All the things you need to know about DENTISTRY FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why do regular dental visits matter?
Many people do not see a dentist on a regular basis. They only go when they have a problem. This is known as “crisis treatment” versus “preventive treatment.” While these patients may feel they are saving money, it often ends up costing much more in dollars and time. This is because many dental problems do not have symptoms until they reach the advanced stages of the disease process. An example is tooth decay. It is typical to hear, “Nothing hurts… I don’t have any problems.”
Tooth decay often does not hurt until it gets close to the nerve of the tooth. It is not uncommon to see a patient with a huge cavity who has never felt a thing. The dentist can usually detect a cavity 3-4 years before it develops any symptoms. This early detection can help you prevent root canal treatment.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
How often do I have to go to the dentist?
There is no one-size-fits-all dental treatment. Some people need to visit the dentist once or twice a year; others may need more visits. You are a unique individual, with a unique smile and unique needs when it comes to keeping your smile healthy.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
What are some signs I should see a dentist?
- Your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold
- Your gums are puffy and/or they bleed when you brush or floss
- You have fillings, crowns, dental implants, dentures, etc.
- You don’t like the way your smile or teeth look
- You have persistent bad breath or bad taste in your mouth
- You are pregnant
- You have pain or swelling in your mouth, face or neck
- You have difficulty chewing or swallowing
- You have a family history of gum disease or tooth decay
- You have a medical condition such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, eating disorders or are HIV positive
- Your mouth is often dry
- You smoke or use other tobacco products
- You are undergoing medical treatment such as radiation, chemotherapy or hormone replacement therapy
- Your jaw sometimes pops or is painful when opening and closing, chewing or when you first wake up; you have an uneven bite
- You have a spot or sore that doesn’t look or feel right in your mouth and it isn’t going away
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
I'm not having any symptoms. Do I still need to see a dentist?
Yes. Even if you don’t have any symptoms, you can still have dental health problems that only a dentist can diagnose. Regular dental visits will also help prevent problems from developing. Continuity of care is an important part of any health plan and dental health is no exception. Keeping your mouth healthy is an essential piece of your overall health. It’s also important to keep your dentist informed of any changes in your overall health since many medical conditions can affect your dental health too.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
How often should I get my teeth cleaned by a dentist?
A schedule for teeth cleaning and dental health maintenance should be established after a complete dental examination, including radiographs. Most people should have their teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist or dental hygienist every 6 months. However, some people may need more frequent visits to keep their teeth and gums healthy.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
Why does the dentist take X-rays?
Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when the dentist examines the mouth. An X-ray examination may reveal:
- small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings)
- infections in the bone
- periodontal (gum) disease
- abscesses or cysts
- developmental abnormalities
- some types of tumors
Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money and often unnecessary discomfort. X-rays can detect damage to oral structures not visible during a regular exam. If you have a hidden tumor, X-rays may even help save your life. Dentist will evaluate your need for X-rays based on the conditions present in development. There are many benefits to having X-rays taken. Any additional questions or concerns should be discussed with your dentist.
How often do I need dental x-rays?
Dental check-up radiographs or bitewing x-rays are taken approximately once a year. Every patient is unique so the dentist will establish the frequency of radiographs based on the specific needs of the individual patient.
Dental radiographs allow the dentist to see what is happening inside the teeth and under the gum tissues. The x-rays allow us to examine for cavities, periodontal disease, bone loss, infections, tooth formation and growth as well as normal tooth eruption patterns.
Dental x-rays are very safe. The amount of radiation that a dental x-ray produces is about the same as you would receive from a cross country airplane ride. Radiation is measured in millirems and one dental x-ray has only .5 millirems.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
When should I bring my kids to the dentist?
It is recommended that children have a dental exam approximately six months after the eruption of their first tooth.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
Is bad breath caused by other oral health issues?
Bad breath—also known as halitosis—can be caused by oral health issues, systemic medical problems, and/or a combination of both. It is estimated that 80% of halitosis is caused by oral diseases such as bacteria from cavities and bacteria found in the deepened sulcus of the gingival tissue, dorsum of the tongue, and saliva. Certain bacteria in the oral cavity that are responsible for a breakdown of products that contain volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) are most known as the causal agents for halitosis. The VSCs most associated with halitosis are methyl mercaptan, hydrogen sulfide, and dimethyl sulfide.
Additional oral causes of halitosis (usually the causal agent of bad breath 20% of the time) can be from issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), sinusitis, metabolic disorders, respiratory disorders, and immunologic disorders.
What should I do if I have bad breath?
Bad breath is also known as halitosis. Some people have more severe cases of it than others. Some only experience it in the morning, some all day. The major cause of halitosis is microbial deposits found on the tongue. We suggest brushing your tongue with your toothbrush everytime you brush and rinse with anti-bacterial mouthwash.
Morning – Saliva cleanses the mouth of bacteria and at night your saliva glands all but shut down. Because of this, more bacteria sits in your mouth throughout the night causing bad breath when you wake in the a.m.
Food – If you enjoy eating onions, garlic and other food that has a strong odore this may be the culprit to your bad breath. These odors stay in your body for an extended amount of time and are exhaled causing bad breath.
Poor oral hygiene habits – If you are not brushing and flossing properly, the food particles that remain in your mouth can cause bacteria to grow, which in turn causes bad breath.
Periodontal disease – Bacteria and food stuck under gums causing inflammation. Again, if not removed properly on a daily basis or at regular dental hygiene appointments, this will cause bad breath and other dental problems
Dry mouth – If you are on certain medications, mainly breathe out of your mouth or happen to have issues with producing enough saliva this may cause bad breath.
Dehydration or Hunger – Drinking water and chewing food increases saliva flow and washes bacteria away. If you are not drinking enough or eating enough this too could be the cause.
Tobacco products – Tobacco use surpresses the saliva glands in the mouth.
Medical conditions and illnesses – Various health issues including diabetes, liver and kidney problems and chronic sinus infections may contribute to bad breath.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
What can I do to prevent bad breath?
- Good oral hygiene – Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove food and plaque. Brush or use a tongue scraper to clean bacteria from the tongue.
- Visit us regularly – Get a check-up and cleaning at least twice a year. For those with periodontal disease, we recommend more frequent visits.
- Stop using tobacco – If you are unable to stop on your own, ask us what we recommend to help break the habit at your next visit.
- Drink water frequently – Water will help keep your mouth moist and wash away bacteria and food particles.
- Use mouthwash/rinses – Us an over the counter rinse, and if that does not work well enough for you ask us about antiseptic rinses that not only alleviate bad breath, but also kill the germs that cause the problem.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
How often should I brush and floss my teeth?
Toothbrushing – Brush your teeth at least twice a day with and electric or traditional toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Young children should use a fluoride-free toothpaste until they have developed the ability to spit and not swallow toothpaste.
Flossing – Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Our Hygienist recommends flossing before brushing. If you prefer to floss after brushing make sure and rinse the food particles out of your mouth once done.
Rinsing – It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing, and also after meals as it helps clear your mouth of any food particles that may have been dislodged during brushing and flossing.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
Is mouthwash always good for you?
FALSE! Regular brushing & flossing is usually all that is needed for healthy teeth and gums.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
Why are my gums bleeding?
1. Oral Cancer Detection – this is a serious issue that effects many people.
2. Plaque, tartar and cavities – plaque and tartar build-up is inevitable, regardless of how well you brush your teeth and small cavities that you are unaware of can become big issues if left untreated.
3. Find problems that are under the surface with X-rays.
4. Get your gums checked for gum infection and gingivitis.
5. Have a smile you’re proud of! Get rid of stains and yellow teeth by getting your teeth cleaned.
6. Find out what you are doing that is working and what is not. The dentist can tell you by examining your teeth whether your hygiene habits need to be changed.
7. Cost! If you go to the dentist once a year for a check-up and clean you’re far less likely to need expensive, time consuming and possibly painful dental care.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
Why are my gums bleeding?
Gums bleed when they are irritated and inflamed which is not considered normal. This is due to plaque (a soft film of bacteria) being left on the teeth which causes inflammation called gingivitis and if not addressed can develop into gum disease. Over time, if not cleaned off through daily brushing and interdental cleaning, the plaque can turn into a hard deposit called tartar or calculus which will require professional scaling by your dentist or hygienist to remove it.
It is important even if your gums bleed they are still brushed to keep the mouth clean otherwise the bacteria build up in the mouth will make gum inflammation worse. After a few days of thorough cleaning, your gums should stop bleeding. If this does not happen you will need to ask the advice of your dental team as you may need professional cleaning.
A good oral care regime should be able to prevent your gums from bleeding if done correctly. We would always suggest that you have regular examinations at your dentist. This can help diagnose and treat anything unusual in your mouth so you get the correct care and advice.
You may have to use a softer brush whilst the gums are inflamed until they become healthier. It is also important to clean in between teeth daily using interdental brushes or floss.
Smoking can cover up a gum problem as it restricts the blood flow to the mouth. If you have recently given up smoking this could allow the gums to get a better circulation and therefore start to bleed.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
What should I do about bleeding gums?
People often respond to bleeding gums with the wrong method of treatment. Usually, gums that bleed are a symptom of the onset of periodontal disease or gingivitis. But often, people stop brushing as frequently and effectively because it may be painful or it may cause the gums to bleed again. However, when gums are inflamed, brushing could help reduce the inflammation. More importantly, you should see your dentist to have a periodontal screening and recording performed in order to determine the level of disease present and the best treatment course to pursue.
It is also worth noting that chronic dental pain and discomfort are obvious signs of a problem. Over-the-counter drugs may provide some temporary relief. These medications usually only mask the existence of a problem and should be taken on a temporary basis.
It is important to see your dentist as soon as possible if your gums begin to bleed.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting bone structure, which if left untreated, can cause permanent jaw bone destruction and possible tooth loss. Untreated periodontal disease has been linked to increased risk for conditions such as heart disease, stroke, low birth weight babies, pre-term delivery, respiratory disease, and prostate cancer. An advanced stage of periodontal disease exhibits inflamed gums pulling away from your bone and teeth. Other signs of periodontal disease include:
- Bad breath
- Red or swollen gums
- Loose teeth or teeth that have moved
- Sensitive teeth
- Pus coming from around the teeth
- Pain when chewing
- Tender gums
- Bleeding gums
Treatment of early periodontal disease can be performed in-office. However, advanced stages may require surgery. Periodontal disease can be prevented and treated successfully by seeing your dentist and dental hygienist regularly and following recommended care plans.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
I have sensitive teeth. What can I do?
You can try using a toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth. Rub a little toothpaste into the sensitive area when going to bed as it helps protect the surface.
Try to avoid strongly acidic foods and drinks and wait at least an hour after eating before brushing as this could cause even more sensitivity. Grinding your teeth can also increase sensitivity and a mouth guard maybe necessary.
If the pain continues, speak to your dental team and they may be able to offer further care to reduce your symptoms. A number of things can cause sensitivity and your dental team will be able to identify these and advise the correct care.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
How long will my dental restoration last?
A common misconception is that dental restorations last forever but unfortunately this is rarely true. With time dental restorations may break down or become loose, allowing decay to enter the area around the restoration and become problematic. Although you can’t expect your fillings, bridges, and crowns to last forever, you can do your part to make them last as long as possible. Maintain great oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly to keep those restorations in great condition for as long as possible.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
How much will the treatment cost?
Fees vary for each treatment and for each patient. It is almost impossible to let you know roughly especially over the phone as to how much procedures cost without actually seeing your teeth. With any procedure the best thing to do is come in and see either Dr Castro for a consultation. At this appointment you will find out all of your treatment options, have any questions answered and gain an estimated quote and treatment plan.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
Will my private health insurance cover the cost of treatment?
Depending on your level of dental (extras) coverage will determine what and how much treatment is covered. Most treatment is claimable through your insurance but rebates do vary. At your consultation appointment – which you are able to claim as long as you have a minimum of basic extras cover – you will receive a treatment plan and quote that will contain item numbers you can take back to your private health insurance. They will let you know what and how much you are covered for.
Feeling insecure with your smile? Looking for the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Melbourne for your Smile Transformation Treatment? VOGUE SMILES MELBOURNE Dentist have the passion, expertise and dedication to provide exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry treatment. Call 9629-7664 to book for your FREE mini cosmetic consult.
" The Dentist Cost is so high"
We understand a beautiful smile and great oral health is a significant investment. Naturally, you want to be sure you are getting a good value. One thing to ask yourself, are you concerned that the fee is too high for the recommended treatment or is the amount of the fee difficult for you right now? Perhaps the best way we can help you in your decision is to review the benefits of having the treatment and the risk of not having it. By going ahead with the recommended treatment, you will prevent potentially a small problem getting worst which consequently needing extensive and expensive treatment at later future times. And in terms of appearance, the treatment will put you on your way to smile anyone would be proud of.
