How much will it cost?
The cost of dentistry increases with the lack of regular check ups. A standard consultation plus clean and scale is around $150. If people have an annual check up and clean they can keep their dental costs to a minimum. Of course as the years pass some of us will need more dental work. Below is a general indication* of how costs can increase when regular check ups are not part of a person’s health regime.
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Consultation $50 - $65 |
Fillings $150 - $350 |
Root canal therapy $850 - $1600 |
Crown $1200 - $1600 |
*Please note: these costs are an indication only and do not reflect set costs at Forestway Dental Practice
People often telephone and ask what is the price of a filling, root canal therapy, crowns etc. It is impossible to give a concise quote over the phone because there are a number of different fillings for different surfaces of a tooth. Teeth also have various root systems and the cost depends on an examination to assess treatment options. However we will give you a quote after your consultation.
Does teeth whitening damage tooth enamel?
In regards to teeth whitening products, prolonged bleaching can lead to severe irritation of the teeth and gums. If done properly, teeth whitening is harmless. It is only when people buy ‘over the counter’ whitening products and use them without following the proper directions that it is dangerous. We suggest you ask our advice on professional teeth bleaching treatments before making a purchase.
Why are teeth yellow/grey?
Brown or yellow teeth (often caused by smoking, coffee, and tea) will usually get whiter with a good scale and clean, and a professional teeth whitening treatment. Some people have naturally grey coloured teeth, and some antibiotics can cause teeth to go grey. It is difficult to whiten teeth that have been discoloured by medication and results will vary. However, bleaching overall benefits most people and improves their smile.
Should I replace my amalgam fillings with white ones?
There has been a lot of publicity and debate about the danger of amalgam fillings. Our view is in line with the Australian Dental Association and statements by prominent international research bodies.
The Australian Dental Association’s (ADA) policy is based on current research that suggests the use of dental amalgam produces no harmful effects. The ADA is also of the opinion that there is no positive gain in replacing amalgam fillings with other materials, other than for aesthetic reasons.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the World Dental Federation (FDI) have released statements asserting that there is no evidence of a link between amalgam fillings and chronic degenerative diseases, autoimmune diseases, kidney diseases, altered cognitive function or adverse pregnancy outcomes.
However research is limited at the moment, and if patients request replacing amalgam fillings with other materials we are happy to oblige.
Why do my gums bleed?
Bleeding gums are mainly due to inadequate plaque removal at the gum line. This will lead to a condition called gingivitis or inflamed gums. If plaque is not removed it hardens into scale. Eventually, this leads to increased bleeding and a more advanced form of gum and jawbone disease known as periodontitis.
What age should children first visit the dentist?
Most babies have 12 teeth by the time they are 18 months and 20 teeth by the time they are three years. We recommend a first visit around the age of three when a concise consultation can take place. We can then check for signs of decay, examine your child’s bite and look for potential problems with gums, jaw and oral tissues. All first teeth should be saved to help keep the space for the permanent teeth.
The first dental visit is usually short and involves very little treatment. We make it friendly and non-threatening. After their visit, children are given a sample bag of tooth paste, brush and instructions on how to clean their teeth. We encourage you to feel at ease by sitting with your child in the chair or close by. We want you to leave our surgery feeling confident and reassured about your child’s dental health and the recommendations we make for your most precious possession.
Does my child need braces?
Orthodontic work is now taking place much earlier in a child’s life. It is not uncommon for children as young as 7 or 8 years of age to have braces or be visiting the orthodontist for preliminary treatment. We recommend children have an annual check-up so we can assess their orthodontic needs at the earliest time for treatment and refer them to an appropriate orthodontist.
Is it better to remove a tooth than try and save it at great expense?
The reason we try and save teeth is to save the jaw-bone and hence your facial appearance. The more practical reason is so that you can chew your food properly and enjoy a variety of foods. There are circumstances when extracting a tooth will have no disadvantage, for example, when there is no opposing tooth to chew on, the tooth has deteriated beyond saving, or in some cases - wisdom teeth. Over the years our diet has changed from rough foods such as leaves, roots, nuts and meats that needed more chewing power to much softer foods eaten with forks, knives and spoons. As a result, wisdom teeth have become functionless.
While our job is to save teeth we also take into account your personal situation before making a treatment recommendation.