Private vs. NHS Dentist Leicester: Benefits

leicester dental surgery

Choosing the Right Dentist: Private Practice vs. NHS in Leicester

When it comes to oral health, selecting the right dentist is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Your dental care not only impacts your overall health but also your confidence in your smile. In Leicester, you have options when it comes to choosing a dentist, including both private dental practices and those under the NHS. Today, we’ll explore how to make an informed choice and the benefits of opting for a private dental practice or an NHS one.

How to Choose the Right Dentist in Leicester

Selecting the right dentist is a personal decision and should be based on your individual needs and preferences. Here are some key factors that you should consider:

1) Location and Accessibility: Start by looking for a dentist that’s conveniently located for you. Consider factors like proximity to your home or workplace and ease of parking or public transportation.

2) Services Offered: Different dentists offer various services. Ensure that the dentist you choose provides the treatments you require, whether it’s general dentistry, cosmetic procedures, orthodontics, or specialised dental care.

3) Qualifications and Experience: Check the dentist’s credentials and experience. How long have they been practising? Do they have expertise in specific areas of dentistry that are relevant to the care that you will need?

4) Patient Reviews and Recommendations: Online reviews and recommendations from friends or family can provide insights into a dentist’s reputation and patient satisfaction.

5) Technology and Equipment: Modern dental practices often invest in advanced technology for more comfortable and efficient treatments. Such as scanners instead of impressions. Is a modern dental practice important to you?

6) Financial Considerations: Understand the costs associated with dental care. Does the dentist offer NHS or a dental membership plan? What are their payment options?

What are the Benefits of Choosing a Private Dental Practice

Private dental practices, like Smile Essential, offer a range of advantages that make them an appealing choice for many patients in Leicester.

1. Personalised Care: Private dentists often have more time to spend with each patient, allowing for a personalised approach to treatment. They can address your concerns and tailor treatment plans to your unique needs.

2. Shorter Wait Times: Private practices typically have shorter waiting lists for appointments, ensuring that you don’t have to wait any longer than necessary.

3. Comprehensive Services: Private dentists often offer a wider range of services, including cosmetic dentistry and specialised treatments, giving you more options for your dental needs.

4. State-of-the-Art Facilities: Many private practices invest in cutting-edge technology and equipment, providing patients with access to the latest advancements in dental care.

5. Membership Plans: One common misconception is that private dental care is prohibitively expensive. However, many private practices, including Smile Essential, offer membership plans that can make dental care more affordable.

Affordable Dental Care with Membership Plans

Smile Essential offers a Dental Care Membership Plan designed to make high-quality dental care accessible and affordable. It’s really popular with our patients. Here’s how it works:

Regular Preventive Care: Membership includes routine check-ups, cleanings, and X-rays, which are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing problems from occurring in the first place.
Discounts on Additional Services: Members receive discounts on various dental treatments, including fillings, crowns, and cosmetic work.
Spreading Costs: The membership plan spreads the cost of your dental care throughout the year, making it more manageable and predictable.
Priority Appointments: Members often have priority access to appointment slots, reducing waiting times.
Peace of Mind: With regular preventive care, you can catch and address dental issues early, potentially avoiding more costly and extensive treatments in the future.

Conclusion

Choosing a dentist in Leicester is a decision that should align with your individual preferences, needs, and budget. While the NHS provides valuable dental care services, having private dental care can provide you with a more convenient and personalised option.

Remember, maintaining your oral health is an investment in your overall well-being, so choose a dentist who can provide the care and support you deserve.

Click here for more information on Smile Essential’s Dental Care Membership Plan or here to schedule an appointment.

Your journey to a healthier smile starts here.

Leicester City Hockey Club Exclusive Sports Mouthguard Offer!

Unleash Your Winning Smile with Smile Essential’s Exclusive Sports Mouthguard Offer!

Are you a proud member of the Leicester City Hockey Club, ready to take the field and conquer your opponents? At Smile Essential Dental Practice, we understand the thrill of the game and the importance of protecting your teeth while you’re out there giving your best shot!

Safety First on the Field

Hockey is an exhilarating sport that demands dedication, skill, and teamwork. It’s also a sport where unexpected collisions or contact with equipment can occur. In the heat of the game, it’s easy to forget the potential risks to your precious teeth. That’s why Smile Essential is thrilled to announce an exclusive offer for all LCHC members.

Protect Your Winning Smile

We believe in keeping your winning smile intact, both on and off the field. Our state-of-the-art sports mouthguards are designed to offer unparalleled protection, ensuring that your teeth stay safe during every intense match. These custom-made mouthguards provide a snug fit, allowing you to breathe and communicate effortlessly while safeguarding your teeth from potential injuries.

Affordable Protection for Champions

Here’s the best part: as a member of LCHC, we have an exclusive offer that reduces the cost of our mouthguards massively! Mouthguards usually retail between £120 and £145 at Smile Essential.

The discounted fees for sports mouthguards for LCHC players at Smile Essential are as follows:

Single Colour: £60
2 Colours: £62
Multicolour: £70
With logo/personalised name: £5.00 extra.

Extra benefits

You are also entitled to an incredible 10% discount on most other dental treatments at Smile Essential.

A Family Affair

But that’s not all! The 10% discount isn’t just for you; it extends to your immediate family members too. Smile Essential believes in keeping your whole family’s smiles bright, on and off the field.

Booking Is Easy

To get your custom sports mouthguard and avail of this fantastic offer, simply quote the code ‘LCHC2023’ when booking your appointment with us. Remember, there’s a £30 refundable deposit to secure your booking, so you can focus on preparing for your next game.

At Smile Essential Dental Practice, we’re not just your ordinary dental clinic; we’re your partners in maintaining your winning smile while you conquer the field. Don’t miss out on this exclusive offer designed especially for you, the champions of Leicester City Hockey Club. Protect your teeth, unleash your potential, and keep smiling, because we’ve got your back, on and off the field!

To learn more about our sports mouthguards and the benefits of protecting your teeth during sports, visit our ‘Sports Mouthguards’ page by clicking here.

Your game, your victory, your smile – Smile Essential has got you covered! Arrange an appointment today.

T&C’s apply

Smile Essential Dental Practice Becomes Club Dentist for Leicester City Hockey Club!

Smile Essential Dental Practice has proudly become the designated dental partner for Leicester City Hockey Club, extending exclusive benefits to all club members. The partnership encompasses attractive discounts and special offers, particularly on essential gear like gumshields.

Dr. Niket Patel, the principal at Smile Essential Dental Practice, expressed great enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We are thrilled to join forces with Leicester City Hockey Club. Our objective is to contribute to the players’ well-being and peak performance. Gumshields hold paramount significance for hockey athletes, and we take pride in extending discounted rates for these vital products.”

Renowned for its prominent stature in the UK, Leicester City Hockey Club boasts an illustrious history of accomplishments. The club’s players have notably represented both England and Great Britain in international competitions.

Sarah Treanor, Director of Leicester Hockey City Club C.I.C., shared her excitement about the alliance: “We are delighted to welcome Smile Essential Dental Practice as the club dentist. Dr. Niket and his adept team are poised to furnish our players with unparalleled dental care. The additional perk of gumshield discounts adds an extra layer of safety and well-being for our players on the field.”

Smile Essential Dental Practice stands as a distinguished dental institution in Leicester, offering a comprehensive spectrum of dental services, encompassing general dentistry, cosmetic procedures, Invisalign treatment, teeth whitening, and facial aesthetics. The practice remains steadfastly dedicated to ensuring superior quality care for its esteemed patients.

Overcoming Dental Anxiety: Top 5 Tips for Nervous Patients at Smile Essential, Leicester

Introduction

At Smile Essential, we understand that dental anxiety is a common concern for many patients. Our mission is to create a comfortable and stress-free environment for everyone, especially those who may feel nervous about visiting the dentist. If you’re one of those individuals, fear not! In this blog, we’ll share five helpful tips to help you overcome dental anxiety and have a pleasant experience during your visit to our dental practice in Leicester.

Communicate Your Feelings

First and foremost, open communication with your dentist is key. Informing your dental team about your fears and anxieties allows them to tailor their approach to suit your needs. Our friendly and compassionate dental professionals at Smile Essential will take the time to listen and address your concerns, making sure you feel at ease throughout your appointment. Knowing that you are in caring hands can significantly reduce anxiety levels.

Schedule a Consultation

If dental anxiety is preventing you from scheduling a regular check-up or undergoing necessary treatments, consider booking a consultation first. This introductory meeting will give you an opportunity to meet the dentist, familiarize yourself with the dental environment, and discuss your worries in a relaxed setting. It’s a chance for you to gain confidence and trust in our team before any actual procedures take place.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

Before your appointment, practice relaxation techniques to calm your nerves. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or listening to calming music can help reduce anxiety. At Smile Essential, we encourage our patients to take a few moments to relax in our waiting area, ensuring you enter the treatment room feeling more composed and at ease.

Bring a Supportive Companion

Bringing a friend or family member to accompany you during your dental visit can provide a sense of comfort and reassurance. Having someone you trust by your side can be a great source of emotional support, making the experience less daunting. Our dental team at Smile Essential welcomes the presence of a companion and will ensure they feel included in the process.

Distraction Techniques

For patients with dental anxiety, distraction techniques can be incredibly helpful in reducing nervousness during your appointment. Consider bringing headphones and listening to your favourite music, an audiobook, or a podcast during your treatment. Engaging your mind with enjoyable content can shift your focus away from any potential discomfort, making the experience more pleasant.

Additionally, some patients find comfort in stress balls or fidget toys that they can hold and squeeze while in the dental chair. These small, simple distractions can work wonders in easing anxiety and allowing you to feel more relaxed throughout the visit.

Conclusion

At Smile Essential in Leicester, we believe that dental visits should be positive and anxiety-free for every patient. By following these tips and taking advantage of our patient-centred approach, you can conquer your dental fears and achieve optimal oral health. Remember, our team is here to support and guide you through every step of your dental journey. So, don’t let dental anxiety hold you back—schedule an appointment with us today and experience the difference!

🦷 New Patient Dental Consultation Offer 🎁

😁 We currently have some availability to welcome new private patients before Christmas and have an offer that makes joining us now at Smile Essential, the perfect time.

⭐️ Save £24 on New Patient Consultations! Was £64 now only £40 when you come and visit us from now until December 16th 2022.

Here’s why you should choose us –

1) Enthusiastic and caring dentists

2) Friendly, helpful staff

3) A full range of general and preventative dentistry

4) Cosmetic dentistry such as Invisalign, teeth whitening and smile makeovers are available.

5) Experienced working with nervous or anxious patients

6) Flexible finance plans available such as Klarna

7) Highly rated and reviewed on Google

👉🏾 Get in touch with us and take advantage of this offer today. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice.

📞 0116 2891317

📧 info@smileessential.co.uk

Limited spaces are available. T&c’s apply.

#dentistleicester #invisalignleicester

Essential Invisalign Information…

If you have been looking at your options to straighten your teeth, then you have likely heard about Invisalign.

Invisalign treatment involves wearing clear aligners over your teeth, so they are pretty discreet. Invisalign treatment uses one of the worlds most advanced systems. They work by gently exerting pressure on key areas to align (hence being known as aligners) the teeth into a more desirable position. The aligners are designed to be changed every 1-2 weeks as the teeth can only be moved a small amount at a time.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Invisalign we hear at our Leicester dental practice about Invisalign:

How does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign works by gently exerting pressure on your teeth to move them into the correct position. Each aligner is changed every 7-14 days so it can adjust the pressure in the right spots as your teeth move.

Is Invisalign discreet?

Absolutely. The clear aligners make them virtually undetectable at a social distance. They are one of the most discreet cosmetic brace systems available on the market.

Will Invisalign affect my lifestyle?

You should wear your Invisalign aligners day and night. They can be taken out to eat, drink and clean your teeth. This is often a big bonus for patients that have previously had conventional orthodontics as you have to adjust the food you eat.

Does it hurt?

It’s generally considered less painful than traditional fitted brace systems. Most people being treated with Invisalign report some discomfort when changing their aligners. This usually dissipates shortly after.

Will Invisalign work for me?

Invisalign isn’t a suitable treatment option for everyone. That’s why we always invite people in for a consultation. Our Leicester dentists can have a chat with you to see if Invisalign would be suitable. They would also advise you of your other options, including if an alternative treatment with an orthodontist would be more appropriate. If it is decided that this is the right treatment for you, we will invite you back for a more detailed assessment.

How long does Invisalign take?

This depends on the position of your teeth and the complexity of your case. Invisalign can take as little as three months. Your Invisalign provider will be able to provide you with an approximate timeline once the Invisalign treatment process has begun.

How much does Invisalign cost?

Again this depends on your personalised Invisalign treatment plan. However, your Invisalign provider will be able to give you an approximate cost at a complimentary consultation. It’s essential when looking at the cost of Invisalign treatment; you check what is covered. Such as retainers following the treatment to keep your teeth in place and any added benefits such as free teeth whitening.

If you would like to arrange a consultation or have questions about Invisalign clear brace treatment in Leicester, then you can contact us at info@smileessential.co.uk or call 0116 2891317.

Say hello to Lauren!

This lovely young lady behind the mask is Lauren. Lauren works with us as a Decontamination Operative at Smile Essential.

In her role as a Decontamination Operative, Lauren is responsible for putting our patients’ interests first and acts to protect them by carrying out procedures to control cross-infection in the dental surgery, an important aspect of patient protection. Lauren also supports the dentists and nurses before dental procedures and ensures that the surgery operates efficiently.

Some fun facts about Lauren!

When Lauren was growing up, she wanted to a Brain Surgeon! (We’re impressed, Lauren!)

Lauren loves football and supports Liverpool.

Spot a familiar face? Lauren is also our Receptionist Adeles daughter!

In her free time, Lauren loves collecting designer clothes and driving.

Her favourite film is Contagion, and her favourite TV show is Rick and Morty.

Lauren says that she enjoys working with the rest of the dental team and getting everything organised.

We asked Lauren why she thinks it’s important to visit the dental practice and her answer was perfect! She believes keeping on top of your dental health is essential to prevent illness and pain and that a good smile lightens up your face! We think she’s right!

6 Health Conditions That Can Be Affected By Having an Unhealthy Mouth…

We all know that not brushing and flossing can have a significant impact on your teeth and gums. But not everyone understands the effect that oral health has on your overall health. Brushing and flossing are more important than you might think. Of course, you’re probably aware of brushing and flossing for better dental health, but are you aware that your mouth health can directly affect your overall health?

The mouth is the gateway to your body, and often if you have a healthy mouth, you will have a healthy body. The mouth is teeming with bacteria — most of them harmless. Usually, the body’s natural defences and good oral hygiene, such as daily brushing and flossing, help keep these bacteria under control. However, without proper dental care, bacteria can reach high levels that might lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Diabetes

Inflammation impairs the body’s ability to utilise insulin. By improving your oral hygiene and treating gum disease, you can help bring diabetes under better control.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Treating periodontal disease has been shown to reduce pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis.

Heart Disease

Though the reasons are still not fully understood, it is clear that gum disease and heart disease often go hand in hand. Up to 91% of patients with heart disease also have periodontitis. It’s suspected that periodontitis has a direct role in raising the risk of heart disease. The theory is that inflammation in the mouth causes inflammation in the blood vessels.

Obesity

Two studies have linked obesity to gum disease. It appears that periodontitis progresses more quickly in the presence of higher body fat.

Pregnancy

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase a woman’s risk of gum related problems. Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight. Researchers are looking into the connection, but it is believed that gum infection and inflammation, in general, seem to interfere with a fetus’ development in the womb.

Lung Conditions

Periodontal disease may make pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease worse, possibly increasing the number of bacteria in the lungs.

In summary

It’s important to understand that the body and mouth are not separate. Taking good care of your teeth and gums can help you live well for longer. To protect your oral health, practice good oral hygiene every day by doing the following:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

• Floss or use interdental brushes daily

• Eat a healthy balanced diet and limit snacks between meals

• Replace your toothbrush every three or sooner if needed

• Have regular dental health checks

• Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol

5 things we wish our patients knew to keep their teeth healthy this Christmas…

Using your teeth as a tool

Everyone knows that we shouldn’t use our teeth to open things such as bottles but it is one worth remembering because it still seems to happen an awful lot!

We have heard of teeth being used to do all sorts of things such as cracking nuts and tearing off tags. Be mindful of how precious your teeth are and grab a tool instead of your teeth.

Fizzy drinks

I’m sure you don’t need us to tell you that fizzy drinks such as coke and lemonade are bad for your teeth. But did you know that other fizzy drinks such as Prosecco, Champagne and the Christmas favourite – Bucks Fizz can also pose a risk?

It isn’t just the sugar you have to worry about with these drinks but the acidity. Every time you sip on this drink, the PH level in your mouth alters for around 20 minutes.

Now we don’t want to spoil your fun it is Christmas after all. You can minimise damage by trying to drink them at mealtimes, snack on cheese, also sipping water and not drinking it too frequently.

Sticky sweets

We hate sticky sweets they are literally the worse things for your teeth! Our top villain – TOFFEE. Toffee may be delicious but it is one of the toughest things you can eat. If you have any dental work, then toffee should be completely avoided!

Sticky sweets really hang around. They stick to every nook and cranny and hang around long after you’ve finished eating them.

Nuts

If you have some teeth that have large fillings in you may already avoid nuts. But often over Christmas, they seem to make an appearance. Whilst nuts are a healthy snack they can pose a real threat to causing a broken tooth. If nuts are a must for you then practice mindful chewing and sticking to softer nuts such as cashews and avoided the harder ones such as Brazil and Hazelnuts.

Grazing

Eating is such a huge part of Christmas and we can end up munching all day. Many people are unaware that it is the frequency of consuming sugary or acidic foods that causes the most damage. After you eat your PH level is altered from twenty minutes up to an hour. If you graze all day, this means that you are not leaving anytime for your mouth to recover.

You can minimise the damage by reducing how much of the day you spend eating and drinking and also choosing better snacks for your teeth. Snacking on cheese, vegetables and sipping water is a great way to keep your mouth in better shape.

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