My dentist has informed me that my lost tooth or teeth need to be replaced with prosthetic teeth supported by an implant following a thorough oral examination and study of my dental condition.

Recommended Treatment

My doctor has advised me to use root form dental implants in order to cure my ailment. I’m aware that root form implants are inserted into the jawbone during the treatment, and that the surgical phase of this treatment is followed by a prosthetic one.

Surgical Phase

I understand that sedation may be used, that a local anaesthetic will be administered as a part of the treatment, and that my gum tissues will be opened up to expose the bone. Implants will be inserted by tapping or threading them into corresponding holes which have been drilled into my jawbone. The implants will need to be tightly fitted and firmly held in place during the healing process.

Over and around the implants, the gum and soft tissues will be stitched together. A periodontal bandage or dressing may be applied.

The gums will be allowed to heal and osseointegrate for four to six months before further treatment. I realise that dentures are often unable to be worn during the early stages of healing.

I also understand that if clinical circumstances prevent the use of this implant system or render implanting impossible, my doctor will make an informed decision regarding the management of the situation.

I understand that in some cases, additional bone grafts or other types of implants are necessary to assist with the ridge of my jaw and the placement, closure, and stability of my implants.

At the conclusion of the procedure, your surgeon will evaluate whether or not you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. If required, he or she may open the surrounding tissues at the proper time and ensure implant stability. If the implant is deemed acceptable, an attachment will be connected to it. The procedure of making an implant prosthetic device can be commenced at this point.

Prosthetic Phase

This stage is just as crucial as the surgical one in terms of long-term success. During this part of the treatment, an implant prosthetic device will be attached to the implant.

Expected Benefits

I understand that the goal of dental implants is to enable me to have more functional prosthetic teeth. These teeth are held in place by the implants, which are in place to provide support, anchorage, and retention.

Principal Risks and Complications

I understand that dental implant surgery may not be successful in providing artificial teeth in some cases.

I understand that negative effects may occur as a result of surgery, medications, and anaesthesia, in addition to other factors.

The following are some of the complications which can occur due to this procedure:

• Bleeding
• Swelling
• Pain
• Facial discolouration
• Post-surgical infection
• Delayed healing
• Impact on speech
• Allergic reactions 
• Injury to teeth
• Bone fractures
• Nasal sinus penetrations
• Accidental swallowing of foreign matter
• Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods
• Shrinkage of the gum upon healing results in elongation of some teeth and greater spaces between some teeth
• Cracking or bruising of the corners of the mouth
• Restricted ability to open the mouth for several days or weeks
• Jaw joint injuries or associated muscle spasm
• Transient but on occasion permanent increased tooth looseness
• Transient but on occasion permanent numbness of the lip, tongue, teeth, chin, or gum

Although the precise length of any issues is impossible to predict, it is possible that they may be irreversible. I realise that the prosthetic device’s design and structure might play a significant role in whether or not the implant works. I understand that if an appliance or a prosthetic is removed, it may result in the loss of the device.

The loss would be the sole responsibility of the individual who makes these alterations. I have been advised that there is the potential that the connection between the implant and the tissue may fail, necessitating the removal of the implant.

This can happen during the preliminary phase when the implant is connected to the bone, or at any time afterwards. Any fixture that does not integrate will be removed. If the implants are to be replaced, a new fixture will need to be installed (followed by another three to six month healing period) or the prosthesis will be built on those fixtures that remain.

Crown & Bridges

With time, the screws that connect the prosthesis to the fixture may come loose. If this happens, they will need to be tightened. The restorations may have to be redone as time goes on. This may result in additional fees.

Over-Dentures

Denture teeth can wear down as a result of occlusal forces and may need to be replaced in time. The denture base may also require relining over time. Denture ‘housing’ and ‘O-Rings’ are parts that must be replaced on a regular basis. Your denture may be adjusted or changed, which will come with an additional cost.

Necessary Follow-up Care and Self-Care

I am aware that continuing to visit my dentist is critical. Implants, natural teeth, and prosthetic dentures require daily maintenance in a clean, sanitary manner. Implants and appliances must also be examined periodically and may need to be adjusted. I realise that following my doctor’s precise orders and directives is important for my health.

Smoking

As it may hinder gum healing and the successful outcome of my surgery, smoking or drinking may significantly impede the healing and integration of dental implants and bone/sinus grafts.

No Warranty or Guarantee

I understand that no warranty, guarantees, or assurances have been given to me that the proposed therapy will be fully effective. I am aware that my health professional cannot promise a certain outcome because of individual patient variations. Despite the best of care, there is always the possibility of failure, relapse, additional treatment, or deterioration in my current condition, including the potential loss of particular teeth. It is anticipated that the implant will be permanently fixed.

Publication of Records

I agree to the use of alternative implant systems or methods if clinical circumstances reveal that the implant systems described to me are unsuitable. I defer to my doctor’s discretion if clinical circumstances prevent the use of implants. I also give my permission to receive extra bone grafts or other types of grafts in order to strengthen the ridge of my jaw and help with the placement, closure, and stability of my implant(s). I consent to any change in design, materials, or treatment if it is judged that this is in my best interests.

I have been properly informed of the surgery’s nature, the method to be used, the risks and benefits of the operation, other treatment choices, and my responsibility for follow-up care and self-care. I have had the chance to ask any queries I may have about the treatment and to talk with my doctor about anything I’m worried about. I hereby consent to the dental implant surgery as described during the consultation and in the treatment plan presentation as outlined in this document after careful consideration.