Oral Health Therapist
Extraction of adult teeth is not part of the treatments an Oral Health Therapist (“OHT”) can provide.
OHTs are highly trained dental practitioners, but like any other part of a dental team, they have their specific scope of practice.
OHTs are focused on preventative dentistry. They are experts when it comes to hygiene treatments and providing dental treatments for children, including extraction of primary/milk teeth. To learn more about their role in a dental team, you can check this article.
Yes, our Oral Health Therapist (“OHT”) can perform fillings.
An Oral Health Therapist is a dental professional who has completed university studies and trained in both dental hygiene and dental therapy. Oral hygiene is their main focus and specialty, and motivating patients to take better care of their oral health to prevent cavities is the key. But if you do need any teeth restored, our Oral Health Therapists are well trained to provide you with the treatment you need.
Our OHT’s are registered dental professionals and qualified to also perform the following treatments:
- Dental examinations and check-ups
- Professional scaling and cleaning treatments
- X-rays and OPG’s
- Fillings
- Treating gum disease
- Fissure Sealants
- Unlimited treatments for children under the age of 18, including crowns and extraction of primary teeth
- Teeth whitening
Our OHT’s are qualified to treat both adults and children and can therefore see your whole family.
If you do need to restore a tooth, please make an appointment with one of our clinics here
Just like Dentists, Oral Health Therapists (“OHT”) are also registered dental practitioners. They must be registered with the Australian Dental Board and the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA). AHPRA has strict requirements for registered dental professionals, including annual compulsory professional development to ensure that your dentist and OHT are current with advances in science and dental practice.
OHT’s need to complete a 3-year degree to qualify in two important roles: as a Dental Therapist and as a Dental Hygienist. This means they can provide treatment advice, diagnosis, and preventive programs for the oral health of children and adults.
To learn more about their role, you can check this article.
Book now with one of our OHT’s by contacting us or by using our online service here.
An Oral Health Therapist (OHT) is a clinician who completed 3-years of study in dental hygiene and dental therapy. They mostly do hygiene treatments and some other dental treatments for children up to the age of 17. Their profession focuses on ‘cleaning’ and educating patients on ways to improve and maintain good oral health.
Whereas a dentist is an oral health professional who completed 5-years of undergraduate study in dentistry. Given the longer years of study, a dentist performs more complex dental work.
Both dental professionals work hand-in-hand. It is quite common for patients to see an OHT for their routine hygiene appointment as this is their primary focus, thereby providing a more personalised experience. Also depending on the outcome from the check-up and clean, your Oral Health Therapist may refer you to a dentist for more complex treatments.
If you wish to make an appointment with us, please find our contact details here
Most dental clinics have a team of dental professionals working together to ensure patients get the best possible treatment and advice about their oral health. The different areas of expertise provide the best possible solutions for your dental needs.
Oral Health Therapists (“OHT”) are an integral part of a dental team. They are dental professionals that focus on disease prevention through clinical intervention and education. This is important to the management of your oral health.
Main role of an OHT is to:
- Give comprehensive oral examination and check-ups
- Provide professional scaling and cleaning treatments
- Perform preventative procedures such as fluoride applications and fissure sealants
- Restore teeth with fillings
- Take dental x-rays and OPG’s
- Provide whitening procedures
- Treat gum disease
- Provide unlimited treatments for children, including crowns and extraction of primary teeth
- Conduct dietary counselling and oral health education and promotion
- Work collaboratively with other oral health clinicians, dental assistants and administrative staff
Oral health is vital to your overall health. To ensure that you’re getting the proper care and treatment for your teeth, you need a complete dental team approach including the advice and treatment from an Oral Health Therapist.
Contact us to book with one of our OHT’s or book thru our online booking service.
We recommend visiting your Oral Health Therapist once every six months for your oral hygiene appointment. Not only will this improve your oral health but it will also prevent dental problems from arising.
Both our Dentist and Oral Health Therapist (OHT) can perform a thorough check-up and clean for you but the advantage in seeing our OHT’s, is that they are especially focused on preventative dentistry.
While a dentist is kept busy with more complex dental treatments, an OHT will spend much more time with you, thus offering a more personalised experience and will make sure nothing has been overlooked. Our OHTs are very skilled in hygiene treatments and treating children and can put our most anxious patients at ease.
Our Oral Health Therapists will clearly communicate with our patients how to look after their teeth, and will take the time to share quick and easy dental care tips to encourage good oral care habits. They will offer recommendations to maintain optimum oral health at home which may include dietary advice and recommendations. After all, healthy eating contributes to good oral health.
Other than hygiene treatments, OHTs can perform other treatments like teeth whitening, fillings, treating gum disease, and unlimited scope to treat children including extractions, fissure sealants, and crowns. To learn more about their roles, you can check this article.
It is our goal for you to maintain optimal oral health. Book now with one of our OHTs through our online service or contact us here.
Bookings & Cancellations
Most patients, especially those in pain or who are really busy with their everyday lives, understandably want to have their surgery consultation and treatment on the same day. So is a separate appointment for a consultation really needed?
Treatments such as a simple tooth extraction may be done the same day as the consultation, but most surgical treatments are too complex and require a carefully developed treatment plan, so a separate consultation appointment is important.
Common oral surgery treatments include complex tooth extractions such as wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, bone grafting and periodontal surgery.
During your initial consultation, our dentists will evaluate your oral health, take and review your medical history, and will typically take some x-rays and discuss treatment options given your oral and financial circumstances. A treatment plan will be put together which may require multiple visits over a specified period of time, and our dentist will discuss the treatment plan with you so you know what to expect.
If you’re taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, you may be advised to talk to your doctor first. We may even need to order special dental materials specifically for your treatment that we don’t always have on hand.
From the treatment plan, you can also check your with your health fund what benefit amount will be paid, so you know your expected out-of-pocket expense.
An appointment or multiple appointments will then be scheduled, ensuring there’s ample time to complete the surgical treatment.
Complex dental procedures such as surgical treatment require planning and preparation, so a pre-surgery consultation will ensure your treatment will be done safely.
Thinking that you may need surgical dental treatment? Our dentist will discuss the best treatment for you. Book a consultation appointment now!
Do you have oral health concerns that you would like to discuss? Are you looking for options to improve your smile? Do you need more information about a particular dental procedure?
Whatever dental concern you may have, a dental consultation is the first vital step.
No insurance? Not a problem! You can take advantage of our Free Consultation, limited to 10 minutes only.
The following terms and conditions apply to this offer.
- One Free Limited Consultation per year only.
- Available to patients without health insurance.
- A maximum 10-minute appointment will be booked – if you need a longer appointment, you’ll be booked and charged for a ‘Limited Consultation’ (Item 013) instead.
- No treatment will be performed during your Free Limited Consultation appointment. If you wish to proceed with treatment, a follow-up appointment will need to be organised for the specified treatment.
- Any treatment/services provided during the Free Limited Consultation, including referral letters, medical certificates, x-rays, and prescriptions, will be charged at the standard fee upon your consent. At a minimum, you will be charged for our ‘Standard Consultation – $70.00’.
Please note this offer does not include treatment, so if you are in pain or in need of any services mentioned above, please let us know so we can book an appointment that best meets your needs.
Interested in a free dental consultation? Call us today to book your appointment!
We understand that sometimes unexpected thing happen and you may need to cancel your appointment.
Before cancelling you appointment, please read our Cancellation Policy.
If you need to cancel your appointment, submit an online request HERE. Alternatively, please call the practice to cancel or reschedule your appointment to a more convenient time.
You can see our available appointment times on our website, and can book online anytime.
If it is an emergency and you are experiencing pain, please call the clinic and we will do what we can to fit you in on the same day or as soon as possible.
Our peak times are on weekends, after school hours, and during school holidays, so if you prefer to come during these times, it is best to plan ahead.
In general, the wait time is a few days in advance.
Anxious about your upcoming dental surgery? You’re not alone. Most patients feel the same way from the mere mention of “surgery”.
You can still have a positive experience during your surgery despite your worries. How?
Communicate with your dentist.
The first and most important part is to talk to your dentist. Don’t hesitate to let us know if any part of the procedure makes you nervous. We’ll address all your concerns and may be able to modify your treatment plan to help you feel more at ease.
Listen to something you love.
Listening to your favourite music, audiobook, or podcast can be really helpful to distract you from your worries.
Bring a support person.
Children usually have their parents beside them during a dental session to feel the comfort that someone they love or know is beside them during the anxiety-producing session. Adults are no different. Bringing a family member or friend can help you feel at ease during the appointment. Just let the practice know beforehand so we can make sure to accommodate an extra person.
Keep in mind the advancement of technology.
Modern dentistry which includes both equipment and materials, has made a great leap in technology, making treatment and procedures safer, more accurate, more comfortable, and less painful than ever before so remind yourself that it’s not going as bad as your anxiety thinks it will be.
We will take the steps necessary to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible before, during and after your dental surgery. Call us today to book a stress-free appointment!
Please read our Cancellation Policy, outlined below, carefully.
You do not have to agree to this policy however, without your agreement, we will not be able to provide you with dental treatment.
By making any type of dental appointment with any dentist in a No Gaps Dental clinics means that you agree to this policy in full.
- Why does No Gaps Dental have a cancellation policy?
We have a cancellation policy because
- It is not possible to fill an appointment time by booking in another patient at short notice
- Your dentist dedicates significant time and care to treatment planning and preparation
- There are other patients who would have taken the appointment time if given sufficient notice
- There are substantial overhead costs associated with providing you with this service
- How much notice do I need to give to avoid a cancellation fee?
- For all appointment cancellations, at least 1 full business day* notice is required.
- If less than 1 full business day’s notice is given, a cancellation fee will be incurred.
*Except in the case of an illness or family emergency – see below.
- What is meant by a “business day”?
A ” business day” includes any day between Monday to Saturday, excluding public holidays or an office closure period.
The appointment cancellation must be received by our office between the hours of 8:00am and 6:00pm.
Office closure periods will be advised via our phone recording, or on our website.
As an example, notice given on Thursday at 2pm for an appointment at 2pm the following Tuesday is four business days – assuming no public holidays fall in between.
- How much is the cancellation fee?
For all appointments, the cancellation fee is $70.
- What is meant by “illness or family emergency”?
We understand that illnesses and family emergencies sometimes occur and we will not charge a cancellation fee in such cases.
A medical certificate may at our discretion be required to waive the cancellation fee.
For clarity, please note the following examples of “family emergencies”:
- An illness or injury to someone in your immediate family
- The death of someone in your immediate or extended family
- A car accident
- A robbery or assault
Please also note the following examples which are not considered “family emergencies” under this policy:
- A meeting called at work or any changes to work rosters or travel requirements
- A school, sports or extra-curricular activity
- A family activity or holiday
- Changes to the availability of a babysitter or child care service
Although we accept that such events may be beyond your control and can be genuine reasons for late cancellation, we still require that you take responsibility for these types of circumstances and a cancellation fee would still apply.
- What happens if a cancellation fee is not paid promptly?
If a cancellation fee is charged under this policy and you do not pay the fee promptly, we will be unable to continue providing you with any kind of dental treatment. We also reserve the right to take any further reasonable action necessary to recover any unpaid fees and to bill you for any reasonable additional costs incurred in taking such action.
We hope you find this to be a fair and reasonable policy and we thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
To cancel your appointment, submit a support ticket HERE. Alternatively, please call the practice to cancel or reschedule your appointment to a more convenient time.
Attached is the latest ‘Dentist Schedule’ of where and when our Dentists are working during the week.
What To Expect At Your First Dental Appointment
There are a variety of reasons why a patient may avoid visiting a dentist, and one of those reasons is being afraid to miss work.
Dental professionals are qualified health professionals and without proper oral care, which includes regular visits to a dentist, you could end up suffering from various dental diseases that can impact your overall health.
Our clinics are open 6 days a week from 8am to 6pm, and if you book in advance, we can certainly find a suitable time for you. Our dentist can provide you with a certificate of attendance if you are fit to return to school or work.
If you find yourself in pain due to a dental problem, need time to recover from invasive dental treatment, or any other dental issue making you unfit for school or work, our dentist can provide you with a certificate saying that you are unfit for work due to a dental condition.
Come and see us by booking an appointment now!
Yes, you are able to obtain a copy of your dental records.
Please download and complete the “Dental Records Release” form, and then submit it via the Request Page and select “Dental Records“. This form gives us authorisation to release your dental records to your chosen dentist, so please make sure all of your correct details are filled out on the form. Once we have received the completed form, your dental records will be released as soon as possible.
If you are having trouble with this, please contact us via the Request Page on our website.
DentalRecordsReleaseRequestForm_ExistingPatient.pdf
80 KB Download
Providing your dentist with a record of your dental history can help in the planning of potential dental treatment, and the management of previous dental treatment such as fillings and crowns.
To obtain your dental records from your previous dentist, and have them saved to your patient file with us at No Gaps Dental, please complete the attached Dental Records Release Form and send it to your previous dentist. Once your records have been released and sent to us, we will ensure they are saved to your patient file in our systems.
If you are having trouble with this, please contact us via our Support Request page on our website.
DentalRecordsReleaseRequestForm_NewPatient.pdf
80 KB Download
There are times when a patient will request a copy of their invoice.
Here is how to obtain a copy of a patient’s invoice
> Search for the patient in Core Practice
> Go to “Payment” in the left-hand bar
> Click on the required Invoice Number
> Click download and save it to your computer
> Attach the invoice to your “Reply to the patient”
Screen Shot 2021-07-21 at 10.52.51 am.png
200 KB Download
Dental x-rays are important as they show the condition of your teeth that is not visible to the naked eye. They are taken regularly since oral conditions changes over time. You may be required to take x-rays more frequently if you have poor oral health or if you need to undergo a specific dental procedure.
If you’ve had dental x-rays taken elsewhere, you can definitely bring them to your appointment, or have them emailed to us before your appointment. Requesting for your previous dental history would also be helpful.
Depending on the type of x-rays you provide, how recently they were taken, our dental professionals may decide not to take a new x-ray, thus saving you both time and money!
Your dental records will detail the visits and treatments you have had with us. Specifically, records will include; your condition when presented to our clinic, comments and concerns you have expressed, clinical findings and observations, x-rays, treatment advice and options offered, and treatment provided.
Bookings & Cancellations
If you are feeling scared about going to the dentist, try to stay calm and build up the courage to come in to see us as soon as possible, so your anxiety doesn’t continue building up.
Here are some tips to stay calm;
- Arrange an appointment in the morning, when things are less busy, with less noise and distraction.
- Bring a book or music to help you relax;
- Ask someone to accompany you on your visit so you don’t feel alone;
- Take deep calm breaths
- Tell your dentist that you’re feeling nervous and they can reassure and explain what they will do
The feeling of dizziness is not uncommon after your dental treatment. For some, this feeling can be immediate, and for others it can continue for the remainder of the day. Dizziness can be caused by your reaction to the local anesthesia, sudden changes to your blood pressure and lying back in the dental chair for prolonged periods of time.
If you are feeling dizzy, get rest, move slowly and take plenty of fluids. If the dizziness continues, please let your dentist know and we will advise further.
Being prepared for your first dental visit can reduce stress, and ensure you and the dentist have everything you need for your first visit to run smoothly and comfortably.
4 things to do before your first appointment at No Gaps Dental:
- Complete your Online Medical History Form
- You would have received an SMS prior to your visit containing a link to complete your online medical history form. Please complete this prior to coming for your appointment. If you have troubles completing the form, please come to your appointment 10mins earlier.
- Get your Dental records
- If you have seen a dentist at another practice previously, you may want to contact them to obtain a copy of your dental records. The previous dentist may ask you to complete a dental records release form before they can release your dental records.
- Health Insurance Card
- If you are covered with Private Health Insurance, please remember to bring your current health insurance card with you to the appointment. We do need the actual health fund card in order to make a claim on the spot – having the member number only is not sufficient for us to make a claim. Depending on your health fund, you may have a Digital Card which is accepted.
- Payment
- Payment is required on the day of treatment. We accept EFTPOS, Visa, Mastercard and American Express.
All our dentists are qualified registered dentists to practice in Australia. Each of our dentists are unique, with their own set of skills.
When making an appointment online, please select the treatment that reflects your needs or current circumstances, and the dentists available will appear in the list for you to select from.
Health Insurance
A registered dentist is classified as a ‘Provider’ of Dental Services.
A ‘Preferred Provider’ is a dentist who has a contractual agreement with a specific health insurer, whereby the dentist agrees to provide certain treatments to the health fund member, at an agreed maximum price. The agreed maximum price is normally lower than the Provider’s (Dentist) normal prices. For treatments that are not covered under our no gaps policy, this means that your out-of-pocket expense will be lower.
No Gaps Dental clinics are Preferred Providers with the following health insurers;
- Medibank Member’s Choice locations: Beverly Hills, Bondi Junction and Blacktown
- BUPA Member’s First Platinum locations: Artarmon, Beverly Hills, Blacktown, Bondi Junction, Cabramatta, Chatswood, Epping, Hornsby, Penrith and Sydney Haymarket
- Westfund Provider of Choice: Artarmon, Beverly Hills, Blacktown, Bondi Junction, Brookvale, Cabramatta, Chatswood, Epping, Hornsby, Liverpool, Parramatta, Penrith, Randwick, Sydney Haymarket and Sydney Wynyard.
If you are covered for dental by Private Health Insurance, we need your health fund card before we can make a claim. Similar to the way we can use digital credit cards from our phones, several health insurance companies have digitised their membership cards. This means that rather than having your physical health fund card in your wallet, you can add your Digital Health Fund card to your AppleWallet or GooglePay and tap on our HICAPS terminal to make your health fund claim.
Not all health funds have digitised their membership cards. A digital health fund card is currently* available with the following health funds:
Health Fund | Available on | Relevant link to your Health Funds Digital card |
Bupa | both Apple and Android | Bupa Digital Card |
Medibank Private | both Apple and Android | MBP – Apple Digital Card |
nib | both Apple and Android | nib Digital Card |
GU Health | both Apple and Android | GU Health Digital Card |
hbf | both Apple and Android | hbf Digital Card |
AHM | Android only | AHM – Digital Card |
HCF | Android only | HCF Digital Card |
Westfund | Android only | Westfund Digital Card |
TUH | Android only | TUH Digital Card |
union health | Android only | union health Digital Card |
*The above list is current as of May 2023. Please check your health fund’s website for more information on when a digital card might become available.
How to get your Digital Health Fund Card
To get your Digital Health Fund card, you will need to
- Download the latest version of your Health Fund’s app from the AppStore (for Apple users) or GooglePlay (for Android users) to your phone or Apple watch
- Set up your membership in the App. To do this, you will need your membership number and a few other details to verify your identity
- Once set up, you can add your digital membership card to wallet. Each health fund does it differently, so please refer to your health funds website for further instructions
How to use your Digital Health Fund Card
To use your Digital Health Fund card,
- Open up your AppleWallet or GooglePay and select your health fund card
- When the HICAPS terminal is ready, hold your device near the HICAPS terminal reader and wait for it to read your card (usually a beep will sound)
- If you have multiple members on your card, click on the eclipse symbol (three dots) to see your ID, or check from within the app and inform the receptionist so that the claim is made against the correct person
- The claim will proceed as normal
If your health fund doesn’t have a Digital Health Fund card yet
If your health fund has not yet digitised their membership cards, you will need to bring your physical health fund card to your appointment in order to make a claim. Digital technology is rapidly changing, so in time, more health funds will digitise their health fund cards as well. Please check your health funds website for more information on when a digital card might become available.
Understanding how much benefit your health insurer will pay towards your dental treatment gives you an idea of how much you may need to pay out-of-pocket.
To find out your remaining benefit limits, you can call your health fund and ask simply ask ‘How much benefit do I have remaining?’, or you may be able to find limited information via your health fund app on your smart phone. Depending on which level of cover you are on, and which health fund you are with, your limits may be split between:
- General Dental (check ups and cleans),
- Preventative Dental (fillings and fissure sealants) and
- Major Dental (includes extractions, gum treatment, crowns, root canal treatment, implants)
For a specific quote / estimate on the benefit your health insurer will pay towards your treatment, you will need to provide them with the following information:
- Your name and member number
- The Provider Number
- This is a 6 digit number that identifies the dentist
- Treatment ID / Item Number
- This is a 3 digit number, usually before the treatment description
- Tooth ID / Number
- This is required for treatment specific to a tooth such as a filling, crown, root canal treatment or extraction
- Treatment Price
The above information can be obtained from your treatment plan. Without a treatment plan or undertaking an examination, it is difficult to know what treatment you need, and the item numbers to provide to the health fund.
When obtaining a quote / estimate from your health insurer, please note that if anything changes in relation to your policy, claims you have made to date or when your benefits expire, your quote / estimate will also change.
Due to privacy reasons, our staff are not able to speak to your health insurer without your authorisation to do so first.
To make a claim from your health insurer in our clinics,
- Bring your current health fund card to your appointment
- At the end of the treatment, our receptionist will swipe your card through the HICAPS terminal.
- Details of your treatment will be sent directly to your health insurer and it will be processed instantly on the spot.
We accept most Australian health insurers and most can be processed via HICAPS.
If your health fund card is not working, or you’ve forgotten your card, we can provide you with an invoice and receipt showing what you have paid on the day of your appointment. You can take these documents to your heath insurer to make the claim directly with them either online or at a branch.
Most health insurers also have an App available on your smartphone, and claims can be submitted electronically via the App by uploading a copy of the invoice and / or submitting specific information from the invoice.
There are a number of reasons why your health insurer may not pay a benefit for your dental treatment. When we process the claim using our HICAPS terminal, a reason may be provided and we can provide you with information on how to resolve it with your health insurer. Sometimes a reason will not be provided, and you will need to contact your health insurer. We are not able to do this on your behalf as it is between you and your health fund.
When making claims via the HICAPS terminal, the most common reasons why your health insurer is not paying a benefit for your treatment includes;
Reason | Explanation | Next Steps |
Limit Reached | You have reached the annual benefit limits on your policy | You will need to pay for your treatment out-of-pocket |
Waiting Period | You have not completed the waiting period | You will need to pay for your treatment out-of-pocket |
Refer to Fund | There may be an outstanding issue or other reason | Please contact your health insurer |
Membership
Un-financial |
Your policy premiums have not been paid / are not up to date | Please contact your health insurer.
It’s possible the scheduled payment bounced due to expired credit card or insufficient funds in your account |
No Ancillary cover | Dental cover is not included in your health insurance policy | You will need to pay for your treatment out-of-pocket |
System Problem | There is a problem with the health insurer’s systems and we are unable to communicate and claim directly at this time | You will need to pay for your treatment out-of-pocket and claim directly from the health insurer at a later date. For treatments under our No Gaps policy, a refund may be available. |
There are over one thousand item numbers covering the different types of dental treatment.
We have summarised the most common item numbers below;
Item Number | Treatment Description |
Examination and Diagnostic Treatments | |
011 | Comprehensive oral examination |
012 | Periodic oral examination |
013 | Oral examination – limited |
014 | Consultation |
015 | Consultation – extended (30 minutes or more) |
022 | Intraoral periapical or bitewing radiograph – per exposure |
036 | Cephalometric radiograph – lateral, antero-posterior, postero-anterior or submento-vertex – per exposure |
037 | Panoramic radiograph – per exposure |
072 | Photographic records – intraoral |
073 | Photographic records – extraoral |
Preventative Treatments | |
114 | Removal of calculus – first appointment |
119 | Bleaching, home application – per arch |
121 | Topical application of remineralizing and/or cariostatic agents, one treatment |
141 | Oral hygiene instruction |
151 | Provision of a mouthguard – indirect |
161 | Fissure sealing – per tooth |
165 | Desensitising procedure – per appointment |
Periodontal (Gums) Treatments | |
221 | Clinical periodontal analysis and recording |
222 | Periodontal debridement – per tooth |
Oral Surgery (Extractions) | |
311 | Removal of a tooth or part(s) thereof |
314 | Sectional removal of a tooth or part(s) thereof |
322 | Surgical removal of a tooth or tooth fragment not requiring removal of bone or tooth division |
323 | Surgical removal of a tooth or tooth fragment requiring removal of bone |
324 | Surgical removal of a tooth or tooth fragment requiring both removal of bone and tooth divison |
Endodontic (Root Canal) Treatment | |
411 | Direct pulp capping |
414 | Pulpotomy |
415 | Complete chemo-mechanical preparation of root canal – one canal |
416 | Complete chemo-mechanical preparation of root canal – each additional canal |
417 | Root canal obturation – one canal |
418 | Root canal obturation – each additional canal |
419 | Extirpation of pulp or debridement of root canal(s) – emergency or palliative |
455 | Additional visit for irrigation and/or dressing of the root canal system – per tooth |
Restorative (Fillings) Treatment | |
521 | Adhesive restoration – 1 surface – anterior tooth – direct |
522 | Adhesive restoration – 2 surfaces – anterior tooth – direct |
523 | Adhesive restoration – 3 surfaces – anterior tooth – direct |
524 | Adhesive restoration – 4 surfaces – anterior tooth – direct |
525 | Adhesive restoration – 5 surfaces – anterior tooth – direct |
526 | Adhesive restoration – veneer – anterior tooth – direct |
531 | Adhesive restoration – 1 surface – posterior tooth – direct |
532 | Adhesive restoration – 2 surfaces – posterior tooth – direct |
533 | Adhesive restoration –3 surfaces – posterior tooth – direct |
534 | Adhesive restoration – 4 surfaces – posterior tooth – direct |
535 | Adhesive restoration – 5 surfaces – posterior tooth – direct |
536 | Adhesive restoration – veneer – posterior tooth – direct |
551 | Tooth-coloured restoration – one surface – indirect |
552 | Tooth-coloured restoration – two surfaces – indirect |
553 | Tooth-coloured restoration – three surfaces – indirect |
554 | Non-metallic restoration – four surfaces – indirect |
555 | Non-metallic restoration – five surfaces – indirect |
556 | Tooth coloured restoration – veneer – indirect |
Prosthodontics (Crowns & Bridges) | |
613 | Full crown – non metallic – indirect (Emax crown – Build up technique) |
615 | Full crown – veneered – indirect (Fused to non-precious metal) |
643 | Bridge pontic – indirect – per pontic |
625 | Post and core for crown – indirect |
Prosthodontics (Implants & Implant Crowns) | |
671 | Full crown attached to osseointegrated implant – non-metallic – indirect |
672 | Full crown attached to osseointegrated implant – veneered – indirect |
673 | Full crown attached to osseointegrated implant – metallic – indirect |
684 | Insertion of first stage of two-stage endosseous implant – per implant |
688 | Insertion of one-stage endosseous implant – per implant |
Prosthodontics (Dentures) | |
711 | Complete maxillary denture |
712 | Complete mandibular denture |
719 | Complete maxillary and mandibular dentures |
721 | Partial maxillary denture – resin base |
722 | Partial mandibular denture – resin base |
727 | Partial maxillary denture – cast metal framework |
728 | Partial mandibular denture – cast metal framework |
Occlusal Therapy | |
965 | Occlusal splint |
Health Insurers normally split dental treatment into two categories:
- General Dental and
- Major Dental
General Dental covers the basic level of dental treatments and normally includes; examinations, dental check-ups, clean and polish, simple extractions, fillings and x-rays.
Major Dental is a higher level of cover, and normally covers root canal treatment, treating gum disease, crowns, bridges, dentures and veneers.
Before claiming a benefit for major dental treatment, the health insurer will usually impose a “waiting period” of 2 or so months.
At a minimum, almost all health funds will pay a benefit for two dental check-ups per year, and with our ‘No Gaps Guarantee’ there will be no out-of-pocket cost for these procedures.
Our No Gaps Guarantee covers Simple Fillings, but what is a simple filling?
A tooth consists of 5 surfaces – the top, and four sides. At No Gaps Dental, we categorise filling complexity by the number of surfaces that has decay and therefore need to be filled.
Here is a simple overview of our filling categorisation:
Description | Simple / small fillings | Medium fillings | Complex / large Fillings |
Identifier | 1 surface | 2 surfaces | 3, 4 and 5 surfaces |
Item Numbers | 521, 531 | 522, 532 | 523, 524, 525,
533, 534, 535 |
No Gaps Guarantee | Yes | Depending on clinic location | No |
What am I covered for?
It’s a good idea to regularly review your health insurance cover to make sure it covers you for the treatment you need. To review your cover, please contact your health insurer directly.
We will provide you with a treatment plan and can run a quote (for most health funds), and we will obtain your consent before undertaking any treatment.
What does the No Gaps Guarantee cover?
Our No Gaps Guarantee means no out-of-pocket expenses for your dental check-ups, teeth scaling & cleaning, fluoride applications, x-rays and simple fillings.
Our No Gaps Guarantee does not apply to all types of treatment. This is due to the declining rebates from health insurers and the rising costs of operating our practices. To remain sustainable while maintaining our commitment to delivering quality care and value to our patients, some treatments incur an out-of-pocket fee. This allows us to maintain the high standards of care and service that our patients deserve.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team.
There are many different health funds that offer dental cover. Each fund have their own way of determining the benefit they will cover for your dental treatment.
Here are some factors you want to consider when selecting the right dental cover for you;
Per person limits
It is important to know the limits each person can claim for dental treatment each year. If you have a family policy, consider whether the limit is per person or one limit for the whole family.
Percentage versus fixed
Health funds either pay up to a fixed amount towards your dental treatment, or they will pay a fixed percentage of the treatment costs, up to a fixed amount.
Annual limits
Health funds will always specify the maximum benefits they will pay each year, per person or family.
Coverage
Depending on the type of policy, dental cover will normally be divided into General Dental and Major dental. Your policy will state whether you are covered for either or both, and will also state limits per person specified for each category.
With our ‘No Gaps Guarantee’ we will accept the benefit paid by your health insurer as full payment, provided no limits have been reached, for our preventative and restorative treatments, including examinations, scale & cleaning, fluoride, x-rays, sealants and simple fillings.
If you have health insurance and you are covered for dental, the cost of your dental treatment will be paid for in 2 parts:
- The benefit amount that your health insurer will pay
- The out-of-pocket amount that you will need to pay
Every health insurer has their own method to determine the benefit amount they will pay towards your dental treatment.
Health insurers will normally pay on your behalf either a fix amount, or a fixed percentage of the treatment costs up until your annual limit. The level of benefit paid by your health insurer will also depend on the policy you have taken out (e.g. Bronze, Silver or Gold)
For treatments that are covered under our No Gaps Policy, as long as you have met the conditions under the policy, the cost of your dental treatment will be covered by your health insurance. That means that there is no out-of-pocket amount to be paid by you. For all other treatments, there will be an out-of-pocket amount that you will need to pay for.
When your dentist provides you with a treatment plan, you can contact your health insurer and request a quote to see how much benefit they will pay towards your treatment. This will give you an idea of how much out-of-pocket you will need to pay.
Prices
For those with no health insurance, our basic exam costs $100 for a 30 minute appointment.
We also offer a Hygiene package for $199 ($150 for children under 12 years of age) which includes:
- Dental check-up (Clinician will take a look at your teeth, and let you know what needs to be done)
- Scale and clean
- Two small digital x-rays (bite wings)
- Fluoride treatment
For those with health insurance, your dental check up (the same treatments as listed above will be performed) is included under our ‘No Gaps Guarantee’, with no out-of-pocket expenses.
If you have private health insurance and you are covered for dental, the cost of your dental treatment can be paid for in 2 parts:
- The benefit amount that your health insurer will pay
- The out-of-pocket amount (referred to as the Gap) that you will need to pay
“No Gaps” means that if you have private health insurance and you are covered for dental, we accept the benefit paid by your health insurer as full payment, which means don’t need to pay the out of pocket amount.
You can take advantage of the “No Gaps” as long as
- you have not reached your benefit limits with your health insurer and a full benefit is received for each treatment item (“full benefit” does not mean 100% of the cost of treatment; it is the full benefit amount which your health fund would have typically contributed), and
- you have your current working health fund card with you on the day of treatment. Can be either the physical card, or a digital card.
The ‘Gap’ or ‘out of pocket’ amount is the difference between the ‘price of the treatment’ and the ‘benefit’ paid by your health insurer.
For example;
Treatment | Price | Benefit paid by health fund | Gap | What you need to pay us |
Consultation | $100.00 | $50.00 | $50.00 | $0.00 |
Scale and Clean | $200.00 | $100.00 | $100.00 | $0.00 |
X-ray | $60.00 | $30.00 | $30.00 | $0.00 |
X-ray | $60.00 | $30.00 | $30.00 | $0.00 |
TOTALS | $420.00 | $210.00 | $210.00 | $0.00 |
Under our No Gaps Guarantee, in this example, we will waive the $210 gap payment due.
We have a number of ‘no gap’ treatments including;
- Dental Check up / examination
- Scale and Clean
- Fluoride treatment
- X-rays (including small x-rays, OPGs and CBCTs)
- Simple Restorative Fillings (white / tooth coloured composite material)
For all other dental treatment, you will need to pay the ‘Gap’ amount. For more information on what types of payment we accept, see Payment Options.
Every dental crown is tailored made to your individual needs and circumstances. As this crown will be in your mouth for many years, there is a lot that goes into getting the crown right; fit, colour, bite, durability, longevity. For such a tailored product, there is a lot of technology and skill that go into producing a gold star crown for you.
Dentistry being a professional service is not a commodity and treatment tailored to the needs of each individual patient. At No Gaps Dental, our value proposition is to make our treatments affordable, for our communities.
Under our No Gaps Guarantee, you can have your preventative and restorative treatments and pay $0 out of pocket. For more information, see our No Gaps information page.
Our priority is to deliver the highest quality treatments to you by using the latest technology, and to deliver in a very hygienic and controlled environment. The costs to provide such quality treatments in such an environment are ever increasing.
Throughout the year, we do offer promotional prices on some of our treatments, so look out for them on our website.
The cost of root canal varies with the number of canals needing treatment. Canals vary with tooth type, on average ranging from your front teeth with 1-2 canals, to your back molars with 3-4 canals. Each fragile canal needs to be carefully cleaned, medicated and filled, requiring a lot of time, precision, materials and medication to treat the tooth successfully. Even in the best of circumstances, root canal therapy is never 100% guaranteed success depending also on how your body reacts to the treatment over time.
Area Health Services: Hospital Vouchers
The ‘Oral Health Fee for Service Scheme’ (OHFFSS) allows public dental services to be performed by private dental practitioners, such as No Gaps Dental, by using an OHFFSS Voucher.
Only a selected number of our dentists are registered with this scheme, and they do accept OHFFSS Vouchers and bulk bill under this scheme. This means we accept the voucher as full payment for your treatment.
As an OHFSS provider, we must comply with the Terms and Conditions outlined in the Scheme’s Policy Directive.
The vouchers will specify the treatment we are allowed to perform according to the OHFSS terms and conditions. If you require other treatment, you must obtain the consent of the authorising dentist and a new voucher before we can undertake treatment.
To find out which dentists accept OHFSS vouchers, please call the relevant location to speak to our customer service team.
Payment methods
We accept all major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard and American Express.
We do not charge any surcharges or fees on credit card transactions.
We offer payment plans to our patients to help pay for certain dental treatments in installments over a period of time. This can assist in managing the financial pressures to get the dental treatment you need now.
Please reach out to our clinics for payment plans available for Orthodontics and Clear Aligners.
We also offer SuperCare, which are available for all dental treatments for eligible patients.
There’s no need to delay your dental treatment; call us now!
Full payment is required on the day you receive treatment.
We accept payment by EFTPOS, Master card, Visa card and American Express, and we do not charge any surcharges for payment by credit cards.
We do not accept personal cheques.
We also offer Payment Plans for certain dental treatments
In addition to accepting patients with Health Insurance cover for dental, we provide treatment under the Medicare CDBS, Veterans Affairs, and we accept Hospital Vouchers.
Bulk Billing: Medicare & Veterans Affairs
We do bulk bill treatments for patients holding the following Veteran Affairs cards;
- Veteran Gold Card; and
- Veteran White Cards.
Please click HERE to see what treatments are covered and the fees the Department of Veteran Affairs will pay on your behalf.
Things you should know about your Veteran Affairs card;
- Regular check-ups are usually once every 6 months. If you need more frequent check-ups, your dentist can contact us for approval.
- If your dentures get lost or broken, DVA may pay for a replacement. Please speak with us, as we may need to complete a signed written declaration stating why you need a replacement.
Medicare does not cover for dental care, except for under the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
If your child is eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, Medicare will send you a letter confirming your child’s eligibility.
Here is a copy of what the Medicare CDBS eligibility letter looks like.
Yes, No Gaps Dental bulk bills under the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS). This means you do not have to pay for your child’s treatment covered under the CDBS. We will accept the rebate paid by Medicare as full payment for your child’s treatment.
Please let us know when making your child’s appointment that they are eligible under the schedule. If the $1,000 benefit limit has been reached, or the treatment required is not covered under the CDBS, we will be sure to let you know beforehand.
We have a Hicaps EFTPOS terminal on site to swipe your Medicare Card, and make the claim on the spot.
If your child is eligible for the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule, as the parent or guardian, you will receive a letter from Medicare – you do not need to apply.
Your child can get CDBS when:
- they are eligible for Medicare
- they are between 2 and 17 years old for at least 1 day that calendar year
- you or they get an eligible payment (such as Family Tax Benefit – Part A, Parenting Payment, ABSTUDY, Disability Support Pension, Youth Allowance etc.) at least once that year.
For more information, visit the CDBS section on Medicare website.
Under the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), Medicare covers up to $1,000 of basic dental treatment over 2 calendar years for eligible children aged between 2 and 17 years old.
The treatments covered include:
- Dental check-ups
- X-rays
- Cleaning
- Fissure sealants
- Fillings
- Root canals treatment
Extraction
During your initial consultation, our dental professional will walk you through the treatment plan and provide information on what needs to be done before and after the oral surgery.
A treatment consent form will also be provided which details the reasons for the treatment, risks associated with the treatment, and risks of not getting the treatment done.
Once agreed, a detailed pre-operative procedure will be given to ensure the smoothest possible outcome.
After the procedure, you and your support person (if you brought one) will be informed of the post-operative procedures to reduce the risk of complications that could pro-long the healing process.
If you have any concerns, our dental professionals are here to answer your questions, so don’t hesitate to ask! Call us today to book your appointment.
Most people dread the idea of having their teeth pulled out. Before resorting to extracting a tooth, the dentist will always explore options to save the tooth first. Sometimes extraction is the only option because leaving the tooth in question in the mouth could pose an array of other serious problems.
So, when do you really need to have your tooth extracted?
Decay
The most common reason a dentist would recommend a tooth extraction is when a tooth can no longer be saved due to decay. Plaque build-up causes tooth decay, and the bacteria produced can cause infection. When the infection becomes severe and root canal treatment can no longer save it, tooth extraction may be needed to prevent the infection from spreading further.
Gum Disease
If detected early, gum disease is easy to treat, but if it does not receive timely treatment, it can worsen. This can lead to severe damage to your gum tissue, causing your tooth to become loose and need to be extracted.
Overcrowding
If you undergo orthodontic treatment, tooth extraction may be recommended, especially if your teeth have no space to move or realign due to overcrowding. This is usually the case for those with larger teeth in a small jaw, which contributes to unwanted crowding.
Impacted Tooth
A tooth is impacted when it is blocked from coming out, usually due to not having enough room to grow upright, so it grows inward towards the rest of the teeth. This is usually the case for wisdom teeth. You may be recommended to extract your wisdom teeth to prevent damage to your other teeth.
Accidents / Trauma
If you are in an accident, or have some trauma to your mouth and teeth, the damage caused may be too severe to save. If this is the case, tooth extraction would be the best option to prevent the damaged teeth from becoming infected.
Think you need a tooth extracted? Having your tooth extracted can be the impulse decision, especially when you’re in pain, but it may not be the best solution.
Contact us to discuss whether tooth extraction is the best option for you.
Wisdom teeth or third molars become impacted when the jaw doesn’t have enough room for all the teeth to grow upright, causing the tooth to grow inwards towards the rest of the teeth. This can lead to several dental problems, including tooth decay and gum disease.
SYMPTOMS
The pain of impacted wisdom teeth is usually enough for you to know that there’s something wrong. However, knowing the symptoms of this dental problem can help you identify the cause of the pain early.
- Swollen, tender, and bleeding gums
- Pain on the jaw, gum, or the impacted tooth
- Swelling around the jaw
- Bad breath
- An unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth
PREVENTION
You can’t keep an impacted wisdom tooth from occurring, but keeping regular six-monthly dental appointments for cleaning and checkups allows your dentist to monitor the growth and emergence of your wisdom teeth. Regularly updated dental X-rays may indicate impacted wisdom teeth before any symptoms develop.
If you are experiencing any of the above mentioned symptoms or want to check the status of your wisdom teeth before they cause you pain, contact us right away to schedule an appointment.
Every patient is unique, so there’s no definite answer as to how long before you can get back to work, post-dental surgery.
The recovery period varies from patient to patient as there are several factors to consider, such as:
- Your overall health – age, illness, medication, and lifestyle are just some things to consider.
- The type of dental surgery done – some dental procedures are more complex and thus take longer to heal. For example, a single tooth extraction may allow you to return to work the next day. Multiple wisdom teeth extractions may require you to be off from work for a week.
- Your compliance with the aftercare instructions – following your dentist’s post-operative instructions is crucial to reduce the risk of complications that could derail the healing process.
- Nature of your work – if your job involves strenuous activities such as heavy lifting, you may need to take more time off or negotiate your workload with your employer.
During your initial consultation and after your surgical treatment, your dentist will provide you with a timeline of the expected recovery period based on the specifics of your case.
Afraid you’ll have to take a long time off work after dental surgery? We’ll do our best to ensure that you can return to work as soon as possible after your surgical treatment. Book an appointment now!
Crowns & Bridges
Tired of having multiple appointments for your crown? Can’t tolerate the manual putty impression?
Here at No Gaps Dental, we use the latest 3D dental technology to provide you with quality and precise oral services that will not only save your time but provide you convenience and comfort as well. With this cutting-edge technology, we can offer same-day dental crowns and digital impressions.
What are CEREC Crowns and digital impressions?
Digital impressions create computer-generated replicas of hard and soft tissues within your mouth using lasers or optical scanning devices in just a few minutes without the need for the traditional putty impression.
CEREC crowns are designed, created, and fitted all in one visit. To learn more about CEREC Crowns, you can check this article.
What are its biggest benefits?
- TIME
We know that our patients have busy lives, so we’re always looking for ways to shorten treatment time. Rather than waiting for weeks for a new dental crown, you can have it in just one appointment with CEREC crowns.
Taking digital impressions is a speedy & pleasant procedure; you don’t have to spend a long time on our dentist’s chair biting into an impression tray full of putty. All it takes is a few minutes to take digital impressions with the use of a laser scanning device. Digital impressions also reduce impression-taking errors, resulting in a precise accurate finish, thus saving more time.
- PATIENT EXPERIENCE
Since we’re able to create same-day crowns with CEREC technology right in our office, you’ll never have to deal with the inconvenience of a temporary crown.
You also don’t have to go through the discomfort of biting into a tray of pink putty as we know it’s uncomfortable and triggers a gag reflex. Now, we use a slim hand-held device to take detailed pictures of your teeth and gums, creating a digital impression instead.
- ACCURACY
We use digital impressions to take highly accurate scans of your teeth and gums. With this, we can create same-day crowns that look and feel natural. Your CEREC crown will fit better since we base the design on highly precise scans.
The ability to see the impression on-screen allows our dentists to evaluate any errors and have them corrected right then and there while you are still on the chair.
- PATIENT EDUCATION
We know that it can sometimes be a bit difficult to understand what your dentist is saying when discussing the result of your manual impressions. Digital impressions are often easier to understand and can help you feel more engaged with your treatment and the final crown.
With the use of digital impressions wherein it projects the 3D image of your teeth and gums, it’ll be much easier to comprehend the treatment you’ll be undergoing as your dentist has the assistance of this visual aid.
If you need a crown or think you may need one, but multiple visits to a dentist is the last thing you want, you may be interested in our latest CEREC Crowns. Contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our dentists today!
CEREC crowns embrace the latest technology to digitally design and construct crowns, all in one visit. CEREC uses an intra oral digital scanner, to create a digital image of your mouth. Your crown is then digitally designed on the computer. When both the dentist and you are happy with the design, the file is sent to the milling machine, to be milled precisely to our requirements. Precision, accuracy, cosmetic.
The black colouring likely indicates that there is metal underneath the porcelain part of the crown. The black line you see around the crown was probably not there when the crown was first placed. Over time, chronic inflammation of the gum tissue causes it to bleed easily and recede from the metal, exposing the metal. No longer is it necessary to have metal in crowns or that unattractive dark line as we now offer the latest in full porcelain and CEREC crowns.
Do you know that you can get a crown in just one visit?
CEREC crowns are designed, created, and fitted using the latest 3D Scanning and milling technology that will allow you to have a state-of-the-art crown in place, all on the same day. To learn more about what CEREC crowns are, you can check this article.
Presently, the best available crowns are Zirconia and E-max. They are both made from cutting-edge materials that make them natural looking and long-lasting, and they each have their own advantages.
CEREC Zirconia Crowns
Its most significant advantage lies in its durability. It can withstand a lot of pressure without chipping, cracking, or breaking, even when you’re eating the hardest foods out there. This makes it suitable for molars and for those who grind their teeth. Zirconia crowns can look very natural in colour, but are not as translucent as E-max crowns.
CEREC E-max Crowns
When you need a crown on one of your front teeth and want it to look as natural as possible, you may want to consider getting an E-max crown. Its natural translucency mimics the aesthetic of an actual tooth even from up close, making it ideal for your front teeth. It may not be as durable as Zirconia crowns, but it has more than enough durability for your front teeth, and it perfectly blends into your smile.
If you would like to learn more about which type of crown may best suit your situation, please feel free to book a consultation with us. Call us or use our online system to book an appointment now.
There are 2 main types of crowns we offer- full porcelain crowns and porcelain fused to metal crowns.
If you are looking for our best natural looking crown, our ideal crown are our full porcelain crowns. Full porcelain crowns saw early success for their cosmetic attributes, creating those Hollywood smiles. Natural looking, whilst also providing that whiter teeth, whiter smile appearance.
CEREC crowns are one form of full porcelain crown, which are scanned, designed, and constructed all in the one appointment. This is in contrast to the conventional crown making process, which requires 2 visits, potential reflux from the impression taking, waiting 2 weeks for your crown to be made by a dental lab, and then numbing you up again at the 2nd visit to set the final crown on the tooth.
Orthodontics & Clear Aligners
A retainer is an orthodontic appliance that is worn after braces. They help hold the teeth in place to ensure that no shifting occurs after the braces are removed. Retainers can be either permanent or removable. Regardless of the type of retainer you have, it is important to wear it as recommended to maintain the results from your braces treatment. A lack of retainer use can result in the teeth shifting out of their position, which may require a repeated braces treatment.
We offer 3 different types of retainers;
- Clear Retainer – A clear retainer is a removable, discreet retainer that is clear in colour and fits around the teeth similar to a mouthguard. It is clear in colour so that it does not affect the appearance of the smile. Since it is removable, it is recommended that patients remove it while eating, brushing, and flossing.
- Traditional Wire Retainer – Wire retainers are the most common type of retainer; they are also known as Hawley retainers. These retainers have an acrylic base which sits on the roof of the mouth. From the base, a single wire reaches around and along the front of the teeth to secure their position. Wire retainers are removable so that patients can eat, brush, and floss without hindrance.
- Permanent Retainer – A permanent retainer, also called a bonded retainer or a lingual retainer, is a single wire that is cemented behind the teeth. Permanent retainers offer a discreet look, without affecting the smile. However, since they are not removable, patients will have to take extra care when brushing or flossing to ensure that there is no food caught in the appliance.
If you are in need of a retainer, please make an appointment online via our website for an orthodontic consultation.
Clear Aligners including such brands as Invisalign®, has changed the face of teeth straightening. Instead of wires attached to your teeth, your teeth can be straightened invisibly.
The key benefits of clear aligner therapy compared to traditional braces include;
- Aligners are close to invisable. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.
- Aligners are removable. Unlike braces, you can eat and drink what you want during treatment. You can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Aligners are comfortable. No metal brackets or wires to cause mouth irritation, and less time in the dentist’s chair getting adjustments.
Clear Aligner come in handy in the treatment of many alignment problems in both adults and children including;
- Gaps: Gaps can leave your teeth vulnerable to decay and your gums vulnerable to infection. Invisalign can easily bring teeth together and close considerable gaps.
- Crowding: Crowding occurs when the teeth grow too close together and displace each other. Crowding makes it difficult to floss and brush properly and can increase one’s risk of gum disease or tooth decay.
- Improper Bite: The misalignment of teeth can lead to an improper bite, which can in turn cause a number of jaw complications. Common bite problems include an overbite, underbite, and crossbite. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is one condition associated with bite issues.
If you would like to know about our Orthodontic treatments, schedule a Free orthodontic appointment with us here
Invisalign® is a revolutionary new treatment that forgoes the metal bracket and wires braces of old in favour of clear acrylic aligners that gently guide the patient’s teeth into place. Patients wear an average of 20 to 30 sets of aligners, over a period of 12-18 months to achieve their desired results, all without painful wire tightening appointments or food restrictions. We offer this incredible orthodontic treatment for our patients who long for a straight, beautiful smile.
Who can use Invisalign?
The advent of Invisalign® means that orthodontic treatment no longer benefits only teenagers. We treat many adults with Invisalign, including many who wore traditional metal braces as teens. Invisalign aligners can repair many dental problems, such as overbites, underbites, and crooked or rotated teeth.
The aligners work well for patients with wide spaces between their teeth, helping even when other teeth have shifted and moved into those spaces. Adults suffering from malocclusion, which occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t fit well together, often find that Invisalign aligners work wonders for their smiles, preventing the speech problems, teeth grinding (bruxism), TMJ disorder, and frequent biting of the cheeks and tongue the malady often causes.
Pain
See a dentist immediately!
In the meantime
- Handle the tooth carefully by the crown (the top part of the tooth that is normally visible above the gum)
- Clean the tooth with milk or a saline solution before trying to place the tooth back in its socket
- Take pain relief if necessary and do not let the tooth dry out
Call us and let us know your situation. We will do our best to book you in for an emergency appointment straight away.
Depending on the size and the type of break, the dentist may be able to build up your tooth with a filling. Heavily fractured or broken teeth where the nerves are exposed may require more complex treatment such as root canal therapy or tooth removal.
A break or chip may not cause pain immediately, but if left untreated, it could become infected. Better to take caution and see your No Gaps dentist as soon as possible before more serious problems arise.
After an extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. That’s why we ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes after extraction. If bleeding or oozing continues after you remove the gauze pad, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another thirty minutes. You may have to do this several times.
After the blood clot forms it is important to protect it especially for the next 24 hours.
So Don’t:
- Smoke
- Suck through a straw
- Rinse your mouth vigorously
- Clean the teeth next to the extraction site
These activities will dislodge the clot and slow down healing. Limit yourself to calm activities for the first 24 hours, this keeps your blood pressure lower, reduces bleeding, and helps the healing process.
After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and have some swelling. You can use an ice bag to keep this to a minimum. The swelling usually starts to go down after 48 hours.
If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if all symptoms and signs of infection are gone.
Gently rinse your mouth with salt water three times a day beginning the day after the extraction (a tsp of salt in a cup of warm water, rinse-swish-spit). Also, rinse gently after meals, it helps keep food out of the extraction site. It is very important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours; this should include brushing your teeth and tongue and flossing at least once a day. This speeds healing and helps keep your breath and mouth fresh.
When diagnosing whether you should have your wisdom teeth (3rd molars) removed, we will need to take an OPG x-ray to see your whole mouth in a two dimensional view.
Generally, wisdom teeth need to be removed for the following common reasons;
- The wisdom tooth has a big cavity and it would be difficult to fix due to how far back in the mouth they are. If they cannot be kept clean, cavities will continue to form again and again.
- If they can only erupt partially and are still partially covered by gum tissue, that’s a great place for bacteria to grow since it’s very difficult to clean them. If the bacteria grow out of control, the infection can be extremely painful. It can be easily treated with antibiotics, but if the tooth stays there, it can certainly happen again.
- If they are impacted and resting directly against the back of the molar just in front of them, such that neither the gum nor bone can attach in that area. Again, those areas are bacteria and food traps, and sometimes cavities will form way down on the roots of the 2nd molars, and they can be difficult to fix.
If you would like us to review your wisdom teeth, please book a consultation with us here
After a tooth extraction, sometimes a dry socket happens when a blood clot either does not form properly, or falls out. The lack of a protective blood clot exposes both the nerves and bone.
Dry socket can be very painful, but it usually heals quickly with treatment. Symptoms of dry socket include:
- throbbing pain that may extend to the jaw, eyes, and ears
- an unpleasant taste in the mouth
- bad breath
- mild fever
People may experience dry sockets for up to a few days after a tooth extraction.
It is best to come to see us to treat the dry socket, but here are a few home remedies you can try to ease the pain:
- Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help reduce bacteria and swelling. It can also flush out any food particles from the socket. Keeping this area clean can reduce pain and lower the risk of infection.
- A 2016 study showed that applying a honey dressing can reduce pain and inflammation in people with dry sockets. Honey has antibacterial properties and may protect against infection.
- Green and black teas are a traditional home remedy for tooth pain. They have antibacterial properties that can help prevent infection. Green tea also has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce pain.
If you think you have a dry socket, call or book an appointment online. If possible, it is best to see the same dentist who did the tooth extraction.
Oral Hygiene: Teeth & Gums
X-rays help your dentist to see the condition of your teeth, their roots, jaw placement and the overall composition of your facial bones, which are not visible to the naked eye.
X-Rays can help your dentist determine the presence or degree of periodontal disease, abscesses and many abnormal growths, such as cysts and tumours. X-rays can also show the exact location of impacted teeth (teeth that are under the gums, such as wisdom teeth). They can pinpoint the location of cavities and other signs of disease (such as changes in the jaw bone structure as a result of systemic disease) that may not be possible to detect through visual examination.
If you are experiencing pain, your dentist will take an x-ray to better understand the cause of the pain.
Your oral condition changes over time so x-rays are normally taken regularly (usually every 2 years) to review your condition at that moment in time. If you are a new patient with us, it is normal procedure for the dentist to take x-rays of your back teeth, as well as an OPG.
If you have bad breath, cavities or are at a high risk of contracting gum disease, we may recommend an antibacterial mouthwash such as Savacol.
Mouth rinses with fluoride can also help ward off tooth decay.
Sleep apnoea is a condition that makes it difficult for your body to receive the oxygen it needs to properly function. Without enough oxygen, you will feel drained and sluggish, but since the condition manifests itself at night, most people have no idea that they have it.
There are many health problems that can arise from untreated sleep apnoea. They can include a stroke, high blood pressure, headaches, diabetes, depression, mood swings, heart failure, ADHD that becomes worse, and an overall lack of well being.
Treating Sleep Apnoea
At No Gaps Dental, we recommend that patients explore all non-invasive treatment options first. This is why we will often suggest our patients to wear a removable oral appliance. Wearing an oral appliance is incredibly easy. It is customised for your mouth specifically so it fits snugly and securely. As a result, you can simply slip it into place when you go to sleep. It remains in place inside of your mouth and does an excellent job of holding your lower jaw in the forward position. This prevents your tongue from falling backward and keeps your airway clear.
If you would like to know more about our treatments for Sleep Apnoea, please book a consultation with us online here
Your dentist may have applied tropical fluoride to your teeth at the end of your hygiene appointment.
It is best to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after the treatment so the fluoride has time to fully absorb into your teeth.
We recommend flossing between your teeth once a day. Flossing between your teeth removes plaque and can prevent cavities and gum disease. Plaque contains bacteria that feeds on leftover food or sugar in your mouth. When that happens, it releases an acid that can eat away at the outer shell of your teeth and cause cavities.
There are factors that influence how soon you can eat or drink after a certain dental procedure.
Teeth scaling and cleaning – You can immediately eat/drink after having your teeth cleaned however, some people’s teeth are sensitive after cleaning so to avoid any discomfort, you should avoid extremely cold or hot food/drink.
An exemption to this is if you receive fluoride treatment. Flouride treatment repairs the enamel of your teeth and helps strengthen them against decay. Eating or drinking immediately may remove the fluoride treatment so it is recommended to wait 30 minutes for it to have enough time to seal around your teeth.
Composite Filling – Our white, tooth coloured fillings hardens instantly so you can eat and drink immediately.
Whitening – It is best to wait a day or so before eating or drinking anything that may stain or irritate your teeth.
Extraction – Typically, you can start eating once the anaesthetic wears off. It is recommended though to avoid chewing and to stick to liquids or soft foods until your gums heal. You can click here for extraction aftercare instructions.
Fissure Sealants – You don’t need to wait, you can enjoy something to eat right after leaving the clinic.
Root Canal Treatment – You can already eat once your temporary filling fully hardens after 30-45 minutes but it’s generally recommended, like any other procedures, to wait for your anesthetic to wear off to prevent biting your cheek or tongue. It is also recommended to avoid hard foods for 24 hours.
Braces – It is okay to eat right after the procedure but your mouth may be sensitive for days after your appointment so it is recommended to only eat soft foods while your mouth and teeth adjust.
Crown or Bridge – It is best to wait at least 30 to 45 minutes. However, most dentists recommend waiting as long as possible before eating and drinking after crown/bridge placement. Our dentist will detail post-operative instructions specific to the cement that they use.
Dental Implants – You can eat immediately after your dental implant but your gums will be tender and slightly swollen for the first few days so it is suggested to stick to liquid or soft foods for the time being.
Another factor to consider:
Local Anaesthetic – if you had a local anaesthetic, you may want to wait for the numbing agent to wear off before eating anything to avoid biting your tongue or cheeks. It usually wears off in 1 to 3 hours.
Your dentist will provide you with specific aftercare instructions so it is still best to talk to your Dentist if you have any concerns.
One of the major causes of bleeding, swollen and receding gums is periodontal disease. Gingivitis makes the gums irritated, inflamed and may cause bleeding during brushing or flossing. There are also medical conditions and medications that can cause these symptoms.
How Does Periodontal Disease Develop?
In general, the progression of gum disease can be classified into three main stages:
- Stage 1 – Gingivitis: The first stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is characterised by a swelling of the gums, as plaque begins to irritate periodontal tissues. Furthermore, patients with gingivitis will often bleed during normal brushing and flossing.
- Stage 2 – Periodontitis: During this stage, the fibers and bones that support teeth will become damaged. Patients with periodontitis will usually begin to feel some discomfort or soreness in and around their gums, and some of their teeth may begin to loosen.
- Stage 3 – Advanced Periodontitis: Advanced periodontitis is the most serious form of gum disease. During this stage, a patient’s periodontal tissues will become severely damaged and broken down. Patients can begin to lose teeth and will likely have visible tissue damage and experience constant pain.
See a Dentist immediately
The extent and cause of the problem dictates the most effective treatment. In most instances, especially when the disease is detected early, a thorough cleaning, scaling and root planing by your dentist may be enough to halt further damage. For those who are vulnerable due to genetics, hormonal changes or medications, more frequent visits to the dentist for cleaning and monitoring of the disease may be necessary.
In severe cases, antibiotics may be required to stop an infection. Surgery could be necessary to repair the gums. In these situations, ongoing treatment is needed before the disease is brought under control.
If you notice any of these symptoms, please make an appointment online via our website for a Periodontal Consultation.
The old silver (amalgam) fillings can leak over time, causing decay to re-enter the tooth, which may cause sensitivity. A great option to replace your silver fillings are porcelain CEREC inlays and onlays, which provide an optimal aesthetic and healthy result.
If you would like to know more about inlays and onlays, you can make a CEREC appointment online here.
Seeing your dentist during pregnancy is not only safe but recommended.
The increase in hormones during pregnancy can cause gums to swell which can lead to food getting trapped between teeth. This can cause gum disease or infection. Vomiting due to morning sickness also exposes your teeth to harsh acids.
Oral hygiene impacts one’s overall health, so it’s important to maintain good oral health for both you and your baby.
What dental treatments or procedures can be performed during pregnancy?
Your routine hygiene appointment is important as it keeps any potential gum or tooth infection at bay and can be done safely anytime during pregnancy. As for other procedures; it is recommended to be done by the second trimester. The third trimester is safe, but you might have a hard time laying back for an extended period of time.
In case of emergency dental work, such as a root canal, or tooth extraction, don’t hesitate to visit your dentist anytime during pregnancy as the benefits of seeing your dentist far outweigh the risks.
Dental X-rays, use very low doses of radiation and is considered safe with appropriate shielding. Although x-rays are safe, your dentist may still recommend avoiding them especially during the first trimester but if you have an emergency, x-rays could still be needed to help your dentist plan your treatment effectively.
For most non-essential or elective treatments such as teeth whitening or other cosmetic procedures, your dentist may recommend delaying until after the birth.
If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, please inform our practice when making an appointment.
Our dentists use an ultra sonic scaler and water to remove calculus build up from your teeth. The scaler uses vibrations to effectively loosen the calculus with ease and water is sprayed into your mouth to wash the debris away.
The ultra sonic scaler may cause a screeching noise, but rest assured, our dentists are well trained to use such devices safely on your teeth.
Our hygiene package is a great way to have your regular preventative check up and clean for a fraction of the price.
For $199, our hygiene package includes the following treatments;
Item No. | Treatment |
011 | Full mouth examination |
022 | Digital x-ray |
114 | Teeth scale and clean |
121 | Fluoride application |
For the vast majority of people, we recommend a soft bristled brush used with the proper brushing technique. This means holding your brush at a 45-degree angle, positioned where your tooth and gum tissue meet. This can help clean under your gums. Also remember to brush your teeth’s surface gently, in a circular pattern – avoid roughly scrubbing in a back-and-forth motion. This can damage your gums!
There are many toothpastes types and brands available in our supermarkets, and all serving particular oral hygiene needs of each individual. Generally, we recommend brushing your teeth with toothpaste that contains fluoride because it is the mineral that is instrumental in fighting cavities and helps reduce tooth decay. Fluoride also protects teeth from the acid that is released by the bacteria that feed on the starch and sugar lingering in your mouth after eating. Fluoride also strengthens your enamel, making it less likely for teeth to suffer acid damage.
It’s important to know to care for and clean that important piece of sporting gear. Here’s a few of the Australian Dental Association’s recommendations:
- Always wear your mouthguard, at training, at practice and during the competition.
- Rinse your mouthguard before and after use.
- Wash your mouthguard with a soft brush, soap and water only in cold or lukewarm water.
- Store your mouthguard in a clean, rigid and well ventilated plastic container.
Research studies have shown that topical fluoride applied by the dentist helps to prevent tooth decay by making your teeth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugars in the mouth.
Topical fluoride used by the dentist is highly concentrated and contains much more fluoride than what’s in your water or toothpaste.
If you do not want the dentist to apply fluoride at your hygiene visit, please let the dentist know at the beginning of the appointment.
Implants & Dentures
Dentures are a popular and inexpensive choice for tooth replacement. Unfortunately, they don’t last forever. If you have had your dentures for a few years already, you might wonder when you should replace them or if you even need to replace them.
So, when should you replace your dentures?
It is recommended to have it replaced every 5 to 10 years. However, each person’s situation is different.
Here are the most common signs you should watch out for:
- Loose, Wobbly, Or Falls Out Frequently
The first time you get your dentures, they should offer a snug fit to ensure you can chew and speak properly – however, your gums and jaw change throughout your whole life. Your jawbone starts to lose its volume after you lose your natural teeth, thus affecting the bone’s shape, making your dentures feel loose. Another reason that your dentures may no longer fit correctly in your mouth is that the actual denture material has worn down
- Visible Damage
No matter how you take care of your dentures, they’ll eventually chip, crack, or break as it goes through wear-and-tear from years of grinding and chewing. Accidents and improper care are also culprits for damaging your dentures. Other than causing your dentures not to be pleasing to look at, any cracks or dents can cause more injuries to your mouth. Check for any damage on your denture base or teeth every time you clean it. You can indeed have your dentures repaired, but it will come to a point where it’s cheaper just to have them replaced.
- Unexplained Pain or Discomfort
Wearing your dentures all day long should be comfortable without feeling any pain or discomfort. However, as years go by, as mentioned above, your gums and jawbone change, so your dentures no longer fit the way it was before. Wearing dentures should not be a burden. If you feel something “off” with your dentures, have a dentist or prosthetist check on it.
- Gum Irritation Or Pressure Sores
Dentures make constant contact with your gums, so when dentures don’t fit correctly, or if it’s damaged, it can cause gum irritation or painful mouth sores. These sores will make eating or talking feel very uncomfortable. Look out for signs of redness or inflammation in your mouth or gums.
- Biting The Inside Of Mouth Or Cheek
Poorly-fitting or worn-out dentures may not always hold back your inner cheek tissue sufficiently when eating, causing you to regularly bite into part of your inner cheek.
- Discolouration
Like natural teeth, dentures can experience discolouration over time due to exposure to some foods, drinks, and/or substances. Improper cleaning may also cause your dentures to change colour eventually. If it becomes stained and you longer want the way it looks, it may be best to replace them so that you can smile confidently again.
- Speech Problem
Most people go through a brief adjustment period to be able to speak clearly with dentures. Just like eating, talking relies on your teeth, so wearing your dentures for the first time may cause slurred speech, lisping, or excessive salivation. However, this should only last for a few weeks. If this never goes away or comes back after some time, this only means that your dentures need to be adjusted or replaced.
- Difficulty in Eating
One of the main reasons why someone will be getting a denture is to be able to eat properly. Just like with speaking, it may take a few weeks after wearing your dentures for the first time to restore your regular eating habits. But if it still makes chewing difficult even after weeks of wearing it, or if after years of wearing it, you find yourself not being able to chew well again, it may be time to have it replaced.
- Looking Older Than Your Age
After losing your natural teeth, your jaw bone starts to resorb, thus changing your facial structure. This can make your face sag or cause wrinkles around your mouth, making you look older than you really are. Having well-fitted dentures helps slow down the bone resorption process. If you think your denture makes you look older, you may want to consider replacing them.
- Don’t Look Natural
People get dentures not only to be able to eat and speak well but also to be able to smile confidently. If your dentures are too small, too big, or don’t compliment your face, it may be high time to replace them to achieve a natural-looking smile again.
Now that you have learned the signs to look for, have you realised that you need new dentures? We want you to eat, talk, and smile confidently and comfortably. If you’re still in doubt, the easiest way to check is to have one of our dentists look them over. Contact us now or book an appointment here
Dental implants are a common tooth replacement solution regardless of whether your teeth have been lost due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. You can use dental implants to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or a full upper and/or lower set of teeth. If you need to restore all your upper teeth or all your lower teeth, we can assess whether or not you are a candidate for a treatment called All-on-4 Dental Implants. During this treatment, we place four implants and then attach a full arch of teeth.
There are many factors that our dentists will consider prior to recommending a treatment plan for you. Among these are whether or not you have adequate bone support and healthy gum tissue. Your overall health and the locations of your sinuses and nerves will also be considered. During your in-depth initial consultation, our dentists will complete a comprehensive oral exam and review your medical and dental history. They will usually use 3D CT scanning (x-ray) to assist in diagnosis and treatment planning.
If you would like to know whether dental implants is a viable treatment for you, please make an appointment for a Free implant consultation here
If the dentures crack, chip, feel loose, or break, do not attempt to fix them yourself. At No Gaps Dental, we have the skills and expertise to accurately fix dentures. Far too often, people will attempt to adjust the dentures themselves or even repair them. We do not recommend this since it can result in needing to spend more money on repairs and risk harming the gums.
Dentures are more complex than some people may realise since we customise them to match each individual patient’s teeth. Some people may only need to replace a few teeth, while others will need to replace all of their teeth. With that in mind, there is no one-size-fits-all pair of dentures. Thus, damaging or breaking a pair of dentures will require specialised work from a dental professional. While dentures are durable, they are not indestructible.
You may have heard great things about dental implants, including its longevity, but you may be wondering how long do dental implants actually last.
Dental implant is the best way to replace missing teeth. It is often praised for its sturdiness and longevity. It typically outlasts any other type of dental restoration by a long shot with proper care. Depending on how well maintained and taken care of your implants are, it can even last a lifetime. Your lifestyle and dental hygiene significantly affect its longevity.
The main component of a dental implant is the titanium post that is embedded into your jawbone. This part of the implant has the longest life. The crown, bridge, or restoration attached to the top of the implant may need to be replaced at some point in your life depending on how well it is cared for, but can last for several years. Compared to other teeth replacement alternatives, dental implants are the most cost-effective treatment overall. While they may cost more upfront, they last much longer than bridges and dentures, saving you time, worry, and money in the long run.
Want to know more about dental implants? Call us or book here for a Free Implant consultation.
For a patient with removable dentures, it is crucial to remove your dentures once a day, preferably at night, and clean them thoroughly by carefully rinsing off any loose food particles.
Cleaning your dentures
Do not use regular toothpaste as it can actually damage the base of the dentures due to the abrasive particles in the toothpaste. There are specific denture cleaning fluids that you can purchase from your local chemist or supermarket. It is also wise to get a specific brush to clean the dentures. Using a brittle toothbrush can actually do more damage than good to the dentures.
When cleaning dentures, it is important to keep the dentures above a towel or soft surface. Dropping the dentures, even just a few inches above a hard surface, can cause them to crack or break. Dentures must stay wet at all times and must not become dry. Thus, it is best to keep the dentures in water when one is not wearing them at night. In some cases, patients can keep their dentures in a cleaning solution overnight but please speak to your dentist to confirm if this is the best alternative for your denture type.
If the dentures are not removable and stick to the patient’s gums, then the dentist will recommend a different cleaning regimen. In many cases, caring for implant dentures will be the same as taking care of regular teeth with brushing twice a day. Patients need to take care of their gums and mouth as well.
Many are anxious about getting a dental implant because of the fear of how painful the procedure is.
Prior to dental implant placements, your dentist will apply a local anaesthetic, so the surgery should not involve any pain since the mouth will be numb.
During surgery, a hole will then be drilled for the implant. Drills might also sound painful, but your jawbone has no nerves to feel any pain, so the pressure should be the most discomfort you could feel.
While the procedure is minimally invasive, you may expect some level of pain once the anaesthesia wears off. Before starting the process, your dentist will give you pain medication so that when the anaesthetic wears off, you have sufficient pain relief.
After the procedure, it is common to feel discomfort or pain at the implant site for up to 10 days. It is often caused by the bruising of the gum around the implant site. The pain can be managed by taking some pain relief; however, it shouldn’t last more than two weeks. Pain that lasts more than two weeks should be a red flag, and consulting your dentist is advisable. Dental implant risks are uncommon, but they may happen just like with any other surgery.
Recovery and healing after dental implant surgery vary from person to person, and everyone has a different pain threshold. Still, getting dental implants is relatively manageable in terms of pain and discomfort during and after surgery. Short-term discomfort is a worthy investment in exchange for long-term oral health.
If you think you might need dental implants, call us or book here for a Free Implant Consultation.
Thinking of getting dental implants? You’re on the right track, as dental implant is the best option for replacing missing teeth. But before you start looking for dental clinics that offer it, you should know that there are two basic methods available for dental implant surgery: traditional and computer-guided. The traditional process is more time consuming and requires multiple incisions. In contrast, computer-guided implant surgery uses state-of-the-art imaging and digital screens to clearly map out your jawbone.
Here at No Gaps Dental, we offer computer-guided implant surgery.
Computer-guided surgery provides dentists with several advantages, helping them achieve predictable and safe implant placements.
- Precise and Accurate Dental Implant Placement
With computer-guided implant surgery, digital impressions and CT scans are used to take images of your jaw to create a 3D image of your jaw structure. This greatly helps in the decision-making on where to place the implant. A surgical guide will then be made based on it, which can be fitted over the dental arch during the implant surgery, allowing the dentist to precisely and accurately install the implant.
- Reduced Risks
Computer-guided implant technology allows our dentists to see the anatomical structures of your teeth, gums, and jaw, thus lowering the risks of unanticipated complications during surgery.
- Reduced Surgery Time
Because a precise surgical guide is made, there will be no guesswork with computer-guided implant surgery, making the procedure faster to complete than traditional implant surgery.
- Faster Healing Time
Unguided surgeries often require more incisions, which means more prolonged recovery time for patients after surgery. With computer-guided implant surgery, many patients can receive same-day implants.
- Better Patient Education
Computer-guided implant technology is based on precise scans of the jaw structure. These images can be used to explain the dental implant procedure and educate patients about their oral health.
- Helps With Placement of Additional Implants
Computer-guided surgery can also be advantageous for those with existing dental implants. It makes it possible to see the exact location of existing implants, ensuring that additional implants are placed in the ideal locations.
If you want to experience the latest technology in implant surgery, please call us or book a Free implant consultation here.
Do you have one or more missing teeth? Dental implants may be a good replacement option for you. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium. They create a permanent base to support a prosthetic tooth or crown.
In the past, patients who suffered from failing teeth, missing teeth, and chronic dental problems were limited to dentures, bridges, and crowns to replace their missing teeth. However, dental implants have changed this because they feel, fit, and function like natural teeth, so they are rapidly becoming the new standard in tooth replacement.
If you would like to know more about dental implants, book an appointment for a Free Implant consultation here
Dental implants is now the most popular tooth replacement option for people who need to replace missing teeth. A dental implant can replace one tooth, but it can also support multiple missing teeth with a bridge and even secure dentures.
But then, which type of dental implant works best for you?
- Single
A single tooth implant is the most typical type. If you have a missing tooth and prefer not to have a dental bridge that requires grinding and crowing your adjacent teeth, then the single tooth implant is your best option. It composes of one implant connected to one crown.
- Multiple
Implant-supported bridge is a great choice if you have three or more missing adjacent teeth. Unlike the typical bridge with two crowns attached to your teeth on either side of the gap with a false tooth in between, an implant-supported bridge has crowns attached to a dental implant instead. The procedure is identical to a single tooth dental implant; however, the missing teeth adjacent to the middle will not be connected to an implant. This type of implant can save you money, given that you can replace multiple adjacent teeth without the need to replace each tooth with its own implant.
- All-On-4
All-On-4 treatment involves the replacement of all missing teeth in one jaw by using only four implants. These four implants are used as anchors to support a full replacement teeth arch. Today, the All-On-4 technique is widely acknowledged as the superior treatment option for a full-arch teeth replacement. It involves placing implants in available bone, thereby avoiding the need for bone grafting.
No matter which implant type you choose to have, it’s still important to consult with an expert. Book now for a Free implant consultation with one of our qualified dentists here!
For many years, dentures have been the standard solution for missing teeth, but as dentistry advances, dental implants have been increasingly popular due to its many benefits over dentures.
- Greater Comfort
Dentures rest on your gums, putting pressure on them, and as a result, you can be left with discomfort and denture sores. With dental implants, your teeth are supported by the titanium post in your jaw, keeping pressure off your gums.
Dental implants also provide a far greater biting force than dentures, allowing you to eat without having to worry about dislodging your teeth in the middle of a meal. Eating a wide variety of different foods improves your general health and nutritional intake.
- Prevents bone loss
When you lose your teeth, the jaw bone in the empty space deteriorates due to lack of stimulation. Well-fitting dentures may delay bone loss, but it doesn’t halt it from occurring. This is why many people who wear dentures notice that their face seems to age more quickly than average or even sag. A dental implant replaces the tooth’s root, and chewing is restored to normal. It provides the needed stimulation for natural bone growth.
- Easy care
One of the greatest complaints about dentures is that they take a lot of effort to maintain. They need to be removed from the mouth for cleaning and soaked overnight while sleeping. On the other hand, dental implants are much easier to maintain as you can brush and floss like normal. With dental implants, you also don’t need denture paste or adhesives.
- Long-lasting
Dentures need to be replaced every 5 to 10 years, whereas dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. Imagine never having to stress about your missing teeth ever again.
Dental implants are also much less likely to break or chip as they are made from titanium, which is stronger than the synthetic plastic resins or porcelain used to construct dentures.
- Cost-effective
You may think, how can something that cost thousands of dollars be cost-effective? The answer lies in the longevity and durability of dental implants compared to dentures. As mentioned above, dental implants may last a lifetime, whereas dentures need to be replaced after some years. You may initially pay more with dental implants, but you’ll actually save more money in the long run.
- Better Stability
Dentures are known for coming loose and slipping out of place. This can create embarrassing situations when eating, speaking, or even just smiling. You can say goodbye to those awkward, uncomfortable situations with dental implants as they are permanently fixed in place. It won’t slip around, come loose, or fall out so you can eat, talk, and smile confidently.
Tired of the conventional dentures that wobble and slip? Dental implants could be the solution you’re looking for! Book an appointment now for a Free Implant consultation by calling us or thru our online booking system.
If your dentures are damaged, visit one of our practices so we can examine them and determine the best way to fix them.
One thing you should keep in mind is that your dentures will need to be adjusted one or several times from when you first receive them. Patients will call our practice worried that they did something to cause their dentures to fit incorrectly, when in actuality, they only need to be adjusted so they can fit perfectly.
If you have indeed damage them, schedule an appointment online here with our practice right away.
Dental Implant is the best option to replace missing teeth. The process can be long and complex, usually done in stages over a few months, but it is worth the wait given its many benefits in comparison to other teeth replacement procedures.
If you are interested in getting a dental implant, the implant process will involve the following steps;
- Treatment plan – The first step is to meet with one of our dentists specialising in this procedure for an initial consultation. Our dentist will then determine if you are a good candidate and if so, a custom treatment plan will be created. You will be provided with information about the process as it differs from patient to patient and will also inform you of what needs to happen before getting the implants.
- Digital planning and CBCT x-ray – After that, Implant digital planning and CBCT x-ray will be done to have a thorough examination of your bone, nerves, and sinuses. It will also decide if there are any underlying issues like gum disease or tooth decay that may cause problems for you during the implant procedure.
If there’s a need to extract a decayed tooth, our dentist might recommend waiting for one to two months before moving on to the implant placement. But depending on the situation, it can be possible to extract a tooth and have an implant installed on the same day.
For patients with a damaged or weak jawbone, a dental bone graft or sinus lift might be needed. These procedures can significantly delay dental implant surgery since healing typically takes three to twelve months for the implant to be securely attached. It may seem like a lot of work, but it is crucial for success rates if done correctly.
- Implant placement – Next is the surgical placement of the implant. Local anaesthesia will be given to numb your mouth, so you won’t feel any pain during the surgery. Our dentist will then drill a hole where the titanium post will be placed using surgical-guided technology. The gums will then be sutured to cover the implant to avoid any food from becoming lodged in the gum.
- Osseointegration – This is followed by the healing process. Each patient heals differently and may take four to six months. At this time, the implant becomes attached to the bone during a process called osseointegration, making it strong enough to stay in place.
- Placing of ‘abutment’ – Our dentist will then examine you to make sure the implant is secure. Once determined that the implant has bonded to your jawbone, a small connector post – called abutment, will be attached to the post portion of the implant. This is the part that connects the replacement tooth to the implant. You will be provided local anaesthesia prior to opening your gums so the abutment can be placed during the process. Once the abutment is placed, the gum tissue will be closed around it but won’t cover it. There are also instances wherein both the implant and the abutment are installed in one session. The recovery period takes approximately two weeks.
- Crown fabrication and placement – Lastly is the crown fabrication. After your gums heal, our dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create a custom crown. We offer CEREC Crowns, wherein you can have a crown constructed and fitted all in one visit. The crown will then be affixed to the abutment.
And there you have it, congratulations on having a new smile! Dental Implants is a procedure our team undertakes on a daily basis, so rest assured you are in safe hands.
If you want to know more about dental implants, please call us or book a Free implant consultation here.
Did you lose one or more teeth? Does it make you feel self-conscious? Does it affect your ability to chew or speak normally?
One can lose teeth for a number of reasons. Other than making you self-conscious, when left untreated, it can also cause your remaining teeth to shift, thus affecting your functionality to bite or even speak properly. The good thing is, there are several options to replace your missing teeth, but what’s the best option?
While you can choose from different treatment options, Dental Implants are by far the superior choice. Dental implants are well recognised as the #1 recommendation for teeth replacement. It fuses with your bone like a root, giving you a natural feel, and with proper care, dental implants can even last a lifetime.
Dental implants are metal fixtures surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath the gums – replacing a natural tooth root. It’ll then serves as a support for your crown, bridge, or denture. To learn more about dental implants, you can check this article.
If you’re tired of concealing your smile and would like to learn more about dental implants, book an appointment now for a Free Implant consultation here.
Dental Implants are well-known as the best way to replace missing teeth. It outlasts any other teeth replacement option as they are much more comfortable, feel like your own teeth, and doesn’t require more maintenance than what you already provide for your own teeth. For more information on the advantages of having a dental implant, you may check this article.
Dental Implants may be the best option, but it can be a costly procedure for others. Some patients may feel that this treatment option is beyond their means. The cost varies depending on several factors, including how many teeth need to be replaced.
Here at No Gaps Dental, Dental Implant ranges from $4,500 for both the implant and crown.
You may want to know how much exactly will it cost. Well, that’s a tough question because, quite simply, there is no ‘one-price-fits-all’ answer. Dental implant cost differs from one person to another depending on the complexness of their individual case, and whether you will require such treatments such as bone grafting or sinus lifting. We can identify your exact needs during the implant planning stage.
You may also check with your health insurer. Though most health insurers don’t typically cover dental implant surgery, some may cover a portion of the implant crown. You may contact your health insurer beforehand to find out more.
Dental implants are worth the money and time if you need to replace your missing teeth. It may be costly upfront, but it will surely save you money, time, and effort in the long run due to its longevity.
If you’re looking for a permanent solution for your missing teeth, dental implants could be the solution for you. Call us or book online for a Free Implant consultation.
Many patients are concerned that they will have missing teeth during the dental implant treatment. That is quite understandable, given that depending on the healing period, it may take several months for the treatment to complete. It may not be much of a concern if the Implant needs to replace your molar or any of your back teeth since it’s not visible when you talk or smile. But it’s a different story when it comes to your front teeth.
The good news is, we can offer an immediate denture for you to wear during the implant healing period. These dentures may not be as strong given the short time you will require them, but it still looks great when you smile.
Dental Implant may be a long and complex procedure, but the end result will surely be worth the wait with all its advantages.
If you have any questions about dental implants, please call us or book a Free implant consultation here.
Cosmetic Treatment
Tired of hiding your smile because of discoloured teeth? We have the perfect solution just for you!
Now’s the time to try Zoom In-Chair Teeth Whitening! It is our premier offering to achieve a dazzling smile that your friends and families will want to find out your secret.
Why Choose Zoom In-Chair Whitening?
- Quick and Effective: Zoom In-Chair Whitening treatment uses 25% hydrogen peroxide gel, activated by a special light, allowing you to achieve up to 8 shades lighter in just one visit.
- Comfortable and Convenient: The treatment consists of three 15-minute sessions, making it a quick and comfortable way to get the bright smile you desire.
- Ideal for Various Stains: Zoom whitening is effective on medium to heavy yellow staining, ensuring impressive results for most patients.
- Minimal Sensitivity: Perfect for those with low to no sensitivity who want maximum whitening results without discomfort.
To find out more, check out https://www.philips.com.au/c-e/pe/teeth-whitening/zoom-in-office
Worried about the cost? For a limited time, we are offering special pricing on our Zoom In-Chair Teeth Whitening:
- Oral Health Therapists: $599
- Dentists: $699
This is a significant reduction from our regular price of $950!
Ready to Dazzle?
Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer! Book your appointment today and take advantage of our special pricing to get the stunning smile you’ve always wanted.
Wondering how celebrities get their teeth so dazzlingly white? Short answer: Veneers.
Veneers are the most common method of achieving the perfect smile and are widely used by Hollywood celebrities.
What are Veneers?
Veneers are thin, strong tooth-coloured shells placed over your natural teeth and have the ability to close up gaps and change the size, shape, and colour of your teeth. They are sought-after by celebrities because of their incredible results. Unlike teeth whitening, veneers are more permanent.
Can anyone get Veneers?
Our dentists will firstly need to assess your teeth and treat any underlying problems before crafting and placing your veneers.
Are Veneers the only way to have a dazzlingly white smile?
Most celebrities get veneers to have a perfect set of teeth, but there are other ways to achieve a picture-perfect smile.
Dental Crowns
Veneers produce superb cosmetic results, but it does not apply to everyone. If your teeth are very worn out or you are prone to grinding, dental crowns may be a better choice. Unlike veneers that only enclose the surface of your tooth, crowns cover the tooth’s entire surface above the gumline.
Whitening Treatments
Many people invest in whitening treatments to improve their teeth’s colour and boost their confidence. If your primary concern is your teeth’s colour, this is an affordable way to get the bright smile you’re after.
Good Oral Hygiene
One of the best ways to achieve the whitest smile of your dreams is first by getting your oral hygiene in check. Start by making sure to brush and floss at least twice a day effectively. In addition to your home-care regimen, you should also visit us twice a year for professional cleaning and check-up.
Are you ready to get the smile you’ve always wanted? Come in for a consultation to see what’s the best treatment for you! Contact us or book your appointment online.
There are a few factors to consider when determining how often you should whiten your teeth, including:
- Type of teeth whitening treatment
When using an at-home whitening kit, you should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations unless your dentist says otherwise. These products have less concentrated bleaching agents, so they are safe to use daily for up to three weeks which is about the time most people reach the desired colour of their teeth.
In-office whitening is recommended once a year, with at-home touch-ups in-between treatments.
- Teeth colour
This refers to how stained or discoloured your teeth are. People with badly stained teeth will need more frequent treatments to get their teeth to the desired shade of white. After getting your desired whiteness, it’s essential to maintain the results. Some people require touch-ups once every few months, while others may need more frequent whitening sessions. People who smoke and enjoy dark-coloured beverages like coffee, tea, and wine, will likely need to whiten their teeth more frequently than others.
Your dental practitioner is the best person to ask which treatment will work best for you. If you are considering this procedure for yourself, we encourage you to schedule a teeth whitening consultation. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have about teeth whitening. We offer both take-home and in-office solutions.
Contact our clinic today or book an appointment online to learn more about what we can do to create the dazzling white smile you’ve always wanted.
Are you considering teeth whitening to help reinvigorate a smile tainted by discolouration? Professional, in-office teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dental procedure in the world today. Unlike home-use systems that incorporate low-dose bleaching agents, in-office whitening takes place under carefully monitored conditions which allow for the safe, controlled, pain-free use of a relatively high concentration of bleaching gel – yielding results that are visible immediately.
At our practices, we offer 3 main types of whitening solutions;
Opalescence Go
Unlike other many methods of whitening, Opalescence Go is perfect if you’re on the go because the trays are clear and discreet. Each box comes with sets of 2 trays: one for your upper teeth and one for your lower teeth. These trays are like flexible mouth guards and contain a whitening gel which breaks down the discolored molecules in your teeth.
Opalescence Take Home whitening
We will provide you with 2 things (1) syringes of whitening gel containing a proper concentration of Carbamide Peroxide for your whitening needs; and (2) a custom made tray with “block out” (reservoirs), since the whitening gel will cause irritation if it comes into contact with your gums.
You’ll take the gels and trays home and wear them according to your dentist’s instruction (minutes per day/days per week). You’ll place the Opalescence gel into your bleaching trays and wear them as directed.
Opalescence Boost, in office chair whitening
Our most powerful tooth whitening system performed under carefully monitored conditions, Opalescence Boost relies on chemistry for achieving its great results, and does not include the use of a special light activator. It’s 38 percent solution of hydrogen peroxide gel contains a unique patented component called PF, a mix of potassium nitrate (reducing the risk of sensitivity) and fluoride (the enamel-strengthener which reduces the risk of cavities).
Children’s Teeth & Gums
Here are some tips to protect your children’s teeth:
- Prior to their first set of teeth coming out, clean gums with a clean, damp cloth.
- When your child’s first teeth appear, start brushing with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste.
- Help your child brush their teeth until the age of 7 or 8. Have your child watch you brush, and follow the same brushing pattern to reduce missed spots.
- Brush twice a day, morning and night.
- Watch your child’s diet. Limit the consumption of sugary treats. Offer fruit rather than juice as the fibre in fruit tends to scrape the teeth clean.
- Make six monthly visits to the dentist to identify any plaque build up.
If you’ve noticed your child has crowding, spacing, or other alignment issues, you’re probably wondering if your child needs braces.
Generally, we would examine your child’s teeth for any alignment issues before the age of 7. This might seem young, but there are several important reasons why we prefer to see your child before they lose all of their baby teeth. When we examine your child before all of their adult teeth have come in, we have a chance to look for any underlying problems. This allows us to start early intervention.
If your child has spacing, crowding, or alignment issues, they may be a great candidate for Clear Aligners, including Invisalign. Clear Aligners are comfortable and removable, making it easier for younger children to brush and floss correctly.
Other
If you are unable to find the information you are looking for on our website, and need to speak to someone, please phone the relevant clinic directly on their phone number below:
LOCATION | PHONE NUMBER |
Artarmon | (02) 8007 6704 |
Beverly Hills | (02) 8007 6700 |
Blacktown | (02) 8007 6340 |
Bondi Junction | (02) 8007 6702 |
Brookvale | (02) 8007 6706 |
Burwood | (02) 8007 6728 |
Cabramatta | (02) 8007 6721 |
Castle Hill | (02) 8007 6725 |
Chatswood | (02) 8007 6701 |
Cherrybrook | (02) 8007 6729 |
Epping | (02) 8007 6720 |
Hornsby | (02) 8007 6703 |
Liverpool | (02) 8007 6707 |
Parramatta | (02) 8007 6726 |
Penrith | (02) 8007 6709 |
Randwick | (02) 8007 6723 |
Sydney CBD – Haymarket | (02) 8007 6708 |
Sydney CBD – Wynyard | (02) 8007 6705 |
Alternatively, you can contact our Customer Support Team via the Request Page, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.