How do I know if I have wisdom teeth?

Not everyone develops wisdom teeth, and not all wisdom teeth cause symptoms. The most reliable way to know if you have wisdom teeth is through a dental examination and diagnostic X-rays. These allow your dentist to see whether wisdom teeth are present, how they are positioned and whether they are likely to cause problems, even if you are not currently experiencing pain.

When is wisdom teeth removal recommended?

Wisdom teeth removal is usually recommended when the teeth are impacted, difficult to clean or causing problems such as repeated infection, pain or damage to nearby teeth. Removal may also be advised if X-rays show that the wisdom teeth are likely to cause future issues due to their position. Your dentist will assess your individual situation and recommend removal only when it is clinically necessary.

Is wisdom teeth removal painful?

With modern dental techniques and effective local anaesthetic, wisdom teeth removal is typically comfortable during the procedure itself. Most patients feel pressure rather than pain. Some discomfort, swelling or soreness after the extraction is normal, and this is usually well managed with aftercare instructions and appropriate pain relief.

How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?

Recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the extraction. Most patients are able to return to normal activities within a few days. Your dentist will provide thorough aftercare advice to support healing and reduce the risk of complications.

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is used when the inner part of a tooth, known as the pulp, becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen due to deep decay, cracks in the tooth, trauma or repeated dental procedures. During root canal treatment, the infected tissue is carefully removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed, and the tooth is restored to help prevent further infection.

When is root canal treatment needed?

In many cases, the need for root canal treatment is not based on symptoms alone. While pain, sensitivity or swelling can be warning signs, root canal therapy is often confirmed through a combination of a clinical examination and diagnostic X-rays. These X-rays allow your dentist to identify infection, inflammation or damage to the tooth pulp that cannot be seen from the outside. It is also possible for a tooth to require root canal treatment without causing obvious pain. This is why regular dental check ups and appropriate X-rays play an important role in diagnosing problems early and preventing further complications.

Is root canal treatment painful?

One of the most common concerns patients have is whether root canal treatment is painful. Modern root canal therapy is designed to relieve pain, not cause it. With current techniques and effective local anaesthetic, most patients find the procedure comfortable and comparable to having a filling placed. Our team takes a gentle, calm approach and explains each step so you feel informed and at ease throughout your visit.

What is the root canal treatment process at Cannon Hill Smiles?

Root canal treatment is usually completed at least 3 appointments, depending on the tooth and level of infection. Your dentist will first assess the tooth and take X rays if needed. The infected tissue is removed, the canals are cleaned and disinfected, and the tooth is sealed. Following root canal treatment our dentists may also recommend that a crown is placed over the tooth to prevent any future infection and to avoid the tooth splitting and breaking. This is a basic overview of what can be a complex process. However, our dentists at Cannon Hill Smiles will keep you comfortable and informed all the way and, if required, will consult specialists to ensure you receive the best possible outcome.

When should my child first see a dentist?

The Australian Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children have their first dental appointment within six months of their first tooth erupting, or by their first birthday - whichever comes first. Often we suggest that little ones come along to a routine appointment that another family member is having and experience sitting in the chair and get used to sounds and smells, just to get them acquainted with it.

What happens at a children’s dental appointment?

A children’s dental visit usually includes a gentle examination, professional clean, and advice on brushing and flossing. Depending on your child’s needs, fluoride treatments or fissure sealants may also be recommended.

Do you offer bulk billed dental care through Medicare for children?

Yes, we bulk bill eligible children under the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule. This government program provides financial support for basic dental services for eligible children aged 0 to 17 years. If your child is eligible, Medicare may cover the cost of services such as check ups, cleans, X rays, fluoride treatments, fissure sealants, fillings and extractions, up to the available benefit limit. For more information, visit: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/child-dental-benefits-schedule

How do I check if my child is eligible for Medicare dental benefits?

You can check your child’s eligibility by contacting Medicare directly or through your myGov account. If you are unsure, contact our friendly team and we can check eligibility for you. Check eligibility here.

General Dentistry Archives » Cannon Hill Smiles

Dental Fillings

By Ekera Dental | 5 December 2025

Dental Fillings in Brisbane Dental fillings are commonly needed to treat cavities or repair broken and chipped teeth. Cavities usually develop over time due to infrequent brushing and flossing, as well as regular consumption of sugary foods and drinks. At Cannon Hill Smiles, we provide high quality tooth coloured dental fillings in Brisbane that bond…

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By Anet Varghese | 5 September 2023

Wisdom teeth removal in Cannon Hill Wisdom teeth often cause problems during the late teenage years or early twenties, but they can also become an issue later in life. While some wisdom teeth erupt normally and never cause concern, others can become impacted or partially erupt, leading to pain, infection and damage to surrounding teeth.…

Extraction

By Anet Varghese | 5 September 2023

Tooth Extractions in Cannon Hill, Brisbane There are times when removing a tooth is the most appropriate option to protect your overall oral health. At Cannon Hill Smiles, we always aim to preserve natural teeth wherever possible and will discuss all suitable treatment options before recommending an extraction. If a tooth cannot be saved, our…

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By Anet Varghese | 5 September 2023

Root Canal Treatment in Cannon Hill, Brisbane Root canal treatment is a highly effective way to relieve dental pain and save a damaged or infected tooth. At Cannon Hill Smiles, we provide gentle, carefully planned root canal therapy designed to restore comfort and protect your natural tooth. If you are experiencing persistent tooth pain or…

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By Anet Varghese | 5 September 2023

Emergency Dentist in Cannon Hill, Brisbane Dental emergencies can happen without warning and often come with pain, stress and uncertainty. At Cannon Hill Smiles, we provide reliable emergency dental care for patients searching for an emergency dentist in Cannon Hill or Brisbane. Our priority is to relieve discomfort, assess the problem and begin treatment as…

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Professional dental check-up & clean in Cannon Hill Regular dental check ups and professional teeth cleaning play a key role in keeping your mouth healthy and problem free. At Cannon Hill Smiles, we strongly believe that preventative care is the foundation of long term oral health. Our experienced Cannon Hill dentist team encourages patients to…

Children’s Dentistry

By Anet Varghese | 5 September 2023

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Friendly Kids’ Dentist in Cannon Hill, Brisbane Looking after children’s teeth from an early age helps set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. At Cannon Hill Smiles, our friendly team provides gentle children’s dentistry in a calm, welcoming environment. We support families looking for a trusted children’s dentist in Brisbane by focusing on…