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Treatment Risks

At Moonee Ponds Family Dentistry our focus is always on your overall health and wellbeing. We take a preventive approach and aim to provide the most conservative treatment option suitable for your individual needs.

In some cases, cosmetic, restorative, or surgical dental procedures may be appropriate to improve the function, strength, or appearance of teeth. While these treatments can deliver positive outcomes, it is important to understand that all procedures carry potential risks and limitations.

The information below outlines some general risks and side effects that may occur with dental treatment. This information is not exhaustive and does not replace a personalised consultation. Your dentist will discuss treatment options, risks, benefits, and alternatives specific to your circumstances before you proceed.

Key Points to Consider

  • All dental treatments involve some level of risk, including possible side effects, complications, or the need for further care.
  • Outcomes vary from person to person and cannot be guaranteed.
  • Recovery times, results, and maintenance requirements will differ depending on the procedure and the individual.
  • Your dentist will explain both the benefits and limitations of treatment so you can make an informed decision.
We encourage you to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner before proceeding with elective or cosmetic procedures.

Examples of Potential Risks

Risks may include (but are not limited to):

  • Tooth sensitivity or discomfort following treatment
  • Changes to the appearance or feel of treated teeth over time
  • Chipping, wear, or fracture of restorations such as veneers, crowns, or bonding
  • Gum irritation or inflammation
  • The need for future adjustments, replacements, or additional procedures
  • Rare but possible complications such as infection or allergic reaction
 

Important Note:
This content is general in nature and not a substitute for personalised medical or dental advice. The risks and suitability of treatment will be explained to you in detail by a registered AHPRA dentist during your consultation.

Last Updated on 13/05/2026

Dental Implant Possible Risk Considerations
  • 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.