Treatment Information & Considerations
At Brunswick Life Dental Clinic, your oral health and overall well-being are our priority. Our AHPRA-registered dentists provide personalised, preventive, and minimally invasive care designed to support long-term dental health. With the help of modern technology, we carry out detailed consultations and assessments to guide you toward the most suitable treatment options. We ensure you receive clear information about the procedure, expected outcomes, and any potential risks, so you can make informed decisions about your care.
Dental Implants – Information and Risks
At Brunswick Life Dental Clinic, we help restore missing teeth by offering access to dental implants through our trusted network of dental professionals. Our goal is to provide durable, natural-looking options so you can eat, speak, and smile confidently.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are biocompatible “roots” that are typically made from either titanium or ceramic, surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a stable foundation for a replacement tooth (such as a crown). Over time, the implant bonds with the bone, mimicking the strength and function of a natural tooth.
Important Considerations Before Treatment
Health and Lifestyle Factors
- Implants may not be suitable for everyone that’s why your medical history will be assessed to identify any increased risk (for example, systemic conditions or healing concerns).
To improve healing and long-term success, your dentist may recommend lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking or adjusting your diet well before the procedure.
Your dentist at Brunswick Life Dental will give you personalised advice based on your health and goals.
Referral to an Experienced Dental Professional
- Brunswick Life Dental Clinic offers implant treatment via a network of experienced dentist.
During your consultation, we will help you understand whether implants, dentures, or bridges are the best solution for you.
Additional Procedures Sometimes Needed
Depending on your jawbone and gum condition, you may require supporting procedures, such as:
- Bone grafting to build up bone where there isn’t enough to place an implant.
Sinus lift in the upper jaw, to create space under the sinus for a secure implant.
Gum augmentation to improve the quality or volume of gum around the implant site.
These additional procedures involve their own risks, costs, and planning. We will thoroughly explain whether any of them apply to your case.
Potential Risks and Complications
While implant-supported restorations are common and effective, it’s important to be aware of possible risks:
Surgical Risks
- In the upper jaw, placing implants near the sinuses can be challenging. Complications may include sinus entry, bone fracture, or inadequate stability.
In the lower jaw, implants are often placed near nerves. This could lead to temporary numbness, tingling, or swelling. In very rare cases, sensory changes may last longer.
Healing and Integration
- Some implants may not integrate properly with the bone (“implant failure”). If this happens, removal and re-placement (possibly with further bone/gum work) may be needed.
You might not be able to immediately attach a permanent crown. A temporary appliance may be used while the implant heals.
Post-Surgical Risks
- Infection, bleeding, swelling, or bruising can occur after surgery.
Pain, discomfort, and sensitivity are expected during the initial healing period.
Long-term maintenance is critical, implants must be regularly monitored (for example, every 4–6 months) to ensure health and stability.
Recovery Expectations
Here’s a general idea of what happens after the surgical placement of an implant:
- Swelling and Bruising: Usually peaks around day 3 to 4, then gradually subsides.
Bleeding: May persist in the first 24 to 48 hours.
Pain/Discomfort: Common during the first week or two, manageable with prescribed pain relief.
Activity: Avoid strenuous activity for at least 24–48 hours. For more intense activity or gym workouts, consider waiting up to a week.
Diet: Cold, soft foods are recommended immediately after surgery to avoid stressing the surgical site.
Time Off Work: You may need a few days off, depending on the number of implants and the complexity of your procedure.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
To help ensure the success and longevity of your implants:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene, brush and clean around the implant carefully.
Attend regular check-ups so your dentistcan monitor how the implant is doing.
Avoid habits that stress the implant, such as heavy clenching or chewing very hard objects.
Discuss whether a night guard or other protective device is needed if you grind your teeth.
Disclaimer: Individual outcomes vary. The success of dental implants depends on many personal factors, including bone quality, oral hygiene, and health habits. This information is intended to help you make an informed decision. It’s not a substitute for a professional consultation with one of our dentists.
Dental Veneers & Crowns – Important Information and Risks
At Brunswick Life Dental Clinic, dental crowns or veneers are provided to support functional improvement. Veneers may be suggested for concerns such as worn enamel, minor chips, small shape irregularities, or mild misalignment. Each crown or veneer is custom-made to enhance the strength, symmetry, and long-term function of your natural teeth.
Functional Purpose of Crowns or Veneers
Our veneers are designed to improve oral function and comfort by:
- Reinforcing weakened or worn tooth surfaces, helping prevent further deterioration.
- Improving bite efficiency in cases where minor misalignment affects chewing.
- Distributing biting pressure more evenly, supports long-term tooth integrity.
- Covering chips, cracks, or surface defects that may affect function and appearance.
During your consultation, our dentists will guide you through whether crowns or veneers are the appropriate option for your dental needs. We may also discuss alternatives such as composite additions, or orthodontic treatment when suitable.
Your Veneer Treatment Process
Step 1: Comprehensive Examination and Planning
Your crown or veneer journey begins with a detailed assessment of your teeth, gums, and bite. We assess suitability, discuss expected outcomes, and explain the most appropriate materials typically porcelain or composite based on your goals and oral health.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation and Impressions
A minimal amount of tooth enamel and dentine may be adjusted to create space for the veneer. We then take precise impressions to ensure the crown or veneer fits comfortably and blends naturally with neighbouring teeth.
Step 3: Veneer Fabrication and Bonding
Your custom crowns or veneers are crafted by a trusted dental laboratory. Once ready, they are placed and bonded using high-quality dental adhesives. Your bite is checked carefully, and small adjustments may be made to maximise comfort and function.
Possible Risks and Considerations
Although crowns or veneers are a routine dental procedure, potential considerations include:
- Permanent enamel reduction, which may increase sensitivity.
Temporary sensitivity to temperature or pressure after preparation and placement.
Chipping or cracking, especially if exposed to heavy biting forces or grinding.
Detachment if excessive strain is applied.
Gum irritation if hygiene is not maintained.
Material sensitivities, which should be discussed prior to treatment if you have known allergies.
Our team encourages open discussion during your appointment so you fully understand the benefits, limitations, and risks before proceeding.
Maintenance and Aftercare
To help your crowns or veneers function well over the long term:
- Maintain daily brushing and interdental cleaning with floss or interdental brushes such as Piksters to reduce plaque, maintain the integrity of the bond between the tooth and crown or veneer and protect gum health.
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In the case of veneers, avoid biting hard objects such as ice, nutshells, or very hard foods.
Attend regular check-ups so we can monitor the condition and bite alignment.
Consider a night guard (occlusal splint) if you clench or grind your teeth.
With good care, ceramic veneers commonly last many years. Composite veneers may have a shorter lifespan due to material differences. Your dentist will explain what to expect based on your oral health and chosen material.
Disclaimer: Individual results vary depending on dental health, habits, and personal factors. This information supports informed decision-making and does not replace professional advice. Please speak with a dentist at Brunswick Life Dental Clinic for personalised recommendations tailored to your situation.
Dental Extractions – Information and Risks
At Brunswick Life Dental Clinic, tooth removal is recommended only when it is an appropriate option to support your long-term oral health. Our AHPRA-registered dentists focuses on preserving natural teeth wherever possible, and extraction is considered only after careful assessment, photographs, and necessary X-rays. We ensure you receive clear information about the reasons for removal, expected outcomes, and any potential risks so you can make an informed decision.
What Are Dental Extractions?
A dental extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket. Extractions can be simple when the tooth is visible and easy to access or surgical, which may involve lifting the gum or sectioning the tooth. Wisdom teeth often fall into the surgical category due to their position or impaction. Your dentist will explain the type of extraction you need and what the procedure involves.
Important Considerations Before Treatment
Health and Lifestyle Factors
- Your medical history will be reviewed to identify factors that may increase the risk of complications, such as concerns about healing, certain medications, or systemic health conditions.
Lifestyle habits such as smoking or vaping may delay healing; your dentist may recommend making adjustments before and after the procedure.
Assessment and Treatment Planning
- X-rays are required to assess the roots, surrounding bone, and nearby structures such as sinuses or nerves.
Your dentist will check whether the tooth can be saved through fillings, crowns, or root canal treatment before recommending removal.
Replacement Options
- After extraction, nearby teeth may shift over time. Your dentist may discuss long-term replacement options such as implants, dentures, or bridges.
Potential Risks and Complications
While extractions are standard procedures, it is essential to be aware of possible risks:
Surgical Risks
- For upper molars, there is a close relationship to the sinus. In some cases, sinus involvement may occur and require additional care.
In lower molars, especially wisdom teeth, the roots may sit close to nerves. This may lead to temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, or altered sensation. Long-lasting sensory changes are uncommon but possible.
Healing and Post-Surgical Risks
- Dry socket (loss of the protective blood clot) can cause discomfort and delay healing.
Infection, swelling, bruising, or bleeding.
Discomfort when opening the mouth or jaw stiffness after surgery.
Your dentist will explain your individual risk level based on your anatomy and tooth position.
Recovery Expectations
- Bleeding: Light bleeding may persist for the first 24–48 hours.
Swelling and Bruising: Common after surgical extractions; usually peaks around day 2–3.
Pain/Discomfort: Expected during early healing and manageable with recommended pain relief.
Activity: Avoid strenuous activity for at least 24–48 hours.
Diet: Soft foods are recommended to avoid pressure on the surgical area.
Time Off Work: Depends on the complexity of your extraction.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
To support proper healing and long-term oral health:
- Follow all after-care instructions carefully.
Maintain excellent oral hygiene around the surrounding teeth.
Attend follow-up appointments if recommended.
Discuss replacement options if the removed tooth affects function or alignment.
Disclaimer
Individual outcomes vary. The success of healing after a dental extraction depends on personal factors, including gum health, bone condition, oral hygiene, and lifestyle habits. This information is intended to help you make an informed decision and is not a substitute for a professional consultation with one of our dentists.
Root Canal Treatment – Information and Risks
At Brunswick Life Dental Clinic, root canal treatment is recommended when the nerve inside a tooth is irreversibly inflamed or infected. Our AHPRA-registered dentists assess each case carefully to help preserve natural teeth where possible. We provide clear information about the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes so you can make a confident, informed decision.
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment involves removing the inflamed or infected nerve tissue from inside the tooth, cleaning and shaping the internal canals, and sealing them to reduce the risk of reinfection. After the procedure, a crown or other restoration is often recommended to strengthen the tooth and protect it from future damage.
Important Considerations Before Treatment
Assessment and Diagnosis
- Your dentist will assess your symptoms, take X-rays, and perform clinical tests to determine whether a root canal is appropriate.
- They will also discuss whether alternative treatments such as extraction or restorative work may be suitable for your situation.
- Referral to a specialist endodontist is an option that may be recommended for teeth with complex root canal systems before or during treatment.
Tooth Structure and Restoration
Teeth that undergo root canal treatment may become more brittle over time with increased risk of crack propagation. A crown may be advised afterwards to protect the tooth from fractures and improve long-term stability.
Potential Risks and Complications
While root canal treatment is a routine procedure, it is vital to be aware of possible risks:
Treatment-Related Risks
- Temporary sensitivity or discomfort after treatment
- Narrow or curved canals that may be difficult to clean fully
- Instrument fracture inside the canal (rare)
- Persistent or recurrent infection, which may require additional treatment
- Fracture of the tooth if not properly restored afterwards
Your dentist will discuss any specific risks associated with your tooth based on X-ray findings.
Recovery Expectations
- Mild pressure, tenderness, or sensitivity for several days is common.
- Most people return to normal activities shortly after treatment.
- A temporary filling may be placed before the final restoration, which must not be delayed to avoid reinfection.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
To support the success of your treatment:
- Maintain excellent daily oral hygiene
Attend regular check-ups so your dentist can monitor the tooth
Avoid chewing very hard objects on the treated tooth
Follow recommendations for a crown or strengthening restoration
Disclaimer
Individual outcomes vary and, as with any treatment modality, not all root canal treatments are successful. The success of root canal treatment depends on factors such as tooth anatomy, oral hygiene, the quality of the restoration, and overall health. This information is intended to support informed decision-making and is not a substitute for a consultation with one of our dentists.
