Treatment Information & Considerations
At Ashton Avenue Dental, 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.
Implants - Information and Risks
Implants and All-on-4 Treatment or All-on-6 Implants Information and Risks
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 Implants and All-on-4 Treatment or All-on-6 Implants 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.
These treatments carry their own risks and costs. Your dentist will explain if they are recommended for you.
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.
Lower Jaw
- 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.
Post-Surgical Risks
- 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.
Recovery: What to Expect After Surgery
- 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.
Porcelain Veneers - Important Information and Risks
At Ashton Avenue Dental, we offer porcelain veneers as a restorative dental solution to address various functional concerns. Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front surfaces of teeth. It is designed to enhance both the function and durability of your dental structures.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are crafted to match the contours and alignment of your teeth. They serve to:
- Restore teeth with minor chips or fractures
- Reinforce teeth weakened by erosion or wear
- Correct slight misalignments or irregularities in tooth positioning
- Protect teeth from further damage due to external factors
These veneers are designed to integrate seamlessly with your teeth, providing a durable and functional solution to these dental issues.
The Treatment Process at Ashton Avenue Dental
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Assessment
Your treatment begins with a comprehensive examination by our experienced dental team. During this consultation, we will:
- Evaluate your oral health
- Discuss your specific dental concerns and goals
- Determine the suitability of porcelain veneers for your needs
Step 2: Preparation and Impressions
If veneers are deemed appropriate, the next step involves:
- Removing a small layer of enamel from the affected teeth to accommodate the veneer
- Taking precise impressions or digital scans of your teeth to ensure a fit
Step 3: Fabrication and Bonding
The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where your custom veneers are created. Once ready:
- We will bond the veneers to your teeth using a strong adhesive
- Make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper fit and function
Important Considerations and Risks
While porcelain veneers are generally safe and effective, it’s important to be aware of potential considerations:
- Enamel Removal: A small amount of enamel is permanently removed to place the veneer.
- Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold.
- Durability: Veneers are strong but can be damaged by excessive force or habits like teeth grinding.
- Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent issues such as gum irritation or decay.
We recommend discussing these factors with our dental team to ensure veneers are the right choice for you.
Maintenance and Aftercare
To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your porcelain veneers:
- Regular Cleaning: Brush and floss your teeth regularly, using non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Refrain from chewing on hard objects or foods that could damage the veneers.
- Protective Measures: Consider wearing a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or participate in contact sports.
- Routine Check-ups: Schedule regular dental visits to monitor the condition of your veneers and overall oral health.
Cost and Payment Options
At Ashton Avenue Dental, we strive to make quality dental care accessible:
- Health Fund Rebates: We accept all major health funds and are preferred providers for Bupa, HBF, and HCF, which may offer additional benefits.
- Payment Plans: Flexible payment options, including Denticare and NDP, are available to help manage the cost of your treatment.
For specific pricing and to discuss payment options, please contact our clinic directly.
Disclaimer: Treatment outcomes may vary between patients. Information provided here is factual and designed to help patients make informed decisions. Consult a qualified dental professional for advice specific to your circumstances.
Orthodontic Treatment -Information and Risks
At Ashton Avenue Dental, we offer both conventional braces and clear aligner treatments as functional orthodontic options for patients seeking improved tooth alignment and bite function. Clear aligners are custom-made, removable trays designed to gradually move teeth into their intended positions, while conventional braces provide a fixed solution for controlled tooth movement. Our team develops a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific oral health needs.
Understanding Clear Aligners
Consultation and Assessment: Each treatment begins with a detailed assessment of oral health, dental history, and alignment requirements.
Custom Treatment Devices: Clear aligners are created using precise technology to guide teeth gradually into position. Braces use brackets and wires to achieve controlled adjustments.
Sequential Progression: Patients typically change aligners every few weeks or attend regular appointments for brace adjustments, depending on the treatment plan.
Removable vs. Fixed: Aligners can be removed during meals and oral hygiene routines, supporting easier cleaning of teeth and gums. Braces remain fixed but provide continuous, controlled tooth movement.
Functional Benefits of Clear Aligners
- Provide a discreet alternative to improve bite and tooth alignment.
- Removable trays make it convenient to clean your teeth and maintain oral hygiene during treatment.
- Designed to sit comfortably in the mouth for everyday function.
- Progress is planned and reviewed by the dental team.
Possible Risks and Effects of Clear Aligners
Orthodontic treatment, including clear aligners, may involve some risks or side effects:
- Temporary discomfort or pressure when starting treatment or after adjustments.
- Mild changes in speech while adjusting to trays.
- Gum or soft tissue irritation in some cases.
- Slower progress if aligners are not worn as advised.
- Rarely, unexpected tooth movement outcomes.
Our dental team will discuss these considerations with you before treatment begins.
Maintenance and Aftercare of Clear Aligners
- Wearing Schedule: Aligners should be worn for most of the day, as advised by your dentist.
- Cleaning Routine: Aligners should be cleaned regularly, and teeth should be brushed and flossed before reinserting.
- Follow-up Appointments: Regular appointments help monitor progress and allow adjustments if needed.
- Post-Treatment Retainers: Retainers may be recommended after treatment to help maintain tooth position.
Understanding Braces
Consultation and Assessment: Treatment begins with a thorough assessment of your oral health, dental history, and alignment needs.
Custom Treatment Devices: Braces utilise brackets and wires to move teeth into the desired position gradually. Clear aligners offer a removable alternative.
Sequential Progression: Braces are adjusted periodically by your dental professional to guide teeth along a planned course of movement.
Fixed vs Removable: Braces are fixed to the teeth, offering continuous and controlled movement. Unlike aligners, they cannot be removed, but they provide precise alignment for a wide range of cases.
Functional Benefits of Braces
- Offer a reliable option to correct bite issues and tooth positioning gradually.
- Fixed brackets help guide teeth into place under controlled adjustments.
- Suitable for a wide range of alignment needs, including more complex cases.
- Treatment is overseen and adjusted by the experienced dentists.
Possible Risks and Effects of Braces
Braces may also involve some risks or side effects:
- Discomfort or soreness following adjustments.
- Potential irritation of gums, lips, or cheeks.
- Care is needed to prevent damage to brackets and wires.
- Rarely, teeth may move differently than expected.
Maintenance and Aftercare of Braces
- Adherence to Instructions: Follow all guidance provided by your dental professional for optimal results.
- Cleaning Routine: Brush and floss carefully around brackets and wires to maintain oral hygiene.
- Follow-up Appointments: Attend regular check-ups for monitoring and adjustments.
- Post-Treatment Retainers: Retainers may be advised to maintain the position of teeth after braces.
Disclaimer: Treatment outcomes vary among patients. The suitability of aligners and the expected results depend on individual circumstances, including oral health conditions and adherence to the treatment plan. Our dental team provides personalised guidance following a professional consultation.
