Preventive

General Dentistry

General Dentistry covers all aspects of dentistry and overlaps each of the specialist disciplines, for example endodontics, prosthodontics etc. However the term General Dentistry refers mainly to restorations which include the following procedures.

Composite Restorations

A tooth coloured, plastic and glass particle based, filling material used to restore teeth and mimic the tooth’s natural appearance. Composite restorations are suitable for small to medium sized cavities, especially in the front teeth, although they are regularly used throughout the mouth. The advantages of this type of restoration are;

• that it can strengthen teeth, as it bonds to the surrounding tooth structure.
• insulates the tooth’s nerve from major temperature changes
• looks like natural tooth structure.

Endodontics

Root Canal Treatment (also known as Endodontics) is required when the pulp (nerve) inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed, caused by:

• a deep cavity
• trauma
• gum disease
• crack or chip in the tooth
• extreme wear

Symptoms may include pain, sensitivity to heat or cold, tooth discoloration, and swelling or soreness in the gums surrounding the tooth.

The aim of root canal treatment is to save the tooth from being extracted as natural teeth are usually stronger and function more efficiently than artificial teeth.

Crown and Bridge

Crown

The outside of each tooth is made of enamel, which is extremely hard and difficult to break, however a tooth can sustain damage that can weaken it through:

• Trauma ( which involves chips and breaks to the tooth)
• Large restorations
• Extensive decay
• Excessive wear of the enamel
• Root Canal Treatment.

In these cases a crown is usually the best way to save and strengthen the tooth. The crown is made to fit over the existing natural tooth and replaces the natural crown (the part of the tooth seen above the gums).

Bridge

A Bridge is designed to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of an artificial tooth attached to crowns that fit on each tooth either side of the gap. The bridge is then cemented in place as a whole unit, which is supported by the crowns on either side.

Crowns and Bridges are usually made of porcelain (ceramic) and gold alloy. These materials are used in the mouth as allergic reactions are rare and these materials are well tolerated by the gums and cheeks.
The porcelain part of the crown is custom made to match the natural look of the teeth and is strong and resistant to staining. The gold alloy is used to build the substructure of the crown and is used due to its strength, hardness and durability.

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are custom made tooth-coloured porcelain (ceramic) shells, that are carefully crafted to bond to and cover the front of unsightly teeth. Veneers are a more conservative treatment than a crown and can be used as an alternative, if the underlying tooth is strong and healthy.
Veneers are excellent for improving a smile, where teeth are:

• Discoloured
• Chipped or worn
• Slightly misaligned
• Irregularly shaped or uneven
• Slight gaps between teeth

Dental Implants

A dental implant is a replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. The implant is placed in the bone of the upper or lower jaw and allowed to bond with the bone. Once healing and bone integration has occurred (between 2-6months), the implant acts as a foundation for a crown, or if several implants are used, the foundation for bridgework or securing dentures.

Teeth Whitening

Stained and discoloured teeth can often be of concern for some people; whitening is a simple and safe option to lighten the teeth by several shades.

Whitening of the teeth is achieved by the placement of whitening gel, in custom made trays that are designed to closely fit around the teeth. These trays are worn for 1 to 2 hours each day to gradually lighten the teeth and optimum results usually occur in about two weeks.

Teeth appear discoloured due to various causes and these can be intrinsic or extrinsic. Some examples of extrinsic causes can be consumption of tea, coffee, red wine and nicotine from smoking. Intrinsic causes can be due to tetracycline stains during development of the enamel when young.

There are various methods to improve or make teeth appear less yellow. Although the success of teeth whitening is currently very good, not all teeth can be whitened properly. For example teeth that have been restored will need to have their restorations replaced after teeth whitening is done. Teeth will generally whiten better if they have been scaled and cleaned prior to the whitening procedure.

For these reasons, it is important to have a comprehensive examination of each patient and their individual needs discussed to achieve the best possible result.

Emergency Dental

Regular dental care and maintenance of your teeth helps to prevent potential problems and unexpected pain. But if you do experience any sudden dental problems, we set aside time on a daily basis, to ensure prompt care is available.
During these emergency appointments Dr Brian Teoh, will identify the problem and give interim care to alleviate symptoms. Once comfortable the client can discuss treatment options and make an informed decision on further dental care.

Payment Options

HICAPS

We offer HICAPS claiming at reception for efficient electronic claiming for your private Health Insurance

HCF More for Teeth Program

Marangaroo Dental Centre is affiliated with HCF no-gap dental program, More for Teeth . This means you can now claim 100% back on a range of the most common diagnostic and preventive services through a More for Teeth provider (subject to your annual limits and any waiting periods).

HBF Member Plus

Member Plus  Members get special benefits to help minimise out of pocket costs. With 100% back on your first scale and clean each year and no annual limit for preventative dental on select covers.

Child Dental Benefits Schedule

A Government Scheme that covers part or the full cost of some basic dental services for children (2-17 yrs ) if eligible.

DVA (Dept. Veteran Affairs)

Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) will fund all dental services, provided under DVA schedule for Veteran Gold Card holders and varying treatment for Veteran White Card holders.