Welcome to the TDP Summer newsletter with the latest news behind the scenes and some top tips for your dental health.
What does a Dental Therapist do?
As well as doing all the work that a dental hygienist does, a dental therapist can also carry out some dental procedures that patients are more used to a dentist doing.
A dental therapist, such as Gemma at Torrington Dental Practice, can do fillings, extract ‘baby’ teeth, place preformed crowns on baby teeth and do treatments using all the materials a dentist would use.
They are able to see patients for emergency appointments (if patients have no pain), offering a temporary solution or permanent fixture where possible to lost fillings, broken teeth or lost crowns, this will be decided in your appointment.
NHS Dental Check-ups
Generally, the lower your risk of dental problems, the longer you can wait before your next check-up. So people with good oral health will probably need to attend only once every 12 months, but those with more problems will need check-ups more often.
It is recommended that patients book their next check-up at the reception desk when leaving the practice as there is a 9-12 month wait for check-up appointments.
TDP team news
Niamh Doyle
We’re thrilled to announce our lovely dentist, Niamh Doyle, has given birth to a beautiful baby girl. We wish all the best to her and her family and a happy and restful maternity leave together. For any patients with upcoming exams with Niamh, the reception team will be in touch to confirm appointments if they haven’t already.
Izzy Montague
Congratulations to Izzy Montague who has recently passed her final exams and is now a qualified dental nurse. Well done Izzy!
Angela Kiwomya
Our fabulous dental therapist, Angela Kiwomya, will be leaving us at the end of June for pastures new, relocating with her partner, we wish her all the best on her new adventure. All patients with hygiene booked with Angela have been contacted to reconfirm dates and times for your upcoming appointment.
TEETH GRINDING
There are a number of things you can try to help with teeth grinding, including:
- Find ways to relax – for example, by doing breathing exercises, listening to music and taking regular exercise
- Take painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen if you have jaw pain or swelling
- Try to improve your sleep by going to bed at the same time every night, relaxing before bedtime and making sure your bedroom is dark and quiet
- Here at the practice, your dentist can also recommend a night guard to help with night grinding