At East Geelong Dental Practice, your health and well-being come first. Our AHPRA‑registered dentists focus on preventive, minimally invasive care, tailoring treatments to your individual needs. Using advanced technology, we conduct thorough consultations and assessments to recommend the safest and most effective options, while ensuring you understand any potential risks associated with procedures.
Important Information Before Dental Implant Treatment
Dental implants involve the surgical placement of a biocompatible titanium root into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth (crown), helping restore the function and appearance of your natural teeth. Implants may not be suitable for everyone; patients with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or bleeding disorders, may have a higher risk of complications or implant failure.
Before your surgical procedure, your dentist may recommend changes to your daily habits to support healing and long-term success. For example, quitting smoking and making adjustments to your diet can improve outcomes. Some changes may need to be made well in advance to ensure your mouth and general health are ready for surgery.
Your dentist will provide personalised guidance on what applies to your situation.
Additional Procedures
In some cases, supporting procedures may be required alongside your implant treatment to ensure stability and long-term results. These may include:
General Risks and Considerations
All dental procedures carry some risks. Before proceeding, you may wish to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Alternative treatment options may also be available.
Treatment is usually completed over 3–6 visits, depending on your case. Most people can return to normal daily activities within a few days, though some may need additional time for recovery.
Healing times vary, but most patients feel settled within two weeks after surgery. Long-term maintenance is essential. Your dentist will provide a personalised care plan, which may involve ongoing costs. Surgical Risks Upper Jaw
Dental implants involve the surgical placement of a biocompatible titanium root into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth (crown), helping restore the function and appearance of your natural teeth. Implants may not be suitable for everyone; patients with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or bleeding disorders, may have a higher risk of complications or implant failure.
Before your surgical procedure, your dentist may recommend changes to your daily habits to support healing and long-term success. For example, quitting smoking and making adjustments to your diet can improve outcomes. Some changes may need to be made well in advance to ensure your mouth and general health are ready for surgery.
Your dentist will provide personalised guidance on what applies to your situation.
Additional Procedures
In some cases, supporting procedures may be required alongside your implant treatment to ensure stability and long-term results. These may include:
- Bone grafting – adding bone where needed to support the implant.
- Sinus lift – creating more space in the upper jaw so implants can be placed securely.
- Gum augmentation – improving gum volume or quality.
General Risks and Considerations
All dental procedures carry some risks. Before proceeding, you may wish to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Alternative treatment options may also be available.
Treatment is usually completed over 3–6 visits, depending on your case. Most people can return to normal daily activities within a few days, though some may need additional time for recovery.
Healing times vary, but most patients feel settled within two weeks after surgery. Long-term maintenance is essential. Your dentist will provide a personalised care plan, which may involve ongoing costs. Surgical Risks Upper Jaw
- Implants are placed close to the sinuses, where bone quality may be less dense.
- Rare complications include sinus entry, bone fracture, or poor implant stability.
- Additional procedures may be required if this occurs.
- Implants are placed near nerves that supply feeling to the lips, chin, and tongue.
- Rarely, nerve irritation or swelling may cause temporary numbness or tingling.
- In very rare cases, altered sensation may be prolonged or permanent.
- In some cases, implants may not be stable enough to support an immediate fixed prosthesis. A temporary removable appliance may be needed during healing.
- Very rarely, implants may fail to integrate with the bone (“implant failure”). If this occurs, the implant may need to be removed and replaced, sometimes with additional procedures.
- Regular monitoring every 4–6 months is essential to check implant health.
- Swelling & Bruising: Normal after surgery, usually peaking on day 4, then gradually reducing.
- Bleeding: May occur for 24–48 hours after surgery.
- Pain/Discomfort: Expected for 1–2 weeks, manageable with prescribed medication.
- Activity: Avoid strenuous activity for 24–48 hours. Sports and gym activities are best avoided for 7–10 days.
- Tiredness: Feeling weak or tired in the first 24 hours is common.
- Smoking: Strongly discouraged, as it significantly increases the risk of infection or implant failure.
- Diet: Cold, soft foods are recommended immediately after surgery.
- Time Off Work: You may need to take leave, depending on your treatment and recovery. Arrange for someone to assist you if your procedure involves general anaesthesia.
At East Geelong Dental Practice, we provide orthodontic treatment (clear aligners). Our services are designed to address functional concerns such as gaps between teeth and various bite misalignments, including overbite, underbite, deep bite, and crossbite. Treatments are structured to support optimal oral function and are provided by a team experienced in a range of alignment methods.
Treatment Pathway Overview
Initial Assessment and Planning Treatment begins with a detailed evaluation of oral health and alignment needs. Our dentists assess tooth spacing, bite irregularities, and overall functional concerns before recommending the most appropriate treatment options. Selection of Treatment Option Based on individual needs, we may recommend fixed braces or clear aligners (such as Invisalign). The choice is guided by the type of alignment issue and the functional goals of the patient.Functional Benefits
Orthodontic treatment at East Geelong Dental Practice can provide:- Improved Chewing Efficiency: Proper alignment distributes biting forces evenly, reducing strain on specific teeth and the jaw.
- Facilitated Oral Hygiene: Clear aligners can support easier cleaning compared to fixed appliances, reducing plaque accumulation.
- Controlled Tooth Movement: Both braces and aligners allow precise, predictable adjustments to shift teeth into functionally optimal positions.
Possible Risks and Considerations
While orthodontic treatment is generally safe, functional considerations may include:- Mild Discomfort or Pressure: Temporary discomfort may occur, particularly after adjustments or when new aligners are introduced.
- Hygiene Challenges: Appliances that are not cleaned thoroughly can trap plaque, increasing the risk of tooth decay or gum inflammation.
- Compliance-Dependent Outcomes: Results may vary if appliances, particularly aligners, are not worn or maintained as instructed.
- Adjustment Requirements: Occasional adjustments may be needed to address unexpected tooth movement or fit concerns.
Maintenance and Aftercare
- Consistent Wear or Care: Follow the recommended daily wear schedule for aligners. For braces, maintain thorough cleaning around all components.
- Oral Hygiene Routine: Brush and floss diligently, using aids like floss threaders if required to prevent plaque buildup.
- Scheduled Check-Ups: Regular appointments allow clinicians to monitor progress and make timely functional adjustments.
- Post-Treatment Support: Retainers may be recommended after active treatment to maintain tooth position and functional outcomes.
At East Geelong Dental Practice, our dental veneers service is designed to support both practical and functional improvements. Whether addressing tooth wear, minor chips, or uneven surfaces, our custom-fit ceramic or composite veneers are crafted to enhance tooth function and maintain structural integrity.
Functional Purpose of Veneers
Veneers are individually created shells that bond to the front surface of teeth to:
- Protect teeth affected by erosion, wear, or minor damage.
- Stabilise weakened surfaces that are prone to further deterioration.
- Correct slight misalignments that can affect biting efficiency.
- Support routine biting and ensure proper distribution of pressure.
Our dental team can advise whether ceramic or composite veneers are the most suitable choice based on functional needs.
Treatment Journey
Step 1: Assessment and Planning
Treatment begins with a detailed evaluation of oral health, tooth structure, and alignment. The dentist will discuss whether veneers are appropriate for functional improvement, alongside alternatives such as onlays or orthodontic adjustments.
Step 2: Preparation and Impression
If veneers are recommended, a minimal layer of enamel may be removed to accommodate the veneer. Precise digital scans or impressions are then taken to ensure an accurate functional fit.
Step 3: Manufacturing and Placement
Veneers are produced in a trusted dental laboratory and bonded to teeth using a suitable dental adhesive. Occlusion (bite alignment) is checked, and minor adjustments are made to optimise functional outcomes.
Possible Risks and Considerations
While veneer placement is routine, functional considerations may include:
- Permanent enamel adjustment is required for placement, which may increase sensitivity.
- Temporary sensitivity to temperature or pressure.
- Risk of veneers chipping or detaching under excessive force or grinding.
- Gum irritation may occur if hygiene is insufficient.
- Adjustments may be required post-placement to maintain functional comfort.
- Rare material sensitivities; patients should inform the dentist of known allergies or reactions.
These factors will be discussed during your consultation to support informed decision-making.
Maintenance and Aftercare
To preserve the functional lifespan of veneers:
- Maintain consistent oral hygiene, including daily brushing and flossing.
- Avoid hard or abrasive foods that could compromise the veneer.
- Attend regular check-ups to monitor fit and functional performance.
- If teeth grinding or clenching occurs, a protective night guard may be recommended.
With proper care, porcelain veneers may last 10 to 15 years, while composite options typically last 4 to 8 years.
Disclaimer: Treatment outcomes vary depending on oral health and individual factors. This information is provided to support informed healthcare decisions. Please consult with your dentist at East Geelong Dental Practice for advice tailored to your functional needs.