Discover Hillary Street Dental Practice
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve answered some of our most commonly asked queries below. If you still have burning questions, then feel free to get in touch with our team for more information.
Discover Hillary Street Dental Practice
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve answered some of our most commonly asked queries below. If you still have burning questions, then feel free to get in touch with our team for more information.
Treatment Questions
Is teeth whitening suitable for me?
Teeth whitening can be a key component of a smile makeover. We always assess your teeth to determine suitability, as it may not be recommended for patients with high sensitivity. It’s important to note that we may not be able to treat all of your teeth since whitening cannot change the colour of fillings, crowns, or veneers. Your dedicated dentist can explain and suggest the available options!
Can I spread the cost of my treatment?
Yes, we’re proud to offer DenPlan to break payments down into instalments. Get in touch today and we’ll take it from there!
Should I get a veneer or a crown?
Veneers and crowns are both made from porcelain or ceramic and can be colour matched to your teeth. However, a veneer is a thin layer bonded to the front of your tooth, while a crown covers the entire tooth. A crown might be necessary due to significant damage or discolouration. Your dentist can recommend the best option based on your specific needs.
Why do I need to wear a retainer after straightening my teeth?
Your teeth can gradually shift back to their original positions, so we recommend closely following your dentist’s advice to maintain their new alignment. We wouldn’t want you to lose your pearly new whites!
Can I make my teeth whiter?
At Hillary Street Dental Surgery, we offer teeth whitening treatment to help add that shine back to your teeth. We’d recommend seeing a dentist first to ensure you don’t need any other treatment before beginning.
Practice Questions
Can I get an emergency appointment?
Need urgent dental care? We’ve got you covered! Our practice offers emergency appointments every weekday. Book same day emergency appointments via our online booking system. Your dental health and happiness is our priority.
I’m anxious about dental treatment. Can you assist me?
It’s completely common for people to be afraid of the dentist but we promise, we don’t bite! Let us know your concerns and we’ll be more than happy to help you feel comfortable.
General Questions
Why is flossing so important?
Flossing cleans the small spaces between teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. Food particles and debris can get trapped in these areas, leading to plaque buildup. If not removed, plaque hardens and becomes difficult to eliminate. Over time, bacteria in plaque can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Daily flossing removes many of these particles, preventing plaque buildup and promoting a healthier mouth.
How do I know if I have tooth decay?
Tooth decay, also known as cavities or caries, occurs when teeth are exposed to sugary and/or starchy foods or drinks over time. Bacteria in plaque—a sticky film that constantly forms on the teeth—interact with sugars to produce acid. These acids attack tooth enamel, causing teeth to weaken and decay.
The symptoms of a cavity vary depending on its size and location in the mouth. Some people may not experience any symptoms, while others may have one or more of the following:
- Intermittent pain or toothache
- Increased tooth sensitivity, especially when consuming hot or cold foods or drinks
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Discoloration of the tooth, which can indicate tooth decay or staining.
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your dentist for assistance.
Why do I have bad breath?
While bad breath originates in the mouth 80% of the time, it can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying disease that requires prompt treatment.
Persistent bad breath is typically caused by the smelly gases produced by bacteria coating your teeth and gums. Smoking, garlic, and onions can exacerbate the issue. Certain illnesses, such as diabetes, liver or kidney problems, nasal or stomach conditions, and “dry mouth” (xerostomia), which affects saliva flow, can also cause bad breath.
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Here are common signs of receding gums and bone loss:
- Teeth may appear longer or the gums seem to pull away from them.
- A yellowish edge may be visible where the tooth meets the gum (exposed tooth structure known as dentine).
- Sensitivity at the gumline may occur.
- Deep pockets between teeth may form.
- Spaces between teeth may develop.
- Changes in how teeth come together when biting may be noticed.
- Teeth may feel loose (mobile).
- Gums may be swollen, tender, or bleed easily.
- Bad breath or pus from the gums may be present.
Discover Hillary Street Dental Practice
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve answered some of our most commonly asked queries below. If you still have burning questions, then feel free to get in touch with our team for more information.
Discover Hillary Street Dental Practice
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve answered some of our most commonly asked queries below. If you still have burning questions, then feel free to get in touch with our team for more information.
Treatment Questions
Is teeth whitening suitable for me?
Teeth whitening can be a key component of a smile makeover. We always assess your teeth to determine suitability, as it may not be recommended for patients with high sensitivity. It’s important to note that we may not be able to treat all of your teeth since whitening cannot change the colour of fillings, crowns, or veneers. Your dedicated dentist can explain and suggest the available options!
Can I spread the cost of my treatment?
Yes, we’re proud to offer DenPlan to break payments down into instalments. Get in touch today and we’ll take it from there!
Should I get a veneer or a crown?
Veneers and crowns are both made from porcelain or ceramic and can be colour matched to your teeth. However, a veneer is a thin layer bonded to the front of your tooth, while a crown covers the entire tooth. A crown might be necessary due to significant damage or discolouration. Your dentist can recommend the best option based on your specific needs.
Why do I need to wear a retainer after straightening my teeth?
Your teeth can gradually shift back to their original positions, so we recommend closely following your dentist’s advice to maintain their new alignment. We wouldn’t want you to lose your pearly new whites!
Can I make my teeth whiter?
At Hillary Street Dental Surgery, we offer teeth whitening treatment to help add that shine back to your teeth. We’d recommend seeing a dentist first to ensure you don’t need any other treatment before beginning.
Practice Questions
Can I get an emergency appointment?
Need urgent dental care? We’ve got you covered! Our practice offers emergency appointments every weekday. Book same day emergency appointments via our online booking system. Your dental health and happiness is our priority.
I’m anxious about dental treatment. Can you assist me?
It’s completely common for people to be afraid of the dentist but we promise, we don’t bite! Let us know your concerns and we’ll be more than happy to help you feel comfortable.
General Questions
Why is flossing so important?
Flossing cleans the small spaces between teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. Food particles and debris can get trapped in these areas, leading to plaque buildup. If not removed, plaque hardens and becomes difficult to eliminate. Over time, bacteria in plaque can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Daily flossing removes many of these particles, preventing plaque buildup and promoting a healthier mouth.
How do I know if I have tooth decay?
Tooth decay, also known as cavities or caries, occurs when teeth are exposed to sugary and/or starchy foods or drinks over time. Bacteria in plaque—a sticky film that constantly forms on the teeth—interact with sugars to produce acid. These acids attack tooth enamel, causing teeth to weaken and decay.
The symptoms of a cavity vary depending on its size and location in the mouth. Some people may not experience any symptoms, while others may have one or more of the following:
- Intermittent pain or toothache
- Increased tooth sensitivity, especially when consuming hot or cold foods or drinks
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Discoloration of the tooth, which can indicate tooth decay or staining.
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your dentist for assistance.
Why do I have bad breath?
While bad breath originates in the mouth 80% of the time, it can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying disease that requires prompt treatment.
Persistent bad breath is typically caused by the smelly gases produced by bacteria coating your teeth and gums. Smoking, garlic, and onions can exacerbate the issue. Certain illnesses, such as diabetes, liver or kidney problems, nasal or stomach conditions, and “dry mouth” (xerostomia), which affects saliva flow, can also cause bad breath.
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Here are common signs of receding gums and bone loss:
- Teeth may appear longer or the gums seem to pull away from them.
- A yellowish edge may be visible where the tooth meets the gum (exposed tooth structure known as dentine).
- Sensitivity at the gumline may occur.
- Deep pockets between teeth may form.
- Spaces between teeth may develop.
- Changes in how teeth come together when biting may be noticed.
- Teeth may feel loose (mobile).
- Gums may be swollen, tender, or bleed easily.
- Bad breath or pus from the gums may be present.