Gum disease is the most significant cause of tooth loss in adults. 80% of Irish people suffer from some form of gum disease.
Athlone Dental is a dental hygiene led practice and advocates preventative dentistry where oral healthcare measures such as regular cleaning and check ups can curtail significant dental issues. We are primarily focused on gum health – working with patients to take better care of their teeth and gums in our clinic and at home.
Please note:
In accordance with the Dental Council of Ireland’s Scope of Practice guidelines, dental treatment carried out by a Dental Hygienist must be provided under the supervision of a registered Dentist who has first examined the patient and indicated the appropriate course of treatment.
Practice Requirement:
To ensure compliance with professional standards and our practice procedures, patients attending for Dental Hygienist treatment must have had a dental examination completed by a registered Dentist within the last 12 months in Athlone Dental.
This examination must be recorded in the patient’s clinical records before hygienist treatment can proceed.
Important Patient Information:
If a dental examination has not been completed within the previous 12 months, treatment may be declined or postponed until the appropriate dental examination has taken place.
This is a standard clinical procedure within our practice and is in place to ensure that treatment is provided safely, appropriately and in accordance with the Dental Council of Ireland’s requirements for the supervision and scope of practice of Dental Hygienists.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us maintain the highest standards of patient care and safety.
Brushing and flossing twice a day will keep your teeth clean and healthy. Regular visits to your dentist will also help keep your dental heath in good order. Every mouth is different. We’re happy to advise you on your oral hygiene regime and get you started with professional cleaning.
It is recommended to have a hygiene appointment every 6 months. For some people with advanced gum disease the recommendation is to have hygiene appointments more frequently.
If the bristles on your toothbrush are not straight, then it is time to change that toothbrush. The average time span of a toothbrush is 2 months.
The cost of a hygiene visit with the dentist and an exam can be viewed on our Fees page. If you are PRSI qualified, you can have your teeth cleaned for €15.