Why gaps matter

Dental implants
An implant is a small titanium post placed into the jaw, acting as an artificial root. Because bone fuses to the metal through osseointegration, the result feels secure, restores close to natural bite force, and preserves facial volume. Crowns are crafted in porcelain or zirconia for seamless colour matching. Implants can replace a single tooth, support a bridge, or stabilise a full arch denture.

Bridges
A conventional bridge uses the healthy teeth on either side of a gap as anchors for a false tooth in the middle. Preparation involves reshaping those supporting teeth and fitting them with protective crowns joined to the replacement tooth. Bridges are fitted more quickly than implants and require no surgery, yet they do sacrifice some healthy enamel and do not prevent the gradual loss of bone beneath the missing root.

Removable partial dentures
A partial denture is a lightweight acrylic or metal plate carrying replacement teeth that clip around the remaining natural teeth. It offers the most economical route and can be added to if further teeth are lost. However, stability is lower than with fixed options, and some patients find the plate affects speech or taste.

Three-dimensional CBCT planning
Every implant case at Perry Vale begins with a cone beam computed tomography scan. This low-dose three-dimensional image maps bone height, nerve positions and sinus boundaries, allowing the clinician to design the implant’s depth and angulation with pinpoint accuracy. A digitally printed surgical guide is produced to transfer that plan to the mouth, shortening procedure time and reducing post-operative discomfort.

Comfort through sedation
For patients who feel anxious, inhalation sedation with nitrous oxide and oxygen offers gentle relaxation while keeping you awake and responsive. Those who prefer a deeper level can choose intravenous sedation administered by a specially trained dentist and monitored throughout the visit. Whichever method you select, local anaesthetic is still used to numb the surgical area completely.

Flexible payment plans
Perry Vale Dental understands that implants represent a significant investment. Interest-free finance for up to twelve calendar months spreads the cost without extra fees, and longer terms are available at a modest fixed rate. Treatment is quoted in writing, with laboratory and review appointments included, so there are no hidden charges later.

Which option is right for you?
A detailed consultation explores gum health, bone volume, medical history and personal priorities. Some patients combine approaches, for example using two implants to support a bridge. Whatever you decide, our team will guide you from first scan to final polish, ensuring your new smile feels as good as it looks.

Book your assessment
Call the Forest Hill reception or use our online booking portal to reserve a complimentary implant suitability appointment. A stronger bite and renewed confidence could be closer than you think.

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Clear aligners offer a discreet, comfortable way to straighten teeth without metal brackets. Below is the exact path our Forest Hill patients take—from their first scan to long-term retainers—so you know what to expect every step of the way.

1. Complimentary Digital Smile Scan
We invite you for a free iTero™ 3-D scan that replaces old-fashioned putty impressions. The scanner maps your teeth in minutes while you relax in the chair, giving exact data for precise aligner manufacture.

2. On-the-Spot 3-D Smile Preview
Moments after the scan, our Invisalign Outcome Simulator shows a side-by-side view of your current bite and predicted result. This helps you visualise your future smile and ask questions before you commit.

3. Custom Aligner Fabrication
Your scan is sent securely to Invisalign’s laboratory, where a series of BPA-free SmartTrack™ aligners is printed and laser-trimmed to fit your gumline. Typical turnaround: 2 weeks from scan to delivery at the practice.

4. Fitting Appointment & Attachments
When the aligners arrive, we add tiny tooth-coloured “attachments” to create gentle purchase points for complex movements. You’ll practise inserting and removing the trays, receive your first two-month supply, and download the MyInvisalign® app for weekly photo check-ins.

5. Wear Schedule & Check-ups
• Wear each aligner 22 hours a day, changing to the next set every 7–10 days.
• Attend in-surgery reviews every 6–8 weeks (or remote reviews via the app) so we can monitor progress and hand you new batches.
Typical timeline:
– Mild crowding/relapse: 4–6 months
– Moderate spacing/rotation: 8–12 months
– Complex movements: 12–18 months+

6. Finishing Touches
Near the end we refine your smile with a “mid-course correction” if needed, remove attachments, and offer complementary enamel polish or whitening at NHS or private rates according to your plan.

7. Retainers: Protecting Your Investment
You’ll leave with three sets of Vivera™ or Essix retainers (included in your fee). Wear them full-time for the first fortnight, then nights only for life. Retainers cost far less than repeat treatment, so we recommend ordering spares every couple of years.

8. Ready to Begin?
Book your free consultation today. Initial scans take 20 minutes and there is no obligation. Most patients can start treatment within a fortnight.

1. Communicate Your Fears: Discuss your concerns with your dentist. Being open about your anxiety allows the dental team to tailor their approach to make you more comfortable.
2. Use Relaxation Techniques: Practicing deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music can help reduce anxiety before and during dental visits.
3. Consider Sedation Dentistry: For those with severe anxiety, sedation options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedatives can make dental procedures more tolerable. Discuss these options with your dentist to find the best solution for you.
4. Take a Trusted Person Along: Having a friend or family member accompany you can provide emotional support and make the experience less stressful.
5. Focus on the Benefits: Remind yourself of the positive outcomes of maintaining good oral health. Regular dental care can prevent serious issues and promote overall well-being.
6. Choose the Right Dentist: Finding a dentist who understands and is experienced in dealing with anxious patients can make a significant difference. Look for a practice that prioritises patient comfort and care.

Implementing these strategies can help transform dental visits from a source of fear to a manageable and even positive experience. Taking steps to address dental anxiety ensures you receive the necessary care to maintain a healthy smile.

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining good oral health. These routine visits allow dentists to detect early signs of dental issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer, which might not be visible or painful yet. Early detection can prevent more serious and costly treatments down the line.

During a check-up, your dentist will also perform professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing might miss. This helps in preventing tooth decay and gum disease, keeping your mouth healthy and your smile bright.

Additionally, regular visits provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns or questions you might have about your oral hygiene routine or any dental procedures. Dentists can offer personalised advice and recommend treatments to suit your specific needs.

In conclusion, regular dental check-ups are a proactive approach to maintaining oral health, ensuring early detection and prevention of potential issues, and receiving professional cleaning and personalised dental care advice. Make sure to schedule your next appointment to keep your teeth and gums in optimal condition.

What Is a Dental X-Rays?

During your dental X-ray, you’ll wear a heavy lead vest and be required to sit still and bite down on a bitewing for just a few minutes while you get pictures of your teeth taken at every angle.

WHY IS A DENTAL X-RAY NECESSARY?

A dental X-ray allows your dentist to have a comprehensive, unhindered look at your teeth and gums in order to detect potential shifts or issues that aren’t visible to the naked eye. X-rays are especially helpful when it comes to detecting impacted wisdom teeth and early-stage gum disease.

ARE X-RAYS DANGEROUS?

The only risk that you have when getting an X-ray is radiation exposure. However, you won’t have to worry about the damaging effects of radiation exposure due to advancements in X-ray technology that have curbed the amount of radiation you’re exposed to during the process, and given how quickly dental X-rays are taken. The amount of radiation that you’ll potentially be exposed to is quite minimal. Not to mention that you won’t have X-rays taken during every appointment!

Should I Get a Dental X-Rays?

If you have weakened immunity, are pregnant, or are an elderly patient, talk to your doctor first before getting X-rays. Unless your doctor has instructed otherwise, you should absolutely get dental X-rays taken! Not only is it completely safe to get dental X-rays, but it will also help your dentist deliver more accurate and individualized care. Not having an X-ray taken puts you at risk of developing gum disease or suffering from tooth decay.

HOW OFTEN WILL I NEED A DENTAL X-RAY?

You will need them if you’re a new patient or have a preexisting condition we need to monitor, otherwise you should expect to have X-rays taken only about every year or so.

We Will Help You Feel Comfortable!

At Perry Vale Dental, it’s our goal to deliver quality and affordable dental care without sacrificing on comfort. If you have any questions about the dental X-ray process or any of our other procedures, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!