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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
Dental Care Ireland puts children’s dental health first
Recent bad news surrounding children’s dental health highlights the importance of good dental care from an early age. For that reason, Dental Care Ireland practices nationwide will be offering a free first dental visit to all patients under five for the month of March
In January 2019, it emerged that approximately 84,000 children and adolescents were waiting on a public dental assessment or treatment around Ireland. The Irish Dental Association described these figures as “shocking” and said that children on waiting lists could end up in pain with swollen or infected gums and may need antibiotics or even operations to alleviate pain and treat the issues.
In response, the HSE said that up to one million children up to including the age of 15 are eligible for free dental services. But clearly demand is outstripping supply and something needs to be done to address children’s dental health and this enormous waiting list.
Free first dental visit
It is depressing to read figures like these, which very much emphasise how important it is that children see their dentist from the earliest possible age, and regularly thereafter. For that reason, Dental Care Ireland is doing its part for children’s dental health, with practices nationwide offering free first dental visits to all patients under the age of five for the month of March.
If your child visits their dentist at the optimal time (generally when the first tooth appears when they are six months old), then it stands to reason that they will be comfortable and relaxed in what is initially an unfamiliar environment.
Crucially, at your child’s first dental visit you will be given an insight into how you can ensure your child’s dental and oral health stay as good as possible. Given children’s teeth are smaller, thinner and softer than adult teeth, it is important they are seen very early so that your dentist can spot any tell-tale signs of issues that may develop at a later date.
Ensuring a stress-free visit
There are a number of things you can do to ensure that your child’s first dental visit goes as smoothly as possible.
First of all, go at a time that suits both you and your child. This way, you’ll minimise any stress and put your child at ease. It’s important your child is well rested and fed, and also that you aren’t rushing or vexed. Children can pick up on your mood so ensure you leave yourself plenty of time so that both of you are in good form.
Dental practices are very bright and clean, and it’s important your child isn’t rushed in and out of the practice too quickly. You’ll want to give them a bit of time to acclimatise to this new environment.
Checking for tell-tale signs
At Dental Care Ireland, we make sure that parents are present at a child’s first dental visit, so that you can hear about what the initial examination consists of as well as pick up some tips for maintaining dental health at home. The dental examination usually involves counting the child’s teeth to see how many have appeared so far.
Dentists are also looking for a growth pattern to establish a foundation for what’s present and seeing if there are any tell-tale signs of issues that they can advise on to prevent them becoming a problem.
Overall, the visit should be good fun and enjoyable for the child, so that next time they visit, they aren’t apprehensive.
What take-home messages do you need?
After this first dental visit, you will gain plenty of insights into how your child should brush their teeth, general dental and oral health tips and dietary insights so the whole family can minimise sugary food and drink intake.
If you follow these simple tips, you will greatly increase the chances of both a successful first dental visit for your child, as well as subsequent visits to come. Make sure you always put your children’s dental health first.
Dental Care Ireland prioritises children’s dental health, and is offering free first dental visits to all patients under the age of five for the month of March 2019. If you’re looking to book an appointment in one of our practices around the country, we can offer you the help and care that you need. Dental Care Ireland practices around the country open late, on weekends and during lunchtime, so make sure you consult our opening hours for more information
Bright, new practice for dentist in Navan
Dental Care Ireland Navan practice manager Jessica Tobin is delighted that the dentist in Navan has undergone such a successful relocation
Even though Dental Care Ireland Navan just relocated at the end of January 2019, the practice has deep roots in the community. “Our initial location in Navan was originally a doctor’s practice, and then our own Dr Bill Cosgrave took it over 47 years ago,” says Jessica Tobin, practice manager at Dental Care Ireland Navan.
“He was in his 20s then, and now in his 70s he’s still a huge part of this practice. Even now he still lectures and just received a fellowship in dentistry,” she says.
Great reputation
“Because we’ve been around for so long, we are well established in the community with a great reputation. Dental Care Ireland took over the running of the practice in summer 2016, then we relocated to this lovely, bright practice at the end of January 2019.”
It’s fair to say that experience and local know-how is at the heart of this dentist in Navan. “Dr Maura McGuinness has been here for a year, but prior to that she was in our Kells practice for 30 years, and Dr David Kelly has been here for 13 years,” says Jessica.
“I’ve been working with Dental Care Ireland for three years – initially I was based in Kells, where I now live, but I relocated a little while ago. I grew up in Navan so I’m very familiar with both towns!”
Community benefits
There are a number of staff in our dentist in Navan who can cater for the community’s needs. “We currently have 12 staff working here in Navan – there are three dentists, a hygienist, a receptionist, six dental nurses and myself, the practice manager,” says Jessica.
“We mostly focus on general dental treatments, but one of our dentists does perform minor orthodontic treatments for routine braces work. An orthodontist will be starting with us soon, which is great for the whole team and community,” she says.
Ideal location
The new dental practice has caused quite a stir around the town. “Since we opened the new practice we’ve had lots of interest from locals, and plenty of walk-ins. We’re right in the middle of town beside the shopping centre, close to lots of local businesses with plenty of parking, so it’s ideal,” says Jessica.
“We’re very involved with the community – we offer services to retired nuns and priests just up the road in Dalgan Park, for example. It’s fantastic to be able to give something back.”
The team spirit generated by the staff really helps. “We get on really well as a team. We have regular nights out and just had lunch recently to celebrate the move to the new practice. We’re all different age groups here so it’s a great mix that helps morale. We interact really well together,” she says.
Everyone leaves happy
The primary goal of every Dental Care Ireland practice is to ensure that the patient experience is as good as it can be. So, what does this dentist in Navan do to help put patients’ minds at ease?
“For starters, we’re child-friendly as well as patient-friendly – and look to establish a good rapport with all our patients,” says Jessica. “We’ve been here so long that our staff know most of the patients anyway, so we know if they have special needs or if they need to come to see us at a particular time.
“We have two iPads for children as well as a TV in reception, so people are generally relaxed when they see us. Sometimes patients want to know exactly what’s happening and we are happy to tell them. Others don’t want to know and that’s fine too. Regardless, everyone leaves happy from here. That’s what we want to see!”
Bright, clean and spacious
The patient experience is definitely helped by the new practice. “It really makes a difference – it’s on a corner and the sun is always shining in. It’s so bright and clean, with a spacious reception area. We’re wheelchair-friendly too and have the price list up so people know exactly how much everything costs. We like to be as transparent as possible. We’re just a seven-minute walk from the old practice, so it’s just around the corner,” says Jessica.
It’s a great new addition to a bustling town. “Navan has gotten so busy in the last few years, it’s great to be here. There are lots of nice places to see and it’s full of familiar faces. I love working here.”
The new Dental Care Ireland practice in Navan is located at 15 Watergate Street in the heart of the town. The dentist in Navan is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 8am to 8pm, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8am to 5pm, and on Saturdays from 8am to 3pm. Get in touch with the team today to book an appointment. Call 046-9021372 or click the link above to book online
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 5,000th 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 1st.
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.
Cabinteely dentist puts patients first
Dental Care Ireland is committed to providing an outstanding, personal community dental experience. Our Cabinteely dentist puts that plan into practice
In June 2015, Dental Care Ireland took over the running of Park Clinic Dental in Cabinteely, Co Dublin. The Cabinteely dentist was previously owned by Dr Vincent McDonagh, who stayed on after the purchase as principal dentist. We offer a range of dental treatments in Cabinteely, including paediatric dentistry, orthodontics and root canal procedures as well as standard general treatments.
Located in The Park Shopping Centre on Glen Drive, our Cabinteely dentist deals with a broad demographic – from toddlers to older patients – and the staff here are delighted to be such a pivotal part of the community.
There are eight dentists working in our Cabinteely practice. Orthodontists Dr Aidan Redahan and Dr Joe Hennessy operate from the practice, and can prescribe metal, ceramic and Invisalign braces to patients.
Furthermore, paediatric dentists Dr Aifric Ni Chaollai, Dr Elaine Shore and Dr Charlotte McCarra specialise in children’s oral health, and is available throughout the week to see patients and answer your questions. Our newly refurbished reception area also includes a new children’s play area!
Working as a dentist in Cabinteely is clearly very rewarding, according to dentist Dr Brendan O’Connor. “No two days are ever the same in Cabinteely,” he says. “I just love the variety of the work here,” he says.
“In the time I’ve been here, I’ve built up a great rapport with our clients. Part of that is also down to the fact that we have a personal, dedicated service and we’re in a strong community setting.”
Bear in mind that our Cabinteely dentist has ample free parking as well as disabled access.
If you want to book an appointment with our Cabinteely dentist, please call our practice on 01-2853666 or click this link to book an appointment online. Our dentist in Cabinteely is open on Mondays and Fridays from 9-6; on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9-7; on Thursdays from 9-7.30; on Saturdays from 9-1; and every lunchtime.
Dental implants an effective remedy for missing teeth
Dental Care Ireland is committed to providing a reliable, community dental experience. Dental implants are an effective remedy for missing teeth. If you’re thinking about dental implants, we’re here for you
Oral health requires long-term maintenance, and with our busy modern lifestyles, even good diet and brushing regularly – tooth loss can sometimes occur.
Missing teeth may seem like an insurmountable challenge – but with implants, a solution is readily at hand. Modern implants can offer a permanent alternative to traditional dentures.
So, what is a dental implant? Dental implants can be thought of as biocompatible titanium anchors which provide a suitable platform for permanent ceramic crowns. Once successfully placed, dental implants effectively become part of your jawbone. Titanium is both bio-compatible and non-allergenic leading to predictable and clinically proven long-term stability.
After implant placement, dental crowns can then be created leading to a terrific aesthetic result. The safe, predictable dental implant placement protocol can take time – from six weeks to six months, depending on the scale of the treatment required.
Following implant placement and a healing phase, you will then be recommended to place a crown, bridge or denture in the affected area (depending on your treatment needs). In some cases this will be undertaken by your general dentist or at our clinic by our specialist prosthodontist.
Our practices around the country have vast experience in dental implant placement and utilise the latest materials and training. Implants are a safe, reliable way to ensure that your smile stays as radiant as ever!
If you’re looking to book an appointment with the aim of fitting dental implants, Dental Care Ireland practices can offer you the help you need. Our practices open throughout the day and at weekends, so make sure you check our opening hours before booking an appointment
How to look after your teeth in middle age
Dental Care Ireland is committed to providing a reliable, community dental experience. If you have any queries about looking after your teeth in middle age, please get in touch with us
Just like we look after our overall health, looking after your dental and oral health is a lifelong task. If we neglect to look after our teeth, we will encounter decay, disease and, potentially, tooth loss. It is particularly important to look after your teeth in middle age, as this is the time when they can weaken if they are not cared for properly.
So, what can you do to ensure that you maintain strong and healthy teeth in middle age?
Of course, the most important thing you can do is to remember to keep visiting your dentist regularly. Regular review will help prevent any dental issues before they occur – giving you piece of mind and a healthy mouth.
It’s important to keep brushing your teeth twice a day. You should brush for at least two minutes in a circular motion – your dentist and hygienist can help demonstrate the best method. It’s also important to floss, as brushing your teeth only cleans roughly half of the area of your teeth.
Teeth in middle age can be sensitive, so an electric toothbrush and interdental brushes can help with these tasks. If you notice bleeding when you brush, you should see your dentist who can best advise on your oral health, brushing techniques and diet. They can also help with smoking cessation.
As we age, our teeth naturally tend to get slightly darker and a little more yellow. Whitening products can help – and your dentist is best placed to advise on these. Sugar-free chewing gum can help reduce acid levels in your mouth after meals, helping keep your tooth enamel strong.
If you have any questions about oral health care in middle age, don’t hesitate to contact your local dentist for a consultation.
If you’re looking to book an appointment to discuss the health of your teeth in middle age, Dental Care Ireland practices can offer you the help you need. Our practices open throughout the day and at weekends, so make sure you check our opening hours before booking an appointment
Claregalway dentist draws patients from far and wide
Our Claregalway dentist, just ten kilometres outside Galway city, is a fantastic addition to our nationwide dental network
As a busy town just ten kilometres from Galway city, Claregalway is no stranger to passing trade – something to which the newest addition to the Dental Care Ireland network of dental practices can attest.
“We are on the busy N17 and close to the N83, which means patients from many counties can get to us easily,” says Joan Quinn, practice manager at the Claregalway dentist. “We pride ourselves in taking care of patients from all parts of Galway, as well as from the rest of Connacht, Clare and Limerick.”
Modern and progressive
Established by Dr Martin McCarthy in October 2002, who still works as a general dentist in the practice, the practice formerly known as Claregalway Dental Surgery is a vital part of the community. “We’ve been open for 16 years, but we have stayed modern and progressive all that time,” says Joan.
“I’m from Tuam but I’ve been working in the dental practice as manager since it opened in 2002 – I initially trained as a dental nurse with Martin in Galway city; we’ve been working together for 23 years now!” she says.
The Claregalway dentist has expanded to cater for the demand in the local area, with six general dentists available to see. “We have a big practice here, with five surgeries,” says Joan. “Along with our dentists, we have six dental nurses which includes two trainees, a receptionist and myself here. We also take on a trainee dental nurse from Athlone Institute of Technology for work experience throughout the year.”
Treatments ‘taking off’
The Claregalway dentist offers the usual general treatments, along with specialised treatments such as root canal, surgical extraction, crown and bridge work, implant crowns and tooth whitening, which Joan says has “really taken off in the past year”.
The refurbishment has created a serious buzz among the locals and the staff alike. “The practice is so bright and fresh now that people have told us it reminds them more of a hotel spa than a dental practice, which can only be a good thing,” says Joan.
Calm, trusting environment
“It’s our job to create and maintain a calm, trusting environment, and I think we’ve got the balance right. Having Dental Care Ireland on board just adds to that,” she says. “Rebranding the surgery has been brilliant for us, as Dental Care Ireland take care of the day-to-day running of the practice while we focus on what we do best: taking care of patients.”
So, what do the team in Claregalway do to put patients’ minds at ease? “Our style is friendly and personal – we have built up trust among patients over the years, and the family-based element of the practice, as well as being involved in the community, is so important to us,” says Joan.
The friendly approach is also evident among the staff. “Our team is great – we socialise together, have lunch together and enjoy regular nights out,” says Joan. “We also regularly visit community-based day centres, mother and toddler groups and schools throughout the year – it’s great to give something back to the community.”
Bustling feel in Claregalway
All in all, the Claregalway dentist is an integral part of people’s lives in the area, and the team are looking forward to welcoming existing and new patients into the practice and continuing their great relationship with other local businesses.
“It’s great to get good support from local businesses – we’re close to SuperValu, Claregalway Pharmacy, Treat Café and The Fancy Nest and Beyond Beauty,” says Joan. “The people in Claregalway are so nice and friendly – it’s a growing town full of young families which adds to the bustling feel about the place. We’re delighted to be here!”
The Dental Care Ireland practice in Claregalway is located in the heart of the town, in Cahergowan. Our Claregalway dentist is open from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday. Get in touch with the team today to book an appointment. Call 091-798333 or click the link above to book online
What are wisdom teeth warning signs?
Wisdom teeth can cause pain and stress, so it’s important to know the warning signs that they are appearing, as well as ways in which to minimise discomfort
“For many of us, the arrival of wisdom teeth can be both disruptive and painful” says Dr Paul O’Dwyer, group clinical advisor at Dental Care Ireland.
“By knowing the warning signs of a problem wisdom tooth, however, it is possible to relieve discomfort and treat any issues early on. Thanks to modern medicine, the removal of these teeth is now a straight-forward and largely pain free procedure.”
What are wisdom teeth?
Often referred to as third molars, these are the last teeth to arrive in the mouth. Most adults have 32 teeth, including 4 wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth. These typically erupt after the body has finished its development, between the ages of 18 and 24. The number of wisdom teeth can vary from person to person, and in some cases, they may not appear at all.
It is common for a wisdom tooth to cause some discomfort and pain, mainly due to a lack of space in the mouth. Where there is not sufficient room, the wisdom teeth can erupt at an angle or only partially push through the gum. This is what is known as an impacted wisdom tooth.
Wisdom tooth warning signs
Not all wisdom teeth will cause issues, even if they are impacted. Where pain arises, however, it is important to visit a dentist as soon as possible. Signs and symptoms of a problem wisdom 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
Wisdom teeth pain relief
When wisdom teeth become impacted, your dentist will usually advise that they be removed to provide long-term relief. As an initial response to wisdom tooth pain, however, there are some home remedies that can help.
Mouth rinse
Rinsing the mouth with salt water or a medicated rinse such as Corsodyl can help reduce bacteria in the gums and thus tackle the source of pain. Make sure to carefully follow directions for use.
Analgesics
Over the counter pain relief such as ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation of the gums and the throbbing pain that comes with it. Follow directions for recommended dose to help ease discomfort.
Numbing dental gel
A numbing dental gel that contains the active ingredient benzocaine can help reduce feelings in the gums, thus numbing the pain.
Wisdom teeth removal
If you are experiencing severe pain or discomfort from your wisdom tooth, your dentist will assess whether or not it needs to be removed.
- An X-ray of the mouth will give the dentist a clearer picture of the position of the teeth.
- Before the procedure, the patient is usually given a local/ general anaesthetic or sedation to numb the area around the tooth.
- The main aim is to safely remove the tooth, while keeping the patient as comfortable as possible.
- Patients may experience some swelling and discomfort for a few days after the tooth has been removed.
If left untreated, some problematic wisdom teeth can eventually lead to further issues, such as:
- Damage to other teeth
- Cysts
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Jaw problems
Preventing infection
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.
Contact us today for more information.
Six steps to a healthy Christmas smile
It’s possible to enjoy the festivities without losing your Christmas smile. Check out our tips below
“From fizzy drinks and chocolates, to wine and even the fruit in our Christmas pudding, many of the food and drinks we indulge in over Christmas are particularly acidic, and can lead to erosion of teeth, according to Dr Paul O’Dwyer, Group Clinical Advisor at Dental Care Ireland.
“With a bit of thought and planning, however, it is possible to enjoy all your seasonal favourites, and still maintain a healthy mouth and smile too.”
Six simple steps to a healthy Christmas smile:
Restrict treats to mealtime
Instead of grazing on selection boxes, biscuits or sweets throughout the day, enjoy a few treats as dessert after a meal. Saliva production increases during meals, which helps rinse away sugary food particles and can reduce the risk of cavities.
Beware of hidden sugars
As well as frequency of snacking, the length of time sugary food stays in your mouth can affect tooth decay. Avoid treats that tend to linger in the mouth, such as hard candy canes or sticky sweets, as they will do the most damage to teeth. The dried fruit in seasonal favourites such as Christmas puddings and mince pies is also high in sugar and likely to stick to teeth.
Cheese please
Cheese helps return the mouth to its natural acid balance and reduce the chances of developing tooth decay. Even a small piece of cheese can have a positive effect, so enjoy that cheeseboard after dinner!
Tooth-friendly turkey
Another tooth-friendly Christmas staple is turkey. Turkey is a great source of phosphorus and protein, both of which can help your body fight tooth decay and keep your teeth strong and healthy.
Drink water
Where possible, avoid fizzy drinks and even fruit drinks or smoothies that can often be viewed as healthy but tend sometimes to be high in sugar and bad for your teeth. If you enjoy a glass or two of wine, it is best consumed with food to alleviate potential damage to teeth. Both red and white wine can stain teeth so be sure to brush well afterwards.
Drinking plenty of water throughout the festivities will help to dilute any acid attacks caused by sugary snacks or drinks.
Remember your routine
As teeth may be exposed to more sugar and acid over the Christmas period, maintaining a basic dental care routine at home is key for all the family. Ideally, brush twice per day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and drink plenty of water.
After eating sugary treats, a good tip is to wait 30 minutes before brushing. Some acidic foods soften your enamel, so if you brush right after eating them, you can risk hurting your enamel further while it is still sensitive.
