What happens at your first visit to AMK Dental Clinic?
Your first visit to AMK Dental Clinic usually takes about an hour. It is a chance for your dentist to understand your health and your teeth, and for you to ask questions.
A first visit usually includes:
- Your medical and dental history. We ask about your general health, medicines, allergies and any previous dental treatment, because these can affect your dental care.
- An examination. Your dentist checks your teeth, gums, bite, jaw and the soft tissues of your mouth.
- An oral cancer screening. This is a visual and physical check of your lips, tongue, cheeks and throat for anything unusual.
- X-rays, if needed. X-rays show decay between teeth, bone levels and problems below the gum line. Your dentist will explain why any X-rays are recommended.
- A treatment plan and itemised estimate. Your dentist explains what they found and your options, including the benefits, risks and costs. You receive the fees and item numbers in writing.
Healthdirect describes a similar process for a routine check-up. A scale and clean may be done at the same visit or booked separately, depending on your needs and the time available.
What should you bring to your first appointment?
Please bring:
- your health fund card, if you have extras cover, so we can claim on the spot
- your Medicare card, especially if your child may be eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule
- your DVA card, if you have one
- a list of your current medicines, including doses, and any allergies
- previous X-rays or dental records, if you have them, or your previous dentist’s details
Do you need to fill in a new patient form?
Yes. New patients complete a patient information and consent form covering your contact details, medical history, medicines and allergies. You can fill it in at reception, or ask us whether it can be completed before your visit. If you complete it at reception, please arrive about 10 minutes early.
How do you book an appointment?
You can book online at any time through our booking system, or call AMK Dental Clinic on (02) 9739 6525. If you are in pain, have swelling or have damaged a tooth, please phone instead of booking online so we can advise you. See our opening hours on the Contact page.
How does payment work?
Payment is due at the end of each appointment. We offer on-the-spot health fund claiming through HICAPS, so you pay only the gap, if there is one, on the day. Our fees and health funds page covers payment methods, Medicare, the CDBS and DVA.
What is the cancellation policy?
AMK Dental Clinic asks for at least 48 hours’ notice to cancel or move an appointment, so we can offer the time to another patient. Call (02) 9739 6525 as early as you can.
Is the practice accessible?
AMK Dental Clinic is at Shop 3, 46 Tennyson Road. If you use a wheelchair, walker or pram, or need extra time or help, please tell us when you book so we can plan your visit with you. Phone contact through the National Relay Service is welcome.
Where can you park, and how do you get here by public transport?
AMK Dental Clinic is at Shop 3, 46 Tennyson Road, Mortlake NSW 2137. The City of Canada Bay describes parking in the Mortlake centre as mainly on-street parking with a range of time restrictions, so please check the signs and allow extra time.
- Bus: route 464 runs between Ashfield and Mortlake via Concord (timetable).
- Ferry: the nearest Parramatta River ferry wharf is at Cabarita, served by the F3 ferry. The Transport NSW Trip Planner shows current connections.
- From north of the river: the Mortlake–Putney vehicle ferry crosses the Parramatta River to Mortlake.
Use the Transport NSW Trip Planner for current times.
What if you feel nervous about the dentist?
Please tell us if you feel anxious. Your dentist will explain each step before it happens, and you can agree on a signal to pause at any time. Ask about local anaesthetic and other comfort options for your treatment.
Common questions
How long is a first appointment at AMK Dental Clinic?
A first appointment at AMK Dental Clinic usually takes about an hour. That allows time to go through your medical and dental history, examine your teeth, gums and mouth, take any X-rays you need and talk about what your dentist finds. If treatment is recommended, it is usually booked for a later visit after you have had time to review your written estimate.
Do I need a referral to see a dentist?
No. You do not need a referral from a GP or anyone else to see a general dentist in Australia, including at AMK Dental Clinic. You can book online or call (02) 9739 6525. If you have X-rays or reports from a previous dentist, please bring them or ask for them to be sent to us before your visit.
What happens if I need to cancel or change my appointment?
Please give AMK Dental Clinic at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel or change your appointment. This lets us offer the time to someone else, including people in pain who need to be seen. You can call us on (02) 9739 6525. If something unexpected happens on the day, call us as soon as you can.
Will I have to pay on the day?
Yes. Payment is due at the end of each appointment at AMK Dental Clinic. If you have extras cover, we can claim from your health fund on the spot through HICAPS, so you pay only the gap, if there is one. For longer courses of treatment, we will explain how and when fees are charged when we give you your written estimate.