Why should I visit the Dentist every six months even if I am not in pain or have any issues?

A regular check-up with your dentist is an important part of maintaining good oral health. Prevention or early intervention is the best approach and regular check-ups will ensure that no small developments are taking place.  Regular visits will also allow your dentist to clean any build up of calculus.

 

Why do I need x-rays?

X-rays help the dentist to examine areas not always visible to the naked eye such as the space between the teeth. They also allow the dentist to see below the enamel surface of the teeth and help the dentist to locate areas of decay and to check bone levels surrounding the teeth.  X-rays are not normally required each visit. Our practice uses digital X-ray technology.

 

What type of tooth whitening is available and can you give me some information?

We offer many options, for single teeth, upper or lower arches, or both depending on which teeth you show when you smile.  The Dentist will advise the best method for each patient and give instructions where necessary.

 

What can I do about sensitive teeth?

Sensitivity can be caused by many things and a consultation with the Dentist would be required to determine the cause. Depending on the cause of the sensitivity the Dentist will offer an appropriate treatment. The various treatments range from simple, non-invasive solutions to fillings.

 

Do I have to pay on the day of treatment?

Yes, accounts are required to be settled on the day of treatment. However, where a treatment plan requires multiple visits we like our patients to meet with our Dentists for a short consultation whereby the full treatment plan is explained and quotes for different options are provided.

 

Are amalgam fillings still used?

Yes, amalgam fillings are still used.  However, our patients do have a choice of many different materials and the Dentist is available to discuss the various options available.

 

Are mouth rinses good for me?

There are many different mouth rinses available for different conditions, so it is best to discuss your needs with the Dentist.

 

How does the practice sterilise its instruments?

We have modern autoclaves (sterilisers) and use special instrument tracking systems to ensure that all instruments have been fully sterilized prior to use on a patient.

 

Do you extract wisdom teeth?

Yes. However, depending on the specific needs of the patient we may refer the patient to a Specialist.

 

Do you treat children?

Yes, and they receive prize bags!  We recommend that parents make their child’s first appointment at around 3 years of age. However, if you have any concerns at all, it is best to consult your Dentist immediately.

 

Is dental bought chewing gum good for you?

Yes. Chewing dental approved gum encourages saliva production, which helps to clean teeth and neutralise mouth acids, especially after meals. However, overuse may result in excessive wear to the teeth and cause sore jaw problems.

 

Do acidic drinks damage the teeth?

Yes, acidic drinks are a very common cause of non-decay related loss-of-tooth structure.

​

Is fluoride harmful?

The fluoride contained in drinking water and most commonly-available toothpastes is not harmful to people. It is crucial to combatting tooth decay, giving your teeth extra strength when they’re developing so they’re better able to resist the bacterial acid that causes tooth decay. Fluoride helps to slow the growth of bacteria in your mouth known as plaque which is a major cause of tooth decay.

 

If I have a toothache do I have to have a Root Canal Treatment?

Although each situation must be assessed on a case by case basis by the Dentist most episodes of toothache should not require Root Canal Treatment. Toothache may be caused by a decayed or broken tooth, a damaged filing, an abscess or excessive grinding and depending on the cause and it's severity will determine the range of treatment options available.

 

Do you do Root Canal Treatments?

Yes, however depending on the complexity of the case, we may refer the patient to a specialist Endodontist.

 

Do I have to make an appointment?

Yes. By making an appointment we can ensure that our patients have ample time to discuss their treatment plan with the dentist. Also having set appointment times also allows our dentists and patients to enjoy a more relaxed treatment experience.

 

Which Health Funds are you Preferred Provider for?

We are a preferred provider for Medibank Private, BUPA and HCF.

 

Do you process Private Health claims on the spot?

Yes, we will swipe your private health insurance card on the day of your appointment. This can be done for almost all private health insurers.

​

Do you treat DVA Repatriation Gold Card patients?

Yes. Please advise our receptionist when making your appointment if you are covered by any of these schemes.

Do you do Cosmetic Dentistry, Veneers, Bleach, Bonding?

Yes, we provide our patients with many different cosmetic dentistry options. Please contact us to make an appointment to discuss which option is most suited to your particular needs.

​

Do I have to have an injection/local anaesthetic before a treatment?

No, we do not insist on giving the patient a local anaesthetic injection. The patient is given the choice of whether to receive an injection or not.

​

Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes. Clinical studies have shown that whitening your teeth with carbamide or hydrogen peroxide under the supervision of a dental professional is safe for teeth and gums.

 

What’s the difference between over the counter whitening solutions and Philips Zoom?

Over-the-counter whitening products are not customised to your needs. With Philips Zoom, the whitening process is tailored to your needs by your dentist, with custom-fitted trays for at-home treatments or just the right light intensity and duration in the dentist’s office.

 

How long will my Zoom whitening results last?

Whitening treatments help to reduce existing stains, but through consumption of coffee, soft drinks or just through natural aging, your teeth may eventually become discoloured again. Maintenance whitening can help combat recurring discoloration. Only Philips Zoom at-home whitening products include ACP, which has been shown to help reduce whitening fade-back.

​

How long does Zoom whitening take?

With Philips Zoom, your teeth will be visibly whiter in one day. With Zoom in-office, you will achieve up to eight shades whiter in 45 minutes. With Zoom at-home, when used as instructed, you will achieve the same great results in one-two weeks, depending on concentration of formulation and wear time you select.