blog

£20 for 20

Thu, 10 May 2012 12:58:01 +0000

Bringing a Smile to Highworth

National Smile Month is coming to Swindon, as Highworth Dental Care will be holding a special event to back the national campaign.

To show their support, the team from Highworth Dental Care in Highworth will be holding a £20 Smile Assessment clinic on Tuesday 12^th June 2012 between 11.00am and 12.30pm that aims to put the smile into National Smile Month. In opening their doors to the public, the team hope to raise awareness of how important oral health is.

Practice principal, Dr Siobhan Owen from Highworth Dental Care said: “National Smile Month is an excellent opportunity to remind people that good oral health is vital for a healthy smile as well as a healthy body, and we’ll be spreading that message at our Smile Assessment clinic.”

The Foundation’s Chief Executive Dr Nigel Carter said: “I’m delighted that Highworth Dental Care has joined the many schools, colleges, health professionals and other dental practices in engaging with National Smile Month. It is a great reflection of local community spirit and an excellent way to promote good oral health.”

“Taking place from 20 May to 20 June, the campaign is an ideal opportunity to learn about oral health in a fun and positive way. We hope it will inspire more people to join in the fun than ever before while delivering the Foundation’s three key messages for good oral health of brush for two minutes twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, cut down on how often you have sugary foods and drinks and visit the dentist regularly – as often as they recommend.”

Please call Highworth Dental Care on 01793 762231 or email reception@highworthdental.co.uk to book your 20 minute session. Your 20 minute £20 assessment will be divided into two 10 minute sessions – the first 10 minutes with one of our dentists, followed by 10 minutes with one of our team co-ordinators.

For more information please visit www.smilemonth.org

National Smile Month to offer free 'Smileline' service!

Thu, 10 May 2012 12:50:33 +0000

Courtesy of the National Smile Month campaign http://www.nationalsmilemonth.org/page/smileline

"As part of National Smile Month, we are launching a new dental helpline service in May, called‘Smileline’, to help improve oral health in the workplace. The service is free and will provide employers and employees with essential information on how to maintain good oral health!

We already have over 15 years’ experience of providing Helpline services and our team of trained dental nurses are able to offer employers and employees some of the best impartial and independent dental advice available in the UK.

We hope employers will incorporate ‘Smileline’ into their occupational health schemes, and generally encourage their employees to maintain their all-important oral health.

Our Dental Helpline, staffed by fully trained oral health experts and dental nurses, has taken more than 300,000 calls since its formation a little over a decade ago.

We can help employers and employees on subjects such as dental terms and treatment procedures, oral hygiene, current UK legislation and regulations, NHS and private dental charges, complaints procedures, and referrals to other organisations.

Go online

Our website at www.dentalhealth.org is the UK’s leading independent dental health website. Our easy to read ‘Tell Me About’ section offers comprehensive information and advice on all aspects of oral health including children’s teeth, cosmetic treatments, diet, gum disease, dentures and treatments. In fact everything you need to know about your oral health.

By phone

Our free National Dental Helpline is staffed by fully trained oral health experts and dental nurses and helps thousands of people each week. Our qualified team are on hand to help with essential information such as explaining dental terms and treatment procedures, the best way to maintain oral hygiene, current UK legislation and regulations, NHS and private dental charges and complaints procedures. Call on 0845 063 1188 (local rate call in the UK), 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

E-mail

If you prefer to receive information and advice in writing, you can also contact the Foundation by e-mail at helpline@dentalhealth.org. Our dental experts will respond to you as soon as possible and ensure you have all the information you need."

Medenta – The affordable way to pay for your dental treatment

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 11:02:27 +0000

Are you one of the thousands of patients considering cosmetic, aesthetic, and orthodontic or dental implant work? If so, you might be interested in a service that we provide at Highworth Dental Care in Swindon - interest-free and low cost payment plans to fund your treatment.

Our range of facilities is an innovative and potentially much more affordable alternative to traditional options. This enables you to get the treatment you want - the right treatment - and you can pay for it over an appropriate period. Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? Here’s how it works...

Interest-free and low cost payment plans - Q&A

Anything else you’d like to know? Please ask a member of our practice team.

Who can benefit?

Just about anyone over the age of 18. You don’t have to belong to a private plan.You don’t even have to be a regular visitor at this practice.

What can I use them for?

You can use the payment plans to pay for most treatment, but they’re particularly suited to more costly private treatments such as cosmetic, aesthetic, orthodontic or dental implant work. If you’re not sure whether they’re right for your treatment, please ask your dentist.

How much can I borrow?

Typically you can borrow between £350 and £50,000. This will be subject to an ‘on- site’ credit application. Most patients’ applications are approved there and then, so you can go ahead and schedule treatment immediately.

How do I make the repayments?

Much like any other loan facility, you repay them in affordable monthly payments over an agreed term. Payments will be collected by Direct Debit.

How much will I pay?

With our Medenta 0% APR Representative facility you pay the cost of your treatment - no more and no less. Interest-free means just that! We provide you with a quotation that shows the monthly payment and the total interest payable over the term of the loan. There are no hidden costs and no deposit is required.

What are the repayment terms?

Our treatment co-ordinators, Lisa McDonnell and Hannah French, will go through the various terms with you and agree the most suitable repayment period.

How do I apply?

Once you’ve agreed on a course of treatment - and a cost - with your dentist, we’ll make the credit application on your behalf. Once approved and processed, you’ll receive written confirmation from the credit provider.

Who is the credit provider?

We’re working with one of the most respected credit providers in the business. Ask our team for details.

What happens if my treatment costs more than planned for?

Firstly, we will tell you of this situation when it becomes imminent. Secondly, you can choose to have an additional facility to cover the additional costs.

What happens if my treatment costs less than planned for?

This will be refunded either to you or to the lender who will then reduce the outstanding balance on your account.

How often can I use the facility?

You can apply for a payment plan for each course of treatment, subject to the usual credit application.

The benefits: at a glance

For anyone considering using our interest-free facility to fund their private treatment, the benefits are:

• You get the treatment you want - treatment that will make you look and feel a million times better

• You get to spread the cost of that treatment over a suitable period

• Interest-free and low cost loans can be a much more affordable alternative to credit cards or bank loans

• It’s easy to apply and simple to repay by Direct Debit

• They’re provided by leading credit suppliers

Examples: Using 0% APR and 7.9% APR Representative rates

Treatment cost	Facility	Term (months)	APR	Monthly payment	Total payment
£1500.00	Interest free	12	0%	£125.00	£1500.00
£1500.00	Low Cost	24	7.9%	£67.59	£1622.16
£3000.00	Low cost	36	7.9%	£93.51	£3366.36

The Magic of the Moment

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 09:14:57 +0000

When is the best time to offer your patient the next opportunity, in other words to upsell your service to improve or enhance their smile? It’s in the magic of the moment. So when is the ideal time to ask?

There are three distinct phases that a patient will move through when attending a dental appointment. These phases are Past, Present and Future. During each phase the thoughts, feelings and actions of your patient will change.

When a patient arrives he/she is in the Past phase. In this phase, he/she may be feeling rushed or agitated due to running late, or he/she will still be in a previous zone i.e. what was happening before the appointment. Do you think that this is a good time to offer an opportunity?

In the Present phase consider how your patient’s thoughts and feelings change. He/she will be calmer; will be listening to you, as you focus your attention on them. From the conversation you have with your patient in this phase i.e. How are you? What is working for you? What are you happy/unhappy with etc. you actually control the level of how much they are in the “zone”. Is now a good time to offer and opportunity?

Your patient is already walking out the door in the Future phase because his/her mind has moved onto the next thing. His/her focus is now on the payment and rebooking procedure. Is this the time?

Let’s take a look at the mind shift through the phases. In the Past phase your patient’s mind is all over the place. In the Present phase your patient’s mind is present. In the Future phase your patient’s mind has left the building.

The most ideal time to offer your patient the next opportunity is in the Present phase. Because you have complete control of how the patient is feeling. Focus on the patient’s individual need via good two way communication, and you will present yourself with the chance to upsell a dental service, which 90% of the time will end with a positive result.

Meet the need, sow the seed.

It is important for both the dentist and the nurse to participate in the conversation during the Present phase. Why? Building a positive rapport will inspire more confidence for the patient. When a conversation flows naturally between the dentist, nurse and patient, the patient included will feel more at ease, as the attention is directly aimed at him/her.

In addition to the Present phase it is vital to continue the in the moment feeling right through to the final conversation your patient shares with your reception team. Your reception team must be fully informed via your treatment plan notes to enhance the opportunity. With knowledge of the next stage of treatment being offered, your reception team can offer dental aids/items to help the patient maintain good oral health prior to the next appointment.

When you implement the magic of the moment approach in your dental practice to upsell your service, you will improve team work and communication, boost the confidence of your patient and your team, enhance the service you offer, and you will build a more profitable business.

Have You Met our Dental Dresser?

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:26:33 +0000

Welcome to the April issue of Show off Your Smile by Highworth Dental Care.

In this issue – Have you Met our Dental Dresser?

Best Wishes
Siobhan and Anna

Why I love being a Dental Therapist?

Hi, I'm Rachel Buckley from Yorkshire. After working as a Dental Nurse and Practice Manager for 11 years, I gained my Dental Hygienist & Therapist qualification from Sheffield Dental University in 2011. My aim is to provide the best possible experience and treatment, especially to help patients overcome fears and phobias (both children and adults) and I love to see the difference in their confidence and attitudes.

What do I offer:

all treatments on children - deciduous teeth, fillings, pulpotamies (very deep fillings), extractions, preventative topical fluoride application, fissure sealants and x rays
oral health education such as brushing techniques and diet advice
routine restorations on permanent teeth (adults and children)
take impressions and temporarily replace crowns

How do I enhance the service at HDC?

Committed to reducing the caries rate in children, I believe that preventative treatment, as a key part of my role, is a great minimally invasive way of introducing children to the dental “treatment” environment.

And the Winner is...

Thank you to all the patients who took part in the survey during March. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and it will help us continue to deliver excellent and high quality customer care.

The winner of the Sonicare Electric Toothbrush (worth £120) is Mandie Olive.

Here are the top 5 improvement suggestions:

1. To allow patients to meet all dentists and decide who they would like to care for them.

2. Free child appointments for adult patients. (We offerFREE check ups for children under 12 years old - click here to find out more)

3. Provide a coffee station

4. Different videos in the waiting room

5. Nothing - already a good, friendly practice!

It's A Boy!

Congratulations to our lovely dental nurse Julie Baylies and her partner Matt on the birth of their first son, Thomas Xavier Carr, weight 7lb 11oz, who was born on February 24th.

Nappy Days!!

In the next issue…

From May 20th to June 20th, it's National Smile Month! We've been getting into the spirit of things with our team Smileys! Take a look at our Happy gallery on Facebook

DID YOU KNOW?

Established in England in 1917, ‘Dental Dressers’ were the first dental therapists in the world.

In 1920 New Zealand established a School Dental Service and the training of Dental Therapists (known then as Dental Nurses) began.

Since July 2002, legislation permits a Dental Therapist to work in any sector of dentistry.

Delicious Dental Offers Available Now @ HDC!

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 12:18:32 +0000

Free Check-Ups for Children Under 12 Years

(When accompanying a parent to a scheduled appointment)

For NEW patients, book an Adult Examination for £40.00 and your son or daughter (under 12 years old) will receive free check-ups.

Appointments must be made for the same day.

EXISTING patients please call 01793 762231.

Treatments available on Tuesday afternoons from March 27th onwards (except April 10th), between 3.30 – 6.00pm; following an initial check-up with a dentist.

To book, come in and speak to one of our friendly team.

Open Early Mornings from 8.00am, Late Evenings until 6.45pm, and Alternate Saturdays until 2pm.

Highworth Dental

Free Check-Ups for Children Under 12 Years

(When accompanying a parent to a scheduled appointment)

For NEW patients, book an Adult Examination for £40.00 and your son or daughter (under 12 years old) will receive free check-ups.

Appointments must be made for the same day.

EXISTING patients please call 01793 762231

Treatments available on Tuesday afternoons from March 27th onwards (except April 10th), between 3.30 – 6.00pm; following an initial check-up with a dentist.

New Patient Examination for £40.00

What’s Included:

• 45 Minute Review with a Dentist

• Full Clinical Examination

• Any Necessary X-rays

• Review of your Dental History

• Treatment Options Discussion

• Your Own Smile Wishlist

• Available Finance Options

To book, call 01793 762231 or email reception@highworthdental.co.uk

Open Early Mornings from 8.00am, Late Evenings until 6.45pm, and Alternate Saturdays until 2pm.

Do You Know How to Clean Your Teeth While You Eat?

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 13:53:11 +0000

Educating you about effective ways to maintain healthy teeth and gums is what your dentist offers, so you can keep your smile in the best shape. From regular routine appointments and treatments where necessary, your dentist is able to assess and administer the most suitable dental care for you. However in between your regular visits you too can help look after your teeth and gums. Did you know that it’s the food (well some of it) that you eat, that actually has good oral health benefits?

Today we found this great booklet written by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) which promotes oral friendly meal ideas filled with healthy ingredients to protect your teeth and gums against nasty bacteria.

Here’s a taste of a few of their “super-smile” ingredients:

Broccoli can help prevent enamel erosion
Lemon is a “natural” whitener
Himalayan and Celtic sea salt can strengthen teeth
Salsa helps to massage the gums, stimulate saliva, and scrub your teeth
Wasabi can prevent cavities

Start shopping for healthy smile boosting foods today and take care of your teeth & gums for life!

Why Do Patients Stay with a Private Dental Practice?

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 16:20:11 +0000

The continued success and growth of a dental practice depends on one thing: to meet the needs of you, the patient. When your needs are met, what happens? You become a loyal customer who is happy to recommend our practice to your family, friends and business colleagues.

Here are 5 reasons why we believe patients stay loyal to Highworth Dental Care:

1. We are friendly and helpful. We listen to and address any concerns raised by you.

2. We provide a relaxed atmosphere to help our anxious patients feel more comfortable if they have a fear of dental procedures.

3. We keep you informed with updates about what’s going on at the practice and any pricing/services changes, via mail, email, or our website.

4. We provide access to convenient appointment times; we are open early mornings from 8.30am, late evenings until 6.45pm & from 9am – 2pm on alternate Saturdays.

5. We provide a selection of dental payment plan and finance options such as Denplan and Medenta – keeping dental costs affordable.

Keep It Simple

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 12:11:31 +0000

When it comes to marketing your business message there is proof in the pudding that keeping it simple does work. Today we came across this very clever marketing campaign from a dental practice in Australia. So let’s take a look at what makes this campaign work.

Firstly the message is perfectly clear. It says this is about cosmetic and implant dentistry. The message immediately engages with the reader through the use of everyday and familiar items. Secondly the creative imagery around the concept of a missing or blackened tooth stands out and represents the “gap” stopping you from achieving a truly beautiful smile.

Keep your marketing strategy simple you and you set a clear and defined standard for your target audience. That way your existing and prospective patients become and remain engaged on a consistent basis. In effect you will begin to pull your patients toward your business via the development of a “loyalty” attitude rather than having to push your sales onto them. This simplistic approach can help to drive a better retention rate of patients, in turn building the reputation of your practice.

Adopting an effective style of sharing your business message will also add value to your offering. Your audience will have their own perception of the value you can add to their relationship with you. Value builds loyalty. Loyalty builds trust. Trust builds reputation.

So the KISS technique continues to shine. KISS far outweighs the creation of complex marketing messages that can be misunderstood or overly sold to attract new business. Keeping it simple, simply keeps it successful!

Take Care of Your Teeth, Take Care of Your Heart

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 16:06:41 +0000

Your Mouth is Connected to Your Whole Body

Throughout February the National Heart Month campaign has been promoting a clear message about about how important it is to take care of your heart. The vision of the British Heart Foundation is "a world where people do not die prematurely". With their focus on this vision and with the continued support from you, hearts can be saved when we work together with the BHF.

What is the link between heart disease and your teeth?

Poor oral health may affect or contribute to various diseases and conditions including:

• Endocarditis. Gum disease and dental procedures that cut your gums may allow bacteria to enter your bloodstream which can cause infection in other parts of the body - such as an infection of the inner lining of the heart (endocarditis).

• Cardiovascular disease. Research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke may be linked to oral bacteria, possibly because of chronic inflammation from periodontitis - a severe form of gum disease.

And the Good News...

Results from a seven year study in Taiwan conclude:

good teeth and gum care can reduce the risk of suffering from heart attacks or strokes.
get your teeth cleaned professionally once a year and you lower the risk of suffering from cardiovascular conditions.

Does Missing One Appointment Really Matter?

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:19:36 +0000

Private Dentistry - It may be more affordable than you think

Still feeling the pinch of Christmas bills? Wondering how far your budget will actually stretch? Don't feel that looking after your teeth should be top priority right now, simply because you just can't afford it?

Not looking after your teeth is far worse (and will be more costly in the long term) than being taken care of by your private dentist on a regular basis. So how can your Highworth dentist make it affordable for you?

What are the benefits of private dentistry?

Benefits vary from patient to patient including:

choice of dental treatment and modern dental techniques
more time to spend with your dentist
convenience of appointment times such as early mornings, late evenings and Saturdays
being treated as an important person not simply as a "the next patient".

So would missing one appointment really matter?

Putting off a trip to the dentist is a false economy. Regular visits to the dentist means we can spot any problems early, before you suffer pain or require costly treatment.

Because we understand that the cost of living is rising, did you know there are different ways to pay for your dental care at your Highworth dentist?

Payment Plan 1. Denplan Essentials is ideal for routine treatments such as check-ups, x-rays and hygienist visits.

Payment Plan 2. Medenta 0% APR Finance for 12 months to help spread your payments for high cost treatments over a longer and more affordable period.

Prevention really IS better than cure

With Denplan you can enjoy better oral health, not only now but well into the future. Quite simply, it's all about stopping problems before they start - at any age. Any questions? Contact your Highworth dentist.

Top 10 Tips for a Beautiful Smile

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 16:24:03 +0000

1. There is nothing more beautiful than a white smile. With new techniques such as Zoom© Deep Whitening available, tooth whitening is now easy and convenient. Why not treat yourself to a whiter, brighter smile?

2. Did you know that certain shades of lipstick create the illusion of whiter teeth? Shades of red or plum will make your teeth look whiter than peachy or rusty tones.

3. Whitening toothpaste like Oral B Expert can help get rid of staining and it may over time actually lighten your teeth a little.

4. Invest in a Sonicare multi modal electric toothbrush with superior cleaning for simply whiter, healthier teeth.

5. Did you know that veneers are made of the strongest and most natural looking porcelain available and can correct the shape, size, position and colour of your teeth all at once? Ask your dentist today.

6. Book and attend regular six monthly hygiene appointments (scale and polish) to keep staining, plaque and tartar away. Quiz your hygienist about the best way to keep your breath fresh and teeth clean.

7. Remember to floss between your teeth after every meal to keep your gums healthy and your breath fresh too.

8. Use a mouthwash specifically designed to destroy the bacteria which cause bad breath.

9. Get into the routine of using a tongue cleaner after your brush your teeth. That way you can keep your tongue fuzz free!

10. Always smile! Your gorgeous upward curve will make you feel happy.

The Twelve Days of Dental Tips

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 16:47:05 +0000

At Christmas time don’t you just love to sit back and enjoy your favourite chocolates? We can all enjoy a few sweets treats but spare a thought for your teeth and gums too. Why not give your teeth a lovely gift this year? To help you give your teeth a festive treat here are our 12 days of dental tips:

1. Got toothache? Rinse your mouth, use dental floss to remove any trapped particles, or take pain relief.
2. Avoid brushing your teeth for at least 30 minutes after eating or drinking anything acidic.
3. Watch your sugar intake to stop unnecessary decay.
4. Carry a spare toothbrush and toothpaste.
5. Chew sugar-free gum throughout the day or evening.
6. Like a smooch under the mistletoe? Keep your breath fresh with sugar-free mints.
7. Take a break from drinking champagne or fizzy drinks for long periods of time.
8. Choose healthy crudites or cheese & crackers instead of sweet and sticky snacks.
9. Have a break between nibbles.
10. Avoid crunching down on candy cane or sticky sweets.
11. Broken a tooth? Rinse the area with warm water, keep the broken pieces, reduce any swelling with a cold compress, then visit your dentist as soon as possible.
12. Always brush your teeth before going to bed

Are Cosmetic Dentists Vanity Consultants or Dental Specialists?

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 16:47:49 +0000

How many times do you see perfect teeth and the gleaming white smile of a celebrity in the press? Daily it seems. Does that get you thinking that cosmetic dentistry is only for the rich and famous? Is it only for people who spend their lives in front of the cameras or for those who appear in glossy magazines?

More and more people today consider that a positive first impression is what really counts. For many it IS the difference between achieving or not achieving success. Whether you are attending a job interview or meeting someone new for the first time, making the right first impression is vitally important. No longer it appears, that cosmetic dentistry is just for those who want to look good.

So what is the role of cosmetic dentistry? In principle it is designed to help people with real teeth issues. Consider the the impact on someone who is not happy with how their teeth look. Feeling unhappy about their own appearance can dramatically affect an individual’s confidence and self esteem. Because they don’t feel good about how they look they may even be too embarrassed to smile. How can that affect a first impression?

Want to look and feel great about yourself? Cosmetic dentistry can help you achieve this. The restoration of your beautiful smile will help you become more confident and it will boost your self esteem. Let your smile be the outward reflection of how you feel inside.

Who knows maybe a cosmetic dental specialist holds the key to unlock the door to your happiness?

Do You See the Smile of Your Future?

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 16:47:42 +0000

When you look in the mirror and smile what do you see? Are you happy with your reflection and does it make you feel great about yourself? Or are you someone who avoids looking in the mirror at all?

The reality is that not everyone enjoys looking at themselves in the mirror. Why? Mostly because we as humans will be too quick to find a flaw in our own appearance. Regardless of being told by loved ones and friends that we are beautiful, something inside often blocks this feeling and we tell ourselves that the complete opposite is true.

There are many individual reasons why people avoid spending any time looking at their own reflection. But do you know what this often boils down too? Self esteem. Not self confidence as many say. It’s about limiting beliefs relating to your own lack of self esteem.

So what is the difference between self confidence and self esteem? Self confidence is an outside or external feeling while self esteem is how you feel on the inside. More often than not there is an imbalance between the two. This leads to you feeling unhappy on the inside which directly impacts on how you see yourself on the outside.

How can you improve your self esteem? The first thing you can do is to accept who you are. When you start to believe in yourself you will feel more positive. This will help you take small steps toward improving your self esteem.

To balance your self esteem and self confidence how can you match the feeling on the outside? Have you thought about how you can improve your smile?

One natural reaction to feeling good on the inside is that you will start to smile more often. In turn the more you smile the more confident you will appear. Take your smile one step further by asking your dentist about the cosmetic dentistry services they offer. Find out what suits you and your budget.

Believe in yourself. Smile with confidence. Enhance your smile. Look in the mirror and see the smile of your future.

blog

£20 for 20

National Smile Month to offer free 'Smileline' service!

Medenta – The affordable way to pay for your dental treatment

The Magic of the Moment

Have You Met our Dental Dresser?

Delicious Dental Offers Available Now @ HDC!

**Free Check-Ups for Children Under 12 Years**

**New Patient Examination for £40.00**

To book, call 01793 762231 or email reception@highworthdental.co.uk

Open Early Mornings from 8.00am, Late Evenings until 6.45pm, and Alternate Saturdays until 2pm.

Do You Know How to Clean Your Teeth While You Eat?

Why Do Patients Stay with a Private Dental Practice?

Keep It Simple

Take Care of Your Teeth, Take Care of Your Heart

Does Missing One Appointment Really Matter?

Top 10 Tips for a Beautiful Smile

The Twelve Days of Dental Tips

Are Cosmetic Dentists Vanity Consultants or Dental Specialists?

Do You See the Smile of Your Future?

Free Check-Ups for Children Under 12 Years

New Patient Examination for £40.00