How to Choose a Dentist in Canberra: 7 Important Questions to Ask Before Booking

If you’re looking to find out how to choose a dentist in Canberra, here are the essential things you need to know before going anywhere:

• First, make sure to check that the dentist is registered with the Dental Board of Australia (via AHPRA)
• Find out if the clinic offers the actual services that you’re gonna require, whether that is general care, cosmetic care, or emergency care
• Ensure that you understand every part of the costs, payment plans, and health fund options before undertaking any treatments
• Find reviews from other users of the same practice, focus on one that chooses to prioritise patients’ comfort and safety

1. How can I check if a dentist is properly qualified?

The first thing you need to do when trying to find out how to choose a dentist in Canberra is to confirm that the dentist is both fully qualified and registered.

It is a legal requirement that all practicing dentists in Australia have to be registered with the Dental Board of Australia through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

You can check any practitioner’s registration through the following link: https://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Registers-of-Practitioners.aspx

Each of the accredited practices on the register of practitioners all meet the National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards that are set out by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care.

2. What services should I expect from a dental clinic?

When you’re choosing a dentist, it’s important to consider not just the work that you’ll need now, but also any potential work in the future.

Key services you should ask about:

• General dentistry, like check-ups, fillings, and gum care
• Preventative care, such as cleaning, fluoride, and fissure seals for kids
• Cosmetic dentistry, like teeth whitening or veneers
• Emergency dentistry, for broken teeth and pain relief
• Restorative care, with things like implants, crowns, and bridges

Not every clinic will offer all of these services. If you’re mainly looking for something like cosmetic options or implants, then it’s a good idea to look for a practice that has training and specific experience in those areas of dentistry.

3. How much does it cost to see a dentist in Canberra?

Rising costs have become a major concern for patients in recent years. Dental fees in Australia are not fixed and therefore prices often vary between clinics. 

The Australian Dental Association (ADA) suggests that you ask for a written treatment plan, which includes item numbers, in order to more easily check on rebates with any private health insurance you may have.

Questions you should be asking about dental costs:

• Will you be able to provide a written estimate before treatment?
• Am I able to claim immediately with my health fund?
• Do you offer any sort of payment plans? Are they interest-free?

4. What should I do in the case of a dental emergency?

If you have a toothache, a filling that has broken, or a tooth that has been knocked out, you’ll need urgent attention. When taking the steps in deciding how to choose a dentist in Canberra, it’s a great idea to ask the following questions:

• Can you provide same-day emergency appointments?
• Is the clinic open on evenings or weekends?
• What are the processes you have for urgent care?

5. Will I feel comfortable at this dental practice?

Dental anxiety and fear of the dentist are common problems. Dentists who are patient–focused will listen carefully and understand your needs whilst explaining procedures in plain English, fostering a calm, comfortable environment.

The signs of a clinic that prioritises patient comfort:

• Patience and understanding of an individual’s situation are taken into account when explaining treatment options and costs
• Consent before undergoing any sort of treatment
• Wide range of options for nervous patients, for example, longer appointments, relaxation techniques, or sedation where required

The Australian Government’s Healthdirect service states that effective communication is a cornerstone of safe, professional care that should be followed at all dental practices.

 

6. How safe and modern is the practice?

It should be expected that your clinic has modern technology and follows strict hygiene standards.

Ask the clinic:

• Do you still use digital X-rays or newer techniques?
• How often and how do you sterilise your instruments?
• Do you follow the Australian infection control standards?

All practices in Australia have to comply with guidelines set out by the Dental Board of Australia and the National Health and Medical Research Council.

7. What do other patients of the clinic say?

Reviews are a great way to gain a quick understanding of what you can expect from a clinic. Look at:

• Google and Facebook reviews
• Patient stories that may be published on the clinic’s website

Reviews are not the be-all and end-all; however, it’s less risky to go for a clinic with consistent positive feedback regarding care and communication as opposed to one that has negative reviews.

Final thoughts

When choosing the right dentist, it’s about much more than just location and convenience. It’s about comfort, professionalism, price, and range of treatments, alongside other individual desires. 

In asking the questions above, you will be able to feel much more assured and secure in picking a practice that best suits every one of your individual needs and wants.

If you’re looking for a trusted practice, at My Dentist Canberra, we offer full services, flexible payment plans, emergency availability, as well as a friendly, patient-focused approach every step of the way.