuries such as broken or lost teeth, bruised or lacerated cheeks, and damaged or fractured jaws.
Q: Is it compulsory to wear a mouthguard for sports?
A: Since the GAA Congress ruling in April 2012, there has been a mandatory requirement for mouthguards for all Gaelic football matches. This move is in line with International sports such as American Football, Ice Hockey and Rugby Union.
Q: How is a custom mouthguard fitted?
A: Your dentist will first take impressions (moulds) of your teeth and gums, which will then be professionally manufactured in a laboratory to perfectly fit your mouth. Your dentist will discuss the type of guard suitable to the sports you play and customise it accordingly.
Q: What other options are available?
A: There are three types of mouthguard available in Ireland:
- Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and ready to wear. They are inexpensive but can feel cumbersome, and may occasionally affect breathing or talking.
- Boil and bite mouthguards are moulded in a basic way to your teeth and jaw structure. Typically, you place the mouthguard into warm water, and bite as per instructions to mould. While they do satisfy the mandatory ruling of most sports clubs, the CE mark must be present on packaging, to indicate that it has met certain acceptable standards.
- Custom mouthguards are professionally fitted to your mouth by a dentist, and offer the highest level of comfort and protection.
Q: Do children need to wear a mouthguard for sports?
A: Yes. Sports mouthguards should be worn by adults and children.
Q: How often should I change my mouthguard?
A: Replacement of a mouthguard is recommended each year for a growing child, as their jaw and teeth arrangement will change. For adults, replacement is needed when the guard is showing signs of wear. Bring your mouthguard to your dental check-up so that your dentist can assess whether it is giving you maximum protection.
Q: Can a mouthguard be worn with braces?
A: Yes. Those who have fixed metal or ceramic braces are particularly at risk of soft tissue injury and damage. Even a small injury to the mouth can lead to lacerations on the insides of the cheeks and lips, and can do serious damage to the braces themselves.
For more tips and advice on looking after your family’s oral health, visit dentalcareireland.ie
Main image: Camogie Association
Diabetes and oral health: the links
People with diabetes need to take good care of their oral health as they can be susceptible to various problems if their condition is not managed properly.
As the Diabetes Ireland Conference & Exhibition 2020 (DICE) begins today in Dublin, we look at the links between diabetes and oral health.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition that is caused by your body having insufficient insulin. Produced in the pancreas, insulin is a vital hormone that absorbs glucose (sugar) into your bloodstream which body cells then use for growth and energy. Diabetes is when your blood glucose (or blood sugar) is too high because your pancreas is not making enough insulin to enable all the sugar to be used.
What’s the difference between type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes usually starts in childhood and people with the condition need to have injections of insulin. The cause of type 1 is due to the immune system destroying the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.
Type 2 diabetes generally develops in adulthood and has often been linked to obesity and lack of exercise. It is a progressive condition and is usually treated with anti-diabetic medicine and/or insulin injections, as well as through diet changes and exercise.
Type 1 diabetes is also not preventable, whereas type 2 can be prevented with a healthy diet and effective weight management.
What is prediabetes?
This is when your blood glucose levels are too high but the condition has not yet caused diabetes proper. It is often an indication that type 2 diabetes will develop.
Is there a cure for diabetes?
Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes need to be treated in patients. For those with type 1, this involves daily management of insulin and to balance food intake or exercise, as well as insulin injections. Those with type 2 diabetes also need to control what they eat and exercise as well as taking medication. Many will also need to use insulin injections.
What are the risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes?
You are more likely to get type 2 diabetes if you:
- Are over 40
- Have family members with diabetes
- Are overweight
- Do not exercise regularly
- Have high blood pressure and/or high cholesterol.
How are dental health and diabetes linked?
People with diabetes often tend to develop issues such as gum disease, dry mouth, slow healing and infections. This is why it is important for people with the condition to really look after their dental health.
How does someone with diabetes keep their mouth healthy?
The following tips are important if you want to have good oral health:
- Monitor your blood glucose levels and take medication as required
- Brush teeth twice a day
- Floss your teeth every day
- Make sure you have a healthy diet
- See your dentist for frequent check-ups
- Do not smoke.
Diabetes and going to the dentist?
If you have diabetes, it is crucial that you let your dentist know as it will determine your treatment. He or she will also be able to advise you on how often you should have check-ups. Dentists also recommend that you eat a main meal before your appointment (as per the instructions of your medical team) and that you tell your dentist what medication, if any, you are on.
What oral health complications arise with diabetes?
These are the main issues that can arise if your diabetes is not being treated properly:
- Sore or swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath.
What does Diabetes Ireland do?
Diabetes Ireland provides support, education and motivation to people living with diabetes. It also raises awareness of the conditions in the public domain as well as supporting research into it, its causes, treatments and cures. Its goal is to assist the thousands of Irish people who have diabetes, along with their families.
What is the Diabetes Ireland Conference & Exhibition 2020 (DICE)?
Every year, the charity organises various conferences at which national and international speakers convene to share knowledge and present papers on advances in the clinical treatment of diabetes. This year’s main event takes place on February 21st, 2020 in the Croke Park Conference Centre in Dublin. (Note: This event is for healthcare professionals only.)
To find out more about diabetes and oral health, check out the Diabetes Ireland website.
This video featuring Dr Paul O’Dwyer, group clinical advisor with Dental Care Ireland, also has valuable information about dental care and living with diabetes.
Find a list of all Dental Care Ireland practices nationwide, with full contact details.
Dentist in Claregalway continues to thrive in community
As its reputation grows, our dentist in Claregalway is providing a winning service to all its patients in the area and further afield
The Dental Care Ireland dentist in Claregalway, which is just over 10 kilometres from Galway city, is led by principal dentist Dr Martin McCarthy. The practice became part of Dental Care Ireland in 2018 and has gone from strength to strength since then.
Is there a dentist near me in Claregalway?
Our practice is in Cahergowan in Claregalway, Co Galway and provides the full range of dental treatments from check-ups and cleaning appointments to extractions and fillings.
Is there a good children’s dentist in Claregalway?
Our Galway dentist is accepting patients of all age and has always had a family-friendly apporoach.
Who is the best dentist in the Claregalway area?
Our highly qualified team of dentists pride themselves on providing dental care of the very highest standards to all our patients, whether they are looking for regular dental treatment or cosmetic dentistry.
What is the best dentist near me in Claregalway?
The team at Dental Care Ireland Claregalway now consists of six general dentists who work in the state-of-the-art premises. The practice is large with five fully operational surgeries.
What general treatments are carried out at the Galway dental practice?
The general dental treatments include examinations, extractions and fillings. We also fit bridges, dental crowns, veneers and dentures.
Where can I get teeth whitening in Galway?
The practice offers an extremely effective teeth whitening service. Patients attend and are fitted for unique dental trays. On a return visit, they are given their trays and a whitening gel which they can then use at home.
What specialist treatments are carried out in Dental Care Ireland Claregalway?
We carry out root canal treatment here in the practice. Also known as endodontics, root canal surgery involves your dentist or endodontist taking out infected or damaged tissue or ‘pulp’. He or she will then clean and disinfect the area before filling it and sealing it.
Can I claim my dental PRSI entitlements at Dental Care Ireland in Galway?
Yes, all our practices offer an Exam, Scale & Polish for just €15 as part of your PRSI entitlements. It is important to claim these as early as possible as a huge number of PRSI payers fail to claim theirs each year. To find out if you’re eligible, contact the practice and our friendly receptionists can check for you.
Is there parking at the Claregalway practice?
Yes, there is plenty of free parking at the practice, as well as disabled access.
Can I book online for dental treatments at your practices?
Yes, we have made it even easier to book an online appointment at the practice. Find out more and to book at a times that suits you and your family.
When is the Claregalway practice open?
The Claregalway practice’s opening hours are:
Monday: 9am-5pm
Tuesday: 8am-5pm
Wednesday: 8am-5pm
Thursday: 9am-5pm
Friday: 9am-5pm
Book an appointment in our Claregalway practice. You can also call the practice on 091798 333 or email the team on claregalway@dentalcareireland.ie.
To find out more about our Dental Care Ireland practice in Claregalway and about all our practices around the country, go here: https://www.dentalcareireland.ie/practices/
Bad breath: how to prevent it
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, Dr Paul O’Dwyer, group clinical advisor at Dental Care Ireland, answers some common questions on how to keep bad breath at bay
Q: What is the most common cause of bad breath?
A: Bad breath (halitosis) can often originate in the gums and tongue. It is typically caused by the bacteria in our mouths as they work to naturally break down food. Smoking is also a common cause. In some cases, persistent bad breath can also be a sign of underlying issues such as tooth decay or gum disease.
Q: Is stress a contributing factor?
A: Stress, dieting, age, hormonal changes, and dry mouth can all exacerbate the symptoms.
Q: How can I help prevent bad breath?
A: It is important to maintain a consistent oral health routine at home. Ideally, brush twice per day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste. Remember to include your tongue, as it can also harbour bacteria. Floss teeth at least once a day, to help clean areas that your toothbrush cannot reach. It is best to replace your toothbrush at least every three months, or after an illness.
Q: How can I avoid it after eating my favourite foods?
A: Strong-smelling foods and drinks, such as onions, garlic or coffee, can be detected on a person’s breath for up to 72 hours after digestion. The effect on your breath is usually only temporary. Drinking plenty of water and chewing sugar-free gum after a meal, will increase saliva flow, which helps eliminate the odour-causing bacteria.
Q: How can I manage bad breath from smoking?
A: Mouthwashes and smokers’ toothpastes may be effective in removing stains and freshening up the mouth. While they can mask the symptoms/signs of halitosis, however, they cannot treat any underlying damage caused by smoking. Smoking also irritates the gums and often contributes to your chances of tooth decay and gum disease.
Q: What should I do if my bad breath persists?
A: If your bad breath persists, it could be a sign of underlying issues including tooth decay or gum disease. Schedule a regular check-up with your dentist or dental hygienist to help maintain your oral health and prevent the occurrence of bad breath.
For more tips and advice on looking after your family’s oral health, visit dentalcareireland.ie
Teeth whitening: your questions answered
In our latest Q&A, Dr Lorna Mohan from our Cabinteely practice in Dublin answers some frequently asked questions about teeth whitening
Q: Am I a suitable candidate for teeth whitening?
A: A full check-up with your dentist is recommended to determine your suitability for teeth whitening. Professional teeth whitening is ideal for patients who have healthy teeth and gums with no tooth restorations such as fillings, crowns or veneers. You may not be a suitable candidate if you have gum disease, tooth decay or hypersensitivity.
Q: What does the treatment involve?
A: Once you are a suitable candidate, your dentist will work with you to identify the shade of white you wish to achieve. Impressions will then be taken of your teeth to develop customised whitening trays which you can use yourself at home. Your bespoke whitening kit will include the trays and a special whitening gel.
Q: How long does the treatment take?
A: Teeth whitening trays and gel are typically used at home for one hour per day for approximately seven to 14 days, depending on the shade you wish to achieve.
Q: How white will my teeth go?
A: The shade you are able to achieve will depend on the shade of your teeth at the outset. Your dentist will be able to advise you on the likely outcome before you begin.
Q: Will I feel pain or sensitivity?
A: You may experience some sensitivity during the whitening process. This is completely normal and should disappear when you finish your whitening treatment. If you usually have sensitive teeth, it may be helpful to use a sensitive toothpaste before and during whitening.
Q: Does the treatment whiten crowns, veneers or fillings?
A: No. Teeth whitening only works on natural teeth. Crowns, veneers or tooth-coloured fillings will not whiten. If you have any crowns, veneers or fillings in your front teeth, you may need to have these replaced after your whitening treatment to match them to your new, whiter shade.
Q: Are the results permanent?
A: The effects of whitening will vary from person to person. Results may be impacted by smoking or consuming certain foods and drinks such as tea, coffee, red wine and blackcurrant.
Q: How can I maintain my brighter smile?
A: After the initial application, you will have plenty of whitening gel which you can use to top-up your tooth shade annually or as needed. Try to maintain a good oral health routine at home, avoid smoking, eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and schedule regular visits to your dentist or dental hygienist to keep your teeth clean and healthy.
For more tips and advice on looking after your family’s oral health, visit dentalcareireland.ie
Invisalign: all you need to know
The Invisalign system has revloutionised the approach to teeth straightening, allowing people of all ages to wear removable ‘braces’ that are practically invisible
While traditional ceramic and metal braces are still used, particularly for teenagers, Invisalign removable aligners have made the process of getting your teeth straightened easier and more accessible.
What are Invisalign braces?
Invisalign is an innovative system for straightening teeth that uses clear aligners instead of traditional metal or ceramic braces. It is a form of orthodontics that is less invasive and easier to use.
Where can I get Invisalign braces?
They are available in the following Dental Care Ireland practices:
Greystones: Greystones Braces & Invisalign in Co Wicklow
Kilkenny: Braces & Invisalign Callan Dental in Callan
We will also be rolling them out in other Dental Care Ireland practices in the coming months, many of which already do orthodontics.
Is there a dentist near me that does Invisalign?
If you are living in Wicklow or Kilkenny, our practices in Greystones and Callan offer this service.
How much does Invisalign cost?
This varies depending on the amount of work your teeth need. Find a general guide to fees for all treatments in Dental Care Ireland practices.
How long do Invisalign braces last?
Your dentist or orthodontist will be able to advise you on this as it will depend on the severity of the issue. In general, they are usually worn for about 12 months, with patients recommended to keep them in for 20-22 hours a day.
Do Invisalign braces work?
Yes, these clear aligners have been shown to be very effective for straightening teeth. It is worth bearing in mind that they will not work for everybody and more severe problems will need traditional orthodontic treatment.
How long does it take to get Invisalign ftitted?
You will need to visit your dentist or orthodontist at least twice to get assessed and to be measured for your own unique ‘trays’ or aligners. A 3D impression is taken of your teeth and the team will assess how they want your teeth to move. You will then be given different aligners to use as your teeth being shifting.
Do Invisalign braces hurt?
In general, they don’t but you may experience some discomfort.
Are Invisalign aligners worth it?
They have been shown to be an extremely effective method for straightening teeth in patients of all ages and there is not a huge price difference between them and standard orthodontic treatment.
What’s the difference between Invisalign and normal braces?
The aligners are almost invisible, meaning people feel more comfortable wearing them. However, in many cases, traditional ceramic or metal braces are still used.
Can children get Invisalign?
Yes, they can be used by teenagers instead of traditional orthodontic treatment. Your dentist or orthodontist will advise you on what is the best system for your child’s particular situation. Sometimes it is simply better to use metal or ceramic braces.
What do I need to do once they are fitted?
Your dentist or orthodontist will give you all the advice you need about using these clear aligners. They should be worn for 20-22 hours a day in order to get the best results in the shortest timeframe. They also need to be removed when eating or drinking; you should then brush your teeth before re-inserting them.
To find out more about all teeth straightening options available from Dental Care Ireland, go here: www.dentalcareireland.ie/specialist-treatment/orthodontics/
You’ll find a list of all our practices nationwide, with full contact details here: www.dentalcareireland.ie/practices/
