Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Different health funds payout different fee's due to the type of cover you have and how well your health fund covers any one item number.

A few health funds allow us to use the 'quotation' function on our HICAPS terminal to give you the exact amount your health fund will cover for the treatment recommended.

For any health funds that don't support the quotation function, we offer you an itemised dental treatment plan so you can contact your health fund directly and find out how much will be covered.

Our HICAPS terminal also allows us to swipe your card and claim on the spot at the time of your appointment so you will only need to pay the 'gap fee'.

If you have any further questions regarding dental treatment costs, don't hesitate to contact us. 

Please note, we are not a preferred provider for any private health insurers.

A consultation appointment with one of our dentists here at Dimos Dental allows both the dentist and yourself to discuss your existing issues and concerns as well as inform you of all potential treatment options.

This is something that varies due to what you would like done versus what the possibilities are to achieve this.

This appointment is for us to have a clear understanding of your next steps, enabling reception to book adequate time needed for your appointments or to speak to any necessary specialists, if required.

As we cannot quote treatment costs over the phone, this is also an ideal time to get a full treatment plan with items and costing.

Orthodontic treatment, including braces, may be partially covered by dental insurance plans. However, coverage varies depending on the insurance provider and the specific terms of the policy. It's recommended to consult with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options for orthodontic treatment.

Although most popular amongst children and teenagers, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to this age bracket. 

Between 7 and 9 years old is the ideal time to have the teeth and jaw assessed for potential structural issues, however orthodontic problems can technically be rectified at any stage of life. 

Advancements in modern technology are resulting in a fast rise in adult patients choosing to correct their smile!

Braces primarily focus on aligning the teeth rather than changing the face shape. However, correcting severe misalignment or bite issues may lead to subtle changes in facial appearance, such as improved jawline symmetry. Discuss any concerns with your dentist or orthodontist during treatment planning.

Brushing after every meal, or 3 times per day, is highly recommended when going through braces or clear aligner treatment. 

Use a fluoridated toothpaste and even tooth mousse to aid in strengthening the teeth. 

Try to clean between the teeth as best you can, either with orthodontic floss or interdental brushes.

Avoid sugary/sticky foods as much as possible.

Keep on top of your routine dental check up and cleans.

To clean orthodontic retainers, brush them using a soft-bristled toothbrush and use specialised oral appliance cleaning tablets when required. Avoid using toothpaste as this can be too abrasive, and hot water as it can distort the shape of the retainer. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance are crucial for keeping your orthodontic retainers clean and hygienic.

The duration of orthodontic treatment with braces varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the patient's age, and their individual response to treatment. On average, traditional braces are worn for approximately 18 to 24 months, but some cases may require shorter or longer treatment times.

Braces may cause discomfort, especially after placement or adjustments, lasting a few hours to a couple of days as teeth adjust to pressure. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help. Follow your dentist's advice for managing pain, and contact them if severe or prolonged discomfort occurs.

The time a patient spends going through orthodontic treatment varies from person to person, as there are so many variables that can alter the speed of the process.

Treatment can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, give or take a few months. The standard time is 18 months.

It is best to avoid sticky or chewy foods such as caramel, chewing gum, and lollies as they can get stuck in the braces and be difficult to remove and/or cause problems such as decay. Eating hard foods like nuts and ice should also be avoided also, as they can bend or break orthodontic wires and brackets.

Yes, CEREC ceramic restorations are highly durable and designed to match the natural colour of your teeth, blending seamlessly with your smile for years to come.

Caring for CEREC restorations is similar to natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are recommended to maintain oral health and the longevity of the restoration.

A CEREC ceramic restoration typically takes about two hours to complete in a single visit, eliminating the need for multiple appointments and temporary restorations.    

The CEREC restoration process is minimally invasive and typically requires less tooth preparation than traditional methods, making it a more comfortable experience for patients.

CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) ceramic restorations are a state-of-the-art dental procedure that provides patients with high-quality, durable ceramic crowns, veneers, or onlays in a single visit. This technology uses computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) for precise restorations.

CEREC restorations are created and placed during a single visit using advanced digital technology, offering a quicker, more comfortable process with restorations that closely mimic natural tooth appearance. 

Yes, various materials are used, including porcelain, ceramic, composite resin, and metal alloys. The choice depends on aesthetic considerations, strength requirements, and the tooth's location.

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth, improving their colour, shape, size, or length. They are perfect for correcting stains, chips, gaps, or misshapen teeth and can offer a dramatic smile makeover.    

Your crown should be treated as if it was a natural tooth. This means brushing and flossing daily to limit the buildup of plaque and bacteria. 

Take care when chewing hard/sticky foods, although your new crown is strong and durable, it is not bulletproof. 

The choice depends on the individual's specific dental needs, aesthetic goals, and dentist's recommendations. Crowns are used to restore strength, veneers for aesthetics, and bridges to replace missing teeth.

With proper care, dental crowns and bridges can last 5-15 years or more, while veneers can last between 7 and 15 years. Longevity depends on oral hygiene practices and personal habits.

Dental veneers can last anywhere from 7 to 15 years, or potentially even longer with excellent dental care. 

Regular brushing and interdental cleaning alongside frequent check ups will ensure your veneers are well looked after and stand the test of time. 

Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They consist of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth or teeth in between. Bridges are supported by natural teeth or implants.

Dental crowns are custom-fitted caps placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. They are ideal for individuals with broken teeth, extensive decay, or after root canal therapy.

A dental crown or 'cap' covers your entire tooth's surface to provide strength or aesthetic restoration to a tooth or multiple teeth.

At Dimos Dental & Facial Aesthetics, we may recommend dental crowns to:

• Support a tooth with a cavity too large for a filling
• Cover a dental implant
• Improve your smile
• Enhance yellow, stained, or small sized teeth
• Support a dental bridge
• Restore a worn-down tooth
• Reinforce a chipped or cracked tooth

Yes, you should continue regular dental cleanings and check-ups during your Invisalign treatment. Remove the aligners before cleaning your teeth.

Yes, Invisalign can correct an overbite in many cases, depending on the severity and complexity of the bite issue. A consultation with an orthodontist is necessary to evaluate your specific situation.

You can drink water with Invisalign in, but it's advised to remove them when drinking beverages that are hot, coloured, or sugary to prevent staining and damage to the aligners.

No, you should remove your Invisalign aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water to avoid damaging them and to maintain oral hygiene.

Some people may experience temporary discomfort or pressure for a few days at the beginning of each new stage of treatment when a new aligner is first worn, but this is typically mild and temporary.

Clean Invisalign aligners daily with a soft toothbrush and water, using gentle brushing motions. Avoid using hot water or abrasive cleaners. Invisalign cleaning crystals can also be used for a deeper clean.

Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners that gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next set.

The treatment time for Invisalign varies by individual but usually ranges from 6 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the tooth movement required.

The cost of Invisalign treatment varies based on the complexity of the dental issues being addressed and the duration of the treatment. Typically, the cost range in Australia is from AUD 6,000 to AUD 9,000. However, for minor treatments or adjustments, the cost can be lower, starting from around AUD 4,500. Consult with us for a precise quote.

Invisalign offers aesthetic and comfort advantages over traditional braces for many patients, but the best option depends on the specific dental issues being corrected. Consultation with an orthodontist can determine the most effective treatment.

Many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign treatment similarly to conventional braces. Coverage varies, so it's important to check with your insurance provider.

Invisalign and braces are effective for different types of orthodontic corrections. Invisalign is often preferred for its aesthetics and comfort, but braces might be recommended for more complex adjustments.

Dental implants are a very common and effective way to restore missing teeth. The beauty of implants is that almost anyone is a candidate.

This however depends on a multitude of factors including;

- Good overall health 

- Smoking status

- Bone levels 

- Oral hygiene practices

Please consult with one of our dentists here at Dimos Dental to determine if you are eligible for dental implant placement.

Yes, dental implants have a high success rate and are considered a safe and effective treatment for tooth replacement when performed by a qualified dental professional.

Most people are candidates for dental implants, but patients need healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. Those with certain health conditions may require additional evaluation.

Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants provide a permanent solution that doesn't slip or affect adjacent healthy teeth, offering improved comfort, function, and appearance.

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective and long-term solution for tooth loss.

Considering that they are a permanent fixture in the mouth, dental implants generally speaking are designed to last a lifetime as they fuse to the jaw bone. Implant crowns (the head of the implant, not the screw) may require replacement down the line. 

However, it is possible for the implant screw to fail in the months or years after it is placed, and there are several factors which may contribute to this such as;

- Insufficient care/maintenance

- Insufficient bone

- Smoking

- Teeth grinding

- Certain medical conditions

- Age

- Medications/medical treatments

Dental implants are titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth roots, topped with a crown or bridge. They are ideal for individuals with one or more missing teeth seeking a durable, long-term solution. 

The dental implant process involves several steps, including initial consultation, implant placement surgery, healing period, and the attachment of the crown or bridge. The entire process can take several months to complete.

Facial aesthetic treatments are generally safe when performed by qualified professionals. However, discussing any potential risks or side effects with your provider is important.

Yes, certain facial aesthetic treatments, such as chemical peels and laser therapy, can significantly improve the appearance of acne scars by promoting new skin growth and improving skin texture.

The best way to choose is by consulting with a qualified facial aesthetics professional who can assess your skin type, discuss your aesthetic goals, and recommend the most suitable treatments.

It's recommended that children see a dentist for the first time around the age of 2 years old and visit every six months for regular exams and cleaning. The more frequently children visit the dentist, the more closely they can be monitored for any dental/growth related problems that can arise as they mature.

Absolutely! 

Not only are dental appointments safe during pregnancy, they are encouraged.

Staying on top of your check up and cleans will ensure both you and your baby are kept healthy.

Your dental clinician will monitor for any hormonal changes that may present orally and teach you how best to manage them.

Fissure sealants work to protect the natural grooves of the teeth from decay.

This is achieved through an application of tooth-coloured resin which forms a sturdy barrier between enamel and harmful bacteria. 

Patients with poor oral hygiene or those who consume high levels of sugar are great candidates for this treatment.

Having one dentist for the whole family offers convenience by saving time and hassle, and builds trust as children become comfortable with consistent care. Family dentistry also provides a comprehensive dental history for better preventive care and early issue detection, ensures personalised care tailored to your family's unique needs, and eases anxiety for younger children through the supportive presence of siblings and parents.

Your child's first dental visit is a significant milestone that can influence their future dental health. Introducing them to the dental environment early can reduce fears and encourage regular visits as they grow. These initial visits focus on creating a positive experience. Here's what you can generally expect:

• A gentle introduction: The dental team will greet your child warmly, showing them instruments and explaining procedures in a playful, non-threatening manner.
• A "ride" in the chair: Your child may get to sit in the dental chair and experience it in a fun way.
• Exam (if ready): The dental clinician will gently count your child's teeth, check for any issues, and examine gum and jaw development.
• Cleaning (if ready): If your child is comfortable, a simple polish may be performed.
• Education and fun: The clinician might discuss topics such as teething, brushing, diet, and habits like thumb-sucking. Your child might receive stickers or small rewards for their cooperation.

Babies tend to get their first tooth around 6 months of age and will continuously grow more baby teeth up until approximately 2 years of age.

Don't be disheartened if your child experiences delayed or accelerated eruption, as eruption patterns can differ by up to 6 months. 

It is recommended that children should see a dentist for the first time around the age of 2 years old. 

Although it is rare for dental problems to occur at such a young age, seeing babies or toddlers this early helps us to detect any growth acceleration/delay or to recognise habits which may affect the child's dentition or development down the line. 

It is also a good idea to get children familiar with the dental environment, ensuring it's a positive and consistent experience for them. This ensures they get the best start in life with their oral hygiene, hopefully preventing them for needing any major dental work throughout their lives.

Yes, smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease. It compromises your immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infection. Smoking also masks the signs of gum disease, leading to delayed treatment.

Excellent oral hygiene is your best defence. This includes:

• Thorough brushing: Brush twice daily for a minimum of two minutes each time, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Cleaning between teeth daily: Use floss between teeth to remove plaque your toothbrush can't reach. If floss isn’t for you, give interdental brushes or a waterflosser a try.
• Regular dental checkups and cleanings: Your hygienist can remove hardened plaque (tartar) which irritate the gums in order to reduce risk of gum disease developing/progressing.

Treatment time depends on the severity. Mild gingivitis may only need improved oral hygiene and a single professional cleaning session. More advanced cases might require multiple appointments over several weeks or months for deep cleanings, antibiotic therapy, or even surgery. If your condition cannot be managed in-house, a referral to a periodontist (gum specialist) may be encouraged.

Discomfort levels vary depending on the severity of your gum disease and the treatment needed. Scaling and deep cleaning might cause some sensitivity. Your hygienist can use local anaesthesia to numb the area. We will discuss pain management options to keep you comfortable.

Mouthwash is not considered essential in order to keep your teeth clean. Adequate brushing and regular flossing is usually more than enough. 

However, depending on your circumstances, certain rinses may be prescribed by your dental professional. Such rinses tend to aid in gum problems such as gingivitis or gum disease, however they should only be used short term due to side effects such as staining.  

Popular supermarket mouthwashes such as Listerine or Colgate provide minimal benefits but do help to provide that minty fresh feeling. If you are going to use such products, ensure they are alcohol free- this will limit the chances of dry mouth and reduce your risk of oral cancer.

Untreated gum disease can have serious consequences:

• Tooth loss: Infection destroys the bone supporting your teeth.
• Increased risk of systemic diseases: Gum disease is linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes complications, and more.
• Impact on overall health and well-being: Chronic inflammation and potential tooth loss can negatively affect your self-confidence and quality of life.

Our general recommendation would be to use a soft bristled brush with a small head, and ideally the brush should be electric for a more effective clean. Your electric toothbrush works best when the head is round with oscillation/rotation/vibration all in one.

Bleeding gums signifies inflammation which is commonly caused by harmful bacteria in the mouth. 

Gingivitis refers to superficial inflammation of the gums. This condition is reversible. 

Periodontal disease refers to deep inflammation of the gums. This condition is not reversible but can be slowed or stopped. 

If you notice that your gums bleed spontaneously or regularly, our Oral Health Therapists can efficiently diagnose your problem and provide tailored treatment and advice for you, just give us a call to book in. 

X-rays show us your teeth and jaw bone from the inside out, and as a result help us to ensure that problems which cannot be seen clinically aren't going undiagnosed. Without x-rays, problems such as decay, bone-loss and infections can go undetected.

The type of x-ray we take will depend on the condition for which you are being assessed. With this being said, we encourage routine diagnostic x-rays every 2-3 years as per the Australian Dental Guidelines to ensure a comprehensive dental assessment. 

Although dental x-rays involve radiation, it is at a very low and safe level which is proven time and time again through extensive research. In fact, you are exposed to higher levels of radiation in day-to-day life than you are from your dental x-rays.

It is recommended that adults with healthy teeth and gums get their teeth cleaned every six months. However, your dentist or hygienist may recommend more frequent cleanings if you have certain risk factors like gum disease, a tendency to build up tartar quickly, or underlying health conditions.

While both methods are beneficial, flossing before brushing is generally recommended. Flossing dislodges food particles and plaque between your teeth, allowing your fluoride toothpaste to better reach those areas during brushing for deeper cleaning and protection.

Fissure sealants are thin resin coatings applied to the deep grooves of back teeth. They act as a barrier, protecting cavity-prone areas from food particles and bacteria. Sealants are most commonly recommended for children, but adults with deep grooves in their molars might also benefit.

Dental anxiety is very common. Here are some tips for management:

• Communicate openly: Talk to your dentist about your fears. They can explain procedures in detail and work with you to find ways to make you feel more comfortable.
• Relaxation techniques: Try deep breathing or guided meditation before and during your appointment.
• Distractions: Listen to music or a podcast during treatment. 
• Ask about sedation options: Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or anti-anxiety medication might be helpful for some patients.

Dental X-rays are crucial in allowing your dental clinicians to see what's happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. Without this tool, problems can go undetected. X-rays can help identify:

• Cavities between teeth or under fillings
• Early signs of bone loss due to gum disease
• Abscesses or infections
• Impacted teeth, cysts, or other abnormalities

Fluoride is not a medication, but rather a naturally occurring mineral most commonly found in air, soil, rock, plants and water; it is considered the most important mineral in the prevention and treatment of tooth decay. 

Tooth decay occurs when acid produced by harmful bacteria attacks the surface of the tooth.

A constant low-level supply of fluoride is best to inhibit this. Fluoride in your drinking water and toothpaste acts like a constant 'repair kit' for your teeth.

Brushing twice daily (morning and night) and flossing once daily (preferably at night) is the gold standard for at-home oral health care.

Brushing with either a manual or electric toothbrush works to clear the bulk of soft plaque (bacteria) from the tooth surface. 

The purpose of flossing is to remove plaque from the hard to reach surfaces of teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach such as below the gum-line and in-between teeth. 

The longer that plaque sits in the mouth, the higher the risk for problems such as tooth decay or gum inflammation. 

Flossing can be tricky and tedious, however there are other options such as inter-dental brushes. 

Please refer to the 'Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease' tab located under 'General Dentistry' at the top of the page for more information. 

An Oral Health Therapist (OHT) is a dual qualified clinician; they are trained in both Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy.

OHT's play an integral part to dentistry as they focus on disease prevention through education and clinical treatment, and therefore do much more than simply 'clean teeth all day'. 

OHT's and hygienists regularly perform a diverse range of procedures such as;

• Cleaning and polishing
• Fluoride applications 
• Periodontal disease treatment and management 
• Taking X-rays and diagnostic imaging
• Impressions 
• Scanning
• Orthodontic procedures
• Fillings and extractions (age dependant)
• Treatment planning alongside the dentist 
• Detect decay, cracking, acid erosion and wear 
• Screen for soft tissue abnormalities, including oral cancer 
• Educate patients as to how best take control of their oral health 

At Dimos Dental, our OHT's will provide you with your routine hygiene services whilst our dentists are responsible for your general and cosmetic dentistry. This allows for consistency and successful collaboration between our clinicians. 

It is generally recommended you see a dentist every 6-12 months for a routine checkup.

It is also generally recommended you see a hygienist every 6 months for a routine clean.

However, if you are at higher risk for dental problems such as decay or gum disease, it is likely that your dentist and/or hygienist will request to see you on a more frequent basis. 

It's generally recommended to postpone elective dental work like fillings until after pregnancy. However, if you have a cavity causing pain or an infection, it's crucial to address it immediately. Untreated dental problems can pose risks to both mother and baby.  Your dentist will take precautions and discuss the safest filling options for your situation.

Silver fillings made of amalgam don't last forever. With time they may show signs of cracking, leaking or chipping. The tooth itself may weaken also, depending on the size of the filling. This signifies the filling is at the end of its lifespan and we tend to recommend replacing the filling at this time. A more modern material to use is a composite resin which is tooth coloured and more aesthetically pleasing than amalgam. 

Additionally, amalgam fillings do contain trace amounts of mercury which has seen a rise in patients electing to have their fillings replaced sooner rather than later. This is a personal preference and an elective procedure, as old amalgam fillings are considered safe. 

The lifespan of a dental filling depends on several factors. These include the filling material, its location, oral care habits, and individual factors like teeth grinding. Metal fillings typically last the longest, especially in low-chewing-pressure areas. Additionally, good oral hygiene practices contribute to their longevity.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during a filling procedure. Your dentist will use local anaesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring you don't feel pain during the process. You may experience some temporary sensitivity after the anaesthesia wears off, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication if required.

Dental fillings can be made from several different materials:

• Amalgam (silver fillings): A durable alloy of silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Historically popular, but less commonly used today due to aesthetic concerns.
• Composite resin: Tooth-coloured material made of plastic and fine glass particles. Blends well with your natural teeth.
• Gold: Very strong and long-lasting, but also the most expensive option.
• Ceramic: Similar to composite resin in colour, but even more durable.
• Glass Ionomer: Releases fluoride, which may help protect teeth. Often used for fillings below the gum line or temporary fillings in children.

Composite resin utilises modern adhesive techniques to restore the structural, biomechanical and aesthetic integrity of teeth by 'bonding' to the tooth surface. 

These fillings are tooth-coloured to match your smile, unlike silver amalgam fillings of the past. 

Composite restorations are used for a variety of purposes such as; 

- Small restorations

- Replacement of amalgam fillings

- Bonding to restore functionality i.e. due to chipping/fracture

- Veneer/covering of discoloured/mishapen teeth

The short answer is straight away!

However, be careful to avoid hot food and drink until the local anaesthetic has worn off (if it was needed) to avoid burns.

Laser treatments for snoring have mixed results. Some patients might experience a temporary reduction in snoring. However, laser treatments don't address the underlying cause of snoring and often aren't a long-term solution. It's best to consult with a dentist specialising in sleep disorders to explore more effective options for your situation.

Sleep apnoea can indirectly contribute to bad breath (halitosis). Mouth breathing, a common side effect of sleep apnoea, dries out the mouth leading to a build-up of bacteria that can cause bad breath.

The relationship between sleep apnoea and weight is interconnected. Sleep apnoea can disrupt metabolism and increase levels of hormones that contribute to weight gain. However, being overweight or obese is also a major risk factor for developing sleep apnoea.

Dentists can help to diagnose and treat sleeping disorders in several ways:

• Identifying the cause of your snoring: They'll examine your mouth, jaw, and airway to pinpoint potential factors contributing to your snoring.
• Oral appliances: Dentists can design custom-made oral appliances that gently open your airway during sleep, reducing or eliminating snoring.
• Sleep apnoea diagnosis and treatment: If they suspect sleep apnoea, dentists can offer in-house diagnosis options, like sleep studies, and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include oral appliances as well as other options.

An overnight sleep study is usually recommended to aid in the diagnosis of sleep disorders.

Such studies monitor breathing, blood oxygen and quality of sleep. 

This can be achieved in a clinical environment, or even in the comfort of your own home.

Here at Dimos Dental we can provide a take-home kit to test for sleep apnoea, after which we discuss results during a consultation appointment. 

Appropriate treatment will be advised depending on individual results. 

Sleep apnoea is usually diagnosed through a sleep study, which can take two main forms: a home sleep test, where a simplified monitoring device is used in the comfort of one's own bed, or an in-lab sleep study (polysomnogram), which is a more extensive overnight examination conducted in a sleep laboratory, monitoring various bodily functions during sleep.

Treatment options include:

• CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure): A device providing gentle air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep.
• Oral appliance therapy: Custom-made oral appliances for mild to moderate sleep apnea.
• Surgery: In some cases, to remove airway obstructions.
• Lifestyle changes: Weight loss and positional therapy (avoiding sleeping on your back) can be beneficial.

There are 2 common methods used to treat sleep apnoea;

1. Somnomed- often prescribed for mild-moderate sleep apnoea patients, the device works by moving the jaw and tongue forward during sleep to open the airways. 

2. CPAP machine- often prescribed for severe sleep apnoea patients, the machine pumps pressurised air through the nose and/or mouth to prevent the collapse of the airway.

A sleep test is required to determine which method would be most effective.

Sleep apnoea manifests when breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, often stemming from various causes. These causes include the relaxation of throat muscles, where soft tissues at the back of the throat collapse, obstructing the airway. Additionally, excess weight can contribute to sleep apnoea, as fat deposits around the neck can constrict the air passage. Anatomical factors such as enlarged tonsils, a narrow airway, or a deviated septum can also play a role in the condition. Furthermore, medical conditions can occasionally contribute to sleep apnoea, acting as underlying health issues.

The best snoring treatment depends on the severity and the underlying cause. Here are common approaches:

• Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol before bed can help in mild cases.
• Oral appliances: A go-to choice for many patients, custom-made by a dentist.
• CPAP therapy: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure is the gold standard for sleep apnea but can be helpful for some cases of snoring.
• Surgery: In certain cases, surgery might be needed to address anatomical blockages.

TMD can sometimes contribute to dizziness or vertigo.  The mechanisms are complex, but it may involve the nerves and muscles around the TMJ affecting balance and equilibrium.

Yes, TMJ dysfunction is a common cause of facial pain. The pain may be focused in the jaw area but can also radiate to the temples, cheek, forehead, and even the neck. Additionally, while TMJ doesn't directly cause migraines, they often co-exist. Jaw tension, muscle tightness, and inflammation from TMJ can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals.

Due to the close proximity of the jaw joint to the ears, TMJ dysfunction can cause a range of ear symptoms, including:

• Ear pain or fullness
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Temporarily decreased hearing

It’s essential to give your jaw adequate rest by avoiding hard or chewy foods, excessive talking, and chewing gum. Applying heat or ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes can provide relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as can also help alleviate discomfort. Stress management techniques like deep breathing or meditation are beneficial in reducing tension in the jaw muscles. Additionally, incorporating gentle jaw exercises recommended by your dentist can contribute to easing TMJ pain and improving joint mobility.

Treating temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) involves various strategies tailored to its severity and underlying causes. Self-care practices such as applying heat or ice packs, consuming soft foods, and employing stress-management techniques can offer relief. Additionally, oral appliances like custom mouthguards are utilised to protect teeth from night time clenching/grinding and/or reposition the jaw. Physical therapy, encompassing jaw exercises and stretches, aims at alleviating pain and enhancing joint function. Medications such as pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed. In some instances, injections of muscle relaxants or corticosteroids are administered to mitigate inflammation and muscle tension. Surgery remains a last resort, primarily reserved for severe cases or structural issues within the joint.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) has several potential causes, including:

• Jaw injury or trauma
• Excessive strain from teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
• Arthritis leading to degenerative changes in the jaw joint
• Uneven pressure on the jaw joints due to a misaligned bite (malocclusion)
• Chronic stress leading to jaw tension and muscle tightness

Ideally you should avoid whitening as bleaching products have the potential to make sensitivity worse.

With this being said, a take-home whitening kit would work best as this can be used as desired. This means if sensitivity is experienced, the whitening can be paused until the discomfort subsides and then re-attempted. 

Sensitive toothpastes and desensitising gel can aid in reducing symptoms when bleaching teeth.

There are 2 options when it comes to bleaching your teeth; in-chair or via the use of a take-home kit. 

In-chair:

- Gum and oral tissues are isolated

- Bleach is directly applied to enamel

- In some cases a halogen or laser light can be used, but this is no longer common practice 

- Usually takes around 1.5 hours (15 minute cycles which are repeated 3-4 times depending on the patient)

At home:

- Impressions of the teeth are taken and trays are made to fit your teeth 

- Bleach is applied to the inside of the trays

- The length of time in which to wear the trays depends on the strength of the bleach being used

- The whitening can be done as frequently as required 

The most common dental emergency is dental infection which more often than not presents as a strong toothache. 

Advanced infections may require a course of antibiotics, and eventually root canal treatment (RCT) to remove the infection at the source. 

RCT's involve the removal of infected nerve tissue and are completed under local anaesthetic, usually requiring 2-3 appointments. 

A dental emergency refers to any situation involving the teeth, gums, or surrounding tissues that requires immediate attention from a dental professional to alleviate pain, prevent further damage, or address a serious oral health issue. Common examples of dental emergencies include severe toothaches, knocked-out teeth, cracked or fractured teeth, significant oral bleeding, injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth, severe swelling or abscesses, and issues with dental appliances such as broken braces or wires. Any condition causing intense pain, interfering with normal oral function, or posing a risk of infection or permanent damage typically warrants prompt dental care.

In a dental emergency, staying calm is key. Start by assessing the situation, then contact your dentist right away; if it's after hours, contact an emergency clinic. Follow any instructions from your dentist and seek emergency care if needed. Acting swiftly can greatly impact the outcome, so don't delay in getting help.

Get in touch with us immediately if you experience;

• Toothache
• Jaw pain
• Facial swelling
• A visible broken tooth or restoration i.e. front tooth or teeth
• Oral lesions i.e. blisters  
• Soft tissue injury
• A tooth which has been knocked out or traumatised (Please note: If a child has knocked a baby tooth out, do NOT attempt to place it back in the socket)