Treatment Information & Considerations

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

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 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.

At Ashwood Dental Surgery, our dental veneers and crowns are tailored for functional improvement and long-term oral health. Whether addressing wear, minor chips, weakened teeth, or misalignment, custom-fit porcelain or composite veneers and crowns are designed to enhance tooth function, strength, and structural integrity.

Functional Purpose of Veneers and Crowns

Veneers and crowns are individually crafted restorations that support tooth function by:

• Protecting teeth affected by erosion, wear, or minor damage.
  
  
• Stabilising weakened surfaces prone to further deterioration.
  
  
• Correcting slight misalignments that affect biting efficiency.
  
  
• Improving durability for routine biting and even pressure distribution.
  

You may discuss with our team which option, such as veneers, crowns, or a combination, is most suitable for your dental needs.

Treatment Journey at Our Clinic

Step 1: Assessment and Planning
Your treatment begins with a detailed evaluation. Our dentists assess oral health, tooth structure, and alignment. We discuss whether veneers or crowns are the most functional solution, alongside alternatives like onlays or orthodontic adjustments.

Step 2: Preparation and Impression
For veneers or crowns, a minimal amount of tooth material may be adjusted to accommodate the restoration. Precise digital scans or impressions are taken to ensure an accurate fit and optimal function.

Step 3: Manufacturing and Placement
Restorations are produced in a trusted dental laboratory. Once ready, veneers or crowns are bonded using suitable dental adhesives. Occlusion (bite alignment) is verified, and minor adjustments are made to ensure maximum functional comfort.

Possible Risks and Effects

Although veneers and crowns are routine procedures, potential considerations include:

• Permanent enamel or tooth adjustment may increase sensitivity.
  
  
• Temporary sensitivity to temperature or pressure.
  
  
• Veneers or crowns can chip, crack, or detach under excessive force or grinding.
  
  
• Gum irritation may occur if hygiene is insufficient.
  
  
• Post-placement adjustments may be necessary to ensure functional comfort.
  
  
• In case of rare material sensitivities, inform us of known allergies before treatment.
  

We encourage discussion during your consultation to make an informed decision.

Maintenance and Aftercare

To preserve the functional longevity of veneers and crowns:

• Maintain consistent oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing.
  
  
• Avoid hard or abrasive foods that could damage restorations.
  
  
• Attend regular check-ups to monitor fit, function, and bite alignment.
  
  
• Use a protective night guard if grinding or clenching is present.
  

With proper care, porcelain veneers and crowns may last 10–15 years, while composite options typically last 4–8 years.

Disclaimer: Individual outcomes vary depending on oral health and patient-specific factors. This information is provided to support informed healthcare decisions. Please consult with our dentist for recommendations tailored to your situation.

At Ashwood Dental Surgery, we provide orthodontic treatment including invisalign and clear aligners. They address functional concerns like gaps between teeth and various bite misalignments (overbite, underbite, deep bite, crossbite). Our orthodontic services are structured to support oral function and are overseen by a team experienced in a range of alignment methods.

Treatment Pathway Overview

Our personalised orthodontic treatment procedure includes:

• Initial Assessment and Planning: Our process begins with a detailed assessment of oral health and alignment needs. We evaluates alignment concerns such as tooth spacing and bite irregularities before recommending appropriate treatment types.
• Selection of Treatment Option: Based on your specific needs, we may recommend fixed braces or clear aligners (such as Invisalign). The choice depends on the nature of the alignment issue and your functional goals.

Functional Benefits

Some of the major benefits of orthodontic treatment are listed as follow:

• Improved Chewing Efficiency: Proper alignment supports better distribution of biting forces, reducing strain on specific teeth or the jaw.
• Simplified Oral Hygiene: Certain methods, especially clear aligners, can facilitate easier cleaning compared to fixed appliances.
• Gradual, Controlled Movement: Both braces and aligners use precise, predictable adjustments to shift teeth into desired functional positions.

Possible Risks and Effects

Orthodontic treatments are generally safe, but may involve variations tailored to each individual. Possible considerations include:

• Mild Discomfort or Pressure: You may experience temporary discomfort, especially when adjustments are made or new aligners are introduced.
• Soft Tissue Irritation: Fixed appliances may cause minor irritation to lips or gums during the initial stages or after adjustments.
• Hygiene Challenges: Brackets or aligners that are not cleaned thoroughly can trap plaque, potentially increasing the risk of decay or gum inflammation.
• Compliance-Dependent Outcomes: Yur 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 explain these considerations clearly during your initial consultation to support informed decision-making.

Maintenance and Aftercare

• Consistent Wear or Care: For aligners, follow our advised daily wear schedule strictly. For braces, maintain regular cleaning around all components.
• Oral Hygiene Routine: Brush and floss diligently using floss threaders if needed to prevent plaque buildup around appliances.
• Scheduled Check-Ups: Regular monitoring appointments allow our clinicians to make timely adjustments and assess functional progress.
• Post-Treatment Support: Once active adjustment is complete, retainers may be advised to maintain tooth position and prevent relapse.

Disclaimer: Treatment outcomes vary between individuals and depend on multiple factors, including oral health and patient adherence. This information is factual and intended to support informed decision-making. Please consult with our dentist for recommendations tailored to your specific situation.