For most patients, we recommend visiting Franklin Bright Smiles every six months. Regular intervals allow us to detect decay or gum issues early before they require complex treatment.

Not usually. Our hygienists are very gentle. If you have sensitive teeth or inflamed gums, we can use numbing gels to ensure you are comfortable throughout the clean.

Yes. We use modern digital X-rays which emit up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays. They are essential for seeing what is happening between teeth and under the gum line.

Common signs include bleeding when brushing, red or swollen gums, bad breath that won't go away, or loose teeth. If you notice these, book an appointment immediately.

Bad breath (halitosis) is often caused by bacteria on the teeth or tongue. A professional clean and improved home care usually fixes it, though we also check for underlying issues like gum disease.

We recommend a "happy visit" around age one or when the first tooth erupts. This helps them get used to the environment and allows us to check for early development issues.

Sealants are a protective coating painted on the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars) to block out germs and food. They are highly effective at preventing cavities in children.

Fluoride strengthens enamel and makes teeth more resistant to decay. In Canberra, where water fluoridation levels can vary, topical fluoride at the dentist is a great safety net for growing teeth.

Baby teeth act as "space savers" for adult teeth. If they are lost too early due to decay, it can cause crowding issues later. They are also vital for speech development and eating.

We take a "tell-show-do" approach, explaining things in fun, non-scary ways. For very anxious children, we can discuss options like Happy Gas to help them relax.

At Franklin Bright Smiles, we primarily use tooth-coloured composite resins. They bond directly to the tooth, require less drilling, and look completely natural.

This is a common myth! A root canal relieves pain caused by infection. With modern anaesthesia, the procedure feels very similar to getting a standard filling.

Extraction is needed if they are impacted (stuck), causing infection, damaging neighbouring teeth, or if there simply isn't room in the jaw for them to erupt properly.

Store-bought "boil-and-bite" guards are often bulky and loose. A custom guard fits perfectly, allowing you to breathe and speak while offering superior protection against shock.

Yes, we can create a custom occlusal splint (night guard) that you wear while sleeping. This prevents wear and tear on your teeth and reduces jaw strain and headaches.

Invisalign uses clear, removable plastic trays. They are virtually invisible, more comfortable than metal brackets, and allow you to eat and brush normally.

It depends on complexity. Minor adjustments can take 6 months, while full corrections may take 12-18 months. We give you a specific timeline during your consultation.

Yes. Teeth have a memory and can drift back. We provide comfortable retainers (either removable or fixed behind the teeth) to keep your new smile perfect forever.

No! We treat many adults in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. As long as your gums and bone are healthy, you can straighten your teeth at any age.

You may feel some pressure for a day or two when you switch to a new set of aligners, but it is generally much less painful than tightening metal braces.

No. Professional whitening systems are pH-balanced and safe when supervised by a dentist. They remove stains without eroding the tooth structure.

Whitening opens the pores of the enamel temporarily. Any sensitivity usually subsides within 24-48 hours. We can provide desensitizing gel to help.

Bonding uses resin shaped directly on the tooth (good for small chips). Veneers are thin porcelain shells made in a lab (better for full smile transformations and longevity).

With good care, porcelain veneers can last 10–15 years or more. They are highly resistant to staining and very durable.

No, whitening gels only work on natural tooth enamel. If you have old crowns that look dark, we may need to replace them to match your newly whitened smile.

Most adults with missing teeth are candidates. You need adequate bone density and healthy gums. We assess this using 3D imaging during your consultation.

The process usually takes 3-6 months. The titanium post needs time to fuse with your jawbone (osseointegration) before we attach the final crown.

The procedure is done under local anaesthetic and is generally pain-free. Most patients report that recovery is easier than a tooth extraction.

This is a custom plan combining multiple treatments—like whitening, veneers, and alignment—to completely transform the aesthetics of your smile.

Yes, we understand cosmetic dentistry is an investment. We offer flexible payment options and can discuss third-party financing to make your dream smile affordable.

Take over-the-counter pain relief (like Ibuprofen). Keep your head elevated with pillows and call us first thing in the morning for an urgent slot.

Yes. Facial swelling usually indicates a dental abscess or serious infection. This requires immediate antibiotic treatment and dental care. Call us now.

This is likely an abscess (a pocket of pus). Even if it drains and the pain stops, the infection is still active and needs professional treatment to save the tooth.

Yes. Wisdom tooth pain (pericoronitis) is very common. We can clean the area to relieve pain immediately and discuss removal if necessary.

Sudden sensitivity can mean a cracked tooth, a lost filling, or gum recession. It’s best to get it checked before it turns into a constant toothache.

Pick it up by the crown (white part), rinse briefly with milk if dirty, and try to put it back in the socket. If you can't, store it in milk and rush to us within 30 minutes.

Usually, yes. We can often use composite bonding to repair the chip in a single visit, restoring the look of your tooth immediately.

No! Do not use superglue. Keep the crown safe in a container and bring it to us. We can often re-cement it if the underlying tooth is healthy.

Avoid eating on that side and see us immediately. We may need to splint the tooth to its neighbours to help it stabilize and heal.

Apply firm pressure with a clean cloth. If bleeding doesn't stop after 15 minutes, or if the cut is deep, go to the hospital emergency department.

Absolutely. We serve the entire Canberra community. You do not need to be an existing patient to access our emergency care.

The cost depends on the treatment needed (e.g., extraction vs. prescription). We will always give you a quote before starting any procedure.

We offer extended hours and weekend availability because we know dental pain doesn't adhere to a Monday-Friday schedule.

Please tell us you are anxious when you call. We are non-judgmental and have sedation options to help you get through the appointment comfortably.

If you are away from Canberra, seek a local dentist immediately. If you are a patient of record, you can call us for advice over the phone on what to do until you return.