Apicectomy

An apicectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the infected tip of a root and seals the root end when conventional root canal treatment alone is insufficient.

Common questions

Why is it done?

To remove infection from the end of the root.

Does it hurt?

It is normally carried out under local anaesthetic.

How much root is removed?

Only a small amount at the tip.

Will the tooth look different?

Usually no.

When to contact us

• Persistent infection at the root end despite prior root treatment

S3 Dental advice: Book a specialist review if a previously root-treated tooth keeps flaring up.

Book online

Avulsed Tooth

A completely knocked-out tooth can sometimes be saved if it is handled correctly and replanted or stored properly without delay.

Common questions

Can it be saved?

Sometimes, especially if action is taken quickly.

How should I hold it?

By the crown only, not the root.

How should I store it?

Preferably back in the socket if safe, otherwise in milk while travelling immediately to the dentist.

How urgent is it?

This is a same-day dental emergency.

When to contact us

• Tooth completely out of the mouth

• Bleeding from socket

• Trauma to lips or gums

S3 Dental advice: Call S3 Dental immediately after a dental trauma event.

Book online

 Bad Breath

Most persistent bad breath originates within the mouth and is commonly linked to plaque build-up, gum disease, debris retention and inadequate tongue or interdental cleaning.

Common questions

Where does it usually come from?

In most cases it comes from the mouth rather than the stomach.

Can gum disease cause it?

Yes, bad breath can be an early sign of gum disease.

Will mouthwash alone solve it?

Not usually; the underlying cause still needs to be addressed.

Can a dentist help?

Yes, by checking for gum disease, decay, plaque traps and ineffective cleaning.

When to contact us

• Persistent unpleasant breath

• Bad taste in the mouth

• Bleeding gums

• Food trapping

S3 Dental advice: Book a review if bad breath persists despite routine cleaning.

Book online

Children’s Teeth

Early dental visits help children normalise the dental environment and support prevention through supervised brushing, fluoride use and good diet habits.

Common questions

When should a child first attend?

As early as possible so dental visits become normal and preventive advice can start early.

How long should brushing be supervised?

Children generally need supervision until at least around age 7.

Should fluoride toothpaste be used?

Usually yes, using the correct amount and strength for the child’s age and risk.

How often should children attend?

Intervals vary by need, but regular preventive reviews are important.

When to contact us

• Parental concern about brushing, sugar intake or eruption patterns

S3 Dental advice: Book a child-friendly preventive visit if you want support with brushing or diet.

Book online

Cold Sores

Cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus and usually present as painful blisters around the lips that crust over as they heal.

Common questions

What causes them?

A herpes simplex virus infection.

What triggers flare-ups?

Illness, sunlight and other triggers may provoke recurrence.

Are they contagious?

Yes, especially while blisters are present.

Can I attend treatment?

Appointments may need to be adjusted depending on treatment type and lesion position.

When to contact us

• Tingling or burning on the lip

• Blisters around the lip margin

• Recurrent episodes

S3 Dental advice: Call before your appointment if you have an active cold sore.

Book online

Crowns

A crown covers and protects a weakened or heavily restored tooth, helping restore strength, shape and appearance.

Common questions

Why would I need one?

To protect a weakened tooth or improve shape and appearance.

What are they made from?

Materials vary and may include porcelain, ceramic, metal-based or other modern options.

How many visits?

Often at least two visits unless same-day systems are used.

Will it look natural?

In many cases, yes, particularly with appropriate material selection.

When to contact us

• Broken tooth

• Large old filling

• Discoloured tooth

• Post-root-canal tooth needing protection

S3 Dental advice: Arrange a consultation if a tooth is weak, cracked or heavily filled.

Book online

 Dental Emergencies

At S3 Dental, we understand that a dental emergency can be a stressful and painful experience.

We prioritse emergency patients to ensure you are out of pain and your smile is stabilised as quickly as possible.

How to Book an Emergency Appointment

If you are experiencing a dental emergency during our normal opening hours, please follow these steps:

1. Call us immediately: Contact our Hinchley Wood reception on 020 8398 6322

2. Call early: We recommend calling as soon as our practice opens at 9.00am.

3. Explain the issue: Let our team know if you have swelling, severe pain, or a knocked-out tooth so we can prioritize your care.

Out-of-Hours Care

If your emergency occurs when the practice is closed, please do not suffer in silence.

• Existing Patients: Please call the practice number and listen to the recorded message for instructions on how to access our out-of-hours emergency service.

• NHS 111: For urgent dental advice or to find an out-of-hours provider, you can also call 111, which is available 24/7.

• A&E: Please visit your nearest Accident & Emergency department only if you experience severe facial swelling that is affecting your breathing or eye, or if you have uncontrollable bleeding following an extraction.

Dental Erosion

Dental erosion is loss of enamel caused by acid attack. Frequent acidic drinks, reflux or recurrent vomiting can contribute to progressive wear and sensitivity.

Common questions

What causes it?

Repeated acid exposure softens enamel and can lead to irreversible wear.

Can brushing immediately after acid make it worse?

Yes, softened enamel is more vulnerable straight after acid exposure.

Is it the same as decay?

No, erosion is chemical wear rather than bacterial decay.

Can it be treated?

Yes, through prevention, monitoring and where needed restorative protection.

When to contact us

• Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet

• Teeth looking thinner, yellower or hollowed

• History of acidic diet or reflux

S3 Dental advice: Book a review if teeth feel increasingly sensitive or look worn.

Book online

Dental Extractions

Extraction aftercare is focused on protecting the blood clot, minimising bleeding and allowing the socket to heal predictably.

Common questions

What should I do after an extraction?

Rest, keep your head elevated and protect the area.

Should I rinse straight away?

No, avoid rinsing for the first 24 hours.

What should I avoid?

Alcohol, smoking, hot food while numb and chewing directly on the site.

When should I call?

If bleeding is persistent, pain is worsening or swelling becomes significant.

When to contact us

• Bleeding immediately after treatment

• Expected soreness

• Occasional swelling

S3 Dental advice: Contact us if bleeding does not settle or pain worsens after the first day.

Book online

Dental Implants in Surrey

At S3 Dental, we provide permanent, lifelike solutions for missing teeth using the latest technology in dental implants. Whether you are looking for a single tooth implant or a more complex restoration, our experienced team offers high-quality clinical care in a comfortable environment. For patients seeking dental implants in Esher and the surrounding areas, we provide a range of advanced options to restore both your function and your confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are dental implants? A dental implant is a small titanium post that acts as a replacement for a tooth root. Once placed, it integrates with the bone to provide a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture.

Can I replace just one missing tooth? Yes. A single tooth implant is the ideal solution for replacing one tooth without affecting the healthy neighboring teeth. It looks, feels, and functions just like a natural tooth.

What is a "Same Day Smile"? A Same Day Smile (often referred to as "Teeth in a Day") allows patients to have their implants placed and temporary, functional teeth fitted all in a single appointment. This is a life-changing option for those who do not want to wait months for their final smile.

What are my options for replacing all my teeth? If you are missing most or all of your teeth, we offer full mouth dental implants. Two popular methods include:

• All on 4 / All on Four: This technique uses just four strategically placed implants to support a full arch of fixed teeth.

• Implant Dentures: These are dentures that "clip" onto implants, providing far more stability and comfort than traditional removable dentures.

What if I have been told I don't have enough bone? Many patients who were previously told they couldn't have implants are still candidates thanks to advanced techniques. We can perform a bone graft or a sinus lift to increase the volume of bone in the jaw, ensuring a solid foundation for your implants.

How long do dental implants last? With proper oral hygiene and regular check-ups at our Surrey practice, dental implants are designed to be a long-term, often lifelong, solution.

Book consultation online

 Dental Veneers in Hinchley Wood

Veneers are one of the most transformative treatments in cosmetic dentistry. Whether you are looking to fix chipped, stained, or slightly misaligned teeth, they provide a red-carpet result. At S3 Dental, we combine clinical expertise with artistic design to create bespoke smiles for our patients in Hinchley Wood, Esher, and Thames Ditton.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What exactly is a veneer? A veneer is a wafer-thin, custom-made shell of tooth-coloured material—usually high-quality porcelain or composite resin—designed to cover the front surface of a tooth. Think of it like a professional "false nail" for your tooth, but much stronger and permanently bonded to provide a flawless finish.

2. How long do veneers last? With proper care, porcelain veneers typically last between 10 to 15 years. Composite veneers (also known as composite bonding) usually last 5 to 7 years. To ensure longevity, treat them like natural teeth with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups at our Hinchley Wood practice.

3. Does the process hurt? The procedure is generally painless. For porcelain veneers, a tiny amount of enamel (often less than 0.5mm) may be removed to make room for the veneer. We use local anaesthetic to ensure you are completely comfortable. For many composite bonding cases, no tooth preparation is required at all.

4. Can I see my new smile before I commit? Yes! This is where our TRIOS scanner becomes invaluable. We take a digital impression of your current smile to design your ideal look. We can often create a "trial smile," allowing you to see and even test-drive the shape and look of your new teeth before the final veneers are crafted.

5. Will they look natural? As your cosmetic dentist, our goal is to create a smile that complements your facial features. Modern porcelain mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural enamel. We customise the shade, translucency, and shape so they look like your own teeth—only better.

6. Do I need to change my diet? You can eat most foods, but we recommend using common sense to protect your investment:

• Avoid biting directly into very hard items like ice or hard candy.

• Never use your teeth as tools (e.g., opening packets), as this can cause the porcelain or composite to chip.

Why Visit S3 Dental Hinchley Wood?

Our practice is ideally located for patients seeking porcelain veneers or composite bonding across Surrey. We are just a one-minute walk from Hinchley Wood station, making us easily accessible for those in:

• Esher & Claygate

• Thames Ditton & Long Ditton

• Surbiton & Kingston

Book Online

Denture Cleaning

Dentures need deliberate daily cleaning to reduce staining, odour, inflammation and fungal infection and to help preserve oral tissues and remaining teeth.

Common questions

How often should dentures be cleaned?

Thoroughly at least twice daily and after meals when needed.

How should they be cleaned?

Brush, soak briefly if advised, then brush again.

Can I use normal toothpaste?

Many clinicians prefer soap or appropriate denture products rather than abrasive toothpastes.

Why clean the fitting surface?

Because plaque and debris collect there too.

When to contact us

• Dentures smelling, staining or causing sore tissues

S3 Dental advice: Book a denture review if your dentures are sore, loose or difficult to clean.

Book online

 Dry Socket

Dry socket is a painful healing complication after extraction when the blood clot disintegrates or is lost before the socket is protected by new tissue.

Common questions

What is it?

A painful but usually non-serious condition caused by loss of the blood clot from an extraction site.

Is it common?

It occurs in a minority of extractions.

Do antibiotics fix it?

Usually not; treatment is mainly local pain relief and socket care.

Can smoking or rinsing contribute?

Yes, both may disturb the clot and increase risk.

When to contact us

• Increasing pain 2 to 5 days after extraction

• Bad taste or smell from the area

• Pain radiating to ear or jaw

S3 Dental advice: Call S3 Dental urgently if post-extraction pain is worsening rather than settling.

Book online

Enamel Stripping

Enamel stripping involves carefully reducing tiny amounts of enamel width to create space in mild orthodontic crowding without removing healthy teeth entirely.

Common questions

When is it used?

Typically in mild crowding cases where small space gains are helpful.

Does it hurt?

It is usually painless.

How many teeth are treated?

This depends on the orthodontic plan.

Will I still need retainers?

Yes, retention is still important after alignment.

When to contact us

• Mild crowding in orthodontic planning

S3 Dental advice: Ask during your orthodontic consultation whether minimal enamel reduction is relevant.

Book online

 Facial Aesthetics at S3 Dental Hinchley Wood

At S3 Dental, we believe a beautiful smile is more than just healthy teeth—it’s about total confidence in your appearance. Our team combines the clinical precision of a cosmetic dentist with an expert understanding of facial anatomy to provide safe and subtle rejuvenation for our patients in Hinchley Wood, Esher, and throughout Surrey.

Whether you are looking to smooth fine lines or restore youthful volume, our goal is to help you look refreshed. Our aesthetic consultations are designed to complement our dental work—from porcelain veneers to composite bonding—ensuring a balanced and natural result.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are "Anti-Wrinkle Consultations"? These assessments are designed to address fine lines caused by facial expressions, such as crow’s feet or frown lines. During your appointment in Hinchley Wood, we assess your skin and muscle movement to determine if a prescribed treatment is the right step for achieving a smoother, refreshed look.

What are Dermal Fillers? Dermal fillers are injectable gels used to restore lost volume, soften deep folds, and contour features like the lips, cheeks, and jawline. They are a popular addition for patients undergoing a smile makeover, as they help frame your new smile perfectly.

Why should I see a dentist for facial aesthetics? Dentists are experts in facial anatomy. Whether we are placing dental implants or performing smile designs, we spend years studying the nerves and skeletal structure of the face. Our daily experience with precise injections means your treatment is safe and achieves a balanced look that complements your dental health.

Do the treatments hurt? Most patients describe the sensation as a quick sting. Because we are a dental practice, we can provide professional local anaesthetics (the same used in restorative dentistry) or high-strength numbing creams to ensure your experience is as comfortable as possible.

How long do the results last? This varies based on the individual and the specific area treated:

• Anti-wrinkle treatments: Generally last between 3 to 4 months.

• Dermal fillers: Can last anywhere from 6 to 18 months.

Are there any side effects? Side effects are typically mild and temporary, such as slight redness, minor swelling, or bruising. We provide comprehensive aftercare instructions during your consultation at our Surrey clinic to ensure you are fully supported.

Your Local Aesthetic Clinic

Located just a one-minute walk from Hinchley Wood station, S3 Dental is ideally positioned for patients in Esher, Thames Ditton, and Surbiton. We provide a regulated, clinical environment that ensures your safety and privacy at every step.

For more information call 020 8398 6322

Fear of the Dentist

Dental anxiety is common, and modern practices can reduce fear through communication, pacing, control signals and gentle stepwise care.

Common questions

Is dental treatment still painful?

Modern techniques and local anaesthetic mean most routine dentistry can be carried out very comfortably.

What if I have not attended for years?

You can still start with a consultation and a calm plan.

Can I tell the team I’m nervous?

Yes, and you should — it helps the team tailor the visit.

Can appointments be paced?

Often yes, with breaks and staged treatment when appropriate.

When to contact us

• Avoidance of care

• Panic about pain or loss of control

• Past traumatic experiences

S3 Dental advice: Book a low-pressure consultation if anxiety has stopped you attending.

Book online

Flossing

Floss or tape can clean between tighter contacts where interdental brushes are not ideal, helping remove plaque and food from beneath the gum line.

Common questions

Why floss?

Because a toothbrush cannot reach between tight teeth.

Will it make gums bleed?

Inflamed gums may bleed initially; with proper technique this often improves.

Is technique important?

Yes, poor technique can be ineffective or uncomfortable.

Should I floss before or after brushing?

Consistency matters most; your clinician can advise your routine.

When to contact us

• Tight contact points between teeth

• Early gum inflammation

S3 Dental advice: Book a hygiene visit if you want a personalised interdental routine.

Book online

 Fluoride

Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and makes teeth more resistant to decay. It may come from toothpaste, water and other prescribed sources.

Common questions

What does fluoride do?

It strengthens enamel and lowers the risk of decay.

Is toothpaste enough?

Often yes, though some higher-risk patients may need additional fluoride support.

Is all toothpaste the same?

No, fluoride concentration varies by age and clinical need.

Should children use low-strength toothpaste?

This depends on age and risk level; tailored advice is best.

When to contact us

• High decay risk or questions about children’s toothpaste

S3 Dental advice: Ask the team which fluoride products are best for you or your child.

Book online

Gum Disease

Gum disease is inflammation or infection of the tissues that support the teeth. It starts with plaque and can progress from gingivitis to periodontitis if left untreated.

Common questions

What causes it?

Plaque bacteria around the gum line irritate the tissues and trigger inflammation.

Is bleeding normal?

No. Bleeding while brushing is a warning sign that needs assessment.

Can it be reversed?

Early gingivitis can often be reversed with professional guidance and improved home care.

Can I lose teeth?

Yes, untreated periodontitis can destroy supporting bone and lead to tooth loss.

When to contact us

• Bleeding gums

• Swollen or tender gums

• Bad breath

• Loose teeth in advanced cases

S3 Dental advice: Arrange a hygiene or periodontal assessment if your gums bleed or feel sore.

Book online

Dental Hygiene & Airflow in Hinchley Wood

At S3 Dental, we believe that a healthy smile starts with a strong foundation. Our professional hygiene services go beyond a standard "scale and polish." By utilising the latest technology, such as Airflow, our hygienists provide a superior level of care for our patients in Hinchley Wood, Esher, and the wider Surrey area.

Whether you are maintaining your dental routine or caring for advanced restorative dentistry like dental implants, our hygiene team is dedicated to keeping your smile bright, fresh, and disease-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Airflow Hygiene? Airflow is a revolutionary cleaning system that uses a controlled stream of air, warm water, and fine powder to deeply clean your teeth and gums. It is significantly more effective at removing stubborn stains from coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco than traditional methods, leaving your teeth feeling incredibly smooth and looking noticeably brighter.

Does Airflow hurt? Not at all. One of the biggest benefits of Airflow at our Hinchley Wood practice is that it is a "no-contact" technology. There is no scraping or vibrating sensation, making it the perfect choice for patients with sensitive teeth or those who experience dental anxiety.

Why is hygiene important for dental implants? If you have invested in dental implants, professional hygiene is essential for their longevity. Airflow is the gold standard for implant maintenance because it cleans around the delicate implant components safely and thoroughly without scratching the titanium, helping to prevent peri-implantitis (gum disease around implants).

How often should I visit the hygienist? For most patients, we recommend a visit every 6 months. However, if you are undergoing a smile makeover or have a history of gum disease, we may suggest more frequent visits to keep your porcelain veneers or composite bonding looking their best.

Can hygiene help with bad breath? Absolutely. Persistent bad breath is often caused by bacteria trapped in hard-to-reach areas. Our deep-cleaning treatments remove these bacterial deposits, helping you achieve lasting fresh breath and improved oral health.

Book Online

Implant Cleaning

Dental implants require the same level of daily attention as natural teeth, often with careful brushing plus interdental cleaning around implant surfaces and components.

Common questions

How often should I clean an implant?

Twice daily, just like natural teeth.

Do I need special tools?

Often standard brushes plus interdental aids are used, adjusted to the implant design.

Why is maintenance important?

Because plaque can still inflame tissues around implants.

Do removable implant dentures need extra care?

Yes, bars, studs and fitting surfaces need deliberate cleaning.

When to contact us

• Questions after implant placement or implant maintenance review

S3 Dental advice: Book an implant maintenance review if you are unsure how to clean around an implant.

Book online

Interdental Brushing

Interdental brushes clean areas a toothbrush cannot reach and help reduce plaque, food trapping, bad breath and gum inflammation between teeth.

Common questions

Why is brushing alone not enough?

Toothbrush bristles do not fully clean many spaces between teeth.

Do I need one size?

Often more than one size is needed in different areas.

Is it instead of brushing?

No, it is an addition to brushing.

Can it help bad breath?

Yes, by reducing trapped plaque and debris.

When to contact us

• Bleeding between teeth

• Food trapping

• Bad breath

• Open spaces between teeth

S3 Dental advice: Ask the team to size your interdental brushes correctly.

Book online

Invisalign & Teeth Straightening 

At S3 Dental Hinchley Wood, we provide discreet teeth straightening. Our custom clear aligners offer a modern, near-invisible solution for patients seeking Invisalign in Weybridge and the local area.

Frequently Asked Questions -

What is Invisalign and how does it work?

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic system that uses a series of custom-made clear aligners. Unlike traditional braces, these aligners are virtually invisible and removable. If you are looking for teeth straightening in Esher, Invisalign offers a discreet way to align your teeth without the need for metal wires or brackets.

Why choose S3 Dental as your Invisalign dentist in Surrey?

Our clinical team at S3 Dental are highly experienced in digital smile design. As a leading Invisalign dentist in Surrey, we use advanced Trios intraoral scanners to create a 3D digital map of your teeth. This means no messy impressions and a highly accurate treatment plan tailored to your specific goals.

Am I a candidate for clear aligners?

Most adults and teenagers are suitable for clear aligners. Whether you have minor crowding, gaps, or more complex bite issues, Invisalign can often provide the solution. During your initial consultation, we will assess your oral health to ensure you are a perfect candidate for this treatment.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

The duration of your Invisalign journey depends on the complexity of your case. On average, treatment can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months. However, many patients begin to see noticeable results in just a few weeks. Consistency is key—you should wear your aligners for 20–22 hours a day for the best results.

Do I have to travel far for treatment if I live in Weybridge or Esher?

Not at all. S3 Dental Hinchley Wood is perfectly located for those seeking Invisalign. Our practice is just a short drive or a quick train journey away, making it easy to attend your regular progress check-ups while benefiting from our state-of-the-art Surrey clinic.

Is teeth straightening at S3 Dental affordable?

We believe everyone deserves a confident smile. We offer flexible payment options to help spread the cost of your Invisalign treatment. During your consultation, we will provide a full breakdown of costs and discuss our finance plans to make your dream smile a reality.

Jaw Problems and Headaches

Bite and jaw joint problems can contribute to jaw pain, clicking, clenching, headaches and muscle tension in the face, head and neck.

Common questions

What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint connects the lower jaw to the skull.

Can my bite affect headaches?

In some patients, yes, alongside muscle tension or clenching.

What are common signs?

Clicking, jaw pain, headaches, muscle fatigue and tooth wear.

Is stress involved?

Often clenching habits and stress contribute.

When to contact us

• Jaw clicking

• Headaches especially in the morning

• Grinding or clenching

• Pain opening or chewing

S3 Dental advice: Book an assessment if jaw pain, tooth grinding or headaches keep recurring.

Book online

Missing Upper Lateral Incisors

Congenitally missing upper lateral incisors can be managed with orthodontic space closure or space opening with later restorative replacement, depending on the bite and smile design.

Common questions

Is it common?

It is a recognised developmental issue.

What are the treatment options?

Often either orthodontic space closure or holding/opening space for restorative replacement.

Who plans this?

Usually a combination of orthodontic and restorative input.

Does crowding change the plan?

Yes, overall bite and spacing strongly affect the decision.

When to contact us

• Missing upper lateral incisors or developmental spacing

S3 Dental advice: Book a consultation if you or your child have missing front teeth and want a long-term plan.

Book online

Mouthguards

Custom-made mouthguards protect teeth, gums and supporting structures during contact sports more effectively than generic shop-bought options.

Common questions

Who needs one?

Anyone playing contact or projectile sports should consider one.

Why custom-made?

Because fit and protection are significantly better.

Can it protect more than teeth?

It can also help reduce injury to surrounding structures.

Are home kits equal?

No, fit and protection are usually inferior.

When to contact us

• Sports participation

• History of dental trauma

S3 Dental advice: Book for a custom mouthguard before sports season starts.

Book online

Oral Cancer Screening

Regular dental examinations include soft tissue checks that can help identify suspicious changes early. Early detection improves the chance of successful treatment.

Common questions

Why does screening matter?

Because the mouth is easy to examine and early changes may be noticed at routine check-ups.

What should patients look out for?

Persistent ulcers, red or white patches, lumps, swelling or unexplained pain.

Who is at higher risk?

Risk rises with certain lifestyle and medical factors; dentists will discuss individual concerns.

Should patients wait and see?

Persistent changes should be assessed promptly.

When to contact us

• Ulcers lasting more than 2 weeks

• Red or white patches

• Lumps, swellings or unexplained changes

S3 Dental advice: Book an examination if you notice a sore, patch or lump that persists.

Book online

Oral Care Products

Choosing the right toothbrush, toothpaste and interdental products can significantly improve plaque control and comfort.

Common questions

Which toothbrush is best?

Usually a small- to medium-headed soft to medium bristle brush works well.

Are electric brushes useful?

Yes, especially for many adults and for patients who struggle with manual cleaning.

Do children need different products?

Yes, products should be age-appropriate.

Is toothpaste choice important?

Yes, particularly fluoride level and sensitivity or gum-care needs.

When to contact us

• Confusion about what products to buy

S3 Dental advice: Ask our clinicians to build you a simple home-care product list.

Book online

Periapical Abscess

A periapical abscess is an infection around the root end of a tooth, commonly associated with death of the pulp and requiring prompt dental assessment.

Common questions

What is it?

An infection around the apex of a tooth root.

What causes it?

Usually infection after the pulp dies.

How is it treated?

Often with root canal treatment or sometimes extraction depending on the tooth.

Can it come back?

Recurrence is possible if infection persists.

When to contact us

• Swelling or tenderness near a tooth

• Tooth pain

• History of deep decay or trauma

S3 Dental advice: Contact the practice urgently if you think you have a dental abscess.

Book online

 Pit and Fissure Sealants

Sealants are protective coatings placed on the grooves of back teeth to reduce the risk of decay, especially in children and teenagers.

Common questions

What are they?

A protective plastic coating placed on the biting surfaces of back teeth.

Does it hurt?

No, the process is usually painless.

Who benefits?

Children with newly erupted molars and deeper fissures often benefit.

How long do they last?

They can last years but should be reviewed regularly.

When to contact us

• Deep fissures on molars

• High decay risk in children

S3 Dental advice: Ask whether your child’s back teeth would benefit from sealants.

Book online

 Post Crowns

Post crowns may be used on root-treated teeth where extra internal support is needed because much of the natural crown is missing.

Common questions

What is the post for?

It helps retain the core and crown when little coronal tooth structure remains.

Is it always needed after root canal?

No, only when the remaining tooth needs extra support.

Are there alternatives?

Sometimes a core build-up alone is enough, depending on the tooth.

Why protect root-treated teeth?

Because they may be more brittle and structurally compromised.

When to contact us

• Root-filled tooth with significant loss of structure

S3 Dental advice: Book a restorative review if you have a root-filled tooth breaking down.

Book online

Pregnancy Dental Care

Pregnancy can change gum response and dietary patterns, so preventive dental care and professional advice remain important throughout pregnancy.

Common questions

Is routine dental care safe in pregnancy?

Routine assessment and preventive care are generally safe and important.

Can pregnancy damage teeth?

Pregnancy itself does not remove calcium from teeth, but diet and vomiting can affect oral health.

Do gums change?

Hormonal changes can make gums more reactive and prone to bleeding.

Should check-ups continue?

Yes.

When to contact us

• Bleeding gums during pregnancy

• Questions about safety of treatment

• Morning sickness affecting teeth

S3 Dental advice: Tell us if you are pregnant so we can tailor advice and timing appropriately.

Book online

Power Brushing

Electric toothbrushes can improve plaque removal and are especially useful for patients who struggle with manual brushing technique or dexterity.

Common questions

Are electric brushes better?

Many studies show good electric brushes can outperform manual brushing for plaque removal.

Are they suitable for children?

They can be, with the right brush head and supervision.

Who benefits most?

Patients with limited movement, inconsistent technique or periodontal needs often benefit.

Do I still need interdental cleaning?

Yes.

When to contact us

• Poor plaque control

• Dexterity difficulties

• Interest in upgrading home care

S3 Dental advice: Ask us which electric brush style best suits your needs.

Book online

Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is used when the pulp of a tooth becomes infected through decay or injury. The treatment removes infection, disinfects the canals and seals the tooth to reduce the risk of reinfection.

Common questions

What is it?

A procedure to remove infected pulp tissue, clean the root canal system and seal the tooth.

Does it hurt?

Modern treatment is normally carried out with local anaesthetic and should feel similar to having a filling.

How many visits?

Often two or more visits depending on the anatomy of the tooth and severity of infection.

What happens if I leave it?

The infection can spread and the tooth may ultimately need extraction.

When to contact us

• Pain on biting

• Sensitivity to hot or cold

• Swelling or gum tenderness

• History of deep decay, trauma or abscess

S3 Dental advice: Book an assessment if you have persistent toothache, swelling or sensitivity.

Book online

Teeth Whitening

Professional whitening lightens the existing tooth colour without drilling the teeth. Suitability depends on oral health, existing restorations and the cause of staining.

Common questions

How does it work?

Whitening gel lightens the existing shade of the teeth.

Does it damage enamel?

When provided appropriately under professional supervision, whitening is a conservative cosmetic treatment.

How long does it take?

Times vary by system, though some in-surgery options take around an hour and home systems work over a longer period.

Will crowns or fillings whiten too?

No, restorations generally do not change colour like natural teeth.

When to contact us

• Cosmetic concern about staining or tooth shade

S3 Dental advice: Book a consultation to see which whitening system suits your smile goals.

Book online

Veneers for Diastema

Veneers can help close gaps between front teeth in selected cases, though orthodontic or other options may also be appropriate depending on the cause of spacing.

Common questions

What is a diastema?

A gap between teeth, often between the front teeth.

Do all gaps need veneers?

No, treatment depends on the cause, size of gap and smile goals.

What else might help?

Orthodontics, composite bonding or other treatments may be options.

Why assess the cause first?

Because bone shape, soft tissues, habits and bite all matter.

When to contact us

• Gap between front teeth

• Cosmetic concern about smile spacing

S3 Dental advice: Book a smile consultation to compare bonding, veneers and orthodontic options.

Book online