FAQ’s
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ’s) related to dental treatments at Crown Bank Dental Practice, Cheshire.
About Dental Practice
What are your opening times?
Sandbach Opening Hours
Monday: 9:00AM – 7:00PM
Tuesday-Thursday: 9:00AM – 5:00PM
Friday: 8:00AM – 4:00PM
Congleton Opening Hours
Monday: 9:00AM – 7:00PM
Tuesday-Thursday: 9:00AM – 5:00PM
Friday: 8:00AM – 4:00PM
Weekends: Off
Where can I park?
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Can I choose my preferred dentist?
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Can I cancel / reschedule my appointment?
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What payment options are available and when should I pay?
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What treatments do you offer?
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How can I schedule an appointment?
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Are you accepting new patients?
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What should I prepare ahead of my appointment?
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Emergency Dentistry
What should I do in a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is classified as swelling or pain not helped by pain killers, trauma to the mouth or teeth, or bleeding from the soft tissues (not gums). If you have any of these symptoms, call us immediately to book an appointment. If these symptoms occur outside of our opening hours, please call 111 or go to A&E for trauma or continuous swelling.
What should I do if I knock out a tooth?
If you knock out a tooth, follow these steps immediately:
- Handle Carefully: Pick up the tooth by the crown (top part), not the root.
- Rinse Gently: If dirty, gently rinse with milk or water without scrubbing.
- Reinsert if Possible: Try to place the tooth back into the socket. Hold it by biting down on a clean cloth or gauze.
- Keep Moist: If reinsertions aren’t possible, place the tooth in milk or a tooth preservation kit, or hold it in your cheek (be careful not to swallow it).
- See a Dentist Quickly: Contact us immediately. Quick action can increase the chances of saving the tooth.
Prompt care is crucial, ideally within 30 minutes.
How do I handle severe toothache?
- Pain Relief: Take over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or paracetamol (please note that these medications should only be taken following the advice on the box or from the GP).
- Avoid Triggers: Steer clear of very hot, cold, or sugary foods and beverages.
- Saltwater Rinse: Rinse with warm saltwater to reduce inflammation.
Contact us: Seek prompt dental care for proper diagnosis and treatment. Severe toothache can indicate an infection or other serious issue.
What should I do if I have an emergency out of hours?
In the event of an emergency after hours, call 111 and they’ll advise you further. If you have had a trauma to the face or continuous swelling, go to A&E immediately. Call us when we open to schedule an appointment for a diagnosis and treatment.
Dental Implants
Why should I choose your practice to have dental implants?
At Crown Bank Dental Practice, Cheshire, choosing us for dental implants ensures a blend of expertise and cutting-edge technology. Our seasoned dental team boasts years of collective experience, ensuring precision and excellence in dental implant procedures. With the advantage of a CT scanner, diagnostics and treatment planning reach unparalleled accuracy, enhancing the success of your implant journey. We prioritise your comfort, employing advanced techniques for optimal results. Entrust your dental implant needs to Crown Bank Dental Practice, where skill meets innovation to ensure a confident, lasting smile.
How much do dental implants cost?
Please visit our Fees page to learn about the dental implant(s) cost.
How soon can I have teeth after dental implant placement?
In certain cases, temporary teeth can be provided immediately after implant placement, allowing you to maintain functionality and aesthetics during the healing period. However, the timeline varies based on individual cases. The final restoration, such as crowns or bridges, is typically placed after the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone. This ensures a secure and enduring outcome. Your dentist will provide specific guidance based on your unique circumstances, optimising the timing for the placement of your final teeth to achieve the best results.
How soon can I start the process?
Begin your journey to dental implants promptly by scheduling a consultation with Crown Bank Dental Practice, Cheshire. Our team will outline a tailored plan, initiating the process towards a confident and functional smile.
Is dental implant treatment painful?
Our skilled team prioritises your comfort. While some discomfort is normal, modern techniques and anaesthetics minimise pain. Most patients find the procedure less painful than expected.
Patients can expect the following during and after the procedure:
- Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia ensures you feel no pain.
- Mild Discomfort: Mild soreness is common but manageable with pain relievers.
- Slight Swelling: Some swelling or bruising may occur, typically subsiding in a few days.
Most patients find the discomfort to be less than expected and recover quickly. Your dentist will provide aftercare instructions and support.
Teeth Straightening
How do I know if I need clear aligners?
Consider Invisalign or clear Angel Aligners if you have:
- Crooked Teeth: To straighten misaligned or crowded teeth.
- Gaps: To close spaces between teeth.
- Bite Issues: To correct overbites, underbites, or crossbites.
- Overall Smile: To enhance your smile’s appearance.
Consultation: Schedule a consultation at Crown Bank Dental Practice to determine if clear aligners are right for you.
How long does clear aligner treatment take?
Whether Invisalign or Angel Aligners, treatment typically lasts 6 to 18 months, depending on:
- Complexity of the Case: Simple cases may take as little as 6 months, while more complex issues can extend up to 18 months or longer.
- Treatment Goals: The specific goals you and your dentist set for your smile.
- Compliance: Wearing aligners for 20-22 hours daily as recommended.
Your dentist will provide a more accurate timeline based on your individual needs.
Can adults get braces?
Yes, adults can get braces. Modern orthodontic options like clear aligners and ceramic braces are discreet and effective for adults.
Benefits:
- Improved Smile: Enhances appearance and confidence.
- Better Oral Health: Corrects alignment for easier cleaning and healthier gums.
Consult your dentist or orthodontist at Crown Bank Dental Practice to explore the best treatment for your needs.
General Dentistry
How can I best protect my teeth?
Follow these dentist-approved tips to ensure better and long lasting oral health:
- Limit between-meal snacking and cut down on sweets.
- Brush at leat twice a day and floss daily.
- Avoid a hard toothbrush. Instead, use a soft or medium manual or electric brush and change the brush or head every 8-12 weeks.
- Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwashes to help remineralise and protect the tooth structure.
- Visit your dentist for regular dental check-ups and consider professional cleaning twice a year.
- Don’t ignore tooth or gum problems. The quicker these problems are checked out, the better and less costly they will be. Remember, a visit to the dentist isn’t expensive, but treating dental problems is!
How do I know if I have tooth decay?
Tooth decay also known as cavities or caries occur when teeth are exposed to sugary and/or starchy foods or drinks over a while. Bacteria found in plaque – a sticky film that constantly settles on the teeth – interacts with the sugars to produce acid. These acids will attack tooth enamel causing teeth to weaken and decay to form.
The symptoms of a cavity will depend upon how large it is and where it is in the mouth. While some people won’t develop any symptoms, others may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Intermittent pain or toothache.
- Heightened tooth sensitivity particularly when eating or drinking something hot or cold.
- Pain when you bite or chew.
- Discolouration of the tooth– although this can be a sign of tooth decay, it may also be a sign of tooth staining.
- If you have any of these symptoms, contact your dentist for assistance and professional advice.
Do I need to floss daily?
Yes. Flossing once a day helps remove plaque and food debris from between teeth and along the gumline—areas a toothbrush cannot fully reach. Skipping this step allows bacteria to build up, increasing the risk of gum irritation, bleeding, decay between teeth, and bad breath.
If traditional floss feels difficult, alternatives such as interdental brushes or water flossers can be effective. The key is using a method you can maintain consistently. A simple routine is to floss before brushing in the evening, allowing fluoride from your toothpaste to reach between the teeth more effectively.
Gum Disease & Dental Hygiene
How is gum disease treated by the hygienist?
Gum disease treatment by a hygienist typically involves:
- Scaling: Removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gum line.
- Polishing: Cleaning and smoothing the tooth surfaces to discourage plaque buildup.
- Education: Providing guidance on proper oral hygiene and care to maintain gum health.
- Follow-Up: Scheduling regular appointments to monitor and maintain gum health.
These steps aim to reduce inflammation, prevent further gum damage, and improve overall oral health. Most of the work is the maintenance done by the patient at home!
Can gum disease be prevented?
Yes, gum disease can often be prevented with good oral hygiene habits and regular dental care:
- Brushing: Brush your teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing: Clean between your teeth daily with dental floss or interdental brushes.
- Regular Dental Visits: Visit your dentist and hygienist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning.
- Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and drinks.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of gum disease – quitting can improve oral health.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing gum disease and maintain healthy gums and teeth.
What is the best way to brush my teeth?
Follow these steps for effective tooth brushing:
- Brushing Technique: Use a small-headed toothbrush with soft bristles.
- Timing: Brush for at least two minutes, twice daily – morning and night.
- Movement: Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle, circular motions.
- Cover All Surfaces: Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
- Tongue Cleaning: Gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.
- Replace Regularly: Replace your toothbrush or brush head every 3-4 months, or sooner if bristles fray.
By brushing properly and regularly, you can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain good oral health.
How often should I see the dental hygienist?
Normally, we recommend visiting the dental hygienist twice a year. In some circumstances, more frequent visits may be recommended by the dentist.
What days does the hygienist work?
Our hygienist works every day during regular opening hours of our practice.
How much does the hygienist charge?
Please visit our Fees page for pricing information.
Cosmetic Dentistry
What is involved in a smile makeover?
A smile makeover at Crown Bank Dental Practice includes:
- Consultation:
- Assessment: Your dentist evaluates your smile.
- Planning: 3D imaging to design your new smile.
- Preparation:
- Tooth Prep: Minimal preparation if needed.
- Impressions: Taken for bespoke restorations.
- Fabrication:
- Custom Restorations: Veneers or overlays are crafted.
- Temporary Restorations: Provided if required.
- Application:
- Placement: Restorations are bonded to your teeth.
- Adjustments: Ensure a perfect fit.
- Finalisation:
- Polishing: For a natural look.
- Final Check: Ensures comfort and functionality.
Benefits: Quick results, natural look, and minimally invasive.
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are thin shells custom-made to fit over the front of your teeth. They’re used to improve the appearance of your smile by covering imperfections like stains, chips, or gaps, and can enhance the shape and size of your teeth.
Orthodontics
What is a clear aligner treatment?
A clear aligner system, such as Invisalign or Angel Aligners, is used for teeth-straightening treatment. It comprises custom-made trays and offers a near-invisible alternative to traditional braces. The process begins with a consultation and digital impressions, leading to the creation of custom clear aligners. Worn for about two weeks each, these aligners gradually shift the teeth into the desired position. Regular check-ups with the treating dentist ensure proper progress, and the aligners can be removed for eating and oral care. Angel Aligners and Invisalign are favoured for their aesthetic appeal and convenience, provided patients adhere to the recommended wear time requirements.
Am I a suitable candidate for Invisalign or Angel Aligners?
The suitability for clear aligners is determined through a consultation with a dentist at Crown Bank Dental Practice. During this assessment, the dentist evaluates the individual’s dental condition, considering factors like teeth misalignment and bite issues. Digital impressions and 3D imaging technology are often used to create a detailed model of the teeth. Based on this information, a custom treatment plan is devised. This treatment is generally suitable for various cases, but its effectiveness depends on factors like patient compliance and the complexity of the orthodontic issues. The dentist will discuss the potential outcomes and address any specific concerns before recommending Invisalign or Angel Aligner treatment.
How long does the clear aligner treatment take?
The treatment duration of invisible braces varies, typically spanning 12 to 18 months. But it can also take longer for more complex cases. Your dentist at Crown Bank Dental Practice will be able to give you a more precise answer after examining your teeth and general oral health.
Is the clear aligner treatment painful?
Clear aligner treatment is generally less painful than traditional braces. Patients may experience initial discomfort or pressure when switching to a new set of aligners, indicating that the teeth are adjusting. This discomfort is temporary and indicates the aligners are actively working to shift the teeth. Unlike braces, clear aligners do not involve wires or brackets that can cause irritation. Individuals may take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed, but most find the discomfort manageable. Any persistent or severe pain should be discussed with the treating dentist. Overall, both Invisalign and Angel Aligners are considered more comfortable and less painful than other teeth-straightening treatment options.
Is the Invisalign or Angel Aligners treatment expensive?
The costs of invisible braces treatment vary based on factors such as case complexity and location. While generally more expensive than traditional braces, the benefits, including aesthetic appeal and comfort, often outweigh the cost. To determine the specific expense for your case, please consult with our team for a personalised estimate. Prioritising your dental health is an investment in a confident smile.
What happens when I am done with the clear aligner treatment?
Once your clear aligner treatment is complete, you transition to the retention phase. You’ll likely receive retainers to maintain your teeth in their new position. Regular check-ups with your dentist will ensure ongoing success. Retainers may be removable or fixed, and adherence to your dentist’s guidance will help preserve your beautifully aligned smile. Remember, the journey doesn’t end with treatment; retention is key to long-lasting results.
