Treatment Information & Considerations

Orthodontic treatments using Invisalign or clear aligners may involve some discomfort, tenderness, or irritation to the gums, cheeks, or lips as teeth begin to move. These effects are usually temporary and vary between individuals. Clear aligners may also temporarily affect speech, creating a mild lisp that typically resolves within one to two weeks.

Successful outcomes depend on wearing the aligners for the recommended number of hours per day and attending regular check-ups. Failure to do so may lengthen treatment time or reduce effectiveness. In some complex cases, additional orthodontic measures such as bonded attachments, elastics, or minor reshaping of teeth may be required. Retainers must be worn indefinitely after treatment to reduce the chance of teeth moving back.

During treatment, some dietary adjustments may be recommended, although most people continue with their usual activities. Tooth decay, gum disease, or decalcification (permanent white spots) may occur if aligners are worn without proper oral hygiene. In some cases, gums may not fully regrow between previously crowded teeth, leaving small gaps known as “black triangles.”

Treatment duration varies depending on complexity and biological response. Your dentist will provide an individualised maintenance schedule, which may involve further costs beyond the initial treatment.

Traditional implants replace one or a few missing teeth, while All-on implants replace a full arch of teeth with 4–6 implants supporting a fixed bridge. At Smile Design Studio, advanced digital planning and 3D imaging are used to guide treatment and reduce risks, but as with all surgical procedures, complications may occur.

Before surgery, you may be advised to stop habits such as smoking, sometimes weeks in advance, to stabilise oral health. Long-term dietary or lifestyle adjustments may be recommended to protect your results. Supporting procedures, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts, may also be required to ensure secure placement of implants, and each carries its own risks.

In the upper jaw, bone quality is often lower and implants may be placed close to the sinus. Complications may include bone fracture, insufficient implant stability, or accidental sinus involvement. In the lower jaw, implants may be close to nerves that provide sensation to the lips, chin, and tongue. In rare cases, surgery or swelling can affect these nerves, usually temporarily but occasionally long-term.

Sometimes implants may not integrate with bone and are considered to have failed. Failed implants need to be removed and replaced, which may require further procedures if bone volume is insufficient. Patients may not notice a failed implant, which is why regular 4–6 monthly monitoring is crucial.

Following surgery, swelling and bruising may peak around day 4 before subsiding. Bleeding for 24–48 hours is not uncommon, and pain or discomfort may continue for 1–2 weeks, managed with prescribed medication. Patients should avoid strenuous activities for 24–48 hours and exercise for up to 10 days. Smoking significantly increases the risk of failure and infection. Recovery usually requires soft, cool foods and in some cases time off work or support at home. Anaesthesia risks will be explained in advance.

Healing and recovery vary, but full settling usually occurs within two weeks. Ongoing care and professional maintenance of implants and prostheses are essential for long-term success and may involve costs beyond the initial treatment plan.

We offer two types of teeth whitening in our clinic. Whitening is generally safe when carried out under professional supervision, but side effects are possible.

ZOOM!

Our in house whitening system is all done for you in about 2 hours. 

Before whitening, we recommend a professional clean to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains so whitening can work more effectively.

The gums are protected with a barrier gel during treatment so that the whitening agent does not touch the soft tissues. Despite these precautions, the most common side effect is sensitivity. This can be more noticeable in people with exposed dentine, gum recession, or worn enamel. Some patients experience short bursts of sensitivity known as “zingers” for up to 24 hours after treatment, which can be managed with anti-inflammatory medication.

Whitening may also temporarily make natural white spots more visible due to dehydration of the enamel, but this usually resolves within 24 hours as the teeth rehydrate. The degree of whitening varies between individuals and cannot be guaranteed. Crowns, veneers, and fillings will not lighten.

Whitening is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Results are not permanent and depend on diet, lifestyle, and oral care habits. We recommend avoiding staining foods and drinks for at least one week after whitening to help maintain results.

Crown treatment often involves removing enamel around the full circumference of the tooth, which cannot be naturally replaced. This can sometimes lead to temporary or longer-term sensitivity to temperature or pressure. Crowns are durable but can chip, fracture, or detach over time, especially with habits like grinding.

Colour matching is done carefully, but outcomes may not always meet expectations. Gums can become irritated if oral hygiene is not maintained or if crowns do not fit correctly. Crowns are not permanent and may require replacement due to wear, damage, or changes in surrounding teeth and gums. Treatment is usually completed in 2 visits, and most patients can continue with daily activities, though some may need short rest periods.

Crowns are often placed on teeth that are heavily restored or broken down. Because these teeth are already compromised, there is a chance they may require further treatment such as root canal therapy in the future. Research suggests around one in eight crowned teeth may need a root canal at some point. Ongoing care and maintenance are important to prolong the life of a crown, and additional costs may apply.

Neuromuscular treatment is non-invasive and generally low-risk, but there are situations where it may not be suitable. We do not recommend it for pregnant patients, as it has not been specifically studied in this group, or for patients with pacemakers due to possible interference with the equipment.

The orthotic used in treatment is removable and reversible. In some cases, it may not relieve symptoms or may require adjustments to improve fit or bite. If discomfort occurs, adjustments can usually resolve the issue. In some situations, a second phase of treatment may be recommended to make permanent bite changes, but this will only be advised once phase one is completed and reviewed.

We generally recommend completing essential dental work before neuromuscular treatment so that teeth are stable and not undergoing further changes that may alter the bite.