FAQs
Can you help me with a dental emergency?
Yes. In a dental emergency, if you call us during surgery hours, we guarantee one of our dentists will make time to assist you. If you are in pain call reception now on (02) 4932 8366.
Do you have disabled access?
Yes. Access for the disabled and elderly is available from our car park.
Are you good with children?
Yes. All of our dentists have experience treating children and they are welcome in our practice. We help to calm the children down with stories and rhymes so we can do the work that needs to be done, with minimal distress for your child.
Can you treat gum disease?
Yes. In most cases gum disease can be treated successfully. It is best not to delay treatment. Usually the earlier it is addressed the better the outcome. A regular dental check-up will ensure gum disease does not become advanced and difficult to treat.
One of the most effective ways to avoid gum disease is to have regular professional cleaning of teeth where pockets of plaque and other deposits can be removed above and below the gum line.
As gum disease can cause permanent damage it is important to ensure regular monitoring at all times. Prevention is better than having to seek treatment later.
What’s the difference between a bridge, crown or dentures?
Dentures can be removed and replaced at any time. They might replace one tooth, all your teeth, or just some missing teeth. A crown or bridge is fixed and cannot be removed.
A bridge replaces missing teeth using remaining teeth for support. There are different types of dental bridges. We can advise you which of these might best suit your needs.
Why would I need a Dental Crown?
A Dental Crown is used to restore a tooth with large or worn fillings, repair a cracked tooth or a tooth which had had a large cavity, or after root canal treatment. The crown covers and protects the tooth beneath. Crowns can also improve the appearance of teeth in some cases.
Do you do Mini Dental Implants?
Yes. Mini Dental Implants are a good alternative to traditional dental implants because in just one day you can experience a dramatic change with your dentures. Mini dental implants do not require surgery. This non-invasive treatment is less expensive than traditional dental implants. At Rutherford Dental we are experienced in this procedure. Mini Dental Implants could be for you. Don’t put up with ill-fitting, loose dentures.
Call reception now on (02) 4932 8366 to make an appointment to assess your suitability for Mini Dental Implants.
Can a cracked tooth be repaired?
It depends on how the tooth is cracked. If the crack is small enough, it can be filled using material that will hold the tooth together, making it less likely to crack further. It is important to see a dentist as soon as possible when your tooth develops a crack to keep it from getting worse. If a cracked tooth is not treated quickly the tooth may require root canal treatment or the tooth may not be able to be saved and it will have to be removed.
If you are in pain call reception now on (02) 4932 8366.
Should baby teeth have fillings?
Yes, baby teeth should be filled when necessary. Filling will assist with toothache, make eating easier and more comfortable, and importantly, maintain space for the coming adult teeth. It is always a good idea to discuss your child’s dental condition with a dentist who can assist you to make the best decisions for your child’s long term dental health.
What are dental cavities and how can they be avoided?
When bacteria in the mouth combines with food and saliva it forms dental plaque which sticks to the teeth. Plaque causes damage to the tooth surface and holes occur. These holes or cavities can be prevented by regular tooth brushing, limiting sugary foods, and seeing your dentist regularly for a check-up. Check-ups are usually followed by a scale and clean, removing stains, tartar and calculus from your teeth left after normal brushing which, if left unattended, can cause tooth decay, gum disease and bone loss. Teeth are then treated to make them more resistant to decay and sensitivity.
How often should I go to the dentist?
A regular dental check up every six months is advisable as a back-up for your own daily dental hygiene routine.
Call reception now on (02) 4932 8366 to make an appointment.
What is root canal therapy?
Root canal treatment repairs and saves a tooth that may be decayed or infected. The nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form and the tooth could be lost.
If you are in pain call reception now on (02) 4932 8366.
Why are wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth do not need always need to be removed. Sometimes however when the wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to grow problems can arise. Or they may grow at an angle or only partially emerge. Wisdom teeth can even remain completely hidden. If wisdom teeth become impacted because they can’t grow properly, gum disease or infection can result. Whether it’s necessary to remove a wisdom tooth or not isn’t always immediately clear. Rutherford Dental’s experienced dental professionals can assess the position and health of your wisdom teeth and help you decide what’s best for you.
If you are in pain call reception now on (02) 4932 8366. While the dental surgery is open and you are in pain, you will be seen.