Frequently Asked Questions — Exclusive Smile Dental Clinic Lagos

Question 1

Where is Exclusive Smile Dental Clinic located in Lagos?

Accepted Answer

Exclusive Smile has two locations in Lagos: 12b Agoro Odiyan Street, off Adeola Odeku, Victoria Island; and our Ikeja branch. Both offer the full range of dental services with the same team and standards of care.

Question 2

What are Exclusive Smile's opening hours?

Accepted Answer

We are open Monday to Saturday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. For dental emergencies outside these hours, please call our emergency line: 0810 816 0816.

Question 3

How do I book an appointment at Exclusive Smile?

Accepted Answer

You can book an appointment online at exclusivesmileng.com/book-appointment, call us on 0810 816 0816, or walk in to either our Victoria Island or Ikeja clinic.

Question 4

What is Exclusive Smile's Google rating?

Accepted Answer

Exclusive Smile Dental Clinic has a 4.9-star rating on Google with over 596 verified patient reviews, making us one of the highest-rated dental clinics in Lagos.

Question 5

Does Exclusive Smile accept HMO plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Exclusive Smile accepts a range of HMO plans. Contact us directly on 0810 816 0816 to confirm whether your specific HMO provider is on our panel before booking.

Question 6

Who are the dentists at Exclusive Smile?

Accepted Answer

Our team is led by Dr. Uku Ntekim, Group Clinical Director and specialist in General, Aesthetic & Implant Dentistry. Dr. Uku holds a BDS from the University of Lagos, a postgraduate certificate from Tipton Training Institute in the UK (2020), and is a certified Implantologist from CASA DENTE, Lebanon (2021).

Question 7

How much do dental implants cost in Lagos?

Accepted Answer

Dental implant costs vary depending on the number of implants needed, bone density, and complexity of your case. Exclusive Smile offers a free consultation and 3D CT scan to assess your situation and provide a transparent, personalised cost breakdown. This month, eligible patients can receive up to 15% off. Call 0810 816 0816 to find out more.

Question 8

Is dental implant surgery painful?

Accepted Answer

No. Dental implant surgery at Exclusive Smile is performed under local anaesthesia, meaning you will not feel pain during the procedure. You may experience mild soreness for a few days after, which is easily managed with standard pain relief. Dr. Uku Ntekim uses minimally-invasive techniques to keep discomfort minimal.

Question 9

How long do dental implants last?

Accepted Answer

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime — 25 years or more. The titanium implant post itself is designed to fuse permanently with your jawbone. The porcelain crown on top may eventually need replacement after 10–15 years. Regular check-ups help maximise longevity.

Question 10

How long does the dental implant process take?

Accepted Answer

The full process from consultation to final crown typically takes 3–6 months. This includes the osseointegration (healing) period where the implant fuses with your jawbone. The surgical placement itself takes 1–2 hours. A temporary tooth is provided during healing so you are never without a smile.

Question 11

Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

Accepted Answer

You are likely a good candidate if you have one or more missing teeth, have sufficient jawbone density, are in generally good health, and do not smoke heavily. A free consultation and 3D CT scan at Exclusive Smile will confirm your eligibility. Even patients with some bone loss may be eligible after bone grafting.

Question 12

What are the alternatives to dental implants?

Accepted Answer

The main alternatives are dental bridges (which require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth) and dentures (which are removable and can slip). Implants are considered the gold standard because they are permanent, preserve jawbone, and feel exactly like natural teeth. Our team can explain the best option for your specific case.

Question 13

What happens if I delay dental implant treatment?

Accepted Answer

Delaying treatment after tooth loss causes the jawbone to shrink (resorption), neighbouring teeth to shift into the gap, changes in facial structure, and difficulty chewing. The longer you wait, the more bone is lost — potentially requiring a more complex bone graft. Early treatment produces faster, better, more cost-effective results.

Question 14

Does Exclusive Smile offer Invisalign in Lagos?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Exclusive Smile offers Invisalign — clear, removable aligners that straighten teeth discreetly. They are custom-made using 3D scanning technology. Invisalign is ideal for adults and teens who want to improve their smile without visible metal brackets.

Question 15

How much does Invisalign cost in Lagos?

Accepted Answer

Invisalign costs vary depending on the complexity of your case and the number of aligners required. Cases can range from mild (fewer aligners, shorter treatment) to complex (full arch correction). Book a free consultation at Exclusive Smile for an exact quote tailored to your smile.

Question 16

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Accepted Answer

Invisalign treatment at Exclusive Smile typically takes 6–18 months, depending on the degree of misalignment. Mild cases can sometimes be completed in as little as 3–6 months. You will wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before moving to the next set.

Question 17

What is the difference between Invisalign and dental braces?

Accepted Answer

Invisalign uses clear, removable plastic aligners — nearly invisible and more comfortable, but require discipline to wear 22 hours per day. Dental braces use fixed metal or ceramic brackets bonded to teeth. Braces are more effective for severe or complex cases and work continuously without patient compliance. Our orthodontic team will recommend the best option for your case.

Question 18

At what age can children get braces?

Accepted Answer

Traditional braces are most commonly fitted between ages 10–14 when most permanent teeth have erupted and the jaw is still developing. However, some early orthodontic treatment may begin from age 7. Exclusive Smile's orthodontic team treats children, teens, and adults.

Question 19

Do braces or Invisalign hurt?

Accepted Answer

Both cause temporary discomfort when teeth begin moving. With braces, soreness typically occurs after each adjustment appointment (lasting 1–3 days). Invisalign users may feel pressure when switching to a new aligner tray. This discomfort is a normal sign that the treatment is working and settles quickly.

Question 20

What cosmetic dental treatments does Exclusive Smile offer?

Accepted Answer

Exclusive Smile offers: teeth whitening, dental veneers and crowns, smile makeovers, dental bonding, gum contouring, and Invisalign. Our cosmetic team tailors every treatment plan to your face, goals, and budget.

Question 21

How white can teeth whitening make my teeth?

Accepted Answer

Professional teeth whitening at Exclusive Smile can brighten your teeth by several shades in a single session. Results depend on your natural tooth colour and the extent of staining. Most patients achieve noticeably whiter results in 1–2 hours. We use clinically proven whitening agents for safe, effective results.

Question 22

How long does teeth whitening last?

Accepted Answer

Professional teeth whitening results typically last 6 months to 2 years depending on lifestyle factors like coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking. Touch-up treatments can maintain your results. Exclusive Smile will advise you on the best maintenance plan after your whitening session.

Question 23

What is a smile makeover?

Accepted Answer

A smile makeover is a personalised combination of cosmetic treatments — such as whitening, veneers, alignment correction, and gum contouring — designed together to achieve your ideal smile. Exclusive Smile creates a customised plan based on your face shape, skin tone, and cosmetic goals. Treatment can range from 2 weeks to 6 months depending on the procedures involved.

Question 24

What are dental veneers?

Accepted Answer

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made porcelain shells bonded to the front surface of teeth to transform their colour, shape, and size. They fix staining, chips, cracks, gaps, and minor misalignment. Veneers at Exclusive Smile are crafted to look completely natural and last 10–20 years with proper care.

Question 25

Are dental veneers permanent?

Accepted Answer

Placing veneers does involve removing a small amount of enamel from the tooth surface, which is permanent. The veneers themselves will need replacement after 10–20 years. Our team will assess whether veneers are the right solution for you and explain all options during your consultation.

Question 26

What is a dental emergency?

Accepted Answer

A dental emergency includes: severe toothache or throbbing pain, a knocked-out or loose tooth, a cracked or broken tooth causing pain, significant facial swelling, bleeding that will not stop, a lost crown or filling causing sensitivity or pain, or difficulty opening your mouth.

Question 27

What should I do in a dental emergency in Lagos?

Accepted Answer

Call Exclusive Smile immediately on 0810 816 0816. Explain your symptoms and we will advise on urgency and whether to come in immediately. For a knocked-out tooth, keep it moist (place in milk or hold in your cheek) and come to us within 30–60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth. Do not try to reinsert it yourself.

Question 28

Does Exclusive Smile handle emergency dental appointments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Exclusive Smile prioritises dental emergencies. Call our line on 0810 816 0816 and we will arrange the earliest available appointment. For pain, swelling, or trauma — do not wait. Early treatment prevents the situation from worsening.

Question 29

What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?

Accepted Answer

Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root). Rinse gently with water — do not scrub. Try to place it back in the socket if possible. If not, store it in milk or a cup of saliva. Call Exclusive Smile on 0810 816 0816 immediately and come in within 30–60 minutes. Speed is critical for saving a knocked-out tooth.

Question 30

What causes a tooth abscess and is it dangerous?

Accepted Answer

A tooth abscess is a pocket of infection caused by bacteria — usually from an untreated cavity, gum disease, or cracked tooth. Signs include throbbing pain, swelling, sensitivity to pressure, and sometimes fever. An abscess is a serious condition that requires urgent treatment. Left untreated, the infection can spread. Call Exclusive Smile immediately if you suspect an abscess.

Question 31

When should a child first visit the dentist?

Accepted Answer

We recommend a child's first dental visit when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday — whichever comes first. Early visits help identify issues, build comfort with dental care, and establish good habits from the start. Exclusive Smile's paediatric team creates a welcoming, stress-free environment for children.

Question 32

Does Exclusive Smile offer paediatric dentistry in Lagos?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Exclusive Smile offers specialist paediatric (children's) dental care for infants, children, and adolescents. Our child-friendly environment, gentle techniques, and experienced team make dental visits a positive experience for young patients.

Question 33

How often should children visit the dentist?

Accepted Answer

Children should visit the dentist every six months for routine check-ups and cleaning. Regular visits help prevent cavities, catch issues early, and reinforce good oral hygiene habits.

Question 34

How can I prevent cavities in my child's teeth?

Accepted Answer

Prevent childhood cavities by: brushing teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, limiting sugary snacks and drinks, flossing from age 2–3 once teeth touch, starting dental visits early, and asking our team about fissure sealants — a protective coating that prevents decay in back teeth.

Question 35

What are the signs of gum disease?

Accepted Answer

Early signs of gum disease (gingivitis) include: gums that bleed when brushing or flossing, red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, and gum tenderness. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can cause gum recession, loose teeth, and bone loss. Early treatment at Exclusive Smile prevents serious damage.

Question 36

Can gum disease be reversed?

Accepted Answer

Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) is fully reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) cannot be fully reversed but can be effectively managed and halted with professional periodontal treatment, preventing further bone and tooth loss.

Question 37

What is periodontal treatment?

Accepted Answer

Periodontal treatment at Exclusive Smile includes deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline, antibiotic therapy where necessary, and ongoing maintenance visits every 3–6 months to keep gum disease under control.

Question 38

Does gum disease cause bad breath?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Persistent bad breath (halitosis) is one of the most common signs of gum disease. The bacteria that cause gum infection also produce sulphur compounds that create an unpleasant odour. Professional treatment at Exclusive Smile will address the underlying infection and dramatically improve breath.

Frequently Asked Dental Questions

General

Still have a question?