I’m a new patient, what will happen at my first appointment?
Once we have welcomed you and made sure you are comfortable, we will guide you through completing a brief medical history form. Once you have moved into our clinical rooms, our Dentists will conduct a new patient examination. This involves a thorough review of your teeth, gums, chewing muscles, and any lumps or bumps in your mouth.
We will often take x-rays to discover any decay between your teeth, or old leaking fillings that may need replacement. We may also take photos with our camera, which we display to you on the chair-side monitor to let you see exactly what is going on inside your mouth. Your dentist will also give you a thorough explanation of what’s happening with each tooth. At the end of your visit, we give you a treatment plan of findings and pricing so you will know exactly what your treatment costs are – no nasty surprises!
Can I use my Medicare card at the dentist?
No, Medicare does not cover any general or major dental work carried out at any private dental practice. You can claim on your private health fund, if eligible.
However, we do participate in the Dental Child Dental Benefits Scheme which allows eligible children $1013 every two years. We do not charge a gap to patients seen under this scheme.
What is the difference between amalgam and composite fillings?
Amalgam is a metal alloy including silver, small amounts of mercury and other metals. Composite is a plastic resin based material. There are many factors to consider when selecting the filling material. Your dentist can discuss with you the most appropriate material for your individual situation.
My teeth are badly stained, can you help?
Extrinsic (external) stains can be caused by smoking, drinking coffee or tea, or red wine. Depending on the cause, the solution can be as easy as:
- A scale and polish to remove the unsightly marks
- An adjustment and polish of stained filling edges
- Teeth whitening treatment
Intrinsic (internal) stains may be caused by old, leaky, metal amalgam fillings, previously root-treated teeth, and other genetic conditions. You’ll need to consult our Dentists for a solution to your specific intrinsic stain, but common methods of removal include:
- Replacing old metal amalgam fillings with white fillings
- Internal whitening of previously root-treated teeth
- Dental crowns and dental veneers to mask underlying stains
Why do I need fluoride?
Fluoride strengthens the tooth surface and makes teeth less prone to cavities, especially when applied within 2 years following tooth eruption. Fluoride is a major part of modern preventive dentistry.
Why should I use a soft toothbrush?
We brush our teeth to keep the teeth and gums clean and healthy. A soft toothbrush works just as well when compared to hard toothbrushes, and without the danger of scrubbing away the surface of the teeth.
Who is the best dentist?
All of the dentists practising at Viva Family Dental are fully qualified and registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, the Dental Board of Australia and members of the Australian Dental Association. They are able to assist you with your general dental needs. Many have extensive experience in private practice with some having completed post graduate studies in specific areas of interest.
Do I have to pay if I have private health insurance?
Viva Family Dental has relationships with all of the major health funds which allows private health insurance patients with extras or ancillary cover to gain benefits. Some private health insurance companies even offer ‘no-gap’ dental benefits. We recommend that patients check with their health funds as to what benefits they are entitled to.
Does Viva Family Dental offer a payment plan?
We are partnered with Denticare and Afterpay to offer our patients interest free treatment plans. If you are eligible to subscribe you have the options to pay off your treatment on a timeline that fits in with your budget and lifestyle.
