Treatment Information & Considerations

Important Information Before Getting a Dental Implant 

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.

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.

Important Information Before Getting Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth to improve their appearance. They can address issues such as discolouration, worn or chipped enamel, misalignment, or gaps between teeth. At TFI Connect Dentistry, the veneer options include:

• Porcelain veneers – highly durable, stain-resistant, and provide a natural appearance.
• Composite veneers – resin-based, more affordable, and can often be completed in a single visit.
• Non-prep hybrid veneers – minimally invasive, with little or no enamel reduction required.

Veneers are not suitable for everyone. Patients with extensive tooth decay, gum disease, or insufficient enamel may require alternative treatments or preparatory care before veneers can be considered.

Your dentist will assess your oral health and discuss the most suitable option for your needs.

Treatment Process

Depending on the veneer type, treatment can involve one or more visits:

• Porcelain veneers usually require multiple appointments for preparation, impressions, and fitting.
• Composite veneers may often be placed in a single appointment.
• Non-prep veneers generally require minimal preparation and fewer visits.

General Risks and Considerations

All dental procedures carry risks. Before proceeding, you may wish to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Alternative treatment options may also be available.

With veneers, potential risks and considerations include:

• Tooth Sensitivity – temporary sensitivity to hot or cold after preparation or placement.
• Irreversible Enamel Removal – with porcelain or composite veneers, some natural tooth structure is permanently reduced.
• Colour Mismatch – veneers cannot be lightened once placed, so whitening of surrounding teeth may be recommended beforehand.
• Wear and Chipping – although durable, veneers may chip or fracture, particularly if you grind your teeth or bite hard objects.
• Longevity and Replacement – veneers typically last 7–15 years (porcelain) or 4–8 years (composite) but will eventually require replacement.

Specific Risks by Veneer Type

• Porcelain veneers: require more enamel reduction; highly aesthetic but difficult to repair if damaged.
• Composite veneers: less invasive, but more prone to staining and wear.
• Non-prep veneers: conservative option, though not suitable for all bite types or cases of severe discolouration/misalignment.

Post-Treatment Care and Recovery

• Recovery: Little to no downtime. Mild gum or tooth sensitivity may occur for a few days.
• Diet: Avoid biting directly into hard foods (ice, nuts, hard sweets) to reduce risk of chipping.

• Habits: Bruxism (teeth grinding) increases risk of veneer damage; a nightguard may be recommended.
• Follow-Up: Regular dental check-ups and professional cleaning are essential to maintain veneer health.
• Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily, as decay can still occur in the exposed parts of the natural tooth.

Your dentist will provide a personalised care plan and discuss all treatment considerations, including costs, maintenance, and alternative solutions.

Important Information Before Getting Invisalign

Invisalign treatment uses a series of custom-made, clear aligners to gradually move your teeth into a more ideal position. Invisalign is designed to improve dental alignment, correct crowding or spacing, and address certain bite issues, all while being virtually invisible compared to traditional braces.

Invisalign may not be suitable for everyone. Patients with severe bite problems, extensive dental restorations, or certain medical or dental conditions may require alternative orthodontic treatments. Your dentist will assess your suitability and recommend the most appropriate option for your needs.

Treatment Process

Invisalign treatment involves multiple stages:

• Consultation and Planning – Your dentist will take digital scans and photos to design a customised treatment plan.
• Aligner Fabrication – Clear aligners are produced specifically for your teeth and treatment goals.
• Wearing Aligners – Aligners are typically worn 20–22 hours per day, removed only for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene.
• Regular Check-Ups – Progress is monitored every 4–8 weeks, with new aligners provided as you move through treatment.

Treatment duration varies by case, usually ranging from 6–24 months. Compliance with wearing aligners is essential for effective results.

General Risks and Considerations

All dental and orthodontic procedures carry some risks. Before starting, you may wish to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified practitioner. Alternative treatments may also be available.

Potential risks and considerations include:

• Discomfort or Soreness – Mild pressure or soreness is normal when switching to a new aligner.
• Speech Changes – Some patients experience temporary changes in speech when first wearing aligners.
• Oral Hygiene – Aligners must be removed for eating and drinking; improper cleaning can increase risk of tooth decay or gum inflammation.
• Compliance Dependence – Effective treatment relies on wearing aligners for the recommended hours daily. Non-compliance can delay results.
• Attachment Issues – Small tooth-coloured attachments may be bonded to teeth to aid movement; these can temporarily affect appearance and may occasionally become loose.
• Relapse – Teeth may shift back if retainers are not worn after treatment completion.

Post-Treatment Care

• Retention – Wearing a retainer after treatment is essential to maintain results.
• Follow-Up – Regular dental visits and monitoring of bite and alignment are recommended.Oral Hygiene – Brush and floss daily; clean aligners regularly to prevent staining and plaque buildup.
• Diet – Avoid eating or drinking anything other than water while wearing aligners to reduce damage or staining.

Your dentist will provide a personalised care plan, including guidance on aligner wear, hygiene, and long-term retention to ensure optimal results and long-lasting dental health.