Your smile, explained.
See inside a tooth, learn what dentists do and how treatments work, and pick up the habits that keep teeth healthy for life.
Harder than bone, alive inside.
Every tooth is built in layers. Knowing them explains why decay hurts.
Enamel
The hardest substance in the body. It can't regrow.
Dentin
Softer layer below. Exposed dentin feels sensitive.
Pulp
Nerves and blood vessels. Infection here needs a root canal.
Roots
Anchor the tooth in your jawbone, sealed by the gums.
How dentists help you.
Dentists train for five years or more to keep your mouth healthy. Think of regular care as a shield that keeps decay-causing bacteria out.
Prevent
Check-ups catch problems before they hurt.
Diagnose
Exams and X-rays find hidden decay and infection.
Treat
Fillings, root canals, crowns and implants.
Advise
Personal tips on brushing, diet and habits.
Orthodontist
Straightens teeth with braces and aligners.
Hygienist
Deep-cleans and coaches your home care.
Calm, clean and high-tech.
Today's dental surgeries pair gentle care with digital X-rays, intraoral scanners and comfortable chairs.
Precision, to the millimetre.
Beside the tooth: the mouth mirror and explorer, the two tools used at every check-up.
Mouth mirror
Shows the backs of teeth and reflects light in.
Explorer & probe
Finds soft decay and measures gum pockets.
>3 mm = concernUltrasonic scaler
Vibrates tartar away with a water spray.
Handpiece
The "drill", removing decay precisely.
~400,000 rpmDigital X-ray
Instant images at a fraction of the dose.
Intraoral scanner
A 3D camera that replaces impression putty.
Repair, restore, replace.
Watch a cavity being cleaned, filled and set with a blue curing light, beside a titanium implant.
Fillings
Decay removed, cavity sealed in tooth colour.
20–60 minCleaning
Removes tartar brushing can't reach.
30–60 minRoot canal
Infected pulp cleaned out; the tooth is saved.
1–2 visitsCrowns
A custom cap restores a weak tooth.
10–15 yearsImplants
Titanium root plus a natural-looking crown.
3–6 monthsWhitening
Safe, supervised bleaching. Dentist only.
CosmeticStraighter smiles, gently.
Brackets and a fine archwire apply steady pressure, guiding teeth into a healthier bite over months.
Metal braces
Strong, precise and the most affordable.
18–24 monthsCeramic braces
Tooth-coloured brackets that blend in.
Clear aligners
Removable trays, changed every 1–2 weeks.
6–18 monthsRetainers
Keep teeth in place once treatment ends.
What happens at a check-up.
Every surface is checked, top to bottom, like the scan beside this panel.
- ChatYour health, medicines and any worries.
- ExaminationTeeth, gums, tongue and jaw checked.
- X-rays if neededLow-dose images of hidden areas.
- Scale & polishTartar removed, teeth polished.
- Your planFindings, options and costs explained.
Small habits, for life.
Brush twice daily
Two minutes, fluoride toothpaste.
1,450 ppmSpit, don't rinse
Keeps fluoride working on teeth.
Clean between
Floss or interdental brushes daily.
Cut sugar
Keep sweet things to mealtimes.
Don't smoke
Raises gum disease and cancer risk.
Regular check-ups
Even when nothing hurts.
3–24 monthsSmiles we're proud of.
I hadn't been to a dentist in years. They explained every step and I never felt rushed.Sarah M.Check-up & cleaning · London
My root canal was honestly no worse than a filling. The pain I'd had for weeks was gone.James R.Root canal · Manchester
Clear aligners fitted around my work life. Eight months later I can't stop smiling.Priya K.Clear aligners · New York
Care in the UK & US.
Two countries, two very different systems. Here's how each one works.
United Kingdom
NHS treatment is charged in set bands; free for under-18s, pregnant women and new mothers. Private care is also available.
Find an NHS dentistUnited States
Paid through dental insurance or out of pocket. Medicaid covers children; adult cover varies by state.
Find an ADA dentistWhen it hurts.
Severe pain, swelling or a knocked-out tooth needs prompt care. Keep a knocked-out tooth in milk and see a dentist within the hour.
Frequently asked.
Alongside: your four kinds of teeth. Incisors cut, canines tear, premolars and molars grind.
How often should I see the dentist?
Every 3 months to 2 years, depending on your oral health. Your dentist sets the interval.
Does a root canal hurt?
It's done under local anaesthetic and feels much like a filling. It relieves the infection's pain.
Why do my gums bleed?
Usually early gum disease from plaque. Keep brushing gently, clean between teeth and book a check-up.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes. The dose is tiny, similar to a few hours of natural background radiation.
Ready when you are.
Send a request and the practice will call you back to confirm a time.