Treatment Information & Considerations

Implants and All-on-Implants™ – Information and Risks

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 natural 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 or All-on-4™ Treatment

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 or All-on-4™ treatment 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.

Dental Veneers - Important Information and Risks

At Southside Friendly Dental Care, our dental veneers service is designed to support the functional health of your teeth. Whether addressing wear, minor chips, or uneven surfaces, our custom-fit porcelain or composite veneers are designed to enhance tooth function and structural integrity.

Functional Purpose of Veneers

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

Protect teeth affected by erosion, wear, or minor damage.
Stabilise weakened surfaces to prevent further deterioration.
Correct slight misalignments that may interfere with biting efficiency.
Support routine biting and distribution of pressure across teeth.

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

Treatment Journey at Our Clinic

Step 1: Assessment and Planning
Treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation. Our dentists assess oral health, tooth structure, and alignment, discussing 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 accurate fit and optimal function.

Step 3: Manufacturing and Placement
Veneers are produced in a trusted dental laboratory and are bonded using an appropriate dental adhesive. Occlusion (bite alignment) is carefully checked, and minor adjustments are made to support functional comfort.

Possible Risks and Considerations

Although veneer placement is generally routine, potential considerations include:

Permanent enamel adjustment may increase sensitivity.
Temporary sensitivity to temperature or pressure.
Veneers can chip or detach under excessive force or grinding.
Gum irritation may occur if hygiene is insufficient.
Adjustments may be required post-placement to ensure functional comfort.
Material sensitivities are rare; inform our team of any known allergies before treatment.

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

Maintenance and Aftercare

To support the functional longevity of your veneers:

Maintain daily brushing and flossing.
Avoid hard or abrasive foods that may damage veneers.
Attend regular check-ups to monitor fit and function.
If grinding or clenching is present, a protective night guard may be recommended.

With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10 to 15 years, while composite veneers typically last 4 to 8 years.

Disclaimer: Outcomes vary depending on individual oral health and patient-specific factors. This information is intended to support informed healthcare decisions. Please consult with our dentists at Southside Friendly Dental Care for advice tailored to your circumstances.

Orthodontic Treatment Information and Risks

At Southside Friendly Dental Care, we provide orthodontic treatment, including braces and clear aligners. Our services are focused on addressing functional concerns such as gaps between teeth and bite misalignments, including overbite, underbite, deep bite, and crossbite. All treatments are structured to support oral function and are overseen by our experienced dental team.

Treatment Pathway Overview

Initial Assessment and Planning
Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation of oral health and alignment needs. Our dentists examine tooth spacing, bite irregularities, and other functional concerns to determine the most suitable treatment approach.

Selection of Treatment Option
Based on your individual requirements, we may recommend fixed braces or clear aligners (such as Invisalign). The choice is determined by the nature of the alignment issue and your functional goals.

Functional Benefits

Orthodontic treatment at Southside Friendly Dental Care provides several functional benefits:

Improved Chewing Efficiency: Proper alignment supports even distribution of biting forces, reducing strain on specific teeth or the jaw.
Facilitated Oral Hygiene: Clear aligners, in particular, allow easier cleaning compared to fixed appliances.
Controlled, Gradual Movement: Braces and aligners use precise, predictable adjustments to reposition teeth into optimal functional alignment.

Possible Risks and Considerations

While orthodontic treatment is generally safe, potential considerations may include:

Mild Discomfort or Pressure: Temporary discomfort may occur when adjustments are made or new aligners are introduced.
Soft Tissue Irritation: Fixed appliances can cause minor irritation to lips or gums during initial stages or after adjustments.
Hygiene Challenges: Brackets or aligners not cleaned properly can trap plaque, potentially 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 adjustments may be required to address unexpected tooth movement or fit issues.

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

Maintenance and Aftercare

Consistent Wear or Care: Follow the advised daily wear schedule for aligners. For braces, maintain cleaning around all components.
Oral Hygiene Routine: Brush and floss thoroughly, using floss threaders if needed to prevent plaque buildup around appliances.
Scheduled Check-Ups: Regular monitoring appointments enable timely adjustments and assessment of functional progress.
Post-Treatment Support: Retainers may be advised after active adjustment to maintain tooth position and prevent relapse.

Disclaimer: Outcomes may vary between individuals and depend on factors such as oral health and patient adherence. This information is provided to support informed healthcare decisions. Please consult with our dentists at Southside Friendly Dental Care for guidance tailored to your situation.

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