Dentist in Hervey Bay | Family Dental Care
Dentist in Hervey Bay | Family Dental Care
(07) 4317 4117
(07) 4317 4117
Book Now

Treatment Information & Considerations

At Viva Family Dental, your health and well-being come first. Our AHPRA‑registered dentists focus on preventive, minimally invasive care, tailoring treatments to your individual needs. Using advanced technology, we conduct thorough consultations and assessments to recommend the safest and most effective options, while ensuring you understand any potential risks associated with procedures.

Dental implants involve the surgical placement of a biocompatible titanium root into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth (crown), helping restore the function and appearance of your teeth. Implants may not be suitable for everyone; patients with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or bleeding disorders, may have a higher risk of complications or implant failure.

Important Information Before Dental Implant

Before your surgical procedure, your dentist may recommend changes to your daily habits to support healing and long-term success. For example, quitting smoking and making adjustments to your diet can improve outcomes. Some changes may need to be made well in advance to ensure your mouth and general health are ready for surgery.

Your dentist will provide personalised guidance on what applies to your situation.

Additional Procedures

In some cases, supporting procedures may be required alongside your implant to ensure stability and long-term results. These may include:

  • Bone grafting – adding bone where needed to support the implant.
  • Sinus lift – creating more space in the upper jaw so implants can be placed securely.
  • Gum augmentation – improving gum volume or quality.

These treatments carry their own risks and costs. Your dentist will explain if they are recommended for you.

General Risks and Considerations

All dental procedures carry some risks. Before proceeding, you may wish to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Alternative treatment options may also be available.

Treatment is usually completed over 3–6 visits, depending on your case. Most people can return to normal daily activities within a few days, though some may need additional time for recovery.

Healing times vary, but most patients feel settled within two weeks after surgery. Long-term maintenance is essential. Your dentist will provide a personalised care plan, which may involve ongoing costs.

Surgical Risks

Upper Jaw

  • Implants are placed close to the sinuses, where bone quality may be less dense.
  • Rare complications include sinus entry, bone fracture, or poor implant stability.
  • Additional procedures may be required if this occurs.

Lower Jaw

  • Implants are placed near nerves that supply feeling to the lips, chin, and tongue.
  • Rarely, nerve irritation or swelling may cause temporary numbness or tingling.
  • In very rare cases, altered sensation may be prolonged or permanent.

Post-Surgical Risks

  • In some cases, implants may not be stable enough to support an immediate fixed prosthesis. A temporary removable appliance may be needed during healing.
  • Very rarely, implants may fail to integrate with the bone (“implant failure”). If this occurs, the implant may need to be removed and replaced, sometimes with additional procedures.
  • Regular monitoring every 4–6 months is essential to check implant health.

Recovery: What to Expect After Surgery

  • Swelling & Bruising: Normal after surgery, usually peaking on day 4, then gradually reducing.
  • Bleeding: May occur for 24–48 hours after surgery.
  • Pain/Discomfort: Expected for 1–2 weeks, manageable with prescribed medication.
  • Activity: Avoid strenuous activity for 24–48 hours. Sports and gym activities are best avoided for 7–10 days.
  • Tiredness: Feeling weak or tired in the first 24 hours is common.
  • Smoking: Strongly discouraged, as it significantly increases the risk of infection or implant failure.
  • Diet: Cold, soft foods are recommended immediately after surgery.
  • Time Off Work: You may need to take leave, depending on your treatment and recovery. Arrange for someone to assist you if your procedure involves general anaesthesia.

At Viva Family Dental, we provide orthodontic treatment, including braces, clear aligners, and invisalign designed to address functional concerns such as gaps between teeth and various bite misalignments, including overbite, underbite, deep bite, and crossbite. Our orthodontic services focus on supporting oral function and are managed by a team experienced in a range of alignment techniques.

Treatment Pathway Overview

Our personalised orthodontic process includes:

Initial Assessment and Planning
 The treatment journey begins with a comprehensive assessment of oral health and alignment needs. We evaluate concerns such as tooth spacing and bite irregularities to determine the most suitable treatment options.

Selection of Treatment Option
 Depending on your functional requirements, we may recommend fixed braces or clear aligners (such as Invisalign). The choice of appliance is determined by the type of alignment issue and the desired functional outcome.

Functional Benefits

Orthodontic treatment at Viva Family Dental can support:

  • Improved Chewing Efficiency: Proper alignment helps distribute biting forces evenly, reducing strain on individual teeth or the jaw.

     

  • Simplified Oral Hygiene: Certain methods, particularly clear aligners, allow easier cleaning compared to fixed appliances.

     

  • Gradual, Controlled Movement: Braces and aligners use precise adjustments to move teeth into functional positions predictably.

     

Possible Risks and Considerations

Orthodontic treatment is generally safe, but may involve considerations tailored to each individual:

  • Mild Discomfort or Pressure: Temporary discomfort may occur during adjustments or when new aligners are used.

     

  • Soft Tissue Irritation: Fixed appliances may cause minor irritation to lips or gums in the initial stages or after adjustments.

     

  • Hygiene Challenges: Inadequately cleaned appliances can trap plaque, increasing the risk of decay or gum inflammation.

     

  • Compliance-Dependent Outcomes: Results may vary if appliances, particularly aligners, are not worn or maintained as advised.

     

  • Adjustment Needs: Occasional appointments may be required to correct unexpected tooth movement or fit issues.

     

Our staff will explain these considerations clearly during your consultation to support informed decision-making.

Maintenance and Aftercare

To ensure effective results and maintain function:

  • Consistent Wear or Care: Follow the recommended daily wear schedule for aligners and maintain cleaning for braces.

     

  • Oral Hygiene Routine: Brush and floss carefully, using floss threaders if necessary, to prevent plaque buildup around appliances.

     

  • Scheduled Check-Ups: Regular appointments allow clinicians to monitor progress and make timely adjustments.

     

  • Post-Treatment Support: Retainers may be advised after active adjustment to maintain tooth position and prevent relapse.

     

Disclaimer: Individual treatment outcomes vary depending on oral health and patient adherence. This information is provided to support informed healthcare decisions. Please consult with the dentists at Viva Family Dental for recommendations tailored to your specific circumstances.

At Viva Family Dental, our dental veneers service is designed to support practical functional improvement. Whether addressing wear, minor chips, or uneven surfaces, our custom-fit porcelain or composite veneers aim to enhance tooth function and structural integrity.

Functional Purpose of Veneers

Veneers are carefully crafted shells that bond to the front surface of teeth to:

  • Protect Teeth: Provide a protective layer for teeth affected by erosion, wear, or minor damage.
  • Stabilise Weak Surfaces: Reinforce teeth that are susceptible to further deterioration.
  • Support Biting Efficiency: Correct minor misalignments that affect functional biting.
  • Distribute Biting Forces: Improve durability for routine biting and pressure distribution.

Our team can guide you on whether porcelain or composite veneers are most appropriate for your functional needs.

Treatment Journey at Viva Family Dental

Step 1: Assessment and Planning
 Your treatment begins with a detailed evaluation. Our dentists review oral health, tooth structure, and alignment. We discuss whether veneers are a suitable functional option, alongside alternatives such as onlays or orthodontic adjustments.

Step 2: Preparation and Impression
 If veneers are recommended, a minimal layer of enamel may be removed to accommodate the veneer. Precise digital scans or impressions are taken to ensure a proper functional fit.

Step 3: Trial Phase with Temporary Shells
In some cases, a temporary layer (often called a “trial smile”) can be placed over the natural teeth after your consultation. This stage allows you to experience how veneers may function in your mouth before the final ones are made. The temporary shells can help identify if any adjustments are needed to support comfort, fit, or functional alignment with your bite and facial profile.

Step 4: Manufacturing and Placement
 Veneers are produced in a trusted dental laboratory. Once ready, they are bonded using a suitable dental adhesive. Occlusion (bite alignment) is checked, and minor adjustments are made to support optimal function.

Possible Risks and Considerations

Veneer placement is routine, but potential considerations include:

  • Permanent Enamel Adjustment: Placement may require enamel removal, which can increase sensitivity.
  • Temporary Sensitivity: Teeth may be temporarily sensitive to temperature or pressure.
  • Chipping or Detachment: Veneers can chip or detach under excessive force or grinding.
  • Gum Irritation: Inadequate hygiene can cause gum irritation.
  • Adjustment Requirements: Minor adjustments may be needed post-placement to ensure functional comfort.
  • Material Sensitivities: Rare, but inform us of known allergies or reactions before treatment.

These considerations will be discussed during your consultation to support informed decision-making.

Maintenance and Aftercare

To preserve the functional lifespan of veneers:

  • Maintain consistent oral hygiene, including daily brushing and flossing.
  • Avoid hard or abrasive foods that could damage veneers.
  • Attend regular check-ups to monitor fit and function.
  • If grinding or clenching occurs, a protective night guard may be recommended.
  • With proper care, porcelain veneers may last 10 to 15 years, while composite options typically last 4 to 8 years.

Disclaimer: Individual outcomes vary depending on oral health and patient-specific factors. This information is provided to support informed healthcare decisions. Please consult with the dentists at Viva Family Dental for recommendations tailored to your specific situation.

At Viva Dental, we offer non-surgical cosmetic treatments and therapeutic injectable treatments as part of our facial therapeutic services. These procedures are designed to support facial muscle balance and soft tissue structure. They may be considered for patients wishing to address functional concerns related to facial tension or volume changes.

Purpose of Wrinkle Reduction Treatments and Fillers

Wrinkle-reduction and filler procedures can be used to support muscle relaxation and soft-tissue structure in specific facial areas. These treatments may:

Assist Muscle Relaxation: Wrinkle-reduction injections can temporarily reduce muscle activity, which may help reduce the appearance of expression-related lines.

Support Tissue Volume: Therapeutic injectable treatments can provide structural support in areas where soft tissue has thinned or changed with time.

Aid Facial Symmetry: Treatment may help maintain proportional balance across facial regions.

Assist with Skin Smoothness: Fillers can provide support beneath the skin’s surface, helping it appear more even.

Support Structural Definition: Targeted areas such as the cheeks, chin, or jawline may be treated to enhance soft tissue support.

Your clinician will recommend whether wrinkle reduction, fillers, or a combination of both may be suitable based on clinical assessment.

Treatment Process

Step 1: Consultation and Planning
We conduct a detailed consultation to discuss your goals and review your medical history. Then, we evaluate your facial structure, skin condition, and muscle movement before confirming suitability for treatment.

Step 2: Preparation and Mapping
The treatment areas are identified and mapped for precision. A topical anaesthetic may be used to support your comfort. The amount and placement of the injectable product are determined according to your clinical needs.

Step 3: Wrinkle Reduction Treatment
Small amounts of the prescribed product are injected into specific facial muscles using a fine needle. The process is brief and generally allows for a return to regular daily routines in no time.

Step 4: Therapeutic Injectable Treatments
For fillers, the material is injected beneath the skin to support tissue structure and contour. Then, we give a massage to ensure even distribution.

Step 5: Review and Monitoring
We arrange follow-up assessments to review results, ensure appropriate outcomes, and make adjustments if clinically indicated.

Possible Risks and Considerations

All medical and dental procedures carry some risks. Your clinician will explain these before treatment. Possible considerations include:

  • Temporary redness, swelling, or tenderness at injection sites

  • Minor bruising or discomfort

  • Asymmetry or uneven results if one area responds differently

  • Rare allergic or sensitivity reactions

  • Infection or small lumps under the skin

  • Temporary localised weakness of treated muscles

Our clinician will discuss these in detail to ensure you understand the procedure and potential side effects before proceeding.

Maintenance and Aftercare

To support recovery and comfort after treatment:

  • Avoid touching or pressing the treated areas for at least 24 hours.

  • Keep the area clean and avoid applying makeup immediately after treatment.

  • Postpone strenuous activity and exposure to high heat for 24 hours.

  • Follow all individual aftercare instructions provided by your clinician.

  • Attend review appointments as recommended.

The duration of treatment effects varies from person to person, depending on product type, area treated, and individual factors such as metabolism and skin condition.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes and does not replace individual clinical advice. Results and duration vary between individuals. Please consult with the clinicians for guidance tailored to your situation and treatment needs.

Dentist in Hervey Bay | Family Dental Care
(07) 4317 4117
Book Now
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