Every dental treatment carries some risk, and we'd rather you know the trade-offs before you start than discover them after. Below is a plain-language summary for the treatments we offer. It's general information, not advice about your teeth. Your dentist will go through the risks relevant to your specific case at your consultation, and you can ask anything.
Invisalign
Not every presentation suits Invisalign, and some movements have limits your dentist will explain. New aligners commonly cause pressure or tenderness for the first day or two of each change. Attachments can feel rough against the lips at first, and a slight lisp is common early on and usually settles. Results depend on wear: aligners need to be in around 22 hours a day for treatment to track as planned, and treatment length is an estimate that can change; refinements are sometimes needed. Retainers are required after treatment, and without them teeth will move.
Composite bonding
Composite is a resin shaped onto the tooth. It can chip, stain or wear over time, and typically lasts 5 to 7 years before it needs repair or replacement. It's not suitable for every bite or every tooth, and a night-time retainer or guard is usually recommended to protect it. Some sensitivity after placement is possible.
Porcelain veneers
Preparing teeth for veneers removes a small amount of enamel, and that's not reversible. Veneers can chip or debond, and most will need replacing at some point in their life. Temporary sensitivity is common after preparation. Veneers aren't right for every tooth or bite, and a night guard is usually recommended.
Teeth whitening
Temporary sensitivity and gum irritation are common. Results vary with the starting shade of your teeth and don't last forever. Existing fillings, crowns and veneers do not whiten. Whitening isn't suitable for everyone, including during pregnancy.
Dental implants
Implants involve minor surgery, with the usual surgical risks of infection, swelling and discomfort. Healing takes several months, and in a small proportion of cases the implant does not integrate and needs to be redone. Smoking, gum disease and some medical conditions increase the risk. Implants need ongoing care like natural teeth.
Sedation and happy gas
Nitrous oxide (happy gas) can cause light-headedness or nausea, and oral sedation leaves you drowsy, so you'll need someone to bring you and take you home. Both require a health history check first, and neither is suitable for everyone.
If you have questions about any of this, ask us. That's what the consultation is for.
