Dentist Mullingar - Mullingar Dental Centre - part of Shields Dental & Orthodontic Clinics Mullingar Dental Centre is now part of Shields Dental & Orthodontic clinics. We have a full range of dental, preventative and cosmetic treatments and can help whether you need an emergency appointment, a visit to the hygienist or would like a full smile makeover. We're located in the heart of Mullingar. Call today to get your appointment. https://www.familydentist.ie/ Virtuoso Aligner Promotion - 'New Year, New Smile' Tue, 09 Jan 2024 08:26:37 -0800 https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/virtuoso-aligner-promotion-new-year-new-smile https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/virtuoso-aligner-promotion-new-year-new-smile <p style="text-align: center; font-size: inherit;"><span style="color: #000000;"><u><strong>The Newest Fastest Teeth Alignment System In Ireland: Virtuoso Clear Aligners (Huge January promotion at Mullingar Dental Centre,“€400 off”)</strong></u></span></p><p style="font-size: 20px;"><br><span style="color: #000000;"><em><strong>Introduction</strong></em></span></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">Are you tired of the long wait and multiple visits that come with traditional alignment treatments? It can take so long that you might even lose your initial excitement and wonder, 'Why did I even sign up for this?' </span></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">Now, imagine a new, advanced, 81% remote system that allows you to get your aligners on the same day. In this article, we'll discover the Virtuoso system, a groundbreaking approach that challenges the norms of orthodontics.</span></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">We’re also offering you up to €400 off on the Virtuoso treatment at Mullingar Dental Centre, if you act before January 31st! </span></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">Plus a chance to win a Full Virtuoso Package worth €2800. Keep reading to find out!</span></p><p style="text-align: center; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;"><u><strong>The Traditional Alignment Journey</strong></u></span></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">The traditional journey of getting your aligners is a dull process that involves waking up early, sitting for hours in the waiting room at the dental practice, and repeating this multiple times a month. </span></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">First, you'll be summoned to the dental clinic for a comprehensive assessment. </span></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">Next, you’ll visit again for gooey impressions (or a 3D scan if you’re lucky) and...<a href=https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/virtuoso-aligner-promotion-new-year-new-smile>Read More</a> Annual PRSI Checkup's Tue, 28 Nov 2023 02:07:25 -0800 https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/annual-prsi-checkup-s https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/annual-prsi-checkup-s <p style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Introduction:</strong></span></p><p style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook the hidden gems that can significantly impact our lives. One such gem, the PRSI program in Ireland, holds the key to a healthier smile for its residents. Join us as we explore why a staggering 83.31% of Irish individuals miss out on this valuable opportunity for a free examination and how you can be part of the fortunate few who seize it.</span></p><p style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>The PRSI Advantage:</strong></span></p><p style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">PRSI, a government-backed initiative, is a beacon of support for your oral health. Annually, it grants you the right to a free dental examination – a benefit embraced by only 400,000 out of 2.4 million eligible individuals. Let's delve into the significance of this program and why the majority fails to tap into its advantages.</span></p><p style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Untangling the Numbers:</strong></span></p><p style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">Despite covering a substantial portion of the Irish population, the PRSI program remains underutilized. This equates to a staggering 83.31% missing out on a fundamental aspect of preventive healthcare.</span><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></span></p><p style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>The Missed Opportunity:</strong></span></p><p style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">Here's your wake-up call – don't be part of that statistic! Your dental health deserves attention, and PRSI offers a golden opportunity to address lingering issues with a free examination or indulge in some pre-Christmas self-care with scaling and polishing.</span></p><p style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color:...<a href=https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/annual-prsi-checkup-s>Read More</a> How Often Should I See a Dentist? Tue, 24 Oct 2023 05:07:02 -0700 https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/how-often-should-i-see-a-dentist https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/how-often-should-i-see-a-dentist <p style="font-size: 83%;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Getting a healthy smile is like a little adventure, and it all starts with a simple question: How often should you visit the dentist? Lots of folks wonder about this, wanting to know the key to a bright, healthy smile.</strong></span><br></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;"><u><em><strong>The Dental Visit Dilemma</strong></em></u></span><br></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">Imagine you're one of the many individuals who've pondered how frequently they should visit a dentist. The dental visit dilemma is a labyrinth, full of myths and misconceptions, leaving you in a state of uncertainty. It's a journey where the path to healthy teeth and gums is often clouded, and where misconceptions can create doubts.</span><br></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;"><u><em><strong>The Six-Month Rule</strong></em></u></span><br></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">Let's dive into a question that might have crossed your mind more than once: How frequently should you visit your dentist to ensure your smile stays radiant and your oral health remains in tip-top shape? You've probably heard the talk about the "six-month rule," but is it just a dental myth, or is there some truth to it?</span><br></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">First things first, the "six-month rule" isn't a myth – it's a valuable guideline for children and adults. Ideally, you should aim to schedule a dental check-up at least once every six months. These biannual appointments play a pivotal role in the world of oral health. They're your proactive ticket to preventing dental issues and keeping your pearly whites in top condition.</span><br></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">But here's where it gets interesting. While the "six-month rule" offers a fantastic starting point, it's not a...<a href=https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/how-often-should-i-see-a-dentist>Read More</a> The Best Toothpaste for Braces: Say Goodbye to White Spots with Biomin (2023 Discoveries) Mon, 09 Oct 2023 10:47:03 -0700 https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/the-best-toothpaste-for-braces-say-goodbye-to-white-spots-with-biomin-2023 https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/the-best-toothpaste-for-braces-say-goodbye-to-white-spots-with-biomin-2023 <p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">Orthodontic treatment is a journey toward a straighter, more confident smile. Yet, it often comes with challenges like the development of white spots on your teeth. Today, we'll explore the importance of choosing the right toothpaste for braces and introduce you to Biomin toothpaste, your new solution for maintaining impeccable oral health during orthodontic treatment and our go-to at the Mullingar Dental Centre.</span><br></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Do I Need Special Toothpaste for Braces?</strong></span><br><span style="color: #000000;"><em>The Challenge of Oral Care with Braces</em></span><br><span style="color: #000000;">Braces are remarkable tools for aligning teeth, but they create intricate spaces that demand meticulous oral care. These spaces can trap food particles and make brushing and flossing less effective. Using specialized toothpaste is essential for addressing these unique challenges.</span><br></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;"><em>Benefits of Specialized Toothpaste</em></span><br><span style="color: #000000;">Toothpaste designed for braces offers numerous advantages, including higher fluoride levels, renowned for strengthening tooth enamel and protecting it from the acids produced by harmful oral bacteria.</span><br></p><p style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>What Toothpaste Should Not Be Used with Braces?</strong></span><br><span style="color: #000000;"><em>Common Misconceptions and Risks</em></span><br><span style="color: #000000;">There are several misconceptions about toothpaste selection during orthodontic treatment that can put your oral health at risk. Here are some common myths:</span></p><ol><li style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: #000000;">All Toothpaste Brands Are Equal: Not all toothpaste is suitable for braces. It's essential to choose a toothpaste that specifically...<a href=https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/the-best-toothpaste-for-braces-say-goodbye-to-white-spots-with-biomin-2023>Read More</a> 3 Reasons Why It's Important to Schedule a Dental Appointment Even If You Haven't Been In Since Covid 19 Fri, 09 Jun 2023 08:49:15 -0700 https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/3-reasons-why-it-s-important-to-schedule-a-dental-appointment-even-if-you https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/3-reasons-why-it-s-important-to-schedule-a-dental-appointment-even-if-you <p>The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives in manyways, including our approach to healthcare. For many people, dental appointments were put on hold as dental practices focused on emergency care and safety protocols were put in place. But now, as the WHO announce that the<br>pandemic is now over, it is time to focus on your oral health. <br></p><p>Our lives are getting busy again and we are catching up on all the things we postponed during the pandemic. Maybe you haven't been to the dentist in three years, and you're not sure if it's<br>worth it to schedule an appointment now. But the truth is, regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health. Here are three reasons why:<br></p><p><u><strong>1</strong></u><u>. </u><u><strong>Catching Problems Early</strong></u> When you see a dentist regularly, they're able to catch problems before they become serious. For example, if you have a small cavity, your dentist can catch it early and fill it before it turns into a bigger problem that requires more extensive treatment. But if you wait too long to see a dentist, that small cavity could turn into a root canal or even a tooth extraction.</p><p><u><strong>2</strong></u><u>. </u><u><strong>Preventing Gum Disease</strong></u> Gum disease is a common problem that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Regular dental cleanings can help prevent gum disease by removing plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to inflammation and infection. If you haven't been to the dentist in three years, there's a chance you may have some plaque buildup that needs to be removed. </p><p><u><strong>3. Maintaining Overall Health</strong></u> Did you know that your oral health is connected to your overall health? Poor oral health has been linked to a variety of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. By seeing a dentist regularly, you can help maintain good oral health and reduce your risk of developing these health problems.</p><p><span...<a href=https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/3-reasons-why-it-s-important-to-schedule-a-dental-appointment-even-if-you>Read More</a> Dental Benefits from your PRSI contributions Fri, 12 May 2023 08:26:50 -0700 https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/dental-benefits-from-your-prsi-contributions https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/dental-benefits-from-your-prsi-contributions <p>QUALIFIED EMPLOYEES AND SELF EMPLOYED WORKERS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR DENTAL BENEFITS WITH THEIR PRSI CONTRIBUTIONS</p><p style="font-size: 28px;">The Treatment Benefit Scheme</p><p>The treatment benefit scheme is run by the Department of Social protection (DSP ) to provide a limited financial contribution towards certain dental services. It is available to insured workers, self-employed, their spouses and retired people who have the required number of PRSI contributions.</p><p>The terms of the scheme are available on the <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/1fb655-treatment-benefit-scheme" data-type="web" target="_blank">Department website</a> and many people are unaware that they are eligible. Last year, for example, two and a half million people were entitled to treatment benefit and yet less than 600,000 people availed of the service.</p><p style="font-size: 28px;">23 to 28 Year Olds</p><p>The contribution requirements for 23 to 28 year olds changed last year. This group would have spent a number of years in full time education and, hence, struggled to fill the previous contribution requirements. But these have been lowered so, if you are between 23 and 28 and were previously told you were not qualified, it’s time to check again. </p><p style="font-size: 28px;">Checking your eligibility</p><p>The process to check your eligibility couldn't be easier. Simply click on the <a href="https://www.familydentist.ie/prsi-form" data-type="web" target="_blank">link here</a> with your date of birth and PPS number. We’ll check your eligibility online with the Department and email you with a response as soon as we know. We can confirm if you are eligible for your free dental exam, a scale and Polish for 15 euros, or a contribution of €42 towards treatment of periodontal (gum) disease. </p><p>The scheme runs from 1st of January to the 31st of December each year. So make sure to use it within the calendar year.</p><p>A small number of workers will not have instant...<a href=https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/dental-benefits-from-your-prsi-contributions>Read More</a> Video Consult Child's Oral Health Care Offer Mon, 01 May 2023 09:52:35 -0700 https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/childs-oral-health https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/childs-oral-health <p style="font-size: 28px;">Video Consult - Child's Oral Health Care Offer</p><p>As featured in the Westmeath Examiner, you can now do a Video Consult and take advantage of our Child's Oral Health Care offer. For only €39.99, you get a Triple Bristle GO-battery Powered Portable Sonic Toothbrush (normally €31.99 if purchased alone) PLUS Biomen F toothpaste (normally €8 if purchaed alone), a free Scan, a free video consultation, and a free video link.  What better way to get your children's teeth checked after the lockdown? Book your video consult to get started.</p><p><span style="display: inline-block">&nbsp;</span></p><a href=https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/childs-oral-health>Read More</a> Retainer Advise Thu, 21 Oct 2021 03:53:58 -0700 https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/retainer-advise https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/retainer-advise <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>RETAINER AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS</strong></p><p style="font-size: 83%;">The following information is to help you to understand your aftercare once your active orthodontic treatment is completed. </p><p><span style="color: #71a7d0;"><u><strong>CLEAR PLASTIC RETAINER:</strong></u></span></p><p style="font-size: 83%;">Clear plastic retainers (essix retainers) are to be worn 24 hours a day (removed only when eating) for</p><p style="font-size: 83%;">6 months starting from the day you finish your active orthodontic treatment.</p><p style="font-size: inherit;"></p><p><span style="color: #71a7d0;"><u><strong>PERMANENT LINGUAL RETAINER:</strong></u></span></p><p style="font-size: 83%;">If you choose to have permanent retainers (metal wire behind the back of your teeth), you must also</p><p style="font-size: 83%;">have clear retainers made and these are to be worn over your permanent retainer at night time as an</p><p style="font-size: 83%;">extra support. However, initially you must wear the removable retainer over the permanent retainer 24</p><p style="font-size: 83%;">hours a day for the first 2 weeks after treatment.</p><p style="font-size: 83%;">After the first 2 weeks you can go wearing the removable retainer just at night time assuming it fits</p><p style="font-size: 83%;">very easily every night. If it’s tight in any way you need to go back to wearing it 24/7 until that</p><p style="font-size: 83%;">tightness goes. A retainer will only feel “tight” if some of the teeth have started to move.</p><p style="font-size: 83%;">Your dentist will show you how to clean your permanent retainer as you will NOT be able to use floss</p><p style="font-size: 83%;">but you can use tepe brushes to help clean your teeth, we also advise you keep up your annual dental</p><p style="font-size: 83%;">examination appointments and hygienist cleanings each year.</p><p style="font-size: 83%;">If the permanent retainer breaks then please wear your clear...<a href=https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/retainer-advise>Read More</a> Donna The Dental Hygienist Thu, 30 Sep 2021 09:50:17 -0700 https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/donna-the-dental-hygienist https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/donna-the-dental-hygienist <p style="text-align: start;"><span style="color: #000000;">As a Dental Hygienist preventing my patients from dental disease and helping to improve their general health is so important to me. There is now much more evidence than ever before that the health of our mouth effects our bodies such as our Heart disease, Alzheimers, Cancer, Arthritis & other inflammatoryconditions, Diabetes and Pregnancy. </span></p><p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Dental disease</strong></span><span style="color: #000000;"> the most common cause of tooth loss in adults suffering from gum disease (periodontal disease) and tooth decay (dental caries) is the most common chronic disease. Having a scale and polish or deep cleaning may sound uncomfortable, but it really improves the gums health. When I clean your teeth, I am removing the tartar (hard deposits) and plaque (soft deposits) from around and under the gum where harmful bacteria accumulate, if you are not cleaning your teeth very accurately. That's the basics of how we prevent and turn around gum disease (periodontal disease) and it's the most rewarding part of a dental hygienist's job.</span></p><p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Are you afraid of the dentist?</strong></span><span style="color: #000000;"> If you are one of those people that is afraid to go to the dental hygienist becauseyou are embarrassed of the condition of your teeth or fearful of pain, please come. Don't tell anyone but you are our favourites and we love to help you through a journey to improve your mouth.</span></p><p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Bleeding gums</strong></span><span style="color: #000000;"> It is not normal for your gums to bleed. Some patients say they avoid the areas that bleed when flossing or brushing. But that is exactly the opposite of what you should do to stop the bleeding. It’s the bacteria or plaque that’s causing the bleeding. It is a sign to step up your home care of brushing and cleaning between your teeth....<a href=https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/donna-the-dental-hygienist>Read More</a> Enhanced Practice Protocols at Mullingar Dental Mon, 23 Aug 2021 00:40:04 -0700 https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/enhanced-practice-protocols-at-mullingar-dental https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/enhanced-practice-protocols-at-mullingar-dental <p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000000;">To increase safety and minimise risk for both our patients and staff in light of Covid-19, we are implementing new protocols in the practice. Below, we've listed some of them:</span></p><ul><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000000;">Patients will be screened with a Covid-19 questionnaire and will be requested to update all details via text prior to their appointment.</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000000;">The number of people who accompany a patient on and during their appointment will be limited.</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000000;">Upon arriving, patients will have their temperature taken with a touch-less thermometer.</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000000;">Chairs in waiting room will be spread out to ensure proper social distancing. </span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000000;">'Fogging' of the Waiting Room and Surgery with Hypochlorous Acid on regular intervals.</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000000;">Option for Teledentistry to minimise visits to the practice.</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000000;">Longer Appointment Times.</span></li></ul><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000000;"><a style="color: #000000;" href="http://sms:0873132637" target="_self">Text 087 313 2637</a></span><span style="color: #000000;"> for call back on your appointment or</span><span style="color: #000000;"> </span><span style="color: #000000;"><a style="color: #000000;" href="tel:0449340370" target="_self"><u>call 044-9340370</u></a></span><span style="color: #000000;"> </span><span style="color: #000000;">to schedule an appointment. NO WALK-IN APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE - you must call the practice prior to attending</span><span style="color: #000000;"> </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color:...<a href=https://www.familydentist.ie/blog/enhanced-practice-protocols-at-mullingar-dental>Read More</a>