Providing a specialist children’s dentist in Surrey, Hampshire and Sussex
At Stricklands Dental Fitness Centre, we’re proud to be able to offer specialist paediatric dental services in Surrey. Paediatrics is an area of dentistry that is underserved in general practices and otherwise only accessible in a hospital setting. With our in-house specialist children’s dentist, Christina Tatsi, we can ensure that your child enjoys a healthy smile from the get-go – and indeed may never experience a toothache with our tailored support while they grow up. But as well as having the skills to create positive experiences of dental visits, Dr Tatsi welcomes nervous patients and those with additional needs. We can offer the time, behaviour management skills and technology, such as sedation, to treat children gently, without pain or fear.
When to take your child to the dentist
Thanks to our sugar-rich diets, tooth decay is on the rise among children in the UK, with record numbers requiring tooth extractions by general anaesthetic. This situation can be prevented! We support the guidance of the British Society of Paediatric Dentists: bring your child for their first dental health examination as soon as their first teeth appear, or by the age of 1 at the latest. We’ll ensure there are no underlying problems, demonstrate how you can keep their teeth clean and healthy, and recommend the right products for them. Many parents simply don’t realise that their children should be seeing a dentist as regularly as they do – and that it is never too early to bring a child to see us for their first dental health examination.
Specialist children’s orthodontics
In addition to our specialist paediatric dentist, we also offer specialist orthodontic services for children and teenagers, so they won’t need to be referred elsewhere for assessments and treatment. Where appropriate, we can offer modern early orthodontics too – an interventionist approach that, through timely assessment and treatment between the ages of 7 and 12, can reduce or eliminate the need for metal braces during the teen years. For more information, please visit our orthodontics page.
DipDS, MDDipDS, MDentSci, FRCD(Canada), MPaedDent(London), PhD, AFHEA
GDC Registration Number - 86115
GDC Registration Number - 86115
Our paediatric specialist, Christina Tatsi, has more than 10 years’ experience in the dental care of children.
Her holistic approach to dental care focuses on the child and their individual needs. Dental treatment needs to be delivered with empathy in order to build a positive attitude towards dentistry in the future. The developing dentition and the risk of caries are also important factors in the decision-making process. Prevention is tailor-made in order to fit the child's routine in partnership with the parent(s)/guardian(s).
Christina qualified in 2001 in Greece where she worked for two years. She completed her three-year specialist training in 2006 at the Leeds Dental Institute, the only institute in Europe eligible for the fellowship of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada, which she obtained in 2007. She became a member of the Royal College of Surgeons of England in 2009. She is a member of the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry (www.bspd.co.uk) and an active member of the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry (www.eapd.gr).
She takes an active interest in the research and development of evidence-based dentistry for children, and is a member of the International Association of Dental Research (www.iadr.com), an introductory member of the European Organisation for Caries Research (www.orca-caries-research.org.) and the International Association of Dental Traumatology (www.iadt.com).
She has completed a PhD research degree, investigating the prevention of early caries in orthodontic patients.
Christina is also working at King's College Dental Institute and Guy's Dental Hospital as a Specialist Clinical Teacher for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
FAQs
Why bother taking a baby to the dentist?
We recommend that all children are seen by a dentist before their first birthday – even if they haven’t got any teeth. This will not only eliminate any potential risks, but also establishes the dentist as a familiar and fun place to be. You don’t need to make a separate appointment for your baby – we can assess them quickly on your lap during your own dental health examination.
When should I start teaching my child to brush their teeth?
Start getting your baby familiar with brushing as soon as those milk teeth appear – the earlier you give them a toothbrush, the more likely they are to comply with oral hygiene in the future. As more teeth come through, brush regularly and then encourage them to attempt their own brushing while you supervise. Set a good example by brushing and flossing your own teeth twice a day – children learn best from watching what happens in the home.
What toothpaste should my child use?
Children under three years old should use a smear of toothpaste containing no less than 1000ppm fluoride. Children between 3 and 6 years old use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste containing more than 1000ppm fluoride. Children over 6 can use regular toothpaste, containing around 1350-1500ppm fluoride.
Is it ok to give my child a dummy?
A dummy can be really helpful for soothing your baby, as sucking is a natural reflex in a young child. Never dip the dummy in anything sweet and never use a dummy that has juice in it. When your baby is older, we can advise on the best time to start weaning them off the dummy.
When should my child stop sucking their thumb?
Sucking is a natural function, but if thumb sucking is intense and it becomes a habit it can lead to speech or orthodontic problems. We can advise you on ways you can gently discourage thumb sucking.
Why is fluoride important?
Fluoride is proven to prevent cavities, which is why it’s routinely added to toothpaste. We routinely offer children fluoride varnish, a quick and painless procedure that provides added protection against tooth decay.
What do I need to know about fissure sealants?
When a child’s permanent molars erupt, we may recommend fissure sealants for added protection, as those developing adult teeth often have deep fissures that trap food and are hard to clean. A fissure sealant is a plastic seal that sticks to the tooth, creating a smooth surface that deflects food and is easier to clean.
Can my child see a hygienist?
We believe that prevention is better than cure. With this in mind, we often advise parents to take children to the hygienist to establish good cleaning habits and an early awareness of the importance of dental health.
We have been looked after for many more years than we care to recall, except to say that their "care" is detailed and expert. The advice is thorough, and the organisation works efficiently to ensure we are always in the right place at the right time.
Apart from the excellence of the professional medical staff, I find that the administration staff at Stricklands are always very helpful.
Stricklands is the most professional dental practice I have ever attended. The levels of service and attention to detail are exceptional. I still use them even after I moved away from the area.
I used to be a patient at this practice, and actually would travel a long distance because a dentist I was recommended to had transferred here. Overall, the receptionist and admin side are incredibly helpful and professional, however, I found my dentist to be unreasonable at times in terms of patient care and charging.
Have been a patient at Stricklands for over a decade. The service is always top notch,the technical knowhow cutting edge.Our family dentist Simon Allen and hygienist Nikki are brilliant! That review is over a decade old..still having the same experience, a Dentist one can trust for honest ,excellent, professional care is something to value!
Another set of full marks to Stricklands. Excellent appointment with Nikki who her usual efficient, thorough and friendly self. Left feeling reassured and confident. What more can one ask?!
I was very surprised to receive a text informing me that I had 30 minutes to reply otherwise the appointment would be offered to another person. It was peremptory in both tone and content. At the time the text arrived I had a 1 hour appointment with my chiropodist, hence I missed the time slot but luckily was able to accept the next appointment offered. Very distracting if I had been, say, driving and missed a 30 minute slot - designed for AI not people was my conclusion.Treatment by Hygienist was exemplary.
Really delighted with the care and attention from my Dentist (Geoff Tait) and my Hygienist (Alla). I do find it difficult to speak to a receptionist though when I need to change appointments and often have to leave a message. Otherwise it would be 5 star.
Attended my hygienist appointment and greeted by friendly reception team.My appointment was on time and looked after very well as always.Not even the upheaval of building work within the building effected the top and professional handling of my appointment!Very happy with the service I received.
Very happy with all aspects of the dental practice. As always received excellent treatment from Dr Sam Ellis and Naomi Shuff.
The professionalism, care and sincere kindness of this team has been amazing, especially given my levels of anxiety following previous mouth trauma. Highly recommended and thank you!
I needed and emergency appointment, fitted me in, and cured 11/10 tooth pain.
I have to say that the hygiene sessions I have attended have not been what I expect. A lot of time is spent on measuring rather than cleaning therefore a full clean has not occured on the last two occasions.
Christina along side Stacey have done an Amazing job in handling my kids tooth extraction. Christina patiently approached my nervous child to get his consent and I didn't believe when he actually agreed to get the extraction done by himself. Christina's experience has really impressed me and I absolutely recommend her to anyone who wants a way out for their child's dental problem. I really struggled with 4 dentists previously. But this was the end of my search in finding the perfect one. Thank you Christina and Stacey you have been Awesome!
Excellent treatment received from both dentist and hygienist. Highly recommend.
I moved to Norwich at the start of the year but will continue attending Stricklands and in particular Simon Allen who in my option is the best dentist ever. Great practise great staff
I was referred to Stricklands by my dentist as my treatment was a bit more complicated. I had a consultation with Dr Maslinda Mohamad yesterday and we agreed on a course of treatment which is next week. I’m not a huge fan of going to the dentist after having had extensive head and neck cancer surgery. That being said Maslinda and her nurse really put me at ease and explained everything thoroughly. The service was fantastic from start to finish - from reception to the appointment. I would highly recommend.
Managed to see me within 24hrs of a call for an emergency. Super supportive and transparent about dental options. Good communications via email regarding appointments and future works.
I visited my usual dentist and have used the practice for nearly 40 years. This time i had terrible toothache and after two visits in the day i still have a tooth which hurts to the touch. Not a happy experience and will need to consider changing practice!
This was my first visit to Stricklands. A previous dentist was unable to save my tooth & sugested removing it. Simon Allen (Stricklands) worked for nearly an hour, building up the broken tooth with filling. The tooth was broken away, right down to the gum in one area.The result was amazing, with very little pain. I cannot thank Mr. Allen enough his patients & professionalism.I was so impressed that I have now registerd as a new patient with Stricklands.
Excellent service. Time efficient plus speedy response to issues.I used to hate going to the dentists but it is now a pleasure. Darren is highly skilled and provides relaxation instead of panic with all issues. 5 star
I booked in to repair a cup on a tooth. Was given full check - not requested. Left after 25 minutes with repaired tooth but £250 poorer. More expensive per minute than my lawyer and doing work I didn’t request.Won’t be back.
A Referral to Stricklands was a beneficial event in my life as I have never looked back. I have total confidence in my dental surgeon , my Hygenist and my orthodontist. I am never anxious when attending an appointment - in my opinion this is greatest compliment of all and proof of the trust I place in Stricklands Dental Fitness Centre. Thank you everyone at Stricklands. I am receiving the best care and advice I could ever wish for.
You couldn't pay me to go anywhere else - as a nervous patient everything is explained and the recent filling I had was completely pain-free.
Dr Jones was very thorough and I felt confident in treatment as he explained everything so well. Lovely staff
Stricklands is a fantastic dental practice: Darren Jones has cared for mine and my children’s teeth for many years and I wouldn’t go anywhere else.
I used to be terrified of the dentist until I got referred to Strickland. The team are always so welcoming and have always made me feel at ease, I can’t thank them enough! I don’t even think about my appointments anymore and just turn up as I know I’m in good hands! Thank you Strickland’s!
Very professional, friendly dentists. The hygienist appointment was great - teeth cleaned, advice given and the hygienist was really friendly. Highly recommend.
Had the most amazing experience. The dental hygienist was very gentle and really gave me useful tips to care for teeth
Extremely well run Dental Practice, with experienced, skilled dentists (and Hygienists) using the latest techniques. However, for such a service, the prices are higher.
I just had an amazing root canal treatment with Dr Maslinda Mohamad. Dr Maslinda explained the procedure in detail. It was completely painless throughout and took very little time. A big thankyou to Dr Maslinda.
My dental treatment with Katherine Daley was first class. Professional, very competent and reassuring with a great sense of humour. I could not recommend her and the practice too highly.
Stricklands is brilliant, everyone is friendly and they put you straight at ease especially if you are a nervous patient. I have avoided dentists for 7 years and I have now been going to Stricklands for just over a year and they are excellent every time. Would definitely recommend especially if like me you aren't the easiest patient!
Helpful reception staff at this practice, good dental hygiene care and thorough and professional care from my dentist. He tries to save teeth wherever he can and does not rush to extractions.
Naomi is a credit to the practise always honest and open with any treatment or suggestions and a pleasure to see on a regular basis.
I think I've used Stricklands for over 20 years as I always receive a great service. I'm not changing any time soon.
I came here a few years ago now with a number of problems which Simon Allen kindly took on. Now, with some restoration and two implants later I am thrilled with the results. Dr Allen is a brilliant dentist and has totally restored my faith in dentists. It is a pleasure to go there. In fact the whole team, root canal, implant and general staff are of the highest possible standard. I am so glad I found Stricklands.
Excellent service from Darren and Nicki as usual. Great advice and response to questions.
I did my filling 39 years ago, and it is still perfect. The whole team are always so nice to me, I would highly recommend. Keep up the good work! ????
My dentist, Samantha, always makes me feel immediately at ease, providing detailed feedback about my dental heath and offering a treatment plan going forwards. I highly recommend this practice.
I had been referred to Stricklands by my regular dentist for a specialist scan, the staff were very helpful throughout the visit, and would happily go back if I needed to
I had my quarterly appointment with Nicki Steel. She is excellent. Thorough, very professional - always great results.
Had a great initial appointment with Maslinder - she is extremely professional and kind. I’m a nervous patient but Maslinder managed to put me at ease and explained the options thoroughly and carefully.
We are so lucky to have this team in Haslemere. Always very welcoming and nothing is too much trouble Their service is delivered in a very professional manner. Simply excellent.
The best experience at a dentist I have ever received. Organised, helpful and professional.
I always feel welcome at Stricklands and feel I can trust my dentist to tell me the truth about the state of my teeth. I believe he is competent in carrying out any necessary work.I have slight niggles about the information on line which feels to me like a cut and paste job which doesnt quite fit your circumstances. For instance we are told to wait outside in our car if we are early (where exactly?), we are also told that the door will be kept locked but it hasn't been on my last two visits, you say patients should be wearing face coverings but nobody was on my recent visit. I loathe and detest that online form you requst should be filled in repeatedly. It is not user friendly. There should be a paper option available.I am Barbara Jeffers not David Jeffers (we share an email address) but there is no option to explain this on your feedback form.
A clean, bright modern practice.From the moment you walk in you are greeted by friendly staff and as a nervous patient I was put at ease in the relaxing environment.I was constantly kept informed of what was happening.
first visit, felt at ease from the start. good advice given, plan of care given . Dentist so lovely and her assistant .excellent
I was seen by Dr. Sam Ellis who I found extremely helpful, professional and concise in explaining what was wrong with my tooth problem and has drawn up a programme to ensure my teeth stay healthy in the future. It made me feel very confident that my teeth are now in safe hands!
I have been using this dental service since 2005 and every experience I have had there has been positive. All the staff, whatever their role, are kind, helpful and effective. I could not recommend Stricklands highly enough.
A first class dental practice. My current dental surgeon, Darren Jones, is both excellent and a pleasure to see and all the staff give first class service. Highly recommended.
An overall great experience! Simon Allen is a fantastic dentist who's managed to rid me of my fear of dentists and the whole team is a joy to deal with. Thank you!
Being a very nervous patient of anything to do with dental work, I was as usual greeted at reception with a good morning and a smile which always helps.The Treatment is always first class and carried with care.I cannot praise my dentist Samantha and my hygienist Nikki highly enough.
Superb service every time. The staff are friendly, and all the treatment I've received has been extremely thorough and gentle- fantastic for a nervous patient like me!
I have had the same dentist since I was 5 so was initially nervous to have a new dentist. The young Irish gentleman,Gef, who has stepped into some big shoes was brilliant. Friendly and helpful, as was Sophia the hygienist.
I had a great experience for my root canal treatment. Everything was explained to me in good detail before and during the treatment, the staff were amazing and really put me at ease. Thank you so much.
Fantastic service, the whole team were very welcoming and helpful from the start. I was there for emergency treatment with Darren Jones and both he and the team made me feel relaxed and confident in very difficult circumstances. Well done and keep up the good work! THANK YOU!
I have just had an appointment for a checkup with Dr Fraser. I feel very comfortable with him and he makes you feel at ease. He also did 2 xrays and gives you detailed information of the results. He also has a very pleasant dental nurse working alongside of him. The receptionists are very friendly, I have in the past asked if they would let me know if their are any cancellations and they do so promptly. I also see Sophie the hygienist every 3 months and she advices exactly what I should be doing when cleaning my teeth I also feel very comfortable with her and she is very friendly.
I got an appointment the very next day when I rang about my fallen implant tooth and it was a very good visit. The staff are very polite and helpful. Dr Frazer took an x-ray and very carefully examined my implant and the fallen tooth. Even through he could not fix it, because the implant was done in Canada, but he explained clearly to me what’s the next step to do when I get back to Canada. I was very relieved and knowing that I had the best care at the Stricklands Dental Fitness centre.
Recently visited Stricklands for the first time and was very impressed by the ambience and care under Dr Fraser. I felt I was adequately equipped to make decisions about my teeth as the advice given was clear and helpful. The email contact was also clear so I knew exactly what I needed to do and when. Thanks for a great service.
Very good service. I had a regular check up to a very high standard of quality. The way they calmly talk you through the process of what they're checking for (including checking for lumps and bumps around your jaw area which they didn't used to do!), was very reassuring. The practice is in a great location and clean and light throughout. Staff on reception were very efficient, friendly and helpful. It is a bit expensive being a private dental centre (£75 for a 10min check up). Only complaint is that the wait times for appointments can be insane. My hygienist appointment was cancelled as they had COVID, her next available slot was 3 months later in the beginning of march! If your appointment has been cancelled I think they should go to greater lengths to try to get you seen sooner.
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