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BOOKING APPOINTMENTS

Booking NHS appointments

Urgent Appointments

If you need an appointment urgently, please call us as early as possible in the morning. If you’re trying to reach us outside of our regular opening hours, leave a message on our voicemail with your name, date of birth, and phone number. Keep the message brief—we will call you back to gather any additional details.
This will help us prioritise your treatment and address your concerns more efficiently.

Non-Urgent Appointments

For non-urgent matters, you can request an appointment via email. Please include a few dates and times that are convenient for you, along with your full name, date of birth, and telephone number. We will do our best to accommodate your request.

Missed Appointments

We do not “double-book” appointments, as we value your time and aim to be ready for you at your scheduled time. However, we kindly ask for 24 hours’ notice if you are unable to attend your appointment. If you fail to provide this notice on two occasions, we reserve the right to deregister you, as we could have offered your appointment time to another patient in need of care.
As an NHS practice, we are unable to charge for missed or short-notice cancelled appointments. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in adhering to our policy, helping us serve all our patients efficiently.

Attendance policy

FTA policy

TO BOOK NHS APPOITMENT PLEASE CALL OR E-MAIL US DIRECTLY.

Booking private appointments

To arrange a private appointment, please call us directly or use the online booking facility below. For private appointments booked online, we kindly request full payment in advance. Please note that this payment is non-refundable in the event of a missed or unattended appointment.
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Hygiene Appointment

A hygienist can professionally clean your teeth above and below the gum, commonly known as scaling and polishing. Once plaque hardens, it becomes tartar. Tartar can only be removed by a hygienist, using specialist equipment.
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Emergency Advice –
Toothache and abscess

Toothache caused by decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down food particles and sugars, forming plaque that sticks to the teeth. Over time, if plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar and can create cavities in the tooth enamel. As the cavity deepens, it exposes the sensitive inner tissues of the tooth, known as the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. This leads to pain, especially when chewing, drinking hot or cold beverages, or eating sweet foods. The severity of the toothache can vary depending on the extent of the decay. If left untreated, the decay can spread, leading to a more serious infection and potentially a dental abscess.

A dental abscess is a painful, pus-filled infection that typically forms at the root of a tooth or in the gums. It is most commonly caused by untreated tooth decay, where bacteria invade the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) and lead to infection. The abscess can cause intense, throbbing pain, and in some cases, the infection can spread to the jawbone or surrounding tissues, leading to more serious complications. An abscess can also occur as a result of gum disease, where bacteria infect the tissues surrounding the tooth root, creating a periodontal abscess. Symptoms of an abscess include severe pain, swelling, redness, and a visible gum boil that may discharge pus.

Toothache and Abscess Treatment

Treatment for toothache and abscesses depends on the underlying cause of the pain and the severity of the infection. For toothaches caused by cavities or decay, the first step is to address the source of the problem. A dentist will typically clean out the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the cavity to restore the tooth’s structure and prevent further damage. If the decay has reached the pulp, a root canal may be necessary to remove the infected tissue, followed by sealing the tooth to prevent reinfection.

In the case of a dental abscess, treatment is more urgent. The dentist will usually drain the pus from the abscess to relieve pressure and reduce pain. If the abscess is deep within the tooth, a root canal may also be needed to remove the infected pulp and seal the tooth. In more severe cases, if the tooth is too damaged to be saved, it may need to be extracted. Antibiotics are often prescribed to help control the infection and prevent it from spreading to other areas of the mouth or body. Pain relief, often in the form of over-the-counter painkillers or prescribed medication, may also be recommended to manage discomfort during the healing process.

If you experience persistent tooth pain, swelling, or a visible abscess, it’s important to seek dental care as soon as possible. Early treatment can prevent complications and help maintain your overall oral health.

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Broken or Lost Filling

The mouth is a challenging environment for dental work, subject to constant pressure from chewing, bacterial attacks from plaque, and fluctuations in temperature. As a result, even the most durable fillings can wear down or become damaged over time and may need to be replaced.

If a filling comes loose or falls out, it’s important to replace it as soon as possible to prevent further tooth decay and avoid more complex issues. However, if the filling comes out during a weekend or holiday, and you’re not experiencing pain, there’s no need to panic. While it’s always best to make an appointment as soon as you can, if the tooth is not painful, it can usually wait until you’re able to see a dentist. That said, the tooth may become sensitive to hot, cold, or sugary foods, as the deeper layers of the tooth are now exposed. Additionally, the rough edges of the tooth can irritate the tongue or cheek, leading to discomfort or sores in the mouth.

If you’re unable to visit the dentist right away and are dealing with sensitivity or irritation, an emergency temporary filling material, available at most pharmacies, can help protect the tooth and soothe discomfort until you’re able to have the filling properly replaced.

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Lost Crown/Bridge

A well-crafted crown or bridge can significantly extend the life of a damaged tooth. However, over time, the cement seal that holds the crown or bridge in place can fail, causing it to loosen or fall out. When this happens, you may find that the inside of the crown is empty, with only remnants of the cement. If the inside of the crown is still filled, this may indicate a fracture in the underlying tooth, meaning the crown cannot be re-cemented. In such cases, a new crown can likely be made after rebuilding the tooth’s core.

If your crown comes loose, be careful not to swallow it, as retrieving it can be difficult. If the crown is still partially attached, it could mean that the root filling or post underneath has failed. In some cases, this can be resolved with re-cementation, depending on the fit of the crown and post.

It’s important to visit the dentist as soon as you notice any movement in a crown or bridge. If left untreated, even slight movement can allow bacteria to enter the tooth, leading to decay. This can significantly reduce the likelihood of a successful re-cementation. In some cases, the issue may not be with the crown itself but with the tooth becoming loose due to gum disease, which affects the bone attachment. A dentist can easily distinguish between a loose crown and a loose tooth during an examination.

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Dental Injuries:
What to Do in case of dental Emergency

Dental injuries can vary in severity, but there are four main categories to consider when addressing tooth trauma:

1. Tooth Completely Dislodged from the Socket

If a tooth is knocked out due to a strong impact, it is critical to act quickly. The sooner the tooth is reimplanted, the better the chances of saving it. If the tooth is out of the mouth for more than 5 minutes, it must be kept moist to protect the delicate cells. Ideally, place the tooth back into its socket immediately. If that’s not possible, store the tooth in cold milk or keep it in your mouth under your tongue. Avoid touching the tooth’s root or scrubbing it. Gently rinse the tooth with milk, saline, or sterile water and attempt reimplantation. Once in place, bite down on a clean cloth to hold it firmly and seek dental care immediately. The tooth will typically need splinting for 7-10 days and may require antibiotics or tetanus prophylaxis, depending on the situation.

2. Tooth Displaced but Still in the Socket

If a tooth has been displaced but remains in its socket, the priority is to reposition it and stabilize it to prevent further damage to the tooth’s nerves and blood supply. Timing is crucial for the best chance of survival. The displaced tooth may require long-term follow-up with X-rays, and if the nerve or blood supply is damaged, root canal treatment may be necessary.

3. Fractured Crown or Tooth

A fracture involving the crown of the tooth can affect the enamel, dentin, or pulp (nerve) of the tooth. If the fracture is minor and the pulp is unaffected, the tooth can usually be restored with a composite filling. However, if the pulp is exposed, treatment will depend on the extent of the exposure. The nerve may need to be treated, but even if the nerve is removed, the tooth can often be restored.

4. Root Fracture

Root fractures may not always be visible, as the tooth may appear normal or slightly mobile. Multiple dental X-rays are often needed to assess the severity of the fracture. Some root fractures may require immobilization, and prompt treatment is essential to increase the chances of successful healing and tooth survival.

Tooth Extraction:
Post-Operative Care

Following a tooth extraction, it’s important to follow specific instructions to ensure proper healing:

Rinsing:

Do not rinse or swill your mouth for the first 3 days after the extraction. This could dislodge the blood clot, delay healing, and cause further bleeding.

Eating & Drinking:

Once the anaesthetic wears off (usually after 2-3 hours), you can eat and drink. Start with soft foods to avoid irritating the wound. While the area remains numb, be careful not to accidentally bite your lips or tongue.

Pain Relief:

For pain management, over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can be helpful. Ibuprofen is especially beneficial due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Avoid aspirin-based painkillers, as they can increase bleeding. Be sure to check the medication labels for suitability and any allergies you may have. Applying a cold pack to the area can help reduce pain and swelling. Avoid smoking, as it can slow healing and increase the risk of infection.

Bleeding:

It’s normal to experience minor bleeding for the first 24 hours. If heavy bleeding occurs, apply pressure by biting down on a clean cloth for 15-30 minutes. Repeat if necessary. Avoid disturbing the clot as it forms.

Increasing Pain or Dry Socket:

If pain increases after 2-3 days, combined with a foul taste in your mouth, you may have developed a “dry socket.” This occurs when the blood clot fails to form properly, leaving the bone exposed and vulnerable to infection. Dry sockets are extremely painful and require prompt treatment. Contact the dental office immediately for pain relief and antibiotics.

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Our Location

Why Choose Dentapoole?

Convenient Location Our practice is ideally situated near Asda in Canford Heath, Poole, with ample parking and easy accessibility by public transport. We’re proud to serve patients from Poole, Bournemouth, Broadstone, Wimborne, and surrounding areas, making top- quality dental care convenient for our wider community.   Family-Run, Patient-Focused Care Since 2007, Neighbourhood Centre Dental Practice has been a trusted, family-run clinic, dedicated to treating each patient with personal, compassionate care. We strive to make every visit comfortable, prioritising patient well-being above all.   Modern, State-of-the-Art Facility In 2014, we moved to a contemporary, purpose-built facility, officially opened by Mid Dorset and North Poole MP Annette Brooke. Our modern clinic is designed to provide both comfort and the latest dental technology, enhancing every aspect of the patient experience.   Comprehensive NHS and Private Services With approximately 85% of our services dedicated to NHS patients, we’re committed to making high-quality dental care accessible to everyone. We also provide a wide array of private treatments, from routine check-ups to advanced cosmetic and restorative procedures.   Affordable Private Treatments and Practice Plan Options Understanding the importance of affordable dental care, we provide cost-effective private treatment options. Additionally, we offer Practice payment plans, allowing you to spread the cost of your dental care through manageable monthly payments. This ensures you receive the necessary treatments without financial strain.   Experienced, Caring Team Our skilled and friendly dental team is passionate about helping you achieve optimal oral health in a supportive and welcoming environment. With expertise across various treatments—including teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, and facial aesthetics—our team is here to help you achieve the smile you desire with confidence.   Flexible Appointments and Accessibility We understand the demands of modern life, and our practice offers flexible scheduling options to make it easier for you to access the care you need. We invite you to experience our commitment to quality dental care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and discover why so many in Canford Heath and beyond trust us with their dental health. At Neighbourhood Centre Dental Practice, we’re here to support you every step of the way!