Once you have decided that you would like to be a patient of the Surbiton Smile Centre ®, your next step would be to book a check-up, earlier rather than later and preferably before any problems arise. On your first visit to us, we will take a full health history. On subsequent visits, if your health status has changed, it would be important to inform us of any alterations to your medications or treatments that you might be undergoing.
Our Dentist will perform a thorough clinical examination of your teeth, gums and mouth, looking for any signs of disease or other problems. She will also take some X-rays, especially on your first visit.
Depending on your age, risks of disease and symptoms, it is very likely that our dentist will recommend taking an X-ray. X-rays can diagnose problems otherwise unnoticed, such as damage to jawbones, impacted teeth, abscesses, cysts or tumours, and also notification of decay between the teeth. The Surbiton Smile Centre ® uses X-ray machines that emit virtually no radiation, in other words, no more than you would receive from a day in the sun or a weekend watching TV.
As a precaution,if you are pregnant, you should inform us, as X-rays should only be taken in emergency situations for expectant women.
Our dentist may want to take a Panoramic X-ray. This type of X-ray provides a complete view of your mouth, in one single image, the upper and lower jaws, your Temporomandibular (TMJ) joints, all your teeth, the nasal area and sinuses. This helps us to understand your bite and the relationship between your different teeth. The Surbiton Smile Centre ® is equipped with this latest technology.
Remember our goal is to help you maintain your good oral health and prevent problems from becoming serious by identifying and treating them as soon as possible. Some of the following issues will be discussed with you if they are found to be relevant:
After a full dental examination, our dentist will provide you with a full treatment plan and estimate for any treatment you may require.
Please be rest assured that most dental visits are just of a check-up nature. Regular check-ups (ideally every six months) will help your teeth stay cleaner, last longer and can prevent painful problems from developing.
Please get in touch if you are concerned about any aspect of your dental health. We will treat you fairly and honestly - and we look forward to being able to help you.