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Dental Care Ireland Killarney Wins Award

Dental Care Ireland Killarney Wins ‘Caring Dental Team of the Year 2023’. We are thrilled to announce that Dental Care Ireland Killarney, formerly Fuller Dental, has been awarded Colgate’s Caring Dental Team of the Year for 2023. This family-oriented practice, led by brothers Dr. David and Dr. Declan Fuller, is setting new standards for patient care in Kerry.

A Commitment to Patient Care

Dental Care Ireland Killarney were nominated for Colgate’s Caring Dental Team of the Year by a patient with chronic pain syndrome and arthritis. In nominating, their patient said “Their exceptional patience and flexibility in accommodating the patient’s unique challenges, set them apart. In addition, their commitment to providing emergency care during the pandemic showcases a dedication to the well-being of their patients.”

The patient, who has been attending Dental Care Ireland Killarney for many years, expressed gratitude for the exceptional care they received from the Fuller brothers and their team. “Despite facing the challenges of managing chronic pain and utilising crutches for mobility, the team’s unwavering patience and understanding is greatly appreciated. There were instances when I had to cancel appointments on short notice due to the immense pain, the team always displayed remarkable compassion. During the pandemic, the team ensured I received the necessary emergency care that I needed.”

At Dental Care Ireland, care is at the centre of everything we do. This is why the Colgate Caring Dental Team Award is such a great acknowledgement for our Killarney team. This is Dental Care Ireland’s second major award of 2023, it comes on the back of ‘Employer of The Year’ at The Irish Dentistry Awards in September.

The Colgate Recognition

Colgate’s Caring Dental Team of the Year award is a prestigious accolade that recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of dentistry. Dental Care Ireland Killarney’s achievement reflects the team’s commitment to excellent and patient care.

Talking about the award, Dr. David Fuller says “An award of any sort is great at any time, but such recognition from one’s patients and one’s peers magnifies that accolade wonderfully. It’s a huge boost to our team, and we’d like to thank everyone involved. This includes the Dental Care Ireland group, who I’d like to thank for the technology investment, but always allowing us to prioritise patient care at all times”.

The Fuller Brothers: Caring Kerrymen 

At the heart of Dental Care Ireland Killarney are the Fuller brothers, Dr. David and Dr. Declan. Born and bred in Killarney, Dr. David graduated from UCC in 1978 and set up Fuller Dental in 1980. His brother, Dr. Declan joined him at Fuller Dental in 1998 and the brothers have been providing dental care to the people of Killarney ever since.

Outside of their practice, the Fuller brothers are heavily involved in their local community. They both take part in their local rugby and cycling clubs, and Dr. Declan can often be found refereeing local rugby matches!

As Dental Care Ireland Killarney continues to lead the way in dental care in Kerry, the Fuller brothers and their team remind us that, at the heart of dentistry, it’s the care for patients that truly matters. Congratulations to the entire team at Dental Care Ireland Killarney on this remarkable achievement!

PRSI: Frequently Asked Questions

Dental Care Ireland is pleased to offer a PRSI Dental Examination, scale and polish for only €15, to all those who qualify under PRSI, including self-employed individuals. This includes small business owners, farmers, tradespeople, freelancers, contractors, and professionals. 

Unsure how to claim your PRSI entitlements? No problem, we have answered your more frequently asked questions below:

Who can claim PRSI entitlements? 

The Treatment Benefit Scheme is available to insured workers, the self-employed and retired people who have the required number of social insurance (PRSI) contributions.

To qualify, you must have paid class A, E, P, H or S social insurance (PRSI) contributions. The amount of social insurance you need depends on your age.

If your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant does not have enough social insurance contributions, he/she may still qualify for Treatment Benefit on your social insurance record. To do this, you must qualify for Treatment Benefit and your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant must be dependent on you.

For more detailed information, contact the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection on 074 91 64480, or visit www.welfare.ie

How do I check if I am eligible?

Call your local Dental Care Ireland practice, and our reception team will check your eligibility on your behalf. We will require your consent to do so, your PPSN and date of birth.

  • If your claim is “approved “, you will be eligible for an PRSI Dental Examination, Scale & Polish within the calendar year for only €15.
  • If your claim is “pending “, it may mean that a large volume of checks are being processed by the site at the time, or that your eligibility requires further checks by a welfare administrator. In this case, we will be obliged to charge full private fees on the day of your appointment. If/when we receive confirmation of your eligibility, we will reimburse the excess, so that you can still avail of an Exam, Scale & Polish for €15.
  • If your claim is “not approved “, you can still choose to make an appointment privately.

Contact information for all of our practices can be found here.

I didn’t claim my entitlements last year, can I claim twice this year? 

No, it is not possible to claim twice in one year. These benefits are only available once per calendar year, from January to December.

I’m eligible for PRSI entitlements, what do I receive?

The following dental benefits are available to insured workers, the self-employed and retired people who have the required number of social insurance (PRSI) contributions:

  • A full oral examination once a calendar year
  • A subsidised scale & polish (capped cost of €15)
    • OR alternatively, a part-subsidised “Protracted Periodontal Treatment”. This is a deep cleaning, often carried out under local anaesthetic, where a regular scale & polish would not be sufficient to restore optimum gum health.

These entitlements are available to those eligible once per calendar year. This means that you may claim once between 1st January and 31st December each year, not once every twelve months.

If you still have questions, your local Dental Care Ireland team will be on hand and happy to assist you.

If you would like to book an appointment to avail of your 2020 PRSI entitlements, please click this link to your local Dental Care Ireland practice below to find their contact details or alternatively book your appointment online today. AshbourneCarlowCastlebarClaregalwayEnnisGreystonesKnocklyonSwordsTuamTullamoreCabinteelyKellsNavanNDC or Callan.

The New ‘Normal’ | COVID-19 Dental FAQ’s

In line with the HSE and Irish Dental Council guidelines, all Dental Care Ireland practice have resumed normal service on a phased and gradual basis since Monday 18th May 2020. With that, we have introduced many changes and new measures ensuring the safety of patients, dentist and staff, and understandably people have questions. So we’ve answered your most frequently asked COVID-19 dental questions below:

  • Are Dental Care Ireland practices open?

Yes. All Dental Care Ireland practices are now open and resuming care to patients. Your local practice’s contact details can be found here. We do ask that you do not visit your local practice in-person without a pre-arranged appointment.

  • Is it safe to attend dental appointments while COVID-19 restrictions are still underway?

Yes. Dental Care Ireland have implemented a number of new measures to ensure everyone’s safety, including the following:

    • Staggered & lengthened appointments
    • Pre-appointment screening
    • Staff and patient temperature checks
    • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
    • Aerosol reduction/mitigation measures
    • Increased infection prevention & control (IPC) processes
    • Addition of air purifier machines
    • Installation of Perspex screen for reception

During our transition to a new normal, Dental Care Ireland will be following the government, HSE and Irish Dental Council guidelines at all times.

  • How do I book an appointment?

To book an appointment, contact your local Dental Care Ireland practice via phone or email. The team will be on hand explain our new measures and depending on when your appointment is, they may go through our screening process with you.

  • Are you accepting new patients?

Yes. All Dental Care Ireland practices are welcoming new patients.

  • I’m nervous about my appointment, what changes should I expect?

We understand taking a trip to the dentist can be daunting on the best of days, let along without the added anxiety of COVID-19.

But at Dental Care Ireland, while many things within the practice have changed, one thing has remained the same: our commitment to your safety. Therefore, you will notice that we have installed sanitisation stations, perspex screen for reception and air purifier machines in the surgery.

You’ll also find that our dentists, hygienists and nurses will be donning Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), but under the layers is still the same great team.

  • What should I do if I have a dental emergency?

If you have a dental emergency, please call your local Dental Care Ireland practice immediately. A team member will be on hand to advise you on what to do next.

If you have jaw swelling that is causing difficulty in breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or facial trauma please go to your nearest A&E department.

Due to COVID-19, please do not arrive at the practice without an appointment.

  • I’m over 70 years of age and have been ‘cocooning’, but I need to see a dentist. What should I do?

Call us. Our team will be able to advise you on your options.

If you are comfortable attending the practice, we will talk you through our new measures and arrange an appointment for you. But if you wish to continue ‘cocooning’, our team will be happy to provide telephone support and advice, so give us a call and one of our dentists will do their best to help you.

If you want to book a dental appointment with any Dental Care Ireland practice or or have a COVID-19 dental question we didn’t answer above, contact your local practice here.

Returning To Care: COVID-19 Update

Dental Care Ireland Returning To Care: COVID-19 Update: We are delighted to inform you that Dental Care Ireland practices will be resuming normal service on a phased and gradual basis from Monday 18th May 2020.

Our community has been through a lot over the last few months, and all of us are looking forward to resuming our normal habits and routines. While many things have changed, one thing has remained the same: our commitment to your safety.

During our transition to general treatment, Dental Care Ireland will be following the government, HSE and Irish Dental Council guidelines at all times.

As a result, and to ensure the safety of dentists, staff and patients Dental Care Ireland has implemented a number of measures, including the following:

  • Staggered & lengthened appointments
  • Pre-appointment screening
  • Staff and patient temperature checks
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Aerosol reduction/mitigation measures
  • Increased infection prevention & control (IPC) processes
  • Addition of air purifier machines
  • Installation of Perspex screen for reception

In the weeks ahead, we will be prioritising those patients who had a dental emergency during lockdown. We will also be contacting any patients who had scheduled appointments cancelled due to the lockdown to re-book these appointments and will then be reintroducing our dental hygiene services later on in the month of June.

We look forward to seeing you again and are happy to answer any questions you may have about the steps we take to keep you, and every patient, safe in our practice. Should you wish to make an appointment, contact your local practice here.

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

First Dental Visit

Throughout the month of March 2018, Dental Care Ireland will be offering a free first dental visit to all patients under the age of five.

To book your appointment, contact your nearest practice.

Terms & Conditions:

  • Subject to availability.
  • Only valid between 1st – 31st March 2018.
  • Not available at Northumberland Institute of Dental Medicine.

Dealing with bad breath for Valentine’s Day

It’s something that nobody wants to consider, but bad breath affects one in four of us. Make sure your dental health is in good shape by following these tips

 

Valentine’s Day is a time for love, and is treasured by couples everywhere. A kiss on Valentine’s Day is something many people will be hoping for, but for one in four people, bad breath may hamper their chances.

According to the Irish Dental Association, 25% of Irish people are dealing with chronic bad breath (or halitosis) at any given time, but even so, it’s a reality that many people can avoid by following just a few quick steps.

A common cause of chronic bad breath is bacteria in the mouth working to naturally break down food, leading to some plaque lingering on your teeth, tongue and gums. When combined with saliva, this plaque can produce an unpleasant smell.

It’s important to remember that brushing only deals with about 60% of this plaque build-up, so make sure that you floss regularly to get to those places where your toothbrush cannot reach, and limit the amount of bacteria and plaque in your mouth.

It’s also important to brush your teeth effectively when dealing with bad breath – generally speaking, you need to brush for a at least two minutes and be sure to change your toothbrush every 3-4 months. You may want to rinse with an antibacterial or odour eliminating mouthwash too.

Of course strong-smelling foods such as onions and garlic can affect your breath, but this is often only temporary and will go once you brush and floss.

Predictably, smoking is also a likely cause of your bad breath. As well as the lingering smell of stale smoke, smoking stains your teeth, irritates your gums and increases your chance of tooth decay and gum disease.

If you follow the steps above and your bad breath persists, it could be a sign of tooth decay or gum disease. Make sure you see your dentist regularly so that you can avoid dealing with bad breath in the first place.

Dental Care Ireland has practices around the country. Get in touch with your local practice for an appointment, and remember you can also book an appointment online

Preparing Your Teeth for Pregnancy

“Women are more prone to gum disease during pregnancy, explains Dr Paul O’Dwyer, group clinical advisor at Dental Care Ireland.

“Gums can often become swollen or tender, and may bleed during brushing. The good news is that they usually return to normal after delivery, and any sensitivity should also diminish. In the meantime, keeping up a thorough oral health routine will help your teeth in pregnancy, as well as ensuring plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables in your diet.”

Gum Disease

Hormonal changes during pregnancy increase blood flow to the gum tissue, which can cause gums to become more sensitive, leading to inflammation and bleeding. This condition is referred to as pregnancy gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease. It affects between 50% and 70% of women at some time during their pregnancy.

If left untreated, it can develop into full periodontal disease, which infects the bone and other tissue supporting the teeth. It is important therefore, to keep the teeth and gums as clean and healthy as possible during pregnancy, by maintaining a good oral health routine.

Morning Sickness

If you experience morning sickness during pregnancy, think twice before reaching for your toothbrush!

When you are sick, you expose your teeth to acid, which can soften your enamel. If you brush straight away, you can risk hurting your enamel further while it is still sensitive. Instead, rinse your mouth with water or an alcohol-free mouthwash, and wait 30 minutes before brushing.

Dental Treatments

Ideally, schedule a dental check-up before you are pregnant, to ensure that any outstanding or urgent treatment can be completed.

It is safe and recommended to continue to visit your dentist or dental hygienist for a check-up and routine dental work during pregnancy. However, dental x-rays should be avoided while pregnant. Always make sure to tell your dentist that you are pregnant.

8 Pregnancy Dental Health Tips:

  1. Brush teeth thoroughly at least twice daily, using a fluoride toothpaste
  2. Floss teeth every day
  3. Rinse with water or alcohol-free mouthwash after morning sickness
  4. Introduce a soft-bristled brush for sensitive teeth
  5. Schedule a dental check-up and professional clean
  6. Maintain a balanced and varied diet
  7. Avoid snacking on food or drinks with a high sugar content
  8. Take note of food or drinks that trigger sensitivity

If you’re looking to book an appointment for you or your child, Dental Care Ireland has 13 practices nationwide, that can offer all forms of dental treatments 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 of your local practice. 

A guide to teeth whitening in Dublin

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

 

More and more often, people are enquiring about teeth whitening in Dublin, and indeed all around the country. It is an incredibly popular treatment, and for good reason. It helps give people a better smile, and makes their teeth gleam.

Interestingly, one of the biggest misconceptions about dental health is that our teeth are white in colour. In fact, they are more likely to be grey or yellow. Baby teeth look very white, due to a thin layer of enamel which allows light through to your teeth. However, as we age, our permanent teeth grow, which have stronger dentine and enamel. Light doesn’t travel through these easily, so they look darker.

But that fact doesn’t stop people looking to get their teeth whitened!

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.

Your dentist will first need to examine your teeth, mouth and gums to better understand if there are any outstanding treatment needs and to assess your suitability for teeth whitening.

He or she will then take impressions of your teeth to make the teeth whitening trays for use with a home whitening kit. You will then receive an appointment to try out the kit and will receive advice and instruction on how to use it in the best possible manner.

Your dentist will also work closely with you to identify the shade of white you wish to achieve. Teeth whitening can take approximately 10 days to three weeks depending on the shade you have chosen.

It is important to remember that whitening your teeth involves a bit of time and effort, but it is worth it. Your teeth occasionally can be a little sensitive after the treatment, but this generally resolves itself shortly afterwards. But remember to keep taking care of your teeth afterwards!

If you’re looking to book an appointment for teeth whitening in Dublin, the Dental Care Ireland practices in Swords, Knocklyon and Cabinteely 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

Invisalign braces: the future of orthodontics?

Dental Care Ireland is committed to providing a reliable, community dental experience. If you are interested in orthodontic treatment, get in touch with us

 

Orthodontics is defined as the treatment of irregularities of the teeth and the jaws. Up until recently, people assumed that braces could only really be worn by children, as their jaws and teeth were generally softer than those of adults, and thus had the potential to be “corrected” effectively.

Fortunately, technology has improved hugely the design of braces, and now the likes of Invisalign braces have resulted in more controlled, faster, less forceful orthodontic movement of teeth. Importantly, these new braces, and others like them, are far more discreet than some of the older models, resulting in a surge of interest from adults.

Barely visible

Invisalign braces work to straighten teeth using a series of clear plastic aligners which are custom-made for the patient’s mouth. The aligners are removable and are barely visible, making them particularly popular with adults.

These are just one type of braces that can be used – among other options are ceramic braces which are clear and “tooth-coloured” so they blend in with your teeth to make them almost unnoticeable. Of course, traditional metal braces are still an option, and are still used by children and adolescents.

As technology has improved, so naturally has the prominence of orthodontic treatment acorss the demographic spectrum. A number of celebrities have invested in orthodontics over the past number of years, including Faith Hill and even Faye Dunaway at 61 years old.

Lian O’Dwyer, orthodontist with Dental Care Ireland Knocklyon, says: “The best age for orthodontic treatment varies from patient to patient. A specialist orthodontist will be able to advise you on the appropriate time to start any treatment.

“However, as long as your teeth and gums are healthy there is no age limit to treatment, and an increasing number of adults are availing of the benefits of orthodontic, including Invisalign braces.”

If you’re looking to book an appointment for orthodontic treatment, 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