Language Support at the Dentist

Talking about your teeth, your medical history, and your treatment plan in a language you are confident in matters. If English is not your first language — or you would simply feel more comfortable having a translator present — we are happy to work with you to arrange one. The most important thing is to let us know when you book so we can plan the appointment properly.

This page explains how we can support patients from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds at Sandgate Family Dental. To book, please book online or phone the practice during business hours.

How we can help

If English is not your first language, there are a few things we can do to make appointments easier:

Arrange a translator or interpreter for your appointment — let us know which language you would prefer when you book
Welcome a family member, friend, or community member to come in with you to help interpret
Speak slowly and clearly, and use simple language
Show rather than tell — using diagrams, a hand mirror, or our screen to walk through what we are seeing
Provide written treatment plans and quotes that can be translated at home
Allow extra time so nothing is rushed

We will not assume what you need — if there is something specific that would help, please ask.

Bringing a translator or interpreter

You are welcome to bring a translator with you to your appointment. This might be:

A bilingual family member or friend
A community member from your church, mosque, temple, or community group
A professional interpreter you have used before
A telephone or video interpreter on speaker — the Australian Government’s Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is a long-standing option many patients use

If you would like us to help arrange an interpreter on your behalf, please let us know at least a few days before your appointment so we have time to organise it.

What to tell us when you book

Useful things to mention:

Which language you are most comfortable in
Whether you would like an interpreter (and if so, in person or by phone/video)
Whether you are bringing a family member or friend to help
Any specific accessibility needs — see our accessibility page
Any medical conditions or medications that we should know about — see our medication and dental treatment page

What an interpreter-supported visit looks like

Visits with an interpreter usually run a little longer than usual, simply because everything is being said twice. We allow extra time so nothing feels rushed. A typical interpreter-supported appointment includes:

A clear introduction so everyone knows who is in the room
Going through your medical and dental history in your preferred language
A full examination, with us pausing for translation between each step
Showing photos, X-rays, or a diagram on screen
Talking through any findings and treatment options in plain language
A written treatment plan and itemised quote to take home

Children and family

If you are bringing a child to their appointment and would like the discussion to be in your preferred language, the same options apply — bring a bilingual family member, or let us know if you would like us to arrange an interpreter. We try to avoid placing children in the role of translating complex medical information for parents wherever possible; a dedicated interpreter is usually more comfortable for everyone.

Translation of written information

The Australian Government’s Health Translations directory has reliable patient information in many languages, and we are happy to point patients towards resources that suit their language. We can also prepare a printed treatment plan and quote in English that can be translated at home or shared with family.

Cultural considerations

If there are cultural preferences that affect your dental visit — modesty considerations, fasting practices during religious observances, a preference for a same-gender clinician where possible, or specific arrangements around touch — please let us know. We will do our best to accommodate within the realities of the practice.

What we will be honest about

We want to be upfront. Our clinical team primarily speaks English. We will work with you and with an interpreter to make sure your appointment goes smoothly, but we do not advertise any specific in-house language other than English. The interpreter or family member you choose carries the bridge between languages — and we will make sure they have the time and space to do that well.

Confidentiality with interpreters

Professional interpreters arranged through services like TIS National are bound by confidentiality obligations. Family members and friends helping informally are not bound by the same formal obligations, so think about who you are comfortable having present — particularly when discussing sensitive medical history. Either option is fine — it is your choice.

Language support FAQs

Do you have staff who speak languages other than English?

Our clinical team primarily speaks English. Rather than claim languages we do not consistently offer, we would rather plan a translator or interpreter for your appointment so the conversation is as clear as possible.

How do I arrange an interpreter?

Let us know at booking and we will help organise one. Many patients use TIS National (a free Australian Government interpreter service) for healthcare appointments, and we can support that too.

Is there a fee for an interpreter?

If you arrange a family member, friend, or community member to interpret, there is no additional cost. Government-funded interpreting (e.g. TIS National) is often free for the patient in healthcare settings. Privately arranged professional interpreters may charge — that arrangement sits between you and the interpreter.

Can my child interpret for me?

It is your choice, but we generally recommend a dedicated interpreter for adult medical conversations, particularly when discussing medications, treatment options, or anything sensitive. Children are welcome at appointments — they just do not need to carry the responsibility of complex translation.

Will the appointment take longer?

Yes, usually a bit longer — we allow extra time when an interpreter is involved, so the conversation has room to breathe.

What if I just want a check-up and the language is straightforward?

Many patients with conversational English manage routine check-ups without an interpreter. For longer treatment discussions, an interpreter can still be useful. It is your call.

Can my whole family come in together?

Absolutely. Bringing family along for support is welcome, and we are happy to plan family appointments together where possible.

Related information

Book an appointment

If you would like us to help arrange an interpreter, please let us know at least a few days before your appointment. Otherwise, you are welcome to bring a family member or friend along. Book online or phone the practice during business hours.