It is recommended to have a general check-up and clean every 6 months to assess if there is any decay or dental issues. Early detection means better prognosis of a tooth. This is particularly important for smokers as there is an early assessment for any oral cancers.
A radiograph (x-ray) or OPG may be taken to assess for any decay that cannot be seen clinically.
Fissure seals are a thin resin like tooth coloured dental material that is used to cover up deep grooves in the teeth. This is only a preventive effort that forms a protective layer to keep food and plaque from entering the grooves. A fissure seal is only effective as long as it is retained on the tooth, it does not replace good oral hygiene.
Fluoride may be used to help remineralise the tooth structure and may help with dental sensitivity.
Good oral hygiene and a healthy diet is the best method for the prevention of tooth decay and periodontal disease (Gum disease).
Periodontal disease is the inflammation and infection of the gums which may spread into the bone that supports the teeth. It occurs when there is a build-up of plaque and bacteria on the teeth. This build-up can harden and turn into calculus/tartar. This can be caused by a number of factors which include: Poor oral hygiene and genetic factors.
If it is not treated it may cause bleeding gum and loose teeth which may be lost in the future. The regular deep cleans are required to prevent your periodontal disease from getting worse and to prevent its recurrence.
A periodontal charting must be conducted to assess and diagnose the level of periodontal disease. This is done through measuring the pockets between the tooth and the gum. This allows the monitoring and management of the periodontal disease. If it has worsened it may need a referral to see a specialist Periodontist. Periodontal charting is done once a year.
Depending on the extent of your periodontal disease it may take additional appointments to clean your teeth. Each appointment may take up to 1 hour. This is longer than the regular clean as this goes deeper into the gums and may require a local anaesthetic.
Fillings may be required to restore decayed teeth. Demineralisation is caused by acid-producing bacteria that attack the tooth surface and over prolong periods of time it may cause a breakdown of the tooth and more bacteria can enter and cause decay. The decay is initially removed and the filling replaces lost tooth structure to maintain the tooth integrity. We often use tooth coloured restorative materials but metallic materials may also be used. This can be discussed with our dentists as the best material to suit your dental needs.
Often dental caries is caused by poor brushing and not cleaning all areas in the mouth. Sometimes fillings may be required if you have an old broken down filling or leaking restoration. White or tooth coloured fillings are most frequently used as they look aesthetic and are a strong material.
The process involves removing decay and replaces the lost tooth structure with the filling material.
To prevent tooth decay it is imperative to:
Dentures are a good alternative to replace multiple missing teeth. It is beneficial as it helps with aesthetic and function (chewing, swallowing and speaking). Full and partial dentures are a removable plate that replaces some or all missing teeth. It may also replace missing supporting structures, such as gums.
There are many different types of dentures;
A patient may have a combination of both. It may take several appointments for fittings so your dentures are comfortable for use.
It is best to discuss with the dentist which denture is most suited to your needs.
Root canal therapy (RCT) is a treatment procedure that we do to try to save the affected tooth. Your tooth may require a root canal therapy when the nerve or root canal system of your tooth becomes infected with bacteria, causing your tooth to exhibit an ache and a dull pain (a toothache).
In the centre of the tooth, there is a root canal system that consists of nerves and blood supply. It can become infected from a big decay, cracked tooth or trauma.
The therapy consists of cleaning out the infected root canal system, it is then shaped and a dressing is placed inside. Once the infection is gone, the empty space is filled with a root filling material. After completion of root canal therapy, you will need to restore that tooth with either a full cusp cap filling or a crown. This is because the tooth is not as strong as it previously was before and prone to breakage.
Cosmetic dentistry involves several dental procedures to improve and enhance the overall appearance of your mouth and smile. This can include the appearance of the teeth, gums and occlusion. Cosmetic dentistry can include the use of dental materials to adjust the look of your smile to one that is most natural and aesthetic. This may also involve the use of ceramic veneers and composite veneers to build up teeth. It can involve restoring a chip on a tooth, alignment of teeth and shape of teeth.
At Leichhardt Dental Surgery we offer a number of different procedures from non-invasive to minimal intervention procedures depending on what your needs are and what is most suitable for you in terms of aesthetics.
Crowns and bridges may be an option to replace certain missing teeth or placed when a tooth has previously had extensive dental treatment. Crowns completely cover the tooth and there are many types of crowns materials that can be used such as ceramic, gold, metal or in combination.
There are different types of procedures that include:
Teeth whitening is used to treat mild to moderate surface stains. It can help you achieve a brighter and whiter smile. Teeth whitening is only suitable for some stains and it is best to have a consultation to see which method is best suited for you.
Some stains cannot be removed by teeth whitening, but there are alternative methods to improve your smile. If you are concerned about the discolouration of your teeth please make a consultation appointment.
Here at Leichhardt Dental Surgery we offer various whitening methods.
It is a 2-hour treatment that gives you instant results. Included is also an individualised take-home kit to complete and maintain your results.
Individualised trays are made for your upper and lower teeth to take home. This is used to contain the gel-like substance and then applied to your teeth. This is worn for a set amount of time over a maximum period of 2 weeks, or until desired results are achieved.
If you have undergone root canal therapy and your tooth has turned a dark colour, then internal whitening may be an option for you. This is only after completion of your treatment and is depended on your tooth integrity. Please discuss further with our dentists as this may not be a suitable option.
A polish may be required to remove superficial stains.
Please Note
Bleaching does not whiten:
Orthodontics is the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of misalignment of teeth or malocclusion. Through aligning teeth with gentle forces with braces to achieve the most aesthetic smile possible for you.
Treatment can include the use of:
There are no age limits to orthodontic treatment, it should be noted that some patients may need early intervention and require the use of plates/removable appliances prior. This should be discussed with your dentist. Please make a consultation appointment if you wish to discuss this matter with Dr Susan.
Each individual’s teeth are different and the time taken to achieve your best smile is dependent on you and your compliance.
Occasionally extractions are the best treatments option. We aim to achieve the best outcome and provide you with the most satisfactory appearance and function of your mouth. Careful consideration and discussion about other treatments option with the dentist should be done before opting for an extraction. Local anaesthesia will be provided and we also have happy gas for the anxious patient.
A radiograph (x-ray) may be required to assess the tooth prognosis and assess the roots.
Reasons for extraction may include:
If you are suffering from snoring and wake up feeling tired and lethargic it may be because you are not getting enough oxygen while sleeping. If you have sleep apnoea, at some point during your sleep the airway in your throat that leads from the nose and mouth to the lungs collapses as the muscle relax. If the collapse is severe it causes an apnoea (loss of breath).
There are long-term health consequences with untreated sleep apnoea such as high blood pressure and increased risk of heart attack, stroke and sleepiness during the day.
Sleep apnoea treatment can include using a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device or an oral appliance (Mandibular advancement splint or device). It is similar to a customised hard mouth guard that covers both your upper and lower tops of your teeth. This enables the jaw to be pushed forward to open up the airways. It must be noted it is best to have a sleeping test performed and a discussion with your dentist as these methods may not work for you.
For more information please visit the Sleep Health Foundation
www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au
We do make custom night guard and sports guards of various thicknesses.
Custom made night guards may be recommended if there is significant tooth wear from grinding and clenching.
It is important to build good healthy habits from a young age, especially good oral care habits such as brushing 2 times a day, flossing and rising out sugary substances. Regular checkups, cleans, fluoride treatments and fissure seals help protect these baby teeth from decay and cavities.
Baby teeth/milk teeth are not as strong as the adult/permanent teeth and decay can spread faster.
Mums and dads also play a pivotal role in the maintenance and care of their young children’s teeth. Early detection of small holes/decay can make a world of difference in the child’s oral and emotional development. Checking your child’s facial and jaw development is also imperative to assess the further need of possible preventive or future orthodontic appliances that may be required.
Dental implants should be done after careful consideration. A dental implant is medical grade titanium implanted tooth that is embedded into the jaw bone. It is a surgical procedure that allows you to have a fixed prosthetic tooth. These look and feels exactly like a real tooth and can last for many years with the proper maintenance. This tooth stays in your mouth and does not need removal like a denture. Dental implants are a great method to replace a lost tooth, given the right conditions. Having a dental implant is beneficial as it closely mimics a real tooth and does not need to affect the adjacent teeth.
However, dental implants may not be the only option available to you. Please discuss further with our dentist.
The information provided is general in nature and not intended to provide specific advice, please feel free to contact Leichhardt Dental Surgery for an appointment for a more in-depth discussion of your treatments most suitable for you. Our dentist who will go through the pros, cons, risk and cost that may be involved. A thorough treatment plan will be created for you.
At your dental appointment please ensure you bring your personal identification, your Medicare card and also your private health insurance card (if applicable). You will be required to fill in a new patient acquaintance form that will detail your most recent medical history. Please also inform us of any allergies and illness. We will try our best to accommodate your needs.
Yes, we are a preferred provider for Medibank Private and Bupa.
However, if you are not with Medibank Private or Bupa, we do accept all private health insurance companies. Please be sure to bring your private health insurance card to every appointment.
Currently, we only accept Medicare on selected children that are eligible for The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CBDS). Children are aged between 2- 17 years old and get a total benefit of $1000 per every 2 calendar year.
Services can include:
Orthodontic and cosmetic dental works are not covered by the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
To find out if you are eligible please contact us or contact the Departments of Human Services (https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/services/medicare/child-dental-benefits-schedule).
Yes, we do. Please inform the Receptionist when arriving and present your DVA card.
Yes, we do claims on the spot using HICAPS. However, you may be required to pay a gap on the day, depending on your treatment needs and level of your private health insurance coverage. Please be sure to bring your current private health insurance card.
