Hook Dental - Caring dentistry for all the family, Hook in Hampshire

Below are answers to some Frequently Asked Questions that we receive from time to time. We hope
you find them helpful.

If you have any other queries not addressed
below, please call us on 01256 762353 or email
us on info@hookdental.com. We are happy to
discuss your individual needs and answer any
questions that you may have at any time.

Will it hurt?
We aim to make your treatment as pain-free and stress-free as we can. We believe in treating you,
not just your teeth. More than anything else, patients say they fear injections and the sound of the drill
the most. We've found that in almost all cases, a lot of the anxiety and apprehension associated with a
trip to the dentist can be eliminated by taking time to discuss your treatment with you so you know
what to expect and with no surprises.

Relaxation techniques, topical anaesthetic, and calm, reassuring approach can make all the difference.
If the sound of the drill puts you off, why not bring your own walkman to your next dental visit. Whatever method helps you relax is beneficial and ensures a stress-free visit.

Do you take on NHS patients?
We are a private practice although we do provide NHS dental care to children and young people under the age of eighteen.

Can I pay for my treatment in instalments?
Our normal payment procedure is to ask you to pay a proportion of the cost of your treatment at
each visit, the final payment being due on your last appointment. We are happy to give estimates of
the total cost of a course of treatment before we begin and keep you informed of any necessary
changes as treatment proceeds. We cannot extend credit beyond the completion of treatment as this
requires a credit agreement and we are not licenced for credit.

You can choose to pay by either cash, cheque, debit or credit card. If you are worried about the cost
of dental treatment or you find any point about charges difficult to understand, please let us know.

Do you offer tooth whitening at your surgery?
Yes, please see our tooth whitening page

Why are dental implants better than dentures?
Dental implants look and feel just like your own original teeth. They can permanently replace teeth
that have been lost at any age by implanting a tooth on a titanium artificial root direct into the jaw.
Although the initial outlay may appear higher over, say, a twenty year period, the ongoing cost of
dentures or fixed bridges would be much greater. No more sore gums or messy adhesives and no
embarrassing or awkward moments with loose dentures.

Do you have disabled access to your surgery?
Our surgery has completely level access from the carpark at the front, over the pavement and
throughout the treatment areas, and there is ample turning area for all wheelchairs. We also have a
wheelchair sized lift for access to all floors and a dedicated disabled WC.

How can I learn to look after my teeth?
We have a team of hygienists, who have extensive experience in helping you maintain healthy teeth
and gums and can provide constructive advice on preventive dental care. They are pleased to
discuss your individual need.

In addition, we have also provided some useful tips on maintaining good oral hygiene on our dental advice page.

Can I have a combined appointment with the dentist and hygienist?
Yes, if you are a regular attender we can coordinate your hygiene appointment to coincide with your
dental examination. All hygiene treatments have to be prescribed by your dentist so if you haven't
been for a while you may need to see the dentist first to access your needs before you book with the
hygienist.

I can't take time off work for the dentist - what can I do?
Our practice has always been open a little longer than the normal working day to help patients fit in
their appointment around their working hours. We are also open until 7.00pm on Tuesdays and open
on Saturday mornings 9,00am - 12.00noon.

What if I have a complaint?
We aim to make your treatment as pleasant as possible every time you visit us. However, if you feel
you have not been treated as you would have liked, or are dissatisfied with any aspect of our practice,
we want to know. It is only through hearing from you that we can help and improve our service.

Please mention your concerns in the first instance to your dentist. This practice operates an in-house
complaints procedure for both Private and NHS patients, that adheres to nationally agreed criteria.
More information is available from our reception.