FAQ

Handle the tooth by the crown only, never the root. Rinse briefly in milk or saline if dirty. If possible, place the tooth gently back in its socket. If not, store it in milk, saline, or saliva (cheek pouch) on the way to the practice. The first 20 to 30 minutes after the tooth comes out are important for the best chance of re-implantation, though outcomes still vary.

We aim to accommodate urgent dental issues during practice hours and prioritise same-day care where possible. Out-of-hours availability varies. When the practice is closed, we provide guidance on where to seek urgent care, including hospital emergency departments for serious cases.

Severe pain that is interfering with eating or sleeping, knocked-out teeth, significant trauma, facial swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, and signs of infection all warrant urgent assessment. If you are unsure whether your situation is an emergency, call the practice for guidance. Severe swelling, difficulty breathing, or head and neck trauma should go to a hospital emergency department.

Preparation depends on the type of sedation. Nitrous oxide requires minimal preparation. Oral sedation requires you to take the medication at a specific time and arrange a driver. IV sedation and general anaesthesia require fasting, loose comfortable clothing, no jewellery, and arranged transportation. Detailed instructions are provided based on your treatment plan.

Some sedation options can be appropriate for children, depending on their age, the treatment needed, and their individual situation. Suitability requires careful assessment and is not a default option for paediatric dental care. We discuss this at consultation when relevant.

It depends on the type of sedation. With nitrous oxide, you stay fully aware and will remember the appointment. With oral sedation, you remain awake but memory may be reduced. With IV sedation, memory is often significantly reduced. With general anaesthesia, you are unconscious and will not have memory of the procedure itself. Individual responses vary.

Most TMJ cases are managed with conservative treatment such as splints, bite adjustments, exercises, and lifestyle changes. Surgery is uncommon and is only considered after conservative options have been thoroughly explored, usually under the care of an oral and maxillofacial surgeon rather than at a general dental practice.

Diagnosis involves a detailed symptom history, examination of jaw movement and the surrounding muscles, a bite assessment, and dental imaging. Additional imaging such as MRI or 3D imaging may be recommended where the case warrants a more detailed view of the joint.

The cause varies between patients and is often a combination of factors rather than a single one. Common contributors include teeth grinding or clenching, bite misalignment, jaw joint wear or arthritis, injury, and muscle tension. The comprehensive assessment is designed to identify which factors are at play in your case.

For patients who find needles particularly difficult, we use topical anaesthetic to reduce the sensation, take time over the technique, and can incorporate sedation where appropriate. We discuss this openly at consultation so the approach is agreed before treatment begins.

The right option depends on the treatment involved, your medical history, and what level of awareness you would prefer during the appointment. We walk through the options at consultation, discuss the risks and recovery for each, and recommend the approach that suits your case. Some options need a separate planning visit.

You are far from the only one. Many of our patients come back after long gaps, often longer than they want to admit. We start with a conversation rather than treatment, and we go at the pace you set. No one is going to judge you for what has happened (or not happened) before.