Blog

Baby teeth: all you need to know about your child’s oral health

Baby teeth: In this week’s Q&A, Dr Suzanne O’Connor from our Knocklyon practice in Dublin answers some common queries on how to prepare for a child’s first dental visit

Q: When should I first bring my child to the dentist to have their baby teeth looked at?

A: Ideally before the age of two, and preferably when the first tooth arrives at around six months. Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the development of your child’s teeth and give you an opportunity to ask questions on brushing, maintenance and diet.

Q: What is the best time to schedule a visit?

A: Try to pick a time of day that suits you both, so that nobody feels too rushed, tired or hungry. For a first visit, it is particularly important to ensure that your child is as relaxed as possible.

Q: How can I prepare my child for a first visit?

A: It can be useful to introduce child-friendly books or songs about brushing teeth and trips to the dentist. Try to also use positive words and phrases such as check-up, counting teeth or looking at the mouth, rather than unfamiliar terms such as extractions or fillings.

Q: When should I start brushing my child’s teeth?

A: It is a good idea to introduce the concept of oral hygiene as soon as the first baby teeth arrive at approximately six months. Try introducing a small brush for your baby to hold at bath time so that they can get used to the idea of brushing.

Q: Should I use toothpaste to brush my baby’s teeth?

A: For 0-2 year olds, brushing with atoothbrush and water is best. From 2-7 years, children should brush twice a day with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Incorporating supervised brushing into your child’s usual morning and evening schedules is key.

Q: What happens at a first dental visit?

A: Depending on the child’s age, they can either sit on a parent’s lap, or else sit on the chair by themselves. The dentist examines the child’s mouth and gums, in order to identify any issues such as decay, crowding problems, or developmental anomalies. If needed, they may take an X-ray. They will then polish the child’s teeth and offer the parent preventative hygiene and dietary advice.

For more tips and advice on looking after your family’s oral health, visit dentalcareireland.ie

Baltinglass Dental joins Dental Care Ireland in Carlow

Baltinglass Dental, a well-established Wicklow dentist in Baltinglass led by Dr Lotte Ramsden, is to merge with Dental Care Ireland Carlow

Baltinglass Dental, the renowned dentist in Baltinglass, will relocate from Church Lane in the County Wicklow town to the recently refurbished Dental Care Ireland practice on Tullow Street in Carlow.

Where can I find a dentist near me in Baltinglass?

Dr Lotte Ramsden will now be moving her practice to Dental Care Ireland Carlow where she will work alongside Dr Richard Gillman, Dr Colm Traynor and Dr Róisín Brady to provide a full range of dental treatments for all the family.

What is the best dentist in Wicklow?

Dr Ramsden, formerly of Baltinglass Dental, will now work in the Carlow town, just across the border between Wicklow and Carlow. Dr Ramsden trained and worked as a dentist in Wales, before relocating to Ireland in 2005.

Where has Baltinglass Dental moved to?

The practice is now in Carlow.

Can I become a patient in Dental Care Ireland Carlow?

Yes, all patients from Baltinglass Dental will be welcome at Dental Care Ireland in Carlow.

Does the Carlow practice accept children as patients?

Yes, it is a family-friendly practice renowned for its professional and caring approach. It also does orthodontics for children and adults.

What experience does Dr Ramsden have?

Before Baltinglass Dental, she worked as a dental associate in both Tallaght and Carlow. She is particularly good with nervous patients and is trained in providing sedation.

How does she feel about the move to Carlow?

“We have so many loyal patients at Baltinglass Dental, who come from County Wicklow, County Carlow and County Kildare. By merging with Dental Care Ireland in Carlow, we will greatly improve the service for all our patients,” she said.

Where is Dental Care Ireland Carlow located?

The practice is at 83 Tullow Street in the town. It has been upgraded in recent years and the merger with Baltinglass Dental is an ideal opportunity to consolidate many years of experience under the one roof.

What services does Dental Care Ireland Carlow offer?

As well as the most modern facilities and the latest technology, patients will have access to an endodontist, a specialist orthodontist and an oral surgeon, as well as a team of highly qualified hygienists and dental nurses.

How will the move improve service to patients?

“The two practices have excellent reputations in family dentistry so the merger will help us to enhance the service we provide to people living in the Wicklow, Carlow and Kildare area,” says Dr Richard Gillman, principal dentist at Dental Care Ireland Carlow. “The move also demonstrates Dental Care Ireland’s commitment to working with established, trusted and high quality dental practices all over Ireland.”

Where can I find teeth whitening in Wicklow?

Our practice in Carlow, just over the border from Co Wicklow, does whitening as well as other cosmetic treatments.

Where will I find an orthodontist near Baltinglass?

Baltinglass Dental does orthodontics now that it has merged with Dental Care Ireland in Carlow.

How do I contact Dental Care Ireland Carlow?

You can get in touch with the practice and make an appointment via the website. You can also phone the practice on 059-9141245 or email it at carlow@dentalcareireland.ie.

What are the opening hours?

Dental Care Ireland in Carlow is open on the following days:

Monday: 9am-7pm

Tuesday: 9am-5.40pm

Wednesday: 9am-5.40pm

Thursday: 9am-7pm

Friday: 9am-5.40pm

Saturday: 9am-12.40pm

For further information on Dental Care Ireland and its locations around the country, visit www.dentalcareireland.ie

Dental emergencies: how to deal with them

Dental emergencies: In this week’s Q&A, Dr Maura McGuinness from our Navan practice in Meath answers some common queries about how to handle a dental emergency, from toothache tips to saving a knocked-out tooth

Dental emergencies? We’ve all experienced them but what’s the best way to deal with them?

Q: What should I do at the first sign of a toothache?

A: If you or your child is experiencing a toothache, it is best to first rinse the mouth with warm water to thoroughly clean it out. Gently use some dental floss to remove any stubborn food or debris from between the teeth.

Q: How can I ease the pain of 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 a dentist as soon as possible.

Q: What happens if a tooth is knocked out?

A: Should you or your child fall and knock out a tooth, try to retrieve the lost tooth and go straight to the dentist. Hold the tooth by the crown and avoid touching the root.

Q: How should I store the tooth until I get to the dentist?

A: Put the tooth in a cup of milk, or carry it in your mouth, between the teeth and the inside of the cheek, and try to get to a dentist within half an hour. Avoid storing the tooth in regular tap water or mineral water.

Q: What if my child knocks 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: Should I look for any other symptoms?

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 important to check for tongue, cheek or jaw lacerations. If any of these symptoms are present, go straight to the hospital emergency department.

Q: What if a tooth is chipped or broken?

A: Gently rinse the mouth using warm water. If there is bleeding, apply a piece of gauze to the area for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops.Your dentist will need to examine the area as soon as possible, as there is always a chance that some tooth splinter has lodged in the cheek or lip.

Q: Should I be worried if the chipped tooth starts to change colour?

A: If the tooth starts to change colour, it could be a sign of nerve damage. Even if it is a baby tooth, it is best to visit the dentist to ensure that your child’s adult teeth will not be affected in the future.

For more tips and advice on looking after your family’s oral health, visit dentalcareireland.ie

Dentist near Swords provides full range of treatments

Dentist near Swords uses the most up-to-date technology to ensure patients of all ages get the very best service

Dentist near Swords has undergone a major refurbishment since becoming part of Dental Care Ireland and has maintained its excellent reputation in north County Dublin.

Is there a dentist near me in Swords?

Yes, Dental Care Ireland Swords is situated in St Brendan’s in Seatown West in the north Dublin town. You will find directions here (scroll down to map). You can also contact the practice here, by phone on 01-8402971 or by email on swords@dentalcareireland.ie.

I am looking for a dentist for me and my children in north Dublin. Is Dental Care Ireland Swords family-friendly?

Yes, our practice caters for patients of all ages.

Who is the best dentist in the Swords area of north County Dublin?

Our practice was recently modernised to a very high standard. It now has four surgeries on the premises and covers all general and cosmetic treatments.

We have a team of three dentists at the practice: Dr Orla McGeary and Dr Niamh Row. There is also an orthodontist, Dr Susan O’Connell.

Click here will find more information on our team.

What general treatments are carried out in your Swords practice?

General dentistry includes dental examinations and regular check-ups, dental cleaning, fillings, extractions and dental crowns.

Does the practice cater for other areas in north Dublin?

Yes, we have patients from Malahide, Donabate, Rush, Skerries, Portmarnock, Portrane and various other parts of north County Dublin.

Does your practice offer cosmetic dentistry?

Yes. Our practice does dental veneers, dentures, bridges and teeth whitening.

Is your north Dublin practice accepting new patients?

Yes, our newly expanded and refurbished practice is currently taking on new patients. Get in touch with the team to make an appointment.

Is there a good dental hygienist near me in the Swords area of Dublin?

Our practice has its own dental hygienist on site, Lynsey Neill. At Dental Care Ireland, we advise our patients to have an appointment with a hygienist at least once every six months. This will minimise the risk of developing more serious issues.

What specialist treatments are carried out in Dental Care Ireland Swords?

We do dental implants, root canal treatment and orthodontics. We do Invisalign, ceramic and traditional braces here in Swords.

Is there parking at your Swords practice?

Yes, the practice has free parking for patients both off-street (when available) and on-street. It also has full disabled access.

Can I book online for dental treatments at your practice?

Yes, you can book via the Dental Care Ireland website or make a general enquiry. Alternatively, you can call the practice on 01-8402971 or email us on swords@dentalcareireland.ie. Our staff will also be able to tell you if you can get an ‘Exam, Scale & Polish’ for just €15 as part of the Government’s PRSI initiative.

When is the Swords practice open?

The practice’s opening hours are as follows:

Monday: 8am-8pm

Tuesday: 8am-7pm

Wednesday: 8am-5pm

Thursday: 8am-5pm

Friday: 8am-5pm

Book an appointment in our Swords practice. You can also call the practice on 01-8402971.

Find out more about our Dental Care Ireland practice in Swords, north County Dublin and about all our practices in Dublin.

All you need to know about baby teeth

In this week’s Q&A, Dr Colm Traynor from our Carlow practice answers some common questions about losing baby teeth and how best to protect the new permanent teeth that will shortly follow

Q: When do children lose their baby teeth?

A: A child’s baby teeth typically begin to loosen and fall out at about age six, allowing space for the permanent adult teeth to grow.

Q: Which is the first tooth to fall out?

A: Children usually lose teeth in the same order that they first appeared. Hence, the first baby teeth to fall out tend to be the two bottom front teeth and the two top front teeth.

Q: When will my child stop losing baby teeth?

A: Although timing varies from child to child, the process of losing baby teeth usually continues for a number of years until they lose the last tooth at around age 12 or 13.

Q: What if a baby tooth falls out too early?

A: Baby teeth generally stay in place until they are pushed out by permanent teeth. If a child loses a baby tooth early as a result of tooth decay or trauma, make sure to visit your dentist as there may be a risk of infection or damage to the permanent tooth underneath.

Q: How long does it take a wobbly tooth to fall out?

A: Once you or your child notices that a tooth is loose, it can sometimes take a few days or even a few months to fall out. This depends on how quickly the tooth root resorbs.

Q: Should I help my child to loosen a wobbly tooth?

A: It is generally best not to pull a loose tooth, but rather to let nature take its course. Most children will wiggle a tooth themselves until it falls out of its own accord. This will minimise any pain and bleeding associated with losing the tooth.

Q: What happens after a tooth falls out?

A: When a tooth finally falls out, you can help minimise your child’s discomfort by following some simple steps:

Remove the tooth with clean fingers or a moistened gauze
Reduce any bleeding with pressure from tissue or gauze for a brief few minutes
Encourage your child to gently rinse with warm water later that day
Brush the area gently for a day or two, to avoid irritation
Contact your dentist if you have any concerns, or if any portion of the baby tooth remains in the socket

Q: How can I help my child to look after the new adult teeth?

A: Your child’s new permanent teeth will need to last them a lifetime, so establishing a thorough dental care routine from the outset is key.

Remind your child to brush at least twice a day for two minutes
Use a fluoride toothpaste to help keep their teeth strong and prevent dental decay
Help your child floss his or her teeth daily to remove plaque
Ensure a healthy diet and limit frequency of snacks, especially those high in sugar
Encourage your child to drink plenty of water to help dilute any acid attacks
Schedule regular dental visits for your child, to monitor permanent teeth eruption

For more tips and advice on looking after your family’s oral health, visit dentalcareireland.ie

Wise words about wisdom teeth

In this week’s Q&A, Dr Ali Logue from our Greystones practice in Co Wicklow answers your queries about wisdom teeth, when to expect their arrival and how to spot the symptoms.

Q: What is a wisdom tooth?

A: A wisdom tooth is the last tooth to arrive in the mouth. Most adults have 32 teeth, including four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth.

Q: When do wisdom teeth appear?

A: These typically erupt after the body has finished its development, between the ages of 18 and 24.

Q: Does everybody get them?

A: The number of wisdom teeth can vary from person to person, and in some cases, they may not appear at all.

Q: Can these teeth be painful?

A: It is common for wisdom teeth to cause some discomfort and pain, mainly due to a lack of space in the mouth. Not all will cause issues. Where pain arises, however, it is important to visit a dentist as soon as possible.

Q: How will I know if there is a problem?

A: Signs and symptoms of a problem tooth can include:

Swollen and tender gums
Pain when biting or chewing
Soreness at back of mouth
Difficulty opening mouth
Bad taste in mouth
Sleep disturbance

Q: Do all wisdom teeth have to be removed?

A: No, not all of these teeth cause issues. When wisdom teeth become a problem, however, your dentist will usually advise that they be removed to provide long-term relief.

Q: What can I do to ease wisdom tooth pain?

A: Rinsing the mouth with salt water or a medicated mouth wash such as Corsodyl can help reduce bacteria in the gums and thus tackle the source of pain. Alternatively, your pharmacist may recommend an over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen, or a numbing dental gel to help ease initial discomfort.

Q: Can I prepare for the arrival of wisdom teeth?

A: Although it is impossible to stop wisdom teeth coming through, maintaining a good oral health routine will help to prevent infection.

Ideally, brush twice per day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, drink plenty of water, and try to avoid sugary snacks.

For more tips and advice on looking after your family’s oral health, visit dentalcareireland.ie

Root canal treatment is effective solution for decayed teeth

Root canal treatment repairs teeth that are decaying or have become infected, easing any discomfort or pain that this causes in a patient’s jaw

Root canal treatment is a procedure carried out by dentists and specialist endodontists who work on the canals below your crown by removing infected material. If the nerve in a tooth has died, it will need to be taken out. As it decays, bacteria spreads which can lead to infection. The procedure will remove any discomfort from the infected area and restore your teeth to normal function.

Is there a dentist near me that does it?

Yes, Dental Care Ireland practices around Ireland carry out this treatment. You’ll find the locations of the practice nearest you here.

Is there a dentist near me in Ballsbridge or Sandymount that does it?

Our partner practice, Northumberland Dental Care, which looks after patients in the Dublin 2 and Dublin 4 areas of south County Dublin, also carries out the procedure.

Do I need root canal surgery?

The following are some of the symptoms associated with infection in your root canal, though sometimes no obvious symptoms present themselves:

Pain when chewing
Long-term sensitivity to hot/cold
Darkening or discolouration
Swelling and tenderness in your gums
A painful or sensitive ‘spot’ on gums

What happens during the treatment?

It is a relatively straightforward procedure during which your dentist or endodontist will extract any infected pulp or nerve from the root canal area below your tooth. He or she will then clean and disinfect the area. Finally, it will be filled and sealed.

The rubber-like material used to fill the tooth is called ‘gutta percha’ and it will seal the area to prevent reinfection. Tooth-coloured material is then used for the crown.

How much does the treatment cost?

This depends on the location of the teeth involved. Find out more about our prices.

It is also worth bearing in mind that certain treatments, such as root canal surgery, are eligible for 20 per cent tax relief under the Med 2 Scheme.

Is this type of treatment painful?

No, it is a relatively painless procedure. You will receive a local anaesthetic which will numb the area being worked on. You may be aware of work being done but it should not cause any discomfort.

How long does it take?

Generally, the procedure will take about 90 minutes though this will depend on the extent of the problem. You may also need to visit the dentist or endontist on two occasions.

What do I need to do after treatment?

When the canal has been filled, your dentist or endodontist will fill the crown. In some cases, a restorative crown is needed. Your dentist will advise you on this as well as giving you advice on post-treatment care.

Does Dental Care Ireland do this treatment?

The following Dental Care Ireland practices currently offer it:

Where in Dublin can I get root canal treatment?

You will find details about our three Dublin practices as well as our partner practice in Dublin 4, Northumberland Dental Care, here: www.dentalcareireland.ie/dentist-dublin/

To find out more about root canal treatment at Dental Care Ireland, go here: www.dentalcareireland.ie/specialist-treatment/root-canal-treatment/

You’ll find a list of all our practices nationwide, with full contact details here: www.dentalcareireland.ie/practices/

Taking care of teething in your little ones

In this week’s Q&A, Dr Niamh O’Grady from our Castlebar practice in Mayo answers some frequently asked questions about teething and offers advice on how best to ease the transition for little ones and parents alike

Q: When does teething start?

A: Although timing varies widely, first teeth usually start to erupt into a baby’s mouth at about six months old.

Q: Which is the first tooth to arrive?

A: The two lower front teeth are generally the first to appear, followed by the two upper front teeth. For some children, each new tooth erupts one at a time. For others, teeth can arrive in pairs or sets.

Q: When will my child stop teething?

A: Typically, most children will have a full set of 20 baby teeth by the time they reach three years of age.

Q: Is teething painful for children?

A: Signs and symptoms of teething vary from child to child. Some babies may feel little or no pain, while others show symptoms of teething that can last for weeks or months before a tooth erupts.

Q: What are the signs of teething in a baby?

A: While there is no single set of indicators, a baby may experience some or all of the following teething signs:

Red and slightly swollen gums
Red or flushed cheek(s)
Excessive drooling/dribbling
Chewing on objects
Ear pulling or cheek rubbing
Restlessness
Reduced appetite
Irritability

Q: Should I give my child a teething ring to ease discomfort?

A: A teething ring can provide a safe and soothing item for your baby to chew on, as well as a mild distraction from the pain. Never use a frozen teething ring as it could damage your baby’s gum.

Q: Are there any other ways to ease the pain?

A: Try using a clean finger or moistened gauze pad to lightly rub your baby’s gums in the affected area. The counter-pressure should help ease any discomfort. For babies over six months, some cold natural yoghurt or chilled fruit purée can also provide great comfort and relief for hot and swollen gums.

Q: How can I prevent skin irritation from drooling?

A: Excessive drooling is part of the teething process. To prevent skin irritation, keep a clean cloth handy to gently dry your baby’s chin, consider applying an approved moisturiser, and use a bib for additional comfort.

Q: Can I give my child medicine to relieve teething pain?

A: If your baby is experiencing a lot of pain and especially irritable, you may want to consider a suitable over-the-counter remedy such as children’s paracetamol, as recommended by your pharmacist.

Q: When should I first bring my child to the dentist?

For more tips and advice on looking after your family’s oral health, visit dentalcareireland.ie

Teeth straightening is now a simple treatment for adults

While orthodontics used to be primarily for teenagers, patients of all ages are now getting ‘braces’ fitted to correct any misalignment of teeth

It is perfectly natural to have concerns about whether your teeth are as straight as they could be – and most of us probably do worry about this at some stage in our lives. In the past, adults used to think that there was nothing further to be done about the issue as braces were only for young people. People would assume that their age meant their teeth had ‘settled’ and getting braces would have no effect.

However, as the technology around orthodontics and braces has developed over the years, there has never been a better time to get your teeth straightened. Not only is it very effective regardless of your age, it is also painless, comfortable and very straightforward. There are also various different methods used which will depend on your age and the amount of work you need done.

Why braces?

There are three main reasons why you, as an adult, might want or need orthodontic treatment:

Function: Misaligned teeth affect your ‘bite’ and how you eat. Common issues include crowding, ‘deep bite’, protruding teeth and ‘crossbite’. Braces will correct these problems.
Health: Having straight teeth throughout your mouth is better for your overall gum and dental health. It makes cleaning – brushing, flossing, etc – easier and more effective.
Appearance: Many people opt to get braces for aesthetic reasons. If your teeth are crooked, they can affect how your smile looks. Indeed, many people don’t smile as much as they should if they are self-conscious about crooked teeth. Getting them straightened solves this and will give you a new self-confidence.

A visit to your dentist/orthodontist will help you to assess what treatment, if any, you would benefit from. Younger people who need braces generally get them fitted between the ages of eight and 14, while adults of all ages get theirs done.

Assessment

When your dentist refers you to a specialist orthodontist, they will examine your teeth and advise you on the best treatment for you. This will vary from patient to patient and will include a discussion on the most suitable braces.

How long does it take?

Orthodontic treatment in both children and adults usually lasts for between 12 and 24 months, though it is different for each patient. This depends on how much work you will need done. After treatment, your orthodontist may also advise you to use a retainer so your teeth stay in the position achieved.

How much does it cost?

Prices are different for each patient and will depend on your case and the type of braces you opt for. Your orthodontist will help you to choose the best option.

We use three different types of braces here in Dental Care Ireland:

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Clear aligners from Invisalign are made from plastic and are created just for your teeth. They are fixed to your teeth by your orthodontist and are practically invisible. They are one of the most popular options for this reason.

Ceramic braces

Clear – or ceramic – braces are another popular option as they are tooth-coloured and also barely noticeable.

Traditional metal braces

These remain the most popular option for children and adolescents as they provide the most effective and lasting solution to the problems misaligned teeth can create for young people. The brackets are ‘cemented’ to the teeth and a wire is used to ‘pressure’ the teeth into moving.

What do I have to do?

Your orthodontist will advise you on how best to care for your teeth while undergoing treatment as well as when your treatment is over. While wearing braces, it is important to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible through brushing and flossing, as well as watching what you eat and regularly visiting your dentist and/or hygienist.

Dental Care Ireland has full orthodontic services in the following practices:

You will also find them in our partner practice in Dublin 4 Northumberland Dental Care.

Find out more about Dental Care Ireland and the treatments on offer in our practices nationwide.

To find the Dental Care Ireland practice nearest you, check our list of locations here: https://www.dentalcareireland.ie/practices/

Mouth Cancer Awareness Day: your questions answered

On Mouth Cancer Awareness Day and in the first of a series of Q&As, our group clinical advisor, Dr Paul O’Dwyer, answers some common queries about the risk factors and symptoms of mouth cancer.

How common is mouth cancer in Ireland?

There are over 700 cases of mouth, head and neck cancer reported in Ireland every year and that is why Mouth Cancer Awareness Day is so important.

What are the symptoms of mouth cancer?

Some signs and symptoms of mouth cancer include ulcers that do not heal within three weeks, red or white patches in the mouth, a lump or other unusual change in the mouth or neck, difficulty swallowing or chewing, persistent sore throat or hoarseness, and unexplained loose teeth.

Who is most at risk?

Mouth cancer is more common in men and older people. However, the number of women and younger people being diagnosed is rising. There are a number of risk factors for mouth cancer:

Smoking or chewing tobacco
Excessive alcohol consumption
Using both tobacco and alcohol together
Excessive exposure to sunlight or radiation
A diet lacking in fruit and vegetables
Viral infections such as human papillomavirus (HPV)

Can my dentist detect mouth cancer?

Your dentist will examine your mouth for any changes, which may include mouth cancer, as part of your routine dental check-up. It is important to visit your general dentist regularly even if you have no remaining natural teeth.

What does a mouth cancer examination involve?

A mouth cancer exam is painless and quick. As part of your routine check-up, your dentist will examine both inside and outside your face, neck, lips and mouth to check for any possible signs of cancer.

How can I help to prevent mouth cancer?

Early detection of mouth cancer greatly improves the treatment outcome and chances of survival.

Visit your dentist regularly, even if you wear dentures
Look out for any changes in your mouth or neck
Use a barrier cream on lips during sun exposure
Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables
Do not smoke
Avoid alcohol

For more tips and advice on looking after your family’s oral health, visit dentalcareireland.ie.