FAQ

What are dental implants and how do they work?

Dental implants are fixed replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth meaning you can eat and drink whatever you are used to and improve your quality of life in subtle ways. People who have felt embarrassed and worried because of their tooth problems are often amazed by what new permanent teeth can do for their self-esteem and confidence to smile.

Why choose dental implants?

Dental implants are one of the most predictable ways to replace missing or irreparable teeth. They usually last far longer than bridges, crowns and dentures. Dental implants are the closest thing to your own teeth in how they look and feel. Though the initial cost is higher they usually need far less replacements. They do however require minor surgery to place the implants.

How long does a dental implant take?

Treatment times vary. Usually we will place the implant and provide a temporary tooth to replace the gap. Then the crown/ bridge/ denture will be placed 4 to 6 months later. For same day teeth, a full set of teeth is fixed in place on the implants and replaced with the final set 4 to 6 months later.

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care, dental implants can last 15+ years or even a lifetime.

What results can I expected from my new dental implant?

Implants offer a fixed replacement of teeth that do not damage or put pressure on your natural teeth. They are the closest replacement to your teeth in appearance and function. If looked after with good cleaning and annual reviews, they usually last much longer than crowns or bridges.

Are Implants safe and how long will they last?

Implants are well-established tried-and-tested treatment. Over 95% of modern implants should last many years with the right care.

I have some of my own teeth. Can I still have implants?

Yes. You can have any number – from one single tooth to complete set.

Can Implants always be used to replace missing teeth?

It depends on the condition of the bone in your jaw. Dr Olsen will arrange for a number of special tests to find out the amount of bone still there. If there is not enough, or if it isn’t healthy enough, it may not be possible to place implants without grafting bone into the area first.

Do implants hurt?

Placing the implants means a small operation. This can be done using simple local anesthetic. You will not feel any pain at the time, but you may feel some discomfort during the week after the surgery.

This is usually due to having stitches, and the normal healing process.

What about after care with dental implants?

The doctor may give you some pain relief after the surgery, or check whether you have them at home to take over the next few days if you need them. She may also prescribe antibiotics. Don’t smoke, exercise or drive for the rest of the day. Don’t rinse the area and only eat soft food. However, it is important that you keep you mouth clean by brushing – but do not poke the implant site. You can use a chlorhexidine mouthwash every day during the first week after surgery.

Are the implanted teeth difficult to clean?

No. After care it is important if you are going to have a long-lasting, successful implant. The doctor will give you detailed advice on how to look after your implants.

Cleaning around the teeth attached to the implant is no more difficult than cleaning natural teeth.

However, there may be areas that are difficult to reach and you’ll be shown methods to help you.

If I had gum disease when I had my own teeth, will I get it with teeth attached to the implants?

Yes, if you don’t care for them well enough. If you keep them clean, and don’t smoke, then you should not have any problems.

What happens if the implant does not bond with the bone?

This happens very rarely. If the implant becomes loose during the healing period or just after, then it is easily removed and healing takes place in the normal way.

Once the jaw has healed, another implant can be placed there. Or, the dentist can make a bridge, using the implanted false teeth that have ‘taken’.

How do I get my oral health checked?

The only way to fully assess your oral health is to book in for an appointment with our dentist. They will be able to check for gum disease, mouth cancer, and other problems. Early detection is always best when it comes to oral health, and we advise patients to attend regular appointments with us to make sure their mouths stay happy and healthy.

Who will be with me during my treatment?

At Shirland Dental, all of our staff are available to help patients before, during, and after treatment. Your dentist will be able to answer any questions you have during yourconsultation and any subsequent appointments, as well as offering aftercare to ensure you are happy with the results.

What should I do if I am nervous?

Being nervous about going to the dentist is a very common feeling. The best thing to do is to let us know so that we can take steps to ensure that you are made as comfortable as possible during your visit. If you know that a specific aspect of dentistry makes you anxious, such as drills, please let us know as it may be possible for alternative methods to be used. Putting off getting the treatment you need is never good, as it may mean that you need more extensive treatment later on if a problem is allowed to persist.

Where is your practice located?

We have two clinics: Maida Vale (142 Shirland Road, W9 2BT) and Queens Park (48 Salusbury Road, NW66NN)

How do I become a patient at your practice?

Register with us either through the online form on our website, by calling our Reception, or by popping in to the clinic during the day!

What facilities do you provide for wheelchair users?

We have a wheelchair ramp, and an accessible toliet, to ensure all of our patients are as comfortable as possible.

What is Root Canal Treatment and why do I need it?

Root canal treatment is used to save a tooth that’s infected or inflamed inside due to decay, injury, or a crack. The infected pulp is removed, the inside is cleaned, and the tooth is sealed and restored.

You might need it if you have persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling or an abscess, deep decay or tooth trauma. It helps relieve pain, stops infection, and prevents the need for extraction — keeping your natural tooth in place.

How long does Whitening last?

Degree of lightness will vary from patient to patient. Some patients may need to repeat the procedure periodically to top up the effect.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes, when carried out by a qualified dental professional. We offer take-home options approved by UK regulations.

Do I have to redo whitening?

To maintain your bright smile, Enlighten suggests:

Year 1: Top-up once every 2 months overnight.

Year 2: Top-up once every 3 months overnight.

Year 3: Top-up once every 6 months overnight

What are the benefits of whitening?

Teeth whitening improves the appearance of your teeth without removing any of the natural tooth surface.

It is a better option than a crown or veneer if you want to lighten the colour of healthy teeth

When is a tooth extraction necessary?

Extractions may be needed for severely decayed, damaged, or impacted teeth (such as wisdom teeth).

Will I be in pain after dental extraction?

It is likely that there will be some discomfort and swelling both on the inside and outside of your mouth after extraction/surgery. This is usually worse for the first three days but it can take up to two weeks before all the soreness disappears.

You may need to control the pain with tablets. If these have not been prescribed, you can use pain killers you would normally use if you had a headache. Follow the dosage recommended on the packet. If antibiotics have been prescribed, please ensure you finish the course.

How long is the recovery after an extraction?

Most people recover within a few days. We provide full aftercare instructions to support healing.

Can I eat or drink after dental extraction?

Try not to eat or drink if possible until after the numbness has worn off. It is advisable to eat on the opposite side of your mouth to the extraction site. For the first 12 hours (after the numbness has worn off) avoid hot drinks (which can break down the clot). Take only warm liquids or soft foods.

Can I smoke or drink alcohol after a dental extraction?

It is advisable not to smoke or drink alcohol for at least 24 hours after the extraction.

Smoking can prevent healing and cause bleeding to start.

What do I need to do at home after a dental extraction?

When you have had a tooth out you must look after the area to speed healing and to reduce the risk of infection. It is important to keep the extraction site as clean as possible for the first few weeks after surgery. It might be difficult to clean your teeth around the sites of the extraction because it is sore.

The day after your extraction you can start using a warm salt water bath to help reduce the risk of infection. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, hold a mouthful in your mouth for about 30 seconds so that the solution floods to the extraction site, then spit it out and continue in the same way until you have used the entire cup. You can do this after every meal or two to three times a day. Keep using the salt water until the extraction socket has healed. Do not use mouthwash as this may harm newly growing cells.

Will I have any problems after my tooth is extracted?

It is uncommon to get an infection, particularly if good oral hygiene is maintained after surgery. If you are worried about infection, the signs would be a raised temperature, a nasty taste in the mouth, increased pain and severe swelling around the extraction site. If you experience any of these, it is important to contact us as soon as possible.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign straightens teeth using a series of nearly invisible, removable aligners that are custom-made specifically for your teeth. As you replace each aligner every two weeks, your teeth will move – little by little, week by week, gradually moving towards the projected final position.

Comfortable, clear and removable – Invisalign transforms your smile without disrupting your life. Something that over 3 million people worldwide have already discovered.

What are the benefits of Invisalign?

• Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible. No one may even notice that you’re wearing these virtually invisible aligners, making
• Invisalign a seamless fit with your lifestyle and day-to-day interactions with others.
• Invisalign aligners are removable giving you the flexibility to eat and drink what you want during treatment by simply removing the aligners. And you can also remove the aligners to brush and floss as you normally would for fresh breath and to maintain good oral hygiene.
• Unlike traditional fixed braces, there are no metal brackets or wires. This means that in most cases less time is spent in your Invisalign Provider’s practice for adjustments.
• And finally, Invisalign allows you to view your virtual results and treatment plan before you even begin treatment so you can see how your teeth are expected to look when your treatment is complete

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Treatment typically takes 6–18 months, depending on your case. We’ll assess this during your consultation.

Are Invisalign aligners painful?

You may feel mild pressure when switching to a new set, but most patients find them very comfortable.

Do you treat children at your clinic?

Yes, we welcome children of all ages and aim to make their dental visits relaxed and positive.

When should I bring my child for their first check-up?

We recommend seeing a dentist as soon as the first teeth come through, and certainly by age one.

Do you provide nervous patient support for children?

Yes. We’re experienced in working with anxious children and offer a gentle, friendly approach to help them feel at ease.

Do you accept new patients?

Yes, we warmly welcome new private patients. You can book a consultation online or by calling us directly.

Are your dentists fully qualified and registered?

Absolutely. All our dentists are GDC-registered, highly experienced, and committed to providing the highest standards of care.

Is Botox treatment safe?

Yes, Botox is a medically regulated treatment and is safely administered by our trained and certified clinicians.

What can Botox treat?

Botox can be used to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, jaw clenching (bruxism), and excessive sweating.

How long does Botox last?

Botox typically lasts 3–4 months, depending on individual metabolism and treatment area.

What cosmetic treatments do you offer?

We offer veneers, teeth whitening, smile makeovers, composite bonding, Invisalign, and more.

Can I get a full smile makeover?

Yes, we offer customised smile makeovers tailored to your goals, combining multiple treatments like whitening, veneers, and alignment.

Is a cosmetic consultation free?

We often provide complimentary cosmetic consultations – please check our latest offers or contact us for details.

Do you offer payment plans or finance options?

Yes, we offer flexible 0% finance on many treatments. Ask our team for more details.

How do I book an appointment?

You can book online through our website, call us, or visit the clinic in person.

What languages do the dentists speak?

We have dentists that can speak Arabic, German, Farsi, as well as English

Do you offer finance?

Yes! We offer 10-12 months with 0.0% interest. Speak to our friendly team about your options if you are considering treatment.

Do I have to pay a deposit?

Yes, when booking any appointment we take a initial deposit that may vary depending on the treatment being done. If you cancel with less than 48 hours’ notice your deposit will be taken towards the practice and the Dentist’s time. To book a new appointment we will need to take another deposit.