Are you a reluctant patient?

Dental visits are not everyone’s favourite event. People often associate discomfort or pain with a trip to the dentist either from personal experience or general negative portrayal. Those times are long gone! Today’s advanced dentistry practices at TLC Dental are safe, effective and painless. Our latest form of anesthesia injection system, The Wand, is more precise and comfortable than any other traditional form of injection.

What are TLC Dental's Sterilisation Practices?

Your health and safety is extremely important. TLC Dental exercises a strict sterilisation policy throughout the practice. The Australian Dental Association awarded TLC Dental a commendation on our stringent sterilisation protocol. Our team is happy to answer your questions about sterilisation practices or infection control policy.

What are your Appointment Policies?

TLC Dental makes every effort to schedule your personal appointment at a convenient time for you. Should you need to change this appointment, please provide at least 48 hours if you notice you are unable to attend to avoid a fee. For emergency appointments call TLC Dental 02 8599 7107.

Can anything help my occasional bad breath?

Yes! Apart from what you had for dinner the night before, your oral health should be evaluated for several criteria. Visit our Fresh Breath Centre for details.

Does chewing gum help oral health?

Some sugar-free chewing gums contain Xylitol or Sorbitol which are cariostatic and help to prevent decay. The additional saliva generated from chewing the gum also increases the natural protection against tooth decay because saliva offers a natural buffer against the acid formed by bacteria. In addition, at TLC Dental, we recommend Recaldent chewing gum, only distributed by dentists to patients who present a high risk of decay.

Are mouth guards important?

Anyone playing sport or training can benefit from custom made, correctly fitted mouthguards to protect teeth against injury. Over the counter mouthguards do not offer the snug, comfortable fit that a custom mouthguard can nor can they offer an adequate level of protection. Talk to the TLC Dental team about creating a customized mouthguard for any sports enthusiast.

Is flossing important?

Flossing is essential to remove plaque from between your teeth where gum disease can begin. Follow these Basic Flossing Tips to look after your oral health.

Does the kind of tooth brush I use make a difference?

There is a wide range of manual and electric toothbrushes available. Dr Hoffenberg and his team of hygienists will advise you about the most appropriate tooth brush to use.

Is snoring related to my dental health?

Snoring is an annoying problem with several side effects. It can be disturbing for your partner; it disrupts your sleep and can also be a sign of high blood pressure or hypertension. Most importantly though it could be a warning that you suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) which could be life threatening. At TLC Dental we provide relief from snoring with the development of an appliance which can be worn at night to eliminate this debilitating condition. We also conduct assessments for OSA. If required, we will refer you to a sleep specialist for further investigation. Discuss your snoring problem with the TLC Dental Team.

How do you explain tooth grinding?

Uncontrolled tooth grinding (especially during sleep) can wear away teeth and cause unhealthy stress on the tooth structure. Causes for tooth grinding vary: daily tension is the most common trigger. The results if left unchecked can lead to all sorts of problems such as headaches, neckaches, problems with the jaw joint, sensitivity of the teeth, wearing down of the tooth surfaces resulting in a change in your bite and even cracked teeth. Often a Bite Splint is required to protect against this problem. Not only will you protect your teeth, you’ll alleviate discomfort associated with this ailment. Review your daily habits with a TLC Dental team member to get to the root of the problem and see what we can recommend.

How safe and reliable are implants?

Dental Implants are extremely safe and reliable and are an exceptional treatment option in many cases. Implants have a success rate of approximately 95%. Dental Implants provide a permanent solution to replacing single or multiple missing teeth. An implant is a titanium root which the natural bone fixes to, to provide a strong foundation onto which a natural-looking and functional crown is placed.

Is it painful to have an implant?

Almost everyone who has had to have an implant have had a tooth extracted prior to that and almost all say that having an implant is less painful and uncomfortable than having a tooth taken out. Believe us, it really does sound worse than it is.

How long does tooth whitening last?

Once the tooth whitening treatment has been completed you probably won’t have to have it done again. Teeth are porous and absorb stains and after a professional tooth whitening one normally uses tooth whitening trays at home for a few hours, usually every 4 – 6 months to touch up.

Is tooth whitening very sensitive?

This certainly is true for most tooth whitening systems because they contain heavy metals which attract water out of the tooth, thereby causing dehydration and because the active whitening agent, hydrogen peroxide has an acidic PH. However the Natural+ tooth whitening system that we use is unique. It has no heavy metals, so does not cause dehydration and the hydrogen peroxide has a netural PH, both of which which result in NO or at most very little sensitivity. It also contains natural materials, mostly extracted from the dead sea.

General Dentist for Eastlakes Patients | Check-ups, Cleanings & Oral Care

TLC Dental is located at Level 2/74 Castlereagh St, Sydney NSW 2000. While we are not located in Eastlakes, we welcome and regularly treat patients from Eastlakes and the surrounding areas.

TLC Dental is a Sydney CBD dental practice that provides general dental services for patients seeking routine care, preventive treatments, and management of common dental concerns. Located at Level 2/74 Castlereagh St, Sydney NSW 2000, we welcome patients from Eastlakes and the surrounding areas.

Treatment is provided by Dr Leonard Hoffenberg (AHPRA Registration: DEN0001144944), Registered Dental Practitioner. To book an appointment, call us at (02) 8599 7107.

General Dental Services for Eastlakes Residents

We offer a range of general dental services to help maintain your oral health. During your appointment, we assess your individual situation and discuss which treatments may be appropriate for you.

Oral Exams and Cleaning for Eastlakes Patients

Regular dental examinations and professional cleaning form the foundation of preventive dental care. During an oral exam, your dentist assesses the health of your teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues to identify potential concerns early.

An oral exam and cleaning may be appropriate if:

It has been six months or more since your last dental visit
You have noticed changes in your oral health
You want to maintain your current dental health
You have a build-up of plaque or tartar

Professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing may not fully address. The frequency of recommended visits varies depending on individual circumstances and oral health status.

Root Canal Treatment for Eastlakes Patients

Root canal treatment (endodontic therapy) is a procedure used to treat infection or damage within the tooth’s pulp — the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. The procedure involves removing the affected pulp, cleaning the canal system, and sealing the tooth.

Root canal treatment may be recommended if you have:

Severe tooth pain, particularly when chewing or applying pressure
Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Darkening or discolouration of a tooth
Swelling or tenderness in nearby gums
A persistent pimple-like bump on the gums

The procedure is typically completed over one or two appointments. A crown or other restoration is often recommended afterward to protect the treated tooth. Success rates vary depending on individual factors, and your dentist will discuss the expected outcome for your specific situation.

Bad Breath (Halitosis) Treatment for Eastlakes Patients

Persistent bad breath, known as halitosis, can have various causes including oral bacteria, gum disease, dry mouth, or other health conditions. A dental assessment can help identify potential contributing factors and appropriate management options.

A consultation for bad breath may be appropriate if:

Bad breath persists despite regular brushing and flossing
You have noticed a persistent unpleasant taste in your mouth
Others have mentioned concerns about your breath
You experience dry mouth frequently

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include professional cleaning, treatment of gum disease, recommendations for oral hygiene products, or referral to other health professionals if non-dental causes are suspected.

Gum Disease Treatment for Eastlakes Patients

Gum disease (periodontal disease) is a bacterial infection affecting the tissues that support your teeth. It ranges from gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) to more advanced periodontitis, which can affect the bone supporting the teeth.

You may benefit from a gum health assessment if you have noticed:

Red, swollen, or tender gums
Bleeding when brushing or flossing
Receding gums or teeth appearing longer
Persistent bad breath
Loose teeth or changes in your bite

Treatment varies depending on the severity and may include professional cleaning, scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), or referral to a periodontist for advanced cases. Ongoing maintenance is typically required to manage gum disease effectively.

Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Management for Eastlakes Patients

Dental appliances may be one option for managing snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea in some patients. These custom-fitted oral devices work by repositioning the lower jaw and tongue to help maintain an open airway during sleep.

A dental consultation for snoring or sleep apnoea may be appropriate if:

You have been diagnosed with mild to moderate sleep apnoea
You snore regularly and it affects your sleep quality or your partner’s
You have difficulty tolerating CPAP therapy
Your doctor has recommended exploring dental appliance options

Dental appliances are not suitable for all patients or all types of sleep apnoea. We work in conjunction with sleep physicians to determine whether this approach may be appropriate for your situation. A sleep study is typically required before treatment.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) Treatment for Eastlakes Patients

Teeth grinding (bruxism) and jaw clenching can occur during sleep or while awake, often without the person being aware. Over time, this can lead to tooth wear, jaw pain, headaches, and other concerns.

You may benefit from an assessment for teeth grinding if you experience:

Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
Jaw pain or stiffness, particularly in the morning
Frequent headaches or earaches
Increased tooth sensitivity
A partner who has noticed grinding sounds during your sleep

Treatment options may include custom-fitted night guards (occlusal splints) to protect teeth from grinding damage, along with strategies to help manage contributing factors. The appropriate approach depends on the severity and suspected causes of your bruxism.

Check and Clean for Eastlakes Patients

A check and clean appointment combines a thorough dental examination with professional cleaning. This routine preventive care helps maintain oral health and allows early detection of potential concerns.

A check and clean appointment may be beneficial if:

You are due for your regular dental visit
You have noticed plaque or tartar build-up on your teeth
Your gums bleed when brushing or flossing
You want to maintain your current oral health

During a check and clean, we examine your teeth and gums, remove plaque and tartar build-up, polish your teeth, and provide tailored advice on your home care routine. The recommended frequency of visits varies based on your individual oral health needs.

Why Eastlakes Patients Visit TLC Dental

Patients from Eastlakes and the surrounding areas visit TLC Dental for a number of reasons:

Comprehensive services — general, cosmetic, and restorative dental procedures available at one practice
Modern equipment — including digital X-rays and current diagnostic technology
Individual assessment — we discuss your concerns and circumstances before recommending any treatment
Flexible payment options — we offer payment plans to help make dental care more accessible
Central location — our Sydney CBD clinic is accessible by public transport from Eastlakes and surrounding suburbs

General Dental Risks and Considerations

All dental procedures carry some degree of risk. Specific risks vary by procedure and individual circumstances, and may include:

Temporary sensitivity or discomfort following treatment
Infection at treatment sites
Allergic reactions to materials or medications used
Nerve irritation, which may cause temporary numbness or altered sensation
Treatment may not achieve the desired outcome in all cases
Some conditions may require ongoing management rather than a one-time fix

These risks and any considerations specific to your situation are discussed before treatment begins. We encourage you to ask questions and take the time you need to make an informed decision about your care.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

During your appointment at TLC Dental, Dr Leonard Hoffenberg will:

Review your dental and medical history
Examine your teeth, gums, and oral tissues
Take X-rays if clinically indicated
Discuss any concerns you have about your oral health
Explain findings and any recommended treatment options
Outline expected processes, timeframes, and any associated risks
Discuss costs and available payment options

Treatment outcomes vary between individuals and depend on factors including the specific condition being treated, individual health factors, and adherence to any aftercare recommendations.

Contact TLC Dental

If you would like to discuss your dental health or book an appointment, please contact us. We are happy to answer your questions and help you understand your options.

Call us at (02) 8599 7107 or visit our Sydney CBD practice.

TLC Dental
Level 2/74 Castlereagh St, Sydney NSW 2000
(02) 8599 7107

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have a dental check-up?

The recommended frequency of dental visits varies depending on your individual oral health status and risk factors. Many patients benefit from six-monthly check-ups, while others may need more or less frequent visits. Your dentist can advise on an appropriate schedule based on your specific circumstances.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency?

If you experience severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, significant bleeding, or trauma to the mouth, contact us as soon as possible. We accommodate emergency appointments where we can. For after-hours emergencies involving difficulty breathing or severe uncontrolled bleeding, please go to your nearest hospital emergency department.

Does TLC Dental accept health insurance?

We accept most major health funds and have HICAPS facilities for on-the-spot claims. The amount covered depends on your individual policy and level of cover. We recommend checking with your health fund regarding your specific entitlements.

What general dental services does TLC Dental offer?

We provide a range of general dental services including oral examinations, professional cleaning, root canal treatment, gum disease management, treatment for teeth grinding, advice on oral hygiene and home care, and management options for snoring and sleep apnoea. Suitability for any procedure is assessed during your appointment.

How can I manage dental anxiety?

If you feel anxious about dental visits, please let us know. We can take time to explain procedures, answer your questions, and work at a pace that is comfortable for you. For patients with significant dental anxiety, we can discuss available options to help make your visit more manageable.

About Eastlakes

Eastlakes is a suburb in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney, in the state of New South Wales, Australia. Known for its blend of residential and commercial amenities, Eastlakes is a thriving community.

Eastlakes Public School is at 68 Maloney Street. J J Cahill Memorial High School is at Sutherland Street.

Getting to TLC Dental from Eastlakes

Our practice is conveniently located at Level 2/74 Castlereagh St, Sydney NSW 2000. From Eastlakes, you can reach us via:

Southern Cross Drive
Eastern Distributor Motorway
General Holmes Drive
Gardeners Road

General Dentist for Patients From Eastlakes