In case of a dental emergency, please call immediately!
KITCHENER STREET DENTAL
General Dentistry
Maintain your oral health for the future.
General Dentistry
General Dental Care Toowoomba
Attending regular dentist appointments will assist in keeping a happy, healthy smile for life.
Comprehensive Examination
What is a comprehensive examination?
At the comprehensive examination, we will review your medical and dental history, complete a neck and head examination, TMJ examination, oral cancer screening, check dental occlusion, periodontal examination, and hard tissue examination and take a series of radiographs. The radiographs are updated every two years.
At this visit we will spend the time to address any of your concerns or treatments you may be interested in. After we have completed this comprehensive examination, we will tailor a treatment plan to suit your needs.
Routine Maintenance Visit
We recommend that you visit us every six months for your routine maintenance visit. At this visit we will complete a full mouth examination, scale and clean and a fluoride application. Radiographs are taken every two years.
Scaling and Cleaning
What to expect at this visit
We do recognise that having your teeth scaled and cleaned can feel a little sensitive. To make this procedure more comfortable we apply a special numbing gel around the teeth and gums prior to cleaning. We then use an EMS scaler to remove calculus from around and between your teeth and under the gum. After this we use a prophylaxis paste to remove any staining from your teeth prior to a fluoride application. Oral hygiene instructions and recommendations on oral care products are also discussed.
Digital Radiographs
There are three types of dental radiographs that are taken to diagnosis dental conditions.
Full Mouth Scan
A panoramic radiograph is a scan of the full mouth that has the ability to detect un-erupted teeth, fractures, cracks, cysts, peri-apical infections, cancers and any pathology in the jawbone. Bone level is evident on this radiograph and can be monitored to ensure no teeth are lost due to lack of support.
Bitewing Radiographs
Bitewing radiographs aid in the diagnosis and detection of decay located between tooth structure. This includes under crowns and bridges. One taken on each side shows upper and lower teeth 4’s – 7’s. These radiographs are taken periodically every two years.
Peri Apical Radiograph
Peri apical radiographs show a full tooth to the apex and its surrounding tissues. It aids in the diagnosis of fractured root, pulp exposure, abscess detection, periodontal disease and calcification of a root. Used throughout a root canal treatment to help detect when the file has reached the apex.
Fissure Sealants
Fissure sealants are a resin material that is placed into the tooth fissures to prevent tooth decay. They can last many years but need to be checked on a regular basis.
Healthy Habits
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I bring my family to Kitchener Street Dental?
You should choose Kitchener Street Dental as your family dentist because we care about our patients and community above all else.
We are committed to providing the highest level of care possible and best interest for each individual patient.
We are also passionate about being active in our community and supporting those in need.
What will my first appointment at Kitchener Street Dental look like?
Your first appointment at Kitchener Street dental will be spent with the dentist undergoing a thorough, comprehensive examination and familiarising ourselves of your dental condition, medical history and your oral health.
We pride ourselves with providing you with the knowledge to make an informed decision of your treatment plan after presenting all possible treatment options.
What will my first appointment at Kitchener Street dental look like?
Your first appointment at Kitchener Street dental will be spent with the dentist undergoing a thorough, comprehensive examination and familiarising ourselves of your dental condition, medical history and your oral health.
We pride ourselves with providing you with the knowledge to make an informed decision of your treatment plan after presenting all possible treatment options.
Can biting nails damage teeth?
Yes, biting teeth can have a negative impact on teeth such as causing chipping and/or erosion. It is best to beat the habit for the sake of your teeth!
Can biting nails effect gum health?
Yes. Biting nails can cause bacteria from your nails to wreak havoc on your gums, causing gum disease. Not only this, but your nails can also scratch your gums.
How can I strengthen weakened teeth?
Including more calcium in your diet can have a positive impact on strengthening your teeth. You can also use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your teeth is they are weakened.
What causes dry socket?
Dry socket occurs when the protective blood clot over the extraction site becomes dislodged or is removed. This can occur in many ways. A common way that this clot is removed by drinking from a straw while your wounds are still recovering. Frequently rinsing and spitting too soon after your procedure can also cause this. Similarly, smokers are also at risk.
How much toothpaste should I use when brushing my teeth?
Large amounts of toothpaste are unnecessary. You only need to use a pea-sized amount in order to have an effective clean.
If I am in oral discomfort, does this mean my health is compromised?
Not necessarily. Though oral health can be a good indicator of your overall health, it is not always a sure-fire sign that you need to make an appointment with your family doctor. Simply make an appointment with your dentist and allow him/her to assess the situation first.
Why do I get mouth ulcers?
There are many reasons for mouth ulcers. One of the common causes is excessive stress. Your dentist will help you to determine the cause behind you if this is a chronic issue you are experiencing.
Why is it important to have a dental check-up?
It is important to attend dental check-ups on a regular basis to help detect and resolve problems related to the wellbeing of your dental health keeping your teeth, mouth and gums healthy.
How often should I have my teeth cleaned?
Generally it is recommended that a dental clean should be done every six months.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gum tissue. It causes weakening and destruction of these tissues which protect and support the teeth and hold them in place.
Can gum disease be controlled?
Yes. With proper oral hygiene and taking the advice of your dentist, you will be able to control gum disease. Regular visits to the oral hygienist may even reverse it!
Is gum disease hereditary?
No. Gum disease occurs due to tartar build-up in the mouth. Preventing gum disease is simply a matter of maintaining good oral hygiene.
Should I see the dentist if I am pregnant?
Yes. If you notify your dentist once you are pregnant, your dentist may be able to adjust certain treatments during this time. Your dentist will also be aware of the risk of morning sickness and thus be able to give you sound advice on taking care of your oral health during this time.
Should I brush my teeth after I have been sick?
Brushing your teeth immediately after a bout of nausea may cause damage to your teeth. Instead, rinse your mouth with water and swish with some mouthwash containing fluoride. Wait a while and then brush your teeth.
What should I do if I am experiencing tooth decay due to nausea?
First things first: you will need to be able to determine the cause of your nausea in order to treat it. Visit your doctor if you are experiencing frequent bouts of nausea. Once you have determined the reason and found a suitable treatment for your nausea, make an appointment to visit your dentist to treat any erosion or decay that might have occurred as a result.
What is a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is an issue that requires immediate dental treatment. Most dental emergencies involve a tooth being knocked out, a severe abscess or infection, ongoing bleeding, or severe pain.
If you have a toothache, have lost a filling, or a chipped tooth with no pain, that is not considered a dental emergency.
What to do in a dental emergency?
When you’re in a dental emergency, contact your regular dentist immediately. We can be reached on (07) 3184 8462.
If you need to control bleeding, rinse with warm water and apply gauze. If you have lost a tooth, recover the tooth by handling the crown, and then preserve it in a container of milk or moist tissue until you get to the dentist.
How do I get an emergency dental appointment at Kitchener Street Dental?
Contact your regular dentist immediately, we can be reached on (07) 3184 8462.
What is a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is a dental incident that requires immediate treatment. Incidents such as uncontrollable bleeding, a knocked-out tooth, and severe pain ARE considered emergencies.
Do you have to pay for dental treatment straight away?
At Kitchener Street Dental in Toowoomba, we have several different payment options including a Denticare payment plan in order to cater for our patients. For more information regarding our payment options, visit our website or contact us directly.
What's it like being sedated at the dentist?
At Kitchener Street Dental, you’ll inhale a gas to help you feel more relaxed and reduce dental anxiety during your procedure. Being sedated at the dentist is a feeling of calmness and drowsiness.
Due to the drowsiness it is mandatory that you are accompanied by a designated driver to your appointment.
How often should I replace my toothbrush?
It's important to replace your toothbrush regularly to maintain good oral hygiene. Over time, the bristles of your toothbrush can become frayed and less effective at removing plaque and debris from your teeth and gums. This can lead to inadequate cleaning and potentially increase the risk of dental issues like cavities and gum disease. Dentists generally recommend replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if you notice the bristles starting to fray. By replacing your toothbrush regularly, you ensure that you're effectively cleaning your teeth and maintaining optimal oral health.
Can I use mouthwash as a substitute for brushing and flossing?
While mouthwash can be a valuable addition to your oral hygiene routine, it's not a replacement for brushing and flossing. Brushing and flossing are essential for physically removing plaque, food particles, and bacteria from the surfaces of your teeth and in between them. Mouthwash, on the other hand, primarily freshens breath and can help kill bacteria in areas of the mouth that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or floss. While some mouthwashes contain antibacterial ingredients that can contribute to oral health, they don't provide the same level of cleaning as brushing and flossing. Therefore, it's important to continue brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily, even if you use mouthwash as part of your oral care routine.
Is it normal to experience bleeding gums when brushing or flossing?
Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing can sometimes occur due to factors like aggressive oral hygiene practices or the introduction of a new oral care routine. However, consistent or excessive bleeding may indicate an underlying gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis. These conditions are characterised by inflammation and infection of the gums, often resulting from the buildup of plaque and tartar along the gumline. It's crucial to consult with your dentist if you experience persistent bleeding gums to identify the root cause and receive appropriate treatment. Your dentist can recommend personalised oral hygiene strategies, professional dental cleanings, and, if necessary, periodontal therapy to address gum disease and restore gum health. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and maintain optimal oral health in the long term.
Get in touch
Speak to the team at Kitchener Street Dental to book in for an appointment.