How can we help you?
At Whitsunday Family Dental, we love talking with our patients, whether it's catching up on life changes or discussing their oral health. It is true that we enjoy educating you about your oral health and answering all of your questions. We want you to be armed with the fact so you can make the best decisions for your care.
We have compiled a list of the questions below that we hear most often. If your question is not addressed here, or if you would like further information, never hesitate to give us a call. Our friendly team members are always up for a chat and always passionate about your dental health.
General Information
Whitsunday Family Dental is an independent dental practice. We have not entered into any contractual agreement with any of the private health funds, which is required to offer fixed prices. Being independent means we can spend the right amount of time, use the best materials and provide the treatment that is right for your teeth.
Yes. To ensure your claim can be processed at your appointment, be sure to bring your private health insurance card.
Yes. We offer payment plans through Denticare. Once a treatment plan is decided, we will discuss the payment arrangements and appropriate time frames. Denticare approves the payment plan, and your dental treatment can begin now and be paid off over time.
Depending on the treatment required, costs vary. Our fees are in line with the recommended Schedule of Fees and are determined by many factors: infection control compliance, Practice Accreditation compliance, laboratory charges and fixed overheads.
We recommend a full comprehensive examination with diagnostic x-rays and photos to document and diagnose your oral health condition, including gum health and oral cancer screening. If there is treatment to occur, we provide a full treatment plan with costs. This allows you to make a fully informed decision about your dental treatment and care, and we can discuss alternatives if appropriate.
A comprehensive examination with x-rays and photos will be $185 (before any health fund rebate, if applicable).
If your child is eligible for the Child Dental Benefit Schedule, yes. We will pre-check your child’s eligibility prior to the appointment and the codes required for their appointment. Medicare has rules regarding codes and time frames. If there are any concerns with this, you will be contacted prior to the appointment.
The week before your scheduled appointment, our text message service will send a confirmation text which requires a Yes response or a phone call to the practice to reschedule. Our team is always ready for your call and have open communication with our patients at all times.
Orthodontics
Most people wear braces for 18 months to 3 years, depending on how much movement your teeth need. Your dentist will give you a personalised estimate at your consultation.
Getting braces fitted isn’t painful, but you may feel some pressure or mild soreness for a few days afterwards, especially after adjustments. Soft foods and over-the-counter pain relief usually help.
Steer clear of hard, sticky, or chewy foods — think nuts, popcorn, caramel, chewing gum and ice — as these can damage brackets and wires. Cutting harder fruits and veg into smaller pieces helps too.
Brush after every meal, floss daily using floss threaders or an orthodontic flosser, and consider a water flosser for extra reach around brackets and wires. The team at Whitsunday Family Dental will teach you how to care for your braces and guide you on the best ways to clean your teeth while you are wearing them
You might notice a slight lisp for the first few days as your tongue adjusts, but this typically resolves quickly as you get used to the new hardware.
Absolutely — orthodontic treatment isn’t just for teenagers. Many adults choose braces (or clear aligners) to correct crowding (especially lower front teeth!) It might take a little longer but the results can mean teeth are easier to clean and look really good.
Typically every 4–8 weeks, so your dentist at Whitsunday Family Dental can tighten wires and track your progress.
Braces are fixed to your teeth and work continuously, while aligners are removable trays swapped out every 1–2 weeks. Your dentist can help you decide which suits your case and lifestyle.
Yes — retainers are essential to keep your teeth from shifting back. We encourage you to wear your retainers for as long as want the teeth to stay straight! Most people find wearing them easy, especially while they sleep.
Cost varies depending on the type of braces and complexity of treatment. Book a consultation for a personalised quote and to discuss payment plan options.
General Dentistry
Yes, please. If you are feeling unwell, we will need you to reschedule your appointment. Please call as soon as possible to reschedule and arrange another suitable time. This allows us time to give the appointment to a patient on our waiting list.
For any general appointments, we strive to find a suitable time within 2-3 weeks. Nonetheless, changes in the schedule occur, and we will contact you to bring your appointment forward if suitable.
Dental Emergencies
We do have daily emergency appointments available. We understand that many times your needs are urgent, and we will endeavour to arrange an appointment with the dentist as soon as possible.