Kilcullen Dental Information
Naas, Road, Kilcullen.
P: 045 480816
E: info@kilcullendental.ie
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About
In our state of the art surgery at Mountain View, Naas Road, Kilcullen, Dr Gary Collins and Dr Rachel Andree provide each patient with thorough, experienced and gentle care and cater for all patient needs, from a child’s first visit to a patient’s cosmetic smile makeover.
We offer expertise and experienced care in all aspects of dentistry, from cosmetic procedures designed to help you achieve the perfect smile, through general and restorative dentistry to ensure you have healthy and strong teeth, to preventative care for the whole family.
Dr Collins and Dr Andree are supported by a dedicated and caring team who ensure that your visit will always be relaxing, gentle and comfortable. We take a personalised approach so that we can understand your needs and help you achieve your goals.
Our orthodontist, Dr Geraldine Dooley, provides all orthodontics, including all clear braces.
Our team creates natural, beautiful and healthy smiles every day using the latest technology available in dentistry and best practice techniques.
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Our people
DENTISTS
Dr Gary Collins
Dr Rachel Andree
ORTHODONTICS
Dr Geraldine Dooley
HYGIENIST
Deirdre White
RECEPTION & NURSING STAFF
Laura Callaghan
Bridget Gahan
Edel Cullen
Georgina Mihic
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New to the area?
Looking for a trusted, experienced local dentist? Seeking pain-free dentistry and all orthodontics? Needing cosmetic dentistry expertise for a beautiful, natural-looking smile?
We welcome new patients and look forward to caring for all your dental needs — from general and restorative dentistry through to cosmetic makeovers and implants. All orthodontics are carried out, including invisalign.
We specialise in pain-free dentistry, and we care for patients anxious or phobic about treatment to ensure a positive, comfortable and painless dental experience.
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General Information
Our dental practice in Kilcullen has been designed for your comfort and peace of mind. Each staff member will do their very best to help you and make every effort to be sure you have a pleasant visit with us. We work to the highest standards to ensure you get the best possible dental experience.
Most treatment only requires a few visits. We aim to see all our patients on time, but if we are running late we will inform you.
During your first visit to our practice we will spend some time reviewing your past medical history and past dental history. We will also discuss your concerns and requirements for dental care. Then we will thoroughly examine your dental condition.
This consists of checking every surface of each tooth, an assessment of your gum (periodontal) condition, examination of your ‘oral mucosa’ (lips, cheek, palate, tongue) and we will carry out an oral cancer screen. It is usually standard to take dental x-rays also, to adequately diagnose any dental problems. In some situations, moulds of your teeth may be required, as well as photographs.
After the examination, we will discuss what treatment is required and answer any questions you may have. Prior to undertaking any treatment we will discuss with you different treatment options and associated costs.
If you believe you are covered by PRSI we will ask the Department of Social Protection for confirmation (this usually takes a day or two). However the PRSI scheme will only cover one check-up a year. It does not contribute to any cleaning, fillings or extractions.
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Treatments & Services
The full range of treatments and services offered at the practice are listed below. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone or email.
New Patient Examination Includes examination of all tooth surfaces, oral cancer screen, examination of gum condition, relevant x-rays, models of teeth (if required) and treatment plan formulation.
Existing Patient Examination As above, but x-rays only required if problems are obvious. Gum condition screened.
Fissure Sealants Seals the crevices in teeth to prevent further tooth decay.
Fillings White fillings and standard restorations of tooth cavities. Standard mercury fillings can also be replaced with more modern white fillings.
Root Fillings Cleaning and filling the nerve space in the roots of teeth if the nerve ‘dies’ or has decay within it, so the nerve cannot get infected further.
Crowns Protect weak teeth from fracturing. This is often required on back teeth that have been root filled as they are generally weaker teeth.
Bridges Bridges are provided to replace a gap or gaps between teeth. As they are fixed to the teeth adjacent to the gap, they do not have to be removed. Bridges are either ‘conventional’ or ‘adhesive’.
Dentures These are provided to replace missing teeth in the mouth a traditional ‘plate’. They can be constructed of acrylic or metal. As they are not fixed to teeth they can move and must be removed to clean them and prior to going to bed.
Implants These are titanium fixtures that are inserted under the gums in the jaw bone. They form a strong union to the underlying bone and hence are ‘fixed’. Attached to the implants are crowns or bridges or dentures. They are very successful and have fast emerged as a popular way to replace missing teeth.
Full Mouth Reconstruction This is the rebuilding of all the teeth in the mouth, usually with a combination of crowns and restorations for those dentitions that are severely destroyed by dental disease.
Cosmetic Bonding ‘Composite’ material (white filling material) is bonded to the tooth to reshape it or change its size. Sometimes it is useful to close a gap between teeth also.
Veneers These are thin facings made of either porcelain or composite (made by a laboratory) that are bonded to the natural tooth in order to change their appearance.
Ceramic Crowns Modern crowns can now be constructed made entirely of hard ceramic with no underlying metal. This gives a more natural appearance to the tooth with no ‘black margin’ showing.
Bleaching/Whitening Special trays are made to fit over the teeth. Into these trays a bleach material is placed and then the trays are worn over the teeth for two weeks. the teeth usually dramatically lighten in colour by several shades. There are also several techniques to lighten teeth that have become dark due to root fillings.
A full dental hygienist service is run at the practice to help maintain the health of the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth.Often a scale and polish twice a year is sufficient.For more advanced gum disease (periodontal disease) a course of deep cleaning may be recommended (root debridement and curettage). This may be the only way to reduce the inflammation of the gums.
Children usually require examinations twice a year to monitor their developing dentition and assess whether braces may be required. A full service of fillings and fissure sealants is provided by the practice where necessary.
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FAQ
We’ve put together a list of common questions we get asked at the practice. If the answer to your question isn’t here then please call or email us.
What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is the art and science of designing wonderful smiles. It involves all aspects of general dentistry with a special emphasis to ensure that the individual teeth, as well as the smile, look their very best.
Should I consider cosmetic dentistry?
Look carefully at your smile. If you feel it could be better, you should consider cosmetic dentistry. Having a beautiful smile goes deeper than appearances. It gives you confidence. It will give you an edge in your everyday activities, improving your professional and personal image.
What types of problems does cosmetic dentistry solve?
If your teeth are dark or worn and make you look older, if gaps or chips make you feel self-conscious, or if crooked or discoloured teeth stop you from smiling fully, cosmetic dentistry can help. The negative effects of abnormal gum tissue or out-of-date dental treatment are also problems that can be corrected with cosmetic dentistry.
If I require fillings which type should I get?
Silver (amalgam) and gold were used extensively in the past. Today tooth coloured porcelain or composite materials that are strong and extremely wear resistant are the material of choice. You can even give your teeth a ‘face lift’ by removing your old metal fillings and replacing them with ‘invisible’ ones. Ask our advice on this.
What is plaque and how does it affect my teeth?
Plaque is a colourless, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. If left undisturbed, the bacteria in the plaque produces byproducts that can not only irritate the gums and make them bleed, but can also lead to periodontal disease. A daily regimen of proper brushing, flossing and rinsing (plus regular dental visits) will help you keep your teeth healthy.
My gums bleed when I brush or floss. Is this normal?
Healthy gum tissue does not bleed. This is most likely a sign of early gingivitis. If you experience bleeding gums, see us to review proper brushing and flossing techniques. Also schedule a soft tissue evaluation and prophylactic cleaning. Gum bleeding must be taken seriously because, if left untreated, it will lead to periodontal disease.
How often should I have my teeth professionally cleaned?
People accumulate plaque at different rates. Normally every 6 months is sufficient.
What is “tartar” or calculus and how can I control it?
Tartar is ‘hardened plaque’ that has been left undisturbed. It is a black, solidified protein layer at the gum line that can only be removed safely with a dental scaling instrument during hygiene cleaning. The best way to control tartar is to brush and floss everyday.
Why should I spend a lot of money on root canal? Why not just pull the tooth out?
Losing a tooth can be the beginning of many more lost teeth. Saving the tooth maintains space, keeps other teeth from shifting, and eliminates the need and cost of a bridge or an implant. Although seemingly expensive, it is actually quite cost effective.
Will whitening my teeth hurt me or cause any damage?
No. Tooth whitening is a dental procedure that has been continually improved over time. It is completely safe and a very conservative treatment.
Do I need to have my wisdom teeth removed?
Your wisdom teeth need only be removed if they are causing continual bouts of infection, or if they are so badly decayed that they cannot be saved, or are so difficult to clean that they are causing decay to the tooth in front. Generally, we now avoid removing wisdom teeth if none of the above factors exist.
Do you offer a hygienist service?
A full hygienist service is run at the practice to help maintain the health of the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth. Often a scale and polish twice a year is sufficient. For more advanced gum disease (periodontal disease) a course of deep cleaning may be recommended (root debridement and curettage).
Do you see children at the practice?
We welcome children at any age. We would recommend that children come from at least three years of age to get them used to the dentists.
Do you see patients who hold a Medical Card?
Yes, we see all patients requiring dental treatment. This includes patients holding a current valid medical card.
Do you treat nervous patients?
At Kilcullen Dental, we do our upmost to make your appointment as stress-free and as relaxed as possible. If you are nervous, discuss this with the dentist so that he can reassure you of what steps can be taken to put you at your ease.
How can I change my appointment?
You can change your appointment by phoning the practice on 045 480816, or by e-mailing the practice at info@kilcullendental.ie.
How do I make an enquiry about my dental condition?
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your oral health or condition, you may e-mail, write to, or phone the practice. Our staff will be able to answer your questions, without you necessarily having to attend for an examination. Our advice is free, so don’t hesitate in contacting us. Of course, there may be some questions we cannot answer without seeing you, and so an examination would then be necessary.
How much will my treatment cost and can I get treatment under the PRSI scheme?
We offer a transparent pricing scheme and always give a printed estimate for any treatment required. Our prices are competitive and represent excellent value for money.
We do operate the PRSI scheme. This allows you one free dental examination each year. Please inform us of your PRSI number prior to your first appointment so we can check with Social Protection that you qualify for treatment under the PRSI scheme.
How often do I need to see the dentist or hygienist?
Usually it is wise to see the dentist at least once a year. However, you may be asked to come in twice a year if your oral condition warrants it. This also applies to appointments with the hygienist, although some patients may be recommended more frequent appointments.
What do I do if I have a dental emergency?
Contact the practice as soon as possible so that we can see you swiftly. We normally hold ’emergency slots’ within each working day for this purpose. The earlier you contact the practice, the easier it will be to see you at a time that suits you best.
What happens if I miss an appointment?
If you realise that you have missed an appointment contact the practice so that the appointment can be rearranged. If you are aware that you will not be able to keep an appointment please let us know so that your appointment can be given to someone who would like to be seen soon. Failure to cancel an appointment may result in a charge.
