Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about our dental services, location, and what to expect at your appointment.
General Dental Care
What is general dentistry?
General dentistry focuses on all aspects of your oral health. It encompasses preventive care such as routine check-ups and professional cleaning, as well as restorative treatments including fillings, extractions, and the management of gum disease. The goal is to maintain your teeth and gums in a healthy condition and to address any problems early, before they become more complex. At our Melbourne CBD practice, Dr Zamani provides comprehensive general dental care for patients of all ages.
How often should I visit the dentist?
We recommend visiting the dentist at least every six months for a routine check-up and professional clean. However, the appropriate interval depends on your individual oral health. Some patients with a history of gum disease, frequent decay, or other risk factors may benefit from more frequent visits. Dr Zamani will recommend a recall schedule tailored to your specific needs after your initial assessment.
What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the appearance of your teeth and smile. It includes treatments such as crowns, bridges, porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, and tooth-coloured (white) fillings. These procedures can address concerns like discolouration, chipped or worn teeth, gaps, and uneven alignment. Dr Zamani will discuss which options may be suitable for your situation and explain what each treatment involves, so you can make an informed decision.
What causes periodontal (gum) disease?
Periodontal disease is an advanced stage of gum disease that affects the tissues supporting your teeth, including the bone. It is primarily caused by the build-up of bacterial plaque along and beneath the gum line. Contributing factors include poor oral hygiene, smoking, certain dietary habits, medical conditions such as diabetes, and some medications that reduce saliva flow. Genetics can also play a role. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and ultimately tooth loss.
How do you treat periodontal disease?
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. In the early stages, professional scaling and root planing (a deep clean below the gum line) can remove plaque and calculus deposits and allow the gum tissue to heal. Dr Zamani may also prescribe antibiotics in certain cases to manage bacterial infection. Improved home care — including correct brushing and flossing technique — is an essential part of treatment. More advanced cases may require referral to a periodontist for specialist management. Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor your gum health over time.
Do you offer emergency treatment?
Yes. Dr Zamani provides her mobile number to patients for urgent dental concerns outside normal appointment times. During practice hours, we keep time available for emergency appointments and aim to see patients with acute issues on the same day wherever possible. If you are experiencing a dental emergency — such as a knocked-out tooth, severe toothache, or a broken restoration — contact the practice as soon as you can so we can arrange prompt care.
Treatments
How will dental implants benefit my smile?
Dental implants provide a permanent replacement for missing teeth. An implant is a small titanium post placed into the jawbone, which acts as an artificial tooth root. Once healed, a crown is attached to the implant, restoring the appearance and function of the missing tooth. Implants can help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Unlike dentures, they do not need to be removed for cleaning, and unlike bridges, they do not require adjacent teeth to be modified. Dr Zamani can assess whether implants are a suitable option for your situation.
Why would I need a root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is required when the blood supply and nerve tissue inside a tooth (the pulp) becomes infected or irreversibly inflamed. This can occur as a result of deep decay, a crack in the tooth, or trauma. Symptoms may include persistent pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or darkening of the tooth. During the procedure, the infected tissue is removed, the root canals are cleaned and shaped, and the tooth is sealed. A crown is usually placed afterwards to protect the tooth. Root canal treatment allows you to keep the natural tooth rather than having it extracted.
What is Invisalign and how does it differ from braces?
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners to gradually move teeth into a more aligned position. Unlike traditional metal braces, the aligners are removable — you take them out to eat, drink, and brush your teeth. They are also less visible, which many adults find appealing. Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of the case. Invisalign is suitable for a range of alignment concerns, though more complex orthodontic issues may still require traditional braces. Dr Zamani can advise whether Invisalign is appropriate for your needs.
How do dental fillings help repair cavities?
When tooth decay creates a cavity, a filling restores the damaged tooth structure. The decayed material is removed and the cavity is cleaned before being filled with a restorative material. At our practice, we primarily use tooth-coloured composite resin fillings, which blend with your natural tooth and provide a durable repair. Fillings prevent further decay from progressing into the deeper structures of the tooth. If a cavity is left untreated, it can grow larger and may eventually require more extensive treatment such as a crown or root canal.
What is involved in a dental cleaning procedure?
A professional dental cleaning involves the removal of plaque and calculus (hardened plaque) from your teeth, particularly in areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush and floss at home. The procedure includes scaling to remove deposits above and below the gum line, followed by polishing to remove surface stains. Dr Zamani will also provide personalised advice on your brushing and flossing technique. Regular professional cleaning helps prevent gum disease, reduces the risk of decay, and keeps your breath fresh.
When and why would I need wisdom tooth removal?
Wisdom teeth (third molars) typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. Removal may be recommended if there is insufficient space for them to come through properly, if they are growing at an angle (impacted), or if they are causing repeated infections, pain, or damage to adjacent teeth. Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed — if they have erupted fully and are easy to clean, they may be left in place. Dr Zamani will assess your wisdom teeth with the help of radiographs and discuss whether removal is advisable in your case.
What should I do in a dental emergency?
If you experience a dental emergency, contact our practice on (03) 9670 9020 as soon as possible. For a knocked-out tooth, keep it moist (in milk or saliva) and see a dentist within 30 minutes if you can. For a broken tooth, rinse your mouth gently and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. For severe toothache, avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum and rinse with warm saltwater. Dr Zamani aims to see emergency patients on the same day during practice hours.
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding is a procedure where a tooth-coloured composite resin material is applied to a tooth and shaped to improve its appearance or repair minor damage. It can be used to fix chipped or cracked teeth, close small gaps, reshape uneven teeth, or cover discolouration. The procedure is typically completed in a single visit and does not usually require anaesthesia. While bonding is less durable than porcelain veneers or crowns, it is a conservative and cost-effective option for minor cosmetic improvements.
Practice & Location
Where is your practice located?
We are located at Level 6/488 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000. The building is opposite the RACV building on Bourke Street, within walking distance of Melbourne's legal precinct. We are easily accessible from Parliament Station (5 min walk), Melbourne Central (7 min walk), Flagstaff Station (8 min walk), and Town Hall Station (10 min walk). For detailed directions, visit our directions page.
What health funds do you accept?
We are an HCF preferred provider and accept all major Australian health funds. We process health fund claims on the spot with HICAPS, so you only need to pay the gap (if any) at the time of your appointment. If you are unsure about your level of cover, we recommend checking with your health fund before your visit, or our team can assist you on the day.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book an appointment by calling us on (03) 9670 9020 during practice hours, or by using our online booking system through HealthEngine at any time. We offer appointments Monday to Thursday from 8:00am to 5:00pm, and Friday from 8:00am to 3:00pm. We do our best to accommodate your preferred time and can often arrange lunchtime or early morning appointments for busy professionals.
Do you see children?
Yes, we welcome children from around age three. Early dental visits help children become familiar with the dental environment and allow Dr Zamani to monitor their dental development. These initial appointments are gentle and age-appropriate, focusing on building a positive experience. We also provide advice for parents on brushing technique, diet, and habits such as thumb sucking. Children who are eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) can access bulk-billed dental care through our practice.
What COVID-safe measures are in place?
Our practice follows all current infection control guidelines as set by the Australian Dental Association and the Victorian Department of Health. This includes rigorous sterilisation of instruments, use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), hand hygiene protocols, and surface disinfection between patients. Our surgery is equipped with high-volume suction and air purification. These measures were standard practice well before the pandemic and continue to be maintained to ensure a safe environment for all patients and staff.
Still Have Questions?
We are happy to answer any questions you may have about your dental care. Contact our Melbourne CBD practice or book an appointment online.