Patient Information

At Sandgate Family Dental, we understand that visiting a new dentist, or any dentist, can feel daunting. Whether you’re a new patient, returning after a break, or bringing your children in for the first time, our team is here to make the experience straightforward and comfortable.

Our practice has been caring for patients at 12 Lagoon Street, Sandgate since 2007. We took over the practice in 2022, expanding our focus on families, preventive care, and making quality dental treatment accessible through a range of health fund and payment options.

Below you’ll find everything you need to know before your appointment.

Book Your First Appointment → or call us on (07) 3269 6252

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Your initial visit is about getting to know you, understanding your dental history, and creating a plan that works for your situation.

Here’s how a typical first appointment works:

Arrival and check-in. We ask that you arrive around 10 minutes early to complete any paperwork. If you’re a new patient, you’ll receive a link to our online patient form before your visit, you can fill it in at home at your own pace, or complete it when you arrive.

Comprehensive oral examination. Your dentist will carry out a thorough assessment of your teeth, gums and overall oral health. This may include digital X-rays if clinically indicated, so we can identify anything that isn’t visible during a standard check-up.

Discussion and treatment plan. We’ll talk you through our findings in plain language, no jargon. If treatment is recommended, we’ll explain your options, the expected timeline, and the costs involved so there are no surprises. We’ll always get your agreement before proceeding with any treatment.

Professional clean. For many patients, a check-up and clean can be completed in the same visit. Your dentist will confirm whether this is appropriate for you.

Most first appointments take between 30 and 60 minutes depending on what’s needed.

This information is general. Your individual experience, treatment plan and costs will depend on your specific oral health needs.

How to Prepare for Your Visit

We want your appointment at Sandgate Family Dental to be as smooth and comfortable as possible. Before your visit, here are a few simple things that can help:

Please arrive 5–10 minutes early if it is your first appointment so we can complete any necessary paperwork.
Bring your health fund card and any relevant medical information or referral letters.
If you are taking medications or have changes to your medical history, let our team know before your appointment.
If you have dental anxiety or concerns about treatment, feel free to speak with us beforehand, our team is here to help you feel comfortable.
For children’s appointments, bringing along a favourite toy or comfort item can help them feel more relaxed.
If you need to reschedule, we appreciate as much notice as possible so we can offer the appointment to another patient.

If you have any questions before your visit, our friendly team is happy to assist.

Nervous About the Dentist? We're Here to Help

Dental anxiety is extremely common, and our team sees it every day. If you’re feeling anxious — whether it’s been years since your last visit or you’ve had a difficult experience in the past — please let us know when you book. We can allow extra time, explain each step before we do it, and work at a pace that feels right for you.

We also welcome patients who have specific needs, sensory sensitivities, or who simply prefer a quieter, more patient approach.

The best thing you can do is tell us how you’re feeling. We’d rather know than guess.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

To help your visit run smoothly, please bring the following:

Your health fund membership card — so we can process your claim on the spot using HICAPS.

A list of any medications you’re currently taking — including supplements and over-the-counter medications. This helps us assess any interactions or considerations before treatment.

Any relevant medical history — particularly if you have conditions such as diabetes, heart conditions, blood-clotting disorders, or if you are pregnant. If anything has changed since your last dental visit, let us know.

Your referral letter — if you’ve been referred by another dentist or health professional.

Your child’s Medicare card — if your child may be eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), which provides up to $1,158 in benefits over a two-year period for eligible children aged 0–17.

Families and Children's Dentistry

We see patients of all ages, from toddlers through to grandparents. Our children’s dentistry services are designed to make early dental visits positive so your child develops a healthy relationship with dental care from the start.

If your child is eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, they may receive up to $1,158 in bulk-billed dental services at no out-of-pocket cost to you. This covers check-ups, cleans, fillings, X-rays and more. We can check your child’s eligibility when you book.

We also provide custom sports mouthguards for children and teens involved in contact sports — a worthwhile investment for active families.

Health Funds, Payment Plans and Fees

Health fund cover. We are preferred providers for nib, HCF, HIF and CBHS, and we are part of the Smile.com.au network. We accept most major health funds and can process your claim on the spot using HICAPS, you only pay the gap, if any.

Before your visit, it’s worth checking your annual extras limit and remaining balance with your fund. Bring your membership card to your appointment so we can handle the claim for you. For a full list of funds and what to expect, see our health funds page.

Payment plans. We offer flexible payment options through Zip, humm and Afterpay for eligible treatments, so you can spread the cost of treatment into manageable instalments. SuperCare access is also available for eligible patients who may wish to use their superannuation to cover dental treatment. Approval, terms and eligibility criteria apply to all payment plans.

No health fund? That’s fine. We provide transparent pricing and will always discuss costs with you before any treatment begins. Ask us about our options when you call.

Getting Here
Sandgate and Surrounding Suburbs

Sandgate Family Dental 12 Lagoon Street, Sandgate QLD 4017

We’re located in the Bon Accord Centre complex with free street parking available directly outside on Lagoon Street. Our practice is a 3–5 minute walk from Sandgate train station on the Shorncliffe line.

Open hours: Monday–Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Sunday: Closed

We welcome patients from across North Brisbane’s bayside, including Brighton (6 min drive), Shorncliffe (4 min), Deagon (6 min), Bracken Ridge (10 min), Taigum (11 min), Boondall (9 min), Fitzgibbon (10 min), and across the bridge from Woody Point (14 min), Clontarf (12 min) and Margate (16 min).

Need directions from your suburb? Visit our dentist near me page for driving, public transport and cycling directions from each area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a first appointment take? Most first appointments take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on whether a clean and X-rays are included. We’ll give you an estimate when you book.

Do I need a referral? No referral is needed for general dental appointments. Simply book online or call us directly.

What if I have a dental emergency? We offer emergency dental appointments for urgent issues such as severe pain, broken teeth, or swelling. Call us on (07) 3269 6252 and we’ll do our best to see you on the same day.

Are you open on Saturdays? Yes. We’re open Saturday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM — convenient for patients who can’t get away during the working week.

Can I claim on the spot? Yes. We use HICAPS to process health fund claims at the time of your appointment. Just bring your membership card.

What if I haven’t been to a dentist in years? No judgement — it’s more common than you might think. We’ll take things at your pace and focus on what matters most first. Let us know when you book so we can allow enough time.