Frequently Asked Questions
What is the benefit of seeing an independent dentist versus a health fund preferred provider?
Unlike a health fund preferred dentist providing services stipulated in the insurance policies with their own commercial interests by looking after the particular health fund members, an independent dentist can offer all treatment options in the best interest of the patient without being restricted by the contract terms and conditions dictated by a particular health fund. Being an independent dentist also allows the dentists to continue applying their special skill sets and delivering quality dental care and service by developing a better rapport with their patients, knowing their dental history, their preferences in order to provide the best advice at every stage in life.
Is the quality of an independent dentist better than a preferred provider?
All qualified dentists registered with the Dental Board of Australia are expected to deliver health services within an ethical framework. However, an independent dentist normally can allocate more quality time to provide better care and service by helping the patients to understand their options in more detail and to make decisions in their best interests.
Do I need a referral?
Referral is not required to make an appointment at Chats Dental. Simply book online or call (02) 8065 1080 to make an appointment.
Do you have emergency hours?
Chats Dental does not have emergency hours however, we always try our best to fit an emergency appointment into our busy schedule to help people in need. Please contact us immediately to enquire about an emergency appointment.
Do you offer HICAPS?
Yes, we do. For the convenience of our valued clients, we provide HICAPS on-the-spot service to save you time from your busy schedule.
What can I expect on my first visit?
Here at Chats Dental we take pride in making your experience the best it can be from the moment you walk through our door. Before one of our dental assistants bring you into the treatment room, you will need to fill out a New Patient form shown to you by one of our receptionists. After this is completed, you will be in the safe hands of our highly experienced dentists and dental assistants for the care you need.
What should I bring to my dental appointment?
If your health fund covers some dental services, remember to bring your health fund card so we are able to process the invoice with HICAPS on-the-spotservice for you.
Do you participate in CDBS (Child Dental Benefits Schedule)?
Yes, we do, provided that your child is eligible. To check eligibility please call Medicare on 132150 or check online at www.medicareaustralia.gov.au/hpos
What are your fees?
Price is what you pay, value is what you get. At Chats Dental we believe in our high-quality work that makes us stand out by providing good care and service on value, not price.
Do I have to pay on the day?
Yes, all accounts must be settled on the day for the treatment(s) provided. All gap payments must be paid in full on the day of the treatment(s) provided.
How can I afford dental work?
Preventive care is always better than cure. Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and early dental treatments are the best to avoid expensive and more complicated dental work when dental problems are overlooked.
Do you offer any payment plan?
How long are the appointments?
Check-up and clean is 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Fillings are 1 to 1.5 hours
Will it hurt?
All of our highly trained and experienced dentists are extremely gentle, we guarantee you will be in safe hands with very minimal to no pain at all.
How often should I visit the dentist?
It is recommended that dental visits should happen every 6 months, however, some patients may need to visit as frequently as every 3 months.
When should my child first see a dentist?
It is recommended that a child’s first visit to the dentist be within 6 months after their first tooth has erupted! Although it may seem early, it is important for your child to establish good oral hygiene and get familiar with the dentist’s environment from a young age.
If I take good care of my teeth at home, do I still need to visit a dentist twice a year?
Yes. Sometimes it can be hard to reach all the tooth surfaces and give them a good clean by yourself at home. Dentists are able to assist you for a good scale and clean at your routine dental check-up and can help to identify any problems that you can’t see or may not be aware of before causing any pain. It is highly recommended not to overlook many dental problems that are only felt when it has reached its advanced stages.
How is the cleaning done at the dental office different from what I do at home?
The tooth comes in different forms and sizes. Their various positions make a thorough clean impossible all by yourself. Over time, plaque and debris left-overs can be calcified and become tartar which can not be removed by simply brushing your teeth at home. Experienced and well-trained dentists use special instruments to help clean your teeth in the safest way to enjoy a healthy smile for a lifetime.
How can I reduce the risk of tooth decay
Your oral hygiene is extremely important to take care of every single day. Starting as easy as brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day can reduce the risk of tooth decay, bad breath and other consequences of bad oral hygiene.
Why do I need X-rays?
Visual examinations can’t always tell the dentist everything they need to know to provide the best dental care for their patients. Therefore, X-rays are important for your dentist to examine your oral health and locate if there are any cavities, tooth decay and impacted teeth present before they become serious.