Dental Information

Children should have their first dental visit around the age of 3.

Dental x-rays are used as a diagnostic tool to help the dentist see underneath fillings, in between the teeth or under the gums. They allow the dentist to identify tooth decay and other problems that are not visible in the mouth. This results is better treatment outcomes as problems are identified early. We use digital x-rays which have a very low radiation dose. We recommend having routine dental x-rays every 2 years at your regular examination appointment.

If you knock a permanent tooth out:

• Recover the tooth making sure to hold it by the crown (top) and not the root end. Gently rinse the root in saline or milk, but do not clean or handle the tooth more than necessary. Re-insert the tooth, if possible, without handling the root of the tooth.
• Otherwise place the tooth or any tooth fragment in saline or milk and proceed to a dentist as quickly as possible. Deciduous (first) teeth should not be re-implanted as this may cause damage to the permanent tooth which lies underneath it.

We offer treatment plans for patients indicating the cost of treatment, and also including health insurance item numbers, so that patients can check with their health fund on the rebates they are entitled to.

Many foods and drinks have added sugar, therefore it is important to check the nutrition label to determine the sugar content. Foods and drinks with more than 10% sugar, dried fruits, honey and syrups should be considered occasional foods. If sugary foods and drinks are consumed, they are best consumed at meal times when there is greater saliva flow that can buffer the effect of the sugar.

You should be brushing twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening just before bedtime. Flossing should be done once a day in the evening, as it removes any plaque or food caught between the teeth that cannot be removed by brushing.

Yes! We recommend that you continue your regular examination and cleaning appointments while pregnant to avoid any issues that may arise. Hormone changes during pregnancy can lead to bleeding gums, therefore it is even more important at this time to have your teeth professionally cleaned. Dental treatment, including the use of local anaesthetic is also safe during pregnancy.