Treatment Information & Considerations

At Affinity Dentistry, we offer dental implants as one of the treatment options for replacing missing teeth. 

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant integrates with the bone, a crown, bridge, or denture is attached to restore function and aesthetics.

Dental implants can be used to replace:

• A single missing tooth
• Multiple missing teeth
• An entire arch of teeth (with implant-supported dentures or bridges)

   

Important Information

During your consultation, our experienced dentist will:

• Assess your suitability for dental implants.
• Discuss alternative treatment options (e.g., bridges or dentures).
• Explain the potential risks involved.
• Outline the maintenance required for long-term success.

   

In some cases, additional procedures may be needed before implants can be placed, such as:

• Bone grafting – adding bone to support the implant.
• Sinus lift – creating more space in the upper jaw.
  These procedures carry their own risks, which will be explained in detail if recommended.

   

Like any dental or surgical procedure, implants carry potential risks. You may also wish to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional before proceeding.

Treatment Process & Recovery

• Number of visits: Implant treatment usually takes several appointments over a few months, depending on healing and case complexity.
• Daily activities: Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 48 hours.
• Healing: Implants generally require 3–6 months to fully integrate with the bone.
• Maintenance: Long-term care is essential. Implants require regular dental check-ups, excellent oral hygiene, and may involve additional costs beyond the initial treatment.
  

Possible Risks & Considerations

Surgical Risks

• Upper jaw: Implants may be close to the sinus, with a rare risk of sinus complications.
• Lower jaw: Implants may be close to nerves, which can sometimes cause temporary or permanent altered sensation in the lip, chin, or tongue.
  
• Other risks: Bone fracture, infection, or lack of initial stability.
  

Post-Surgical Risks

• Implant failure: In rare cases, the implant may not fuse with the bone and will need to be removed or replaced.
• Gum irritation or inflammation: Can occur if oral hygiene is poor or if the implant does not heal properly.
• Prolonged sensitivity or pain: Most discomfort is temporary but, in rare cases, may persist.
  

Recovery Effects

• Swelling and bruising are common for a few days after surgery.
• Bleeding may occur for 24–48 hours post-surgery.
• Pain/discomfort is expected and usually managed with prescribed medication.
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking and uncontrolled medical conditions (e.g., diabetes) may affect healing and long-term success.

   

Long-Term Considerations

• Implants are designed to be long-lasting but are not completely free of risk.
• They may require maintenance, adjustments, or replacement in the future.
• Regular 4–6 monthly check-ups are important to monitor implant health.
  

Summary
Dental implants are a strong and natural-looking option for replacing missing teeth, but they do involve surgery and carry risks. Success depends on proper planning, surgical technique, healing ability, and your ongoing care.

At Affinity Dentistry, we offer Invisalign clear aligner treatment to help improve the alignment of your teeth and enhance your smile. Clear aligners are a modern, discreet alternative to traditional orthodontics, designed to gradually shift your teeth into their ideal position.

What Are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are a series of custom-made, transparent trays that fit snugly over your teeth. Each set of aligners gently moves your teeth over time until the desired alignment is achieved.

When Are Clear Aligners Recommended?

Clear aligners are generally suitable for:

• Mild to moderate crowding or spacing issues.
• Patients who want a discreet, removable orthodontic option.
• Cases where bite correction is possible without fixed appliances.

Treatment duration typically ranges from 6 to 24 months, depending on your individual case.

Important Information

Your consultation will include:

• An assessment of whether you’re eligible for clear aligner treatment.
• A discussion of the potential risks involved.
• Guidance on post-treatment maintenance to keep your results long-lasting.

In some complex cases, additional aligners may be required to achieve the desired outcome.
For more complicated treatment plans, restorative procedures such as bonding, crowns, or reshaping may be recommended alongside clear aligners.

Compliance is key — aligners must be worn 20–22 hours per day. Failure to wear them as directed may delay treatment or compromise results.

Like any dental procedure, clear aligner treatment carries risks. Before proceeding, you may wish to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Common Risks of Clear Aligner Treatment

General Risks

• Discomfort or pain: Some soreness is common when starting a new set of aligners.
• Relapse: Teeth may shift back if retainers are not worn after treatment.
• Treatment duration changes: Timelines may vary depending on how your teeth respond and your compliance.
• Oral hygiene challenges: Aligners can trap food or plaque if not cleaned properly, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, or staining.
• Root shortening (resorption): Rarely, tooth roots may shorten slightly, which typically has little clinical impact but in rare cases can affect tooth stability.
• Allergic reactions: Rare reactions to the plastics used in aligners may occur.

Specific Risks of Clear Aligners

• Speech changes: A temporary lisp may occur when first wearing aligners.
• Compliance-dependent: Aligners must be worn consistently for effective results.
• Fit issues: Some aligners may feel too tight or may not track properly, requiring refinements.

Maintenance & Aftercare

• Retainers are essential after clear aligner treatment to maintain your new smile.
• You’ll be provided with a personalised maintenance plan, which may involve additional costs beyond your initial treatment.
• Success depends heavily on patient cooperation — wearing aligners as directed, attending scheduled appointments, and maintaining excellent oral hygiene.

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They are one of the treatment options available to improve the appearance of your smile by covering stains, closing gaps, repairing chips, or helping teeth appear straighter and more even.

Consultation & Treatment Planning

At Affinity Dentistry, your veneer journey begins with a detailed consultation. Our experienced dentist will examine your teeth and discuss the most suitable treatment options for your needs. This includes:

• Assessing your eligibility for porcelain veneers or other cosmetic and restorative treatments (such as orthodontics or crowns).
  
• Explaining the potential risks associated with each option.
  
• Outlining the maintenance required to ensure long-lasting results.

Before recommending veneers, we will check for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other oral health issues. If veneers are suitable and you choose to proceed, a thin layer of enamel is gently removed from the teeth, and an impression or digital scan is taken to create your customised veneers.

In some cases, sedatives may be offered to make the procedure more comfortable.

Additional Procedures

Sometimes, treatments such as gum recontouring or reshaping may be suggested alongside veneers. These procedures carry their own considerations and risks, which will be explained to you in detail.

General Considerations

Like any dental procedure, porcelain veneers carry risks. We encourage patients to seek a second opinion from a qualified health practitioner before proceeding. Alternative treatment options may be available depending on your case.

Treatment Process & Recovery

• Number of visits: Veneer treatment usually requires 2 to 6 appointments, depending on case complexity.
  
• Daily activities: Most patients continue their normal routines throughout treatment, though some may need short recovery time.
  
• Healing: Gums and teeth typically settle within two weeks after veneer placement.
  
• Maintenance: Long-term care is vital. Veneers generally last 10 to 15 years before replacement may be needed, depending on oral hygiene, diet, and habits such as clenching or grinding. A personalised maintenance plan and regular check-ups will help extend their lifespan.

Possible Risks & Effects

Tooth Preparation

• A thin layer of enamel must be permanently removed.
  
• Some patients may experience temporary or prolonged tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure. In rare cases, further treatment is required.

Durability & Appearance

• Veneers are durable but can chip, crack, or detach under heavy biting forces or with habits such as grinding.
  
• While carefully shade-matched, results may not always be a perfect colour match.

Gum & Oral Health

• Poor oral hygiene or an improper fit may cause gum irritation or inflammation.
  
• Veneers may require replacement over time due to natural wear, damage, or changes in the surrounding teeth and gums.

Post-Treatment Adjustments

• Mild discomfort, inflammation, or sensitivity is possible.
  
• Your bite may feel different at first and may require small adjustments.

Rare Reactions

• Very rarely, patients may react to anaesthetic or dental materials. Please inform us of any allergies, medications, or sensitivities before treatment.