Dental FAQs
Answers to the questions we’re asked most often at Delacombe Family Dental in Delacombe Town Centre, Ballarat. If your question isn’t here, call us on (03) 5312 7815.
Where are you, and is there parking?
We’re inside Delacombe Town Centre at Unit 29/315 Glenelg Highway, Smythes Creek VIC 3351, near the corner of Glenelg Highway and Cherry Flat Road. There’s free parking in the Town Centre car park. The practice has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, toilet and car parking.
What are your opening hours?
Monday 9am–5pm, Tuesday 9am–7pm, Wednesday 9am–6pm, Thursday 9am–5pm and Friday 9am–5pm. We’re closed on weekends and public holidays. Our Tuesday and Wednesday evening appointments suit people who work or have school pick-ups.
Are you taking new patients?
Yes. You can book online or call (03) 5312 7815. You don’t need a referral to see a dentist.
Do you bulk bill children?
Yes. If your child is aged 2 to 17 and eligible for the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), we bulk bill covered services such as check-ups, cleans, X-rays, fillings and extractions, so there’s nothing to pay for those. The CDBS covers up to $1,158 per child over two consecutive calendar years (2026 cap). Not sure if your child is eligible? Call us and we’ll check for you.
When should my child first see a dentist?
The Australian Dental Association recommends a child’s first dental visit when their first tooth comes through, or by about 12 months of age. Early visits are short and relaxed, and help children get used to the dental chair before they ever need treatment. See our children’s dental care page for what to expect.
What should I do in a dental emergency?
Call us on (03) 5312 7815 as early in the day as you can. We set aside time for urgent problems such as toothache, a broken or chipped tooth, a lost filling or swelling, and will do our best to see you the same day during opening hours. If a permanent tooth has been knocked out, hold it by the crown (not the root), keep it moist in milk, and call straight away. If you have severe facial swelling, trouble breathing or swallowing, or a serious injury, go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 000.
Do you accept health funds?
Yes. If you have extras cover, we claim on the spot through HICAPS, so you only pay the gap on the day. We work with the major funds, including Bupa, Medibank, HCF, NIB, Australian Unity, HBF, GMHBA and Defence Health. We’re an HCF preferred provider.
Can I pay off treatment over time?
Yes. We offer 0% interest payment plans for larger treatment, and we’re a provider for SuperCare, which helps eligible patients apply to use their superannuation for some dental treatment. See payment plans for details, or ask our reception team.
I’m nervous about the dentist. What can I do?
Let us know when you book. Your dentist will explain each step before starting, you can ask questions at any time, and you can agree on a signal to take a break whenever you need one. Many people find that talking through the plan first makes the visit much easier.
What treatments do you offer?
General dentistry including check-ups, cleans, fillings and extractions; emergency appointments; root canal treatment; gum treatment; crowns and bridges; dental implants; dentures; Invisalign clear aligners; porcelain veneers; teeth whitening; and sports mouthguards. See all services.
Which areas do your patients come from?
Mostly Delacombe, Smythes Creek, Sebastopol, Alfredton, Bonshaw, Winter Valley, Lucas and Wendouree, and from across Ballarat.
