(03) 7057 8350
Book Online

Treatment Considerations and Risks

At Harpley Dental, we believe patients should have a clear understanding of any treatment they are considering. Every person’s oral health needs are different, and the suitability, outcomes, and longevity of treatment can vary depending on individual circumstances.

The information below provides general guidance about some of our treatments. A comprehensive examination and consultation are required to determine whether a particular treatment is appropriate.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Dental veneers may be suitable for patients looking to improve the appearance of teeth affected by discolouration, minor chips, uneven shapes, small gaps, or mild alignment concerns.
  • Suitable candidates should have generally healthy teeth and gums and enough healthy tooth structure to support the veneers.
  • Patients with untreated tooth decay, active gum disease, or habits such as teeth grinding may require treatment or management before veneers are considered.

What to Expect After Treatment Begins

  • Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity following tooth preparation or veneer placement, particularly when consuming hot or cold foods and drinks.
  • It takes a short period to become accustomed to the feel of the veneers, although most patients adapt quickly. Follow-up appointments may be required to assess comfort, fit, and bite.

Risks & Ongoing Care

  • As with any dental treatment, veneers have limitations and potential risks. Veneers may chip, crack, loosen, or require replacement over time.
  • Maintaining good oral hygiene, attending regular dental examinations and cleans, avoiding using teeth to bite hard objects, and wearing a custom mouthguard if teeth grinding is present can help protect the veneers.
  • Veneers do not prevent tooth decay or gum disease, so ongoing preventive care remains important.

Expected Longevity

  • The lifespan of dental veneers depends on the material used, oral hygiene, bite forces, and lifestyle habits. Composite veneers generally last 4–7 years, while porcelain veneers commonly last 10–15 years or longer with appropriate care and regular maintenance.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Professional teeth whitening may be suitable for adults with healthy teeth and gums who wish to reduce staining or improve the brightness of their natural teeth.
  • It may not be appropriate for patients with untreated decay, gum disease, exposed tooth roots, significant tooth sensitivity, or certain types of tooth discolouration.
  • Existing crowns, veneers, fillings, and other restorations will not change colour during whitening treatment.

What to Expect After Treatment Begins

  • Some patients experience temporary tooth sensitivity or mild gum irritation following treatment. These effects are usually short-lived and resolve within a few days.
  • Whitening results vary between individuals depending on the original tooth shade, the type of staining present, and lifestyle factors.

Risks & Ongoing Care

  • Results are not permanent and teeth may gradually become stained again over time.
  • Limiting foods and drinks that commonly cause staining, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco products, may help maintain the result.
  • Good oral hygiene and regular professional cleans are recommended. Some patients may choose periodic touch-up treatments if clinically appropriate.

Expected Longevity

  • Whitening results commonly last 6 months to 2 years, depending on oral hygiene, dietary habits, smoking, and individual tooth characteristics. Periodic maintenance is recommended to help preserve the result.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Dental crowns and bridges may be recommended for teeth that are weakened, heavily restored, damaged, or missing.
  • Patients should have healthy supporting teeth and gums, or these conditions should be appropriately managed before treatment.
  • A comprehensive assessment is required to determine whether a crown, bridge, or another treatment option is most appropriate.

What to Expect After Treatment Begins

  • Some temporary sensitivity or mild discomfort can occur following tooth preparation.
  • Temporary restorations will be placed while the final crown or bridge is being fabricated. Once fitted, patients may require a short adjustment period as they become accustomed to the new restoration.

Risks & Ongoing Care

  • Crowns and bridges require adjustment, repair, or replacement over time due to wear, fracture, loosening, or changes to the supporting teeth or gums.
  • Good oral hygiene is essential, particularly around the margins of crowns and beneath bridges where plaque can accumulate.
  • Regular dental examinations allow the restoration and surrounding tissues to be monitored.

Expected Longevity

  • With appropriate care and maintenance, dental crowns and bridges commonly last 10–15 years, although many may last longer depending on oral hygiene, bite forces, the materials used, and regular professional care.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Dental implants may be suitable for adults with one or more missing teeth who have healthy gums and sufficient jawbone to support the implant.
  • Medical history, oral health, smoking status, and bone quality are among the factors considered during assessment.
  • In some cases, additional procedures such as bone grafting may be required before implant placement.

What to Expect After Treatment Begins

  • Dental implant treatment usually takes place over several months and can involve multiple appointments.
  • Mild swelling, bruising, discomfort, or minor bleeding can occur following implant placement and generally improves within a few days.
  • During the healing period, the implant integrates with the surrounding bone before the final restoration is attached.

Risks & Ongoing Care

  • As with any surgical procedure, dental implant treatment carries potential risks, including infection, delayed healing, implant failure, or complications related to surrounding teeth, nerves, or sinuses in certain situations.
  • Long-term success depends on maintaining good oral hygiene, attending regular dental examinations, and managing risk factors such as smoking or untreated gum disease. Dental implants require ongoing maintenance and professional monitoring.

Expected Longevity

  • With appropriate treatment planning, good oral hygiene, and regular professional maintenance, dental implants can function for 15 years or longer, with many lasting for decades. The implant crown or restoration requires maintenance or replacement over time due to normal wear.