Treatment Considerations and Risks

Understanding your treatment options is an important part of your dental care. At Box Hill Dental, we provide clear information about recommended treatments, including their potential risks, expected outcomes and ongoing maintenance requirements.

The information provided on this page is intended as general guidance for common dental treatments offered at Box Hill Dental. It should not replace a consultation with a registered dental practitioner. Before recommending any treatment, our dentists will perform a comprehensive examination, discuss your individual circumstances and explain the available treatment options, including the benefits, potential risks and expected maintenance requirements. This process helps ensure you can make an informed decision about your dental care.

Dental Veneers

Eligibility Criteria

Veneers are generally recommended for patients with healthy teeth and gums who would like to enhance the appearance of their smile.
A comprehensive dental assessment is required to determine whether veneers are the most appropriate treatment.
Any tooth decay, gum disease or other oral health issues should usually be addressed before veneer treatment begins.
Veneers may not be suitable for people with untreated teeth grinding (bruxism), significant bite problems or limited tooth enamel.
Whether porcelain or composite veneers are recommended will depend on your oral health, treatment goals and clinical assessment.

After Your Treatment

Some temporary sensitivity may occur after the teeth are prepared or veneers are placed. If the sensitivity persists, it is advisable to see the clinic urgently.
It is normal to need a short adjustment period while getting used to the feel of your new veneers.
Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups helps protect both the veneers and surrounding teeth.

Ongoing Care and Risks

Veneers can become chipped, cracked or damaged by trauma or excessive biting pressure.
Gum recession over time may expose the margins of the veneers.
Veneers do not eliminate the risk of tooth decay, making daily oral hygiene essential.
Patients who clench or grind their teeth may be advised to wear a custom-made nightguard.
Regular examinations allow your dentist to monitor the veneers and surrounding oral tissues.

Expected Lifespan

The lifespan of veneers varies according to oral hygiene, dietary habits, bite forces, lifestyle and routine dental care.
Over time, veneers may require polishing, repairs or replacement. Composite veneers typically last around 4–8 years, while porcelain veneers commonly last 10–15 years with appropriate care.

Teeth Whitening

Eligibility Criteria

Teeth whitening is generally suitable for adults with healthy teeth and gums.
A dental examination is recommended before treatment to confirm whitening is appropriate.
Whitening may not be recommended for patients with untreated decay, gum disease or significant tooth sensitivity.
Existing crowns, veneers, fillings and other restorations usually do not respond to whitening treatment.

After Your Treatment

Temporary tooth sensitivity or mild gum irritation may occur.
Results differ between individuals depending on the type and severity of staining.
Teeth naturally darken over time due to ageing, diet and lifestyle factors.
The clinician will explain how to manage any sensitivity and maintain your results.

Ongoing Care and Risks

Teeth whitening does not permanently prevent future staining.
Coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco and strongly coloured foods may contribute to new discolouration.
Future maintenance whitening may be appropriate depending on your individual circumstances.
Good oral hygiene and routine professional cleans help maintain a brighter smile.

Expected Lifespan

Whitening results vary between patients and may last from several months to a few years, depending on oral hygiene, diet and lifestyle habits. Maintenance treatments may be recommended to preserve your preferred shade.

Dental Implants

Eligibility Criteria

Dental implants may be an option for adults replacing one or more missing teeth.
A comprehensive examination, including appropriate imaging, is required before treatment.
Healthy gums and sufficient jawbone are important for successful implant placement.
Certain medical conditions, medications and smoking may affect healing and treatment success.
Some patients may require bone grafting or additional procedures before implants can be placed.

After Your Treatment

Mild swelling, bruising and discomfort are common following implant surgery.
Healing time differs depending on individual factors and treatment complexity.
The implant generally requires a healing period before the permanent restoration is attached.

Ongoing Care and Risks

As with any surgical procedure, risks include infection, bleeding, delayed healing and possible implant failure.
Smoking and poor oral hygiene increase the likelihood of complications.
Implants require daily cleaning and regular professional maintenance.
Inadequate plaque control may lead to peri-implant disease affecting the surrounding gum and bone.
Routine reviews help monitor the health and stability of your implant.

Expected Lifespan

Dental implants are designed to provide a long-term replacement for missing teeth. Their longevity depends on factors such as oral hygiene, medical history, smoking habits, bite forces and ongoing maintenance.
While the implant itself can last many years, the crown or other attached components may eventually require repair or replacement.

Composite Bonding

Eligibility Criteria

Composite bonding is used to repair chipped, worn or stained teeth or to close small gaps.
A clinical examination is required to determine whether bonding is appropriate.
Healthy teeth and gums are generally recommended before treatment.
Bonding may not be suitable where there is extensive tooth damage or excessive biting pressure.

After Your Treatment

Bonded teeth can usually be used normally immediately after treatment.
Some patients experience mild temporary sensitivity.

Ongoing Care and Risks

Composite material can stain, chip or wear over time.
Biting hard foods or using teeth to open objects increases the risk of damage.
Good oral hygiene and regular dental examinations help maintain bonded restorations.
Polishing or repairs may occasionally be required.

Expected Lifespan

The durability of composite bonding varies according to oral hygiene, diet, lifestyle and bite forces. Over time, repairs or replacement may become necessary as the material naturally wears.

Dental Crowns

Eligibility Criteria

Dental crowns are commonly recommended for teeth that are weakened, heavily restored, cracked or significantly worn.
A thorough examination is required to determine whether a crown is the most appropriate treatment.
Existing gum disease or infection should usually be treated before crown placement.
Some teeth may require root canal treatment before receiving a crown.

After Your Treatment

Temporary sensitivity to temperature changes or biting pressure may occur after the tooth is prepared.
It is normal to need a short period to adjust to the new crown.

Ongoing Care and Risks

Crowns may chip, fracture or loosen over time.
Tooth decay can still develop around the crown margins if oral hygiene is inadequate.
The supporting tooth and surrounding gums remain susceptible to gum disease.
Regular dental examinations help monitor both the crown and surrounding tissues.
Patients who grind or clench their teeth may benefit from wearing a custom nightguard.

Expected Lifespan

Dental crowns are intended to provide long-term protection and function. Their lifespan depends on the material used, oral hygiene, dietary habits, bite forces and routine dental care. As they age, crowns may eventually require maintenance, repair or replacement.