FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

At the Centre for Advanced Dentistry & Implantology, we pride ourselves on patient comfort and care. Have a look at our frequently asked questions ahead of your visit.


1Is a referral necessary?
A referral is not necessary when booking an appointment with one of our dental specialists. You can simply call, email or request an appointment online through our website.
2What will medical aid cover?
This will depend on your medical aid scheme as well as the type of procedure you are undergoing. In some cases, aesthetic procedures will not be covered.
3What medical aids do we accept?
We are a not affiliated to or claim from any medical aids. However, where applicable, are guided by their rates. We also provide the patient with the receipts which has all the codes related to their treatment which they can use to submit to their medical aid.
4How do you book an appointment?
For any appointments and general queries, you can call or email our friendly staff at reception. Alternatively, you can request a date and time through our online contact form and we will get back to you to confirm availability.
5What is a Prosthodontist?

A prosthodontist is a qualified dentist who specializes in restoring and rebuilding smiles. They don’t just focus on how teeth look — they also make sure your teeth work properly so you can eat, speak, and smile with ease. Prosthodontists are experts in treatments like dental implants, crowns, bridges, and full mouth restorations. After dental school, they complete four extra years of advanced training, which gives them the skills to handle even the most complicated dental procedures.

6Is there a difference between a Cosmetic Dentist and a Prosthodontist?

A prosthodontist is a highly trained dental specialist who restores both the health and appearance of your smile. Their focus goes beyond looks — they are experts in rebuilding teeth, replacing missing teeth, and restoring full function so that you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence. This includes advanced treatments such as dental implants, crowns, bridges, and full mouth rehabilitation. After completing dental school, prosthodontists undergo an additional four years of intensive postgraduate training, giving them the expertise to manage even the most complex cases.

By comparison, a cosmetic dentist is primarily focused on enhancing the aesthetics of a smile. Treatments such as teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, and tooth contouring are designed to improve appearance. Cosmetic dentistry, however, is not a formally recognised dental specialty. Most cosmetic dentists are general dentists who have chosen to pursue further training in elective aesthetic procedures, which are best suited for patients with otherwise healthy teeth.

In essence, a prosthodontist provides specialized care for patients who require comprehensive dental restoration, while cosmetic dentists focus on elective procedures to enhance the beauty of already healthy smiles.

7What are the benefits of seeing a Prosthodontist?

A prosthodontist is a dental specialist who helps restore both the health and beauty of your smile. Choosing to see a Prosthodontist can make an incredible difference in your daily life Whether you’re missing teeth, struggling to chew, or feeling self-conscious about your smile, a Prosthodontist can help. Having a healthy, attractive smile often improves self-esteem and helps you feel more comfortable in social and professional settings.

Expert Care for Complex Needs: Whether you need implants, crowns, bridges, or dentures, Prosthodontists are specially trained to manage even the most challenging dental situations.

Better Oral Health and Function: Comfortable Eating: By replacing missing or damaged teeth with natural-looking restorations, prosthodontists make chewing easier and more effective, which also supports good digestion and overall health.

Clearer Speech: Teeth play an important role in how we speak. Restoring them can help improve speech and communication.

A Smile You Feel Confident About: Natural-Looking Results: Prosthodontists are skilled in creating smiles that not only function well but also look beautiful and natural.

Comprehensive and Personalized Treatment

Advanced Solutions: From full mouth reconstruction to treating conditions caused by injury, disease, or birth defects, Prosthodontists have the expertise to provide complete care tailored to your needs.

Relief from Jaw and Sleep Issues: They can also help with problems like jaw pain (TMJ

disorders) and provide custom devices to improve sleep apnoea.

Specialised Training and Modern Technology

Prosthodontists complete several additional years of advanced training after dental school, focusing on rebuilding and restoring smiles. They use the latest technology and techniques to create durable, comfortable, and natural-looking dental solutions.

Seeing a prosthodontist means placing your smile — and your confidence — in the hands of a specialist dedicated to restoring comfort, function, and beauty.

8Why is it important to replace missing teeth?
Missing teeth can have a significant effect on your personal appearance. When a tooth is lost and a space is created pressure from normal function and your teeth touching together can cause the remaining teeth to shift. This shift can cause otherwise healthy straight teeth to tilt. These tilted teeth can become unstable which makes them more likely to be lost in the future. Missing teeth will make it more difficult to eat and place more stress on the remaining teeth. The teeth also support facial tissue such as your lips and cheeks. When missing teeth are not replaced and gaps are left open, the tissue can “cave in” adding years to the person’s appearance.
9After being treated by a Prosthodontist, how often should I return for follow up check-ups?
This depends on the type of procedure and treatment you receive. If you have dental implant-related procedures done, it is advisable to visit your prosthodontist at least once a year for a follow up. Maintenance and good dental care are required for successful treatment outcomes.
10Do I need to bring along any x-rays or scans for my consultation?
X-rays and 3D scans are a necessity at the consultation stage as it is a diagnostic tool, and it will also inform your treatment plan. The consultation fee includes an X-ray and hence there is no need to bring along any x-rays as Dr Patel will take his own X-ray.
11How long does dental implant treatment usually take and what is the process?
Times relating to dental implant treatment vary as they are patient & recovery dependent. On average, once a dental implant is placed, it usually takes 9 months to heal. Once the dental implant is assessed (via 3D scan) & its securely seated in the bone, then only can the dental implant crown (prosthetic tooth) be done.
12Can I get a dental crown done at your practice in a single visit?
We do offer a same day visit for dental crowns. This though is dependent on how many dental crowns you require. Usually single or double crowns can be done in a single visit at our practice.
13Is it safe to have dental x-rays done whilst I’m pregnant?

Yes. Dental X-rays are considered safe during pregnancy when the proper precautions are taken. They use very low doses of radiation, and protective measures like a lead apron and thyroid shield are always used to minimize exposure to both mother and baby. The X-ray beam is focused on the area of interest (the teeth), and the radiation is not directed at the developing foetus. Major medical organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG), confirm the safety of dental X-rays during pregnancy.

In fact, the benefits of taking an X-ray often outweigh the risks. X-rays allow your dentist to detect problems that cannot be seen with a regular exam — issues that, if left untreated, could affect both your oral health and your overall wellbeing during pregnancy.

Maintaining good oral health is important not only for the mother but also for the baby’s health, making dental X-rays a safe and valuable tool when clinically needed.

14Can I do teeth whitening if I have sensitive teeth?

Yes, you can, but it’s important to consult your dentist/prosthodontist first. They can check for any underlying issues, like gum disease or tooth decay, that might be causing sensitivity and need treatment before whitening.

This is how they make whitening safe for sensitive teeth.

  • Customised Plans: Your dentist can adjust the strength of whitening products or use a slower, gradual approach.
  • Protecting Your Gums: Custom-fitted trays help prevent the whitening gel from irritating your gums.
  • Reducing Sensitivity: Special desensitising agents or toothpaste can be used before or during treatment to make the process more comfortable.

Professional guidance ensures your smile gets brighter safely and comfortably.

15How safe are home teeth whitening kits?

There are many home whitening kits offered online & in store but not all of them are safe to use. Always check with your general dentist or prosthodontist before purchasing these kits. If you choose to do teeth whitening on your own, it is always better to get your DIY dental whitening kit from a dental practice.

In office vs DIY whitening kits

Teeth whitening done at a dental practice usually takes about 90 minute. The Dr then provides the patient with a maintenance kit which they can use at home after the procedure is completed. The benefits of having teeth whitening done at a dental or prosthodontic practice is that you do not have to do anything on your own. There is no risk of over-whitening or using excess product which can come in contact with your gums & cause irritation and damage. Plus, you get immediate results.

DIY whitening kits from a dental practice provides the patient with trays and bleaching material. The Dr will provide the patient with a solution that is unique to the patient to get the desired result. The patient is then required to apply the product every day for two weeks to get aesthetically pleasing results. The results are not immediate and the patient has to do everything themselves.

16 In office VS DIY teeth whitening kits

Teeth whitening done at a dental practice usually takes about 90 minute. The Dr then provides the patient with a maintenance kit which they can use at home after the procedure is completed. The benefits of having teeth whitening done at a dental or prosthodontic practice is that you do not have to do anything on your own. There is no risk of over-whitening or using excess product which can come in contact with your gums & cause irritation and damage. Plus, you get immediate results.

DIY whitening kits from a dental practice provides the patient with trays and bleaching material. The Dr will provide the patient with a solution that is unique to the patient to get the desired result. The patient is then required to apply the product every day for two weeks to get aesthetically pleasing results. The results are not immediate and the patient has to do everything themselves.

17Are there any risks or complications when using home teeth whitening kits?
The outside surface of your teeth can get discoloured or stained through foods, beverages and smoking. If this is the case, then you may benefit from whitening toothpastes. However, if your tooth is discoloured from the inside as a result of medication, childhood illness, infection, tooth trauma or aging then you may benefit from professional tooth whitening procedures.
18I grind my teeth a lot in my sleep. What are the dangers of this and is there any treatment?

Nightly teeth grinding, also called bruxism, can lead to serious dental and jaw problems if left untreated. It can wear down tooth enamel, cause chips or cracks, and even lead to tooth loss. Grinding can also contribute to gum recession, make teeth more prone to disease, and cause jaw, face, or ear pain. In some cases, it may affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or be linked to sleep issues like sleep apnoea.

How We Can Help

  • Custom Night Guards: Specially made mouthguards protect teeth from grinding while you sleep.
  • Comprehensive Care: We can evaluate medications, sleep habits, or underlying conditions that may be contributing to bruxism.

With the right treatment, you can protect your teeth, reduce discomfort, and prevent long-term damage — keeping your smile healthy and your jaw pain-free.

19I have bleeding gums when I brush my teeth. Should I be concerned?

Yes, bleeding gums are not normal and should not be ignored. Often, they are an early sign of gum disease (gingivitis) caused by plaque buildup. Other possible causes include brushing too hard, changes in your oral hygiene routine, certain medications, or underlying health issues like vitamin deficiencies.

Why should I seek treatment as soon as possible?

  • Catch Gum Problems Early: Bleeding can be one of the first signs of gum disease. If untreated, it can progress to more serious issues, including tooth loss.
  • Accurate Diagnosis: We can determine the exact cause — whether it’s a technique issue or something more complex.
  • Personalized Treatment: Depending on the cause, treatment may include professional cleanings, changes to your home care routine, or further investigation to address underlying health conditions.

Seeing treatment early will help protect your gums and keep your smile healthy.

Your smile deserves expert care — and with a prosthodontist, you’re in safe hands.