Dental Care Ireland Archives - Page 7 of 9

Are you interested in teeth whitening for Christmas?

Dental Care Ireland is committed to providing a reliable, community dental experience. If you’re looking to avail of teeth whitening for Christmas, we’re here for you.

We have seen a huge increase in people who are enquiring about teeth whitening for Christmas, and indeed all around the country. It is a very popular treatment, and for good reason. Teeth whitening helps give people a better smile for the festive season!

It can be tempting to make the decision to opt for teeth whitening on a whim. However, at Dental Care Ireland, we recommend that the first step in deciding whether or not to whiten your teeth should be taken in consultation with your dentist. Our dentists will be able to give you excellent advice on your options.

Your dentist will first need to examine your teeth, mouth and gums to see if you have any outstanding treatment needs and to assess your suitability for teeth whitening.

If you decide to undergo teeth whitening for Christmas, the next step will be for your dentist to take impressions of your teeth. These will be used to make teeth whitening trays for use with a home whitening kit. You will then receive an appointment to try out the kit and get advice as to how best to use it.

Your dentist will also work closely with you to identify the shade of white you wish to achieve. It’s important to remember that teeth whitening can take approximately ten days to three weeks depending on the shade you have chosen.

Whitening your teeth involves a bit of time and effort, but the results are well worth it. Remember that your teeth may be a little sensitive after the treatment, but this generally resolves itself shortly afterwards. Most important of all, remember to keep taking care of your teeth afterwards!

If you’re looking to book an appointment for teeth whitening for Christmas, the Dental Care Ireland practices around the country can offer you the help you need. Dental Care Ireland practices open late, on weekends and during lunchtime, so make sure you consult our opening hours

Another fantastic year for Dental Care Ireland

At Dental Care Ireland, we want to ensure that all our patients have a quality experience and can access any dental treatment

It’s been a fantastic 12 months for Dental Care Ireland, as we officially opened five new practices in our nationwide network, launched exciting new partnerships, featured strongly at the Sensodyne Sensitive Dentist of the Year Awards, and all the while made it easier than ever for new and existing patients to see us by introducing the ability to book online and reminding people to save money by using their PRSI dental entitlements.

Once again, we have greatly expanded our dental network, officially opening practices in Kells, Co Meath, Carlow town, Swords and Knocklyon in Dublin, and Greystones, Co Wicklow since September 2017. We are committed to offering state-of-the-art dental care with a strong community focus around the country.

“People have heard of the Dental Care Ireland name, and it’s important that the practices look the same. That quality is consistent. Obviously the refurbishment has created a buzz among our staff and patients, but it’s also been fantastic to have the support of the other practices around Ireland,” says Christine Downey, practice manager of our Swords dental practice.

But furthermore, we feel it is important to put a continued emphasis on healthy living and good oral care. With that in mind, we are proud to have recently launched a charity partnership with Diabetes Ireland, through which we can raise funds towards Diabetes Ireland’s regional community support services, as well as increasing awareness about the importance of oral health care for people with diabetes.

Dr Paul O’Dwyer, group clinical advisor, Dental Care Ireland, said: “People with diabetes can be more prone to oral health problems such as gum disease, dry mouth, poor healing and oral infections. In most cases, mouth complications can be easily treated, but a thorough dental health routine is an essential part of learning to live with the condition.”

But our work in the community does not stop there. We are also proud to be supporting the 2018 Dental Overseas Voluntary Elective Programme at Trinity College Dublin. The annual initiative, run by the School of Dental Science, will see 22 fourth year dental students travel overseas this summer to provide voluntary dental care in some of the world’s most impoverished locations.

This year’s destinations include Tanzania, Guatemala, Cambodia, Egypt, India and St. Vincent.

Earlier this year, we were delighted to partner with broadcaster and mum Karen Koster on our “First Dental Visit” campaign, whereby we offered a free dental visit to all patients under five for the month of March. It’s so important that children are acquainted with the local dentist at an early age, to make sense of what can be a strange environment!

“We all know about teething and tooth fairies when it comes to our children’s dental health, but otherwise I think there can be a tendency to wait until a problem arises before seeking advice,” says Karen. “At the baby and toddler stage in particular, it is so helpful to speak to a dentist and find out what you should or shouldn’t be doing to prevent potential issues from the outset. I am sure most parents will agree that it is a challenge to get any toddler to brush their teeth, but it’s all about establishing a routine and hopefully encouraging a habit for life,” Karen said.

Furthermore, we received an incredible 13 nominations for in the Sensodyne Sensitive Dentist of the Year Awards, which were held in the RDS last December. It is this commitment to quality and outstanding patient care that sees us honoured by our peers and of course our loyal patients!

At Dental Care Ireland, patients are our top priority, which is why we want the entire patient experience to be an easy, enjoyable one. Online booking is quick, simple and incredibly effective – a one-stop-shop to ensure that you can book an appointment at a time that suits you.

Remember to make sure to check if you qualify for PRSI dental entitlements – if you do, you can avail of an exam, scale and polish in any of our practices for just €15. Get in touch with us today to see if you have dental cover!

To find out more about Dental Care Ireland, 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

Mind Your Mouth! Charity Partnership Announcement

Dental Care Ireland Partners with National Diabetes Charity

Dental Care Ireland, a new network of local dental practices nationwide, today launched a year-long partnership with Diabetes Ireland, the national diabetes charity: Mind Your Mouth!

In Ireland, it is estimated that 250,000 people are living with diabetes, 50% of whom are unaware of their condition. Diabetes is a lifelong condition and if untreated can lead to complications, including oral health problems such as gum disease.

The aim of the partnership is to raise funds towards Diabetes Ireland’s regional community support services, as well as increasing awareness about the importance of oral health care for people with diabetes.

Speaking at the launch of Mind Your Mouth, Dr Paul O’Dwyer, group clinical advisor, Dental Care Ireland, said: “People with diabetes can be more prone to oral health problems such as gum disease, dry mouth, poor healing and oral infections. In most cases, mouth complications can be easily treated, but a thorough dental health routine is an essential part of learning to live with the condition.”

Throughout the year, Dental Care Ireland staff across the country will work with the team at Diabetes Ireland to develop a number of fundraising and awareness initiatives, including a dedicated oral health web section, oral health information talks, and a sponsored “brushathon” to coincide with World Oral Health Day in March.

According to Jennifer Brennan, fundraising manager at Diabetes Ireland: “We are delighted to partner with Dental Care Ireland for the coming year. This partnership gives us an opportunity to raise awareness about diabetes and oral health amongst our members, supporters and the diabetes community. The funds raised through this partnership will also enable us to continue to provide much needed information, care and a range of services to help improve the lives of those affected by diabetes.”

Colm Davitt, chief executive at Dental Care Ireland, commented: “We look forward to working closely with Diabetes Ireland to develop an oral health education programme for people with diabetes and their families, while also raising much needed support funds. It is a fantastic opportunity for our staff members to fundraise in each of our local practice areas, and also to share their specialist knowledge and expertise.”

For information on diabetes and oral health, visit www.diabetes.ie/oralhealth or www.dentalcareireland.ie

Local dentist in Carlow a key part of the community

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

Our long-standing practice on Tullow Street in Carlow town has gone from strength to strength since a state-of-the-art renovation last year. Now, we are delighted to announce that the practice will be shortly taking on a new dentist and hygienist.

This July, dentist Roisin Phelan will be joining the Carlow practice, and will also be available for appointments in Tullamore. Furthermore, hygienist Claire McLoughlin is set to start in Carlow. Roisin and Claire will be valuable additions to our team, as we look to give our patients the very best experience.

Our Carlow practice is a vital part of the community, something that practice manager Sinead Dowling really values. “We’ve all been working here for a good amount of time, and we know all our patients on a first-name basis. There aren’t too many people we don’t recognise, to be honest. And that’s a great thing!” she says.

A key Dental Care Ireland strategy is to retain existing staff when we take over the management of a dental practice. Even though the practice in Carlow has been fully refurbished, the dental team have been operating in the town for nearly 30 years!

“We’re carrying on the same traditions in a whole new, modern practice,” says Sinead. “It looks like a new place but we’re still the same staff providing the same great service.”

The dentist in Carlow also has an orthodontic service led by Dr Angus Burns which caters for both adults and teenagers.

“In terms of a patient experience, we try to keep things light-hearted while staying professional,” says Sinead. “Some people can be nervous coming in to see us, so it always helps to greet people with a smile and try not to be too clinical. That really helps people to relax, as does the fact that we know them all to start with!”

There’s no doubt that Roisin and Claire will fit in seamlessly with the team in Carlow.

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 Carlow, you know where to find us.

If you want to book an appointment with a Dental Care Ireland dentist in Carlow, please get in touch with our team. The dentist is open from 9am to 7pm on Mondays and Thursdays; from 9am to 5.30pm on Tuesdays; from 9am to 5.40pm on Wednesdays and Fridays; and from 9am to 12.40pm on Saturdays

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.

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.

Staff training day and BBQ a roaring success!

Dental Care Ireland’s annual training day and summer barbeque was a fantastic event, and was enjoyed by all our hard-working staff from around the country

On Saturday, 30^th June, the sun was shining and spirits were high as Dental Care Ireland staff from around the country gathered for our annual training day and summer barbeque at Dublin’s Morrison Hotel. These events mean so much to us, as they give us an opportunity to review the year we’ve had, see how we can get even better for you – our patients – and of course have some fun with our colleagues and friends!

Working for patients

We were delighted to see over 120 staff members at the event, many of whom travelled long distances to be there. The focal point of the activities was a full-day training session, which was facilitated by the great team in Horton Consulting along with our Group Clinical Advisor Dr Paul O’Dwyer. This action-packed agenda set the tone for the day and was a fantastic way to understand how we could enhance each room in our practices for patients’ benefit.

From the patient lounge and dentist’s room, to the hygienist’s room and managers’ office, the training explored different ways to expand current systems and improve the overall patient experience.

Everything we do is done with the patient in mind – from the greeting you get when you arrive, to the general atmosphere in the practices and ensuring that all our equipment and fittings are of the very highest standard. Of course, all this is done in with the friendliest, professional attitude. As part of the programme, Dr Paul O’Dwyer also provided an overview for staff on the importance of honesty and decency in the workplace.

Award-winners honoured

The highlight of the training day came with our annual awards, where we can honour those who have really gone the extra mile to give our patients what they need. We were delighted to see Sinead Dowling of our Carlow practice win the Chairman’s Award, while Ann Crosby of the Swords practice took home the “Above and Beyond” award. The Practice of the Year award was hotly contested and eventually went to the outstanding team in Knocklyon.

The day wasn’t all about work, however, and we all enjoyed a well-deserved barbeque, outdoor games and a DJ in the lovely summer sunshine. It was a great way to celebrate a brilliant year for Dental Care Ireland! We have accomplished so much in the year gone by, and we’re looking forward to even bigger and better things for the rest of 2018 and beyond.

Speaking at the opening of the event, Colm Davitt, CEO, Dental Care Ireland, said: “At Dental Care Ireland, we believe that excellence in dentistry is achieved through outstanding patient care, professionalism, training and innovation. As the country’s fastest growing network of established dental practices, it is the quality of our people that sets us apart.”

The future is looking bright for Dental Care Ireland!

To book an appointment at any of the 13 Dental Care Ireland practices around the country, please see dentalcareireland.ie/practices

Dental Care Ireland Hosts Annual Training Day

Dental Care Ireland’s annual training day and summer barbecue was a fantastic opportunity to improve the patient experience at DCI practices around the country.

Collaboration was the key theme at Dental Care Ireland’s annual training day and summer BBQ on Saturday, 30th June in Dublin’s Morrison Hotel.

With over 120 staff members in attendance from practices across the country, the event was designed to bring together the entire DCI team for a day of practical training and peer discussion.

Horton Consulting’s Laura Horton and Michael Bentley led an action-packed agenda, with in-depth presentations on how to enhance each room in the practice. From patient lounge and dentist room, to hygienist room and managers’ office, the training explored different ways to expand current systems and improve the overall patient experience. As part of the programme, Dr Paul O’Dwyer, group clinical advisor at Dental Care Ireland, also provided an overview for staff on the importance of probity.

Founded by Colm Davitt, former CEO of Affidea, and his brother Dr Kieran Davitt, a Galway-based dentist, Dental Care Ireland acquires established, high quality practices in local communities, with a view to helping them reach their full potential. To date, it employs 175 staff across 13 general and specialist dental practices in Dublin, Meath, Carlow, Mayo, Offaly, Wicklow, Galway and Kilkenny.

To book an appointment at any of the 13 Dental Care Ireland practices around the country, please see dentalcareireland.ie/practices.

Dental Care Ireland Supports 2018 Trinity DOVE Programme

Dental Care Ireland is proud to support the 2018 Trinity DOVE Programme, Dental Overseas Voluntary Elective (DOVE) Programme at Trinity College Dublin.

The annual initiative, run by the School of Dental Science, will see 22 fourth year dental students travel overseas this summer to provide voluntary dental care in some of the world’s most impoverished locations.

This year’s destinations include Tanzania, Guatemala, Cambodia, Egypt, India and St. Vincent.

Speaking ahead of the 2018 trip, Emma Mulville, DOVE representative, said: “The Trinity DOVE Programme provides an opportunity for us to make a really positive contribution to the communities that we visit. It also allows us to broaden our experience and knowledge in a very different dental setting. Our committee has worked hard throughout the year to raise funds to make it possible, and it is wonderful to have the additional support of Dental Care Ireland.”

Colm Davitt, chief executive, Dental Care Ireland, commented: “Dental Care Ireland is delighted to support such a worthwhile initiative. The programme has potential to make a real impact on the oral health of those people who need it most. We wish the students every success as they embark on what will no doubt be a rewarding and life-long learning experience.”

Make a success of your child’s first dental visit

Your child’s first dental visit is a hugely important step towards making them feel comfortable and secure in what is a new environment

The old notion of the dentist as someone to be feared is thankfully long gone, but that doesn’t mean that everyone goes to their local practice completely free of nerves. These nerves generally derive from difficult trips to the dentist in childhood, or from exaggerated scare stories heard through the grapevine.

That’s why it’s so important to make sure that your child’s first dental visit is as comfortable and stress-free as possible, so they can be properly introduced to an environment that is both safe and friendly.

How do children’s teeth differ from adults’ teeth?

Children’s teeth differ from adults’ teeth in size, colour and consistency. Generally, children’s teeth are smaller, thinner and whiter than adult teeth, which are bigger, darker, more dense and a little more yellow. Given the size and state of children’s teeth, it is important they get the care they need as early as possible to ensure their oral and dental health are as good as can be.

When should your child see the dentist for the first time?

Your child’s first dental visit should happen when the first tooth appears. This generally occurs when they are six months old.

What can you do to make the first visit as easy as possible?

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, to make sure it’s a stress-free visit. Make sure they have had a sleep so they’re well rested, and also that they’re not hungry or cranky in any way, such as first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon. If you’re rushed or stressed, your child will pick up on that and probably won’t be happy as a result.

You’ll want to give your child a decent bit of time to acclimatise to what is a new and strange environment for them! Dental practices are very bright and clean, and it’s important your child isn’t rushed in and out of the practice too quickly.

Parents are present at all times during the child’s first dental visit to put them at ease, and to hear about what the examination will entail, as well as take-home tips. The dental examination usually involves counting the child’s teeth to see how many have appeared.

Dentists are also looking for a growth pattern, to establish a baseline for what’s present and seeing if there are any tell-tale signs of issues down the line that they can advise on to prevent them becoming a problem.

Overall, the visit should be fun and enjoyable for the child, so that next time they visit, they aren’t scared or apprehensive.

What take-home messages do you need?

After your child’s first dental visit, you will gain some valuable insights into brushing techniques, some oral and dental health advice in general and dietary advice so your child isn’t eating or drinking too many sugary foods and drinks. This is particularly important as it will hopefully establish good dental habits for life.

Your dentist will want to closely monitor your child’s dental health, progression and growth in the months and years to come. 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.

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

Dentist in Castlebar looking after the community

Dental Care Ireland practice manager Margaret Robinson discusses why the community means so much for the dentist in Castlebar, Co Mayo

“We have had patients coming here since the year dot, and they keep coming back.” These are the words of Dental Care Ireland Castlebar practice manager Margaret Robinson, who stresses the importance of the community to the team in the vibrant Co Mayo town.

Dental Care Ireland took over the running of this Castlebar practice in March 2015, but its ties in the community go back nearly 40 years. “I’ve been working in this dental practice for over 30 years – we’re a huge part of the town and everyone knows us,” says Margaret.

“Since Dental Care Ireland have come on board, we have overseen a complete refurbishment with more comfortable surgeries, seats and a fantastic waiting room, and overall a much more modern feel. Many of our staff have been here for decades.”

This dentist in Castlebar employs 11 staff. “We have three dentists, a dental hygienist, a lab technician, a student nurse, three qualified nurses, and other administrative staff. It really is a great atmosphere – we socialise together and get on really well. Our staff turnover is very low because once you start working for this practice in this beautiful town, it’s very difficult to leave.”

Since Dental Care Ireland have come on board, patients have seen an improved experience all round. “Along with the improvements to the actual practice itself, we also offer flexible opening hours, including early openings, opening at lunchtimes and late on certain weekdays,” says Margaret. “We also offer good treatment plans, and cater for PRSI entitlements and medical card holders.

“When patients come in, we always greet them with a smile. This practice is built around patients. Castlebar is a small town, so that familiarity we have with the community really helps. We are lucky to get Christmas cards in the festive season, and make sure to support families who lose loved ones with bereavement cards. That’s the kind of practice we are.”

The dentist in Castlebar has certainly fostered a special atmosphere. “We don’t want people to feel nervous when they come in here, so we add little touches to put them at ease. We have a couple of iPads for children, we get in new books every month so they’re in good condition, and we light a candle every single day. It makes it so nice and relaxed – comfort for the patient is paramount.

The practical benefits don’t end there, as the whole community is catered for. “We are wheelchair-friendly here in Castlebar, as we want easy access for everyone. That makes a huge difference,” says Margaret.

Dental Care Ireland Castlebar offers a variety of treatments, including x-rays, hygienist treatments, fillings and extractions, as well as specialised treatments like root canal treatment and teeth whitening. It’s a formula that leads to patient loyalty. “I see patients in here that we’ve treated since they were children, and they are bringing in their own children now!” says Margaret.

“I’m from Castlebar myself, and I just love working in this town. We have a great mix of experienced and younger staff who know their business but at the end of the day, primarily want to ensure that our patients are happy with our service. That’s what it’s all about.”

This approach is paying dividends, as this dentist in Castlebar is attracting a lot of new business, alongside its regular patients. “Sometimes it feels like we are catering for ten new patients a week,” says Margaret. “Just today I’ve taken the details of four new patients. It’s really busy here, and we thrive on that.”

The DCI Castlebar dental practice is located on Station Road in Castlebar town, and is open on Mondays and Tuesdays from 8am to 7pm, and on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 8am to 5pm. Get in touch with the team today to book an appointment. Click this link or call 094-9022317