Vermont Family Dental

What is a bridge?

A bridge is an appliance permanently fixed in the mouth to replace missing teeth. It uses remaining teeth to support the new artificial tooth or teeth. A conventional fixed bridge consists of crowns that are fixed to the teeth on either side of the missing teeth and false teeth rigidly attached to these crowns. An enamel bonded bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework, to which the artificial teeth are attached, then resin bonded to supporting teeth.

What is cosmetic dentistry?

All general practice dentists use bonding as part of their everyday practice and are trained in and quite skilled at the above procedures. State Dental Boards are responsible for registering dentists and dental specialists and there is no specialist category of "Cosmetic Dentist".

What is a crown?

Dental crowns (also sometimes referred to as "dental caps" or "tooth caps") cover over and encase the tooth on which they are cemented. Dentists use crowns when rebuilding broken or decayed teeth, as a way to strengthen teeth and as method to improve the cosmetic appearance of a tooth. Crowns are made in a dental laboratory by a dental technician who uses moulds of your teeth made by your dentist.

Do I have to pay my dental account on the same day as my treatment?

Dentists as anyone who provides a service, are entitled to determine their own terms. Many dentists expect payment on the day of treatment. This practice reflects the problems dentists have traditionally experienced of lack of payment of accounts, and the widespread availability of payment methods such as credit cards. If you are a new patient to a practice, it is usually expected that you be prepared to pay for the first visit at least, before you are approved for any account facilities.

Should I have my amalgam fillings replaced?

Dentists replace amalgam fillings for a variety of reasons including recurring decay, fracture, endodontic treatment and appearance. If you seek replacement of quite satisfactory amalgam fillings for other reasons, such as a concern about the effects of mercury, you may create problems that otherwise would not have occurred, such as: Possible damage to or weakening of teeth. Sensitivity or pain after the filling. Financial problems.

Is it true that amalgam is dangerous for my baby?

If you already have amalgam fillings, there is no evidence to suggest you or your baby will be harmed because of them. However, general principles of public health during pregnancy suggest that it is prudent to avoid any dental treatment that can be deferred. This includes the removal or placement of amalgam fillings during the pregnancy and during the subsequent period of breastfeeding.

How long will the restored teeth last?

If you look after your teeth and gums, your root canal treated tooth may last a lifetime. However, you must have regular Check Ups to ensure that the tissues around it are nourishing the root of your treated tooth.

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specialises in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities (malocclusion). It generally involves the use of such things as braces, removable appliances, functional appliances or headgear to move the teeth or jaws into an ideal relationship.

What's all the fuss about amalgam fillings?

The World Health Organisation and the International Dental Federation have released a joint statement confirming the safety of dental amalgam as a filling material. The association believes there is no positive gain in having dental amalgam fillings replaced with other materials, other than for aesthetic reasons.

Is there a recommended dental fee scale and how does this relate to health fund rebates?

There is no such thing as a 'recommended fee' for any dental treatment. A dentist charges what he or she thinks is appropriate for the service they provide, taking into account all their costs and the particular circumstances of each treatment. The suggestion that some dentists depart from an 'approved' or 'recommended' level of fees, thereby creating 'gaps' between the fee and the health fund rebates is both false and misleading.