Frequently Asked Questions

Making your life as easy as possible, we answer your most frequently asked questions.

We endeavour to answer as many queries as possible to ensure you have all the information needed about our dentistry service. However please call us on 01425 272250 should you need to speak with us.

New Patients

The first step is to give our friendly reception team a call to book your new patient examination – we’d love to welcome you! During your visit, we’ll take routine X-rays (all included in the cost) and have a thorough look at your teeth and gums. Your dentist will chat with you about any treatments you might need to get you on the path to your dream smile.

We completely understand how challenging dental anxiety can be. Thankfully, our entire team – from the reception staff to our dentists – are exceptionally compassionate and gentle. We’re here to support you and help you feel at ease throughout the entire process, both before and after your appointment.

Here is a testimonial from one of our patients:

“My daughter saw Raquel today for a New patient examination and to discuss ongoing Orthodontic treatment. The examination was so thorough and Raquel is so knowledgeable. She really has such a calming manner and really makes you feel at ease. My daughter has always in the past been nervous with going to dental appointments, but this time she was so relaxed with Raquel and her lovely nurse Charlotte. The receptionist Chloe is also so lovely! You really do feel like one of the family! Highly recommend.” – C.M

Yes, our Highcliffe practice is highly accessible. We have wide hallways and a purpose-designed surgery, along with a spacious waiting area to accommodate for mobility. The entire practice is on one level, ensuring easy access throughout, and our toilets are also generously sized to provide ample room for mobility needs.

Christchurch practice inside Sainsbury's is also all on one floor, and there is a lift available for patients who are unable to use the stairs.

Yes, at Highcliffe and Christchurch family dentistry we offer Denplan for all out patients. There are 2 plans: Plan A £26.25 (2 check ups and hygiene appointments a year) Plan B £40.40 (2 check ups and 4 hygiene appointments a year) Both plans you get 10% off treatments.

You can apply for Denplan with our friendly reception team once you’ve had your New Patient Exam. It’s never too late to sign up, and you can even add your family to make things simpler! If you’re interested, just pop in and have a chat with our team. *Treatment will start or be activated once you’ve completed any pre-planned treatment from your New Patient Exam.*

We have various early morning, late evening and Saturday appointments available upon request to help fit your dental care into your busy schedule.

Children's dentistry

Children ideally should have their first visit within 6 months of their first tooth appearing, or by their first birthday at the latest. However, we always encourage parents to bring their children from as early as they like, to get used to the surroundings and the team.

If you are a regular patient at our practice, your children under 6 can be seen free of charge. Children aged 6 and over are required to pay a £25 fee for their examinations. Please note that a parent or guardian must have their routine examination at the same time for the child to be eligible for this offer.

General dentistry

If used correctly, an electric toothbrush is often the best option. Rest assured, we’ll provide personalised guidance on your brushing technique during each visit, ensuring optimal oral care, tailored to you.

No, don’t stop. Your gums are bleeding due to the bacteria that has collected there and caused gingivitis (an inflammation of the gum tissue). You have to continue your dental hygiene routine in order to remove all the bacteria. The bleeding should stop once the inflammation has subsided.

At our practices we have the lowest and fastest dose of radiation digital X-rays. Dental X-rays are one of the lowest radiation dose X-rays performed. A routine exam which includes 4 X-rays is about 0.005 mSv, which is less than one day of natural background radiation. It is also about the same amount of radiation exposure from a short airplane flight (~1-2 hrs).

No, rinsing flushes away the fluoride from your toothpaste. Spit but don’t rinse. Ideally, avoid any drink for 45 minutes after brushing to give the fluoride time to work.

We say stick to a well known brand and brushing your teeth thoroughly with fluoride toothpaste is one of the most effective ways of preventing tooth decay. Toothpastes containing 1350-1500ppm fluoride are the most effective. Your dentist may advise you to use higher-strength toothpaste if you or your child is at particular risk of tooth decay.

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