You may have heard dental practices can open from the 8th June. From Tuesday 9th June we will be operating a closed door policy, where we can begin to arrange to see patients who require urgent dental care (only) where our dentists feel it is appropriate to attend our surgery. Ensuring it is not treatment that requires the use of air, water or high speed drills at this present time. If the urgent treatment you require does need to use the equipment mentioned, please be reassured a referral to a Dental Care Hub can be made by our Dentists.
Covid Information
For clarification, this means that the practice will continue to give advice by telephone and if necessary an emergency appointment for a non aerosol generating procedure or a referral to the Urgent Dental Care Hub if necessary.
We are unable at this time to complete any outstanding treatments and routine dental check ups.
We do not yet have a date as to when we can start to make these appointments. As soon as we do our staff will be contacting patients, please be patient with us.
Our priority is to ensure that dentistry is delivered in a safe working environment for staff as well as ensuring that patient safety is not compromised. We have to balance first and foremost your general health, the timing of your dental treatment and our professional responsibility towards helping to stop the spread of the virus by limiting person to person contact.
We have had to cancel numerous appointments since the lockdown began 3 months ago and will initially be prioritising appointments for our existing patients who have had dental emergencies or appointments cancelled, in order of urgency. Please do not attend the clinic unless you have an appointment.
The surgery as you are aware was always a clean and safe environment and we will do our best to provide it in the same manner for our patients. Each practice is a unique environment and therefore we need to open at a pace that allows us sufficient time to familiarise ourselves with, and implement, new safety standards, including those relating to personal protective equipment (PPE) and infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols. These protocols are required to enable us to safely deliver dental care, as recommended by Public Health England (PHE).
With all that in mind we redesigned the patient journey in line with social distancing.
We will be conducting pre-screening tests of all patients at the time of booking, to confirm your wellbeing and suitability to attend surgery.
When permitted will be booking your appointments to ensure that the practice and waiting areas are not overcrowded. We will do this by leaving suitable gaps between appointments, making sure that you can attend the practice while maintaining a suitable distance from one another in accordance with government guidelines.
We will also be creating clinics for patients who are most vulnerable, to help minimize contact with others for this group whilst they are at the practice.
To further avoid overcrowding when you arrive at the practice, we may ask that you wait in your car or in a safe place outside of the practice until called in. We will notify you via your phone when you should enter the practice. Please attend your appointment on your own unless you can’t leave anyone by themself or you need the help from a carer.
Please bring only all necessary items with you in order to reduce possible contamination, you will be asked to leave all unnecessary items at the door.
A member of staff will meet you at the door, please do not worry if our team member is covered with extra PPE, this is an important step to protect you, other patients and ourselves. You will be asked to use hand sanitiser and will be accompanied to the surgery. Your dentist and nurse will explain to you everything else during your appointment.
We will ask that you pay using card payment only. This crucial step greatly reduces touch points at the practice.
Between all appointments as always, the dental team will thoroughly disinfect the dental surgery, reducing the risk of exposure to anything harmful while you are in our dental chair.
We thank you all for your patience during this difficult time and look forward to seeing you again soon!
We will be in touch as soon as we ready to see you,
About Us
Marketgate are a proud and long established dentist in Lancaster town centre.
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Dental Advice
We offer all of our clients dental care and advice leading to strong and healthy teeth.
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Meet The Team
We're proud of our team of dentists, dental nurses and oral hygienists.
Should there be an occasion when we fall short of our own high standards, please let us know and we will do everything we can to rectify the situation.
We operate a practice complaints procedure for dealing with complaints.
Welcome to Marketgate Dental Practice
Welcome to Marketgate Dental Practice, your local dentist. We are a long established dentist in Lancaster town centre. The practice offers Denplan care and private pay as you go treatment. Children and existing exempt adult patients are still treated under the NHS.
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Marketgate is one of the longest established dental practices in Lancaster dating back to 1844, with a strong emphasis on continuing care for all members of the family... Read More
Oral Health Advice
As one of the longest established dentists in Lancaster, we offer dental care and advice to all our clients. Visiting your Lancaster dentist regularly can vastly improve your oral hygiene... Read More
Advice for Patients
As one of the longest established dentists in Lancaster, we offer dental care and advice to all our clients. Following the advice given here and visiting your Lancaster dentist regularly... Read More
Meet the Team
At Marketgate Dental Practice we have a fantastic team of dentists in Lancaster to assist you... Meet The Team
Contact Us
Marketgate Dental Practice is located right in the centre of the historic city of Lancaster within easy reach of the bus and train stations... Contact Us Now
More About Marketgate Dental Practice
Marketgate Dental Practice is a long established dentist in Lancaster which dates back to 1844. We provide ongoing dental care for all members of the family and as dentists in Lancaster, we aim to offer life long dental services to all our patients.
We have our own Hygienist and oral Health educator, by referral from the dentist.
Our friendly professional team are committed to making sure patients are valued and are always happy to help. In out Lancaster Dental Practice we have 4 dentists, a hygienist, an oral health educator, 7 dental nurses and 2 decontamination nurses. Our waiting room provides a relaxed, approachable and friendly atmosphere. We have a well maintained fish tank and a rotating exhibition of local artists work, available to purchase.
We have a dedicated children's corner with lots of books and toys and a wide range of Oral Hygiene products which are available to purchase from reception.
Marketgate Dental Practice is located right in the centre of the historic city of Lancaster within easy reach of the bus and train stations.
As one of the longest established dentists in Lancaster, we offer dental care and advice to all our clients. Following the advice given here and visiting your Lancaster dentist regularly can vastly improve your oral hygiene, leading to strong and healthy teeth that last a lifetime.
On average babies start teething at 6 months old, but this can be several months later.
Most children will have a full set of 20 milk teeth by the time they are three years old.
Around the age of six, the milk teeth are gradually replaced by the permanent teeth.
By the age of 14, most children have lost all their milk teeth and have a full set of 28 adult teeth. Sometimes the milk teeth can be retained too long and will need to be removed to allow the adult teeth to grow correctly.
At late teens or early 20's, four more wisdom teeth often grow in at the back of the mouth.
Gum diseases (periodontal or gingival diseases) are infections that harm the gum and bone that hold teeth in place. Gum inflammation is caused by plaque, when plaque stays on your teeth for too long, it gets harder and is called tartar/calculus. The longer the plaque and tartar stay on your teeth, the more damage they cause. Your gums may become red, swollen and bleed easily. This is called gingivitis.
If gingivitis is not treated, over time it can make your gums pull away from your teeth and form pockets that can get infected and be very difficult to clean properly, making the problem worse. This is called periodontitis. If not treated, this infection can ruin the bones, gums and tissue that support your teeth. As a result your teeth will become mobile and will have to be removed by a dentist.
To prevent gum diseases:
Brush your teeth twice a day (with a fluoride toothpaste) for 2 minutes.
Floss once a day or use special small brushes in between the teeth
Make regular visits to your dentist for a checkup and cleaning
Eat a well-balanced diet
Don't use tobacco products
Consider seeing our practice hygienist more regularly
Knowing how to brush and floss the right way is a big part of good oral health. Here's how: every day gently brush your teeth on all sides with a Medium/soft-bristle brush or an electric toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Small round motions and short back-and-forth strokes work best. Take the time to brush carefully and gently along the gum line. Lightly brushing your tongue also helps.
Along with brushing, clean around your teeth using dental floss or interdental brushes to keep your gums healthy.
Careful interdental brushing will remove plaque and leftover food that a toothbrush can't reach. Rinse after you floss.
Dental erosion is the slow chemical wearing away of the enamel on teeth (enamel is a hard coating on teeth which helps protect them). It is caused by the acids that usually come from drinks such as fruit juices, fizzy drinks and squashes - even the sugar-free varieties.
Dental erosion can cause sensitivity and pain. Although the enamel doesn't grow back it doesn't often need treatment. However in some very severe cases you may need an adhesive filling or a crown.
If you have any questions, talk to your dentist or our oral health educator.
Braces - Many teens require braces to straighten crowded or crooked teeth and poor jaw alignment. Teeth which are crowded are harder to keep clean, they can be lost early, and they might cause extra stress on the chewing muscles. An orthodontic examination will determine if you need braces. If you wear braces, extra care should be taken to properly clean your teeth.
Mouth Guards - If you play sports, mouth guards are essential to protect your teeth. Mouth guards usually cover the upper teeth, and are designed to protect against broken or even knocked out teeth, cut lips and other damage to your mouth. If you wear braces on your lower jaw, your dentist may suggest a mouth guard for these teeth as well.
Diet - Diet plays a key role in your dental health. The sugars and starches in many snack foods and drinks support the formation of plaque, which destroys tooth enamel. Limit the number of snacks you eat and drink to 2 a day. Eating a well-balanced diet from the five food groups can make a big difference in your dental health. For snacks, choose nutritious foods such as cheese, raw vegetables, plain yogurt or fruit, or chew sugar free gum.
Most parents know that reducing sugar in the diet is the best way to prevent tooth decay. What many don't realise, though, is that it is how often sugars are eaten - rather than how much - is more important. Eating sugary food and drinks frequently is the main cause of tooth decay.
Similarly, it is the frequency of acidic food and drinks - rather than the amount - that affects tooth erosion. Consuming acidic drinks frequently is the main cause of tooth erosion, especially if immediately followed by vigorous brushing. Try to wait 30 minutes before brushing.
To protect your teeth against decay and erosion, try to keep squashes, fizzy drinks, natural fruit juices, sweets and cakes to a minimum. It is especially important to avoid sugary food and drinks as snacks between meals or before bedtime.
Fruit, vegetables, cheese and milk are all healthier snacks because they contain natural sugars. These are much less likely to cause decay. You can help to protect against erosion by finishing a meal with a food such as milk or cheese. This will neutralise the acid in your mouth.
Just milk or plain water doesn't cause tooth decay or erosion. Some children find it hard to drink water if they usually have sweeter drinks, but they will get used to it in time.
Growing evidence suggests a link between gum disease and premature, underweight births. Pregnant women who have gum disease may be more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small.
More research is needed to confirm how gum disease affects pregnancy outcomes. Data also suggests that when gum disease worsens during pregnancy, there's a higher risk of having a premature baby.
What Can I Do to Ensure I Have a Healthy Pregnancy?
The best advice to women considering pregnancy is to visit their dentist for a checkup and to treat any oral problems before becoming pregnant.
During your pregnancy, your teeth and gums need special attention. Regular brushing and flossing, eating a balanced diet and visiting your dentist regularly will help reduce dental problems.
What Oral Problems Might Develop Whilst Pregnant?
Studies show that many pregnant women experience gingivitis - caused when dental plaque builds up on the teeth and irritates the gums. Symptoms include red, inflamed and bleeding gums.
Gingivitis occurs more frequently during pregnancy because the increased level of hormones exaggerates the way gums react to the irritants in plaque. However, it's still plaque - not hormones - that is the major cause of gingivitis.
Keeping your teeth clean, especially near the gum line, will help dramatically reduce or even prevent gingivitis whilst pregnant. And substituting sweets with more wholesome foods such as cheese, fresh fruits or vegetables is better for your teeth.
What Can I Expect When I Visit My Dentist Whilst Pregnant?
First, be sure to let your dentist know you're pregnant when you schedule your appointment. It's best to schedule your dental visit during the fourth to sixth month of your pregnancy. This is because the first three months of pregnancy are thought to be of greatest importance in your child's development.
Typically, X-rays, pain medications and antibiotics (especially tetracycline) are not prescribed during the first trimester, unless it's absolutely necessary. During the last three months, sitting for long periods of time in the dental chair can become uncomfortable. And there is evidence that pregnant women can be more prone to gagging. Your dentist, however, is prepared for this situation.
If you need to schedule an emergency visit, let the surgery know that you're pregnant before you arrive.
Marketgate Dental Practice: Your Local Dentist in Lancaster
If you're looking for a dentist in Lancaster who is highly experienced, friendly and offers an unsurpassed lever of care and attention, the Marketgate Dental Practice is home to four such dentists in Lancaster. We are local dentists centrally located in the Marketgate shopping centre, close to Market Square. As a long established Lancaster dentists, we offer all our patients at Marketgate Dental Practice regular dental checkups and when needed, an emergency dentist in Lancaster. Marketgate Dental Practice is a private dentist in Lancaster and part of the DenPlan scheme. We are dentists in Lancaster and offer services to patients from the following areas:
North Lancashire, Arkholme, Bare, Blackpool, Bolton le Sands, Borwick, Carnforth, Claughton, Cleveleys, Cockerham, Cowan Bridge, Elswick, Fleetwood, Forton, Freckleton, Galgate, Garstang, Gisburn, Glasson, Great Eccleston, Gressingham, Halton, Hambleton, Heaton, Hest Bank, Heysham, Higher hrushgill, Hornby, Kirkham, Lancaster, Leck, Lower Bentham, Lytham St. Anne's, Marshaw, Melling, Middleton, Morecambe, Nether Kellet, Newton, Over Kellet, Overton, Pilling, Poulton le Fylde, Preesall, Scorton, Scotforth, Silverdale, Slaidburn, St Michaels-on-Wyre, Tarnbrook, Thornton, Thrushgill, Torrisholme, Tunstall, Warton, Wennington, Whittington, Wray, Wrea Green
Marketgate Dental Practice: Your Local Dentist in Lancaster
Examination- A routine checkup of the health of your teeth and gums. The main purpose is preventing problems before they have chance to arise, and to pick up any issues in their early stages. We examine the hard tissues (teeth), the soft tissues (gums, cheek, tongue etc) and we also check externally, examining your glands around your jaw and neck, lips and skin.
Scale and polish – Professional cleaning of the teeth, both above and below the gum line. Removes plaque, calculus and staining (from everyday foods and drinks). Leaving you with a healthy and sparkling smile.
Radiographs – Xrays that we take to view the areas not otherwise visible. We use them to monitor your bone levels around the teeth, find cavities, check that existing fillings and other restorations are still sound. They are also used to diagnose problems by showing us tooth roots (checking for infection) and to check if adult teeth are all present and developing as expected
Extraction –Having a tooth removed. Reasons for extractions are for orthodontic treatment, severe tooth decay, infection and when it is no longer possible to be able to restore the tooth (e.g. a deep crack resulting in a tooth splitting through)
Root Canal Treatment - Root canal is a treatment used to save a badly damaged or infected tooth. The inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, removing the nerve tissue. We then use a special type of rubber to fill and seal inside the tooth, promoting repair.
Crowns – Also commonly known as a cap, is the full coverage of a tooth using laboratory made materials such as porcelain (to make it look like a tooth in colour) and metals. The most common reason to crown a tooth is that it requires more doing to it to restore than a filling is able to do. It also holds the tooth together if it has cracks in it.
Onlay / Inlay – Partial coverage of the tooth made in the laboratory from composite, porcelain or gold. Used when more than a filling is needed, but less than a full crown, to restore the tooth
Veneers – A thin layer of Porcelain made to fit over the front surface of a tooth. (a bit like a false nail for your tooth). Most commonly used to improve the appearance of front teeth that are discoloured, heavily filled, or to alter shape slightly allowing us to close gaps.
Fissure sealants – They are a safe and painless way of protecting teeth from decay. A sealant is a protective coating, which is applied to the biting surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant forms a shield that keeps food and bacteria from getting in to the tiny grooves of the teeth causing decay.
Dentures – Custom made (in a laboratory), removable teeth, attached to either an acrylic or metal base, used to replace missing teeth, whether 1 tooth or a complete full set replacing all the teeth.
Amalgam fillings – Sliver coloured metal fillings, used to replace tooth structure lost due to the removing of decay (cavity) or to repair breakages of the teeth.
Composite fillings – Tooth coloured fillings, made of a mixture of plastic and glass. Most commonly used on the front teeth. Also used as a alternative to the silver (amalgam) fillings in the back teeth. As the shade is matched to the shade of the tooth it makes them pretty much invisible.
Night guard – A removable guard for your teeth, mostly worn while asleep. Custom made in a laboratory. Helps to relieve pain and problems in the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint) and reduces wear caused by grinding or clenching of the teeth.
Sport mouth guard – A guard used to protect the teeth during contact sports, such as rugby or boxing. They are custom made in a laboratory to provide the best fit and therefore protection possible. They can be clear or different coloured, people often choose team or school colours.
Whitening – The process of lightening the tooth surface (enamel). Laboratory constructed, custom fit trays and professional strength whitening gel, mean that you get more reliable and effective results. Usually using types of bleach called carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, combined with fluoride (for strengthening the enamel) and ingredients to help reduce sensitivity.
Oral health education – Working on the principle that prevention is much better than cure. We provide patients with advice on effective cleaning, preventing decay through diet and fluoride use to enable people to have happy healthy mouths. We want to help people in any way we can on a wide range of subjects such as care of dry mouth, problems with the actual ability to hold and use toothbrushes (due to arthritis, stroke etc.) and giving up smoking. If you have any questions just ask. This service we provide free of charge.
Marketgate Dental Practice: Your Local Dentist in Lancaster
Wrinkle relaxing treatments using botulinum toxin, (commonly known by a manufacturer’s brand name of Botox). Involves tiny injections to temporarily relax specific muscles, most commonly used for frown lines, forehead lines and crow’s feet.
Wrinkle smoothing treatments, otherwise known as Dermal Fillers. Using fillers made with hyaluronic acid, something our bodies naturally produce, but with age production slows causing lack of volume e.g. fine lines around the mouth, and the lines from the side of the nose to by corners of the mouth (perioral lines). Dermal fillers help to restore our more youthful fullness in these areas.
Advanced, specialised treatments, using combinations of botulinum toxin and dermal fillers, to enable us to alter the shape of the face in a non-surgical way, e.g. jaw contouring, eye brow lift, scar reduction and non-surgical rhinoplasty (‘nose job’) to name a few.
Treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), injections of botulinum toxin block the nerve supply to the eccrine glands, providing very effective reduction in sweating.
Clear Correct Clear aligners provide a convenient and affordable orthodontic treatment option, able to treat a wide variety of issues that keep people from achieving their ideal smile. The aligners are comfortable, effective, removable and best of all, nearly invisible!