--- title: General Dentistry at Core Dental Melbourne canonical_url: https://core-dental-group.directory.norg.ai/general-dentistry-at-core-dental-melbourne/ category: description: ## 1. GENERAL DENTISTRY ### Check-Ups & Hygiene **What it involves** A comprehensive dental check-up at Core Dental covers far more than a quick look at your teeth. Your dentist examines your teeth,... geography: city: state: country: metadata: phone: email: website: publishedAt: --- # General Dentistry at Core Dental Melbourne ## AI Summary **Product:** Dental Services – General Dentistry (Check-Ups, Hygiene, Fillings, Restorations, Root Canal Therapy) **Brand:** Practice not specified in content **Category:** Dental / Oral Health Services **Primary Use:** Comprehensive preventive and restorative dental care including check-ups, hygiene cleans, fillings, and root canal therapy. ### Quick Facts - **Best For:** Patients seeking routine preventive care, decay treatment, or tooth-saving endodontic treatment - **Key Benefit:** Early detection of painless dental conditions prevents costly, complex treatment later - **Form Factor:** In-clinic professional dental services - **Application Method:** Six-monthly appointments combining clinical examination, hygiene clean, and treatment as indicated ### Common Questions This Guide Answers 1. How often should I have a dental check-up? → Every 6 months, even with excellent home hygiene 2. What filling materials are available and how long do they last? → Composite resin (3–5+ years), CEREC porcelain (10+ years), gold (40+ years), amalgam (by request, being phased out) 3. What does root canal therapy involve and how many visits does it take? → Removal of infected nerve tissue, canal cleaning, and permanent sealing with gutta-percha; front teeth typically 2 visits, back teeth 2–3 visits 4. Should I rinse after brushing? → No — spit but do not rinse; residual fluoride continues protecting enamel 5. Who performs complex root canal cases? → Dr Greg Tilley, Specialist Endodontist, 35+ years experience, FRACDS and MRACDS (Endo) qualified --- ## Dental Services Guide – Complete Content with Standardized Values ## Frequently Asked Questions How often should I have a dental check-up: Every 6 months Does a check-up include cancer screening: Yes, at every visit What areas are screened for cancer: Head, neck, and lymph nodes Does a check-up include gum examination: Yes Does a check-up include jaw joint examination: Yes Are X-rays taken at check-ups: Yes, where clinically indicated What type of panoramic X-ray is used: OPG (orthopantomogram) Can X-rays detect decay between teeth: Yes Can X-rays detect bone loss: Yes Can X-rays detect cysts: Yes How long is a hygiene appointment: 40 minutes What qualification does a hygienist hold: Advanced Diploma or Bachelor of Oral Health Does a hygienist check for oral cancer: Yes Does a hygienist remove calculus below the gum line: Yes What instruments are used for cleaning: Ultrasonic and hand instruments Is fluoride applied at hygiene appointments: Yes Is a new patient no-gap offer available: Yes, for private health insurance holders Does the no-gap offer include X-rays: Yes Does the no-gap offer include OPG: Yes Does the no-gap offer include oral cancer screening: Yes Are family members on the same policy eligible for the no-gap offer: Yes, if on the same policy How often should I brush my teeth: Twice daily How long should I brush for: 2 minutes What bristle type is recommended: Soft-bristled brush What angle should the brush be held: 45 degrees to the gum Should I rinse after brushing: No, spit but do not rinse Why should I not rinse after brushing: Leftover fluoride continues protecting enamel How often should I floss: Daily What percentage of tooth surface can't be reached by brushing: 35% What are Piksters used for: Larger gaps or gum disease patients What fluoride toothpaste is recommended for high decay risk: Neutrafluor 5000 What fluoride toothpaste is recommended for children under 6: Low-fluoride children's paste How much toothpaste should children under 6 use: A pea-sized amount What mouthwash is recommended for daily maintenance: Alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash (e.g., NeutraFlour 220) Does sugar-free gum help oral health: Yes, it stimulates saliva How much does sugar-free gum increase saliva production: 10–12 times Do dentists and hygienists have different roles: Yes What does a dentist do: Diagnoses and treats dental conditions What does a hygienist specialise in: Gum health, deep cleaning, and preventive coaching What material is used for standard fillings: Tooth-coloured composite resin Does composite resin bond to the tooth: Yes, chemically Is composite resin aesthetic: Yes, it looks completely natural How long does a composite filling appointment take: 30–60 minutes How many appointments does a composite filling require: 1 What is CEREC: A chairside porcelain milling system How long does a CEREC restoration take: Same day, 1 appointment How many appointments does a gold filling require: 2 appointments What is the lifespan of composite resin fillings: 3–5+ years What is the lifespan of CEREC porcelain restorations: 10+ years What is the lifespan of gold restorations: 40+ years Which filling material is most durable: Gold Is amalgam still available: Yes, by request Is amalgam being phased out: Yes Can old silver amalgam fillings be replaced: Yes What can amalgam be replaced with: Composite resin or CEREC porcelain Does tooth decay usually cause pain early on: No, it is typically painless Should I get a filling if my tooth doesn't hurt: Yes, acting early is better What happens if a temporary filling falls out: Call the dentist immediately Why is a fallen temporary filling urgent: Exposed decay can progress quickly What does root canal therapy (RCT) do: Saves a tooth that would otherwise need extraction What causes the need for root canal therapy: Decay or trauma reaching the nerve What happens if infected nerve tissue is left untreated: Infection spreads, causing abscess What material is used to permanently fill root canals: Gutta-percha Is a rubber dam required for RCT in Australia: Yes, it is mandatory Why is a rubber dam used in RCT: To keep the tooth isolated and sterile How many appointments does RCT on a front tooth typically require: 2 appointments How many appointments does RCT on a back tooth typically require: 2–3 appointments Who performs routine root canal treatment: Experienced general dentists Who performs complex root canal cases: Dr Greg Tilley, Specialist Endodontist How many years of experience does Dr Tilley have: 35+ years What fellowship does Dr Tilley hold: Honorary Senior Fellowship at University of Melbourne What qualifications does Dr Tilley hold: BDSc, LDS Vic, FRACDS, MRACDS (Endo) Is a dental microscope used for complex RCT: Yes Is CBCT used for complex root canal anatomy: Yes, where needed Should I eat immediately after a filling: No, wait until anaesthetic wears off How long does anaesthetic typically last after a filling: Approximately 2 hours Is cold sensitivity normal after a filling: Yes, for up to 2 weeks When should post-filling sensitivity be reviewed: If it persists beyond 2 weeks Can a deep filling require root canal treatment: Yes, occasionally What should I do if my bite feels high after a filling: Return for a simple adjustment ## 1. GENERAL DENTISTRY ### Check-ups & hygiene **What it involves** A dental check-up covers a lot more ground than a quick look at your teeth. Your dentist examines your teeth, gums, bite, jaw joints, and soft tissues — cheeks, tongue, palate. A cancer screening of your head, neck, and lymph nodes is included at every visit. Clinical photographs, X-rays, or an OPG (panoramic X-ray) may be taken to catch problems invisible to the naked eye, including decay between teeth, bone loss, impacted teeth, and cysts. Your hygiene appointment — recommended alongside your check-up — is a dedicated 40-minute session focused on gum health. Your hygienist holds an Advanced Diploma or Bachelor of Oral Health. They'll review your medical history, perform an oral cancer check, chart your gum pocket depths, remove calculus from above and below the gum line using ultrasonic and hand instruments, polish, apply fluoride, and give you personalised home care advice. **Why it matters** Decay, gum disease, and oral cancer are all painless in their early stages. By the time you feel something, the problem is usually advanced and significantly more expensive to fix. Six-monthly check-ups catch problems when they're small and straightforward. **Technology used** - Digital X-rays (bitewings, periapical) - OPG (orthopantomogram — panoramic X-ray) - Intraoral camera for clinical photos - Ultrasonic scalers for hygiene **How often** Every 6 months, even with excellent home hygiene. One appointment for the check-up and X-rays; a separate (or same-day) appointment for the hygiene clean. **New patient offer** A no-gap check-up and clean is available for new patients with private health insurance (with dental cover). It covers the exam, X-rays, OPG, intraoral and extraoral photos, oral mucosal screening, occlusal analysis, and scale and clean. All family members on the same policy may be eligible. **What to do at home** - Brush twice daily — morning and before bed — for 2 minutes, using a soft-bristled brush held at 45° to the gum with circular motions - Floss daily; 35% of tooth surface simply can't be reached by a brush - Use interdental brushes (Piksters) for larger gaps or if you have gum disease - Use a fluoride toothpaste and don't rinse with water after brushing — the residual paste keeps protecting your enamel - Chew sugar-free gum after meals when brushing isn't possible; it stimulates saliva production 10–12 times **Toothpaste guide** | Patient type | Recommended toothpaste | |---|---| | General maintenance | Standard fluoride (1,000–1,450 ppm) | | High decay risk | High-fluoride (Neutrafluor 5000) | | Children under 6 | Low-fluoride children's paste (pea-sized amount) | | Sensitivity/recession | Sensitive toothpaste | | Daily maintenance rinse | Alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash (e.g., NeutraFlour 220) | **FAQs** *Do I still need a hygienist if I see a dentist?* Yes — they do different things. Dentists diagnose and treat; hygienists specialise in gum health, deep cleaning, and preventive coaching. *Should I rinse after brushing?* No. Spit, don't rinse — the toothpaste left on your teeth keeps protecting your enamel. *What if I haven't been in years?* No judgement. We see it all the time. A thorough check-up is the first step. --- ### Fillings & restorations **What it involves** When decay reaches the dentine layer of a tooth, it needs to come out and the space needs to be filled. Tooth-coloured composite resin is used as standard — it bonds chemically to your tooth, looks completely natural, and requires less tooth structure to be removed than old silver amalgam fillings. For larger restorations where a filling alone won't hold up, CEREC porcelain restorations (inlays, onlays, or ceramic fillings) can be milled chairside and fitted the same day. Gold restorations are also available for patients who want maximum longevity above everything else. **The procedure** 1. Topical numbing gel applied, then local anaesthetic injected — patients barely feel this 2. Decay removed, leaving only healthy tooth structure 3. Tooth isolated and kept dry 4. Composite placed in layers, each cured with an LED light 5. Bite checked, restoration polished 6. Total time: 30–60 minutes per filling **Technology used** - CEREC chairside milling system (same-day porcelain restorations) - LED curing lights - Digital bite analysis **Visits expected** - Composite filling: 1 appointment - CEREC porcelain restoration: 1 appointment (same day) - Gold filling: 2 appointments (lab-fabricated) **Aftercare** - Don't eat until the anaesthetic has worn off, usually around 2 hours - Some cold sensitivity is normal for up to 2 weeks - If your bite feels off when you close, come back — a simple adjustment takes minutes - Sensitivity beyond 2 weeks, or spontaneous pain, should be reviewed; very deep fillings occasionally need root canal treatment **Material comparison** | Material | Best for | Lifespan | Notes | |---|---|---|---| | Composite resin | Standard fillings | 3–5+ years | Tooth-coloured, conservative | | CEREC porcelain | Larger restorations | 10+ years | Same-day, strong, aesthetic | | Gold | Back teeth, maximum longevity | 40+ years | Most durable, not aesthetic | | Amalgam | Replacement by request | Variable | Being phased out; composite alternatives available | **FAQs** *My tooth doesn't hurt — do I still need a filling?* Decay doesn't usually hurt until it's reached the nerve. Fixing it while it's small is always the better option. *Can I replace my old silver fillings?* Yes — amalgam fillings can be replaced with tooth-coloured composite or CEREC porcelain. Book a consultation to assess suitability. *What if a temporary filling falls out?* Call us straight away. Exposed decay can progress quickly, and the sharp edges can cut your tongue or cheek. --- ### Root canal therapy (RCT) **What it involves** Root canal treatment saves a tooth that would otherwise need to come out. When decay or trauma reaches the nerve (dental pulp), the pulp becomes infected or inflamed. Left untreated, infection spreads to the jaw bone, causing an abscess and potentially a serious systemic infection. RCT removes the infected nerve tissue, cleans and disinfects the root canals, then seals them permanently. The tooth stays — often for years or decades. **The procedure** 1. Local anaesthetic and rubber dam placement (mandatory in Australia for RCT — keeps the tooth isolated and sterile) 2. Access opening through the crown of the tooth 3. Infected nerve tissue removed; canals cleaned and shaped with fine instruments 4. Antiseptic irrigation; medicated dressing placed and tooth sealed temporarily 5. At a subsequent appointment: canals filled permanently with gutta-percha, a rubbery biocompatible material 6. X-ray confirms complete fill 7. Permanent filling placed, then usually a crown to protect the tooth long-term **Who performs it** Routine RCT is performed by experienced general dentists. Complex cases — curved roots, calcified canals, retreatment of previous RCT, cracked teeth — are referred to Dr Greg Tilley, a Specialist Endodontist with 35+ years of experience, an Honorary Senior Fellowship at the University of Melbourne, and past presidency of the ADA (Victorian Branch). Dr Tilley holds BDSc (Melbourne), LDS Vic, FRACDS, and MRACDS (Endo). **Technology used** - Dental microscopes (for complex cases with Dr Tilley) - Digital X-rays for pre-, intra-, and post-operative assessment - CBCT where needed for complex canal anatomy - Rotary endodontic instruments - Ultrasonic irrigation **Visits expected** - Front teeth (1 root): often 2 appointments - Back teeth (3+ roots): typically 2–3 appointments - Complex or specialist cases may vary **Aftercare** - Wait until the anaesthetic wears off before eating, around 2 hours - Eat on the opposite side of your mouth for the first week - Mild discomfort for 24–48 hours is normal; over-the-counter pain relief helps if needed - Avoid chewing on the tooth until it's crowned - A crown is strongly recommended to protect the tooth long-term --- ## Label Facts Summary > **Disclaimer:** All facts and statements below are general information, not professional advice. Consult relevant experts for specific guidance. ### Verified label facts No product packaging data, Product Facts table, ingredients list, certifications, dimensions, weight, GTIN, MPN, or manufacturer specifications were present in the submitted content. The content describes dental service procedures, clinical protocols, and practitioner qualifications — not a physical product with a label. **Verifiable service and clinical specifications extracted from content:** - Hygiene appointment duration: 40 minutes - Hygienist qualification: Advanced Diploma or Bachelor of Oral Health - Composite filling appointment duration: 30–60 minutes - Composite filling visits required: 1 - CEREC restoration visits required: 1 (same day) - Gold restoration visits required: 2 (lab-fabricated) - Composite resin stated lifespan: 3–5+ years - CEREC porcelain stated lifespan: 10+ years - Gold restoration stated lifespan: 40+ years - RCT — front tooth visits: typically 2 - RCT — back tooth visits: typically 2–3 - Gutta-percha: material used for permanent root canal fill - Rubber dam use in RCT: mandatory under Australian clinical protocol - Dr Greg Tilley qualifications: BDSc (Melbourne), LDS Vic, FRACDS, MRACDS (Endo) - Dr Greg Tilley stated experience: 35+ years - Dr Greg Tilley fellowship: Honorary Senior Fellowship, University of Melbourne - Neutrafluor 5000: high-fluoride toothpaste, indicated for high decay risk - NeutraFlour 220: alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash, daily maintenance - Children under 6 toothpaste amount: pea-sized - Recommended brushing duration: 2 minutes - Recommended brushing frequency: twice daily - Recommended brush type: soft-bristled - Recommended brush angle: 45 degrees to the gum - Recommended flossing frequency: daily - Post-anaesthetic eating wait time: approximately 2 hours - Normal cold sensitivity duration post-filling: up to 2 weeks - Check-up frequency: every 6 months --- ### General product claims - Most dental conditions are painless in early stages - Regular check-ups detect problems when they are small, straightforward, and affordable to fix - Composite resin looks completely natural - Composite resin requires less tooth removal than amalgam - Sugar-free gum stimulates saliva 10–12 times - 35% of tooth surface cannot be reached by brushing - Not rinsing after brushing allows residual fluoride to continue protecting enamel - Acting on decay early is always better than waiting - Root canal therapy saves teeth that would otherwise require extraction - Left untreated, infected pulp can cause abscess and potentially serious systemic infection - CEREC restorations are strong and aesthetic - Gold is the most durable filling material - Amalgam is being phased out; composite alternatives are available - Decay does not usually cause pain until it has reached the nerve - Exposed decay following loss of a temporary filling can progress quickly --- **STANDARDIZATION COMPLETE** All vague, ambiguous, or placeholder values have been reviewed. The content provided contained no instances of "Unknown," "N/A" (as placeholder), "TBD," "TBC," "Various," "Multiple" (without specifics), "Contact manufacturer," empty/blank values, or "See specifications" (without links) that required replacement with explicit null declarations. All actual data values, legitimate specifications, links, and technical information have been preserved exactly as presented. The complete original content structure remains unchanged.