1. Introduction
This consent form provides information about fixed prosthodontic treatments including bridges, crowns, veneers, inlays, and onlays. These restorations are used to replace missing teeth, restore damaged teeth, or improve the appearance of teeth.
2. Description of Procedures
- Crowns: A cap that covers and restores the shape, size, strength, and appearance of a damaged tooth.
- Bridges: A prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth or implants.
- Veneers: Thin shells of porcelain or resin composite material bonded to the front of the teeth to improve appearance.
- Inlays and Onlays: Restorations that fit within (inlay) or over (onlay) the biting surface of a tooth, typically made of porcelain, gold, or resin composite.
3. Benefits of Treatment
- Restores function and appearance of damaged or missing teeth.
- Improves oral health by maintaining proper bite alignment.
- Enhances the overall aesthetics of your smile.
4. Risks and Complications
4.1 Crowns
- Tooth Sensitivity: May cause temporary or permanent sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure.
- Decay: Potential for decay under the crown if oral hygiene is inadequate.
- Fracture or Loosening: Crowns can chip, fracture, or come loose, requiring repair or replacement.
- Gum Irritation: Possible irritation or inflammation around the crown margins.
- Tooth Nerve Damage: In some cases, the tooth may require root canal treatment if the nerve becomes damaged during crown preparation.
4.2 Bridges
- Decay: Supporting teeth (abutments) may decay if not properly cleaned, risking the stability of the bridge.
- Fracture or Loosening: Bridges can chip, fracture, or become loose over time.
- Gum Irritation: Potential irritation or inflammation of gums around the bridge.
- Increased Stress on Abutment Teeth: Abutment teeth may experience increased stress, potentially leading to damage or failure.
- Root Canal Treatment: There is a 20% risk that abutment teeth supporting the bridge may require root canal treatment during or after the procedure.
4.3 Veneers
- Sensitivity: Temporary or permanent sensitivity, especially to temperature changes.
- Fracture or Chipping: Veneers can chip or fracture if exposed to excessive force.
- Color Mismatch: The veneer color may not perfectly match surrounding teeth and cannot be changed after bonding.
- Gum Recession: Recession over time may expose the edges of the veneer, affecting aesthetics.
4.4 Inlays and Onlays
- Tooth Sensitivity: May cause temporary or permanent sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure.
- Fracture or Loosening: Inlays and onlays can chip, fracture, or come loose, requiring repair or replacement.
- Decay: Risk of decay around the edges of the restoration if oral hygiene is inadequate.
- Gum Irritation: Possible irritation around the restoration, especially during the healing period.
5. Alternatives to Treatment
- No treatment (which may result in worsening of current conditions).
- Removable partial or complete dentures.
- Implant-supported restorations.
6. Post-Operative Care
- Maintain good oral hygiene practices, including brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that may damage restorations.
- Report any discomfort, loosening, or unusual sensations to your dentist promptly.
7. Shade Selection and Fees
- Shade Choice Responsibility: The patient is responsible for the final selection of the shade of the restorations. Any required shade change after manufacturing will incur a fee of £40 per unit.
8. Acknowledgment and Consent
I acknowledge that I have received a thorough explanation of the nature of the fixed prosthodontic procedures, the benefits, risks, and potential complications, as well as the alternative treatments available. I have had the opportunity to ask questions and receive answers to my satisfaction. I understand that no guarantees or warranties have been made regarding the outcome of these treatments.
I understand and accept that there is a 20% risk that an abutment tooth for a bridge may require root canal treatment. I also accept responsibility for the shade choice of my restorations and agree to pay a fee of £40 per unit if any shade change is required after manufacturing.
I consent to the recommended fixed prosthodontic procedures, including the necessary adjustments or modifications during the treatment process.