Post-procedure pain and sensitivity
CommonWhat: Especially after fillings near the nerve and after extractions. Resolves within days-to-weeks.
How risk is reduced: Pain relief as advised; follow-up if persisting beyond 2 weeks.
NZ-specific risk guide
Risks of general dental treatment in New Zealand
Covers fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions and other general dental procedures performed by registered NZ dentists.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-27 · how we source risk data
Who is qualified to perform this in NZ
All NZ dentists must be registered with the Dental Council of NZ. For specialist procedures (endodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, oral surgery) look for DCNZ specialist scope registration.
Risks
Risks are categorised by frequency reported in NZ + Australasian surgical college guidance. None of this is a substitute for an individual clinical assessment by a registered practitioner.
Bruising after extraction
CommonWhat: Especially with wisdom-tooth removal.
How risk is reduced: Cold packs in first 24 hours; rest.
Dry socket post-extraction
UncommonWhat: Painful complication 2-5 days post-extraction. Treatable.
How risk is reduced: Don't smoke for 72 hours; avoid spitting/rinsing strongly in first 24 hours.
Root canal failure
UncommonWhat: Some root canals need retreatment or extraction. Endodontist-performed cases have higher long-term success.
How risk is reduced: Use a DCNZ-registered endodontist for complex cases.
Crown / restoration failure
UncommonWhat: Crowns can debond or fracture. Most clinics offer a warranty period.
How risk is reduced: Confirm warranty in writing pre-procedure.
Nerve damage from extraction (especially wisdom teeth)
RareWhat: Lower-jaw wisdom tooth extraction can damage the inferior alveolar nerve.
How risk is reduced: Pre-op imaging; oral surgeon for high-risk cases.
Allergic reaction to materials or local anaesthetic
Very rareWhat: Disclose all known allergies pre-op.
How risk is reduced: Provide full medical history.
Pre-procedure checklist
- Confirm the dentist is DCNZ-registered.
- Get a written treatment plan with itemised costs.
- Ask about alternatives (e.g. filling vs crown, extraction vs root canal).
- For specialist work, confirm specialist scope on the DCNZ register.
Red flags — stop and get a second opinion if you see these
- High-pressure upsell at the appointment for extensive work.
- No written quote.
- No clear referral pathway when a specialist would be appropriate.
Call your clinic if you notice
- · Pain that worsens after day 3
- · Persistent bleeding from extraction site after 24 hours
- · Fever >38°C
- · Numbness in lip/chin or tongue that doesn't resolve in 24 hours post-extraction
When to call 111 / go to ED
Spreading facial swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing — go to ED.
Sources we reference
This page draws on NZ + Australasian surgical college guidance and NZ regulator publications. Full list:
- Dental Council NZ https://www.dcnz.org.nz/
- NZ Dental Association https://www.nzda.org.nz/
Next steps
This page is general guidance about the kinds of risks documented for general dental treatment in New Zealand and Australia. It is not a substitute for an in-person clinical assessment. Risk profiles depend on the specific procedure, your individual health, the surgeon\'s experience and the facility. Always discuss your specific situation with a registered practitioner before consenting to any procedure.
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