Important Information Before 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.

At Coast Dental, we provide orthodontic treatment, including fixed braces and clear aligners, to address functional concerns such as gaps between teeth and bite misalignments, including overbite, underbite, crossbite, and deep bite. Our treatments are planned and supervised by an experienced dental team to support proper oral function and long-term dental health.

Treatment Pathway Overview

Initial Assessment and Planning
Your orthodontic care begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health and bite. We assess spacing and alignment concerns before recommending treatment options that best support functional improvement.

Selection of Treatment Option
Depending on your needs, our clinicians may suggest fixed braces or clear aligners. The choice is based on the type of misalignment and the functional objectives identified during your assessment.

Functional Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

• Chewing Efficiency: Proper alignment allows for even distribution of biting forces, reducing strain on individual teeth and the jaw.
• Oral Hygiene Access: Clear aligners may allow easier cleaning in some instances compared to fixed appliances, supporting better oral hygiene.
• Chewing Efficiency: Proper alignment allows for even distribution of biting forces, reducing strain on individual teeth and the jaw.

Possible Risks and Considerations

While orthodontic treatment is generally safe, patients should be aware of potential considerations:

• Temporary Discomfort: Mild pressure or soreness may occur, especially after adjustments or when starting new aligners.
• Soft Tissue Irritation: Fixed appliances may cause minor irritation to lips, cheeks, or gums in the early stages.
• Oral Hygiene Challenges: Braces or aligners may retain plaque if not cleaned thoroughly, which can increase the risk of gum inflammation or tooth decay.
• Compliance-Dependent Outcomes: Results may vary if aligners are not worn or appliances are not maintained as advised.
• Adjustment Needs: Occasional refinements may be necessary to ensure treatment progresses as planned.

These considerations will be explained during your consultation to support informed decision-making.

Maintenance and Aftercare

• Appliance Care: Aligners should be worn as instructed, and braces require thorough cleaning around brackets and wires.
• Oral Hygiene Routine: Brush and floss daily, using floss threaders if needed, to maintain gum and tooth health during treatment.
• Scheduled Check-Ups: Regular appointments allow timely adjustments and functional monitoring.
• Retention Phase: After active treatment, retainers may be recommended to help maintain tooth position and prevent relaps

Disclaimer: This information is general and provided to support patient understanding of orthodontic treatment. Outcomes may vary depending on individual oral health, habits, and adherence to care instructions. Please consult a qualified dentist at Coast Dental for advice tailored to your specific needs.

At Coast Dental, our dental veneers service is designed to support functional improvements for patients with specific dental concerns. Whether addressing wear, minor chips, or uneven surfaces, our custom-made porcelain or composite veneers are created to enhance tooth strength, stability, and long-term function.

Functional Purpose of Veneers

Veneers are thin, custom-fitted shells bonded to the front surface of teeth. They are intended to:

• Protect teeth affected by erosion, wear, or minor damage
• Stabilise weakened surfaces that may be prone to further deterioration.
• Correct slight misalignments that affect biting efficiency.
• Support durability for routine biting and force distribution

Our dental team can discuss whether porcelain or composite veneers are more suitable for your functional needs.

Treatment Process at Coast Dental

Step 1: Assessment and Planning
Treatment begins with a detailed evaluation of your oral health, bite, and tooth structure. Our clinicians will determine whether veneers are suitable for functional improvement or if alternatives, such as onlays or orthodontic care, may be more suitable.

Step 2: Preparation and Impressions
If veneers are recommended, a small amount of enamel may be removed to accommodate the veneer. Digital scans or impressions are then taken to ensure an accurate fit that supports optimal function.

Step 3: Fabrication and Placement
Veneers are manufactured in a trusted dental laboratory and then bonded using a dental adhesive. Bite alignment (occlusion) is checked, and minor adjustments are made to ensure functional comfort.

Possible Risks and Considerations

While veneer treatment is routine, there are some considerations to be aware of:

• Permanent enamel removal may lead to increased sensitivity
• Temporary sensitivity to pressure or temperature may occur
• Veneers can chip or detach under excessive force or grinding
• Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of gum irritation
• Adjustments may be needed after placement to ensure functional comfort
• Material sensitivities are rare; please inform us of any known allergies before treatment

These considerations will be explained during your consultation to help you make an informed decision.

Maintenance and Aftercare

To maintain the functional lifespan of your veneers:

• Brush and floss consistently to support oral health
• Avoid chewing hard or abrasive objects that may damage veneers
• Attend regular check-ups so our team can monitor bite and fit
• If clenching or grinding occurs, a protective night guard may be recommended

With proper care, porcelain veneers may last 10 to 15 years, while composite veneers typically last 4 to 8 years.

Disclaimer: Individual treatment outcomes may vary depending on oral health and patient-specific factors. This information is provided to support informed healthcare decisions. Please consult with a qualified dentist at Coast Dental for advice specific to your circumstances.