FAQs
Appointments & First Visit
How do I book a dental appointment?
You can book an appointment through our online booking form or by contacting our reception team on (07) 5597 1973. We will help you find a suitable appointment time based on your needs.
What should I expect during my first dental visit?
Your first visit generally includes a discussion about your dental concerns and medical history, a comprehensive examination, and, where appropriate, dental X-rays or other diagnostic tests. Your dentist will explain their findings and discuss suitable treatment options with you.
Do I need an X-ray during my dental examination?
Not necessarily. X-rays are recommended when clinically appropriate to help identify problems that may not be visible during a regular examination, such as decay between teeth, bone loss, infections, or problems around tooth roots.
How long does a dental appointment take?
The duration depends on the type of appointment. A routine check-up may be relatively short, while consultations, fillings, root canal treatment, extractions, implants, or other procedures may require more time.
Can I see a dentist if I am nervous or scared?
Absolutely. Please tell us about your concerns when booking. Our team can explain each step of the process and discuss options to make your appointment as comfortable as possible.
What if I have not visited a dentist for several years?
There is no need to feel embarrassed. We regularly see patients who have not had dental care for a long time. We will assess your current oral health and explain what needs attention and what can be monitored.
Costs & Dental Insurance
How much does dental treatment cost?
The cost depends on the type and complexity of treatment. After assessment, we can explain the recommended treatment and associated fees.
Will I receive a treatment estimate before treatment?
For planned treatment, you should be provided with information about expected fees before proceeding, subject to the circumstances of your treatment.
Do you accept dental insurance?
This depends on the clinic’s arrangements and your insurance provider. Patients should confirm their individual benefits and coverage with their insurer.
Will my insurance cover my treatment?
Coverage varies according to your policy, level of cover, annual limits, waiting periods, exclusions, and insurer. We recommend confirming your benefits directly with your insurance provider. We can always do a quote before we go ahead with treatment with your consent.
Do you offer payment plans for dental treatment?
Yes. We understand that dental treatment can be a significant expense, which is why we offer flexible payment options to help make treatment more manageable.
What payment plan options do you accept?
We currently accept Afterpay and Humm as payment options for eligible dental treatments. Availability may depend on the treatment, purchase amount, and the payment provider’s eligibility requirements.
Can I use Afterpay for dental treatment?
Yes, eligible patients may be able to use Afterpay for their dental treatment. Afterpay approval, spending limits, repayment arrangements, and eligibility are determined by Afterpay.
Can I use Humm to pay for dental treatment?
Yes, Humm may be available for eligible dental treatments. Approval and applicable payment terms are subject to Humm’s eligibility criteria and conditions.
Can I use a payment plan for all dental treatments?
Payment plan availability can vary depending on the treatment and total cost. Our team can explain the payment options available for your proposed treatment before you proceed.
Do I need approval for Afterpay or Humm?
Yes. Afterpay and Humm are third-party payment providers, and approval is subject to their individual eligibility and assessment criteria. Our dental practice does not determine approval or your available spending limit. We can help to find out whether you are eligible or not.
Do I have to pay the full treatment cost upfront?
Not necessarily. If your treatment is eligible, you may be able to use Afterpay or Humm to spread payments according to the applicable provider’s terms.
Can I find out my payment options before starting treatment?
Absolutely. We encourage patients to discuss payment options with our team before commencing planned treatment. We can explain the available options and help you understand the payment process.
Are there fees or interest charges?
Fees, interest, repayment schedules, and other charges may apply depending on the payment provider and the arrangement selected. Please review the applicable terms directly with Afterpay or Humm before entering into a payment agreement.
Will using a payment plan affect my dental treatment?
No. Your dentist will recommend treatment based on your dental needs and clinical circumstances. Payment options are discussed separately with our administrative team.
Can I use Afterpay or Humm for aligner treatment?
Payment options may be available for eligible aligner treatment. Please speak with our team about the options available for your individual treatment plan.
Can I use Afterpay or Humm for cosmetic dental treatment?
Depending on the treatment and total cost, payment plan options may be available for eligible cosmetic dental procedures. Our team can provide further information during your consultation.
What if I am not approved for Afterpay or Humm?
If you are not approved by a payment provider, our team can explain if other payment methods available at the practice.
How do I arrange a payment plan?
Please speak with our reception or dentist about your treatment and payment options. We can explain which payment methods are available and provide information to help you make an informed decision.
Please note: Afterpay and Humm are third-party payment providers. Approval, eligibility, spending limits, fees, interest, repayment terms, and other conditions are determined by the respective provider. Please review the provider’s current terms and conditions before using these services.
Diagnosis & Treatment Planning
Will the dentist explain my treatment options?
Yes. Your dentist should explain the diagnosis, recommended treatment, alternatives where appropriate, expected benefits, potential risks, and what may happen if treatment is delayed or not undertaken.
Do I have to start treatment immediately?
Not always. Some conditions require prompt treatment, while others may be suitable for monitoring. Your dentist will explain the recommended timeframe and any risks associated with delaying treatment.
Can I get a second opinion?
Yes. You are welcome to seek a second opinion before proceeding with treatment, particularly for complex or extensive procedures.
Can I choose between different treatment options?
Depending on your diagnosis and circumstances, there may be several treatment options. Your dentist can discuss the advantages, disadvantages, costs, longevity, and risks of each option.
What happens if I do not treat a dental problem?
Some dental problems can worsen if left untreated. For example, untreated decay may progress to pain, infection, or tooth loss. However, the consequences depend on the specific condition, so your dentist can advise you about your individual situation.
Dental Treatment Risks & Safety
Is dental treatment safe?
Dental procedures are generally safe when appropriately planned and performed. However, every procedure has potential risks and complications. Your dentist will explain the relevant risks before treatment.
What are the common risks of dental treatment?
Depending on the procedure, possible risks can include temporary discomfort, sensitivity, swelling, bleeding, infection, bruising, inflammation, damage to surrounding tissues, or the need for additional treatment.
Can dental treatment fail?
Yes. No dental treatment can be guaranteed to last indefinitely or be completely successful. The outcome can depend on factors such as oral hygiene, general health, smoking, grinding/clenching, the condition of the tooth or bone, and how well you follow aftercare instructions.
Can I experience pain after dental treatment?
Some procedures can cause temporary discomfort or sensitivity. Your dentist will explain what is normal after your particular treatment and when you should contact the clinic.
Is infection possible after dental treatment?
Infection is a potential complication of some dental procedures. Following your dentist’s instructions for oral hygiene, medications, and aftercare can help reduce risks.
Is bleeding after dental treatment normal?
Some procedures, particularly extractions and oral surgery, can cause bleeding. Your dental team will provide instructions for controlling it. Persistent or heavy bleeding should be assessed promptly.
Can a tooth become sensitive after a filling?
Yes. Temporary sensitivity can occur after some fillings, particularly when the decay was deep. If sensitivity persists, worsens, or is associated with significant pain, contact your dentist for assessment.
Aftetrcare and Recovery
What can I eat after dental treatment?
This depends on the procedure. Your dentist will advise you about foods to avoid and when you can return to your normal diet.
Can I exercise after dental treatment?
Some procedures may require you to temporarily avoid strenuous exercise. Follow the specific instructions provided by your dentist.
Can I smoke after dental treatment?
Smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications after certain procedures. Your dentist will provide procedure-specific advice.
When should I contact the dentist after treatment?
Contact the clinic if you experience symptoms that are severe, worsening, unexpected, or different from the post-treatment instructions you were given.
Local Anaesthetic & Sedation
Will I feel pain during dental treatment?
Local anaesthetic is commonly used for procedures where discomfort is expected. You may feel pressure, movement, or vibration, but the treated area should be adequately numb.
Are there risks associated with local anaesthetic?
Local anaesthetic is generally safe, but temporary side effects can occur, such as prolonged numbness, tenderness at the injection site, dizziness, or increased heart rate. Serious reactions are uncommon.
How long does dental numbness last?
The duration varies depending on the anaesthetic, treatment, and individual factors. Your dentist will tell you what to expect.
Can I eat while my mouth is numb?
It is usually best to wait until normal sensation returns, particularly before eating hot foods or chewing, to avoid accidentally biting or burning your lip, cheek, or tongue.
Do you offer sedation for nervous patients?
We do not offer sedation at Ashmore Smiles. Your dentist will assess whether sedation is appropriate and explain the benefits, risks, preparation, and recovery requirements. If needed we refer you for treatment under sedation.
Medications & Medical Conditions
Should I tell my dentist about my medications?
Yes. Always provide an up-to-date list of medications, supplements, and relevant medical information because these may affect dental treatment.
What if I take blood-thinning medication?
Tell your dentist before treatment. Do not stop prescribed medication unless specifically instructed by the healthcare professional managing it.
What if I have allergies?
Tell your dentist about all known allergies, including medication allergies and previous reactions.
Can medical conditions affect dental treatment?
Yes. Certain medical conditions and medications can affect treatment planning, healing, bleeding risk, infection risk, or medication choices.
Pregnancy & Dental Treatment
Can I visit the dentist while pregnant?
Yes. Maintaining good oral health during pregnancy is important. Tell your dental team that you are pregnant so treatment and medication choices can be considered appropriately.
Can I have dental X-rays during pregnancy?
If clinically necessary, dental X-rays can be performed using appropriate precautions. Your dentist will assess whether imaging is needed.
Can I have local anaesthetic during pregnancy?
Certain local anaesthetics can be used when clinically appropriate. Your dentist will consider your individual circumstances.
Crowns & Bridges
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that covers and protects a damaged or weakened tooth while restoring its shape and function.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by using supporting teeth or dental implants to hold the replacement tooth or teeth in place.
How long do crowns and bridges last?
With good oral hygiene, regular dental visits and appropriate care, crowns and bridges can provide long-term service. Their lifespan varies between patients.
Dental Veneers
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made coverings placed over the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance.
What can veneers improve?
Depending on your individual situation, veneers may help improve the appearance of teeth with discolouration, minor chips, uneven shapes or spacing.
Are veneers suitable for everyone?
Veneers are not suitable for every patient. Your dentist will assess your teeth, gums, bite and smile goals before recommending treatment.
Complete & Partial Dentures
What are complete dentures?
Complete dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace all the teeth in an upper or lower arch.
What are partial dentures?
Partial dentures replace some missing teeth while fitting around your remaining natural teeth.
Will dentures feel comfortable?
It can take some time to adjust to wearing new dentures. Your dentist can make adjustments to improve fit and comfort when required.
How do I care for my dentures?
Your dentures should be cleaned regularly and handled carefully. Your dental team can provide personalised advice on cleaning and storage.
Clear Aligners
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are a series of custom-made, removable trays designed to gradually move your teeth into a more ideal position.
Are clear aligners noticeable?
Clear aligners are designed to be discreet and are generally less noticeable than traditional braces.
How long does clear aligner treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on your teeth, bite and treatment goals. Your dentist can provide an estimated timeframe after an assessment.
Can I eat while wearing clear aligners?
Aligners are generally removed for eating and drinking anything other than water. Follow your dentist’s specific instructions.
Dental Implants
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium fixture placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth, such as a crown, bridge or denture.
Who can have dental implants?
Suitability depends on factors such as your oral health, jawbone condition, general health and individual treatment needs. An assessment is required to determine whether implants are appropriate.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can provide a long-term tooth replacement solution when properly maintained. Regular dental care and good oral hygiene are important for their longevity.
Implant-Supported Dentures
What are implant-supported dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are dentures secured to dental implants, providing additional stability compared with conventional removable dentures.
Are implant-supported dentures removable?
Depending on the design, implant-supported dentures may be removable or fixed. Your dentist will discuss which option is appropriate for you.
Why choose implant-supported dentures?
They can provide improved stability and confidence when eating and speaking compared with traditional dentures for suitable patients.
Teeth Whitening
How does professional teeth whitening work?
Professional teeth whitening uses a dental whitening system designed to lighten the colour of your natural teeth and reduce certain types of staining.
Is teeth whitening safe?
When provided and supervised by a dental professional, teeth whitening is generally considered safe. Temporary sensitivity can occur in some patients.
How long do whitening results last?
Results vary between individuals and can be affected by diet, lifestyle and oral hygiene. Touch-up treatments may help maintain your desired shade.
Can whitening remove all stains?
Whitening may not improve every type of discolouration. Your dentist can assess the cause of staining and recommend the most suitable option.
