Dental Emergency

If you should be unfortunate enough to have a dental emergency on the weekend, or overnight, here are a few tips until you can get in to see us.

For all dental pain Nurofen or Advil (containing Ibuprofen) is probably the best to provide instant relief – however check with your pharmacist or GP if you are allowed to take it or not. Panadeine will also be much better for most people than Panadol or Panamax – but again consult your Pharmacist or GP.

A loose filling can really hurt, and give you a nagging pain. If you have pain, dip a cotton pellet in clove oil (available from the supermarket or pharmacy) and place it next to the tooth. Bonjela will also give some limited releif. Don’t do what grandma says and put aspirin on your tooth as its acid and can burn your gums.

If you break a back tooth, the broken piece cannot usually be re-attached, so there is no reason to keep them. Just use the same clove oil cure and let our team know you need to see us as soon as possible.

If you break a front teeth, keep the pieces as they can often be part of our reconstruction treatment. Keep the piece/s moist (in milk or water if milk is not available). Let us know your predicament and we will see you as soon as we can.

If a crown or cap falls off, remove the crown and put some Vaseline on the inside of it and place it back on the tooth (mainly to protect the tooth, and your tongue and cheek - the vaseline helps hold it in place - but please be very careful when eating or drinking until it is dealt with by our dentists – it may be best to take it out again to eat – but then only soft foods like soups or mashed potato etc). Please retain the cap or crown and bring it to the appointment with you. Let us know about your predicament and we will see you as soon as we can.

If a tooth is dislodged or knocked out then rinse off any dirt or dust with milk (or water if you don’t have access to milk). Don’t scrub the tooth or touch it. You can hold it in place in the socket with a tissue or clean handkerchief or similar. If you can’t put the tooth back in, the next best place to keep it is in the mouth, between the cheek and gum so as to keep it moist – but be careful not to swallow it. For convenience or safety, place it in a small container of milk (or wrap it in glad wrap). The longer the tooth is out of the socket, the chances of saving it decrease.

Crowns

How long do crowns last?
Crowns are a quality, long lasting restoration. They should last for many years, ensuring your ongoing dental health. But each persons dental situation is different, so its hard to give a definite answer. The ADA information sheets on crowns suggest 10 years life expectancy, although many people may have them for 20 or 30 years without any issues arising. Regular check up and cleans, as well as an altered home cleaning routine (with interdental brushes or super floss) will also help increase the life expectancy.

How much does a quality crown cost?
Depending on the dentist, your teeth, and the materials used, Crowns can cost between $1000 and $2000 each. This does not include the cost of a root canal treatment or any other fillings (if needed in your case).

Why are crowns so expensive?
They are precision made and personalised to your particular situation. They require precise measurement, laboratory work and fitting. The preparation appointment may be from 1 to 2 hours, and the fitting appointment 30 mins to 1 hour - and both appointments are covered by the quoted fee. We may offer different price options to suit your budget. If payment is an issue, we can assist with a payment plan through Care Credit. Note that we do not charge private or health fund patients for th temporary crown that is worn in the period that the crowns are being prepared.

How long do crowns take?
Usually 2 visits, about 10 to 14 days apart.

Some dentists offer “same day crowns”. Why don’t you?
The ceramic used in “same day crowns” comes in a colour block – which is fine if your surrounding teeth are all exactly the same “shade”. We find that many people have different colours on their teeth, and the shade may vary from top to bottom – so we put this in the hands of an expert technician who will match the colour of your adjacent teeth exactly – rather than simply choosing 1 colour for the whole tooth.

I am allergic to nickel!
Many people are – so we use nickel free crowns. However if price is an issue, we may discuss other options with you to tailor this long term treatment to your budget.

Do crowns hurt?”
While preparing for a crown is involved and your appointment may be about an hour, you will be in our ergonomic dental chair, with a neck pillow if you need it. We do numb the tooth for your comfort. We also play your favourite music to help you relax if you like. Many patients report they even fall asleep during the treatment.

Why does it take so long?
When preparing your tooth for a crown we need to remove all of the old filling and any decay. We need to prepare the surface so that the crown will bond to the tooth seamlessly, avoiding the risk of future deterioration of the tooth. Sometimes we need to add a Post (item code 597) to strengthen the tooth prior to fitting a crown. A quality, professionally made Crown looks exactly like a real tooth, feel like they are part of your normal teeth, and are made to last.

My child needs a Stainless Steel Crown. Do you do that?
Yes. Kids teeth will continue to grow until they are around 18 years. As such a porcelain crown is not suggested until they have completed their growing. Our dental therapist Peter Mansour regularly fits stainless steel crowns for kids who need them.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a wonderful innovation, which can help people regain their smile. Every implant case is a little different, as each person is different, so we cant provide definitive answers on our website or over the phone – you will need an appointment with our dentist. We have however prepared some information to make the process easier.
* click HERE to see our quick quiz to find out if dental implants may be a good option for you
* click HERE to find out about how to prepare for your first appointment, and what to expect on the day

Dental implants utilise a large number of dental item codes, including 661, 662, 663, 664, 666, 668, 669, 671, 672, 673, 678, 679, 684, 688, 689, 691 (as well as many others which may be used in the preparatory period). Our treatment plan will set these out, so that you can consult your Health Fund to ascertain your "out of pocket" prior to commencing your treatment. We are preferred providers with virtually all health funds, which assures that you will be able to claim the maximum possible under your plan. Given the complexity of Dental Implants, we can't give quotes over the phone or email - and you will need to make an appointment for a consultation with our dentist. .

Medicare EPC

We are no longer accepting new Medicare EPC patients.

We suggest that you may wish to contact Plenty Smiles, who also bulk bill Medicare EPC - and are taking new patients.  Their details are available at www.plentysmiles.com.au.

As the Medicare EPC program is earmarked as soon concluding, all appointments made for existing Medicare EPC patients must be attended as booked, and we do not allow changes to appointments for Medicare EPC patients under 24 hours prior (for existing or new patients).

Teen Dental Vouchers from Medicare

What are Medicare Teen Dental Vouchers?
Medicare Teen Dental vouchers are a system bought in by the Rudd government, which gives an annual check up for children ages 12/13 to 17. This check up involves a check up, xrays, scale & clean, as well as fissure sealing if required. The value of the vouchers is approx $157, to be used toward these services only. We do not charge a gap where our normal cost of the service provided exceeds the value of the voucher.

Are fillings or extractions covered on the Teen Dental Voucher?
No. The vouchers are quite clear that they cover preventative dental check ups (check up, xrays, fissure sealing, scale & clean). Payment at the time of appointment is required for any other services such as fillings or extractions. The dentist will discuss costings and treatment plans with you. If you have Private Health Cover extras, you can of course use this membership for the additional treatments (using the voucher for the check up). But using your Teen dental Voiucher for the check up and clean will ensure that you keep your individual and family "annual limit" for other important dental services throughout the year.

Do parents need to come?
Yes. The Dental Board of Australia guidelines state that as the child is under the age of consent, one of the parents must be present to give consent to treatment, and to ensure that the Medical information provided is correct. You can stay in the treatment room for the whole appointment, or wait in the patient lounge and be called in for the summary of what was achieved at the visit. We cannot accept an uncle, aunty, brother, sister, grandparent or other friend or relative with the child without the parent. Teachers and nannys also are not deemed guardians for dental treatment.

The importance of keeping appointments for kids - setting them up for life.

Dentistry has changed since you were young - the drills are quieter, the injections are fine and almost painless - and the reality is if caught early, most people can have a filling without the need for an infection. So when making an appointment for your child please consider all their sport and school commitments, as well as yours. Nothing gives a child the wrong impression about their dental health than a parent giving a social appointments priority over the childs oral health. Treat the dentist as important, and so will your child. We therefore strongly suggest that you treat the dental appointment for your child as if their future depended on it - because that IS the reality for them. The habits you teach them now will stay with them for life. To help share the load with you, we have a Dental Therapist on staff. Peter works specifically with kids, helping motivate them to brush, and reduce fizzy drinks – giving them a better chance of less fillings, and keeping teeth for life. .

Tooth Whitening

Can everyone have whitening?
The dentist should check your teeth, and discuss your oral history - to determine if whitening will work for you. For some people, the chemicals used in whitening may damage your teeth and gums, or make existing problems worse. Others may end up with uneven colouring. It is very important to discuss whitening with a dental professional who is qualified and experienced - and not trust someone in a shopping mall.... did you ever wonder why they prepare the chemicals and you have to apply it yourself... thats so if something goes wrong they can legally say that YOU applied it to yourself, not them... 

Do whitening toothpastes work?
You will get much better results with a dentist applied whitening treatment, as the active ingredients are in a stronger potency

Does ZOOM give better result than other whitening options?
ZOOM is a proprietary system which perhaps offers a marketing edge. Other options are available that give similar results without the high costs. Results will vary depending on YOUR teeth and dental situation.

How long does it last?
For non-smokers the effect may last up to 4 years, but if you are a smoker or a heavy coffee drinker, the treatment may only be effective for shorter periods. Many people get so inspired about their new white smile, that it actually helps them give up smoking all together..

Does whitening damage the teeth?
No. The active ingredient is a gentle and safe form of peroxide with the only side-effect being passing sensitivity. However we need to check your teeth properly before applying it, and this is why it may be dangerous to go to a beauty clinic in a shopping mall – or buy a “do it at home” treatment from a chemist. Teeth with cracks or flaws, or caries or flaws in fillings, can cause discomfort following a treatment. Recently we saw a “kiosk” in our local shopping centre that had a sign that “gum blanching is normal during teeth whitening” – gum blanching occurs when the active ingredient reaches the gums and burns the gums. It can be painful and unsightly – and in some patients with medical conditions can cause irrepairable damage. A dental professional is the only person who should administer a whitening treatment. There are also studies that show that drinking a glass of Orange Juice can do more harm to the enamel of your teeth than a session of Teeth Whitening with your dentist.

Are there any teeth you can't whiten?
Some damaged teeth need to be treated before whitening (ie if you have a cavity). Other dental issues such as antibiotic stains, fluoride stains or grey teeth may need multiple treatments (ie whitening plus veneers). Crowns, Bridges and Veneers are made of porcelain and will not change colour, and after other teeth have been whitened may need to be changed to new ceramics to match the new colour. During the consultation, the dentist will let you know if any of these are areas of concern for you.

I have some old fillings and crowns?
We can whiten your teeth first, then have the fillings and crowns replaced to match your new perfect white smile.

Grey or Black Teeth
If you have a grey or black tooth, then speak to our dentists and they can give you advice on the treatment options. There are a number of reasons that this can happen, and a few solutions. Ask us for a consultation and we will be happy to give you advice on your exact situation.

Headaches – Teeth Grinding

Some peoples headaches or migraines are actually related to dental issues such as the tension from clenching or grinding in your sleep. Ask us about if a dental appliance is the right solution for you to get better sleep and reduce dental problems short and long term. Occlusal splints or night guards (dental item code 965) are one such solution that can help many people. They require 2 visits – usually 5 – 7 days apart. Most health funds offer a good rebate on this dental item code.

The right toothbrush & paste

Electric or manual?
If you choose an electric tooth brush, the best is one with a round head with oscillating action. For most people brushes with soft bristles are best, as they flex around your teeth. Hard brushes may wear the teeth and leave you with grooves/abrasion and even gum recession. Make sure your brush is able to reach your back teeth, and that its easy to grip.

Tips for brushing
* Change your brush every 6 to 12 weeks – whenever the bristles get a little “limp”.
* Ask us about what mouth wash and tooth paste are best for you (as different people have different needs).
* Sensitive toothpastes can be helpful, but ask us about a special desensitising treatment available when you visit us.
* Brush twice a day, three times if you can – and try to floss at least 3 or up to 5 days a week.

Oral B Oxycentre / Waterjet / Waterpik
* For some people a water jet (or Waterpik) brush option may be helpful
* These options will shoot a stream of water into the hard to reach crevices, where a toothbrush, floss are not effective
* Your dentist will suggest if this option is a good one for you
* Some people may also be suggested to use Colgate Interdental Brushes to assist in their oral hygeine routine
* We offer a wide range of these products for sale in our reception. Your dentist will advise you which option suits your individual situation.

What toothpastes are there? Do whitening toothpastes work?
The main ingredient in tooth paste is fluoride. It may be in varying strengths in different brands. Some also have an abrasive in them – which put simply, may help remove “more” of the build up than other toothpastes. For some people who suffer from erosion, the dentist may suggest a toothpaste without any abrasive at all (ie Pronamel). Sensodyne, and the new Colgate Sensitive Pro-Releif use different technologies which block the receptors in your tooth, and some people feel instant relef after applying it – while others need to use the product for 1 – 2 weeks to have an effect for them. As the 2 brands use different technology, if you switch pastes, the effect of the new paste may take 1 – 2 weeks to work (so once you choose a brand, stick to it). There are special high fluoride toothpastes (like Neutraflour 5000) that the dentist may recommend to people with high caries risk (ie if you have a sweet tooth). Also some other people may need to use GelKam, a different type of toothpaste with Stannous Flouride. We stock most of these items for sale at our reception – and the dentist has samples of most items he will give you if he feels you would benefit from it so you can try it out.

What can I do with the kids while I am at the dentist?

We have a “playstation corner” with a range of games to suit most ages. We also have cartoons for the little ones. There are a variety of toys, cards, dolls, puzzles, etc for most ages. GilrPower magazine and Dolly magazine are part of our range of magazines for the kids – oh, and Alpha magazine for the boys.

So the dentist can concentrate on the patient they have with them, we suggest the child decides if they want to stay with the parent in the visitors chair, or in reception with the toys and games.

We suggest if you have a few kids and one needs to see the dentist, that you may want to consider pampering the one that is having the treatment - and give them your undivided attention, and putting the other kids in the childcare. This will allow you to spend quality time with your child, and take the pressure off you and them at this time when they need that extra reassurance and support.

Which Health Funds are you partners with?

We use HICAPS to claim your rebates on the spot
As long as you bring you membership card with you, we can swipe it at the time of your treatment, and claim back your rebate instantly - then you just need to pay the gap (if any).  nib heatlh insurance is one of the Health Insurance partners who we process claims for on a daily basis.

Preferred Providers
We are preferred providers with Medibank (Memebers Choice), HBA (Members First), MBF (MemberCare), Australian Unity (Dentacare), Noble Dentist - ensuring that you receive the maximum rebates and least out of pocket possible for your membership level.

Other funds
There are dozens of Health Funds that we see patients for every day - and as long as you bring your card with you to your appointment, we can claim on the spot for you for all of these (and more). ACA Health Benefits, AHM Australian Health Management, Australian Unity, Dentacare, Bupa, CBHS, CDH, Central West Health, CUA, CY Health, Defence Health, GMF Health, GMHBA, Druids, Grand United, Grand United Corporate, HBA, HBF, HCF Hospitals Contribution Fund, HCI, HIF, Health Partners, Latrobe Health, Manchester Unity, MBF, NRMA Health, ANZ Health, SGIC Health, Mutual Community, SGIO Health, MBF, Medibank Private, Mildura District Hospital Fund, National Health Benefits, Onemedifund, Navy Health, NIB, Peoplecare, Phoenix Health Fund, Police Health, QCH, Railway and Transport Health, Reserve Bank Health, St.Lukes Health, Teachers Federation Health, Teachers' Union Health, The Doctors' Health Fund, Transport Health, Westfund. Noble Dentist / Noble Dental.

I am not from Melbourne!

Do you treat overseas visitors?
Yes, we do. Make an appointment well in advance, and let our caring team know you are visiting Melbourne. You will need to pay for your treatment at the time, but we will supply the relevant paperwork you need to make a claim on your overseas health insurance policy. We can even help fax it off to your insurer for you. If you are having cosmetic work done, we will ensure that your appointments are timed to minimise your “down time”. Depending on your procedures you are having done, we may be able to assist with covering the cost of your taxi to and from your hotel – let us know if you will require this service when you make your appointment.

I live in the country. Can I have treatment done with you?
Yes. Make an appointment well in advance, and let our caring team know you are visiting Melbourne. We will set aside a little extra time for you. If you need to have multiple treatments done, we will give you priority to complete your treatment with the time you have available in Melbourne, by tailoring the appointment times to suit you. We regularly see patients from regional Victoria who find that getting an appointment with us is easier, and our pricing is more competitive than their local country dentist. Our location means you can drive in from the south west, west or north without having to drive into or through the centre of Melbourne (and still be able to do some amazing shopping at Highpoint just near by).

I am a foreign student studying in Melbourne – and I have overseas insurance. Can you treat me?
Yes, we can. You will need to pay for your treatment at the time, but we will supply the relevant paperwork you need to make a claim on your overseas health insurance policy. We can even help fax it off to your insurer for you. If you have Overseas Student Health Cover with Dental Extras (as offered by companies like HBA, Medibank Private, Bupa, etc) we can help you claim your rebate on the spot - just bring your Health Insurance card with you to your appointment - and in many cases you will only have a small gap to pay.