You want a dentist close to home who is open about costs and pays attention to what you need. More choice doesn’t always make that easier, because clinics vary a lot in how they communicate, what they offer and what patients end up paying. This guide covers what to look for and what to ask.
What makes a dental clinic worth trusting
- A stable team. When the same team looks after you over time, your records, concerns and preferences are known, and you don’t start from scratch at each visit.
- Plain talk about costs. A clinic should explain the options and costs before treatment starts, so you know what your fund may pay, what falls outside your annual limit, and what you’ll pay yourself. Be wary of a clinic that’s vague about price.
- A full range of care in one place. Check-ups, fillings, X-rays, children’s dentistry, and restorative and cosmetic treatment when you need them, without being sent to several providers.
- A good approach with children. Early experiences shape how children feel about the dentist. Look for a team that explains things at their level and doesn’t rush.
Keeping costs clear
- Use your health fund. Many extras policies include dental cover, and annual limits usually reset each year. Check your limit and plan check-ups around it.
- Keep up preventive care. A small cavity found early is a smaller job than an abscess or a crown later.
- Ask what’s urgent. Not every recommendation has to happen at once. A good dentist will tell you what’s urgent, what’s recommended and what can wait.
- Know what a “no gap” offer includes. A no-gap clean may not include X-rays or fluoride. Ask exactly what’s included so there are no surprises.
When you need an emergency dentist
Contact a dental clinic promptly for:
- A severe or lasting toothache
- Swelling of the gum, jaw or face
- A tooth that’s been knocked out, broken or badly chipped
- Signs of infection, such as fever or pus around a tooth
- A lost or damaged filling or crown that’s causing pain
If an adult tooth is knocked out, hold it by the crown, not the root, rinse it gently if it’s dirty, and put it back in the socket or keep it in milk on the way to the dentist. The sooner it’s seen, the better.
At our clinics we prioritise dental pain and urgent cases throughout the day. See emergency dentistry.
The services a family clinic should offer
- General dentistry: regular check-ups and cleans. Many people come twice a year, though some need more or fewer visits.
- Children’s dentistry, with patience and clear explanations.
- Restorative treatment: implants, crowns and bridges, and dentures, with the differences, the process and the costs explained first.
- Cosmetic treatment: whitening, veneers and Invisalign. These are elective, so expect a thorough consultation and no pressure to go ahead.
Five questions to ask, and how we answer them
- Do you work with my health fund? We’re a preferred provider for CBHS, GU Health, nib and Qantas at both clinics, and Bupa Members First at Prestons.
- Will I see the same dentist each time? You can ask for the same dentist each time. Dr Amgad Sous, Dr Kay La, Dr Mark Henin and Dr Matthew Khalil work at both clinics, and Dr Sandy Ghattas at Prestons.
- Will you explain costs before treatment? Yes. Your dentist explains the options and costs before anything is booked, and starting prices are on our fees page.
- How do you handle emergencies, including after hours? We prioritise dental pain and urgent cases throughout the day. After-hours help may be available depending on Dr Amgad’s availability: call the clinic and the call may be redirected to him.
- What payment options do you have? Afterpay, Zip and DentiCare, arranged with your dentist.
A long-term relationship with your dentist
Dental needs change through life. Children need different care from adults, and pregnancy, some medications and long-term health conditions can all affect your mouth. A dentist who knows your history can spot changes early, give advice that fits you, and refer you on when you need it.
For Edmondson Park, our nearer clinic is Prestons, on Camden Valley Way, with ample parking. Our Moorebank clinic is the other option. Book online or call.
This article is general information only and isn’t dental advice. See a registered dental practitioner about your own needs.