Why do I have to have X-Rays taken?

X-rays allow the dentist to detect problems in areas not visible during the visual examination, for example, a cavity under an existing filling. It is recommended to have a routine X-Ray taken every 2 to 3 years depending on the state of your mouth. This would hopefully prevent you from having to have more extensive and expensive dental treatment if we can pick up the problem before it gets too big. We have the latest X-Ray machines which ensure that you have minimal exposure to radiation. You would be required to wear a lead apron.

What is the difference between amalgam and composite fillings?

Amalgam is a metal alloy including silver, small amounts of mercury, and other metals. Composite is a plastic resin-based material. There are many factors to consider when selecting the filling material. Your dentist can discuss with you the most appropriate material to be used.

When I get my teeth cleaned, will they be whiter?

The main benefit of cleaning is healthier gums. During the clean, your dentist will remove most of the surface stains on the teeth, such as cigarette stains. However, the internal color of teeth would not be changed. You should consider teeth whitening procedures if you want further improvements.

Why do I need fluoride?

Fluoride strengthens the tooth surface and makes teeth less prone to cavities, especially when applied within 2 years following tooth eruption. Fluoride is a major part of modern preventive dentistry and may be recommended accordingly.

Why should I use a soft toothbrush?

We brush our teeth to keep the teeth and gums clean and healthy. A soft toothbrush works just as well when compared to hard toothbrushes, and without the danger of scrubbing away the surface of the teeth.

Do I have to pay if I have private health insurance?

Bright smile Dental has relationships with all of the major health funds which allow private health insurance patients with extras or ancillary cover to gain benefits. We can claim your rebate on the spot through our HICAPS machine and the gap can be paid by Mastercard, Visa card, Eftpos, or Cash. Bright Smile Dental recommends that patients check with their health funds as to what benefits they are entitled to prior to making an appointment.

HCF PATIENTS(Wantirna Clinic ONLY): Are eligible for 2 free check-ups per year-2 free scale and clean per year- 2 free mouth guards per year-1 free fluoride per year-unlimited Xrays per year(Conditions apply and check with your health fund)

What is the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights?

The Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights describes the rights of patients and other people using the Australian health system. These rights are essential to make sure that, wherever and whenever care is provided, it is of high quality and is safe. Patients need to feel absolutely safe and secure when they visit the dentist. All of our Centres are compliant with Australian infection control legislation and regulations. We have strict protocols both in the surgeries and throughout the whole Centre with respect to infection control practices. Our equipment is either sterilized or disposable. Download the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately.

Do you grind your teeth?

Have you noticed that your teeth are getting shorter over the years after you have compared them to the photos in your youthful days? It can simply be fixed by building them up with some plastic material if its state is not too bad. Please discuss your concerns with your dentist. See also ‘composite build up’. Sometimes, it is just cosmetic but over-grinding your teeth could sometimes become symptomatic to the point that you are waking up with dreadful toothaches or jaw aches. See also ‘nightguard’.

Do you suffer from jaw aches?

Have you noticed that your teeth have been getting shorter over the years after you have compared them to the photos taken in your youth? It can simply be fixed by building them up with some plastic materials (composite) if its state is not too bad. Please discuss your concerns with your dentist. Over-grinding your teeth could sometimes become symptomatic to the point that you are waking up with dreadful toothaches or jaw aches.

Method:

Upper and Lower Impressions are taken. Molds are sent to the technicians and it is adjusted and inserted the following visit.

A follow-up visit may be required but most of the time, it isn't.

The night guard should be brought along at your 6 monthly exam visits to be checked and adjusted at no further cost.

Also, see ‘night guards’ and ‘composite build up’.

When should I bring my child to see the dentist?

We always encourage parents to bring their young children when they come in for their 6 monthly exams and scale and clean visits. It is always good for them to see dental surgery as a non-threatening environment. However, it is recommended that both parents are there so that if the child gets bored when one parent is in the chair, he/she can go for a walk with the other parent. Some kids are ready to have a check-up as young as 2 years of age while others may take a few visits to accept to get in the chair.

How often should I see the dentist?

It is recommended to see a dentist every 6 months. Also, see ‘consultation’.