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Patient Info  >>  Our Services  |  Why Pacific Smiles Dental?  |  About Your First Visit  |  Financing Options  |  FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why do I need to have X-Rays taken?

Q2: I don’t like needles, can I have gas for my treatment?

Q3: What is the difference between amalgam and composite fillings?

Q4: When I get my teeth cleaned will they be whiter?

Q5: Why do I need fluoride?

Q6: Why should I use a soft toothbrush?

Q7: Who is the best dentist?

Q8: Do I have to pay if I have private health insurance?

Q9: Does Pacific Smiles Dental offer a payment plan?

Q10: Does Pacific Smiles Dental accept Medicare Teen Dental Vouchers?

Q11: How much are the fees at Pacific Smiles Dental?

Q12: Does Pacific Smiles Dental support The Australian Government’s Chronic Disease Dental Plan (formerly Enhanced Primary Care Scheme)?


Q1: Why do I need to have X-Rays taken?   (TOP)

A1: X-rays allow the dentist to detect problems in areas not visible during visual examination, for example a cavity under an existing filling.


Q2: I don’t like needles, can I have gas for my treatment?   (TOP)

A2: Pacific Smiles Dental Care Centres have a few different ways to make your dental treatment more relaxing. Nitrous Oxide (known as happy gas or laughing gas) is one of the options available at most centres. Your dentist can discuss all available options with you.


Q3: What is the difference between amalgam and composite fillings?   (TOP)

A3: Amalgam is a metal alloy including silver, small amounts of mercury and other metals. Composite is a plastic resin based material. There are many factors to consider when selecting the filling material. Your dentist can discuss with you the most appropriate material for your individual situation.


Q4: When I get my teeth cleaned will they be whiter?   (TOP)

A4: The main benefit of cleaning is healthier gums. During the clean, your dentist will remove most of the surface stains on the teeth, such as cigarette stains. However, the internal colour of teeth would not be changed. You should consider tooth whitening procedures if you want further improvements.


Q5: Why do I need fluoride?   (TOP)

A5: Fluoride strengthens the tooth surface and makes teeth less prone to cavities, especially when applied within 2 years following tooth eruption. Fluoride is a major part of modern preventive dentistry.


Q6: Why should I use a soft toothbrush?   (TOP)

A6: We brush our teeth to keep the teeth and gums clean and healthy. A soft toothbrush works just as well when compared to hard toothbrushes, and without the danger of scrubbing away the surface of the teeth.


Q7: Who is the best dentist?   (TOP)

A7: All of the dentists practising from Pacific Smiles Dental Centres are fully qualified and registered with the Dental Board of Australia, and are able to assist you with your general dental needs. Many have extensive experience in private practice with some having completed post graduate studies in specific areas of interest.


Q8: Do I have to pay if I have private health insurance?   (TOP)

A8: Pacific Smiles Dental has relationships with all of the major health funds which allows private health insurance patients with extras or ancillary cover to gain benefits. Some private health insurance companies even offer ‘no-gap’ dental benefits. Pacific Smiles Dental recommends that patients check with their health funds as to what benefits they are entitled to prior to making an appointment.


Q9: Does Pacific Smiles Dental offer a payment plan?   (TOP)

A9: Mediplan currently offer a payment plan option to Pacific Smiles Dental Care patients. Brochures are available at your local Centre. Or for more details please visit www.mediplan.com.au


Q10: Does Pacific Smiles Dental accept Medicare Teen Dental Vouchers?   (TOP)

A10: The Medicare Teen Dental plan aims to assist families with the cost of annual preventive dental check-ups for teenagers between 12-17 years of age. In 2011 eligible teenagers will receive a $159.85 voucher which can be redeemed at any Pacific Smiles Dental Care Centre. For more information visit www.medicare.gov.au


Q11: How much are the fees at Pacific Smiles Dental?   (TOP)

A11: Dental services at Pacific Smiles Dental Care Centres are provided by independent and employee Practitioners who determine their own fees based on the needs of each patient.


Q12: Does Pacific Smiles Dental support The Australian Government’s Chronic Disease Dental Plan (formerly Enhanced Primary Care Scheme)?   (TOP)

A12: Many of the Dentists at Pacific Smiles Dental Care Centre’s provide treatment under the Chronic Disease Dental Plan (formerly Enhanced Primary Care Scheme). The plan offers eligible patients living with chronic medical conditions and complex care needs dental treatment to the value of $4,250 (over two years). For more information visit www.medicare.gov.au

      Copyright © 2010 Pacific Smiles Group Limited ABN 42 103 087 449.

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