Services

From preventative care to tooth replacement: we offer the entire range of modern dental treatments to keep your teeth healthy and beautiful throughout your life. Here's a quick look at the types of treatments we provide.

General Dentistry

Prevention: keeping teeth healthy

We recognise the importance of prevention in dentistry. We offer the preventive application of fluoride varnish to children from the age of 4 years. All adult patients are screened for oral cancer at check-ups and x-rays are taken at regular intervals to detect potential problems early. The condition of the gums is also checked regularly and appropriate treatment is offered.

Periodontal treatment: looking after the condition of the gums and other supporting structures.

Any early signs of gum disease will be identified and remedial treatment offered to patients. Our dental hygienist can work with these patients to improve their gum health and prevent future deterioration.

Other Services Offered

Hygienist Service
Fillings including white fillings
Root Canal Treatment
Crowns & Bridges
Dentures including flexible acrylic and cobalt-chrome dentures
Extractions
Minor Oral Surgery
Wisdom Tooth Removal

Cosmetic Dentistry

We offer a wide range of cosmetic treatments:

Stain removal with NSK Flash Pearl
Tooth whitening with Boutique Whitening
Cosmetic white fillings
Composite bonding

Porcelain veneers
Smile makeovers
Porcelain crown and bridges

Facial Aesthetics

We offer a wide range of facial aesthetics:

Anti-wrinkle Injections
Gummy Smile Reduction
Jaw Clenching

Tooth Alignment

We are able to offer alignment of crooked, crowded and spaced teeth in adults using an innovative tooth-coloured bracket system or clear aligners. We offer a free initial consultation. 0% finance is available over 12 months.

CFAST tooth alignment
Invisalign tooth alignment
32co tooth alignment

Dental Implants

At Retford Dental Centre, we offer dental implants as a long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. Titanium implants can be used to support individual crowns, fixed bridges or removable dentures, helping to restore your smile, function and confidence.

Dr Vik Patel has undertaken further training in implant dentistry and has been providing implant treatment at the practice since 2021, having placed over 100 dental implants.

We also offer advanced implant treatments, including immediate implant placement, bone grafting and sinus lift procedures (sinus augmentation) where clinically appropriate. These techniques can help patients with varying levels of available bone explore their options for implant treatment.

Your Implant Assessment

If you are considering dental implants, we invite you to book a complimentary implant assessment. This includes a thorough examination of your mouth and an assessment of the bone available for implant placement.

We will also take any necessary X-rays, photographs and impressions to help plan your treatment.

Your initial implant assessment is free of charge. If a CT scan (3D bone scan) is required to assess your suitability for treatment and plan implant placement, an additional fee of £230 will apply.

Our team will be happy to discuss your options and guide you through the next steps towards restoring your smile.

Dental Implants in Romford and Essex: Everything You Need to Know

Missing teeth can affect your confidence, ability to eat comfortably and overall oral health. Dental implants offer a long-lasting way to replace missing teeth, providing a fixed replacement that looks and functions much like a natural tooth.

At Retford Dental Centre in Harold Hill, Romford, Dr Vikash Patel offers dental implant treatment, including immediate implant placement in suitable cases, bone grafting and sinus augmentation.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is a small titanium fixture that is placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once integrated with the surrounding bone, it can support a replacement tooth.

Depending on your needs, implants can be used to support:

A single replacement crown.
An implant-supported bridge to replace several missing teeth.
An implant-retained removable denture.
Full-arch fixed replacement teeth.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants offer several advantages:

Fixed replacement teeth that do not need to be removed for cleaning.
Help restore chewing function.
Can provide a natural-looking appearance.
Help reduce the need to rely on neighbouring teeth for support.
Can help preserve jawbone volume following tooth loss.

Can I have an immediate dental implant?

In suitable cases, an implant can be placed immediately after a tooth has been extracted. This is known as immediate implant placement.

Whether this is appropriate depends on factors including the condition of the surrounding bone, gum health, infection and the stability achievable at the time of placement.

Immediate placement does not necessarily mean that the final replacement tooth can be fitted immediately.

What is bone grafting?

Some patients do not have sufficient bone volume to support a dental implant.

Bone grafting is a procedure used to rebuild or increase the available bone. In certain cases, a sinus lift or sinus augmentation may also be required when replacing upper back teeth.

These procedures can help make implant treatment possible for patients who might otherwise have insufficient bone.

How long does dental implant treatment take?

Treatment times vary depending on the complexity of the case.

Some patients may be suitable for immediate implant placement, while others require healing time or additional procedures such as bone grafting before the final restoration can be fitted.

Dr Vikash will explain the expected treatment stages following an assessment.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants can provide many years of service with appropriate care. Their longevity depends on oral hygiene, regular professional maintenance, general health and lifestyle factors.

Smoking, poorly controlled gum disease and inadequate cleaning can increase the risk of implant complications.

Regular dental examinations and hygienist appointments are important.

Am I suitable for dental implants?

Most adults with missing teeth can potentially be considered for implant treatment.

Suitability depends on your general and dental health, bone quality, gum condition and ability to maintain good oral hygiene.

A clinical examination and appropriate imaging are needed to determine whether implants are suitable.

smiling senior woman in dental chair at clinic

Dental implants in Harold Hill, Romford

At Retford Dental Centre, Dr Vikash Patel has undertaken further training in implant dentistry and has placed over 100 dental implants.

Treatment options include single implants, immediate implant placement in suitable cases, bone grafting and sinus augmentation.

We aim to provide carefully planned treatment tailored to each patient's individual requirements.

Interested in dental implants?

Contact Retford Dental Centre to arrange an implant consultation.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dental implants painful?

Implant placement is generally carried out under local anaesthetic. Some discomfort, swelling and bruising can occur afterwards. You are normally fine to work the next day.

Can dental implants replace multiple teeth?

Yes. Implants can support individual crowns, bridges or full-arch restorations.

Can I have implants if I have been missing teeth for years?

Potentially. However, bone loss can occur following tooth loss, so additional procedures may sometimes be required.

Are dental implants better than dentures?

They offer different advantages. Implants can provide fixed or implant-retained replacement teeth, whereas conventional dentures are removable. The most suitable option depends on your clinical needs and preferences.

Anti-Wrinkle Injections

What are anti-wrinkle injections?

Anti-wrinkle injections are a popular, non-surgical treatment designed to soften the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles, creating a smoother, more refreshed and youthful appearance.

The treatment uses a purified protein called botulinum toxin type A, which temporarily relaxes specific facial muscles responsible for repetitive movements such as frowning, squinting and raising the eyebrows. By reducing these muscle contractions, existing expression lines can become less noticeable, while the formation of deeper lines may be reduced over time.

The aim is to achieve a natural-looking result that preserves your facial expressions while softening unwanted wrinkles. Treatment is tailored to your individual facial anatomy, concerns and desired outcome.

Which areas of the face can be treated?

Anti-wrinkle injections can be used to address several areas of the upper face and, in selected cases, other facial areas.

Forehead lines

Horizontal lines that appear when raising the eyebrows can be softened by carefully relaxing the forehead muscles.

Frown lines(between the eyebrows)

Often called the “11 lines”, these vertical lines develop between the eyebrows when frowning or concentrating. Treatment can soften their appearance and create a more relaxed expression.

Crow’s feet(around the eyes)

These fine lines appear at the outer corners of the eyes, particularly when smiling or squinting. Treatment can soften these lines while aiming to maintain a natural smile.

Brow area

Carefully placed injections may create a subtle brow lift by adjusting the balance between muscles that raise and lower the eyebrows.

Bunny lines(sides of the nose)

Small lines that appear on the bridge or sides of the nose when scrunching it may be softened with targeted treatment.

Gummy Smile Reduction

A gummy smile occurs when a significant amount of gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth when smiling. In suitable cases, anti-wrinkle injections can relax the muscles responsible for lifting the upper lip, reducing how high the lip rises when smiling.

Other selected areas

In suitable patients, anti-wrinkle injections may also be considered for lines around the mouth, a downturned mouth, chin dimpling and prominent neck bands. These areas require particular care and specialist assessment because treatment can affect important facial movements.

Not every area is suitable for everyone. De Sonam will assess your facial muscles, skin and individual needs before recommending treatment.

When will I see the results?

Anti-wrinkle injections do not work immediately. The effects develop gradually as the targeted muscles begin to relax.

First 2–3 days: Initial changes may start to become noticeable.
Around 7–14 days: The effects are usually more apparent, with the full result generally assessed at approximately two weeks.
After 2 weeks: A review will be recommended to assess the outcome and determine whether any further treatment is appropriate.

How long do the results last?

Results typically last around 3–4 months, although some people may notice effects for a shorter or longer period.

Over time, muscle activity gradually returns and expression lines may begin to reappear. With regular treatment, some patients find that their lines appear less pronounced, although results and treatment intervals vary.

To maintain the effect, repeat treatments may be considered following an appropriate clinical assessment.

Book a Consultation

At Retford Dental Centre, our approach to facial aesthetics focuses on individual assessment, patient safety and subtle, balanced results. We aim to help you look refreshed and feel confident while maintaining your natural appearance.

Book a consultation with Dr Sonam to discuss your concerns and find out whether anti-wrinkle treatment is suitable for you.

Book Now

Invisalign and Clear Aligners: Your Guide to Straighter Teeth

If you would like straighter teeth without traditional fixed braces, clear aligner treatment may be an option.

At Retford Dental Centre in Harold Hill, Romford, we offer orthodontic options including Invisalign, 32co clear aligners and other suitable fixed and removable orthodontic treatments.

What are clear aligners?

Clear aligners are custom-made, transparent plastic trays designed to gradually move teeth into improved positions.

Each aligner is slightly different, applying controlled forces to guide teeth through a planned sequence of movements.

They are removable, making eating and cleaning your teeth more convenient than with fixed braces.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a well-established clear aligner system that uses a series of individually manufactured aligners to straighten teeth.

Treatment is planned using digital technology, allowing your dentist to assess the proposed tooth movements and discuss the expected outcome.

What are 32co clear aligners?

32co is another clear aligner treatment system that can be used to address suitable orthodontic concerns.

The choice between Invisalign and 32co depends on your individual case, the complexity of the tooth movements required and the treatment plan recommended by your dentist.

What dental problems can clear aligners treat?

Depending on the case, clear aligners may help improve:

Crowded or overlapping teeth.
Gaps between teeth.
Certain bite irregularities.
Mild to moderate alignment problems.
Relapse following previous orthodontic treatment.

More complex cases may require fixed braces or a different orthodontic approach.

How long does clear aligner treatment take?

Treatment duration varies depending on the complexity of your case and how consistently the aligners are worn.

Many treatment plans require aligners to be worn for approximately 20–22 hours per day, removing them for eating, drinking anything other than water and cleaning your teeth.

Your dentist will provide an individual estimate following an assessment.

Are clear aligners better than fixed braces?

Both treatments can achieve excellent orthodontic results when appropriately selected and managed.

Clear aligners offer the advantage of being removable and discreet.

Fixed braces may be more suitable for certain complex tooth movements and do not rely on the patient remembering to wear removable appliances.

Do I need retainers after Aligners?

Yes. Teeth can move back towards their original positions after orthodontic treatment.

Retainers are an important part of maintaining your result. Your dentist will advise on the most appropriate retention plan.

Invisalign and clear aligners in Harold Hill, Romford

At Retford Dental Centre, we offer a range of orthodontic options to help patients achieve healthier, more balanced smiles.

We will assess your teeth, bite and smile goals before recommending the most appropriate treatment.

Thinking about straightening your teeth?

Contact Retford Dental Centre to arrange an orthodontic consultation.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I eat with Invisalign?

Aligners should normally be removed when eating. You should also remove them for drinks other than water.

Is Invisalign painful?

Some pressure or temporary discomfort is common when starting a new aligner.

Can adults have Invisalign?

Yes. Many adults choose clear aligners to improve their tooth alignment.

Will I need attachments?

Some treatments require small tooth-coloured composite attachments to help achieve particular tooth movements.

Can Invisalign fix an overbite?

Certain overbites can be improved with aligner treatment, depending on their severity and the underlying dental and skeletal factors.

Composite Bonding: Is It the Right Treatment for Your Smile?

If you are unhappy with chipped, uneven, worn or discoloured teeth, composite bonding may offer a minimally invasive way to improve your smile.

At Retford Dental Centre in Harold Hill, Romford, we offer cosmetic dental treatments designed to enhance the appearance of your natural teeth while considering their long-term health.

What is composite bonding?

Composite bonding is a cosmetic dental treatment in which tooth-coloured composite resin is carefully applied and shaped onto the surface of a tooth.

The material can be used to improve the appearance of teeth by changing their shape, size and proportions.

It is commonly used to:

Repair chipped or worn teeth.
Close small gaps between teeth.
Improve uneven tooth edges.
Correct minor shape irregularities.
Improve the appearance of certain discoloured teeth.
Create a more balanced smile.

Does composite bonding damage your teeth?

One of the advantages of composite bonding is that it can often be completed with little or no removal of natural tooth structure.

However, this depends on the individual case. Your dentist will assess your teeth and bite before recommending treatment.

How long does composite bonding last?

Composite bonding can last several years, although it is not permanent.

The lifespan depends on the amount of bonding, bite forces, oral hygiene and lifestyle habits.

The material can stain, chip or wear over time and may require polishing, repair or replacement.

closeup smiling woman making frame gesture

Is composite bonding better than veneers?

Both treatments can improve the appearance of your smile, but they work differently.

Composite bonding uses tooth-coloured resin applied directly to the teeth. Porcelain veneers are custom-made restorations that are bonded to the front surfaces of teeth.

Composite bonding can be less invasive and easier to repair, whereas porcelain veneers generally offer greater stain resistance.

Your dentist can help determine which approach is appropriate.

How many teeth should I have bonded?

This depends on your smile goals and the condition of your existing teeth.

Some patients benefit from bonding a single tooth, while others may choose to improve several teeth to create a more balanced appearance.

A smile assessment helps establish the most suitable treatment plan.

Looking for composite bonding in Romford?

At Retford Dental Centre, we take a personalised approach to cosmetic dentistry, focusing on natural-looking results and preserving healthy tooth structure wherever possible.

We welcome patients from Harold Hill, Romford and the surrounding Essex areas.

Book a cosmetic consultation:

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Does composite bonding hurt?

It is usually a comfortable procedure and often does not require local anaesthetic.

Can composite bonding close gaps?

Yes, small gaps can often be improved with composite bonding, depending on their size and the patient's bite.

Can I whiten my teeth after composite bonding?

Whitening does not change the colour of existing composite resin. If whitening is planned, it is usually best to discuss this before bonding.

Does composite bonding stain?

Yes. Composite resin can stain over time, particularly with frequent exposure to tea, coffee, red wine and tobacco.

Dental Crowns, Bridges and Dentures: Which Treatment Is Right for You?

Damaged, weakened or missing teeth can affect your ability to eat comfortably, speak clearly and feel confident about your smile. Modern restorative dentistry offers several ways to repair or replace teeth, helping restore both appearance and function.

At Retford Dental Centre in Harold Hill, Romford, we offer a range of restorative dental treatments, including porcelain crowns, dental bridges and removable dentures. Our aim is to find a solution that is appropriate for your dental health, individual needs and long-term goals.

In this guide, we explain the differences between these treatments and help you understand which option may be suitable.

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that fits over an existing tooth, covering and protecting it.

Crowns are commonly recommended when a tooth has been significantly weakened by decay, a large filling, fracture or previous root canal treatment.

A crown can help:

Restore the shape and function of a damaged tooth.
Protect a weakened tooth from further damage.
Improve the appearance of a discoloured or misshapen tooth.
Restore a tooth following certain root canal treatments.

What types of dental crowns are available?

There are several materials available, each with different properties.

Porcelain-bonded crowns

These combine a metal substructure with a porcelain outer layer. They offer strength and an aesthetic appearance.

All-ceramic crowns

These are made without a metal substructure and can provide a natural-looking appearance. They may be suitable for front or back teeth depending on the clinical situation.

Zirconia crowns

These are made from a strong ceramic material and can be suitable for teeth that experience significant biting forces.

Your dentist will discuss the most appropriate material based on the position of the tooth, your bite, aesthetic requirements and budget.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth.

A conventional bridge is supported by neighbouring teeth, which are carefully prepared to hold the replacement tooth or teeth in position.

Bridges can help:

Replace missing teeth without a removable denture.
Restore chewing function.
Improve the appearance of gaps.
Restore the overall shape of your dental arch.

Not every missing tooth is suitable for a conventional bridge. The health and strength of the supporting teeth, as well as your bite, need to be assessed first.

There are also alternative bridge designs, including adhesive or Maryland bridges, which may require less preparation of neighbouring teeth in suitable cases.

What are dentures?

Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth.

They can replace a single missing tooth, several teeth or a complete arch of teeth.

There are two main types:

Partial dentures

These replace some missing teeth while fitting around the natural teeth that remain. They may be made from acrylic, flexible materials or metal frameworks such as cobalt-chrome.

Full dentures

These replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They are individually made to fit the shape of your mouth and gums.

Modern dentures are designed to provide a comfortable fit and a natural-looking appearance.

What is the difference between acrylic and chrome dentures?

The most appropriate material depends on the number of teeth being replaced, the condition of your remaining teeth and your personal preferences.

Acrylic dentures

Usually made from a pink acrylic base.
Can be used for partial or full dentures.
Can often be adjusted or repaired.
May be suitable for patients needing a straightforward removable solution.

Cobalt-chrome dentures

Made with a thin metal framework.
Often provide a more rigid and stable design.
Can be designed to use existing teeth for support.
May be more suitable for certain partial denture cases.

Flexible dentures

Made using flexible materials.
Can offer an alternative to conventional rigid designs in selected cases.

Your dentist will explain the advantages and limitations of each option.

Are dental implants an alternative to bridges and dentures?

Yes. Dental implants provide another way to replace missing teeth.

An implant is a titanium fixture placed into the jawbone to support a replacement crown, bridge or certain types of dentures.

Depending on your circumstances, implants may offer a fixed alternative to removable dentures or a way of replacing missing teeth without relying on neighbouring natural teeth for support.

However, implant treatment involves surgery and requires careful assessment of your bone, gums and general health.

At Retford Dental Centre, Dr Vikash Patel provides implant treatment, including immediate implant placement, bone grafting and sinus augmentation where clinically appropriate.

How do I know which treatment is right for me?

There is no single solution that is right for every patient.

Your dentist will assess:

The condition of your remaining teeth.
The health of your gums.
Your bite and chewing function.
The number and position of missing teeth.
Your aesthetic preferences.
Your budget and long-term dental goals.

We will explain the available options, including the benefits, limitations and costs, before you decide how to proceed.

Restorative dentistry in Harold Hill, Romford

At Retford Dental Centre, we provide a range of restorative treatments to help patients maintain and restore their smiles.

Whether you require a crown to protect a weakened tooth, a bridge to replace a missing tooth or dentures to restore several missing teeth, our team will help you explore your options.

We welcome patients from Harold Hill, Romford and the surrounding Essex areas.

Arrange a consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a dental crown last?

Crowns can last many years, although their lifespan depends on oral hygiene, bite forces, the material used and the health of the underlying tooth.

Does getting a crown hurt?

The procedure is normally carried out under local anaesthetic. Some temporary sensitivity or discomfort may occur afterwards.

Can a bridge replace more than one missing tooth?

Yes. Bridges can replace one or several missing teeth, depending on the strength and suitability of the supporting teeth.

Will I be able to eat normally with dentures?

Most patients need an adjustment period when getting new dentures. Eating may initially feel different, but practice and appropriate adjustments can improve comfort and function.

Are dentures better than dental implants?

Neither is universally better. Dentures are removable and do not require implant surgery. Implants can provide fixed support or improve the retention of certain dentures. Your dentist can discuss which option is suitable for you.

Can I have a bridge if I have gum disease?

Active gum disease should generally be assessed and stabilised before restorative treatment. Your dentist will advise on the appropriate sequence of care.