Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Holistic dentistry focuses on the bigger picture instead of just treating symptoms. Lifetime Dental focuses on prevention and uses biocompatible materials that work with your body instead of against it. Routine check-ups, thorough cleanings and personalised advice for at-home care are the cornerstones of our holistic approach. We aim to help you avoid issues before they start. 

Our Holistic General Dentistry Services

We offer a wide range of treatments designed to support your health from every angle:

• Comprehensive exams and cleans
• Mercury-free fillings and restorations
• Pain-free and sleep dentistry
• Non-invasive laser dentistry
• Non-extraction orthodontics
• Support for expecting mums
• Sleep apnoea and snoring treatment
• Tooth replacements, including implants
• CEREC same-day restorations
• Smile design and cosmetic dentistry
• Pain-free root canal treatment
• TMJ and bruxism treatment
• Emergency dentistry
• Patient education and nutritional guidance

We Welcome Your Call

We know that going to the dentist doesn’t always top the 'fun' list, but we're here to make your visit as relaxing and comfortable as possible. After all, taking care of your teeth should feel like self-care, not stress!

Ready to experience a fresh approach to dentistry? We’d love to welcome you to Lifetime Dental! We invite you to give us a call, book online or simply drop by.

Our cosmetic dentistry services are designed to enhance your smile naturally and holistically so you can look and feel your best. Every treatment we offer is carefully selected to be biocompatible, gentle on your body and tailored to your unique needs.

Our Health-First Approach 

Our dentists focus on treatments that support oral and overall health while improving aesthetics. We design each smile with particular attention to your teeth, facial structure, skin tone and the natural harmony of your smile with the rest of your face. We believe a beautiful smile starts with a healthy foundation, so we ensure your oral health is in top shape before beginning any cosmetic work. This way, you get results that look stunning and feel comfortable.

Holistic Cosmetic Dentistry in Melbourne

A beautiful, healthy smile doesn’t have to come at the expense of your well-being. With Lifetime Dental’s holistic cosmetic dentistry, you can enjoy a smile transformation that’s as gentle as it is effective. From using biocompatible materials to focusing on minimally invasive treatments, we aim to create a smile you love that aligns with your health and values.

Ready to get started? We invite you to give us a call or book online.

On average, a well-made crown or bridge can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, sometimes even longer, with good care. Crowns and bridges are designed to be durable and long-lasting, but their lifespan can vary based on a few factors, including:

• Materials
• Oral hygiene
• Lifestyle habits

At Lifetime Dental, we craft our crowns and bridges using high-quality materials like ceramic, which is both strong and natural-looking. To keep your crown or bridge in great shape, we recommend regular check-ups, a consistent oral hygiene routine and avoiding habits like chewing on ice or hard objects.

Durable Crowns and Bridges in Melbourne, VIC

With the right care, your crown or bridge can give you many years of comfortable, beautiful smiles. If you have questions about maintaining your dental restorations, or if you're ready to explore crowns and bridges, we welcome your call. 

Many patients consider dental implants their smile’s ‘forever’ solution. Dental implants can last a lifetime, especially when you take good care of them. Here’s how it works: the actual implant—a tiny titanium post—is placed in your jawbone, where it fuses with the bone to create a rock-solid foundation. This is the part that can truly last forever.

The crown that tops the implant might need a little TLC down the line, but they usually last about 10-15 years before they might need replacing, simply due to the normal wear and tear that comes with daily life. However, with regular check-ups, good brushing habits and regular flossing, you can keep your implant and crown in great shape for the long haul.

Another tip for making your dental implants last is to avoid smoking and biting down on hard foods. 

Smile for Life: Dental Implants Built to Last

Tooth loss doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the joys of a complete smile. Dental implants can give you back your grin and ensure it stays in place for many years to come. If you’d like to learn more or book your consultation with our team, we invite you to call us or book online. 

A complete smile makeover is a highly personalised treatment plan that addresses not only cosmetic concerns, but also considers bite and tooth function. When our dentists create a treatment plan for a smile makeover, they take into consideration the patient's needs, goals, lifestyle and desire for their dental health.

Depending on their unique individual needs, most patients can finish their smile makeover in Prahran within a few weeks to 24 months. For example, a patient using porcelain crowns and veneers to restore their smile's function and aesthetics may be finished with their treatment in two to three weeks, while someone who needs veneers and orthodontic treatment will require 18 months to finish their smile. The timeline is based on the type of treatment we're performing and the complexity of your case. 

Patients with longer timelines may be able to complete their treatment in phases that better fit into their schedules and budgets. 

Booking a Consultation

Arranging an initial consultation with one of our dentists is the best way for you to determine what your treatment timeline and costs will be. You'll leave your visit with a clear understanding of your treatment needs, procedure options, timeline and fees. 

You can call our team on (03) 9510 1644 to arrange a convenient time for your booking. 

Digital Smile Design in Prahran lets you take charge of your smile makeover or cosmetic treatment by previewing your smile in advance.

Key advantages include:

• Control: You decide what you want to enhance about your smile, and Digital Smile Design technology shows you how your smile will change. This puts the power in your hands.
• Choice: If one simulated design doesn’t meet your goals, you can choose another combination of treatments with Digital Smile Design.
• Confidence: Deciding to undergo cosmetic treatment isn’t easy, especially when you can’t see the outcome in advance. With this technology, you can feel confident in your decisions.

How Digital Smile Design Works

Your dentist takes videos and images of your smile and shares them with Digital Smile Design technology. You can then preview the images of your smile and see how it changes through various cosmetic treatment simulations.

This advanced technology helps you choose the best treatment for your smile, including veneers, gum contouring, dental implants and teeth whitening.

Your Cosmetic Dentist in Prahran Awaits Your Call

We welcome your call today to learn more about this exciting technology or to schedule a consultation with our dentist.

We work with AfterPay and MediPay to help patients finance their cosmetic care.

Digital Smile Design is an innovative and accurate dental technology that enables patients to preview their smile before undergoing cosmetic dentistry or a smile makeover. The technology enables the dentist to share images and videos of your smile. The simulator lets you know how your smile will look following various treatments, such as:

• Dental Veneers
• Gum Contouring
• Dental Implants
• Teeth Whitening
• Composite Bonding
• Restorative Dentistry
• Smile Makeover

Rather than predicting or attempting to describe how we can transform your smile, Digital Smile Design shows you.

Why Patients Choose Digital Smile Design in Prahran

Patients choose Digital Smile Design because it helps them select the best cosmetic dentistry options to achieve their goals. It also allows you to see the final results before committing to treatment and lets you choose only the necessary options.

If you’re considering cosmetic dentistry or a smile makeover, your dentist will discuss Digital Smile Design with you.

Are You Ready to Contact Your Cosmetic Dentist in Prahran?

If you have questions about our dental treatments, services, and holistic approach to patient care, we welcome your call. You can also contact us to book your Smile Design consultation with the dentist.

Our team is happy to accept AfterPay and MediPay financing!

If you have a dental emergency, please call (03) 9510 1644 during clinic hours or (04) 3380 8266 outside of regular clinic hours. We also encourage you to contact us if you’re unsure your situation requires emergency dental care—we can guide you through what to do. 

Dental emergencies can feel overwhelming, but our team at Lifetime Dental is here to make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. We’ll do everything we can to get you in the dental chair quickly so we can relieve your pain and treat your concerns. We understand that a toothache, cracked tooth or lost filling rarely happens at a convenient time, so we have an after-hours phone line you can call. 

Holistic Emergency Dentistry in Melbourne 

We take a gentle, whole-person approach, which means we’re not just here to patch things up; we’re here to dig into the root cause and see how it connects to your overall health. We ensure your treatment is as comfy and stress-free as possible using safe, biocompatible materials and thoughtful techniques.

Whether you’re looking for quick pain relief or a long-term fix, our Prahran emergency dentists have your back. Your comfort is our top priority, and we’re here to guide you with compassion and a little extra TLC. If you’re dealing with a dental emergency, please don’t hesitate to ring us.

Holistic dentistry focuses on the bigger picture instead of just treating symptoms. Lifetime Dental focuses on prevention and uses biocompatible materials that work with your body instead of against it. Routine check-ups, thorough cleanings and personalised advice for at-home care are the cornerstones of our holistic approach. We aim to help you avoid issues before they start. 

Our Holistic General Dentistry Services

We offer a wide range of treatments designed to support your health from every angle:

• Comprehensive exams and cleans
• Mercury-free fillings and restorations
• Pain-free and sleep dentistry
• Non-invasive laser dentistry
• Non-extraction orthodontics
• Support for expecting mums
• Sleep apnoea and snoring treatment
• Tooth replacements, including implants
• CEREC same-day restorations
• Smile design and cosmetic dentistry
• Pain-free root canal treatment
• TMJ and bruxism treatment
• Emergency dentistry
• Patient education and nutritional guidance

We Welcome Your Call

We know that going to the dentist doesn’t always top the 'fun' list, but we're here to make your visit as relaxing and comfortable as possible. After all, taking care of your teeth should feel like self-care, not stress!

Ready to experience a fresh approach to dentistry? We’d love to welcome you to Lifetime Dental! We invite you to give us a call, book online or simply drop by.

It means that Lifetime Dental does not use mercury in their dental clinic, including in their restorations. This gives many patients peace of mind.

Lifetime Dental is a holistic, biologically focused dental clinic, meaning we take a holistic and natural approach to your dental care.

Additionally, mercury-free dental restorations and fillings offer a more aesthetically pleasing finish. For example, our fillings blend with your tooth colour. They are made of a safe composite and are ideal for treating cavities.

Other Examples of Biocompatible Dentistry

Besides mercury-free dentistry in Prahran, we offer:

• CEREC Same-Day Dental Crowns
• Extraction-Free Orthodontics
• Digital Imaging
• Laser Dentistry

We can safely remove older amalgam restorations and replace them with our tooth-coloured option.

Our materials and technology contribute to our holistic approach to your dental care.

Preventing Cavities with Your Dentist

Regular dental exams and teeth cleans are the best ways to lower your tooth decay risks. However, these visits should always be part of a larger prevention plan. In other words, be sure to brush and floss at least twice daily between these dental appointments.

Your Dentist in Prahran Welcomes Your Call

To learn more about our approach to dental care or to book a consultation with the dentist, a team member is standing by to get you started.

The SMART technique (or Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) is a method for safely removing silver dental fillings that contain mercury. While studies show that mercury dental fillings do not cause harm, some patients can be sensitive to this element or prefer not to have mercury in their mouth.

At Lifetime Dental, we understand why patients prefer mercury-free restorations, such as tooth-coloured composite restorations.

The SMART technique allows us to safely and efficiently remove your silver fillings and replace them, which is also an aesthetic gain. With tooth-coloured fillings, there are no metal-coloured restorations to detract from your smile.

As a holistic dentist in Prahran, we take a holistic approach to dental care and the materials we use, which is why we champion composite fillings.

How the SMART Technique Works

The SMART technique uses a rubber dam and potent suction to remove older fillings. This method results in less vapour and heat, which can reduce unwanted exposure and is considered safe and effective.

We then replace the filling with our tooth-coloured option that does not contain mercury.

Would You Like to Learn More about the SMART Technique?

For more information about our holistic approach to dental care or to schedule a consultation for mercury removal, please call us on (03) 9510 1644.

Typically, amalgam fillings contain mercury and are considered traditional mercury-based fillings. During previous decades, these restorations were popular and the standard of care. However, modern patients prefer a mercury-free filling material or restoration, such as composite.

Our composite resin fillings are mercury-free, biocompatible, and offer benefits including:

• Better aesthetics because they match your teeth
• Less tooth removal because it is applied in layers
• A restoration free from mercury
• A filling that does not shrink or expand on the tooth

Whenever possible, we choose biocompatible materials to restore your smile, and we always use mercury-free fillings in Prahran.

Keeping Your Smile Healthy Between Checks and Cleans

The only thing better than a beautiful, discreet filling is no cavities at all!

We recommend booking regular checks and cleans with our dental team. Also, remember to brush and floss your teeth at least twice daily—after every meal is even better. When you brush and floss, take the time to clean every tooth.

If you notice tooth sensitivity or other changes to your oral health between checks and cleans, we encourage you to call our dental clinic as soon as possible.

Your Holistic Dentist in Prahran Awaits Your Call

To learn more or to book an appointment in our amalgam-free dental clinic, we welcome your call today.

Many patients choose to replace their old mercury or metal fillings with tooth-coloured composite ones for a few reasons:

Composite Fillings Withstand Temperature Changes

Metal (or amalgam) fillings are made with a mix of metals, including mercury, which can expand and contract with temperature changes, like when you drink hot coffee or eat ice cream. Over time, this constant shifting can lead to tiny cracks in your teeth, weakening the tooth structure and increasing the risk of breaks or further decay. On the other hand, composite fillings do not change with temperature.

Composite Fillings Are Colour-Matched to Your Teeth

Another reason patients prefer to replace metal fillings is aesthetics. Metal fillings are noticeable and can darken over time, whereas mercury-free composite fillings blend seamlessly with your natural tooth colour for a much more discreet, attractive look.

Composite Fillings Do Not Contain Metal or Mercury

Finally, many people feel more comfortable with mercury-free fillings due to health concerns around mercury exposure. While research is ongoing, mercury-free composite fillings are a popular choice for those seeking a safe, metal-free alternative that looks great and also helps protect their natural tooth structure and strength.

Aesthetic, Mercury-Free Fillings in Melbourne

If you’re interested in replacing your old metal fillings, we invite you to give us a call and ask about our safe, biocompatible options.

Yes, non-extraction orthodontics can be effective for both children and adults. For children, early intervention is particularly beneficial. When orthodontic treatment begins while a child’s jaw is still growing, it’s easier to guide the natural development of the jaw and dental arch. This can help prevent overcrowding and the need for extractions down the line, as treatment focuses on creating enough space for teeth to grow in alignment naturally. Techniques such as palatal expanders or growth modification appliances are often used for children to widen the dental arch so all teeth have adequate room.

For adults, non-extraction options are available, too, even if growth has stopped. Modern orthodontic treatments, like clear aligners or braces, can gently move teeth into proper alignment by expanding the dental arch rather than removing teeth. This approach helps maintain a balanced, full smile while enhancing facial aesthetics. Adults can also benefit from preserving their natural teeth, as keeping all teeth reduces the risk of later shifting and bite issues. 

Let Us Help Align Your Bite 

Non-extraction orthodontics offers versatile solutions for people of all ages, allowing children and adults to achieve beautifully aligned, natural-looking smiles without needing extractions. If you’d like to learn more, we welcome your call at (03) 9510 1644 or book a consultation online. 

The effects of IV sedation can last for several hours after treatment, which means you must have transportation after your appointment. We also encourage you not to operate machinery or make any important life decisions on the day of treatment.

Before your dentist approves you for IV sedation, we take a thorough health history, including a list of recent diagnoses and medications, to ensure you are suitable for sedation dentistry in Prahran.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry in Prahran?

Your dentist may recommend IV sedation for the following reasons:

• You have dental anxiety or a phobia.
• You undergo multiple treatments during a single appointment.
•  You have an exaggerated gag reflex.
•  You are undergoing an invasive procedure.

Sedation dentistry, specifically IV sedation, helps streamline your appointment, and you may feel that it went by quickly.

What Causes Dental Phobia?

Dental phobia or anxiety may stem from an event in childhood, be an extension of general anxiety or we may never learn the actual cause.

Fortunately, our dental team understands the anxiety associated with dental care and always offers gentle and compassionate treatment.

Are You Ready to Book a Consultation?

If you have a treatment on the horizon and would like to learn more about IV sedation dentistry in Prahran, we invite you to call us on (03) 9510 1644 to arrange a consultation.

Sleep dentistry doesn’t necessarily mean being fully ‘asleep.’ It actually covers a range of sedation levels, and we customise the type and depth to meet your needs.

For instance, mild sedation, like oral sedation, involves taking a pill before your procedure. You’ll remain fully awake yet feel very relaxed. Many patients describe it as feeling ‘floaty’ or calm, similar to deep meditation. It’s great if you’re a bit nervous but prefer to stay aware of what’s happening. You’ll be conscious and able to communicate with your dentist while feeling less tense and more at ease.

For deeper relaxation, IV sedation offers a ‘twilight sleep.’ You won’t be fully unconscious, but you’ll feel deeply relaxed and comfortable. You can respond to simple instructions if needed, but you won’t feel pain, and most patients remember little to nothing about the procedure. This option is ideal for longer or more complex treatments, as it helps you breeze through with no stress or discomfort.

Safe Sleep Dentistry in Melbourne, VIC

After any sedation, you may feel groggy, so it’s best to have someone drive you home and plan for a restful day. We’ll review all your sedation options beforehand and answer any questions so you feel informed and comfortable. To explore a calm, stress-free dental experience, we invite you to call (03) 9510 1644 to arrange a consultation.

Yes, IV sedation is extremely safe when administered by a qualified professional in a properly equipped dental practice. At Lifetime Dental in Prahran, an experienced anaesthetist oversees your dental sedation, monitoring your vital signs throughout the entire procedure.

Your Safety During IV Sedation

Your safety is our top priority during IV sedation. Before treatment, the anaesthetist reviews your complete medical history, current medications and any allergies to ensure sedation is appropriate for you.

During your procedure, the anaesthetist continuously monitors your vital signs, including blood oxygen levels, heart rate and breathing. One way IV sedation enhances your safety is that the anaesthetist can adjust the level in real-time. If you need slightly more or less medication, they can respond immediately.

Who Should Avoid IV Sedation?

While IV sedation is safe for most patients, we may take extra precautions or recommend alternative approaches for specific medical conditions. Please discuss IV sedation carefully with your dentist and anaesthetist if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have severe respiratory conditions like sleep apnoea or COPD
• Have certain heart conditions
• Take medications that interact with sedatives

IV Sedation Recovery and Aftercare

After your sedation procedure, you'll rest in the office until the anaesthetist confirms you're ready to leave. You'll need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for several hours. Most patients feel back to normal within 24 hours.

Do you still have questions about IV sedation in Prahran? Our team would be happy to answer them for you, and we're available at (03) 9510 1644.

IV sedation can be used for virtually any dental procedure, from routine cleanings to complex surgical treatments. It's beneficial for lengthy appointments, multiple procedures completed in one visit or any treatment that causes significant anxiety.

Standard Procedures Performed Under IV Sedation

Many patients at Lifetime Dental in Prahran choose IV sedation for the following treatments:

• Dental implant placement
• Wisdom tooth extractions
• Root canal therapy
• Extensive restorative work
• Gum disease treatment
• Full mouth rehabilitation

Who Is IV Sedation For?

Beyond the type of procedure, any of the following individuals may find IV sedation especially effective for their situation: 

• Patients with severe dental anxiety who have avoided care for years
• Anyone with a strong gag reflex that interferes with treatment
• People who want to complete extensive dental work in the fewest appointments
• Those who have difficulty getting numb with traditional local anaesthetics

Can IV Sedation Be Used for Simple Procedures?

IV sedation is typically associated with longer or more complex treatments; however, patients with significant anxiety can request it for routine procedures like fillings or cleanings. There's no judgment at Lifetime Dental in Prahran—if IV sedation helps you get the dental care you need, it's the right choice regardless of how simple the procedure might seem.

Please call us if you have questions or need to schedule an appointment.

Sleep apnoea can be surprisingly hard to spot on your own—after all, it happens while you're fast asleep! But some telltale signs can give you a clue:

• Loud snoring
• Gasping or choking sounds
• Chronic headaches, especially in the morning
• Dry mouth
• Excessive tiredness 
• Mood swings and irritability 
• Difficulty with concentration and focus 
• Frequently waking up at night 
• Nodding off during the day

People with sleep apnoea often have no idea they're experiencing these symptoms. Usually, a partner or family member notices the loud snoring or gasping sounds that signal disrupted sleep. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it might be time to check in with a dental professional trained in sleep apnoea, like Dr Chris Darby. 

Think You Might Have Sleep Apnoea? We're Here to Help!

At Lifetime Dental, we're here to help identify whether sleep apnoea—or something else—could be affecting your sleep and energy levels. Dr Darby and our team will perform a thorough evaluation and discuss personalised treatment options to improve your sleep quality and help you wake up feeling refreshed. 

Please don't let poor sleep hold you back from feeling your best. We invite you to call us at (03) 9510 1644 or book an appointment online to get started.

Yes, most cases of TMJ disorders and bruxism can be effectively treated without surgery. At Lifetime Dental, we offer a range of non-invasive treatments designed to relieve pain, reduce jaw tension and help you get back to living comfortably without complex procedures. Here are some non-invasive options:

• Custom-made oral appliances — We specially craft oral appliances to fit comfortably over your teeth and reduce grinding, pressure and wear on the jaw joints and teeth. 
• Gentle exercises and stretches — Exercises like jaw resistance movements or gentle jaw opening and closing can help maintain balance in the joint, ease discomfort and prevent muscle strain caused by clenching or grinding.
• Relaxation techniques — Deep breathing, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation can lower stress levels.
• Lifestyle adjustments — Simple lifestyle adjustments can make a significant difference. Avoiding chewy or hard foods, maintaining proper posture and managing stimulants like caffeine or alcohol can all reduce strain on the jaw and improve your comfort.

Non-Invasive Treatment for TMD and Bruxism

With our holistic and patient-centred approach, surgery is rarely necessary. Please contact our dental clinic if you're experiencing jaw pain or discomfort from TMJ or bruxism. Our team is here to help you explore gentle, effective options to relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

The SMART technique (or Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) is a method for safely removing silver dental fillings that contain mercury. While studies show that mercury dental fillings do not cause harm, some patients can be sensitive to this element or prefer not to have mercury in their mouth.

At Lifetime Dental, we understand why patients prefer mercury-free restorations, such as tooth-coloured composite restorations.

The SMART technique allows us to safely and efficiently remove your silver fillings and replace them, which is also an aesthetic gain. With tooth-coloured fillings, there are no metal-coloured restorations to detract from your smile.

As a holistic dentist in Prahran, we take a holistic approach to dental care and the materials we use, which is why we champion composite fillings.

How the SMART Technique Works

The SMART technique uses a rubber dam and potent suction to remove older fillings. This method results in less vapour and heat, which can reduce unwanted exposure and is considered safe and effective.

We then replace the filling with our tooth-coloured option that does not contain mercury.

Would You Like to Learn More about the SMART Technique?

For more information about our holistic approach to dental care or to schedule a consultation for mercury removal, please call us on (03) 9510 1644.

Many patients choose to replace their old mercury or metal fillings with tooth-coloured composite ones for a few reasons:

Composite Fillings Withstand Temperature Changes

Metal (or amalgam) fillings are made with a mix of metals, including mercury, which can expand and contract with temperature changes, like when you drink hot coffee or eat ice cream. Over time, this constant shifting can lead to tiny cracks in your teeth, weakening the tooth structure and increasing the risk of breaks or further decay. On the other hand, composite fillings do not change with temperature.

Composite Fillings Are Colour-Matched to Your Teeth

Another reason patients prefer to replace metal fillings is aesthetics. Metal fillings are noticeable and can darken over time, whereas mercury-free composite fillings blend seamlessly with your natural tooth colour for a much more discreet, attractive look.

Composite Fillings Do Not Contain Metal or Mercury

Finally, many people feel more comfortable with mercury-free fillings due to health concerns around mercury exposure. While research is ongoing, mercury-free composite fillings are a popular choice for those seeking a safe, metal-free alternative that looks great and also helps protect their natural tooth structure and strength.

Aesthetic, Mercury-Free Fillings in Melbourne

If you’re interested in replacing your old metal fillings, we invite you to give us a call and ask about our safe, biocompatible options.