Provided by EGO Dental Clinic,Victoria SW1
GENERAL DENTISTRY & PREVENTIVE CARE
How often should I have a dental check-up?
Most patients benefit from a dental check-up every 6–12 months. Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate interval based on your individual oral health needs.
What happens during a dental examination?
We assess your teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral health, including an oral cancer screening. If required, X-rays or digital scans may be taken.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Common signs include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, and gum recession. Early detection and treatment are essential.
Do I really need to see a hygienist if I brush daily?
Yes. Hygienists clean areas that are difficult to reach with brushing alone and help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
Is dental X-ray exposure safe?
Yes. We follow IR(ME)R 2017 regulations, and dental X-rays use very low levels of radiation. They are only taken when clinically justified.
Why do I need X-rays at my check-up?
X-rays help detect hidden issues such as tooth decay, infections, or bone loss that cannot be seen during a visual examination.
What’s the difference between plaque and tartar?
Plaque is a soft, sticky layer of bacteria that forms on teeth. Tartar is hardened plaque that can only be removed by a dental professional.
How can I prevent cavities?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, limit sugary foods and drinks, and attend regular dental check-ups.
Can diet affect my dental health?
Yes. Sugary and acidic foods and drinks increase the risk of tooth decay and enamel erosion.
What is fluoride and why is it important?
Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and protects against decay. It is commonly found in toothpaste and, in some areas, drinking water.
COSMETIC DENTISTRY
What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth and smile. Treatments may include teeth whitening, veneers, composite bonding, and other aesthetic procedures.
Am I suitable for teeth whitening?
Yes, if your teeth and gums are healthy. A dental assessment is required before whitening to ensure the treatment is safe and effective for you.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Yes. When carried out by a GDC-registered dentist, teeth whitening is safe. Whitening performed by non-dentists is illegal in the UK.
How long does teeth whitening last?
Results typically last between 12 and 18 months, depending on diet, oral hygiene, and lifestyle habits. Whitening top-ups may be recommended.
What’s the difference between composite bonding and veneers?
Composite bonding is minimally invasive and ideal for small cosmetic improvements. Veneers are more durable and suitable for more comprehensive smile transformations.
Can cosmetic dentistry fix crooked teeth?
Yes. Treatments such as Invisalign, veneers, or composite bonding can correct minor misalignment and improve the appearance of crooked teeth.
Is cosmetic dentistry painful?
Most cosmetic treatments are minimally invasive and involve little to no discomfort. Local anaesthetic is always used when necessary to ensure your comfort.
How much does cosmetic dentistry cost?
Costs vary depending on the type and complexity of treatment. We provide personalised treatment plans and clear pricing following your consultation.
What is a smile makeover?
A smile makeover is a customised treatment plan that combines two or more cosmetic procedures to enhance the appearance, balance, and harmony of your smile.
Will people know I’ve had cosmetic dental work?
Not unless you tell them. Our goal is to achieve natural, subtle results that complement your facial features and look entirely natural.
INVISALIGN & ORTHODONTICS
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move your teeth into alignment. Aligners should be worn for 20–22 hours a day for best results.
Is Invisalign suitable for adults?
Yes. Invisalign is a popular choice for adults who want a discreet and effective way to straighten their teeth.
What if I had braces before and my teeth have relapsed?
Invisalign can often correct minor relapses, provided your teeth and gums are healthy. A consultation is required to assess suitability.
How much does Invisalign cost?
Invisalign treatment starts from £995. The final cost depends on the complexity of your case. All packages include retainers, whitening, and digital scanning.
Do I need to be dentally fit before Invisalign?
Yes. You must be free from tooth decay and gum disease before starting Invisalign. This will be assessed during your consultation.
Will Invisalign affect my speech?
Some patients notice a slight change in speech initially, but most adapt within a few days as they get used to wearing the aligners.
What happens after Invisalign treatment?
After treatment, you will need to wear retainers to maintain your results. These may be fixed, removable, or a combination of both.
Can teenagers have Invisalign?
Yes. Invisalign Teen is designed specifically for younger patients and includes wear indicators to help monitor aligner use.
Is Invisalign better than braces?
This depends on the individual case. Invisalign is more discreet and comfortable for many patients, while more complex cases may require fixed braces.
Do Invisalign aligners hurt?
You may feel some pressure when switching to a new set of aligners. This is normal and indicates that the aligners are working. The sensation usually passes quickly.
DENTAL IMPLANTS & RESTORATIVE CARE
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a titanium screw that replaces a missing tooth root and supports a crown, bridge, or denture.
Am I suitable for dental implants?
Suitability depends on good gum health and sufficient bone levels. We assess this using clinical examination, scans, and X-rays.
Are dental implants permanent?
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last 15–20 years or longer.
How much do dental implants cost?
Dental implants start from £1,995. A full assessment is required to provide a personalised treatment plan and accurate quote.
Is dental implant surgery painful?
No. Implant surgery is carried out under local anaesthetic using gentle techniques. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable the procedure is.
Can I have implants if I’ve worn dentures for years?
Yes. However, bone levels will need to be assessed. In some cases, bone grafting may be required before implant placement.
How long does the dental implant process take?
The process typically takes 3–6 months, depending on healing time. In selected cases, same-day implant options may be available.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants have a success rate of over 95% when placed by experienced clinicians and maintained with good oral hygiene.
What’s the difference between an implant and a bridge?
Implants replace missing teeth without relying on neighbouring teeth. Bridges are attached to adjacent teeth and may require them to be reshaped.
How do I care for dental implants?
Care includes brushing and flossing daily and attending regular hygiene appointments. We will provide tailored guidance to help maintain your implants long-term.
EMERGENCY DENTISTRY
What’s considered a dental emergency?
Dental emergencies include severe pain, broken or knocked-out teeth, swelling, infection, bleeding, or trauma to the mouth or jaw.
Can you see me the same day?
Yes. We offer same-day emergency dental appointments in Central London whenever possible.
What should I do if I knock out a tooth?
Handle the tooth by the crown only, place it in milk if possible, and contact us immediately. Timing is crucial for successful replantation.
Is dental pain always an emergency?
Not always, but if pain is severe, persistent, keeps you awake, or affects eating, it should be assessed urgently.
What causes dental abscesses?
Dental abscesses are caused by bacterial infections, often due to untreated tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma. If left untreated, they can spread.
Will antibiotics fix a dental infection?
Antibiotics may temporarily reduce symptoms, but the underlying cause—such as an infected tooth—must be treated with procedures like root canal treatment or extraction.
What should I do for a broken filling or crown?
Book an urgent appointment as soon as possible. We will assess the damage and repair or replace the restoration as needed.
Can wisdom teeth cause pain?
Yes. Impacted or infected wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection and may require removal.
Do you treat children in dental emergencies?
Yes. We provide emergency dental care for patients of all ages, including children.
What if I’m anxious about dental visits?
We understand dental anxiety and offer gentle, reassuring care. Sedation options may also be available to help you feel more comfortable.
FACIAL AESTHETICS
Do dentists offer facial aesthetics?
Yes. GDC-registered dentists with appropriate training in facial anatomy are qualified to safely provide facial aesthetic treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers.
What is anti-wrinkle treatment?
Anti-wrinkle treatment commonly uses Botox to relax targeted facial muscles, helping to smooth fine lines and wrinkles. Results typically last around 3–4 months.
What areas can be treated with Botox?
Common treatment areas include the forehead, frown lines, crow’s feet, jawline (for clenching or teeth grinding), and neck bands.
What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable treatments used to restore volume and enhance areas such as the lips, cheeks, chin, and under-eye region.
Are facial aesthetic treatments safe?
Yes. When performed by a trained medical professional following proper clinical protocols, facial aesthetic treatments are considered safe.
Do fillers and Botox hurt?
Discomfort is usually minimal and short-lived. We use fine needles, and a numbing cream can be applied if needed to maximise comfort.
How long do dermal fillers last?
Dermal fillers typically last between 6 and 12 months, depending on the product used, the area treated, and individual factors.
What is anti-ageing dentistry?
Anti-ageing dentistry combines cosmetic and restorative dental treatments to improve facial structure, support the lips and jaw, and rejuvenate your smile.
Are aesthetic treatments offered at EGO Dental?
Yes. Facial aesthetic treatments are offered through our sister brand, EGO Cosmetics.
Can I combine dental and aesthetic treatments?
Absolutely. Many patients choose to combine smile makeovers with facial aesthetic treatments for a more balanced and holistic result.
