Risks & Considerations of dental treatments

• Individual variation: Everyone’s mouth and body are different, so outcomes will vary. Your oral health, medical history, anatomy, and lifestyle habits all affect outcomes.
• Results are not guaranteed: No dental treatment can be guaranteed, even when planned carefully.
• Timeframes differ: The length of treatment and recovery time can differ from patient to patient.
• Maintenance is essential: Most treatments require consistent maintenance, which may include check-ups, good oral hygiene, repairs or replacements over time.
• Possible side effects: Common, temporary side effects may include discomfort, swelling, bruising, or tooth sensitivity.

Surgical procedures involve additional risks and considerations. These may include:

• Infection or slower-than-expected healing
• Swelling, bruising, or discomfort in the days after surgery
• Changes in gum or bone around the implant site
• Nerve irritation or altered sensation in the lips, chin, or tongue
• Implant movement or, in rare cases, implant failure
• Sinus issues when implants are placed in the upper jaw
• The need for further procedures such as bone or gum grafting
• Temporary teeth may be provided on the day of surgery, while the final bridge or prosthesis is usually fitted after several months of healing

Porcelain veneers are custom-made shells bonded to the front of teeth.

General information

Veneers usually require some reshaping of the tooth surface so that the porcelain can fit securely. Treatment is typically completed over two or more visits. While porcelain veneers are durable, they are not indestructible and may need to be replaced in the future.

Risks and considerations may include:

• Irreversible removal of some natural tooth structure
• Possible tooth sensitivity, especially to hot and cold
• Veneer fracture, chipping or debonding
• Colour mismatch or shade changes compared to natural teeth over time
• Gum irritation or inflammation around the veneer margins
• The need for replacement after years of wear (usually 10–15 years with good care)
• Allergic reaction to dental materials (extremely rare).
• Unexpected changes in bite that may require adjustment

Composite veneers are directly bonded resin restorations that can enhance the appearance of teeth. They are less invasive than porcelain veneers, often requiring little to no removal of tooth enamel.

General information

Composite veneers can usually be completed in a single visit and are a more affordable option compared to porcelain. They typically last several years with proper maintenance and care, but may stain or chip more easily.

Risks and considerations may include:

• More prone to staining and discolouration than porcelain
• Shorter lifespan (often 4–8 years with good care)
• Possible chipping, cracking or wear of the resin
• Gum irritation at the margins
• May require periodic polishing or replacement to maintain appearance
• Tooth preparation may still be needed in some cases, which is not reversible
• Allergic reaction to composite resin materials (rare).
• Temporary tooth sensitivity.

Invisalign® uses a series of clear aligners to gradually move teeth.

General information

Treatment length varies depending on complexity, ranging from several months to a few years. Compliance to wear your aligners is necessary. Aligners need to be worn 20–22 hours per day. The use of chewing exercises may be needed for 15 minutes per day for faster and better results.

Risks and considerations may include:

• Some discomfort during the first month of receiving your aligners and starting treatment.
• Temporary discomfort or pressure when changing aligners
• Gum or cheek irritation from aligner edges
• Speech changes or increased saliva in the adjustment phase
• Risks of root resorption (shortening of roots) or bone changes in rare cases
• Teeth moving back (relapse) if retainers are not worn as directed after treatment
• Treatment time varying depending on complexity and patient compliance (must wear aligners 20–22 hours per day)

Whitening treatments use bleaching agents to lighten the colour of teeth.

General information

Whitening does not change the colour of existing fillings, crowns, or veneers. Results vary and are not permanent; retouch may be required.

Risks and considerations may include:

• Temporary tooth sensitivity
• Gum irritation or burning if whitening gel contacts soft tissue
• Uneven results if teeth have existing restorations, cracks or intrinsic stains
• Crowns, veneers and fillings will not whiten and may need replacement for a colour match
• Overuse of whitening products leading to enamel weakening if not professionally supervised
• Results that may fade over time, especially with coffee, tea, red wine or smoking