Common Questions
Here are some common questions answered by our expert team. If there is any question we didn’t cover please get in touch. We are always happy to assist.
1.) How do I know if I have gum disease?
You might not! Even in advanced cases, it may be silent. It is one of the fastest growing dental problems in the world and is also one of the most difficult to diagnose. We will provide a comprehensive assessment to determine the extent, diagnosis and long term prognosis of your teeth.
Innovative and Painless Gum Disease Test
We are now one of the first clinics in Ireland to offer a gum disease test where you can get the results in 10 minutes.
In the chair our painless, rapid salivary test can quickly reveal if you have an active periodontal infection. We can get the results in 10 minutes and we can start treatment if necessary, during the same visit. At the follow-up visits, we can also use this test confirm if the treatment has been successful.
To book an appointment please email us or tel: (01) 678 9904
2.) Do I need a specialist?
Your mouth is an amazing place. If you want the best possible results carried out by someone with more than 15 years of training in Ireland and internationally then you should consider Mint Clinic. As the name suggests your oral health is our passion, and we do not compromise on standards. We expect the best outcome for our patients.
By choosing Mint Clinic, you can rest comfortably in the knowledge that you are placing your trust in someone who has dedicated his life to treating and studying this challenging environment.
3.) Do I need a letter of referral?
We prefer patients to be referred by their general dentist however we are happy to see you without a referral. It would be extremely helpful if you had any previous x-rays or reports to bring them with you beforehand.
As we provide only a selective area of treatment, you will need to see your general dentist for any additional treatment needed eg. fillings or routine extractions. At all times we will ask you and your dentist for permission to carry out any particular treatment.
4.) What can I expect on my first visit?
Nobody likes waiting. Ever!!! Yet it’s amazing how much waiting is self-inflicted. You should come to the dentist fully prepared to get yourself through as quickly as possible and get the greatest benefit from your visit. All that’s required is a little forethought.
Before you even leave home, make sure you have all your documents:
- Full list of medications – don’t rely on memory while you’re with the periodontist
- If you like someone to accompany you, that’s no problem
What we will do:
- Look inside your mouth,places where there might be a problem that you can’t see or feel.
- Look at your jaw, face and neck.
- Take a look at your teeth and gums to see whether they are healthy or whether there are signs of decay, damage or gum disease.
- Decide whether we need more information from x-rays or models.
- Tell you about any treatment you may need,options and costs.
Benefits
- Regular examinations mean that we can spot problems and correct them early before the treatment becomes complicated.
- A thorough examination allows us to predict future issues and together we can decide what will be best for you.
During the consultation
- Pay close attention. Write things down if necessary.
- Don’t be shy to ask for clarification or an explanation.
5.) What if I am nervous?
Every member of our team has been highly trained over a number of years to deal with the most nervous of patients.
We provide the latest techniques in painless anesthesia and offer a full range of sedation facilities, including IV sedation. Patients can rest assured there are also fully qualified Doctors on site at all times.
Dental techniques have improved so much over the last few years that modern dental treatment can now be completely painless. If you have not been to see a dentist for some time, you will probably find that things have improved a lot since your last visit. The general attitude is likely to be more relaxed, with the latest in dental techniques, facilities and safety procedures.
It may be helpful for you to see the practice before you arrange an appointment. Call in to speak to the receptionist, and see what the atmosphere is like. Do the other people there look cheerful and happy? Does it give you a feeling of confidence?
We also provide sedation of those patients that are suitable.
6.) What is sedation?
Sedation is a commonly used procedure which involves the use of medication to relax the patient whilst undergoing dental treatment. There are several types of sedation which include oral & IV sedation.
Also sedation does not mean that the patient is asleep. What it does mean however, is that the person is drowsy and relaxed but is still aware of their surroundings. Therefore it is useful for people who are afraid of the dentist and are unlikely to cooperate or undergo treatment whilst they have this fear. Sedation will help them to relax and ensure that treatment progresses smoothly and efficiently.
If a person is not suitable for sedation then the other option is a general anesthetic. Therefore this means that the person is unconscious throughout the procedure and the effects will take several hours to wear off. Find more information about sedation here.
7.) Oral sedation
This form of sedation takes the form of a tablet or capsule which is taken by mouth. You are required to take this medication a few hours before your treatment so do not drive or drink alcohol during this time. Follow the instructions given by the dentist and ask someone to drive you home afterwards. You will find that you are very sleepy and remain in this state for several hours afterwards. Do not return to work until the following day. For more information click here.
8.) IV sedation
We wish to do everything to make your visit for treatment under intravenous sedation to be as comfortable and as pleasant as possible. As special facilities and staff will be arranged for you, specific instructions will be given before and after.
You will find that you are very sleepy and remain in this state for several hours afterwards. For more information click here.
9.) Surgery – what happens before and after surgery?
Your countdown to having surgery
- Avoid medication like Aspirin, Brufen and Voltarol.
- High doses of vitamin C (500-1000mg per day) helps to improve recovery
- It is also important to organize your schedule around your surgery eg. days off afterwards may be necessary.
- Also if you are a smoker, stop. Cigarettes are the main cause of reduced healing after surgery.
The day of your surgery
We recommend taking painkillers that you find effective for you, one hour beforehand. Do not change any prescribed medication unless instructed to do so.
What to do after surgery
- Rest, no exercise for 2-3 days.
- Any bleeding – use damp gauze provided and maintain firm pressure for 15 mins, repeat if neccessary.
- Compresssion – with a cold pack for the first 24 hrs, then heat and arnica gel externally to aid recovery.
- Use painkillers and antibiotics as instructed.
- Leave the area alone and use mouth wash only, nothing else.
- After a few days, carefully brush the teeth while avoiding the gums in the area of surgery. You can continue to gently floss in 2-3 weeks. And regularly brush after 3 weeks.
- Some sensitivity is expected , use specially formulated sensitive toothpaste, such as Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive.
- If there is a periodontal pack your mouth, do not remove it. The pack should remain in place for one week. If the pack comes off before this time, it is not an emergency, but we should be notified.
If you have any questions, please call us (01) 678 9904.
We offer a free out-of-town/extensive treatment package for those travelling from a distance*
Patients can also avail of:
- Comfortable overnight accommodation
- WI-FI access
- Parking
- Full Irish Breakfast
* Furthermore this facility is next to our clinic and ideal for those patients who are travelling from a distance.
Have more common questions?
Find your answers on our blog.
