Treatment Considerations and Risks
At Hoppers Crossing Dentist, your oral health and overall wellbeing are our priority. All our clinicians are registered with AHPRA and provide care with highest standards and utmost care.
Before commencing any dental treatment, a thorough consultation with a qualified professional is recommended. Some treatments may require multiple appointments beyond your consultation to fully assess your oral health, determine suitable treatment options, determine associated risks and plan the care required to achieve your desired smile outcomes or address dental concerns.
The information below on treatment risks and considerations for cosmetic and surgical procedures is general in nature and does not replace personalised clinical consultations. Additional factors may apply depending on your individual oral health, medical history, habits affecting oral health and circumstances. All surgical and invasive procedures carry risks. A second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner is recommended before undergoing a high-risk or complex treatment.
Eligibility Criteria
- A short adjustment period to new shape, size, and bite
- Untreated decay or active gum disease must be treated prior to undergoing veneer treatment.
What to Expect Immediately After Treatment
- A short adjustment period to new shape, size, and bite
- Temporary sensitivity may occur as a result of removal of a thin layer of enamel to prepare your tooth for veneer adhesion. Prolonged sensitivity is uncommon but not impossible and should be assessed if it persists.
Post-Treatment Risks and Care
- Tooth preparation may involve irreversible removal of enamel, particularly for porcelain veneers
- Veneers may be damaged under excessive force; therefore, habits such as using teeth as tools or biting on hard objects should be avoided
- Smoking may reduce the longevity of cosmetic dental work due to staining, as well as its impact on surrounding gums and natural teeth and delayed healing
- Commitment to good oral hygiene and regular check-up and clean are essential to avoid plaque build-up around the veneers
- Patients who grind or clench may require a nightguard
- Underlying tooth decay or gum changes may affect appearance over time
Replacement Frequency
- Veneers are not permanent and may require replacement/repairs in the future
- Replacement may be required due to wear, stain, damage or gum recession
Eligibility Criteria
- Minor cosmetic concerns such as chips, gaps, or small irregularities
- Healthy teeth and gums
What to Expect Immediately After Treatment
- Possible temporary numbness if local anaesthetic is used
- Mild sensitivity or soreness for a few days
- Short adjustment period for speech and bite
Post-Treatment Risks and Care
- Bonding material may chip, stain, or wear over time
- Habits such as smoking, grinding and chewing on hard objects may impact the appearance and shape of a bonded tooth
- Maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental visits is essential to avoid plaque build-up
Maintenance
- May require touch-ups or replacement every few years depending on wear or stain
Eligibility Criteria
- Healthy teeth without untreated decay or gum disease
- Realistic expectations of achievable shade change
- A check-up and clean may be recommended prior to treatment
What to Expect Immediately After Treatment
- Noticeable improvement in the shade of natural teeth only. Restorations such as crowns, veneers, and fillings will not change colour with whitening treatment.
- Temporary sensitivity or gum irritation may occur
Post-Treatment Risks and Care
- Results vary and cannot be guaranteed
- Dietary and lifestyle habits that causes teeth staining affects longevity of the treatment
- Untreated dental issues may be aggravated by whitening chemicals
- Teeth whitening alone may not be enough to address all types of tooth discolouration, particularly deep, intrinsic, or severe yellowing. In such cases, alternative cosmetic dental treatments may be recommended.
Maintenance
- Results are not permanent and may fade within 3 to 6 months
- Periodic top-ups or at-home whitening may be recommended to maintain the results
Eligibility Criteria
- Healthy teeth, gums and supporting bone
- Mild to moderate alignment or bite concerns
- Commitment to wearing aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily
What to Expect During the Treatment
- Treatment duration varies, typically several months or longer
- May involve interproximal reduction (minor enamel reshaping) or attachments
- At Hoppers Crossing Dentist, we offer multiple brands of aligners. The recommended brand or options depend on the clinical needs and budget of patients.
- Temporary discomfort for the first few days when switching to a new set of aligners is common due to the new pressure applied to the teeth.
- Speech may be temporarily affected at the beginning of aligner treatment as you adjust to having the appliance in your mouth.
- Compliance of wearing aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours each day is essential to achieve desired outcomes.
- In case of active tooth decay or undetected cavities, clear aligners may contribute to the progression of these conditions if not identified and treated prior to commencing treatment
- Inadequate oral hygiene during treatment may also lead to the build-up of plaque, food debris, and bacteria on both the teeth and aligners, increasing the risk of decay, gum inflammation and other oral health complications
Post-Treatment Risks and Care
- Retainers are required to maintain results
- Teeth may shift if retainers are not worn as advised
- Additional costs may apply for replacement retainers or further treatment
Eligibility Criteria
- Adequate bone to support the implant or suitability for grafting procedures
- Healthy gums and no active infection
- No uncontrolled medical conditions affecting healing
What to Expect Immediately After Treatment
- Healing phase (osseointegration) typically takes 3 months
- Swelling, bruising, or mild discomfort may occur during the healing phase
- Temporary dietary restrictions may be required to allow healing
Post-Treatment Risks and Care
- Risks include infection, implant failure if proper healing conditions are not maintained, or if there is inadequate bone support, poor oral hygiene, or other underlying health factors affecting healing.
- Smoking and poor oral hygiene can adversely affect healing and significantly increase the risk of implant failure, infection, and long-term complications
- Regular dental reviews, dental hygiene and regular professional clean are essential to maintain the success rate of the dental implants.
Maintenance
- Implants are designed as a long-term solution
- The crown may require replacement over time