frequently asked questions
We've put together a list of common questions we get asked at the practice. If the answer to your question isn't here then please use our enquiry form.
| Can I get a discount of my normal fees? |
| There are several ways to save money at our practice. Firstly, all new patients or previous patients who have not been in for over a year may download a 15 percent discount voucher from our website, www.absolutedental.ie Secondly, if paying for any treatment in full prior to your appointment, this attracts a five percent discount. Thirdly, all 'Facebook' users who 'like' our page (www.facebook.com/absoluedentalcare) may avail of a one-time discount of 10 percent for any treatment. Lastly, the most impressive discount is for 20 percent fee reduction off our private fees if you join our 'Absolute dental plan'. |
| Do I need to have my wisdom teeth removed? |
| Your wisdom teeth need only be removed if they are causing continual bouts of infection or if the are so badly decayed that they cannot be saved or are so difficult to clean that they are causing decay to the tooth in front. Generally, now, we avoid removing wisdom teeth if none of the above factors exist. |
| Do you offer a hygienist service? |
| A full hygienist service is run at the practice to help maintain the health of the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth. Often a scale and polish twice a year is sufficient. For more advanced gum disease (periodontal disease) a course of deep cleaning may be recommended (root debridement and curettage). |
| Do you see children at the Practice? |
| We welcome children of any age. We would recommend that children come from at least three years of age to get them used to dentists. We have special 'Childrens Fun Days' usually twice a year to coincide with Halloween and Easter. Childrens examinations are usually free on these days |
| Do you see patients who hold a Medical Card? |
| We do see patients who hold a valid Medical Card. The HSE have restricted use of a Medical Card to only cover 'emergency' situations. So only two fillings per year are permitted, extractions and prescriptions. An annual examination is also permitted. |
| Do you treat nervous patients? |
| At Absolute Dental Care, we do our upmost to make your appointment as stress-free and as relaxed as possible. If you are nervous, discuss this with the dentist so that he can reassure you of what steps can be taken to put you at your ease. |
| How can I change my appointment? |
| You can change your appointment by phoning the Practice on 059 9131958, or by e-mailing the practice at info@absolutedental.ie |
| How do I make an enquiry about my dental condition? |
| If you have any concerns or queries regarding your oral health or condition, you may e-mail, write or phone the practice. Our staff will be able to answer your questions, without you necessarily having to attend for an examination. You may have simple or complex questions that need answering. Our advice is free, so there is no need to hesitate in contacting us. Of course, there may be some questions we cannot answer without seeing you and so an examination would then be necessary. |
| How much will my treatment cost and can I get treatment under the PRSI scheme? |
| Details of our prices are on view in our practice. We offer a transparent pricing scheme and always give a printed estimate for any treatment required. Our prices are competitive and represent excellent value for money. You will see this if you compare our fees with other practices or their websites. We do operate the PRSI scheme. However, this only allows you one free dental examination a year. Please inform us of your PRSI number prior to your first appointment so we can check with Social Welfare that you qualify for examinations under the PRSI scheme. |
| How often do I need to see the dentist or hygienist? |
| Usually it is wise to see the dentist at least once a year. However, you may be asked to come in twice a year if your oral condition warrants it. This also applies to appointments with the hygienist, although some patients may be recommended more frequent appointments. |
| Some of my teeth are uneven at the front. Can I get then filed down? |
| Treating teeth that are uneven is dictated by several things. For example, how worn are the teeth generally already? Have the teeth been root filled? Etc, etc When teeth are uneven, a choice has to be made between filing them down or building them up. A tooth could be filed down if required but there is a possibility of damaging the nerve in the tooth, so only a minimal amount should be considered to remove. Sometimes after filing a tooth down, the nerve can retract, and this gives the dentist scope to file the tooth a little more, but this can usually only be done several months after the initial filing. Often uneven teeth are due to the teeth having been eroded away (e.g. by acids in the diet) or worn down some other way. In these cases it is best to 'build up' the teeth with suitable restorative materials. This not only replaces the worn away tooth but usually results in a much better appearance also. |
| What do I do if I have a dental emergency? |
| Contact the Practice as soon as possible so that we can see you swiftly. We normally hold 'emergency slots' within each working day for this purpose. The earlier you contact the practice, the easier it will be to see you at a time that suits you best. If you have an emergency prior to 9pm during the weekdays or between 9am and 5pm on the weekend, you may phone the practice to obtain our emergency on-call number or you may leave a message for us. |
| What happens if I miss an appointment? |
| If you realise that you have missed an appointment contact the practice so that the appointment can be rearranged. If you are aware that you will not be able to keep an appointment please let us know so that your appointment can be given to someone who would like to be seen soon. If you persistently miss your appointments a fee of €40 is charged to your account. |
