What Can I Do About Damaged Teeth?
Accidents and injuries happen, and this can often leave teeth cracked, chipped or broken.
Alternatively, if you notice your teeth are gradually wearing down, you may be grinding your teeth. Whether you are grinding or have suffered dental trauma, it may be time to restore your oral health with one of our treatment options.
Treatment Options
Every dental case is different, and we invite you for a consultation so we can assess your situation and goals and provide a personalised recommendation. There is usually more than one option available to improve your smile or prevent future damage.
Porcelain Restorations
Porcelain restorations can come in the form of veneers, crowns, and on-lays. We use a combination of these porcelain restorations to rebuild broken down teeth, replace lost enamel and give a lifelike cosmetic result.
Neuromuscular TMJ Treatment
Get matched with a Dentist experienced in treating your condition.
For those with teeth damage caused by grinding, we can use advanced techniques in neuromuscular treatment. By using the latest equipment, we can find the correct bite that will prevent further grinding and subsequent damage. This bite position can be used to set up the correct function for your selected treatment.
Dental Implants
For those with damage so severe that the tooth cannot be saved, a single dental implant can be used to replace the tooth. A dental implant simulates a single tooth with its own ‘root’ and ‘crown’.
Get matched with a Dentist experienced in treating your condition.
Porcelain Restorations
Treatment length:
6-8 Weeks
Typical recovery time:
1-2 Days
Treatment longevity:
10-15 Years
Treatment cost:
$+
Reversible?
No
Single Implants
Treatment Length:
3-4 Months
Typical recovery Time:
1-2 Weeks
Treatment Longevity: Implants = lifetime Implant Crown = 10-15 years
Treatment cost:
$$
Reversible?
No
Key Details
How long does treatment normally take?
- Porcelain Veneers: 6-8 weeks.
- Neuromuscular/TMJ Treatment: varies per case.
- Single Dental Implants: 3-4 months.
How long does it last?
- Porcelain Veneers: 10 to 20+ years, when combined with aftercare.
- Neuromuscular/TMJ: varies depending on treatment choice.
- Implant usually lasts permanently, with the implant crown to be replaced every 10-15 years.
How do I maintain the desired outcome?
- Wear your night guard to protect the teeth from clenching and grinding while you sleep.
- Attend regular hygiene visits (every 6 months).
- Avoid smoking and/or vaping.
What is the expected recovery time?
- For porcelain bridges, you may experience a little sensitivity and tenderness after your preparation and insert appointments, but should be able to go about your day as usual. We can recommend or provide adequate pain relief and other tools so you are comfortable during and after these appointments. Your wellbeing is our priority.
- For implants, you may sedate for your appointment and take some pre-sedation medication the night before, but unfortunately this means you cannot drive to and from your appointment. We also advise taking your treatment day and the next day off work, as you may still be under the effects of the medication. We can supply a medical certificate for the time required in order to recover.
What are the key risks?
- Porcelain bridges and crowns are durable, but they are not indestructible. There is a risk of chipping or breakage, particularly if the bridge or crown is subjected to excessive force or pressure. This is why it is critical to wear a nightguard to prevent wear and tear.
- There are both avoidable (medical conditions, smoking and heavy grinding) and unavoidable (3-5% of cases worldwide) implant failures. Implant failures can be addressed by your dentist, but are most likely to be managed effectively when identified early, which is why ongoing hygiene and reviews are necessary.
- Ongoing maintenance is needed to maintain the desired treatment outcome, and patients must factor in the time and costs required in the future.
Move Toward the Smile You’ve Wanted
Hiding your smile or living with pain can affect your health and wellbeing. We aim to provide treatment outcomes that you love for years to come.