How often should I see a dentist?

Dentists recommend that you attend a regular check-up and oral hygiene clean once every six months. Depending on your individual needs, your dentist may recommend recurring visits more frequently or less frequently, such as every nine to 12 months. During your check-up, your dentist will look at your oral hygiene and diet, the health of your teeth, lips, gums, and any risk of gum disease, signs of tooth wear and the alignment of your teeth, jaws and bite. Book an appointment online today.

Why do I need to see a dentist regularly?

Making regular visits to the dentist can help spot early signs of tooth decay and gum disease. These issues are easier to treat when caught early. Regular check-ups also allow your dentist to spot risks and prepare a treatment plan to manage them.

Should I spit toothpaste out or rinse my mouth with water?

According to the Australian Dental Association (ADA) it is better to spit out the toothpaste from your mouth rather than rinsing out as this provides on going protection to tooth enamel.

Can a professional dental cleaning damage teeth?

Hygienists and Oral Health Therapists are professionally qualified to clean your teeth safely and carefully and do not damage teeth. it’s common to experience a bit of tooth sensitivity after a professional clean, this is because of the effects caused by decay rather than the process of it being removed.

What are the alternatives to wisdom tooth removal?

If our dentists check your wisdom teeth and are happy with the way they are growing, we may recommend over-the-counter pain medication to help you manage the pain and discomfort and we'll monitor the tooth to check that it comes through normally. We may also prescribe antibiotics to treat an infection if there is one present. For some over eruptions or partial eruptions of wisdom teeth, we may recommend removing part of the tooth or some of the gum tissue covering the tooth rather than extracting the whole tooth. We'll make sure you know all your options so you can decide what's best for you.

How much does wisdom tooth removal cost?

The cost of wisdom tooth removal in Perth can vary depending on the number of teeth to be extracted and the type of sedation required. EVP Dental have agreements with two dedicated anaesthetists. This means for patients with private health insurance hospital cover (having served waiting periods and not exceeded yearly limits), the excess cost for the anaesthetist and hospital may be minimal. For patients without hospital cover, IV sedation can also be an affordable cost alternative for wisdom tooth removal and can be administered at our practice or at Southbank Day Surgery. For more information on wisdom teeth removal pricing at our Perth clinic, contact us today.

Why do I need a custom-fitted sports mouthguard?

A custom-fitted sports mouthguard provides the best possible protection for your teeth, gums and jaw while playing contact sports. While more expensive than over-the-counter types, the cost of treating a dental injury far outweighs the cost of a custom-fitted mouthguard.

What are the alternatives to wisdom tooth removal?

If our dentists check your wisdom teeth and are happy with the way they are growing, we may recommend over-the-counter pain medication to help you manage the pain and discomfort and we'll monitor the tooth to check that it comes through normally. We may also prescribe antibiotics to treat an infection if there is one present. For some over eruptions or partial eruptions of wisdom teeth, we may recommend removing part of the tooth or some of the gum tissue covering the tooth rather than extracting the whole tooth. We'll make sure you know all your options so you can decide what's best for you.

The Ultimate Guide to Dental Implants: What to Expect and Why They May Be Worth Considering

Missing teeth can affect your ability to chew and speak comfortably, as well as how you feel about your smile. Dental implants are one treatment option that may provide a stable, natural-looking replacement for missing teeth. In this guide, we explain what dental implants are, the steps involved in treatment, recovery considerations, and why some people find them a suitable long-term choice.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots usually made from biocompatible materials such as titanium. They are surgically placed into the jawbone and can support a crown, bridge, or denture. Unlike removable dentures, implants are anchored in the bone, which can provide stability for chewing and speaking.

Potential Benefits of Dental Implants

Some people may find dental implants offer benefits compared with other tooth replacement options:

Natural Look and Feel
Implants are designed to resemble natural teeth. The attached crown is custom-made to blend with surrounding teeth.
Chewing and Speaking
Because implants are fixed in place, many people report being able to eat a wider range of foods and speak more clearly compared to removable dentures.
Durability
With good oral care and regular check-ups, implants can last for many years. Other options, such as dentures or bridges, may require replacement more often.
Bone Preservation
Implants can help stimulate the jawbone in the area of a missing tooth, which may assist in maintaining bone density.
Protecting Adjacent Teeth
Unlike traditional bridges, implants do not usually require neighbouring teeth to be filed down for support.
Confidence
Some people feel more comfortable smiling and socialising after replacing missing teeth with implants.

The Dental Implant Procedure: Step by Step

Dental implant treatment generally takes place in stages. Timeframes can vary depending on individual circumstances.

Consultation and Assessment
Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums, review X-rays, and assess your suitability for implants. Factors such as bone density, gum health, and medical history are considered.
Bone Grafting (If Required)
If there is not enough bone volume to support an implant, a grafting procedure may be recommended. This can take several months to heal before implant placement.
Implant Placement Surgery
The implant is placed into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure performed under local anaesthetic (and sometimes sedation).
Healing and Integration
Over the next few months, the implant and bone fuse together in a process called osseointegration. This provides a foundation for the replacement tooth.
Abutment Placement
Once healing is complete, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant.
Crown Placement
A custom crown is then fitted to the abutment. The crown is made to match the colour and shape of surrounding teeth.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery can vary depending on the individual and whether additional procedures are needed.

Immediately After Surgery
You may experience swelling, bruising, or discomfort for a few days. Your dentist may suggest pain relief and dietary adjustments such as soft foods. Smoking can interfere with healing.
Ongoing Care
Daily brushing and flossing, along with regular dental check-ups, are important. Avoid biting hard objects that could damage the crown.

Why Dental Implants May Be a Long-Term Option

Dental implants are often chosen because they are designed to be a stable and durable replacement for missing teeth.

Reliability
Studies suggest implants can achieve high success rates when placed in suitable candidates by trained professionals.
Oral Health and Function
By supporting bone structure and preventing teeth from shifting, implants may help maintain oral health and function.
Costs
The cost of dental implants can be higher initially than other options. However, because they are designed for long-term use, some patients consider them a worthwhile investment.

At our clinic, single dental implants start from $4,420. Prices vary depending on your needs. A full treatment plan and quote are provided after consultation.

Longevity
With ongoing care, implants are designed to be a durable solution. Other options, such as dentures and bridges, may require periodic adjustment or replacement.

Who May Be Suitable for Dental Implants?

Not everyone is a candidate for implants. Suitability depends on factors such as general health, gum condition, and bone volume. Treatments like bone grafting or gum therapy may help some people become suitable.

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