At Cairns Dental Boutique, we love helping our patients feel confident about their smiles and their dental care. Here are some of the most common questions we hear from our Cairns community, along with simple and honest answers from our friendly team.
🌿 General Dental Care
- How often should I visit the dentist for a check-up and clean?
We recommend visiting every six months for a check-up and professional clean. Regular preventive dental visits help us spot small issues before they become big problems — saving you time, discomfort, and cost later. If you have gum issues, diabetes, or a higher risk of decay, we may suggest more frequent visits.
- What can I do at home to keep my teeth healthy?
Brush twice a day for two minutes using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and don’t forget to floss daily. Try to limit sugary snacks and drinks, and drink plenty of Cairns tap water — however, please note that Cairns water is NOT fluoridated, so consistent use of fluoride toothpaste is key for your teeth! A balanced diet and good hydration go a long way toward keeping your mouth healthy.
- My gums bleed when I brush — should I be worried?
Bleeding gums are often an early sign of gum disease (gingivitis), usually caused by plaque build-up. Don’t ignore it — book a check-up so we can assess your gums and give you a thorough clean. With regular hygiene care and proper brushing, gum health usually improves quickly.
- Why do my teeth feel sensitive?
Tooth sensitivity can happen for many reasons — worn enamel, exposed roots, gum recession, or cavities. If you feel discomfort with hot, cold, or sweet foods, visit us for an assessment. We’ll find the cause and recommend gentle treatment options, like desensitising toothpaste or protective coatings.
- What counts as a dental emergency?
If you have severe tooth pain, swelling, trauma, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken filling or crown, that’s a dental emergency. Call Cairns Dental Boutique straight away — we keep time available each day for urgent care, so you can get relief as soon as possible.
✨ Cosmetic Dentistry & Smile Makeovers
- Is teeth whitening safe?
Yes — when done professionally! At Cairns Dental Boutique, we use high-quality, dentist-approved whitening systems that safely lift stains and brighten your smile without harming enamel. Store-bought kits can be unpredictable, so we always recommend professional teeth whitening for reliable and even results.
- What’s the difference between veneers and bonding?
Veneers are thin, custom porcelain shells that cover the front of your teeth for a beautifully even, natural look. Bonding uses tooth-coloured resin to repair chips or gaps. Veneers last longer and resist staining better, while bonding is quicker and more affordable — we’ll help you decide what’s best for your smile goals.
- Can missing teeth be replaced?
Absolutely! Dental implants, bridges, or dentures can restore your smile, improve chewing, and prevent bone loss. At Cairns Dental Boutique, we’ll explain all your options for missing teeth — from single-tooth implants to full arch restorations — so you can choose what fits your needs and lifestyle.
- Are cosmetic treatments just for appearance, or do they help function too?
Many cosmetic treatments also improve bite alignment, speech, and comfort. For example, replacing missing teeth restores chewing efficiency, and aligning teeth can make them easier to clean — improving your long-term oral health.
🧒 Kids & Family Dentistry
- When should my child first see a dentist?
We recommend bringing your child for their first visit by age one, or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Early visits help kids feel comfortable in the dental chair and allow us to catch any early developmental issues in a gentle, fun way.
- How can I help my child feel less anxious about visiting the dentist?
Start with positive talk — avoid words like “pain” or “needle,” and make it sound like an adventure! You’re welcome to bring your child in for a “happy visit” to meet the team and explore the chair. Our caring dentists take their time to make sure little ones feel safe and relaxed.
- What’s the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?
The CDBS is a government program that provides eligible families up to $1,095 over two years for basic dental services for children aged 0–17. Cairns Dental Boutique proudly accepts CDBS — we can check your child’s eligibility in-practice or over the phone.
⚡ Restorative & Preventive Treatments
- Do I really need X-rays at my check-up?
Dental x-rays help us see what the eye can’t — small cavities, infections, or bone changes. They’re safe and quick, and we only take them when necessary. This helps us detect problems early and plan treatment before pain or damage occurs.
- Why do I need fillings if my teeth don’t hurt?
Decay often starts pain-free and can progress quickly once it reaches the inner layers of your tooth. Treating it early with a small filling prevents deeper infection or the need for a root canal later. Regular check-ups are the best way to catch decay before it causes trouble.
- What if I grind my teeth at night?
Teeth grinding (bruxism) is quite common and often linked to stress or sleep issues. It can cause jaw pain, headaches, and worn enamel. We can fit a custom night guard to protect your teeth and discuss relaxation or bite-balance options to ease symptoms.
💰 Costs, Insurance & Payment Options
- How much will my dental treatment cost?
Costs depend on the type and complexity of your treatment, but we always provide an itemised quote before starting. At Cairns Dental Boutique, we’re transparent about pricing and offer flexible payment options — including Afterpay, Humm, and Zip — to make quality care accessible for everyone.
- Does private health insurance cover dental treatment?
Most health funds offer rebates for dental services, depending on your level of cover. We offer instant HICAPS claiming in-clinic, so you only pay the gap on the day. Our team can also help you check what your plan includes before your appointment.
- What if I’m nervous about dental treatment?
You’re not alone — many people feel anxious at the dentist. Our team takes pride in providing gentle, patient-centred care with clear explanations at every step. We also offer options like happy gas (nitrous oxide) to help you relax comfortably during treatment.
💬 Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help you feel informed and confident about your dental care.
📞 Call us on (07) 40323236 or 💻 Book your appointment online with Cairns Dental Boutique today.
Your smile’s in good hands — and we’ll make sure every visit feels easy, comfortable, and positive. 🌴💙
