Treatment Risks

• Infection: Though uncommon, infection can occur around the implant site, causing pain and inflammation.

• Implant failure: If implant does not fuse with the jawbone properly, this can lead to loose or wobbly implant that may require removal.

• Nerve Damage: Nearby nerves can be damaged, which can cause numbness or tingling in the lips, gums or cheeks.

• Sinus Complications: Depending on location of the implants, some upper implants may push into the sinus cavities, leading to sinus inflammation and infection.

Additional Procedures: Sinus lift and bone grafting may be recommended to support the implant. These procedures can carry additional risks.

• Tooth Sensitivity: To attach the veneer, a small layer of the enamel is removed. Teeth may develop sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.This is usually a temporary side effect but can last for months in some cases.

• Gum Issues or Recession: Improper fitting of veneers or poor oral health can lead to gum irritation, swelling or gum disease which can lead to gum recession.

• Veneer Damage and Appearance: Whilst porcelain veneer is strong, if subjected to pressure from biting nails or hard objects or constant teeth grinding, it can chip. Similarly, over time, adjacent natural teeth can change colour but not veneers, which may lead to colour mismatch.

Veneers Detachment: If there is tooth decay underneath the veneers or if the bonding agent fails, then veneers can become detached.

• Staining/Chipping/ Wear: These veneers can stain or chip over time.

• Temporary Tooth Sensitivity: This can occur a few days after the procedure to hot or cold temperatures but usually resolve within a few days.

• Gum Irritation: this can occur if veneers are not properly fitted.

• Gum Disease/ Teeth Decay: As the clear aligners are designed to be worn 20 to 22 hours per day, failure to brush or floss properly after meals, can lead to trapping of foods and bacteria and may cause teeth decay and gum issues.

• Temporary Discomfort or Irritation: as teeth move, in particular changing to a new aligner, some discomfort can occur as well as irritation to cheeks, tongue or gums.

Temporary Speech Changes: When wearing new aligners, a temporary lisp may occur. Any speech impediments should resolve within 1 to 2 weeks.

In-chair whitening, supervised by a dental professional, is generally safer as they will protect your gums during the process. But there are some side effects to consider:

• Temporary Teeth Sensitivity: This is common and can cause sensitivity to cold or heat but is usually resolved after a few days.

Soft Tissues Irritation: Can occur if the whitening gel touches the gum, lips or tongue.