Frequently Asked Questions
Answers from the Trusted Dental Team at Minti Dental Group, Harlow
We know visiting the dentist comes with questions, whether it’s about treatments, pricing or what to expect during your appointment. Below, we’ve compiled answers to the most common questions we hear from patients across The Stow, Church Langley, Newhall, Old Harlow and the surrounding Essex areas.
Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs
1. What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry includes treatments that improve the appearance of your teeth, gums and smile. Common options include teeth whitening, veneers, bonding and full smile makeovers.
2. Can I get cosmetic dentistry in Harlow?
Yes. Both Minti Dental Group practices offer a full range of cosmetic treatments, from whitening and bonding through to veneers and complete smile makeovers.
3. How long does teeth whitening last?
Professional whitening typically lasts 1 to 3 years, depending on your habits. Coffee, tea, red wine and smoking shorten the result, while regular hygiene visits help it last longer. Top-up trays can be used at home to keep your smile bright.
4. Are veneers painful?
No. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic where needed, and most patients report little to no discomfort. Some mild sensitivity for a few days afterwards is normal and usually settles quickly.
5. Can I fix gaps or uneven teeth without braces?
Yes. Composite bonding, veneers and Invisalign clear aligners can all close gaps or improve alignment without traditional metal braces. We'll recommend the best option at your consultation.
7. Can I whiten crowns or veneers?
No. Whitening only works on natural tooth enamel. Crowns, veneers and fillings keep their original shade. If you're planning to whiten, we'll usually do that first and then match any new restorations to your brighter shade.
General Dentistry & Preventive Care FAQs
8. How often should I visit the dentist?
Most people should see the dentist every 6 months. We may recommend more frequent visits depending on your oral health.
9. What happens during a check-up?
A typical check-up includes a full inspection of your teeth, gums and soft tissues, an oral cancer screening, a review of any existing dental work, X-rays where needed, and tailored advice on home care. We'll also discuss any concerns you have.
10. Do I need dental X-rays every time?
No. We only take X-rays when clinically necessary, usually every 1 to 2 years for most adults, or sooner if there's a specific concern.
11. Is fluoride good for my teeth?
Yes. Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent decay. Using a fluoride toothpaste twice a day is one of the simplest, most effective ways to protect your teeth.
12. How do I keep my teeth healthy between visits?
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and don't smoke. Drinking plenty of water and seeing your hygienist regularly also makes a big difference.
Dental Hygiene & Gum Health FAQs
13. What does a hygienist do?
A hygienist removes plaque and tartar build-up, polishes your teeth and helps you maintain healthy gums through tailored advice.
14. How often should I see a hygienist?
Most patients benefit from a hygienist visit every 6 months. If you have gum disease or are prone to build-up, we may recommend visits every 3 to 4 months.
15. What is gum disease?
Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums and the bone supporting your teeth. It starts as gingivitis (mild inflammation) and, if untreated, can progress to periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss.
16. What are the signs of gum disease?
Common signs include bleeding when brushing or flossing, red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession (teeth looking longer) and teeth that feel loose or have shifted.
17. Can gum disease be cured?
Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) is fully reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care. More advanced periodontitis can be controlled and stabilised, although damage to the bone and gum tissue cannot fully heal, which is why early treatment matters.
18. Does scaling and root planing hurt?
No. Deep cleaning is carried out with local anaesthetic where needed, so you'll feel comfortable throughout. Some mild sensitivity for a few days afterwards is normal and usually settles quickly.
Fillings, Crowns & Restorative FAQs
19. What types of fillings do you offer?
We provide white (composite) fillings and silver (amalgam) fillings, depending on the location and needs of the tooth.
20. Do white fillings last as long as silver ones?
Modern composite fillings are very durable and, in most cases, last just as long as amalgam, particularly with good home care and regular check-ups. They're also more discreet, which is why most patients now choose them.
21. What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength and appearance. Crowns can be made from porcelain, ceramic, metal or a combination.
22. How long do crowns last?
Most crowns last 10 to 15 years, sometimes longer, with proper care and maintenance.
23. Is the crown procedure painful?
No. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn't feel any pain. Some mild sensitivity in the days afterwards is normal and usually settles on its own.
24. Can I replace an old crown?
Yes. If your existing crown is loose, chipped, worn or discoloured, we can carefully remove it and fit a new one using modern materials for a refreshed look and feel.
Dental Bridges & Missing Teeth
25. What is a dental bridge?
A bridge is a fixed replacement for one or more missing teeth. It uses surrounding teeth for support.
26. Is a bridge better than a denture?
Both are good options and the right choice depends on your case. Bridges are fixed in place and feel more like natural teeth, while dentures are removable and typically more affordable. Dental implants are also worth considering as a long-term alternative to both.
27. Can I eat normally with a bridge?
Yes. Once your bridge is fitted and your bite has settled, you can eat most of your usual foods. We'll give you advice on cleaning around and underneath the bridge to keep it in good condition.
Dentures FAQs
28. What types of dentures do you offer?
We provide both full and partial dentures, custom-made for comfort and appearance.
29. Do modern dentures look natural?
Yes. Today's dentures are lighter, more discreet and far more lifelike than older designs. They're carefully shaped and shaded to match your face and natural teeth.
30. Can I sleep with my dentures in?
We don't recommend it. Removing your dentures overnight gives your gums a chance to rest and helps prevent infection. Soak them in a denture cleaning solution while you sleep.
Dental Implant FAQs
31. Are dental implants available in Harlow?
Yes. We offer full implant care at Minti Dental Group, including single tooth replacements, multiple implants and full arch solutions like All-on-4.
32. What are implants made of?
Dental implants are made from medical-grade titanium, a biocompatible metal that fuses with the jawbone. The visible tooth on top is usually a porcelain or ceramic crown.
33. How long does an implant take?
From initial consultation to the final restoration, treatment typically takes 3 to 6 months. This includes the healing period needed for the implant to fuse with the bone. Some cases may suit same-day "teeth in a day" solutions, which we'll discuss at your consultation.
34. Do implants feel like real teeth?
Yes. Once the implant has integrated and the crown is fitted, most patients say it feels just like a natural tooth, with the same biting strength and comfort.
Nervous Patients
35. I am anxious about going to the dentist. Can you help?
Yes. We offer a calm, patient-first approach and take time to make sure you feel comfortable.
36. Will I be told what is happening during treatment?
Absolutely. We talk you through every step in plain English, agree signals so you can pause at any time, and never rush you. Many of our nervous patients say the experience is far easier than they expected.
37. Can I bring someone with me?
Of course. You're welcome to bring a friend or family member to your appointment for support.
Children's Dentistry FAQs
38. When should I take my child to the dentist?
We recommend bringing your child by age one or as soon as their first tooth comes in.
39. Do you offer fluoride for children?
Yes. We apply fluoride varnish for children at routine check-ups to help strengthen their developing teeth and reduce the risk of decay. It's quick, painless and very effective.
40. Can children get white fillings?
Yes. White composite fillings are a great option for children's teeth, blending in naturally and avoiding the look of metal.
Emergency & Urgent Care
41. Do you offer emergency dental appointments in Harlow?
Yes. We reserve slots for urgent dental issues such as pain, swelling or broken teeth. Call us as early as possible.
42. What counts as a dental emergency?
Severe toothache, facial swelling, a knocked-out or broken tooth, a lost crown or filling causing pain, or any dental injury after an accident. If you're unsure, call us and we'll help you decide if you need to come in straight away.
Emergency & Urgent Care
43. Do you offer dental finance or payment plans?
Yes. We provide flexible payment options for private treatments. Ask our team for details.
44. How much is a check-up?
A private routine examination is £38, or £45 for a new patient consultation. NHS check-ups are charged at the standard Band 1 rate of £27.90 (subject to NHS availability and eligibility).
45. Do you take NHS patients?
Yes. Both Minti Dental Group practices accept NHS patients where eligible, subject to availability. Get in touch to check whether we have NHS spaces open at your preferred practice.
46. Can I switch to your practice?
Of course. Just let us know your previous practice and we can request your records. Your first visit with us will be a fresh examination so we can get to know your mouth properly.
47. Is there parking available?
Yes. **Nuffield Dental Practice** (110-111 The Stow) shares free parking with Tesco. **Church Langley Dental** (Florence Nightingale Health Centre) has free patient parking on site.
48. Are you wheelchair accessible?
Both practices welcome wheelchair users. If you have specific access needs, please let our team know when booking and we'll make sure everything is set up for your visit.