What makes a great family dentist? A look inside our Ilkeston clinic
- Rachel Barrow
- May 1
- 4 min read

Choosing a dentist for your family is an important decision. You’re not just looking for someone to polish your teeth - you’re looking for someone who understands your needs, puts your children at ease, and provides care you can trust for years to come.
At Ward & Allison Dental Practice, we’ve been looking after the smiles of Ilkeston families for over 40 years, and we know what it takes to provide truly patient-centred family dentistry. If you’re searching for a family dentist in Ilkeston, here’s what to look for—and why we believe our team is a great fit for you and your loved ones.
It starts with trust and continuity
One of the main advantages of choosing a dedicated family dentist in Ilkeston is the continuity of care. When you and your children see the same team regularly, you build a relationship based on trust. Your dentist gets to know your oral health history and can spot any changes early, meaning problems can be addressed before they become more serious or costly to treat.
At Ward & Allison, many of our patients have been coming to us for decades. In fact, we now care for the children and even grandchildren of some of our original patients. This long-standing trust is something we’re incredibly proud of. It reflects not just our clinical standards, but also the way we treat our patients—with warmth, respect, and genuine care.
A calm, welcoming environment
The best family dentists create an atmosphere where everyone feels at ease. We know that visiting the dentist can be a source of anxiety for some, especially younger children or elderly patients. That’s why we’ve worked hard to create a friendly, welcoming space where people feel comfortable from the moment they walk through the door.
Our team is trained to support nervous patients, and we take extra time with anyone who needs reassurance. Whether it’s a child visiting for their very first check-up or an adult returning after a long break, we make sure everyone feels heard and supported.
If you’re searching for a dentist in Ilkeston who’s known for their gentle approach and genuine compassion, Ward & Allison could be the perfect fit.
Family care under one roof
Life is busy, and convenience matters. A great family dentist in Ilkeston should be able to look after everyone in your household—whatever their age or dental needs. At Ward & Allison, we offer comprehensive care for the whole family. That means you don’t need to juggle different practices or appointment times for each member of your household.
We provide:
Preventative care, including oral health checks and hygiene
Children’s dentistry, including fluoride treatments and fissure sealants
Fillings, crowns, and other restorative treatments
Cosmetic options such as Invisalign and composite bonding
Facial aesthetics treatments for adults looking to refresh their appearance
Our patients often tell us how much they value having everything in one place—and knowing they’ll see the same familiar faces at every visit.
Preventative care tailored to all life stages
Oral health changes at every stage of life, and a good family dentist in Ilkeston should tailor care to reflect that. For children, it’s all about prevention and education—establishing good habits, monitoring development, and keeping teeth healthy through fluoride varnish and sealants. For teens and young adults, we support the transition to independent oral care, including advice on diet, braces, and lifestyle habits.
As we age, gum health becomes increasingly important, and we provide proactive care to preserve natural teeth and address any wear and tear. We also offer aesthetic treatments for adults who want to enhance their smile or explore options like whitening or Invisalign.
Whatever your age or goals, we’re here to offer advice, care, and long-term solutions.
Clear advice and honest treatment planning
One of the things that sets Ward & Allison apart as a dentist in Ilkeston is our commitment to honest, transparent advice. We’ll never pressure you into a treatment you don’t need. Instead, we take the time to explain your options clearly and answer any questions you have.
Whether you’re considering cosmetic work or weighing up treatment for your child, you’ll always get balanced, expert guidance tailored to your needs and budget. We also offer flexible finance plans to help spread the cost of treatment where needed.
We’re here when you need us
It’s not just routine appointments that matter. Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and having a trusted practice to turn to makes all the difference. As a longstanding dentist in Ilkeston, we offer same-day appointments for urgent dental care wherever possible. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a broken filling, or a dental injury, we’re here to provide fast, effective care when you need it most.
Supporting your family’s long-term health
Good dental care goes beyond check-ups—it’s about helping you and your family maintain excellent oral health for life. That’s why we work closely with parents to reinforce brushing habits, provide dietary advice, and offer tips to make oral care part of your daily routine.
We also offer regular hygiene appointments to keep your teeth and gums in great shape, as well as Denplan and other affordable membership plans to help manage the cost of ongoing care.
Looking for a family dentist in Ilkeston?
At Ward & Allison, we’re proud to offer family dentistry that goes above and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a children’s dentist near me, a reliable team for regular check-ups, or someone to support you through more advanced care, we’d love to welcome you to our practice.
We’re committed to building lasting relationships with the families we care for—because when you feel confident in your dentist, everything else becomes easier.
Call us today or visit our website to book your first visit. Let us help you and your family smile with confidence for years to come.
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