FAQs
How often should I have a dental check up?
The purpose of a recall visit is to detect signs of oral disease early, to attend to problems that need attention and to prevent future disease through subsequent follow-up visits at regular intervals. Because every patient has unique oral health needs, the optimal frequency for recall visits is patient specific. This means it depends on your individual circumstances. As a general guide we recommend a check up every six months. We find that the six month recall interval allows for early detection and monitoring of disease and motivates our patients to practice preventive measures.
Why do I need x-rays?
Radiographic (x-ray) examinations provide your dentist with an important diagnostic tool which shows the condition of your teeth, their roots and the overall composition of the facial bones. They allow your dentist to determine the presence or extent of periodontal disease and and the exact location of cavities and abscesses. They can also alert your dentist to the presence of abnormal growths such as cysts and tumours. Finding and treating problems as early as possible can save time, money and unnecessary discomfort.
What is the best way to whiten my teeth?
There are many excellent ways to whiten the teeth and all have advantages and disadvantages. Since each case is different there is no one best way.
When staining is present on the surface we can professionally clean the teeth, often producing a fresher, whiter appearance.
If you simply have darker teeth due to their intrinsic colour or as the result of an age change we can whiten your teeth, either in the dental chair using Britesmile or supply you with a take home tooth whitening kit.Tooth whitening is not suitable for everyone. eg if you have multiple anterior fillings or crowns (caps) as these will not change colour and will look darker than the natural teeth that have a much whiter appearance after the procedure.
Sometimes simply replacing old, worn out fillings that are failing at the edges can produce better looking front teeth. Alternatively, when the enamel is heavily stained, crowns or veneers may be the best option. At Mullumbimby Dental Centre we use the latest cosmetic techniques and can give advice as to the best choices for you.
How can I prevent tooth decay?
Being careful about how often you have sugar in your food and drinks is the best way to prevent and treat tooth decay.
How often you have sugary food and drinks is more important than how much sugar you have in your food and drinks.
Other ways you may help prevent dental caries with your diet are:
> Use a fluoride toothpaste.
> Professional concentrated fluoride applications in the surgery.
> Rinse your mouth with water after having sugary food or drink
> Using sugar free chewing gum may help protect your teeth by stimulating extra saliva.
Saliva is very important in protecting your teeth from decay.
> Do not put any sugar or sugar containing juices in babies' bottles.
> Remember that smoking changes the saliva to a more harmful consistency. How can I prevent gum disease?
Some of the warning signs of gum disease are;
> Bleeding gums when you brush your teeth.
> Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
> Receding gums.
> Sensitive teeth or gums.
> Loose teeth or teeth that have moved.
If you have any of these symptoms visit your dentist, who will examine your gums as part of a normal dental check-up. X-rays are often needed to help diagnose any gum problems.
Good dental hygiene is one of the most important factors in preventing gum disease. we will teach you proper brushing and flossing techniques that will help ensure healthy teeth and gums.
You may need to be referred to a Periodontist who is a specialist in treating gum disease. Treatment involves careful, deep cleaning of the teeth to remove the cause of the problem. This can be done with local anaesthetic and sedation if necessary.
Why do dental rebates differ from health funds?
Health funds have assessors who determine the level of rebate for particular dental items. There is a balance between the rebate and the level of premium you pay, the type of cover and other factors such as waiting periods, annual limits and any promotional offers.
As a consumer, you choose the private health scheme that best suits your needs.
Most have fixed rebates for treatments irrespective of the actual fees charged. The rebates are generally not designed to provide full cover for dental fees or even a consistent percentage.
In addition, most schemes do not include all treatment items. Some common treatments have no rebate at all.
Remember,
1. Your contract with the health fund is between you and the fund. It remains separate from the contract you have with your dentist.
2. There is no such thing as a ‘recognised fee’ or ‘schedule fee’ in dentistry and the ADA states categorically that any organisation that implies that their rebates are set to a percentage of a ‘schedule fee’ is misleading the public, regardless of whether it is an ‘internal’ schedule.