Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes of course! We are always happy to welcome new patients to our practice.

Yes, we have HICAPS which allows us to process your claim instantly.

Unfortunately, we are unable to tell you what your health fund will cover as every health fund and membership package is different. 

You may also find that our fees vary for a particular service, for example a 2 surface filling will vary slightly from person to person. This is simply because it may take more time and material to restore one person's tooth over another. Unfortunately, it is not possible for a health scheme to adjust its scale of rebate to suit every case, so that you will find the rebate is geared for the "average" fee charged for a particular service.

No, we require payment at the time of your appointment.

We do however, accept all major credit cards VISA, Mastercard, AMEX etc.

Estimates for dental procedures normally require an oral examination as every patient presents with different dental concerns. Your dentist will be able to provide a quote for you at the time of your appointment, once they have performed their initial examination. Dental fees are affected by factors such as time and difficulty as well as the amount of dental technician’s time involved in certain crown, bridge and implant cases. It is suggested that all patients embarking on a course of treatment request an estimate of the eventual total fees to avoid any misunderstanding.

At Telopea Park Dental, we firmly believe that patients should receive their essential dental care without any outside influences beyond the patient's priorities and needs. This mission is reflected in our comprehensive treatment planning, which will always offer you options for varying degrees of care.

We also want our patients to understand that the Australian Government does not cover most dental service costs as it does with other health services. Most dental expenses are paid for by patients or through private health insurance.

Child Dental Benefits Schedule

We also participate in this program which covers elemental dental services, including dental check-ups, x-ray, cleaning, sealing cracked teeth, fillings, root canals and extractions for children between the ages of two and 17.

This program is available to families who are already receiving other government benefits.

Private Dental Insurance Coverage

Many Australians pay for dental care by accessing private health insurance. In general, most health funds will cover up to half of your dental care costs. However, keep in mind that policies are different depending on the health fund you choose.

Be aware of limits on how much you can claim in one year. According to Austalia's HealthDirect, "dental services covered are set out in the 'General treatment, Extras or Ancillary' section of the policy."

If you have any additional questions, don't hesitate to contact our clinic and speak with one of our qualified team members. 

As a general rule no. There is however, a Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) where the Australian government has sent eligible children letters confirming his or her eligibility in the scheme. Each eligible child can claim up to $1026 over a two-year period, provided he or she is still eligible at the time of claiming the benefit. 

We offer all options of filling materials to our patients: Composite, Porcelain (Ceramic), Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC), Resin Modified Glass Ionomer Cement (RMGIC), Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM), Gold and yes.. Amalgam restorations.

Please before you choose what’s right for both you and your teeth read the very informative PDF: The Facts about Fillings – California Dental Association 

At Telopea Park Dental, we are proud of the accessibility of our location in Garran, ACT, serving the surrounding Canberra area communities of O’Malley, Chifley, Lyons and Hughes. We are enthusiastic about providing the essential services you and your family need.

Our clinic address:

Brindabella Specialist Centre
Suite 12, 5 Dann Close
Garran, ACT 2605

Our clinic is on the first floor of the Brindabella Specialist Centre, on the SE end of the Canberra Hospital complex. Our location is easy to access via Hindmarsh Drive and Yamba Drive from all directions. We are close to Eddison Park and just NW of Mount Mugga Mugga Nature Reserve.

Directions to Our Garran Dental Practice

We encourage patients to use the best route to Hindmarsh Drive from areas east or west of the Canberra Hospital. From Lyons and Chifley, follow Hindmarsh Drive east, and one block past Yamba Drive, you will turn left on Palmer Street. From O’Mally and communities west of the hospital, take Hindmarsh Drive west to Palmer Street.

From South of the Canberra Hospital, the most direct route is to access Yamba Drive and follow it north to Hindmarsh Drive, where you will turn right and then left onto Palmer Street.

When you are on Palmer Street, you will turn left on Bateson Road, then south on Dann Close at the traffic circle, leading you to the parking area in front of the Brindabella Specialist Centre building.

Central and Convenient Canberra, ACT Dental Clinic

We are delighted to welcome new patients to learn what makes us an excellent dental partner in Garran and beyond. We invite you to call us for more about our dental services for every family member.

The $1052 cap under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) covers basic dental services such as:

• Check-ups
• Teeth cleaning
• Fluoride
• Root canal treatment
• X-rays
• Fissure sealing
• Fillings
• Extractions
• Stainless Steel crowns

Orthodontic and cosmetic dental treatments are not covered under the CDBS. Also, if the entire $1052 is not used by the end of the two years, it will not be carried forward for future use. This entitlement is not transferable.

The Australian Dental Association recommends that parents should bring their children for their first dental visit within six months of their first tooth's eruption or by their first birthday, whichever comes first.

At Telopea Park Dental, we know the many reasons to start dental care early:

• We may detect any potential dental conditions at an early stage so that resolving them will be less involved and invasive
• Your child can acclimate more readily to the dental clinic when they are young and experience it as a safe and inviting environment.
• Our hygienists can help you apply an excellent at-home routine to keep your child's first teeth clean and free from decay.

Prepare for Your Child's First Visit

You can prepare your child for their dental visits by using positive language. For example, some parents reading books or stories about happy dental visits can make the parts of their check-up seem less strange.

Most parents agree that modelling good behaviour is very effective when getting their children to embrace certain things. For example, we suggest that you bring your child to your routine check-up so they can watch you handle your appointment without complaint. Then perhaps consider a healthy, post-visit treat for extra positive reinforcement.

No. If you choose to pay with private insurance funds, you cannot apply the CDBS benefits to make payments for the same treatment.

You may call the Medicare inquiry hotline at 132 011 to check your balance amount or access your Medicare online account.

Yes, nitrous oxide is considered very safe and effective and generally quite acceptable to children. Many children show enthusiasm for using the gas and report feeling a tingling or warming sensation. Nitrous oxide can help expedite uncomfortable procedures (injections, extractions) and also facilitate longer procedures (fillings) that require the patient not to move. However, some children may experience nausea or have difficulty wearing the mask.

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) was introduced by Medicare in 2014. Its aim was to improve access to dental services for children from Australia’s lower income households. The CDBS reduces social inequalities by providing financial support for basic dental and oral health care services for children in Australia. Now, thanks to Medicare, it is estimated that over 3+ million children have sufficient access to state-of-the-art technology for their dental and oral care needs.

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) gives eligible children a total benefit entitlement cap of $1052 per child, which is valid over two consecutive calendar years. If your child does not use the full $1052 cap in the first year, the balance can still be used next year, as long as your child is still eligible. 

For detailed information from the Department website regarding the CDBS.

To be eligible for the CDBS, your child (or children) must be aged between 2 and 17. Your family must also have a Medicare card, and be receiving at least one of the following Government payments:

Family Tax Benefit A
Disability Support Pension
ABSTUDY
Parenting payment
Double Orphan Pension
Carer payment
Special Benefit
Youth Allowance
Financial assistance via the Veteran’s Children Education Scheme (VCES)
Financial assistance via the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act (MRCAETS) – for children over 16.

If your child meets the CDBS eligibility requirements, you would have received a letter from the Australian Government that confirms his or her eligibility. Each eligible child can claim up to $1052 over a two-year period, provided he or she is still eligible at the time of claiming the benefit.

For detailed information from the Department website regarding eligibility checks.

For individuals with discoloured, misshapen, or misaligned but otherwise healthy teeth, dental veneers offer a non-invasive path to a better-looking smile.

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells (typically of porcelain) that are bonded to the fronts of teeth in order to improve their appearance. As veneers are only a cosmetic solution, it’s vital that issues like tooth decay or gum disease be addressed beforehand. While veneers are a long-term solution, they are, in fact, not permanent.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

With proper care, veneers can be expected to last, on average, between 10 and 15 years. This care includes:

• Good oral hygiene (brushing daily with a non-abrasive toothpaste, flossing regularly)
• Regular dental exams
• Not biting or chewing on hard objects
• Avoiding excessive teeth grinding or clenching

Of course, as each person’s dental profile and oral hygiene habits are unique, consult with a qualified dental professional for a reasonable estimate of longevity.

Also, there are risks associated with a surgical or invasive procedure. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Dental Veneers in Garran, ACT

If you’re in the Garran and Canberra area and would like more information about dental veneers, dentist Dr Eric Kropinak and the team at Telopea Park Dental are available for a consultation.

Thanks to the non-porous materials used for porcelain veneers, they are highly resistant to stains that can result from the pigments in food, drinks, or tobacco. As a result, assuming proper care, veneers tend to remain stain-free and maintain their original colour.

However, it's worth noting that the bonding material used to attach the veneers to natural teeth can become discoloured over time, especially with exposure to staining agents like coffee, red wine, or tobacco.

How to Keep Veneers Stain-Free

To help the bonding material used in dental veneers keep its natural colour, it is recommended that patients:

• Avoid excessive consumption of the aforementioned staining agents, as well as others, like beets and red berries.
• Commit to an oral hygiene routine that includes brushing at least twice daily with a non-abrasive toothpaste and flossing regularly.
• Schedule regular dental exams to maximise the lifespan of dental veneers.

Please note that any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Dental Veneers in Garran, ACT

If you're in the Garran and Canberra area and would like more information about dental veneers, dentist Dr Eric Kropinak and the team at Telopea Park Dental are available for a consultation.

We are pleased to offer cosmetic dentistry in Garran, ACT, with options to fit most budgets and smile goals.

Dr Eric Kropinak first has you come in for a consultation, especially if you’re a new patient. At this visit, we learn what you hope to achieve through cosmetic dentistry. Then, we discuss our options and check your oral health to ensure candidacy. This visit is also an excellent time to share your questions or concerns with the dentist.

Cosmetic Dentistry Near Me

Our cosmetic dentistry options include the following:

• Professional teeth whitening — Trust your teeth whitening to the professionals at Telopea Park Dental.
• Dental crowns — Conceal tooth flaws while restoring a weak or broken tooth.
• Tooth-coloured restorations — Cosmetic fillings can replace unsightly silver.
• Dental bonding — Tooth-coloured filling material can also fill tooth chips and cracks.
• Tooth replacement — We offer everything from dental implants to bridges.
• Dental veneers — Hide everything from gummy smiles to short teeth with this option.

We provide aftercare instructions to help you make the most of your new smile. This includes reminders to continue seeing your dentist regularly for checkups and teeth cleans to encourage lasting results.

Are You Considering Cosmetic Dentistry in Garran, ACT?

If you would like to book a cosmetic dentistry consultation or if you would like a second opinion, we encourage you to contact our dental clinic today.

Patients come to us from all locales, including Garran, O’Malley, Phillip, Canberra, and your neighbourhood.

After a root canal treatment, the structural integrity of your tooth has been weakened and the remaining tooth structure prone to fracture. This is why your dentist might recommend a dental crown for protection of your root filled tooth, especially for your back teeth (molar, premolar) as they are used continuously when eating throughout the day.

For many patients, getting a crown is no more painful than getting a cavity filled thanks to the use of local anesthetic and modern impression techniques. Most people report feeling comfortable throughout their procedure, feeling a little pressure and movement at times, but not pain.

From start to finish, a conventional crown procedure is usually completed in 2 visits 2 weeks apart.

From start to finish, a conventional dental bridge procedure is usually completed in 2 visits 2 weeks apart.

From start to finish, a conventional dental implant procedure is usually completed in 3 to 6 months.

A broken dental crown can be worrisome, but it’s no cause for panic. There are several options to solve the problem including:

• Bonding composite resin to the broken crown
• Recementing the crown (if the crown and tooth is still intact)
• Replacing the broken crown with a new crown
• Extracting the tooth and replacing it with a dental implant.

Ultimately, you’ll need to see a dentist to fix a broken crown.

Dental crowns are custom made tooth shaped 'caps' placed on top of damaged teeth. Crowns are used to protect, cover and restore the shape of your teeth when fillings do not solve the problem. Dental crowns can be made out of metals, porcelain, resin and ceramics.

A crown is used to cover an existing tooth, while a dental bridge is used to fill in the space or gap caused by one or more missing teeth.  In its most simple form a bridge is made up of a false porcelain tooth (pontic) that is held between two porcelain crowns (abutments).  The abutments are placed over the existing teeth on either side of the gap in your smile, functioning as anchors for the false tooth.

As general rule crowns cost 4-5 times as much as fillings because they require considerable more chair time and material expense to the dentist.  Crowns also give patients a stronger, longer lasting, more permanent and more aesthetic restoration.

Fillings:

• Fillings are done when there is a small chip or hole in a tooth - lots of solid tooth structure remaining after caries removal.
• Fillings are done in one visit, usually taking 15 to 30 minutes of chair time after diagnosis.

Crowns:

• A crown is indicated when the carious destruction in the tooth is larger than ~50% or when a large portion of the tooth has fractured off and there is not enough support for a filling.
• Most crowns require two visits. One for the preparation, impression, and fabrication of a temporary crown (while the permanent crown is made at the local laboratory). The second appointment is needed to remove the temporary crown, fit, adjust, and cement the permanent crown.
• The first appointment (crown prep) is about 90 minutes long, the second appointment (crown insert) about 45 minutes long.
• Also, if the tooth is heavily destroyed, an additional filling under the crown (core build-up) is needed.

From start to finish, a conventional dental implant procedure is usually completed in 3 to 6 months.

Strong and stable, a dental implant restores a lost tooth so that it looks, feels, fits and functions like a natural tooth. Unlike dental bridges that rely on neighbouring teeth (abutments) for support, dental implants are fused into your jawbone. This is feature is especially important when the neighbouring teeth adjacent to the gap are unrestored, as implants will protect these teeth from damage or strain.

Both dental implants and dental bridges act as “fixed” tooth replacement options for missing teeth. Dentures are the removable replacement option. 

There are different types of dental bridges, but in its most simple form a bridge is made up of a false porcelain tooth (pontic) that is held between two porcelain crowns (abutments).  The abutments are placed over the existing teeth on either side of the gap in your smile, functioning as anchors for the false tooth.

Rather than relying on the adjacent teeth, dental implants are surgically placed in the bone where the missing tooth used to be.  Generally made of titanium, and after a 3-6 month healing period, the implant fuses to the bone (osseointegration) to create a secure base for a false prosthetic porcelain tooth to attach to.

Yes, especially patients with damaged front teeth and children.  Broken or missing fillings are best treated as soon as possible too, even if they do not hurt.  We set aside multiple emergency appointments per day to accommodate this, but they do fill up.

Though by their nature, dental emergencies are unpredictable, at Telopea Park Dental, we suggest that you prepare in advance for most events that will lead to urgent dental care.

First, some things are always an emergency.

Treat an Avulsed Tooth Immediately

If one of your permanent teeth has been knocked out or avulsed, seek treatment right away. Your timely action may save your tooth. If you have an avulsed tooth, our team recommends these immediate measures:

1. Don't touch your tooth's root, only touch the crown
2. Rinse with clear warm water
3. If possible, insert the whole tooth back into its original socket and secure it will gauze or bandages
4. If you can't put it back in the socket, keep the tooth moist in a packet of water or saliva
5. Call our clinic without delay

Dental Pain May Be an Emergency

Though dental pain is an unwanted guest at any party, its appearance can have many meanings. If you have a toothache, the first thing we will want to know is your pain's intensity. We suggest you classify it on a scale of one to ten.

If swelling and heat accompany your pain, you might be suffering from a tooth infection. We recommend early infection treatment since all infections are progressive, worsening if left alone.

Regardless of your individual experience and circumstances, we suggest you call our clinic in case of any emergency so we can offer our expertise and advice. 

We always endeavour to accommodate patients who are in pain on the day that they call. However, emergencies cannot always be treated by the dentist on the same day depending on when the phone call is made.

Dental emergencies involving tooth fractures are common and treatable but can become a significant problem if you avoid your dentist. So, if you’ve cracked a tooth, the first thing you should do is call our Garran dental clinic. Depending on the level of damage, quick action can avoid further damage and enable us to save your tooth.

Our team is trained to assess tooth damage, asking the right questions so we can plan your solution. At Telopea Park Dental, we prioritise emergency dental care. Our dentists will take every measure to treat you the same day if possible. We also care for your urgent needs, even if you are a new patient.

Why You Should Treat a Cracked Tooth

Tooth fractures sometimes happen without you feeling any pain. However, even a minor crack compromises the entire tooth structure, making chewing an issue. Furthermore, a cracked tooth can quickly become a broken tooth when you bite down.

In addition to being more challenging to repair, a significant break in your tooth can allow plaque-causing bacteria inside, where an infection may establish itself. Over time, what began as a small crack can branch into severe tooth damage with an accompanied root infection. This outcome will undoubtedly be more painful and require more intense treatment.

The best way to save your tooth is to call us when it happens.

Yes, we do. Nitrous oxide is a very safe and effective method of anxiolysis (anxiety reduction). We have a portable nitrous unit, Matrx Fraser MDM Mixer - Air Liquide Healthcare Australia, that can be moved from operatory to operatory. We also use the disposable Porter Silhouette nasal masks and breathing circuits to prevent cross contamination. 

To find out more about nitrous oxide (happy/laughing gas) and whether it could work for you, please continue reading the Nitrous Oxide FAQ’s or contact the surgery on (02) 6106 9333 for an appointment. 

Yes, nitrous oxide is considered very safe and effective and generally quite acceptable to children. Many children show enthusiasm for using the gas and report feeling a tingling or warming sensation. Nitrous oxide can help expedite uncomfortable procedures (injections, extractions) and also facilitate longer procedures (fillings) that require the patient not to move. However, some children may experience nausea or have difficulty wearing the mask.

Nitrous oxide is a very safe and effective method of anxiolysis (anxiety reduction).  The positive effects of the nitrous oxide gas can be felt very quickly after inhalation, and conversely it also wears off very quickly after your dentist has stopped administering it.

Nitrous oxide can help anxious patients get important dental treatments that they might otherwise avoid out of fear or anxiety. It is especially useful for children’s dental treatment and recommended for:

• Patients who are fearful, anxious, or uncooperative
• Patients who have special health care needs
• Patients with gag reflexes that interfere with dental care
• Patients who do not respond adequately to local anaesthesia
• Younger patients who must undergo lengthy dental procedures
• Patients who fear needles
• Patients with a fear of dental / hospital environments
• Patients who have had a previous trauma that inhibits them from seeking dental treatment.

Nitrous oxide is a colourless and odourless gas (N2O) and is commonly referred to as happy gas or laughing gas.  Its administration in the dental setting falls under the category of inhalational analgesia/anxiolysis. Giving nitrous oxide is a way to help reduce a patient’s pain and anxiety experienced during dental treatment. The gas nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose. Patients are asked to breathe normally and should feel the effects of the laughing gas within minutes. 

Effects vary patient to patient but you will start to feel less inhibited, light-headed, tingly, or even heaviness in your arms or legs. Ultimately, you should be calm and comfortable throughout the procedure. You might even giggle a time or two.

Patients are relaxed but awake and aware of what is happening during treatment and will be able to respond to instructions and questions from staff. After dental treatment is completed 100% oxygen is administered and patient recovery is quick, usually within a few minutes, from the effects of the nitrous oxide gas. This means you will be able to drive yourself home after the appointment.

We offer all options of filling materials to our patients: Composite, Porcelain (Ceramic), Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC), Resin Modified Glass Ionomer Cement (RMGIC), Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM), Gold and yes.. Amalgam restorations.

Please before you choose what’s right for both you and your teeth read the very informative PDF: The Facts about Fillings – California Dental Association 

While nitrous oxide is considered a safe and effective anxiolytic, it might not be the right choice for you. There are several risk factors or contraindications for using nitrous oxide. Tell your dentist if you have any of the following conditions:

• Currently in the first trimester of pregnancy
• A history of respiratory illnesses like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Vitamin B-12 deficiency
• A history of substance abuse
• An enzyme condition methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase deficiency
• A history of mental health conditions

To reduce or prevent bad breath related to oral health:

• Brush your teeth twice a day
• Floss at least once a day
• Brush your tongue
• Clean your dentures or dental appliances
• Avoid dry mouth. Drink plenty of water
• Adjust your diet. Avoid foods such as onions and garlic that can cause bad breath.
• Regularly get a new toothbrush

Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings twice a year to have your teeth examined and cleaned.

Periodontitis is common but largely preventable. It's usually the result of poor oral hygiene. Brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily and getting regular dental cleanings every 6 months can greatly improve your chances of successful treatment for periodontitis and can also reduce your chance of developing it.

According to the Australian Department of Health, better than two out of ten Australians suffer from moderate to severe gum disease, also known as periodontitis. This condition results from accumulations on a person’s gums and teeth that nourish bacteria. When those bacteria grow out of balance, they cause an infection that can progress if not treated.

The good news is that gum disease is preventable, however it is only reversible in its early stages (gingivitis). Once bone loss and gum recession have occurred they generally cannot be recovered.  That’s why our team at Telopea Park Dental recommends periodic check-ups to detect periodontal disease and dental cleans to remove the build-up that sustains the infection.

Signs of Gum Disease

If you’re concerned about having gum disease, the first things to watch for are these emerging symptoms:

• Gums bleed with regular brushing or flossing
• Inflammation and Redness of gums
• Minor gum pain
• Bad breath

We suggest that anyone experiencing these symptoms may still treat their gum disease to the point of reversal. So, in addition to your six-month dental exams and cleans, you’ll also want to establish an ideal at-home oral hygiene routine.

This includes flossing followed by brushing for the full two minutes, ending with an antiseptic mouth rinse to further diminish bacteria in your mouth. Emphasising this routine, especially before bed, you can work with us towards making your gum health the best it can be.

In the early stages of gingivitis, bacteria in plaque build up, causing the gums to become inflamed and to easily bleed during tooth brushing. Although the gums may be irritated, the teeth are still firmly planted in their sockets. No irreversible bone or other tissue damage has occurred at this stage.

The good news is that you can prevent and reverse gingivitis by simply brushing your teeth, flossing, and having regular dental cleanings and checkups with your dental professional.

Periodontitis, also called gum disease, is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissues around your teeth and without treatment can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. Periodontitis can cause the teeth to become loose and leads to tooth loss if untreated.

Healthy gums are firm, pale pink and fit tight around teeth. Signs and symptoms of periodontitis can include:

• Bad breath
• Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
• Swollen or puffy gums
• Bright red or inflamed gums
• Loose teeth
• Painful chewing
• Gum recession - making your teeth look longer than normal
• New spaces developing between your teeth and/or
  a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

Periodontitis is common but largely preventable. It's usually the result of poor oral hygiene. Brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily and getting regular dental cleanings every 6 months can greatly improve your chances of successful treatment for periodontitis and can also reduce your chance of developing it.

Gingivitis and periodontitis are both types of periodontal disease. The key difference though is that gingivitis mild and reversible, while periodontitis is not. This is because periodontitis involves bone loss, which cannot be recovered.

According to the Australian Dental Association, dental X-rays are perfectly safe. While they do expose you to very low radiation levels, the harmful effects associated with them are also very low.

Some patients may want to use an all-natural or herbal toothpaste. These have been shown to work just as effectively, but it’s important to use one that contains fluoride.

Everyone’s oral health varies. As a general rule we recommend routine dental X-rays:

• every 2 to 3 years  - healthy adults, teens and kids.
• every 1 to 2 years  - heavily restored or damaged teeth, patients with a high risk of decay or history of cavities.

Additionally, prevention is always better than cure.  Brushing twice a day, flossing regularly and eating a healthy diet can prevent tooth decay and lessen the need for X-rays.

If you have good oral hygiene habits (brush twice daily, floss once daily) and maintain a healthy diet your dentist will probably suggest professional teeth cleaning twice a year. Many private health insurance policies will cover two cleanings per year, but few people take full advantage of their benefits.

All day every day a sticky film of bacteria is trying to form on your teeth. This film or biofilm is called plaque and it interacts with certain foods, mostly sugars, to produce acids that eat away at your tooth’s enamel forming holes or cavities.

The Australian Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth for 2 minutes twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. When you brush your teeth twice daily, you remove the plaque and food (sugar) from the teeth.

The Australian Dental Association recommends flossing at least once per day to remove plaque, bacteria and food debris.

The ideal manual toothbrush has a small head and soft bristles. Replace your toothbrush every three months or once it looks worn to maintain its effectiveness and avoid gum damage.

Some patients find that an electric toothbrush is easier to use over a manual toothbrush and does a more thorough job of cleaning the teeth and gums. Inbuilt timers, synchronized phone apps and alarms can all serve as prompts for correct use.

Each type of toothbrush works well as long as you use it as recommended by your health professional.  Thorough brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste for 2 minutes twice a day reduces the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.

Some patients like to use mouthwash because they feel this has a freshening effect on their mouth and breath, however most people do not need a mouthwash especially if they have good oral hygiene. Speak with your dentist about the potential risks of using a mouthwash to ‘mask’ bad breath and the negative effects of alcohol containing mouthwash on healthy oral tissues.

For the best protection find a toothpaste containing fluoride and the Australian Dental Association’s seal of approval. Fluoride is commonly used in toothpaste and public water supplies because it strengthens enamel which is the outer layer of your teeth.  Everything else is a matter of personal preference. It comes down to how well the toothpaste tastes and cleans.

A visual examination doesn’t always give your dentist all the necessary information needed for diagnosis.  X-rays, also known as radiographs, allow your dentist to see between and inside your teeth. 

Routine dental X-rays can show:

• Small areas of decay between teeth
• Decay beneath fillings
• Bone loss around teeth due to periodontal disease
• The position of teeth and bone levels for braces, implants and wisdom tooth extractions
• Abscesses, cysts and other types of tumours

Twice yearly dental cleanings are an important part of preventive dental care that will keep your teeth and gums healthy and protected into the future. 

Even if you're meticulous about taking care of your teeth, plaque and calculus are still quite common, so don't ignore those dental reminders and skip your regular 6 monthly cleaning appointment.

Here are some reasons you should see a dentist for a professional cleaning twice a year:

• Prevents holes and cavities
• Prevents gum disease
• Better looking smiles
• Economical benefits

Yes, we do.  

We currently have two options available for patients to choose from depending on time and budget: Philips Zoom Whitespeed in-chair teeth whitening and/or custom take home teeth whitening trays and gel.

Yes, it can but usually only temporarily. The 2 factors affecting tooth sensitivity is the concentration of the hydrogen/carbamide peroxide gel and the contact time between the gel and the teeth. The higher the concentration of the whitening gel used and/or increasing the contact time with gel and the teeth is what gives patients the increase in sensitivity.  In-chair teeth whitening is commonly known to give patients “zingers” because it uses dentist only high strength 25%-38% hydrogen peroxide.  Tooth contact time is only 30-60mins.

Your dentist can prescribe sensitive toothpastes, Tooth Mousse or desensitizing gels for use in custom made trays that will help relieve this transient sensitivity.

If TGA approved products are used as instructed by your dental professional, teeth whitening is a safe procedure.

Teeth whitening toothpastes are effective at removing very mild stains and discoloration from the surface of your teeth, however they are a lot less effective than other methods of teeth whitening procedures used in the dental office.  Ask your dental professional because some teeth whitening toothpastes contain abrasive agents, which can damage your tooth surface.

The speed of the tooth whitening effect is also proportional to the concentration of the hydrogen/carbamide peroxide gel and the contact time of the gel with the teeth (see tooth sensitivity FAQ). Increasing the gel concentration and/or increasing the contact time will give whiter teeth faster.

For the quickest and most predictable whitening effect:

1) Professional Scale clean and polish
2) In chair Zoom teeth whitening
3) Custom take home trays
 

Tooth whitening is nice to have and while it delivers many oral health benefits, it is not for everybody. Your teeth and gums need to be in a healthy state before starting any whitening procedure. Tooth whitening does not change the colour of decay, filings, veneers, crowns or bridges so If your teeth are heavily restored or have become badly damaged or decayed tooth whitening my not be for you.  Your dentist or hygienist will be best placed to examine the state of your teeth and give you any recommendations.

While time is kind to whiskey and wine, regular day to day usage often wears on our teeth. The combination of the foods we eat, the liquids we drink and other habits like smoking cigarettes will inevitably discolour our teeth. Luckily, at Telopea Park Dental, our team can offer professional teeth whitening.

Commerical-Grade Teeth Whitening in Garran

If you’re concerned about how safe teeth whitening is, then working under the supervision of a dentist will help ensure a professional is monitoring you. Dr Kropinak is a medical professional who can get results without sacrificing safety.

Our current whitening system is made by Philips Zoom! WhiteSpeed, and provides an excellent combination of strength and safety. Our goal is to adopt a whitening product made in Australia that works just as well.

Custom Take-Home Trays

With this option, a team member creates impressions of your teeth so that your whitening trays will fit your unique smile. This maintains the bleaching agent on your teeth and avoids contact with more sensitive gum tissues.

Then, you will use your trays at home at the most convenient time for you.

Whiten Your Teeth Safely with Telopea Park Dental

If you would like the best results from teeth whitening in the Canberra area, we advise you to take advantage of our professional experience and expertise. To learn more about professional teeth whitening with our clinic, we invite you to contact us to arrange an appointment.

When you choose to whiten your teeth, you have several different options including:

• Professional teeth cleaning and polishing  
• Whitening toothpaste
• Custom made take home trays with hydrogen/carbamide peroxide gels
• In-office power whitening

Your teeth are porous in nature so anything you put in your mouth that has colour will absorb into them. Wine, coffee, tea, smoking and dark foods are all very effective at staining teeth. Over time, the natural colour of your teeth become darker due to these stains. These stains will never go away unless you actively remove them. Properly prescribed teeth whitening gels work by absorbing into your teeth and gently breaking down the stain molecules.

Tooth discolouration is caused by both external and internal stains. Professional teeth cleaning and polishing are very effective at removing these surface stains.  Once the external stains have been removed and the tooth surfaces cleaned and polished the teeth whitening gels are applied and absorbed deep into the internal tooth structure breaking down the dark stains.

There are several advantages to choosing professional teeth whitening products at a dental office.

The main reason for choosing in-office teeth whitening is the strength of the whitening gel used. The reason professional whitening is so much faster and more effective than over the counter treatments is because it has a higher concentration of the bleaching element hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. This higher concentration is TGA approved for use only by dentists. The results of the treatment are often seen immediately. Teeth whitening procedures can be performed in-chair over a one hour time frame.

In addition, in-office whitening is safer than over the counter treatments. While the concentration of the bleaching element is higher, it is better monitored by a professional dental practitioner. This allows for a safer and more effective treatment.

A whiter, brighter smile is often associated with youth, happiness and success. It has a large effect on how society will view you.  Perhaps the largest reason that whiter teeth are associated with youth is that our teeth become yellow, discoloured and damaged over time.

Sometimes, a root canal can get reinfected if bacteria enter the tooth. At Telopea Park Dental, we offer effective and comfortable root canal therapy for infected teeth, including teeth that have been reinfected. 

Our goal is to restore your oral health and well-being. Most root canals are successful and provide relief from discomfort and pain. A successful root canal saves a natural tooth and extends its life, matching the surrounding healthy teeth. 

Why Does Root Canal Reinfection Occur?

Sometimes, a root canal can get reinfected due to the persistence of bacteria, untreated canals and other complications. Some reasons a tooth can get reinfected may be because of the following:

• Small root canal structure, including hidden or curved canals 
• Delayed placement of a protective filling
• Bacteria from saliva enter under the filling material before the sealing process
• New cavities developing due to poor oral hygiene 
• New bacteria enter the tooth through cracks, breaks or fractures
• Complicated root canal system anatomy 

Signs of Root Canal Reinfection 

Signs of a root canal reinfection include:

• Sensitivity to pressure and temperature 
• Pain or sensitivity when placing pressure on the teeth 
• Swollen gums
• Pimples or bumps on the gums 
• Yellowish or green discharge or pus 
• Dull, consistent ache in a particular area 
• Intense pain around or in the tooth 
• Bad taste or odour in the mouth

If you experience any of these symptoms, we invite you to contact our dental practice for assistance. Our dental team can help relieve discomfort and restore your tooth to its former glory! 

Root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp, the soft tissue inside the root canal, becomes inflamed or infected. Some common reasons why you might need root canal treatment:

• Deep decay
• Repeated dental procedures on a tooth
• Crack or chipped tooth
• Trauma causing pulp damage

Choosing to save your tooth with root canal treatment helps you maintain your natural smile and limits the need for ongoing dental work with proper care.

We use the latest reciprocating NiTi file technology - Wave One Gold by Dentsply Sirona. 

Endodontic treatment (root canal) can often be performed in one, two or three visits and involves the dentist:

• removing the infected pulp and nerve in the root of the tooth,
• cleaning, shaping and disinfecting the inside of the root canal,
• filling and sealing the space.

Afterwards, you should place a crown on the tooth to protect and restore it to its original form and function.

You get to keep your tooth for longer avoiding dentures, bridges and implants.

Usually a root canal treated tooth has an increased risk of fracture without the protection of a cusp capped restoration or a cap/crown.  We normally recommended these restorations as soon as the root canal treatment is complete. Common materials chosen are gold, porcelain or a combination of both. Don't forget to brush and floss these teeth like you would any other tooth.

For many patients, getting a root canal is no more painful than getting a cavity filled thanks to the use of local anesthetic and modern endodontic techniques. Most people report feeling comfortable throughout their procedure, feeling a little pressure and movement at times, but not pain. 

Every patient is different. In some cases we are able to extract individual wisdom teeth here in the chair with local anaesthetic and nitrous oxide (if requested). However, if your wisdom teeth have not fully erupted or if you require more than two to be taken out at once, we will generally refer you to a specialist oral surgeon. Please contact us directly for further information.

It’s normal to feel some discomfort and mild pain as the anesthetic wears off.  To help minimize any discomfort, reduce the risk of infection, and promote a speedy recovery we recommend you follow our post-extraction instructions to make sure you avoid any unnecessary complications.  The team will discuss these with you but will also provide you with a written copy as it can be a lot to take in immediately after treatment. The main points to include are:

• Take any painkillers or antibiotics that your dentist has recommended or prescribed.
• Bite down firmly on the gauze pad for 30min to help the blood clot form in the socket and reduce bleeding. If bleeding continues, replace with a fresh moistened gauze pad and bite firmly for an additional 45min-1 hour. If bleeding still continues freely, contact Telopea Park Dental on (02) 6106 9333. 
• Avoid smoking as this can impair healing.
• Avoid drinking alcohol as this can prolong bleeding.
• Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting for 24 hours after the extraction to avoid dislodging the blood clot.  Rinse your mouth with a mouthwash or warm salt water AFTER 24 hours.
• Rest for at least 24 hours and avoid any strenuous activity for the next few days.
• On the day of extraction it is best to eat/drink soft and cool foods.  A soft to normal diet may be eaten on the following day.
• Continue to brush and floss your teeth but avoid the extraction site.

It is quite normal for your mouth to be sore for up to 1 week after your extraction as it takes a few weeks for the new bone and tissue to grow into the gap. Once you’re healed and to avoid your other teeth shifting and causing bite problems we can discuss replacement options (denture, bridge, implant or nothing) to restore the gap for better appearance and function if necessary.

Tooth removal may be necessary if you have:

• An infection
• Advanced or severe gum disease
• Dental caries or decay
• A badly broken down tooth
• Toothache
• Problems with your wisdom teeth
• Orthodontics

Generally no, despite what you may have imagined or heard from others.  

You’ll feel a little pinch as the area is numbed using local anesthetic.  After this, it is usually slight pressure or pulling that can be uncomfortable for some patients, especially if the tooth is infected.  

Don't forget we have Nitrous Oxide which is a great adjunct to local anesthetic in providing additional pain relief and anxiolysis during the procedure.

Some patient may also choose IV sedation with an oral surgeon.