Patient Information

Collection of images of people smiling

Thank you for visiting our website. We have gathered important information and answers to the most frequently asked questions on this page. If you have any further queries, feel free to contact us. We will be more than happy to provide you with quality dental care.

We strive to deliver the best diagnosis and follow-up treatment.

You can learn more about us and our service to patients on our testimonials page and listen to other voices, perhaps in a similar situation to you.

Appointments

We will schedule an appointment for you as promptly as possible. We always try to see patients at the appointed time. If you are kept waiting, there will be a reason for it. We appreciate your understanding and patience while another patient is being seen.

If you wish to be seen in an emergency, every attempt will be made to see you that day. We will always answer your call or message.
074 93 22 647 (landline) or 086 6685 007.

Your First Visit

You are very welcome in our practice. We try to make your journey as comfortable as possible. We will listen to your explanation of your problems, issues and wishes.

Baby chewing a toy

After your examination, Dr. Spring will explain to you and show you your problems on screen. She will also make a diagnosis and suggest the appropriate treatment option to suit your needs. You will also receive an estimate of cost.

Some treatments can be performed on the same day. However, complicated medical cases or complex treatment plans will require an evaluation and additional appointment. It is sometimes a benefit to the patient as you have time to think about the options given to you and you may become more convinced about the direction things are developing. You could also provide us with current medications from your GP or current x-rays. Digital x-rays saved on USB or DVD are also acceptable.

Facilities for People with Disabilities

We have ground floor facilities which are suitable for disabled patients, including those in a wheelchair. Our toilet facilities are equipped for those patients also.

Keep us informed

If you change address or telephone number, please let us know as soon as possible. This helps keep our records up to date and recall system more efficient. For example, if you have emigrated, there is no need to send you reminders. You can visit us when you return home. We appreciate your understanding.

Protection

As a caring practice we take all necessary precaution to safeguard both patient and stuff against blood-borne infections such as HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis. If you have suffered one of those infections in the past – don’t worry – you are very welcome. Please let us know in advance to book a suitable appointment as we follow recommended international protection guidelines.

In regard to the sterilization of instruments, we use an autoclave, a device that kills bacteria and viruses by steam, heat and pressure. We also use disposable items.

Everyone benefits from rigorous infection control. Feel free to discuss any concerns with our staff.

How you can help us?

A young family
  • It benefits us and other patients if you could provide us as much notice as possible when you have to cancel or change an appointment.
  • Ask Dr. Spring for as much information as you need on your treatment options. She will assist your choice by helping you visualise them through photographs in the practice album. We encourage you to be involved in your treatment and fully understand your options. We want to work with you and achieve the best outcome for you.
  • If a patient is abusive or violent to any member of staff, treatment will be terminated and the Garda informed.

We appreciate your understanding.

After Care Instructions

Most of the dental procedures nowadays are performed under local anaesthesia in order to allow you to be as comfortable as possible and the dentist to carry out the treatment.

The most common discomfort after dental treatment is the numbness. Avoid any chewing and hot beverages until the feeling wears off completely. It is very easy to bite or burn your tongue, soft tissue or lip. In most cases it should ease after 2 hours.

It is normal to experience some discomfort after injection. If the soft tissue area is painful take Paracetamol or Ibuprofen to alleviate the tenderness. If you experience sensitivity to cold and hot please call us for further assistance on 074 93 22 647 or 086 6685 007.

After crown and bridges appointment

This type of dental work requires two appointments. The first visit is the longest one and requires teeth preparation, taking impressions and the bite registration of your mouth. Finally you will receive temporary crowns or bridge placed to protect your teeth while the custom restoration is being made. In most cases, you will receive your final appointment in two weeks.

Occasionally, the temporary crown may come off. Call us if this happens. Bring the temporary crown with you so we can re-fit it again. It is very important to keep it in place, as it will prevent the neighbouring teeth from moving and compromise the fit of your final chosen restoration. Secondly you will avoid sensitivity. Alternatively place small amount if toothpaste into and fit the crown back.

If your bite feels uneven, please contact us on 074 93 22 647 or 086 6685 007.

When your permanent solution has been fitted by permanent cement, a daily brushing and flossing are a must for your new dental work. Daily plaque removal is critical for the long-term success of your teeth. We will support you by sending reminder messages or cards for a hygienist appointment.

If you engage in active sports activities, let us know so we could make a sport guard to protect your teeth from any unexpected accidents. If your teeth are showing any signs of grinding, you will be advised to use a night guard in order to protect all of your teeth including the new restoration.

Adjusting to the new look and feeling of your new smile will take time. If you have any problems, please contact us on the above numbers.

After tooth extraction

A woman smiling next to a flower

It is very important to allow the blood clot to form, stopping the bleeding and starting the healing process.

After extraction you will be asked to bite on cotton wool for 30-40 min, or longer if required. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, drink coffee, tea or alcohol, smoke or brush teeth next to the extraction area for 48-72 hours. Also, limit your active exercise as all this may dislodge or dissolve the clot and cause more bleeding and slow the healing process.

You may experience some discomfort and swelling in the first three days. Use the medication as directed. Wrap an ice pack or unopened bag of frozen vegetables in a moist kitchen towel and apply to the area. It will minimise the swelling.

Resume your dental routine after 48 hours. Rinse gently with salty water three times a day (a teaspoon of salt in a cup of luke warm water). Brush and floss your teeth as usual at least twice a day.

If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain or continued swelling call us as soon as possible on 074 93 22 647 or 086 6685 007.

After fitting of new dentures

It is normal to experience some discomfort with new dentures. You will need a few days to feel comfortable. If it does not disappear after a week, please contact us. In some cases, an adjustment is required. We say to patients: “New dentures is like a pair of new shoes”. It takes time to feel comfortable.

Remember, your call is always very welcome should you require further assistance on: 074 93 22 647, 086 6685 007.