Search the Register of practitioners on the Ahpra website. It lists practitioners who are registered to practise and shows any conditions on their registration. A practitioner may be registered under a different name from the one they use day to day, so you can also ask the practice for the registration number.

Dentists provide general dental care. Some dentists have extra training and registration in a specialty, such as orthodontics, and can use the protected specialist title. Dental care may also be provided by oral health therapists and dental hygienists. If a title matters to you, ask the practice or check the Ahpra register.

It depends on your own oral health. Government health information suggests a check-up at least once a year, and some sources suggest more often. Ask your dentist how often is right for you.

The dentist usually asks about your general health and medicines, then checks your teeth, gums, tongue, lips, cheeks and palate. X-rays may be taken if a problem is hard to see. If a problem is found, the dentist should explain your options and give you an estimate of cost and time. What happens can vary between practices.

Contact a dental practice as soon as you can. Call 000 or go to a hospital emergency department if you have trouble breathing, speaking or swallowing, heavy bleeding, or swelling around the eye or neck. Healthdirect has more information on toothache, gum swelling and dental injuries. This is general information, not medical advice.

Costs vary between practices and treatments, because each practice sets its own fees. Ask for a written quote or treatment plan before you agree to treatment, ask about payment options, and ask your health fund what it covers.

Medicare does not generally cover dental care. The Child Dental Benefits Schedule covers some basic dental services for eligible children. Private health insurance with extras cover may pay part of the cost, and policies differ, so check with your fund before treatment.

State and territory governments provide public dental services for eligible people, such as children and adults with a concession card. Eligibility, services and waiting times differ by state and territory, so check with your state or territory health department.

It depends on the specialty and the practice. For example, healthdirect says you do not need a referral to see an orthodontist. Other specialist practices may ask for a referral, so check with the practice when you book.