Your Initial Visit

If you can identify with some of the symptoms we’ve listed and you’re interested in resolving your symptoms, please don’t hesitate to come in and see us. Dr Craig Duval can complete a number of assessments to determine whether your symptoms could be related to your bite and jaw joints (TMD).

We can resolve around 80% of TMD-related symptoms in 80% of people, and a full examination will allow us to determine if we can help you. Some patients get a 100% resolution of all their symptoms, but for some, we find that we offer referrals to others within the medical and allied health profession that are more suited to their needs.

Your initial visit at Designer Dental Studio will last approximately two hours. This may seem a lengthy appointment, but most of the time is actually spent out of the dental chair! We understand that you may have had pain and other symptoms for a long time, so it’s our priority to listen and ask questions. We need to fully understand your symptoms before we can make a correct diagnosis. 

Please take time to read through the following sequence, which outlines your initial visit.

• Practice Tour – On arrival, the team will take pleasure in showing you our unique facility! Designer Dental Studio is not a traditional dental surgery; there are many wonderful features which help to provide you with a positive dental experience.

We no longer have the barrier of a ‘front desk’ – instead, our patient lounge has a large flat-screen TV and comfortable sofas where you can relax. In our refreshment area you’ll find a De Longhi coffee machine (cappuccinos are popular), a wide range of teas, cold soft drinks, chilled purified water and both red and white wines. We encourage all our patients to try something when they come in for a visit!

Our vanity area provides a secluded spot to freshen up before or after your visit. We have complimentary toothbrushes and toothpaste available, and a range of delicious perfumes and hand creams for you to try. Our spacious bathroom adjoins the vanity area.

In each of our 4 state-of-the-art treatment rooms you’ll find an LCD screen mounted on the ceiling, above the dental chair. Our patients look forward to watching movies, television or listening to music during their treatment! We have massage mats for each dental chair, which combine heat and massage therapy. Neck cushions and blankets are also available to improve your comfort.

In addition to our treatment rooms, two private consultation rooms are available. These luxurious spaces allow us to discuss your treatment and financial options with you in a private and personal environment.

• Personal Records – Our team will spend about 15 minutes with you in a private consultation room, completing your Personal Records. This includes your contact details, thorough Medical and Dental History, and a digital photograph for your file.

• Interview – Dr Craig Duval will then meet with you in the consultation room to review your Medical and Dental History. He will ask you questions about your symptoms, and listen closely to your experiences. We would like to know about your past dental visits, and what you expect from your future dental visits. Dr Duval believes this interview to be a crucial part of your initial visit, and may spend more time on this one part than you’re used to doctors spending during an entire consultation!

• Clinical Examination – In one of our treatment rooms, Dr Duval will spend time examining every aspect of your oral health. This process includes:

• Intraoral examination – thorough inspection of each tooth in the mouth.
• Charting – recordings of existing fillings, new decay, cracks, tooth wear and chipping etc.
• Oral cancer screening – all soft tissues checked for abnormalities (important for smokers).
• Periodontal screening – assessment of gums for signs of gingivitis or gum disease.
• TMJ assessment – jaw joints checked for abnormalities.
• Muscle palpations – muscles of the head and neck checked for tenderness.
• Bite assessment – a diagnosis of your occlusion (bite) is made.
• Detailed radiographs – show any concerns between the teeth and underneath fillings.
• Full mouth radiograph – shows the full length of every tooth, and the jaw joints.

• Treatment Options – Once Dr Duval has made a complete diagnosis, we will know whether your symptoms are TMD-related, and therefore whether we can make a difference. Dr Duval will discuss his findings and a number of treatment options with you in a relaxed environment, with absolutely no pressure in a totally non confrontational way. We see our roles as diagnosing thoroughly and fully informing you of all your treatment options. We are prepared to support you in whichever treatment options you choose.

Designer Dental Studio is located at:
Suite 5a, Calamvale Shopping Centre
Corner Beaudesert Rd & Kameruka Street
Calamvale, Brisbane QLD, 4116 Australia

Telephone: (07) 3711 4999
Fax: (07) 3711 4888

Practice Hours: 8.30am - 5pm, Monday to Thursday