What can I expect from my first visit?

Your initial consultation will consist of a full examination with X-rays. Should any treatment be necessary this may possibly be started immediately should you agree. Complex treatments will require careful evaluation, planning and further appointments.

Regular appointments with one of the Hygienists are always recommended to supplement your dental care.

What information should I bring with me on my first appointment?

• If you have been referred, your referral letter and any X-rays from your dentist
• A list of medications you are presently taking
• Any medical or dental insurance information as this will allow us to help you process any claims

Please inform the dentist if you have a medical condition which may be relevant to any treatment. For instance, diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves, joints, rheumatic fever, etc and any mediations.

Please note all patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to their consultations.

What is a dental emergency requiring urgent treatment?

• Facial swelling which is getting worse
• Severe pain which cannot be controlled by normal painkillers such as Ibuprofen or Paracetamol and keeps you awake at night
• Unexpected bleeding following tooth removal
• Traumatic injury to teeth, for example after a fall or assault which loosens or knocks out a tooth or teeth

What is NOT a dental emergency, but which should be treated at the next available time during normal hours?

• A chipped or broken filling
• A lost crown
• Bleeding gums

• Please call the surgery for advice. Outside normal working hours you will be directed to the on-call service.

Are you an anxious patient or even phobic about dentistry?

Ashley Dental Centre is used to treating patients who are apprehensive about having dental treatment. In the first instance it would be a good idea to book an appointment to meet and have a chat with the dentist. There are different ways of dealing with dental phobia but three of the solutions are:-

• A mild oral sedative to help with the treatment
• Intravenous sedation. This involves a small injection which will sedate the patient for the time required to carry out the treatment
• Hypnotherapy. Ashley Dental Centre works with two local hypnotherapists