I HAVE DAMAGED TEETH
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
1
Porcelain Reconstruction
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.
2
Neuromuscular/TMJ Treatment
For those with teeth damage caused by grinding, we can use advanced techniques in neuromuscular treatment. By using specialty 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.
3
Dental Implants
For those with damage so severe that the tooth cannot be saved, single dental implant can be used to replace the tooth. A dental implant simulates a single tooth with its own ‘root’ and ‘crown’.
Porcelain Restorations
- Treatment Length: 6-8 weeks
- Treatment Longevity: 10-15 years
- Reversible? No
- Recovery Time: 1-2 days
- Treatment Cost: $+
Single Implants
- Treatment Length: 3 months
- Treatment Longevity: Implants = Lifetime | Implant Crown = 10-15 years
- Reversible? No
- Recovery Time: 1-2 weeks
- Treatment Cost: $$
Key Details
How long does treatment normally take?
- Porcelain Veneers – 6-8 weeks.
- Neuromuscular/ TMJ Treatment – treatment time varies per case.
- Single Dental Implants – 3 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 night-time clenching and grinding.
- Attend regular hygiene visits (every 6 months).
- Avoid smoking and/or vaping.
Does it hurt?
- The reality is many dental procedures cause discomfort of differing levels depending on the type and severity of the procedure. Our priority is to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible throughout all procedures. We also offer the option of sedation if you would prefer to sleep during treatment due to nerves or lengthy appointments.
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 adequate pain relief so you are comfortable during and after these appointments.
- 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.
Damaged teeth: Charlene’s Case Study
See the Difference for Yourself
Curious about what’s possible for your smile? Our Before & Afters page showcases real transformations from patients who, like you, were ready to discover their options. Explore cases by treatment type and main concern!
