As a guide, the costs of some common private treatments are given below. You will be given a full estimate and treatment plan after examination and will be advised of any proposed changes during a course of treatment. Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to ask a member of staff or your dentist.
Examination and General Checkup
In general, if treatment is done on the day, we do not charge for the check-up. For patients who qualify under the dental benefit scheme (PRSI), they are entitled to one free check-up every twelve months.
Fillings
We provide both white (composite) and amalgam (silver) fillings. Fillings are used to fill holes (cavities) that have formed, usually as a result of decay or tooth wear
Amalgam fillings
These are made up of a combination of metals including silver, tin, copper and mercury. It is extremely durable and able to withstand the grinding and chewing of back teeth over long periods of time.
White (tooth-coloured fillings)
These are a natural-looking alternative to amalgam fillings. While amalgam is more durable, where possible we now prefer to use white fillings.
Scale and Polish
Scaling is the removal of Calculus(Tartar) and plaque that attach to the tooth surface. The teeth are then polished using a special prophylaxis paste. This is mostly done by our hygienist who will also show you how to prevent this build up in the future.
Root Planing/Root Surface Debridement
This is the removal of calculus that builds up sub-gingivally (under the gum) damaging the foundation(bone) of the tooth. Again this is mainly done by Betty our hygienist.
Fissure Sealants
This is a protective plastic coating which is applied to the biting surfaces of the back teeth (as these are the first surfaces to decay). The sealant forms a hard shield that keeps food and bacteria from getting into the tiny grooves in the teeth. Fissure sealants can be done by a dentist or hygienist.
Tooth whitening
We prefer home bleaching but in order to do this properly we take impressions and have special custom trays fabricated. We then supply a kit which uses a lower concentrate and so causes less sensitivity and allows more control. There is no such thing as laser bleaching. It is just light activated chemicals.
Root canal treatment
This is a dental procedure to fix a tooth by removing the pulp chamber of the tooth and filling it with a suitable filling material. It is usually carried out when the tooth cannot be filled or restored any other way because the decay has reached the nerve of the tooth or the tooth has become infected. It eliminates the pain and stops it reoccurring.
Crowns
These are shaped like natural teeth and fit over the prepared tooth. They are used if a tooth has been broken or weakened by a lot of decay or a large filling. The crown will strengthen it and improve its appearance. Crowns completely cover the tooth.
Veneers
These are facings put on the front of anterior teeth to improve their appearance. They are similar to crowns but do not completely cover the teeth.
Dental Bridges
This bridges the gap created by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is made up of two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth/teeth in between while adhesive bridges can be fitted with minimal preparation to adjacent teeth.
Extractions
This involves the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. The most common reason for extracting a tooth is that there is too much damage for the tooth to be repaired.
Dentures
Dentures are removable appliances for replacements of teeth typically made up of acrylic resin which at times incorporate porcelain or metal for additional structural support. There are two main types: complete or partial dentures.
Orthodontics
The purpose of orthodontic treatment is to create a healthy, functional “bite”, which is part tooth alignment and part jaw position. When jaws and teeth line up correctly they are able to function as nature intended. This promotes oral health and general physical health. The different options available are either metal or of clear material. The orthodontist will advise you as to what is best for your individual needs.
Implants
This is another system of replacing missing teeth and they can be also used to help retain dentures.
Other Treatments
If an alternative treatment is necessary we will do whatever is necessary to help arrange for it to be done.