Padstow Dental | 14 Howard Road, Padstow NSW | 02 9773 4775
A deep dive to help you understand your personal dental journey.
How often should I visit my dentist?
Everyone’s needs are different, so have a chat to us about how often you need to have your teeth checked by them based on the condition of your mouth, teeth, and gums. It’s recommended that people see their dentist twice a year.
Generally, Padstow Dental Centre suggest six-monthly check-ups, or even more frequently if you are at a greater risk for gum disease or cavities. High-risk factors can include having diabetes, being a smoker, or a family history of dental problems such as plaque build-up and decay.
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Why are regular dental assessments so important?
Regular dental check-ups are a chance for your dentist to have a complete look at your teeth, mouth, and gums, to detect and treat any problems or patterns early on if necessary or prevent them from developing altogether.
It’s rare that a dental issue goes away on its own, so early detection, treatment, and prevention can save you money, time, and discomfort. Issues like gum disease and oral cancer can also have serious consequences to your health if they aren’t addressed early enough.
In addition to assessments, having your teeth regularly cleaned by a professional can further reduce your risk of developing other dental and health problems. Almost 50% of Australian children experience tooth decay by age 121 and almost 90% of tooth loss is due to conditions that are preventable with proper dental care1.
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Reference: 1 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Chrisopoulos S & Harford JE 2013. Oral health and dental care in Australia: key facts and figures 2012. Cat. no. DEN 224. Canberra: AIHW.
How do I know if my teeth are healthy?
Some problems won’t be noticeable to you at home, which is why it’s important to get regular check-ups (this is doubly true if you have a history of decay). For instance, gum disease often develops without people noticing and they may only act on it when they experience bleeding gums, severe discomfort or loosening of teeth.
There are some warning signs that you can spot yourself. Look out for:
*Approximately 1/3 of the population over 15yrs of age has moderate to severe gum disease and 60% of the population over 65yrs.
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Why is my tooth sore?
Oral pain can happen for a lot of different reasons. Take note of some details of pain you’re feeling, like whether it’s dull, sharp, or throbbing. Also take notice of when the pain occurs, such as when you bite down. We have a number of ways to identify any problems, but extra information can help solve the issue more quickly.
Common causes for toothaches include:
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How can I improve my oral hygiene?
Be sure to brush at least twice per day, using a gentle, circular motion. If you’ve just eaten, wait 30 minutes to brush, since highly acidic or starchy food can soften your enamel. Don’t forget to brush your tongue – bacteria love to accumulate here.
Remove plaque by flossing at least once a day. Gently move the floss up and down the sides of each tooth, as well as around the gum line.
After brushing and flossing, rinse with water. You can also use antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash (avoid giving fluoride rinses to children younger than six). Since different people can benefit from different rinses, speak with your dentist about which product is best for you.
Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or when you see the brush head is worn and bristly.
Avoid snacking on sugary or acidic foods.
Swap sugary beverages like juice or fizzy drinks for tap water.
Chew sugar-free gums, which can stimulate saliva production. Saliva is one of your mouth’s best natural defences against bacteria and plaque!
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What is dental sedation?
Dental sedation is a safe and reliable method to keep patients calm and relaxed during dental procedures using an IV drip. Administered by our experienced sedation experts, it induces a state of relaxation and mild sleepiness while keeping you conscious and able to communicate throughout the treatment. With the addition of local anaesthesia, you’ll experience minimal discomfort or pain during the procedure and will have little or no memory of the procedure.
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How much will treatment cost?
As you can imagine this is very dependent on what treatment you will be having completed. However, after your first visit and continually throughout treatment you will be informed of any upcoming costs. A written plan is also available should this be of help to you.
Our team is always willing to pass on any relevant details that will assist you in making an informed decision about your treatment.
Call us today to schedule an appointment on 02 9773 4775.
Why is the new patient examination so important?
Without this visit we would be unable to meet your needs and establish your current dental requirements. It also makes it difficult for us to give you accurate estimates of what your treatment will entail and associated costs .You will find, as many of our patients do, that having this visit is a fantastic way to start your journey with us, it’s insightful, invaluable, interactive, and informative.
It is a great diagnostic tool, and we trust that you will also find it very beneficial.
Call us today to schedule an appointment on 02 9773 4775.
Are radiographs safe?
Radiographs are certainly a far better tool than they are a risk. Dosages of radiation are very low in the new modern digital equipment we have at Padstow Dental Centre.
There are some situations where we would not take radiographs, for example a routine check for a pregnant lady in her first trimester – but for general use, radiographs have been proven to be very low dosages, even less than taking a flight from Sydney to Perth.
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When is dental sedation used?
Sedation dentistry is utilised for a variety of dental treatments, particularly for complex procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, and long treatments. It is also recommended for patients with dental phobia or an acute gag reflex, ensuring a comfortable and anxiety-free experience. We offer a personalised sedation plan for an upcoming procedure to enhance your comfort and facilitate optimal treatment outcomes.
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How to know when to use dental sedation?
If you feel anxious or apprehensive about a dental procedure, discussing sedation options with us can help alleviate your concerns and enable you to undergo necessary treatment with confidence.
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Who will benefit from sedation?
People who:
Whether you’re facing a complex procedure or simply seeking a more relaxed dental experience, dental sedation at Padstow Dental Centre can help ensure your comfort and well-being throughout your dental care journey.
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Why is it important to replace missing teeth?
Replacing missing teeth is crucial for several reasons:
Preserve Jawbone Health: When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone begins to deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation from chewing forces. This can lead to bone loss and changes in facial appearance, such as sagging of the cheeks and lips.
Maintain Proper Alignment: Missing teeth can cause adjacent teeth to shift out of their natural positions over time, leading to bite misalignment, crooked teeth, development of gaps and food traps, and potential jaw joint problems (TMJ disorders).
Restore Chewing Function: Each tooth plays a vital role in chewing and digestion. Missing teeth can impair your ability to bite and chew properly, making it challenging to eat certain foods and affecting your overall nutrition and health.
Prevent Dental Complications: Gaps left by missing teeth as well as those created by the natural shifting of adjacent teeth after tooth loss, can trap food particles and bacteria, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections. Addressing missing teeth promptly helps maintain stability of the oral complex, simplifies oral hygiene, and prevents dental complications.
Preserve Facial Aesthetics: Teeth provide support to the lips, cheeks, and facial muscles, contributing to a youthful and vibrant appearance. Missing teeth can cause facial sagging and premature aging, affecting your self-confidence and overall facial aesthetics.
Enhance Speech: Teeth play a crucial role in articulating sounds and speech. Missing teeth, especially in the front of the mouth, can affect speech clarity and pronunciation, leading to communication difficulties and self-consciousness.
Boost Self-Confidence: Missing teeth can impact your smile aesthetics and self-esteem, leading to embarrassment and social anxiety. Restoring missing teeth with dental prosthetics or implants can enhance your smile, confidence, and quality of life.
Overall, replacing missing teeth is essential for maintaining oral health, function, aesthetics, and overall well-being. Whether through dental implants, bridges, or dentures, restoring missing teeth can help preserve jawbone health, maintain proper dental alignment, restore chewing function, prevent dental complications, enhance facial aesthetics, improve speech, and boost self-confidence.
The team at Padstow Dental Centre can help you explore the most suitable replacement options based on your individual needs is essential for achieving optimal oral health and quality of life.
Call us today to schedule an appointment on 02 9773 4775.
My teeth are bad. Are dentures my only option?
If your teeth are in poor condition, dentures may not be your only option. Modern dentistry offers various treatments to restore and improve dental health, depending on the extent of the damage and your individual needs. Some alternatives to dentures include:
Dental Implants: Dental implants are a durable and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. They consist of titanium posts surgically implanted into the jawbone, onto which custom-made crowns or bridges are attached. Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, providing stability and preserving jawbone health.
Dental Bridges: Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth (pontics) to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Bridges restore chewing function and aesthetics while preventing neighbouring teeth from shifting out of place.
Partial Dentures: If only some of your teeth are missing or damaged, partial dentures can be used to fill in the gaps and restore your smile. Partial dentures are removable appliances that consist of artificial teeth attached to a metal or acrylic framework that clasps onto existing teeth for support.
Implant-Supported Dentures: Implant-supported dentures offer a more stable and secure alternative to traditional removable dentures. Dental implants are strategically placed in the jawbone to support and stabilise a customised denture, eliminating issues such as slipping, or discomfort associated with traditional dentures.
Dental Crowns: Dental crowns are tooth-shaped porcelain caps that are placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their strength, function, and appearance. Crowns can be used to repair severely decayed, fractured, or discoloured teeth, preserving them, and avoiding the need for extraction.
Root Canal Therapy: For teeth with extensive decay or infection, root canal therapy may be recommended to save the tooth and alleviate pain. During this procedure, the infected pulp inside the tooth is removed, and the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent further infection. It is then restored to its original function.
It’s essential to consult with us at Padstow Dental Centre to evaluate your dental health and discuss your treatment options. We can recommend the most suitable solution based on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. With advancements in dental technology and treatment techniques, there are often alternatives to dentures available to restore your smile and oral health effectively.
Call us today to schedule an appointment on 02 9773 4775.
I’m afraid of visiting the dentist. What can I do?
If you’re afraid of visiting the dentist, know that you’re not alone, and there are steps you can take to help alleviate your anxiety:
Communicate with Your Dentist: Openly discuss your fears and concerns with Dr Bill and his dental team at Padstow Dental Centre. They are trained to provide compassionate care and can tailor their approach to help you feel more comfortable during your visit.
Start with a Consultation: Schedule a consultation appointment with Padstow Dental Centre to discuss your fears and familiarise yourself with the dental office environment. During this initial visit we will discuss your needs, concerns and conduct a thorough examination so we can provide you with the best advice. No treatment is performed at this initial visit-this can help alleviate anxiety before undergoing any treatment.
Bring a Support Person: Consider bringing a trusted friend or family member to accompany you to your dental appointments for emotional support and reassurance.
Practice Relaxation Techniques: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or visualisation to help calm your nerves before and during dental appointments.
Choose a Gentle Dentist: At Padstow Dental Centre, we extend our dental services across every stage of life, ensuring that our patients receive comprehensive care throughout their dental journey. Your well-being is our priority, and we specialise in treating anxious patients as well as offering sedation dentistry options to help you relax during treatment.
Dr Bill and his team make this a priority for all patients to make each visit a positive and comforting experience.
Gradual Exposure: Gradually expose yourself to dental experiences by starting with simple, non-invasive procedures such as a dental cleaning or examination before progressing to more complex treatments.
Explore Sedation Options: Inquire about sedation dentistry options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedatives, or intravenous (IV) sedation to help you feel more relaxed and comfortable during dental procedures.
Remember, our highly skilled dental sedation team are focused on providing outpatient dental sedation services with the highest levels of customer satisfaction. We will do everything we can to exceed your expectations by providing a safe and comfortable sedation experience.
Seek Support: Consider seeking support from a therapist or counsellor who specialises in dental anxiety or phobia. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy can help address and overcome dental-related fears.
Remember that dental health is essential for overall well-being, and addressing your fears and seeking dental care can help prevent potential dental problems from worsening. By taking proactive steps and seeking support, you can overcome your fear of visiting the dentist and maintain good oral health.
Ask us for more information on how we can help you have a better experience with Padstow Dental Centre.
Call us today to schedule an appointment on 02 9773 4775.
Why does my breath smell bad?
Bad breath, or halitosis, can result from various factors, including:
Poor Oral Hygiene: Plaque and tartar are a build-up of bacteria in the mouth. The bacteria have the ability to feed on food particles via fermentation of carbohydrates resulting in the release of the various chemicals and gases that can cause bad breath if not adequately removed through regular brushing flossing and tongue cleaning.
Food and Drink: Certain foods and beverages, such as onions, garlic, coffee, and alcohol, contain compounds that can linger in the mouth and contribute to foul-smelling breath. The most common cause however is when food particles are allowed to remain between teeth for extended periods (as lots of people are often unaware of the need to clean between teeth) which then begins to decompose and release noxious sulphur gases.
Dry Mouth: Saliva helps cleanse the mouth by washing away food particles and bacteria. Dry mouth, or xerostomia, reduces saliva production, allowing bacteria to thrive and causing bad breath, decay, and gum disease.
Smoking and Tobacco Use: Tobacco products can leave an unpleasant odour in the mouth, lungs, and on the breath, contributing to persistent bad breath.
Dental Issues: Gum disease, tooth decay, and oral infections can produce foul-smelling breath. These conditions may require professional dental treatment to resolve.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as sinus infections, respiratory tract infections, diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and gastrointestinal issues like acid reflux, can cause bad breath as a symptom.
Medications: Some medications, including certain antidepressants, antihistamines, and diuretics, can cause dry mouth or produce compounds that contribute to bad breath.
Dieting and Fasting: Crash diets and fasting can lead to ketosis, a metabolic state where the body burns fat for energy, resulting in the production of ketones that can cause bad breath.
To address bad breath, maintain good oral hygiene habits, stay hydrated, avoid tobacco use, and limit consumption of foods and drinks known to cause bad breath. If bad breath persists despite these measures, consult with us at Padstow Dental Centre or a healthcare professional to identify, and address any underlying issues as we find that in a lot of instances it is caused by undiagnosed gum disease.
Call us today to schedule an appointment on 02 9773 4775.
Why is it important to have an initial comprehensive examination?
At Padstow Dental Centre, an initial comprehensive examination is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it allows us to familiarise ourselves with each other, assess your overall oral health and identify any existing issues or potential concerns. This examination serves as the foundation for developing a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Additionally, through this thorough examination, we can detect early signs of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. Early detection not only facilitates prompt intervention but also helps prevent the progression of dental issues, ultimately saving you time, discomfort, and expenses in the long run.
Moreover, an initial comprehensive examination provides an opportunity for us to discuss your dental history, concerns, and treatment preferences openly. By fostering open communication, we can ensure that you are fully informed and involved in your dental care journey, empowering you to make informed decisions about your oral health.
Having an initial comprehensive examination at Padstow Dental Centre is essential for proactive dental care, early detection of issues, and collaborative treatment planning, ultimately promoting optimal oral health and overall well-being.
Call us today to schedule an appointment on 02 9773 4775.
At what age should I take my child to the dentist?
It’s recommended to take your child to the dentist for their first visit within six months of the sign of their first tooth, or by their first birthday, whichever comes first.
This early introduction to dental care helps establish a positive relationship with the dentist and allows for early detection of any potential dental issues.
Additionally, it provides an opportunity for parents to receive guidance on proper oral hygiene practices and dietary habits to promote optimal oral health for their child’s development. Regular dental check-ups every six months thereafter can help ensure ongoing preventive care and monitor the growth and development of your child’s teeth and jaws.
Call us today to schedule an appointment on 02 9773 4775.
Dentistry is so expensive. How can I avoid surprises?
To avoid surprises regarding dental costs, it’s important to take proactive steps and communicate openly with your dentist. Here are some tips to help you manage dental expenses effectively:
Insurance Coverage: Understand your private dental insurance coverage thoroughly, including any limitations, exclusions, and annual maximums. Verify which treatments are covered and at what percentage. This can help you anticipate out-of-pocket costs more accurately.
Preventive Care: Prioritise preventive dental care, such as regular check-ups and cleanings, to maintain good oral health and prevent more costly treatments in the future. Early detection of dental issues can also help minimise treatment expenses.
Treatment Planning: Discuss treatment options and associated costs with your dentist before undergoing any procedures. Ensure you understand the recommended treatment plan, including any alternatives and their respective costs. Ask for a written estimate detailing the procedures, fees, and expected insurance coverage.
Payment Plans: Inquire about payment plans or financing options offered by the dental practice to spread out the cost of treatment over time. Some practices offer in-house financing or partner with third-party financing companies to provide flexible payment arrangements.
Second Opinions: Consider seeking a second opinion from another dentist, especially for major or costly treatments. This can help you gain confidence in the recommended treatment plan and explore alternative options that may better fit your budget.
Preauthorisation: For extensive or costly treatments, request preauthorisation from your insurance provider before proceeding. This ensures clarity on coverage and helps avoid unexpected denials or disputes later on.
By taking a proactive approach to dental care and communication with your dentist, you can better manage dental expenses and avoid surprises. Remember that investing in preventive care and early treatment can ultimately save you money on more extensive dental procedures in the long run.
Call us today to schedule an appointment on 02 9773 4775.
Why do my gums bleed?
Bleeding gums can be a sign that you have or may develop gum disease. Ongoing gum bleeding may be due to plaque build-up on the teeth. It can also be a sign of a serious medical condition.
Visit the dentist at least once every 6 months for plaque removal. Follow your dentist’s home care instructions.
Brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush at least twice a day. It is best if you can brush after every meal. Also, flossing teeth twice a day can prevent plaque from building up and turning into tartar.
Your dentist may tell you to rinse with salt water or hydrogen peroxide and water, or a mouth rise designed to treat gum inflammation. Some rinses contain alcohol, so consult with your dentist prior to using one of these types.
It can help to follow a balanced, healthy diet. Try to avoid snacking between meals and cut down on the carbohydrates you eat.
Call us today to schedule an appointment on 02 9773 4775.
How Can I save Money at the Dentist?
The old proverb ‘a stitch in time saves nine’ is never truer than with dental care. Preventive care is not only cheaper, but much simpler and can even be pleasant. So, delaying your visit to the dentist will more than likely make your dental bills worse, not better. Part of good preventive care has to be appropriate home care strategies and your dentist will happily advise you on how to best achieve these.
Call us today to schedule an appointment on 02 9773 4775.
Why do I need x-rays (radiographs)?
Radiographs are a great diagnostic tool and can help to assess bone levels around the teeth. Without radiographs it is sometimes difficult to diagnose issues, as some dental diseases can be symptom-free, we use radiographs to be able to ensure that there is nothing going on beneath the surface that can’t be seen with the naked eye.
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Can I pay for my treatment with super?
We offer Access My Super to help you with the early release of superannuation to cover the cost of a variety of dental treatments including orthodontics, implants, crowns, braces and many more.
If you need more information about how to pay for your dental treatment with your super fund read more here: AMS’s Detailed Compassionate Grounds Fact Sheet explains the process. Alternatively, you can contact AMS on 1800 845 121 for more information.
“Access my Super” (AMS) is an independent third-party service provider and does not have any direct affiliation or benefit with Padstow Dental Centre. As a number of conditions must be met before superannuation can be released on compassionate grounds, you will need to verify your eligibility through either AMS or direct through the ATO. PD do not endorse or guarantee any services provided by Access my Super” (AMS).
Call us today to schedule an appointment on 02 9773 4775.
Can I pay for my treatment over time?
The most cost-effective approach to dentistry is regular examination and continuing care. Payment is required on the day of treatment however in some circumstances we are able to tailor your treatment plan to suit your budget, so please feel free to discuss this with our practice co-ordinator.
Call us today to schedule an appointment on 02 9773 4775.
Call us on 02 9773 4775 to schedule your consultation. If you have any questions, get in touch with our team with any questions.
Contact us*Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
14 Howard Road, Padstow NSW
1 minute walk from Padstow Station
Easy parking
Mon, Tues, Wed 9.00am – 5.30pm
Thu, Fri 8.30am – 5.00pm