Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Our clinic is conveniently located at 45 Short Street, Forster NSW, in the heart of town. We are easily accessible for patients across Forster, Tuncurry, Taree, Nabiac, Hallidays Point, Pacific Palms, and the wider Mid North Coast region.

We are preferred providers for HCF, Westfund and NIB, and we also accept all other major health funds. Our HICAPS system allows on-the-spot claiming so you only need to pay the gap.

Yes. Our Forster clinic is designed with full disabled access, including ramp entry and accessible facilities to ensure every patient feels comfortable and welcome.

Yes. We provide free onsite parking for our patients, with additional street parking nearby for your convenience.

At Forster Tuncurry Dental & Implants, Dr Kenny uses only the highest quality bone grafting materials to ensure optimal healing and long-term success for our patients. We primarily utilise biocompatible bone graft materials that have been proven safe and effective through extensive research and clinical use.

Understanding Bone Grafting in Forster Tuncurry

Our preferred materials include:

Xenograft Bone  — Is an animal-derived bone that has been stringently sterilised and treated to remove all organic components while maintaining the mineral structure that encourages new bone growth. Typical xenografts that we like to use include porcine (pig derived) which shares similar characteristics to human bone and bovine (cow derived) which is good for volumetric stability.

Synthetic bone grafts — These are laboratory-created materials that mimic natural bone structure and promote excellent integration with your existing bone tissue. They're completely biocompatible, eliminate any risk of disease transmission and is vegan-friendly.

The choice of material depends on several factors, including the size of the area being grafted, the location in your mouth and your individual healing characteristics. It is common for Dr Kenny to use a combination of bone sources, including that of your own (growth factors, platelets, osteoinductive cells) to achieve optimal results. During your consultation, Dr Kenny will thoroughly assess your specific circumstance and recommend the most suitable option for your unique individual needs.

Each type of bone graft may also have variations that may affect your eligibility for blood donations. Feel free to discuss this with Dr Kenny if you intend on donating blood before or after your bone graft procedure.

Contact Forster Tuncurry Dental & Implants for More Information

Dr Kenny has extensive experience with these materials and will discuss the chosen option with you, explaining why it's the best choice for your particular case.

Rest assured that your treatment at our Forster dental practice prioritises both safety and effectiveness.

Proper care of your clear aligners is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene and ensuring your treatment progresses smoothly. At Forster Tuncurry Dental & Implants, Dr Kenny and Dr Olivia provide comprehensive guidance to help you get the best results from your aligner therapy.

Tips for Keeping Clear Aligners Clean and Fresh

Daily Cleaning Routine

Rinse and clean your aligners with lukewarm water every time you remove them. Choose a soft-bristle toothbrush. Use clear, antibacterial soap or an aligner cleaning solution to gently brush away bacteria and plaque. Don't use toothpaste as it can be too abrasive and create tiny scratches that harbour bacteria.

What to Avoid

Never use hot water as it can warp the plastic. Don't eat or drink anything except plain water while wearing your aligners, as this can stain them and also promote tooth decay. Avoid coloured mouthwashes that might discolour your aligners.

Storage and Handling

Storing your aligners in a protective case when they're not in use prevents loss and keeps them from damage. Handle them carefully to avoid cracking or bending.

Oral Hygiene

It's a good idea to brush and floss before reinserting your aligners. This ensures food particles and bacteria don't get trapped against your teeth for extended periods.

Professional Maintenance

During your regular check-ups at Forster Tuncurry Dental & Implants, we'll assess your aligner condition and oral health progress. If you experience any issues or have questions about care, don't hesitate to contact our friendly team for guidance.

Dr Kenny and Dr Olivia are pleased to offer custom take-home teeth whitening kits that deliver professional results while you whiten your teeth at home. This treatment provides a safe, effective and convenient way to achieve a brighter, more confident smile.

Why Choose Forster Tuncurry Dental & Implants for Professional Teeth Whitening?

Custom Take-Home Whitening Kits

Our professional whitening system begins with taking precise impressions of your teeth to create custom-fitted trays that are unique to your mouth. Custom trays ensure even distribution of the whitening gel and prevent gum irritation that can occur with over-the-counter products.

Professional-Grade Whitening Gel

We provide high-quality whitening gel that contains a higher concentration of active ingredients than shop-bought alternatives. This professional formula is both more effective and safer when used under dental supervision.

Treatment Process

During your initial consultation at our Forster practice, we'll assess your teeth and discuss your whitening goals. Once your custom trays are ready, we'll provide detailed instructions on proper application and usage. Most patients wear their trays for a few hours daily or overnight, depending on the specific treatment plan.

Ongoing Support

Throughout your whitening journey, our team is available to answer questions and monitor your progress. We'll schedule follow-up appointments to ensure you're achieving optimal results safely.

This professional approach delivers superior, longer-lasting results compared to generic whitening products while protecting your oral health throughout the process.

Proper care of your dental implant is crucial for ensuring its longevity and maintaining excellent oral health. At Forster Tuncurry Dental & Implants, our team provides comprehensive aftercare guidance to help you protect your investment and enjoy your new smile for decades to come.

Dental implants require similar care to natural teeth but with some specific considerations. The area around your implant needs particular attention to prevent peri-implantitis, which is similar to gum disease and can threaten implant stability.

Tips for Dental Implant Care

Daily Care Routine

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying special attention to the implant area
• Use fluoride toothpaste to maintain overall oral health
• Floss daily around the implant using unwaxed floss 
• Consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria
• Use interdental brushes or water flossers for thorough cleaning between teeth
• Avoid abrasive toothpastes that might scratch the implant surface

Lifestyle Considerations

Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, pens or bones that could damage your implant crown. If you grind your teeth, discuss wearing a night guard with our team. Maintain a balanced diet and limit sugary foods that promote bacterial growth.

Professional Maintenance

Regular check-ups and professional cleanings at your dentist in Forster are essential. Dr Kenny will monitor your implant health and address any concerns early. Professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that home care might miss.

With proper care, your dental implant can last a lifetime while maintaining optimal function and appearance.

While not all dental emergencies can be prevented, taking proactive steps significantly reduces your risk of experiencing urgent dental problems.

At Forster Tuncurry Dental & Implants, Dr Kenny and Dr Olivia emphasise prevention as the cornerstone of excellent oral health. They can help you develop strategies to protect your teeth and gums.

Protecting Your Healthy Smile 

Preventive Home Care Measures 

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene with twice-daily brushing and daily flossing.
• Attend regular check-ups and professional cleanings every six months.
• Address minor problems early before they become emergencies.
• Wear a mouthguard during contact sports or high-risk activities.
• Use a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth.
• Avoid chewing hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels or pen caps.
• Don't use your teeth as tools to open packages or bottles.
• Limit acidic and sugary foods that promote tooth decay.
• Drink water and keep hydrated to ensure saliva production.

Professional Prevention

Regular visits to our Forster practice allow early detection of potential problems. Dr Kenny and Dr Olivia can identify issues like developing cavities, gum disease or worn fillings before they become painful emergencies. Professional cleanings remove harmful bacteria and tartar that contribute to dental problems.

Emergency Preparedness

Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen. Keep our contact details handy and know the signs that require immediate attention, such as severe pain, swelling or trauma to your mouth.

By combining excellent home care with regular professional visits, you can dramatically reduce your likelihood of experiencing dental emergencies and maintain optimal oral health year-round.

A full mouth reconstruction can transform your confidence and quality of life, and at Forster Tuncurry Dental & Implants, Dr Kenny and Dr Olivia work with patients from all walks of life to create their dream smiles. The beauty of smile makeovers is that they're highly customised to address each person's unique concerns and goals.

Personalised Treatment Plans for Healthy, Beautiful Smiles

Ideal candidates typically include people with:

• Multiple cosmetic concerns affecting several teeth
• Significantly discoloured or stained teeth that don't respond to whitening
• Worn, chipped or broken teeth from age or grinding
• Gaps between teeth or uneven spacing
• Crooked or misaligned teeth
• Missing teeth that affect appearance and function
• Gum irregularities that impact smile aesthetics
• Old, failing dental work that needs replacement

What Makes a Good Candidate?

You should be in good general and oral health, or be willing to address any underlying issues first. Realistic expectations are essential, as is commitment to maintaining excellent oral hygiene after treatment. Non-smokers typically achieve better, longer-lasting results.

There's no upper age limit for smile makeovers. Whether you're in your twenties wanting to perfect your smile or in your seventies looking to restore function and aesthetics, treatment can be tailored to your needs.

During your consultation at our Forster dental surgery, we'll discuss your concerns, assess your oral health and create a personalised treatment plan. Dr Kenny and Dr Olivia will explain all available options and help you understand what's possible for your unique situation, ensuring your makeover exceeds expectations.

The general recommendation is to visit your dentist every six months for routine check-ups and professional cleanings. However, at Forster Tuncurry Dental & Implants, Dr Kenny and Dr Olivia understand that individual needs vary, and they tailor appointment schedules based on your specific oral health requirements and risk factors.

Understanding Preventive Dental Care

For most patients, twice-yearly visits provide the perfect balance of preventive care and early problem detection. During these appointments, we thoroughly examine your teeth and gums, perform professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup and identify any developing issues before they become serious problems. Regular visits also allow us to monitor changes in your oral health over time.

Some patients may require more frequent visits. If you have a history of gum disease, you might benefit from cleanings every three to four months to maintain optimal gum health. Patients with diabetes, those who smoke, or individuals prone to cavities may also need more regular monitoring. Pregnant women often require additional visits due to hormonal changes that can affect gum health.

Conversely, patients with excellent oral health and low risk factors might be suitable for annual visits, though this is less common. Children typically follow the standard six-monthly schedule once their teeth begin erupting.

Personalised Dental Care for Your Smile

Your dentist in Forster assesses your individual circumstances during your initial consultation and recommends an appropriate visit schedule. We believe in personalised care that fits your lifestyle and health needs.

Remember, preventive visits are always more comfortable and cost-effective than emergency treatments, making regular dental care a wise investment in your long-term health and well-being.

Root canal treatment has an undeserved reputation for being painful, but modern techniques and anaesthetics make the procedure surprisingly comfortable.

At Forster Tuncurry Dental & Implants, Dr Kenny uses advanced methods and takes great care to ensure patients experience minimal discomfort throughout their treatment.

The Surprising Truth about Root Canal Treatment

The truth is that root canal therapy actually relieves pain rather than causing it. The severe toothache you experience before treatment comes from infected or inflamed pulp inside your tooth. The procedure removes this source of pain, providing significant relief.

What to expect during treatment:

• Complete numbing with local anaesthetic before we begin
• You'll feel pressure but no sharp pain during the procedure
• Additional anaesthetic is available if needed
• Most patients report feeling comfortable throughout treatment
• The procedure is similar in sensation to having a large filling

Managing post-treatment discomfort:

• Mild soreness for a few days is normal as tissues heal
• Over-the-counter pain relievers effectively manage any discomfort
• Cold compresses can reduce swelling if it occurs
• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until restoration is complete

Your Comfort Is Our Priority

Dr Kenny's gentle approach and expertise ensure your comfort is prioritised. Many patients are surprised by how straightforward and painless their root canal experience is at our Forster dental clinic. We'll talk about pain management options beforehand and give you detailed aftercare instructions.

Remember that delaying root canal treatment often leads to increased pain and more complex procedures. Early intervention typically results in easier treatment and faster recovery, making prompt care the best choice for your comfort.

Recovery time from tooth extraction varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure and your individual healing capacity. Generally, most patients can expect initial healing within 3 to 7 days, with complete recovery taking 1 to 2 weeks for simple extractions.

Understanding the Recovery Process

For straightforward extractions, you'll likely experience some discomfort and swelling for the first 24-48 hours. The extraction site typically begins forming a blood clot immediately, which is crucial for proper healing. Most patients can return to normal activities within 2 to 3 days, though you should avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours.

Wisdom tooth extractions or surgical procedures may require more extended recovery periods, often 7 to 10 days or more. These more complex procedures involve greater tissue trauma and may include stitches, which can extend healing time.

To ensure optimal recovery, follow these essential guidelines:

• Apply ice packs for 15 to 20 minutes at a time during the first 24 hours to reduce swelling
• Take prescribed or recommended pain medication as directed
• Eat soft foods and avoid hot liquids for the first day
• Avoid using straws, smoking or spitting forcefully to prevent dislodging the blood clot
• Maintain gentle oral hygiene, avoiding the extraction site
• Get plenty of rest to support your body's healing process

When to Contact Forster Tuncurry Dental & Implants

Warning signs that require immediate attention include severe pain that worsens after day three, excessive bleeding, signs of infection (fever, pus, persistent bad taste) or dry socket symptoms. Please contact our dental practice right away if you experience any concerning symptoms, as prompt treatment can prevent complications and ensure proper healing.

Temporomandibular disorder affects the jaw joints and surrounding muscles, causing pain and dysfunction that can significantly impact daily life.

At Forster Tuncurry Dental & Implants, Dr Kenny and Dr Olivia frequently treat TMD patients and understand that this complex condition often results from multiple contributing factors rather than a single cause.

Understanding TMD

Common causes of TMD can include:

• Teeth grinding or clenching, particularly during sleep
• Jaw trauma from accidents, sports injuries or dental procedures
• Arthritis affecting the temporomandibular joints
• Misaligned bite or poorly fitting dental work
• Excessive gum chewing or nail-biting habits
• Stress and tension cause muscle tightness
• Hormonal changes, particularly in women
• Genetic predisposition to joint problems

Contributing Lifestyle Factors

Poor posture, especially forward head positioning from computer work, can strain jaw muscles and joints. Eating hard or chewy foods regularly may overwork the jaw muscles. Sleep disorders often coincide with teeth grinding, compounding TMD symptoms.

The Stress Connection

Emotional stress plays a significant role in TMD development. During stressful periods, many people unconsciously clench their jaw muscles or grind their teeth, leading to muscle fatigue and joint strain. This creates a cycle where pain increases stress, which worsens TMD symptoms.

TMD Relief Is a Phone Call Away

Your dentist in Forster conducts thorough examinations to identify your specific TMD triggers. Dr Kenny and Dr Olivia assess your bite, examine your jaw joints and discuss your lifestyle factors to develop an effective treatment plan. Understanding the root causes of your TMD is essential for successful long-term management.