Dental FAQ

Dental Emergencys

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.

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 pharmachy) 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 careful when eating or drinking until it is dealt with by our dentists). 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.

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.

How long do crowns take?
Usually 2 visits, about a week apart.

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 it is a little involved, and you will be in our ergonomic dental chair for a while, it is not painful. We do numb the tooth for your comfort.  We also play your favourite music to help you relax if you like.

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.



Dental Implants

We will be providing more information on implants on our website shortly. 

In the mean time, we encourage you to book a consultation with our dentist to discuss if Dental Implants are a good option for you.  Following your consultation, Xrays may be requested, and your case studied in depth, so that we can provide you with a written report as to the expected outcomes and the expected price for having an implant.  In most cases, we undertake all aspects of the Implant here at our clinic.

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 prepatory 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 maxium 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

What is the Medicare EPC?
Medicare EPC (Enhanced Primary Care) is a mechanism where certain people who qualify (due to their medical history) can have a number of dental visits, or a dollar value in dental treatments, covered by Medicare.   The Medicare dental grant may cover up to $4250 of treatment.

Who can get Medicare EPC?
This is something you need to discuss with your GP.  It is not means tested (ie it is not based on your income or assets).  However there are established criteria about who can qualify based on your medical history, and different GP's interpret the criteria in different ways.   Discuss with your GP about the Medicare EPC based on YOUR medical history.   

I have Medicare EPC papers from my doctor, can I come to Hampstead Dental
Once you have your Medicare EPC papers, please give us a call to schedule an appointment.  Bring your papers and Medicare Card to your first appointment.  You will also need to fill in our PATIENT FORM which you can find on the First Appointment page.  Please breing a list of your medications, and the details of your medical history that you doctor may have given you to your first appointment.  
If your doctor has written out the referral to another dentist, we should still be able to accept the referral - and we will report back to your doctor on your progress with us. 

Is there a gap to pay?
Generally no.  We bulk bill virtually all patients.   We do not charge a gap for check up, fillings, extractions, rooth canal treatment, and most other services.  There may be a small gap if you need crowns.

Teen Dental Vouchers

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.  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 Declaration (filled in prior to treatment) is correct.

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.

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 about a year.

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. A dental professional is the only person who should administer a whitening treatment.

Are there any teeth you can't whiten?
Some damaged teeth need to be treated before whitening. Other dental issues such as antibiotic stains, fluoride stains or grey teeth may need multiple treatments.

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

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.

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

We have childcare facilties...
Well, not us - but in our building is a fantastic new Rose Garden Child Care facility.  They take kids in 6 hour blocks, so you can drop the kids, come for your appointment, do some shopping at Highpoint, then pick them up again... 
We also 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 tiem when they need that extra reassurance and support.

and more....
We do have a TV for the kids (with Playhouse Disney cartoons) or Playstation for the older kids - and some toys to keep them entertained if you prefer to bring them with you to the clinic.

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).

Preferred Providers
We are preferred providers with 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.   From early October 2009, we will also be Preferred providers with Medibank Private (we can still treat you now, and claim your rebate on the spot, but your out of pocket may be a little higher than it will be from mid October).

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.

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