Treatment Risks
Treatment Risks Overview
As registered health practitioners, our role reaches beyond your teeth to your overall wellbeing. Every plan starts with your goals and your dental history, and we aim to recommend care that suits your individual needs and circumstances.
At times, restorative, surgical or cosmetic treatment may be recommended to support the function, strength or appearance of your teeth. Many procedures achieve their intended aims, but every treatment carries some level of risk, and results vary from person to person.
The pages below outline possible risks and side effects linked with the treatments we offer. This is general information to help you make informed decisions and does not replace personal advice. Your dentist will discuss the risks and suitability that apply to you at your consultation, along with your options and costs, before anything begins. Possible risks include, but are not limited to, those listed on each page.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Possible Risks by Treatment
Choose a treatment to read its possible risks, side effects and aftercare.
Dental Implants and All-on-X
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed in the jawbone to support a crown, bridge or denture. Full-arch implant treatment (All-on-X) uses several implants to support a fixed set of teeth across the whole upper or lower jaw, as an alternative to a removable denture. Implant-retained dentures use implants to help hold a removable denture in place.
Treatment is planned using 3D imaging (CBCT, cone beam computed tomography) where clinically appropriate. Careful planning aims to support accurate placement, but all surgery carries risks that cannot be fully removed.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Key Information
- Implant treatment is suitable for some patients only, following a detailed assessment.
- Additional procedures, such as bone grafting or a sinus lift, may be needed to support an implant. These carry their own risks, which will be explained beforehand.
- Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, gum disease and some medications that affect bone can increase the risk of complications. You may be advised to make changes before treatment.
- Your treatment plan may involve further appointments or costs beyond the initial estimate if your situation changes.
- Other options, including bridges, dentures or no treatment, will be discussed with you.
Treatment Process and Appointments
Treatment is usually completed over several appointments, including planning, surgery, review visits and fitting of the final teeth. Healing and bonding of the implant with the bone can take several months, and timeframes vary between individuals. Some people need time away from work after surgery, particularly if sedation or general anaesthesia is used.
Expected Short-Term Effects
- Pain, swelling and bruising, which often peak a few days after surgery before settling
- Minor bleeding in the first day or two
- Tiredness on the day of surgery
- A soft diet for a period to protect the healing site
Surgical Considerations
Upper jaw: implants are often placed near the sinus cavities, where bone can be softer. The sinus may be involved during surgery, which can require further treatment at the time or later.
Lower jaw: implants are placed near nerves that provide feeling to the lip, chin, tongue and gums. Altered sensation is usually temporary but can occasionally be permanent.
Placing several implants in one procedure, as in full-arch treatment, can increase the likelihood of complications.
Less Common or Ongoing Risks
- Infection of the gums, bone or implant site
- An implant not bonding with the bone, or losing stability later, meaning it must be removed. Replacement may be possible, sometimes after bone grafting.
- Inflammation and bone loss around implants over time (peri-implantitis)
- Loosening or fracture of screws, crowns, bridges, the full-arch prosthesis or, rarely, the implant itself
- Gum shrinkage exposing implant edges or leaving small gaps
- Changes to bite or speech that need adjustment
Full-Arch Treatment (All-on-X)
For suitable patients after a detailed assessment, a fixed temporary set of teeth may be fitted soon after surgery. A final prosthesis is made once healing allows. Eating, speaking and cleaning can feel different while you adjust, and failure of one implant can affect the stability of the whole bridge.
Implant-Retained Dentures
The surgical risks above apply. Clips and attachments wear over time and need periodic replacement, and the denture may need relining, repair or replacement.
Care and Ongoing Maintenance
Implants need daily cleaning with suitable tools and regular professional reviews. Components may need adjustment or replacement over time. If you grind or clench, a protective night guard may be recommended. Contact us promptly if you notice bleeding, swelling or looseness around an implant.
Crowns and Bridges
A crown covers and protects a weakened or damaged tooth. A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by attaching to neighbouring teeth. Both are custom-made to support chewing and appearance. Same-day crowns using CEREC technology are available for suitable cases; not every crown or bridge can be made in one visit.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Key Information
- Preparing a tooth removes tooth structure. This cannot be reversed.
- Crowns and bridges are not permanent and will need repair or replacement over time.
- Extra treatment, such as a core build-up, a post or preparation of neighbouring teeth for a bridge, may be required.
- Material choice depends on the tooth’s position, bite forces and appearance.
Treatment Process and Appointments
Same-day crowns are designed, made and fitted in one visit where suitable. Other crowns and bridges are usually completed over two or more visits, with a temporary restoration placed in between. Extra visits may be needed for bite adjustment.
Expected Short-Term Effects
- Sensitivity to hot and cold after tooth preparation
- Tenderness of the gum around the treated tooth
- A temporary crown may loosen before the final restoration is fitted
Less Common or Ongoing Risks
- Irritation of the nerve inside the tooth, which may later need root canal treatment
- Chipping, cracking, wear or loosening, particularly under heavy biting forces
- Decay at the edge of a crown or under a bridge if cleaning is difficult
Uncommon but Significant Risks
- Fracture of the underlying tooth, which can limit the options for keeping it
- Allergic reaction to restorative materials
Care and Ongoing Maintenance
Brush and floss carefully around the crown edge and under bridges, and attend regular reviews. A night guard may be recommended if you clench or grind.
Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment aims to save a tooth with an infected or inflamed nerve. Damaged tissue is removed, and the canals are cleaned, shaped and sealed to reduce the chance of further infection. Without treatment, the tooth often needs to be removed.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Key Information
- A root-treated tooth can function for many years, but it does not regain its original strength. A crown is often recommended to reduce the risk of fracture.
- Alternatives include extraction, followed by an implant, bridge, denture or leaving the gap.
- Some complex cases may be referred to a registered specialist.
Treatment Process and Appointments
Treatment may be completed in one visit, though more involved cases need two or more. Medication may be placed in the canals between visits. A temporary filling is placed until the tooth is permanently restored.
Expected Short-Term Effects
- Tenderness when biting for several days
- Mild swelling or bruising of the surrounding gum
Less Common or Ongoing Risks
- Persistent infection requiring retreatment or surgery
- Fracture of the tooth if it is not protected
- A fine instrument separating inside a canal, perforation of the root, or canals that cannot be found or fully cleaned
- Reactions to local anaesthetic or prescribed medication
Uncommon but Significant Risks
- Treatment not resolving the infection, so the tooth still needs to be removed
- Infection spreading beyond the tooth and surrounding bone
Care and Ongoing Maintenance
Avoid heavy chewing on the tooth until it is permanently restored, and have the final restoration placed promptly. Good oral hygiene and regular reviews help reduce the risk of reinfection.
Porcelain Veneers and Smile Makeover
Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front of teeth to change their shape, size or colour. A smile makeover is a planned combination of treatments, which may include veneers, crowns, whitening, orthodontics or gum procedures. Veneers are a considered decision that should follow a thorough consultation, and outcomes vary from person to person.
Key Information
- Related procedures, such as gum reshaping, may be recommended. Each carries its own risks, which will be discussed before any decision.
- For a smile makeover, the risks of each treatment involved apply.
- Digital planning is a guide only. The final result can differ.
- Veneers are not permanent and will need replacing over time, which involves further cost.
- Other options may suit you depending on your circumstances.
Treatment Process and Appointments
Veneers are usually completed over several appointments, covering planning, preparation, temporaries and fitting. A smile makeover may be staged over a longer period. Most people continue normal activities, though sensitivity may require short-term adjustments.
Enamel Reduction and Sensitivity
Preparing teeth for veneers usually removes a thin layer of enamel, which does not grow back. The teeth will then need a veneer or other restoration from that point on. Sensitivity to temperature or pressure can be temporary or, in some cases, prolonged and may need further review.
Longevity and Appearance
- Veneers can chip, crack or come loose, particularly with grinding, nail biting or biting hard objects.
- Shade matching aims to blend with surrounding teeth, but an exact match is not always possible.
- Veneers do not change colour, while natural teeth around them may change over time.
Gum Health Considerations
Gum irritation or inflammation can develop if veneer edges are not cleaned well. Gums can recede over time and expose the edge of a veneer, which may affect appearance.
Aftercare and Functional Changes
Temporary soreness, sensitivity or gum irritation may be noticed after fitting. Bite changes may need minor adjustments.
Uncommon Reactions
Reactions to anaesthetic or veneer materials are uncommon but can occur. Please tell us about any allergies or medications in advance.
Braces and Clear Aligners
Braces and clear aligners move teeth gradually into new positions to improve bite and alignment. Change happens over time rather than immediately, and the response varies between individuals depending on biology and daily habits. Some cases may be referred to a registered specialist.
General Treatment Considerations
- Initial discomfort: pressure or tenderness after adjustments or when moving to a new aligner.
- Bite adaptation: the way teeth meet can change, sometimes requiring refinement.
- Treatment time: treatment may take longer if appliances are not worn as advised or teeth move more slowly than expected.
- Post-treatment movement: teeth tend to move back after treatment, so retainers are needed long term.
- Oral health: appliances trap plaque, raising the risk of decay, white marks and gum inflammation if cleaning is inconsistent.
- Functional changes: speech and chewing may feel different while you adjust.
Braces
- Soft tissue irritation: brackets and wires can rub on lips and cheeks and cause ulcers.
- Component damage: brackets or wires can loosen or break, needing extra visits.
- Surface changes: white or discoloured marks on enamel can remain after brackets are removed.
Clear Aligners
- Wear consistency: aligners must be worn for the hours advised each day to work as planned.
- Attachments: tooth-coloured attachments can come off and need replacing.
- Planned versus actual movement: teeth may not move exactly as planned, and refinement aligners or another approach may be needed.
- Saliva changes: some people notice a dry mouth or extra saliva.
Uncommon but Significant Risks
- Shortening of tooth roots (root resorption)
- Gum recession or small gaps between teeth
- Jaw joint discomfort as the bite changes
Ongoing Care and Long-Term Planning
- Wear retainers as instructed to help keep teeth in position.
- Attend regular reviews so progress can be monitored and adjusted.
- Brush and floss thoroughly and clean aligners daily.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage braces.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening aims to lighten the colour of natural teeth. It does not change the colour of fillings, crowns or veneers. Suitability and results vary and depend on your oral health, the type of staining and your habits.
Key Information
- Whitening is best suited to healthy natural teeth without untreated decay or gum disease.
- Existing restorations will not lighten and may need replacing to match.
- Whitening is generally deferred during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Overuse or incorrect use of whitening products can damage enamel and gums.
Your dentist will advise which whitening approach suits your situation.
Expected Short-Term Effects
- Sensitivity to cold, air or sweet foods
- Gum irritation if gel contacts soft tissue
Less Common or Ongoing Risks
- Uneven lightening, particularly with internal staining or existing dental work
- Some stains responding poorly or not at all
- Sensitivity lasting several weeks
Uncommon but Significant Risks
- Chemical irritation or burns to the gums or lips from incorrect use
- Inflammation of the tooth nerve, which could require root canal treatment
Care and Ongoing Maintenance
Results fade over time, particularly with tea, coffee, red wine or smoking. Use products only as directed, and ask your dentist before any top-up treatment.
Dentures
Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth, supporting chewing, speech and appearance. They are not permanent and usually need adjustment, relining or replacement over time. Other options, including implants or bridges, may suit some people.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Treatment Process and Appointments
Making dentures usually involves several appointments, including impressions or scans, trial fittings to check bite and appearance, and fitting. Review visits are needed after fitting to refine comfort and stability.
Expected Adjustment Effects
- Sore spots, gum tenderness or extra saliva in the early weeks
- Speech and eating feeling unfamiliar at first
- Temporary changes to taste or oral sensitivity
Less Common or Ongoing Risks
- Loosening as the jawbone and gums gradually change shape, needing relining, rebasing or replacement
- Rubbing or pressure areas if adjustments are not made
- Food trapping under dentures, which can increase the risk of decay and gum problems in any remaining teeth
Uncommon but Significant Risks
- Cracking or breakage from heavy biting or a fall
- Ongoing ulcers or fungal infection from a poorly fitting or poorly cleaned denture
- Allergic reaction to denture materials
Care and Ongoing Maintenance
Clean dentures daily with a soft brush and suitable cleanser, and remove them overnight unless advised otherwise. Regular reviews help check fit, tissues and remaining teeth.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to develop. Some come through without problems, but limited space or poor positioning can lead to impaction, pain or infection, and removal may be recommended. Complexity depends on the tooth’s position and how close it sits to nearby structures.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Key Information
- X-rays or 3D imaging are reviewed to assess whether removal is recommended.
- Monitoring instead of removal may be an option and can be discussed.
- Some complex cases may be referred to a registered specialist.
Treatment Process and Appointments
Removal may be carried out under local anaesthetic, sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on complexity and suitability. Most extractions are completed in one visit, with a review if needed. Stitches may be placed. Plan for several days of rest.
Expected Short-Term Effects
- Pain, swelling and bruising
- Bleeding in the first day or two
- Jaw stiffness and reduced mouth opening
- Discomfort when chewing or speaking
Less Common or Ongoing Risks
- Dry socket, where the healing clot is lost, causing pain and delayed healing
- Infection of the surrounding gum or bone
- Food trapping in the socket during healing
- Damage to neighbouring teeth or fillings, or a small root fragment being left in place
Surgical Considerations
Lower jaw: roots can sit close to nerves supplying the lip, chin and tongue. Altered sensation is usually temporary but can occasionally be permanent.
Upper jaw: roots can sit near the sinus. An opening into the sinus may occur and need further care.
Uncommon but Significant Risks
- Fracture of the jaw
- Prolonged altered sensation
- Ongoing infection needing further treatment
- Reactions to anaesthetic medications
Care Following Removal
Rest, avoid smoking and vigorous rinsing, use cold packs for swelling and follow a soft diet. Take any prescribed medication as directed and attend reviews.
Gum Treatments
Gum disease treatment aims to reduce infection and inflammation around the teeth through deep cleaning and ongoing maintenance. Perioplastic surgery and gum grafting are procedures to treat gum recession or reshape gum tissue.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Key Information
- Gum treatment does not restore lost bone, and results depend on gum thickness, bone support, oral hygiene and habits such as brushing technique or clenching.
- Gum disease can return, and ongoing maintenance is needed.
- Results of gum grafting and reshaping are not permanent in every case.
Treatment Process and Appointments
Treatment begins with an assessment of gum health and contributing factors. Some procedures are completed in one visit; others need review appointments while tissue heals over several weeks.
Expected Short-Term Effects
- Gum soreness, swelling and minor bleeding
- Sensitivity to temperature or brushing
- For grafts, discomfort where tissue is taken from, often the roof of the mouth
- Tightness or altered gum sensation
Less Common or Ongoing Risks
- Gums shrinking as inflammation settles, making teeth look longer or leaving small gaps
- Incomplete coverage of recession, or recession returning over time
- Prolonged sensitivity
- Treated gum differing in colour, texture or contour
- Some teeth affected by advanced gum disease may still be lost
Uncommon but Significant Risks
- Infection or delayed healing
- A graft not attaching
- Gum contour changes needing correction
Care and Ongoing Maintenance
Follow hygiene instructions, avoid aggressive brushing while healing, attend reviews and report increasing pain, swelling or bleeding promptly.
Sleep Dentistry and Sedation
Sedation options include happy gas (nitrous oxide), oral sedation, intravenous (IV) sedation and general anaesthesia. Sedation is not suitable for everyone, and suitability is assessed at your consultation. The risks of the dental treatment carried out under sedation also apply.
Key Information
- Your medical history and medications are reviewed to assess risk.
- You must follow fasting and medication instructions before treatment.
- A responsible adult must take you home after oral sedation, IV sedation or general anaesthesia.
Expected Short-Term Effects
- Drowsiness, dizziness, headache or tiredness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Partial or no memory of the appointment
- Bruising or irritation where an IV line is placed
Uncommon but Significant Risks
- Reactions to sedative or anaesthetic medications
- Changes to breathing, heart rate or blood pressure, which are monitored during treatment
Care Following Sedation
Do not drive, operate machinery, drink alcohol or make important decisions for the period your dentist advises.
Tooth Fillings
Fillings repair teeth affected by decay, wear or minor fractures, restoring shape and function.
Expected Short-Term Effects
- Sensitivity to hot, cold or biting
- A high spot on the filling that needs adjustment
Less Common or Ongoing Risks
- Wear, chipping, leaking or loss of the filling over time
- Where decay is deep, nerve inflammation or infection that may lead to root canal treatment or extraction
- Cracking of a heavily filled tooth, which may later need a crown
Care and Ongoing Maintenance
Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups help fillings last and allow early detection of new decay.
General, Preventive and Children's Dentistry
Routine and preventive care carries fewer risks than complex treatment, but some side effects and limitations still apply.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Check-Up and Clean
- Gums may bleed or feel tender after cleaning, especially if inflamed.
- Teeth may feel more sensitive once hardened deposits are removed.
- Weak fillings or crowns may chip or come loose during cleaning.
- Dental X-rays involve a low dose of radiation and are taken only where clinically useful.
Kids Dentistry
- Children face the same general risks as adults for the treatment provided.
- Children can bite their lip, cheek or tongue while numb. Please supervise them until the numbness wears off.
- Fillings in baby teeth can wear or come away and may need repair.
Emergency Dentistry
- Emergency care focuses on relieving symptoms and may be temporary, with further treatment usually needed.
- Some situations may need antibiotics or referral to a hospital or another practitioner.
- The risks of the specific treatment provided also apply.
Mouthguards
- A mouthguard is designed to reduce the risk of dental injury but cannot prevent all injuries to the teeth, jaw or face.
- Fit can change as teeth move or grow, and guards wear over time and may need replacing.
Teeth Grinding Treatment
- Treatment aims to reduce the effects of grinding on your teeth and may not stop grinding or clenching itself.
- Grinding has several possible contributing factors, and other health professionals may need to be involved.
Discuss Your Treatment Options
This is general information to help you make informed decisions and does not replace personal advice. Your dentist will discuss the risks and suitability that apply to you at your consultation, along with your options and costs, before anything begins.
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