Frequently Asked Questions about the Specialist Service

A referral to a prosthodontic practice is the choice your dentist makes when you have a difficult or complex problem that requires specialised treatment and care. Dr Nalbandian has received extensive training and education both locally and overseas in the field of prosthodontics and implant surgery with the skills for restoring oral harmony, function, comfort and aesthetics. Diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance of the oral function, comfort, appearance and health of patients with clinical conditions associated with missing or deficient teeth and/or oral and maxillofacial tissues using biocompatible substitutes.

In many ways we need to look at the whole mouth, teeth and gums, and coordinate form, function with dento-facial aesthetics. We restore oral function through prostheses and restorations (i.e., complete dentures, crowns, implant retained/supported restorations). Identifying the cause of the problem is usually where we start. Cosmetic dentistry, implants and temporomandibular joint disorder are categorised under the field of Prosthodontics.

It has taken Dr Nalbandian over a decade of postgraduate study to receive his qualifications of Masters Degree in Prosthodontics from the prestigious University of London (King’s College) and a Graduate Diploma in Oral Implantology at the University of Sydney. He is also a fellow of The Australasian College of Dental Surgeons.

He is a contributor and writer for postgraduate Masters Degree lectures, module programs at King’s College, University of London.

He has published articles on composite technology, implant surgery & piezosurgeryand researched patients’decision-makingprocess for selecting composite and porcelain veneer systems.

The discipline of prosthodontics includes all areas of cosmetic dentistry comprising dentures, implants, crowns and bridges and all aspects of tooth reconstruction, as we are specialised in restoring form function, comfort and aesthetics.

We would like to help you and the referring dentist tailor ongoing maintenance care; therefore,it is essential we identify the nature and cause of any problems i.e. past medical and dental histories, the nature of discomfort etc. to assist with a proper diagnosis. We will take X-rays, study models, and photos of your teeth. Naturally your confidentiality will be totally respected at all times. Depending on the nature of your concerns, we may decide to consider a second appointment following a discussion with your referring dentist, to make definitive treatment recommendations. There are no fees for this second visit which enables youan ampleopportunity to ask questions and raise any concerns.

Throughout your treatment, your dentist will be informed of progress. On completion, you can return to them for ongoing care with a tailored program which may include both general and prosthodontic reviews. Dr Nalbandian and your dentist may elect to treat your needs concurrently using a team approach, where procedures will be completed by both Dr Nalbandian and your dentist.

The cost of the first appointment is from $150 to $300. Further diagnostics (depending on the degree of diagnostic measures such as X-rays, CBCT, study models, other tests required, assuming additional treatment is not performed) will incur additional fees.

We ask that this be settled in full on the day. Dr Nalbandian can usually give a broad estimate of the cost of treatment at the first appointment but a detailed estimate is usually not possible until after the treatment planning discussion and diagnostic mock up.

• We get on with the job, and do not waste your time
• Our practice is focused on providing outstanding quality treatment to patients with complex problems
• Our expertise provides accurate diagnoses and technical delivery
• Our patients’ welfare is paramount
• Because we care, you will feel comfortable here

Creating lasting beautiful smiles and function for all ages.

In summary, prosthodontics requires the training and qualification to deal with complex dental health problems. Dr Nalbandian has attended an internationally recognised and formally structured university program to give him the extra skill and knowledge required to plan and manage complex dental problems. The qualification takes several years of training and practice. This has been over 11 years of post-graduate university training, multiple examinations etc. For instance, rather than simply providing cosmetic solutions, which after all, only focus on “how things look”, he is trained to correctly diagnose and treat any underlying problems beforehand. This concept is carried over into all aspects of reconstructing or improving smiles and appearances, including fixed or removable teeth, giving the patient a long-term result rather than a "quick fix" which might break down early or even damage the teeth. The implant surgery involves additional skills obtained for surgical planning and placement of dental implants as an overall diagnosis and treatment for our patients. To gain any formal post graduate qualification, one must have their relevant knowledge tested in any examination or pass any professional critical review process at world class universities.

The prosthodontic procedures can involve from restoring singletooth supported crowns, oran implant supported crown, aswell as complex tooth or an implant supported bridgework.

It is imperative that we carry out multilevel risk assessment that will help us in providing the best dental care for you: improving and maintaining your dental health: comfort, function andaesthetics as well as the longevity of the dental restorations.

The risk status of patients can change over the years, hence the reason for regular check-ups at our centre. Reconstructive dentistry is not “carpentry”. It is biology that drives the restorative process and maintenance.

Please refer to the section on diagnostics

As with any surgical procedure, you may expect some discomfort and swelling. The amount will vary between different people. Some people experience nothing whilst others may have some discomfort for up to a week or so. Medication is available to help you through this period.