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SarahVictoria1988: Hi, I am desperately seeking some advice! I am not a fan of visits to the dentist but had some toothache so eventually bit the bullet (ba-dum-tish) and made an appointment with a dentist based on a recommendation by my mum. I went for the intial consultation, had an x-ray and a poke around, and was booked in for the following week for a filling. When I went back for the filling it was gone closing time by the time I actually went through. He gave me a mirror so I could see what was happening, that I tried not to use because I didn’t want to know what was going on! He told me the filling was quite deep, and tried to show me the nerve (no thank you!), and it was really close to the next tooth so some discomfort and sensitivity should be expected for a few days. He filled it in and was out of the room, leaving me with the nurse, before I could even sit up. When the injection wore off that night I felt awful, like I’d been punched in the face, but felt a little better the next day. Just over a week later I still couldn’t expose the tooth to hot or cold, or chew on that side of my mouth. The pain was constant but not debilitating, but enough to need pain killers once or twice a day. So I called the dentist and they saw me that afternoon. Another x Ray later and she tells me the tooth should come out!! This was totally unexpected and quite a shock. She did say I could try a root canal but “these don’t always work” and can “cost up to £750”! This was a different dentist than the first one I saw as he was off, but she came across as very defensive of him and kept telling me he hadn’t done anything wrong, even though I’d never suggested he had. Sorry for droning on, finally to the point - what do I do? The tooth is close to the front on the bottom I really don’t want to lose it. I’m in ALOT more pain than I was before I went to the dentist so now I am wondering, has something gone wrong and they don’t want to own up to it? Or is this normal and I’m just being an idiot? Is root canal a better option than extraction? Or is it a costly endeavour that could lead to extraction anyway? Or should I be getting a second opinion? And should the filling of been put straight onto a nerve in the first place?! Thank you! honestdoc: Saving the teeth with root canals and crowns can be expensive. You alternative is to extract the tooth. Some teeth especially the Upper first molars tend to fail with root canals due to its complex anatomy. It is best to talk with the same dentist who you feel most comfortable with and go over your options. Many dentists will refer complex root canals to specialists but the costs may be astronomically high.

Severe pain post filling, advice please?!

Drehim: I have been struggling with gingivitis for a few years now. I try to go the dentist every 3 months for cleanings to stay on top of it but it doesn't always happen. I went about a week ago for a cleaning and a few days later I have noticed that I am experiencing a burning/tingling sensation in gums/tongue. I usually don't pay too close attention to what my gums look like and I want to know what healthy gums look like. Is this a picture of healthy gums? Is the white towards the bottom where the roots of your teeth would be normal? honestdoc: According to the image, the gums may have some isolated inflammation and redness. The white areas are normal for they cover normal bony projections. A more accurate image is to take Bitewing x-rays to capture the internal bone levels. With periodontitis, the bone gets irreversibly damaged and recede. As long as bone level is solid, get a thorough dental cleaning and keep up the recommended homecare and dental visit intervals. If there are bone damage and bone loss, you will need to have deep cleaning, more frequent maintenance and followups, and possible gum surgery,

Gingivitis

itroo: Hello, My mother went to see the dental hygienist for the first time in a very long time, not going due to severe anxiety and poor teeth health. My mother said when she did the flossing the hygienist did not use a little brush or normal soft floss or arch but used what she described as a firm piece of plastic to floss. Does anyone have any idea what this firm piece of plastic to floss was or method, as my mother was ok with this rather than normal floss which she fears she will damage her gums more. I've searched online but not knowing more details I am unable to figure out what this was and hopefully someone may have an idea so I can help my mothers anxiety re dentistry/oral health care. thanks for your time AJK64: It could be interdental picks. I have started using them myself after my dentist introduced me to them earlier this year. I didn't want to break any rules by posting to where you can buy them, but they are very easy to find here in the UK...most supermarkets stock them now.

Flossing question, what type of floss did they use?

monicaregister: i had a dental sealant placed on a bottom molar that never had cavities in the first place. i love to eat many sweet things like cooked bananas with natural honey in the morning for breakfast. i wait at least one hour or more before drinking water. after that i would drink soy milk which would be fairly sweet because i added sugar. after that i would wait at least another hour before drinking more water. i didnt use listerine anticavity mouthrinse but assuming i had even with this kind of eating habits, would it have prevented the cavity that formed adjacent to the dental sealant? i brush only twice a day, morning and night. would it have prevented the cavity like it claims to do so or not? can a dentist please tell me. thank you. AJK64: Why do you wait an hour before drinking water after eating sweet food? monicaregister: AJK64 said: Why do you wait an hour before drinking water after eating sweet food? Click to expand... because i have gastritis. thats why. Busybee: It's impossible to tell what caused your cavity. But you can always rinse your mouth with water instead of drinking it. Maybe use a straw with sweet drinks or avoid them. If you have gastritis it's also possible that you may have had acid coming up into the mouth at some point. That sort of thing can really damage enamel. If you have thrown up because of gastritis that's pretty bad for teeth too as it will include some acid. Is the gastritis chronic and were you tested for H pylori? Are you sufficiently hydrated before you eat? Saliva is really important to preventing cavities and maybe your mouth is too dry if you have to wait to drink.

cavities

John Roberts: I have posted on here quite a few times since 11/18/16. I have been having trouble with all my teeth hurting. I guess the top and lower front the worst though. I have been to countless dentist, several general practitioner doctors, ent, oral surgeon, and a few more I can't think of. None of the dentist had any idea what was wrong or if they did they didn't say. One of the dentist did want to do tens type therapy and a 6,500 orthic type device but didn't really say what was wrong. The rest of them gave me no clue. I finally went to a neurologist. He said it was in my nerves and diagnosed me with trigeminal neuralgia. I don't necessarily think I have the symptoms some people have but I am sure it is some type of neuralgia. He is having a MRI on my head and spine. I have been having a lot of neck, teeth, eyes and some facial pain but my teeth bother me the most. He has me on a anticonvultant type medicine. He said the dentist couldn't do me any good. I am just glad I didn't start having root canals, fillings replaced and such. He basically said I am subconsciously changed my bite because the pain in my teeth moves around and it does. I would just say that if anyone is having trouble with all their teeth and the dentist can tell you anything you may want to see a neurologist. All my trouble started after a cleaning and fluoride treatment at the dentist. MattKW: Sometimes it's the other way around. Patients have gone to GPs, hospitals, neurologists, and it turns out to be dental. I hope you are finally getting better. Busybee: The trigeminal nerve does feed into most areas of the jaw, sinus and TM joint and eye socket so if you have a problem with it you can be sure to feel pain in similar areas to dental pain. Even if they work out what's causing it doesn't mean it's easy to treat. But they can at least help you with pain management. John Roberts: Matt. If it is or was dental you would think one of the dentist I have been to would be able to figure it out. I think I have been to one of every kind and none of them told me anything. The last one said he couldn't see anything wrong on the xrays. He said it could be some type of nerve problem which the way I feel I agree. I don't know. Busybee. I know it isn't easy to treat and I think I had a problem with it in my eye and forehead a few years ago. One of the doctors then said I had some type of neuralgia and tried to treat it with no luck on the medicine he tired. I got off all medicine and it eventually got better on its own. I have heard there is no cure for it. I know they have gamma knife surgery but I am hoping they can control the pain with medication. I know I am trying to doctor myself but I think it may be in my neck where the trigemianl nerve starts because I am having trouble top and bottom. Just a guess. Maybe the MRI will tell something. I do feel better hopefully knowing what it is instead of the doctors saying they don't know. Very frustrating. I will post along. Thanks for the comments. Busybee: John, I've had problems with my neck and shoulder and I suspect that it's down to that area for me too. But what I have found is that when my bite was really off the neck and shoulder hurt too and my posture felt off too. I'm sure it's curable but with so many variables it's impossible to pinpoint what exactly causes the pain. One thing leads to another and then your body compensates and somehow ends up pressing on the nerve. I know you are going to look at neuro forums but please do let us know how you get on with the neurologist. MattKW: John Roberts said: Matt. If it is or was dental you would think one of the dentist I have been to would be able to figure it out. I think I have been to one of every kind and none of them told me anything. The last one said he couldn't see anything wrong on the xrays. He said it could be some type of nerve problem which the way I feel I agree. .... Very frustrating. I will post along. Thanks for the comments. Click to expand... Unfortunately, the longer that you have the cause of any pain undiagnosed, the more it will start to refer to other places, and the worse you become. Dentally, I had a patient 3 weeks ago where he'd been seen by another dentist, then had the run-around including neuropathic drugs and heads scans at the hospital before I found a cracked tooth which had never been filled; very, very rare. Even then, I wanted to be absolutely sure before I extracted, so gave him a long-lasting LA, then he returned in relief, so I took out the nerve as an emergency measure, and when that continued the relief, I took out the tooth. You have to be very careful to avoid aggressive treatment as this will often cause pain of its own, and "muddy the waters" for subsequent investigations. Sometimes a nerve block can help isolate the cause to a general area. John Roberts: Thanks Busybee and Matt. I am going for the MRI n the 28th. I will post on the results. I agree totally about being diagnosed and I have been trying. The dentist tell me they can't see anything. If they did miss a cracked tooth would it make most all of my teeth top and bottom hurt. I have a jaw tooth that only had a partial root canal done it and at one time it was bothering me the most but it was contacting the top tooth. I did not have the root canal done and it bothers me no more than the rest of my teeth, maybe less. For now I am going with the Neuralgia diagnosis. Busybee. I have definately had more trouble with my neck than usual and I know my posture isn't good. Head to far forward and I know it pulls on my neck. Hope the mri shows something.

Diagnosed with trigeminal nerulgia

jdocop: Is there, or was there ever, any condition that might arise, or have arisen from the natural crowns being too small? I was told by Army Dentists, way back in 1968, that the natural crowns of many of my teeth were too small. Therefore, over a four month period, I submitted to having thirteen teeth drilled to increase the size of the crowns, and then fillings. Does this make any sense? The only documentation they put into my military records was "Car" with each visit during the time that the fillings were done. MattKW: No idea, sorry.

Small Natural Crowns?

MajinSea: In the state of Washington, dental hygienists can administer Novocaine injections. One came in and injected Novocaine. A while later, I needed more and a totally different person cam in and injected more. Is this legal? Who keeps tract of the amounts? I am becoming very concerned about the lack of oversight because I am sensitive to these anesthetics. My ultimate feeling is find a dentist who administers his/her own anesthetic? Busybee: Hygienists also have to qualify before they work on patients and I'm sure they have been trained to administer Novocaine if that's the protocol in your state. But if you don't feel safe with a particular dental practice then you should go elsewhere. At the end of the day if you don't want it then you should not give consent. MattKW: MajinSea said: In the state of Washington, dental hygienists can administer Novocaine injections. One came in and injected Novocaine. A while later, I needed more and a totally different person cam in and injected more. Is this legal? Who keeps tract of the amounts? I am becoming very concerned about the lack of oversight because I am sensitive to these anesthetics. My ultimate feeling is find a dentist who administers his/her own anesthetic? Click to expand... They should be keeping track in their records. That said, it would take a lot of LA to overdose. In the US LA cartridges contain 1.8mL, so the Maximum Recommended Dose (MRD) would be about 13 cartridges. The MRD is half the toxic dose, but there are records of people having even more.

2 Hygentists inject novocaine to same patient, is this legal?

Creeseh: Hello I will try to be short and to the point. Dentist did a root canal (2004) on left upper #16. It stayed infected with pain for a year using off and on antibiotics. I had fistula the last 4 months even with taking two antibiotics. I then get an apico from a surgeon. He reopened it two times in two years because infection would come and go. Finally he opted to pull the #16 and all was ok for a year. I did have pain still there though up in the gum area. After a year it started all over with swelling and pain. Then it would leave and come back months later. I felt nauseated alot with face and ear pain. Same surgeon decided to go back in again. He said the bone was mushy and soft. Debrided and scraped infection out and stitched me back up along gum line. I had to go back several times throughout the years with recurring issues. Currently he says there is nothing he can do since he cant see anything on cone beam scans. I have seen ENT, family MD, neurologist and list goes on. I had #15 pulled because of pain there when they said it needed root canal. Currently upper gum #16 swells up then goes down. When it decides to swell like the picture I am adding I get nausea and sick. Joints hurt a over like I have the flu or something.. They see this and scratch their heads. I need help!!!!! In pain and going numb sometimes. Any suggestions!!!??? Please! Busybee: Perhaps you should see an implant specialist or periodontist. MattKW: Go to another surgeon. Any surgeon that attempts an apico on a #16 is very strange. Where are you in the world? Creeseh: Hello MattKW, I live in Nashville, Tennessee. I checked the numbering on the teeth to be sure and identified it is #15 & 16 area. My GP is setting me up with a Surgeon at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. My Neurologist is on board also after assuring me the swelling is not a nerve condition. I had a sledding accident in 08 which caused me to get fused at c3 and c4 but this condition had already begun. At the most irritated hours my gum will extend longer than my teeth with a white area at the tip. As in the photo, it sometimes takes the form of a cone and is very painful. Thank you! Creeseh: Thanks Busybee! I will take that into consideration.

Apico Pain then extraction pain since 2004

Help: Hello my boyfriend has very soft teeth that are weak and rotting he probably needs about 5 teeth pulled the pain is getting so severe we both dont sleep I take him to the er when things get really bad but the guy there tried to give him a dental block and totally just numbed the roof of his mouth ans sprayed the liquid in the suringe around his mouth when he left I noticed my boyfriend's mouth was way more swalloen then before and the pain he said wasmt improving they pushed us out the er and gave us some ibuprofen when we told him he had been on probably 3000 mg today and its not helping. The block didnt help his insurance isn't covering it at all the oral surgeon he needs I'm stuck I have no help no one helps me my boyfriends infection is immune to antibiotics and I need help help Busybee: Surely there is a dental charity where you are who will pull his teeth and give him some antibiotics for the infection? Are you in the US?

Need help asap

vbarrigar: My two year old grandson has a gap in his front teeth from his frenum, which I know is common. My daughter had it as well. But my grandson also has the same type of connective frenum on each side of his upper teeth, between his canine and first molar. Is this common? He has his first pediatric dental appointment scheduled for a bit later this summer, but I wondered if we should be concerned. honestdoc: I believe it is normal. Check his bite. There should be a slight overbite across all his upper teeth against the lower. This is designed so that as one bites, the top teeth moves the cheek and lips out of the way and the lower teeth moves the tongue away. This also creates natural alignment. As long as there are enough room, the top teeth will be aligned by the cheek and lips while the tongue pushes the lower teeth to proper position.

toddler frenum

Fazzio349: I went to get a cavity filled about 3 months ago. It was pretty deep, almost to the nerve. It was extremely sensitive for awhile. For the most part, the sensitivity has gone away but when I bite down on something hard like let's say a pretzel, it really hurts. It even hurts when I floss in between the tooth. I never felt any pain or sensitivity until the cavity was filled. I went back to the dentist who then grinded it down a little bit too fix the bite. It did absolutely nothing. She mentioned it could be awhile before everything feels normal but this doesn't feel right. Do I just need to wait it out or is something else wrong here? honestdoc: You mentioned the cavity was close to the nerve. That means the nerve is traumatized after the filling. The nerve will either get better or not. How you will know is if the pain is getting worse. That means the nerve is damaged. Another way to know how the tooth is doing is the cold sensitivity. Healthy nerve will feel cold and the sensation will go away. Damaged nerve will make it unbearable and can wake you up at night. A dying nerve will not feel cold and many times will not feel pain. You may feel better and have no pain. However, you may have swelling and that means the dying or dead nerve became infected. I would monitor the pain and if it gets worse or too intense, go back to the dentist and discuss a possible root canal treatment. MattKW: Three months is more than long enough. If you have X-rays available, pls post up here. Some options to consider: A very deep filling and the nerve is not going to recover. It happens, even if you weren't in pain before the filling. Consider an RCT. The tooth has been filled with a composite, and the bond is not secure. Leakage can occur, allowing bacteria to infiltrate. Consider having the filling redone, either in composite, or preferably in amalgam (doesn't leak). Talk to the dentist.

Still in pain 3 months after filling

Ken: I have search the article for the enamel regrow/regeneration. I found that there are some reseacher develops enamel regrow. Is it work and provide this service in the future? https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/usc-dental-school-develops-gel-prototype-regrows-enamel-sheryl-nelson MattKW: Not possible in real life, and probably never will be, given the way that teeth develop. Ken: But I found there lots of method to regrow the teeth. Becky: Ken said: But I found there lots of method to regrow the teeth. Click to expand... Do you have any sources? Ken: Becky said: Do you have any sources? Click to expand... Here are my findings of the teeth regrow/enamel regenerate. Of course, it is still developing. https://edgylabs.com/no-more-fake-teeth-dentists-regrow-teeth-labs https://epatientfinder.com/human-trials-regrowing-teeth-expected-start-2019/ http://www.iflscience.com/health-and-medicine/scientists-use-lasers-regrow-teeth-stem-cells/ http://pop.inquirer.net/2017/10/tideglusib-alzheimers-drug-can-regrow-teeth/ https://www.thetalkingdemocrat.com/2018/04/researchers-have-found-a-way-to-regrow-tooth-enamel/ MattKW: The first 4 references are only talking about regrowing the 2nd layer of teeth, the dentine. The last reference is about rebuilding the more important layer of enamel, but even there they are only talking about enamel that has been slightly softened. Neither of these approaches is anywhere near building up the complexity of a tooth. I have read about some experiments where they grow enamel and dentine together from stem cells, but it tends to be blobs, and nothing that remotely resembles real teeth. They're light years away yet with growing teeth. They'll have better success with soft tissue organs like liver, pancreas, heart, etc. than teeth. Ken: MattKW said: The first 4 references are only talking about regrowing the 2nd layer of teeth, the dentine. The last reference is about rebuilding the more important layer of enamel, but even there they are only talking about enamel that has been slightly softened. Neither of these approaches is anywhere near building up the complexity of a tooth. I have read about some experiments where they grow enamel and dentine together from stem cells, but it tends to be blobs, and nothing that remotely resembles real teeth. They're light years away yet with growing teeth. They'll have better success with soft tissue organs like liver, pancreas, heart, etc. than teeth. Click to expand... Then I would like to ask the 2nd layer of teeth can be regrowed? I think most of people don't like to use veneer, filling, crowns...etc instead of regrowing teeth. MattKW: No, you just simply regrow any useful part of teeth based on these studies, except in a laboratory. honestdoc: As Dr. MattKW mentioned, you cannot regrow any useful part of teeth. Researchers are developing teeth buds from the embryonic cells of the bladder in rats but have yet to advance to predictable and practical applications. Restorative wise, there are a new generation of bioactive materials such as Activa that are very promising. Previous generation materials are biocompatible. Bioactive materials are such that it thrives in the body and cells such as cementum can regrow over it as oppose to biocompatible which means the body just tolerates it.

Is the enamel regrow possible?

aqz: Hi, Im just a little concerned about my inner lip and worried about slightly white areas do these look something i should be concerned about? Thanks Busybee: It looks just like mine. But I would love you to go to see a hygienist for a scale and polish. MattKW: Not a clear photo. looks fine to me. aqz: @Busybee so it looks fine? I know i need to go have a clean Busybee: Well mine is fine and yours looks similar. But if you go for a clean I am sure they can reassure you. honestdoc: Most likely they are minor mucous glands. According to various texts, there are 800-1000 of those located all over the mouth. honestdoc: The reason you need a cleaning is that you have calcified plaque accumulation (tarter) which needs to be ultrasonically or hand scaled clean. If neglected, you can have gum disease and permanent bone damage around those teeth.

Inner lip concern

AntEdwards: Can anyone help me in narrowing down what this could be while I try to find an oral surgeon that can take my insurance. Many thanks! Starts a small dot and spreads out. MattKW: Any pain? Does it blister? How long do they last (days)? AntEdwards: MattKW said: Any pain? Does it blister? How long do they last (days)? Click to expand... No pain and the borders are raised but not fluid filled. Each lesion after spreading out the mucous lining repairs in 3-5 days. AntEdwards: I had a biopsy done yesterday and should have some results in 2 weeks but weirdly they went away with the area swelled up. There’s still similarly looking ones on the underside of my tongue Raj Kumar Bhushan: AntEdwards said: View attachment 1663View attachment 1664 Can anyone help me in narrowing down what this could be while I try to find an oral surgeon that can take my insurance. Many thanks! Starts a small dot and spreads out. Click to expand... Oral cancer symptons- Red & white patches inside mouth-to-mouth lips, cheek, tongue, palate etc. Non healing patches. Numbness in areas. Persisting soarness. Dramatic weight loss. Radiating pain, once lesion (patches) grows. Lumps will grow. Unexplained bleeding from lumps. Neck, ear pain. Soarness. Difficulty in swallow. Lymph node enlarment. Etc. * But you have not these symptoms. Also chronic use of alcohol, tobacco, smoking causes this or by HPV. So don't worry. An oral cancer red/white patches or lesion never healed by self. This is a case of APTHOUS ULCER or CANKER SOARES causes by infection, vit-B complex deficiency, folic acid deiciency, zinc deficiency, useuof more junk foods, STRESS, use of more acidic food (soda), constipation, faulty nutrition deficient diet, irregular sleep, HPV infection,use of methotrexate, immune deficiency etc. Also get your blood sugar test done. Due to sudden increase in blood sugar (not diabetes- it is a normal thing) it causes ulcer and lesion like this. Which subsides within few days. Meet any physician to know about SYPHILIS. * Suggestion- check your diet. Eat less carbohydrate food. Take more raw food veggie, fruits. Drink 3-4 liter water daily. Take Vit - B complex caps with folic acid & zinc. Use antiseptic gargle (1 spoon in a glass of water)- keep in mouth for 2-3 min/ twice a day. In case of infection, dentist would give you antibiotics. Meet a genuine dentist. Steroid gel will be prescribed to apply in ulcer. Do exercise and try to come out of Stress. Chance is you don't get cancer alert. MattKW: AntEdwards said: I had a biopsy done yesterday and should have some results in 2 weeks but weirdly they went away with the area swelled up. There’s still similarly looking ones on the underside of my tongue Click to expand... I really don't know. The lack of pain means it's not a canker sore (apthous ulcer), as these are always painful, and sores that large would be really terrible. I wonder if you have sort of epithelial defect. I'd be interested to hear what the biopsy results suggest. Good luck. AntEdwards: Still waiting for biopsy results but I ust to add. This is the underside of my tongue if that could help any further. honestdoc: I suspect it may be an autoimmune response. Since you mentioned that it would go away in about 3-5 days. When did it start? Did you use a new toothpaste, mouth rinse, herbal supplements, cinnamon products, medications, food coloring, etc.? It looks like a canker sore like Dr. MattKW mentioned but it is very painful. A medication that would help is a corticosteroid in dental paste like Triamcinolone which will mildly suppress the immune system around the lesion. Under the tongue looks normal. That condition is called migratory glossitis or geographic tongue. If it is a tumor or cancer, the lesion would not go away in 3-5 days.

Recurring white circular spreading lesion

Mjcuetis: I have an upper right broken wisdom tooth. When it first broke there was no pain at all and I'm not sure when it actually broke I just found it by running my tongue over my teeth. Its been over a month now and all of a sudden I have a lot of pain in that whole upper side of my mouth. Since being an adult (40 yrs old) I have never had dental work besides cleanings. My question is can I have the tooth pulled by a regular dentist? I don't have insurance and can not afford to go to a surgeon. I'm also already very anxious to have it done. honestdoc: Usually the upper wisdom teeth are less traumatic to remove compared to the lower ones. That is because the bone around it is less dense/bulky. Factors that can make it more difficult is if lower tooth is contacting it which can harden the bone, and if the tooth has a divergent root anatomy. Factors that can make it more risky is if you have any medical conditions such as severe heart disease, very high blood pressure, taking blood thinning medications, and close proximity to sinus. Most likely you are not but if someone were to take bisphosphonate injections, severe bone damage can occur after teeth extraction.

Broken Wisdom Tooth

Johnnyrocket: Are these white parts teeth or is it my gums forming? I think the blood clot is dissolving Johnnyrocket: See honestdoc: It is hard to see to make an accurate diagnosis/assessment. Are you having a lot of pain and or swelling? You may need possible followup to make sure all the tooth and root fragments were removed. Smoking and uncontrolled diabetes may slow the healing as well as other medical conditions.

Blood clot

pearly whites: Hi, I would like to know the difference between young adult gums and older adult gums, NO BS! what are the facts about this? are they different when your a young adult and change when they get older even if you kept your gums very healthy? OR once your a full grown adult in 20s then do your gums stay the same for the rest of your life as long as you keep them healthy? when I was a young adult in my early twenties I swear my upper gums and my lower jaw gums were thicker and more fuller or at least felt that way. My dentist said my gums are normal and are supposed to look like that so I am not that concerned anymore about that gum issue I had posted in the forums previously. honestdoc: In general, when you are young, you have better blood circulation vital to gum healing and health. As you get older, you may develop medical conditions such as diabetes which will negatively affect your gums. Also, people have a tendency to brush too hard and damage the gums and teeth. Your lifestyle and mental tendencies may cause you to grind your teeth which could traumatize your gums. With neglect or infrequent dental visits, one can accumulate tarter build up which can hurt the gums. Due to genetics, medical conditions, lifestyle, and home care can affect gums as you age.

difference between young adult gums and older adult gums? NO BS!

merinl: I had an infection in my gums of front teeth and after taking antibiotics it disappeared.again after three weeks infection came..dentist recommended root canal..i want to ask whether root canal is the only solution for this honestdoc: 2 possibilities...most likely you will need a root canal. Did you have large cavity or filling on that tooth? Did you have a history of trauma or fall? Did you have a history of braces? The other may be gum disease. A dentist will need to see an x-ray of the tooth to determine the root canal anatomy, bone level, and sound tooth structure. Depending on the predictability of success, a dentist will tell you options such as root canal, root canal and crown or tooth extraction. A rare possibility is viral like herpes which does not respond to antibiotics or canker sore which is the body's autoimmune response. Other more rare possibilities are lesions resulting from medications, tumors or cysts.

root canal necessary or not

Boobie: My new dentist recommended that I have 4 dental implants inserted plus extensive other work. He asked me also if I grind my teeth. I think he was remarking on this because of the wear and tear he saw on my teeth. I have been asked the same question many years ago when I was in my early 30's. I am now 58 years old. I have read that teeth grinders are not good candidates for implants. Any one have any thoughts. (I may have posted this already. I am new to the site and am still figuring it out.) MattKW: There's a lot to consider, and you haven't given me much info to work with. An OPG X-ray would be a good start. At 58, some wear and tear is to be expected, but whether it is of concern or not depends on how many teeth you have remaining, and how bad is the damage. If you partner doesn't complain of you grinding your teeth at night, then you're prob not a grinder. For true grinders, most crowns (including implant-supported crowns) can be at risk of fracturing. The best crowns for grinders are probably a gold alloy. Implants do not work the same as real teeth. Real teeth have a periodontal ligament - when you squeeze hard, you can feel your teeth will "give" a little. Implants have no "give", and the crowns are constructed to touch only at maximum pressure (if mixed with real teeth).

Implants

Steven-uk: Hi Everyone, Thanks for accepting me onto the forum. I went to my dentist today (UK) as I had a pain in one of my bottom back teeth that I knew already had a deep filling (grew up in the 70's..), The dentist said the nerve has probably died, and took an Xray to confirm. She stated that one side of the nerve was hardly visible, and that on one half (same half) of the tooth there is an absess under the tooth (the side where the nerve is hardly visible), she shown me this on the Xray and there was a shadow under one part of the tooth, which she said was the absess. Dentist said she would drill into the filling and remove that section of the nerve, which she attempted. When she finished she said she could only remove one section of nerve out of the three that are there (she said she could not find/see the rest of the nerves), and that I would have to see a specialist to get to rest of the nerve removed at a cost of around £700 - with a 70% success rate of the nerves being found and removed. Then she said, if successful, a root canal would then be needed, and then a crown - or the alternative is have the tooth extracted, which obviously I would like to avoid. Does all this sound about right to you educated folks? Dentist said that most people just have the tooth removed because of financial reasons. I can afford the payment (luckily), but I just wanted to make sure this sounds reasonable, and the treatment sounds about right? I cannot understand why she does not do a root canal immediately and remove the whole lot? Thank you in advance. MattKW: Sounds OK. The endodontic specialist will give you a more detailed assessment of risks, but a good endo has success rates 90%+. It is nearly always important to crown these teeth afterwards, as they are quite weak. the endodontist will confirm this too. If it's a last molar, i prefer gold crowns so as to preserve as much natural tooth as possible. 2nd last molars can be crowned in something more aesthetic if you wish - discuss this with your dentist. Steven-uk: Thank you, Matt, that helps a lot.

Tooth Nerve - Root Canal Question, £700 cost? Help Please?

Athethos: So recently I stumbled upon the Oral B Pro 2000 and Philips Sonicare Easy Clean and I've been wondering, which one should I choose? Anybody here used one of these? KVMCruces: Athethos said: So recently I stumbled upon the Oral B Pro 2000 and Philips Sonicare Easy Clean and I've been wondering, which one should I choose? Anybody here used one of these? Click to expand... I've used Oral B's toothbrush and it wasn't bad, I did however feel like it wasn't getting between my teeth so I traded it for a Rotadent ProCare brush. Either one should work fine for you though. You wont really know which one you like better or works best for you until you try it. Busybee: I prefer Sonicare. Athethos: Thanks for the feedback, I think I'm leaning more towards Sonicare, never used a sonic toothbrush before (they're quite pricey, if you want a decent one), but I guess this one's a pretty solid choice to start with. Arthur Fitzherbert: I myself have got the vitality precision clean electric toothbrush, for the price i'd say it was well worth it Busybee: You don't have to buy the most expensive model as some have unnecessary features. I tried others but my teeth and gums are healthier with sonicare. You do need to replace them every two or three years. The motor on all electric brushes starts to be less effective after a while. lomo12: Is it better to use a toothbrush with soft bristles or hard bristles? I prefer the harder kind because I feel like it does a better job of cleaning but always wondered if it's bad for your gums or not. Busybee: The electric brushes don't tend to have hard bristles because even with the softer ones your can over brush your teeth. For manual brushes I go for medium. You don't need to scrub to do a good job and scrubbing can damage enamel. Uptown101: Hello Athethos, In order to select tootbrush here are the Tips, 1. Any toothbrush you choose should have soft bristles because Hard bristles may cause your gum tissue to pull back from teeth which can expose the tooth root and lead to increased sensitivity to heat, cold or certain foods and drinks. 2. Select a toothbrush head size that can easily fit into your mouth and can brush one to two teeth at a time (the general size is 1" long and ½" wide). 3.Powered toothbrushes don’t clean teeth any better than regular toothbrushes. However, if a powered toothbrush motivates you to clean your teeth more often and for the required length of time, it is worth the investment. 4.Powered toothbrushes are better choices than manual toothbrushes for anyone who needs assistance brushing teeth, including people with arthritis (or any condition that may limit mobility), anyone wearing braces or people with misaligned or uneven teeth surfaces that make a thorough cleaning more challenging. 5.Replace your toothbrush as soon as the bristles begin to look worn or frayed (usually every three months). A worn toothbrush does not do a good job of cleaning your teeth. Remember always to replace your toothbrush after an illness. If you’re still undecided about which toothbrush to use, consult your dentist for advice. MattKW: Sonic toothbrushes aren't as good as rotary brushes in a technical sense. However, if it makes you brush your teeth regularly, then there's probably no difference; it's all about thoroughly brushing 2x daily. The Rotadent are great - my wife has used them for 20 years, but unfortunately i have to import from USA. The more expensive electric toothbrushes prob aren't worth the extra cost over standard models. Busybee: MattKW said: Sonic toothbrushes aren't as good as rotary brushes in a technical sense. However, if it makes you brush your teeth regularly, then there's probably no difference; it's all about thoroughly brushing 2x daily. The Rotadent are great - my wife has used them for 20 years, but unfortunately i have to import from USA. The more expensive electric toothbrushes prob aren't worth the extra cost over standard models. Click to expand... I find sonicare is great for the gums and also for getting to hard to reach areas such as the outside of wisdom teeth, but they don't work as well at getting rid of all plaque between teeth. The rotary are limited because of shape and action. The one I had was great at getting rid of plaque, but not so great on gum margins. Sometimes I think a good brush with a decent old fashioned toothbrush is helpful as a backup.

Which toothbrush to choose?

wallacethundercloud: Can my teeth be straightened. I am contemplating pulling out the bottom one that sticks out and the crooked one on top beside my big tooth Busybee: I am not a dentist but if you pull those out your front teeth will be asymmetrical. This could affect both your smile and your face shape as it would mean moving the canines on one side to a position they are not naturally in. MattKW: A wrong idea, and you wouldn't find a dentist to do it for you. Unless you use braces, your teeth would tilt over, and you'd end up looking terrible. Sorry.

Need help

CrescentTooth: I took out my lower right Wisdom tooth and just wanted to know if I should take out the top one right above it? Is it a necessity? Has anyone just taken out one Wisdom tooth but not the other and do you have any issues with it? MattKW: It's not an absolute necessity if it is doing no harm. However, it is now a redundant tooth that doesn't have anything to chew against, and is just going to be a pain to keep clean. Most people have serious problems with lower wisdoms, and after a sometimes unpleasant extraction, get scared off the top wisdoms. Really, top wisdoms can be so easy to extract it's almost embarrassing for me. CrescentTooth: MattKW said: It's not an absolute necessity if it is doing no harm. However, it is now a redundant tooth that doesn't have anything to chew against, and is just going to be a pain to keep clean. Most people have serious problems with lower wisdoms, and after a sometimes unpleasant extraction, get scared off the top wisdoms. Really, top wisdoms can be so easy to extract it's almost embarrassing for me. Click to expand... Thanks for your reply doctor. The top Wisdoms may are easier to take out but which is more dangerous? The top are near your sinuses. I read a lot of complaints about the sinuses getting affected also with their removal. Does the bottom Wisdom tooth have any issues? MattKW: CrescentTooth said: Thanks for your reply doctor. The top Wisdoms may are easier to take out but which is more dangerous? The top are near your sinuses. I read a lot of complaints about the sinuses getting affected also with their removal. Does the bottom Wisdom tooth have any issues? Click to expand... In rare cases the extraction of upper wisdoms may cause fracture of the surrounding bone (tuberosity), and exposure of the sinus lining. But to tear through the sinus lining into the sinus is extremely unlucky. Lower wisdoms have the problem of being surrounded by more thicker bone, and they are often at odd angle, so surgical bone removal may be required.

Take Out Top And Bottom Wisdom Tooth?

WorriedIncisor: i had a toothache for about ten minutes yesterday but now it has gone, not ache whatsoever now, do you think there may be a problem with my teeth or would the toothache have lasted for longer than 10 minutes if there was a problem? Busybee: What were you doing just before it started to ache? Had you bitten into anything sweet or anything hard? When was the last time you went for a check up? WorriedIncisor: I was actually asleep, I didn’t eat anything hard, I have been to the dentist recently, thanks for your reply Busybee: It might be worth getting a nightguard because you may be grinding in your sleep. You can damage your teeth when you sleep without realising.

Toothache

JFranco: Hello guys. I am posting this over a problem that I've recently discovered, 2 of my front and bottom teeth have become translucent. I'm not sure if they've always been like this but i've only just noticed. I'm 20 and I live in the UK but i'm on holiday in Florida for 5 weeks. I recently purchased some new tooth whitening mouth wash which I thought was amazing, you could see the results after using it, it was brilliant. After looking online I found this may be the cause of why they've gone so clear. I may also add my tooth paste is whitening too! (although it feels like it makes no difference) I have now stopped using the mouth wash until I can get a definitive answer Are my teeth damaged for life? is there anything I can do to help them. I've looked online but have got mixed opinions on the problem Thanks all, greatly appreciated CrescentTooth: Wow. This is an old thread. You still deserve an answer though. Some of my teeth also look translucent. The tooth whitening can be an issue if it's extra caustic but what I've discovered is that it was caused by acid reflux in my case. Sometimes you don't even know you have it. Go to your General Practitioner and find out if you have Acid Reflux. I've seen some dentists have a remineralization program for the teeth but I'm not sure how well it works and it's probably very expensive. The only way surefire way is to get veneers, that's what I'm about to do

Front top and bottom teeth becoming transparent

Juilkca: Hey guys, Im new here. Yesterday, while eating dinner. I bit down really hard on a fork while eating pasta. My fork was on its side when I bit down and although there is no chip, I believe I bit down so that it "lodged" between my two center bottom teeth. I thought it was knocked back so i panicked and I tried (idiotically) to push it forward. I couldn't. The teeth did move somewhat forward so there is some looseness. Later I realized that that little bit of forward movement of the affected teeth didn't allow for the normal overbite and realized that the teeth probably was not knocked back. But it's a bit loose now, sensitive and painful if I chew on it, and there is a sensation that it was dislodged a little bit out. I went to the dentist here in DR, but they are closed because of a national holiday. Do you think it would be too late if I went to see the doctor tomorrow? The major thing I'm concerned is that I will lose my teeth. Busybee: The most important thing is that the teeth are still in the jaw. it should be ok to see the doc tomorrow. Juilkca: Busybee said: The most important thing is that the teeth are still in the jaw. it should be ok to see the doc tomorrow. Click to expand... Thank you for your reply. It gives me some assurance! Busybee: Teeth have been known to even survive being knocked out and put back into the socket. Good luck at the dentist and let us know how it goes.

Bit down on a fork really hard

LaurenMill: I am feeling hot & cold in my teeth, is there any decay in my tooth or any thing else, please suggest..... MattKW: A myriad of possible reasons, too many to give here. Go to dentist and get X-rays and an examination. LaurenMill: MattKW said: A myriad of possible reasons, too many to give here. Go to dentist and get X-rays and an examination. Click to expand... Thanks.....

Feeling hot & cold in my teeth, can you please help me for this..

Devasish: Please look at my throat, is this okay

Redness in throat please help

starlight999: I have a dead tooth at the front (root canal years ago) that had gone brown so last November I forked out nearly £500 to have a crown put on it to improve its appearance. For a week or two the crown looked great but it soon started to turn grey, which even the dentist who did the work admits. She is young and despite doing all the implants and crowns at my surgery, says she "doesn't know why" and "it's never happened before". The dentist offered to replace it back then (November/December 2016) but warned that it may weaken the tooth further, which weighed heavily on me. It doesn't look totally horrendous - better than the brown tooth it replaced but given what I paid it is not satisfactory and looks as if it has a grey tinge which is slightly darker than my natural teeth. Now I need a bridge replaced (also at the front of my mouth) but don't want this dentist to do it. I don't want to pay at least £1k only for the same to happen again. So I want to know if anyone can recommend a good, experienced dentist who would do a good job and who would know what's gone wrong with my crown? I'm in south east London but don't mind travelling within the London area for someone good. Thanks! Lily: wow I am so sorry. I would love to hear the answer too. Did you find someone? Please let me know if you do and good luck to you. Raj Kumar Bhushan: starlight999 said: I have a dead tooth at the front (root canal years ago) that had gone brown so last November I forked out nearly £500 to have a crown put on it to improve its appearance. For a week or two the crown looked great but it soon started to turn grey, which even the dentist who did the work admits. She is young and despite doing all the implants and crowns at my surgery, says she "doesn't know why" and "it's never happened before". The dentist offered to replace it back then (November/December 2016) but warned that it may weaken the tooth further, which weighed heavily on me. It doesn't look totally horrendous - better than the brown tooth it replaced but given what I paid it is not satisfactory and looks as if it has a grey tinge which is slightly darker than my natural teeth. Now I need a bridge replaced (also at the front of my mouth) but don't want this dentist to do it. I don't want to pay at least £1k only for the same to happen again. So I want to know if anyone can recommend a good, experienced dentist who would do a good job and who would know what's gone wrong with my crown? I'm in south east London but don't mind travelling within the London area for someone good. Thanks! Click to expand... I wonder. If this is ceramic crown, it cantc be discoloured at any cost unless purposely done, even while drinking soda, alcohol, strong tea, chocolates etc. Anyway crown may comes in Resin category too. Types- metallic, resin, ceramic, metal ceramic. Resin crown may loose texture and colour. It can be discoloured with time by rigorous use of strong tea/coffee, chocolates use, alcohol strong, hard brushing, more conscious about that crown to keep it clean and hard brush, not maintain oral hygiene, lots of soda drink use, pulp tissue damage/reinfection of treated tooth (RCT) etc. Hence RCT fail may be a cause too. 1. If crown is darken due to resin made or low quality ceramic used (thin layer) then it can be replaced. No need of RCT. 2. If dentist insist on re RCT, it means that was a failure. Though you don't feel starting symptoms. I suggest, change dentist (where do you live? I may search for another Endodontist/ experienced dentist). * This time take ' Dental Insurance' policy. Ask your agent. Busybee: As the post was almost 9 months ago, hopefully Starlight has resolved the problem. Raj Kumar Bhushan: Busybee said: As the post was almost 9 months ago, hopefully Starlight has resolved the problem. Click to expand... Hopefully. But this may be useful for them who wants to know this case. Busybee: Perhaps it would if it answered the actual question asked. But in general digging up old threads is considered bad form on forums.

My expensive crown turned grey: my dentist "doesn't know why"

Chrisnellies: My question is on symptoms arising from a root canal first stage on a top molar. I needed to get a root canal done on my top molar due to irreversible pulpitis about 2 weeks ago.This was giving me serious discomfort with biting pressures, extreme pain to hot cold etc.. once the first stage of the root canal (remove pulp and nerves) was complete, a temp filling was placed and all feeling/pain/discomfort was gone.. great... and i am to return to get them filled next week. A few days ago i got a sharp pain while chewing on something followed by a twinge/pain everytime i tried to eat something and i felt like my tounge could go in a hole that was in my tooth.. turns out i managed to crack/chip the temp filling a little which was giving the pain. The tooth was re cleaned, canals checked and a temp filling was redone to last me a week until my stage 2 appointment, however now i feel a light discomfort to hot/cold drinks mostly.. how can this be if i have no nerves in my tooth to identify that? What could the issue be so as i can discuss every possibility at my next app. MattKW: Yes, the symptoms of hot/cold suggest there may be another tooth with problems. Maybe you've developed a small crack. Your dentist will prob do sensitivity tests, look at adjacent heavily filled teeth, etc . Chrisnellies: Thanks for the reply.. the dentist did do various checks that day.. tapping the top row with a metal instrument, prodding, etc of the tooth in question as his worry was the tooth had split. He did say it was still a good tooth and that didnt seem to be the issue. I dont think a small crack is the issue because once i hurt my tooth.. it was 48 hours before i got the tooth checked and in that time i didnt experience hot/cold sensitivity.. its only been there after he replaced the chipped temp filling... like its just magically appeared. I Dont understand how it just all of a sudden appears. MattKW: Wait and see. Raj Kumar Bhushan: Chrisnellies said: My question is on symptoms arising from a root canal first stage on a top molar. I needed to get a root canal done on my top molar due to irreversible pulpitis about 2 weeks ago.This was giving me serious discomfort with biting pressures, extreme pain to hot cold etc.. once the first stage of the root canal (remove pulp and nerves) was complete, a temp filling was placed and all feeling/pain/discomfort was gone.. great... and i am to return to get them filled next week. A few days ago i got a sharp pain while chewing on something followed by a twinge/pain everytime i tried to eat something and i felt like my tounge could go in a hole that was in my tooth.. turns out i managed to crack/chip the temp filling a little which was giving the pain. The tooth was re cleaned, canals checked and a temp filling was redone to last me a week until my stage 2 appointment, however now i feel a light discomfort to hot/cold drinks mostly.. how can this be if i have no nerves in my tooth to identify that? What could the issue be so as i can discuss every possibility at my next app. Click to expand... Can you show me post RCT x-rays? Tooth is non vital and pulp tissue is removed, fine. But adjacent area and jaw line is active. Physical pressure or and fracture may cause problem. Perhaps Root Apex perforation is done during canal preparation. So I need to check. Canal preparation and filling (inert material) is important part of RCT. * If the same tooth is causing problem then flap surgery and Apicoectomy (reverse RCT) will be done. RootandFive: Just curious, should the root canal filling material be able to be seen through the apex of the root? I have an extracted tooth where that's the case and I'm curious if that would be considered an over fill.

Post root canal first stage.

John Steele: I'm searching for a new dentist to treat my Invisalign, and my current dentist said that he would transfer the case. will the new dentist charge me?

Invisalign transfer

aqz: I have cut my gum area few days ago and it did bleed however i have noticed it looks a lil purple is this normal? Thanks Uptown101: Hello, Normally, we can injure our gums just like any other part of your body. Example are Falling on your face, eating something with sharp edges, and even brushing or flossing your teeth too hard can bruise your gums. Bruises on the gums are usually dark red or purple, but they can also be dark brown or black. You may also have some minor bleeding and pain in addition to the bruise. Bruises usually heal on their own without medical treatment.

Bruised gum?

Bobby354: So one day I just had really sensitive teeth (for the record I did have sensitive teeth before but not to such a extent) The pain was so bad that I couldn't drink cold - Room temp water and eating on that side oh god... My dentist said that I should use sensitive tooth paste but it that fails then I have to get a root canal Is that any other dentists that could shine a second opinion for me? Thanks Bobby` Busybee: I'm not a dentist but heavy contacts and grinding can cause sensitivity and it would be a pity to do a root canal if that's a cause. Are you often clenching the jaw? How long have you had the intense pain? MattKW: If you've had sensitive teeth for some time, I find the most likely cause is too many acidic drinks: soft drinks, fruit juices. If that describes you, then you have to cut those back if you want to let the sensitive toothpaste work effectively. If it's just one tooth, then could be decay, a failed filling, an abrasion defect, a crack, etc. Do you have X-rays to show me?

Seriously sensitive teeth

jkb2108: So to make a long story short, I haven't gone to the dentist in about 7 years, due to my fear of all the injections I have to get to become numb, and I finally went about 2 weeks ago. Had 4 small gum line cavities (molars 19, 29, 30, 31- I hope those are the right numbers!) my dentist said they went a tiny bit under the gum during the fillings. Honestly most of my appointment was spent getting my teeth actually numb, once he was drilling he was only on each individual tooth for less than a minute-about a minute. I expected to be sore considering I got them all filled on the same day, could still feel part of the procedure, and the amount of injections I had to have in my lower jaw. All of this work was done a little over a week ago, haven't had any sensitivity to heat and very minimal sensitivity to cold (I've had composite fillings before and the cold feels pretty normal for my teeth). I've had a couple bite pressure zings on 2 of my teeth, but that stopped after day 3 or 4. My main concern is that three nights ago I woke up early in the morning to throbbing pain, I couldn't pin point a tooth, but it was coming from my right side. I stood up, and within 45 seconds the entire pain was gone, and I experienced the same throbbing last night, but again not a specific tooth. I also have a soreness on my right side (where I had 3 fillings) and it tends to feel aggravated when I eat anything hard. But again to clarify, it's not painful, just almost feels like I flossed my gums too hard or how your teeth feel right after you get braces. Are my teeth just trying to recover from being drilled, or do I have a more serious problem here? I definitely don't have a bite problem, due to the fact my fillings are on my gum line, and it would be pretty noticeable, and I've had a high bite on previous fillings so I know what it feels like. I almost feel like I'm almost making my teeth feel worse then they are, like I could possibly be clenching my jaw in my sleep and making myself believe there is truly a problem. I've been reading a lot about reversible and irreversible pulpitis, does it sound like I have the symptoms of either? I'm waiting until the end of the week to go back to my dentist, so any suggestions on what might be going on would be greatly appreciated! movemen: If the pain goes away after you stood up then most likely its not dental related. Sounds like sinus to me. DR. Stephen: If it's not a high bite, then mostly would be a sinus related. Dr. Stephen Designer Smiles Dentistry (www.DesignerSmilesDentistryTX.com) MikelHorizon: If I were you consult a physician for a better answer of your health condition. Raj Kumar Bhushan: jkb2108 said: So to make a long story short, I haven't gone to the dentist in about 7 years, due to my fear of all the injections I have to get to become numb, and I finally went about 2 weeks ago. Had 4 small gum line cavities (molars 19, 29, 30, 31- I hope those are the right numbers!) my dentist said they went a tiny bit under the gum during the fillings. Honestly most of my appointment was spent getting my teeth actually numb, once he was drilling he was only on each individual tooth for less than a minute-about a minute. I expected to be sore considering I got them all filled on the same day, could still feel part of the procedure, and the amount of injections I had to have in my lower jaw. All of this work was done a little over a week ago, haven't had any sensitivity to heat and very minimal sensitivity to cold (I've had composite fillings before and the cold feels pretty normal for my teeth). I've had a couple bite pressure zings on 2 of my teeth, but that stopped after day 3 or 4. My main concern is that three nights ago I woke up early in the morning to throbbing pain, I couldn't pin point a tooth, but it was coming from my right side. I stood up, and within 45 seconds the entire pain was gone, and I experienced the same throbbing last night, but again not a specific tooth. I also have a soreness on my right side (where I had 3 fillings) and it tends to feel aggravated when I eat anything hard. But again to clarify, it's not painful, just almost feels like I flossed my gums too hard or how your teeth feel right after you get braces. Are my teeth just trying to recover from being drilled, or do I have a more serious problem here? I definitely don't have a bite problem, due to the fact my fillings are on my gum line, and it would be pretty noticeable, and I've had a high bite on previous fillings so I know what it feels like. I almost feel like I'm almost making my teeth feel worse then they are, like I could possibly be clenching my jaw in my sleep and making myself believe there is truly a problem. I've been reading a lot about reversible and irreversible pulpitis, does it sound like I have the symptoms of either? I'm waiting until the end of the week to go back to my dentist, so any suggestions on what might be going on would be greatly appreciated! Click to expand... Dude you are suffering from Acute Apical Periodontitis. Your x-rays need to be studied properly. Individual & lateral x-rays need to be checked. If it is then RCT is a choice. If dentist make precise pulp access opening with telescope or dental loupe, then no problem. You may get only post & core with composite restoration. Unless ceramic crown is better. Now your periodontal scaling and obviously ''Root planning" may be required. Don't worry, just check an expert dentist nearby. Pulpitis is inflammation of pulp tissues. This may be the reason. But as you say while applying bite force then pain aggravates. It is AAP. Need to see x-rays, if apical root has any lesion unless pulp infection. Periodontal problem is related in this case. Get x-rays,,, lateral & individual of teeth region. Nothing to do with sinus. MattKW: Oh Lordy, where do some of these people come from? Sinus pain is possibly indicated if pain occurs when standing up, not if pain subsides. Nor will it be a perio problem. We're jumping way out into space with suggestion of AAP and needing X-rays. Given that you haven't been treated for 7 years, and pain occured after several small fillings, then most likely simply the fillings. You can try some sensitivity toothpaste while you wait for dentist appointment. If necessary, perhaps a filling or two may be leaking and require replacement. I'm assuming you've had composite (white) fillings, and the seal on these tends to be poor if they have to go under the gum. Maybe you should ask if they need to be replaced with amalgam. Busybee: Hopefully this problem was resolved over the last four years! Raj Kumar Bhushan: MattKW said: Oh Lordy, where do some of these people come from? Sinus pain is possibly indicated if pain occurs when standing up, not if pain subsides. Nor will it be a perio problem. We're jumping way out into space with suggestion of AAP and needing X-rays. Given that you haven't been treated for 7 years, and pain occured after several small fillings, then most likely simply the fillings. You can try some sensitivity toothpaste while you wait for dentist appointment. If necessary, perhaps a filling or two may be leaking and require replacement. I'm assuming you've had composite (white) fillings, and the seal on these tends to be poor if they have to go under the gum. Maybe you should ask if they need to be replaced with amalgam. Click to expand... Ego is not good in profession. This fellow 's c/c- getting zing on two tooth while biting on opposite jaw. I wonder, how you say about sinus pain and how you relate with it. Can you tell me book name or any journal publication? What is your provisional diagnosis? You cut out option of x-rays, which is very important in dentistry and orthopaedics cases (likewise for others). Is this due to ' sinusitis'? Have this guy mentioned any other significant symptoms for sinusitis. No. (Trigeminal neuralgia pain is also radiating and subsides after sometime. Due to cold wind blowing it aggravates and subside. So we relate?). * Restoration is NOT done properly. Periodontal check up is must. (By the way Sinus opening & treatment comes under 'Periodontics'. Hope you know this!!). What type of dentist you are!! Which tooth no. is 19, 29?? (I made assumption, this fellow is telling about upper R & L quadrant. I excused his saying and focussed on c/c. But you , what is saying )...better DON'T dictate or criticize any one. This is NOT your forum or website. If want, you give your own advice to 'patient only', NOT others. Thanks. Busybee: Raj, you've posted on a thread that is four years old. Why? Raj Kumar Bhushan: Busybee said: Raj, you've posted on a thread that is four years old. Why? Click to expand... I am new in this forum, just joined. So I am replying it for others benefit (if it is). Also I like it. Thanks. MattKW: Busybee said: Raj, you've posted on a thread that is four years old. Why? Click to expand... Ha! I didn't notice the date either.

Issues after composite fillings

Lauraine Waller: I have been prescribed MST and Oramorph as pain relief for spinal stenosis Will I still be able to have dentistry work done that involves numbing the gum. MattKW: Yes, no interactions.

Medication

Arealperson: I've developed a small cavity on the side of a tooth at the gum-line. It's not deep at all, but is already touching on the/a nerve. Question: Can the dentist possibly repair a small cavity if it is accessing the nerve ? Or is a root canal normaly the only option available? Thanks, MattKW: It is probably not directly touching the nerve, or you'd be in serious pain. But if you've exposed the dentine layer of the tooth by decay or over-zealous brushing, then there are tiny tubules that allow your deeply-placed nerve to "sense" pain. Try a desensitising toothpaste, and arrange a check-up.

Small cavity is into the nerve.

AH91: Good morning! This morning I noticed a red spot above my tooth, it appeared over night or possibly through out the morning of my getting ready. It is not painful, just very red and noticeable. I had not eaten anything before I noticed it this morning and I also did get sick this morning as a result of a bad migraine (not sure if its related). please help, should i go to the dentist? give it a few days? or is this something that is normal, should not worry? TIA!! I have attached a picture. Uptown101: Hello, It could be a gum infection or a bruise on the gum due to too much force exerted when brushing. What you should do is go to the dentist for a cleaning, exam and x-rays. AH91: Uptown101 said: Hello, It could be a gum infection or a bruise on the gum due to too much force exerted when brushing. What you should do is go to the dentist for a cleaning, exam and x-rays. Click to expand... Thank you!

Red spot above tooth help! (included pic)

Babs82: Hi Due to an illness I have no enamel left on my bottom front teeth and they look very yellow. What can I use to make them more white as I have an event to go to and am very self conscious about my teeth. Thanks Uptown101: Hello Babs82, To get rid of your yellow teeth, get them properly cleaned by visiting your dental hygienist every six months for a scale and polish unless your dentist recommends otherwise. Getting your yellow teeth scaled can remove any tartar build-up and then polishing the surfaces of your teeth with special instruments. You might be surprised at how much brighter your teeth appear after this.

Yellow teeth

User17: Everything was fine, until yesterday the right part of my bottom teeth started hurting when I drank something cold or ate ice cream, and this is really annoying. Someone knows what can I do for my teeth to stop hurting or what can be the reason it started? Thanks for your help. Busybee: There are all sorts of reasons. Could be that you are grinding, could be erosion from fizzy drinks or from acid attacks, could be under-brushing or over-brushing. If you want to try to mitigate this then don't brush too hard, get a night guard so you don't grind when you sleep, relax your jaw in the day (don't clench), avoid fizzy drinks or acidic food/drinks, floss, use a sensitive toothpaste, go to regular hygiene appointments. Sometimes you just inherit this from parents. If you look after your teeth and avoid triggers for a while it should settle. Maybe your hygienist can show you some brushing techniques. Uptown101: Hello, If eating ice cream and drinking cold drinks make your teeth hurt, you are probably suffering from cold-sensitive teeth. Cold-sensitive teeth are not uncommon, but it’s important to understand the difference between cold-sensitive teeth and tooth decay or gum disease. Cold-sensitive teeth occur when the nerves within the tooth are exposed due to receding gums or worn tooth enamel. To avoid Cold-sensitive teeth try to avoid biting into very cold foods—for example, lick your ice cream instead of biting into it. Also use a toothbrush with soft bristles and soft dental floss. A soft-bristled brush can help reduce the gum irritation that may make teeth sensitive. For your sensitive teeth you can use the Crest Pro-Health Sensitive Shield toothpaste it's designed to reduce the cold sensitivity in teeth by covering up exposed dentinal tubules thereby preventing a cold stimulus from causing the fluid in the tubules to flow.

Teeth sensetive to cold

Mgaul1: Can someone please help me find out what the heck this is behind my upper front tooth? It feels almost like a somewhat sharp (not that sharp) bone/tooth piece, light brown color. No pain in gums or the piece when I mess with it. I’ve tried to pull on it, but didn’t budge. I did have a root canal on this tooth maybe 7 years ago after a large portion of my front tooth was knocked out, but it wasn’t an extraction, so I don’t think it’s a shard? It feel like bone material that’s exposed. I noticed it a few weeks ago when my tongue pressed on it, now it’s driving me insane! It definitely feels foreign, who knows how longs it’s been there though. Any help is truly appreciated as I won’t be able to visit my dentist for a while. Busybee: Have you been to the dentist? That is probably the best place to start. MattKW: Doesn't look like bone. Looks like tooth fragment but how or why I can't tell. Just keep it clean and get to dentist when you can. I doubt if it's going to cause more than mild irritation until then.

What is this behind my tooth??

E Weaver: my son is 4 and his dentist recently noticed a flat, white area above his front tooth. They didn’t see anything in an X-ray and seemed very concerned but then told me to just watch it. Now I’m nervous. Any idea what it is? There is no pain and I have no idea how long it’s been there. Craig D: The photo isn't perfectly clear but most likely this is the adult tooth beginning to become noticeable under the soft tissues. The xray would help. MattKW: No definite idea. It's not his adult tooth forming under the gum. It looks like some of the outer layer of skin may have been lightly damaged and is sloughing off. I'd wait a couple of weeks. Also watch to see if he has any habits like rubbing the area with his fingernail, pencil,...

White area on gums

James Evans: So i had a tooth pulled on the monday on the tuesday had dry socket paste put in and again cleaned and repacked on the friday i still got a terrible throb and a bubble that looks like a blood blister covered in white stuff as shown in pic below

Dry socket helppppp

Devasish: Please look at my tongue, this hurts, can you tell me what is this? MattKW: Looks normal to me. Maybe you could mark the part of the photo that concerns you. Devasish: Hie, Thank you so much for taking out your time and looking into it. As you said I have encircled my concern. Please have a look again.. Busybee: That looks sore. What's your diet & lifestyle like? Devasish: Busybee said: That looks sore. What's your diet & lifestyle like? Click to expand... Is it harmful? I used to smoke 2-3 cigarettes per day but not smoking since 1 week, Mostly I eat veg and I am low on WBC. MattKW: Still looks normal. Hard to be exactly sure from limitations of the photo. Compare it to the other side of your mouth. If still unsure, see a dentist. Devasish: MattKW said: Still looks normal. Hard to be exactly sure from limitations of the photo. Compare it to the other side of your mouth. If still unsure, see a dentist. Click to expand... Thank you sir

Look at this, is this okay

paul cody: Not sure what exactly im asking here or who im asking but here goes maybe someone can point me in the right direction,,it started off with a standard toothache which ive had a few times before in other teeth with no problems,,,tooth filled and say no more about it,,,,anyways this filling was done with a medicated filling on one of my upper left molders just to be sure it didn't need removing,,,so 3 weeks later the filling held up so that was removed and a permanent one put in place,,,, So while i was in the chair we agreed to do a filling on the tooth next which was another molder and also while i was in the chair i had a noticeable cavity on my tooth up the front to the left of my front teeth,,sure why not i was numbed up and they might as well,, But this is the problem my front area has not being the same since i was fine going in and bad coming out,,,it is really hard for me to explain this,,but ill try,,,the tooth that was filled up front felt weak like when i press my teeth together there was no strength in that particular tooth,,if i move my mouth into different positions like if i went to smile it would feel like a lump or something hard in my gums or face,,,if i stroke my tongue across the tooth i get a weird sensation feeling like my gums are raw just for a second,,,, if i floss around the area especially around that front tooth its like something balloons and pressure is applied to the tooth which feels like my front tooth beside the one filled as if it wants to fall out very uncomfortable,,,and very worrying,,im on pins and needles there is a small niggle pain but more so always got to do with pressure,,,it is really getting to me,,, I have gone back to my dentist who has took xrays and has advised me everything looks well,,,now i left this bit out,,,my original dentist was wall to wall busy and because i was in so much pain with my molder that time i didn't see a problem going to another local dentist,,,,so after returning to my original dentist to get everything checked the only thing she can suspect is nerve damage she had prior cleaned up the work of the previous dentist because i don,t think she was to happy with the work,, Anyway so here i am off now to see a specialist,,,,,,now just to mention not sure if any use but over 20 years ago i got rooth can done on my 2 front teeth due to a accident but never had any trouble with them up until my visit,,,,sorry folks but maybe theres a genius out there that can point me in the right direction,,,,

Strange tooth problem

Samantha Green: Hi there! So I’m looking for a clinic where I can get a dental implant. I’ve never done this before, so can you help me find a good clinic? And how can I tell if a clinic is unreliable or fake and must be avoided? Thanks! KVMCruces: Hi Samantha, If I were you I'd look for a periodontist or oral surgeon (both may be fully qualified to do your dental implants) in or near your area. It also depends on your situation and what you need - for example if you have something like extensive gum disease then a periodontist may be the best fit for you. Make sure you research the clinic, not all reviews are accurate (theres always a bad apple or two) but be sure you read through them as well. Also try to find out what you can about the doctors qualifications, results and previous patient cases. And lastly, if you're able to afford the costs always do at least 2 consultations. Best of luck!

How to pick a dental clinic

Jake Grcic: Hello all. So I’ve made an appointment to get my wisdom teeth removed in a little less than a month. I only have my two lower wisdom teeth so those are the ones I’m getting removed. I’m starting to experience awkwardness and some pain when chewing on the left side of my jaw (lower mandible). I’ve recently switched to predominately chewing on my right side now as to avoid this awkwardness / pain. I can only imagine that this is due to my wisdom teeth starting to come in? Should I be seeking to get them removed ASAP due to this happening or am I okay to wait until my physical appointment to get them out? I’m a 22 yo male. Any commentary would be useful. Busybee: Less than a month is hardly any time to wait so unless you are feeling sick with a fever or if you're in agony you may as well keep the appointment you have. Try to just modify your diet to softer foods in the meantime. Speak to your dentist about pain management.

Wisdom Teeth

Newbie91: Hi , I have a painless small lump near my wisdom tooth which is at an angle. What do you make of the picture ? Should I show to a dentist? I’m scared of dentists. MattKW: Looks like your upper wisdom tooth has come through, and maybe you're traumatising the cheek. Get an OPG, have dentist assess all wisdoms, and consider extractions.

A painless lump near my wisdom tooth

Chez: Hi please can anyone help my son is 7 his back baby teeth are like this I'm so worried. I have 3 children who have enamel hypoplasia also. My son s front teeth are also very yellow. Busybee: I'm not an expert on this but have you had your children tested for nutritional absorption issues/amino acid deficiency / pernicious anaemia etc? It's possible that there's something blocking normal processing of vit D and calcium. Can happen with gluten/lactose intolerance among others. Chez: Thank you for replying. I've not had my children tested no as I'm not sure how I go about it but I will look in to that thank you. I had antibiotics in my 4 pregnancies unfortunately though. Busybee: Go to a nutritionist. They can advise you on tests. It should not be too expensive. Worth ruling it out, but it if they do find there is a defect they can remedy it with different approaches while the child is still developing. MattKW: The teeth don't look particularly chipped to me; it is not unusual for baby teeth to wear down a bit over time, but your photo is too indistinct. Hypoplasia in baby teeth is extremely rare, and the Mum would have had to have serious medical issues during pregnancy to affect baby teeth (and not affect rest of child in some way). It is certainly not a nutritional issue, and you would be wasting your money by going to a nutritionist or undergoing unnecessary medical tests; plus causing yourself stress. As for yellow front teeth - baby teeth are always whiter than adult teeth, so he may just be "normal". Have you been to a dentist? Chez: Thank you for your reply. I have seen a dentist but my daughter has a lot of dental issues and I felt the dentist fobbed me off ( absolutely thought he was lovely) and I told the receptionist this at the dentist's as I aaked to see if more could be done I went an appointment as arranged he shouted at me and refused to see myself and my children again ( although I wouldn't go back) but I am trying get in a new dentist Chez: This is my son's teeth yesterday his front tooth on the right has been repaired a boy threw a brick at his tooth. Chez: This is a photo of my sons teeth In January. I will also attach photos of my other childrens teeth. Photos don't show the extent of my daughters teeth unfortunately. So first photo is my sons teeth again - first 2 pictures (trying show the yellowness) the next 2 photos are my daughters teeth. She has fillings in her back teeth. Shes had her front teeth covered in whitener (they were badly orange) and most of her teeth have brown patches off most of her teeth. Last picture; I have 3 daughters One has brown patches on most of her teeth and decay (not proud of this just being honest) My second daughter she has white patches on her teeth like pictured best I can she has pits in her teeth and also her teeth are chipping exactly like my sons in top photo lastly my youngest her 2 front teeth has like a pit/dent in her front tooth and also the bottom of her teeth they both come in like this. I know my children should not have these issues I use fluoride toothpaste I cut the sugar I brush twice a day my eldest 3 have an electric toothbrush I am genuinely at a loss and I know have failed my children. And I am trying to be honest as possible with my childrens issues. With my son I had terrible morning sickness And with all 4 of my children I had antibiotics but I had no other issues in any pregnancies. I am absolutely devastated I just want to sort their dental issues so badly. Thank you Chez: Sorry to post again. I am based in UK and I also asked if my daughter could have her teeth capped (with decay) its just spreading so bad I am genuinely at a loss at where I am going wrong I know it doesn't look like that but I am honestly trying my best. Busybee: I'm not a dentist but your son's adult teeth look pretty healthy and normal. Yellow isn't always a bad thing in adult teeth. Don't blame yourself. Have you asked about having their teeth sealed? I don't think they do this any more as a matter of course on the NHS these days but a dentist can still do it and could avoid cavities in adult teeth. It could be genetic factors but try to avoid acidic "healthy" drinks and acidic fruit too. It's not just sugar than harms enamel. A friend who was a dentist once told me that the worst thing to eat for decay is raisins. Some people think that's a healthy snack. I've read that brushing teeth right after eating isn't good for the enamel either. Apparently the enamel is more soft just after eating, particularly after eating anything than generates an acid attack. Best to rinse with water and wait 20 mins to brush. Avoid carbonated drinks even if they have no sugar. I'm sure you know all this already. MattKW: Chez said: Sorry to post again. I am based in UK and I also asked if my daughter could have her teeth capped (with decay) its just spreading so bad I am genuinely at a loss at where I am going wrong I know it doesn't look like that but I am honestly trying my best. Click to expand... Tooth11: Relatively normal colouration, maybe hint of hypoplasia in top left incisor, but of no concern. If you think the "chips" are the bumps on the teeth, then no, these are called mamelons and are a normal part of tooth growth. Mamelons normally wear down as we get older - you probably don't have them anymore. Tooth55 is same photo. Tooth66 shows some minor decay around margins of front teeth, and a bit more decay around upper left 1st molar. usually no need to treat these as they are unlikely to get worse. Just make sure back molars are in good condition - you need Xrays. The dark upper front left tooth is probably from a bump as a toddler; no need for treatment unless pain or swelling, and it will not have caused damage to underlying adult tooth.Tooth montage ddd really hard to see clearly. In general, damage to front baby teeth is treated conservatively. If you look after them, they will not worsen, and I would not suggest "capping" front teeth just for the appearance.Baby molars must be examined carefully for decay and treated promptly, sometimes with stainless steel caps. Just keep up regular visits to dentist. Chez: My daughter who gas enamel hypoplasia has woke up with her tooth like this Photo does not show how bad it is MattKW: Chez said: My daughter who gas enamel hypoplasia has woke up with her tooth like this Photo does not show how bad it is Click to expand... Chipped baby incisor, most likely from hitting something (not necessarily in last 24 hrs). No need for treatment.

My son's teeth are chipping

chip: My dentist has been aware of it since 2016. Just recently he says now is the time to get a filling. Is it too late to try reverse it based on the pictures? I'm not sure how worse it has gotten since 2016 or how long it has been like this before 2016 (hadn't visited a dentist for a good number of years). It doesn't look that bad to me and would like to avoid a filling if possible. Many thanks Edit: Sorry mods I just realized I posted in the wrong forum! MattKW: The first molar might have decay, but there's nothing quite like a direct look from above (if you can get your phone in there!). An X-ray might confirm/deny it, but is not always 100% sure if it's only a small hole. If it's a hole, then you have to get a filling or it will worsen. chip: Hello MattKW, Thanks for the reply. Apologies, I should have been clearer in my post. It is the second molar on my right side I am concerned about. The biting surface has gone slightly grey. There does appear to be a couple of holes on the first molar I had not noticed before. I will get it checked out. chip: Just checked a tooth map and realised we were talking about the same tooth. Oops MattKW: chip said: Just checked a tooth map and realised we were talking about the same tooth. Oops Click to expand... Thank goodness! I get confused some days too.

is it too late to reverse this decay?

armystrong: I was watching my two year old step daughter last week when she got hurt. I put her in a kitchen chair and set a bowl of Cheerios in front of her. She got mad because she didn't want Cheerios and went to push them away, but pushed on the table instead. She pushed herself back, tipping the chair and hit the back of her head when she landed. She lost one tooth on impact and two more at the dentist. He said it is impossible, but I watched it happen. Can anyone else PLEASE verify that this can happen?!

Is this possible?!

Babygmommy: It's been almost 48 hours since the dentist went back in my mouth to create a new clot one week after extraction. He packed it with foam stuff and now it's coming out.. and my stitches we very loose. I don't want another dry socket and I'm refusing to go back to him due to horrible experiences.. any suggestions.. Help me.. I'm terrified. MattKW: If you don't have the signs/symptoms of dry socket anymore, then it probably doesn't matter.

Help

Toothless In Seattle: About a week ago I began feeling an oddity in my gums right above the second to last tooth that I obsessively, sometimes agressively continoucont rubbed the tip of my tongue over it, back, & fourth repeatedly throughout each day. I then periodically encountered the taste of blood accompanied by pain, & sensitivity. One night, plauged by insomina as a result of my devient tounges new found obsession of agressively rubbing against this unfamiliar abrasion, I decided to uncover a glimpse of this illusive oral infiltrated that appeared a week ago. I decided the best way to achieve this was a full on photoshoot with the primary focus being the area in question. Long story short, or rather short story lengthened with useless attempts at humor, I have attached a couple of those images bearing the identity of the, for me, unkowun culprit that has now taken time away from my very important life as an unemployed Comcast Xfinity condeseour. I do possess decent oral hygienics. Any info helps! Thank you from Seattle. Busybee: Make an appointment with a periodontist.

Holy moly

Jane: Hello, I had buried wisdom tooth removed under general anaesthetic two months ago large cut with seven stitches all has healed but face still swollen and mobile ball shaped swelling at back of mouth which is sore and slowly getting bigger is this normal what is it and is there anything i can do to make it shrink or go would appreciate any help or advice MattKW: Go back to the dentist/surgeon to investigate. You've waited long enough, and there shouldn't be anything there by now. Jane: Thankyou for your reply will go to dentist was just giving it some time to hopefully go on its own and have no idea what it is did not want to waste dentists time if it was normal and nothing to worry about

wisdom tooth removal

Aryn: I've been wanting veneers on my top front 6 teeth for a long time now... I've dealt with repetitive strange decaying issues with all my teeth since birth (not necessarily cavities, I usually don't have any black in/on my teeth, but strange holes keep forming no matter how good my dental care is), and have had multiple appointments to reshape my teeth. Problem is, my upper front teeth on the right (mainly the canine tooth) are constantly hitting my lower teeth (also mainly my canine on the bottom as well, so both canine teeth on the right keep hitting each other), and the bonding resin keeps breaking off. My upper canine teeth are two completely different lengths and it looks ridiculous and it's made me even more self-conscious, because my lower canine on the right is slightly crooked and almost sideways (the only crooked teeth out of all my teeth), it grew in that way, and instead of my upper and lower canine teeth fitting side by side like most people, the tips hit each other. Any lengthening attempts have failed because I can't close my mouth properly once the upper canine is lengthened to match the left one, and like I said, the resin ends up just breaking off because of the constant impact. Would it be possible to get a veneer on that upper canine with this issue? Or do I need to get the lower canine straightened out? How would a dentist straighten one tooth out? I really don't want a full set of braces for a single tooth.\ (I drew a quick sketch, lol, to sort of show you what I mean with the right side hitting each other right on the points, and the left side fitting side by side, snug and perfect.) MattKW: A photo of both sides and front on with teeth closed would be better than a sketch.

Veneers With One Crooked Tooth? Canines Keep Impacting Each Other?

Bardhi: Ok so my first mollar i thought that it didint grow because somehow i didnt have it in my jaw after my milk teeth fell. But when i did the x ray so i could se my 8 tooths if they were growing good, i saw that i have a molar but it never went up. So what should i do, should i take it of and with braces and bring my other to replace him(dont take out my8 tooth) or should i take my 8 tooth out and with braces through my gingiva bring my premolar up? MattKW: That's a premolar that hasn't erupted. It won't come up with braces; you're too old now. I'd actually leave it and have it x-rayed regularly to make sure there's no decay developing. If you take it out, it's going to leave a gaping hole in your bone, and possibly then the molars will tip over even more. I'd have the wisdom teeth removed soon. Bardhi: I am 22 years, my local dentist said we can bring the other premolar and mollars to fill up the gap. Genraly do i a have f up teath do i need braces ? Also i have and over bite of 3mm! MattKW: Bardhi said: I am 22 years, my local dentist said we can bring the other premolar and mollars to fill up the gap. Genraly do i a have f up teath do i need braces ? Also i have and over bite of 3mm! Click to expand... Go see an orthodontist. Your chances of sorting this out (including the overbite) to end up with an ideal arrangement of teeth are vanishingly small.

First mollar didnt grow, but its in my jaw..

Luqmaan: When I had my tooth removed, The dentist never stitched it up properly, after two hours the stiches came out, my nose felt blocked, I put my finger on my nose and blew and white saucy stuff came out of my gum, Then went back to the dentsist the following day, the dentist then had to call another more professional dentist to come ad inspect, they never did tell what it was although they seemed shock to see this and all they did was stich it up correctly, I would like to know what that white sauce was and was it a bad sign or what?

White suacy stuff spewing out of gum

Waynelim: I had a crack tooth and the dentist recommended composite filling, somehow or rather she was getting impatient with me because i had a blocked nose and a gag reflex as the nurse did not did a good job with the suction , when drilling water sprayed went to my throat and gagged me as the nurse did not place the suction to my mouth and i had to rinsed my mouth a few times .this is the first time i experience this after previous fillings was not that bad . then she applied some gel to my teeth and it was very salty and i had to rinse my mouth . she was getting impatient . she recommended me amalgam instead of composite claiming that it amalgam as it is more lasting for molars and also faster for her to fill my teeth,I then agreed during the process she put me on the teeth clamp and started putting the amalgam filling , some of the small bits went out of the filling and landed around my gums and tongue was very uncomfortable , and I requested the Dentist to let me rinse she did not allowed it as she said it will soften the filling and she can only allow me to rinse after the teeth clamp is taken off.she could have used the vacuum or suction to remove the debris instead she asking me to swallow my saliva instead the assistant was nowhere in sight . i was getting worried as i cant speak due to the clamp in my mouth and I had a gag reflex and I had to swallow my salive in spite of the tiny metal debris in my mouth and I believed i swallowed tiny bits of the metal filling. Is it the normal that she could not allow me to rinse before the clamp is taken out and is it dangerous to swallow some of this metal mercury fillings? I am disappointed that she did not take any preventive safety measures. After rinsing I told her that and she told me it’s fine and I didn’t swallowed any? Busybee: That sounds like an awful experience. Firstly the dentist should not have been getting impatient with you, secondly you should not have been left with no suction. I'm sure she is right about the moisture but she should put processes in place that keep you safe, comfortable and in control. I'm sure nature will take its course and that it's more dangerous to inhale the dust when amalgam fillings are being removed than to swallow bits of debris. It's lucky though that you did not breathe them in because that could cause a serious problem. You should make a complaint. Waynelim: Busybee said: That sounds like an awful experience. Firstly the dentist should not have been getting impatient with you, secondly you should not have been left with no suction. I'm sure she is right about the moisture but she should put processes in place that keep you safe, comfortable and in control. I'm sure nature will take its course and that it's more dangerous to inhale the dust when amalgam fillings are being removed than to swallow bits of debris. It's lucky though that you did not breathe them in because that could cause a serious problem. You should make a complaint. Click to expand... Thanks bee for replying. I did breath through my mouth and swallowed some , however it was not a amalgam removal it was a amalgam restoration and placement. First time doing an amalgam Busybee: Hi Way, I realise that. If you ever have it removed make sure they use a dental dam which is a rubber sheet that stops any debris going to your mouth. Anyway I hope the tooth feels ok and that you're not in pain. Waynelim: Busybee said: Hi Way, I realise that. If you ever have it removed make sure they use a dental dam which is a rubber sheet that stops any debris going to your mouth. Anyway I hope the tooth feels ok and that you're not in pain. Click to expand... Hi bee, My purpose of this post is to find out if it is dangerous for me during this restoration process as the fillings drop during carving. I have googled and find out that removal is dangerous but how about my case of restoration. Dentist claim it is not dangerous because no vapor involved even if bits go into my lungs and stomach MattKW: If you swallowed the amalgam (or amalgam dust), it'll come out the other end, no big deal. The only time to worry about swallowed filling material is if the patient doesn't naturally swallow - then you have to check if it's gone down the lungs. Extremely rare. Waynelim: MattKW said: If you swallowed the amalgam (or amalgam dust), it'll come out the other end, no big deal. The only time to worry about swallowed filling material is if the patient doesn't naturally swallow - then you have to check if it's gone down the lungs. Extremely rare. Click to expand... Hi Matt, Thanks for your reply. I had a gag reflex at the point of time when the Dentist was carving the mold on the TOP 3rd molar . Can feel debris dropping on my gums and tongue . I need to swallow the saliva that was accumulating at the back of the throat and waited till she removed the tooth clamp and I rinsed my mouth after will all the filling out in the sink. During the time of the process I was swallowing my saliva to reduced the uncomfortable feeling and breathe through my mouth a few times. When I called the Dentist today the boss of the clinic claimed it is normal while filling up amalgam and the did not use the suction in fear of getting their tubes stuck with amalgam and dental dam might not be essential at this treatment . What preventive measures should Dentist use for this procedure to prevent injesting bits Is that true? .they also claimed not possible to swallow as gums and tongue are wet so it stuck to the gums and tongue . Lol what an answer they provided. Should I go for a mercury test? MattKW: No, amalgam is an inorganic mercury compound that is not absorbed by the body. It's the inorganic compounds (e.g. ethylmercury, methylmercury) most commonly found in fish that cause mercury levels in your body. But you'd have to eat a lot of heavily contaminated fish. And the signs of acute mercury poisoning are not the vague crap you find on Google. Look up Minimata on Wiki if you really want to get scared. Waynelim: MattKW said: No, amalgam is an inorganic mercury compound that is not absorbed by the body. It's the inorganic compounds (e.g. ethylmercury, methylmercury) most commonly found in fish that cause mercury levels in your body. But you'd have to eat a lot of heavily contaminated fish. And the signs of acute mercury poisoning are not the vague crap you find on Google. Look up Minimata on Wiki if you really want to get scared. Click to expand... Thanks again buddy for enlightening. I Guess I can sleep better tonight Waynelim: MattKW said: No, amalgam is an inorganic mercury compound that is not absorbed by the body. It's the inorganic compounds (e.g. ethylmercury, methylmercury) most commonly found in fish that cause mercury levels in your body. But you'd have to eat a lot of heavily contaminated fish. And the signs of acute mercury poisoning are not the vague crap you find on Google. Look up Minimata on Wiki if you really want to get scared. Click to expand... Injesting is not that dangerous, the dust if entered my lungs I will feel Choked however it didn’t . But if enter my lungs as bits not vapor is it still hazardous? Busybee: If it had entered your lungs you'd have been choking at the time. There is no vapour when you are putting in an amalgam filling. The danger is meant to be when you are removing it. So if you ever need to have it replaced make sure they use a dental dam. MattKW: Just to correct: I meant organic mercury compounds are the nasty ones, not the inorganic. A typo.

Worried ! Swallowed some amalgam filling debris while dental restoration

Montana Honeycutt: Can anyone tell me if my gums are ok for the second day after getting 13 teeth pulled Montana Honeycutt: Can anyone help please cause it is really hurting and i dont know if it is suppost too this bad

Gum problems

blowcake: I've been wondering about sugar intake in combination with brushing/rinsing teeth but don't know much about these topics myself, so here my question: For nutritional purposes (I'm a powerlifter) I add about 40g of dextrose to my protein shakes so I can comfortably hit the carbohydrates & calories I need each day. However, I'm a bit concerned about my teeth. Right now my oral hygiene looks like this: In the morning I brush my teeth, then have breakfast and drink a protein/dextrose shake. To my understanding, brushing my teeth before breakfast removes all (or most) bacteria that would otherwise immediately start metabolizing the sugars in my mouth. I rinse my mouth with water after breakfast, but don't brush my teeth again. Throughout the day I try to drink a lot. To my understanding, bacterial growth (and thus tooth decay) is minimal in this during the day, because of the higher flow of saliva - at least compared to the low production of saliva during sleep. In the evening, right after dinner, I drink a second shake. About an hour after that I floss & brush my teeth before I go to bed. What is your opinion on dextrose intake and tooth decay and what would you change in regards to that about my oral hygiene? Thanks in advance! lomo12: Hey I don't know about dextrose specifically (disclaimer: I'm not a dentist) but if you're worried about bacteria causing tooth decay you can try oil pulling with something like coconut oil after your evening shake perhaps. Basically you just swish it in your mouth like mouthwash. There have been studies that shows it helps reduce the amount of cavity causing bacteria in your mouth so maybe look into it. MattKW: OK, it's good you brush after the morning and evening shakes. You have to clear your mouth of the bacteria and sugars (including dextrose) . You don't mention what you specifically drink during the day; keep it to plain water, and stay away from any sugary drinks unless you're prepared to brush after each drink!

Dextrose and Healthy Teeth

Curtis1011: Thanks for taking the time to read my post. Ive had a long few months and honestly dont know what else to do. My dentist told me my upper left back two molars had deep cavities, so I paid a lot of money out of pocket to have the filled. One by one the filling "didnt take" and I was in constant pain. I ended up getting them both extracted. Its been two full months now since I had it done and I still have constant pain there. I have numbness in my cheek and my nose on and off too. The gums hurt almost non stop and are super sensitive. It is definetely not dry socket as both healed up quickly. I switched dentists and she x rayed it and said theres no infection and it shouldnt be hurting. I rinse with salt water all the time and take excellent care of my mouth. I also flush my sinuses often as I get a lot of sinus pressure and always have. Is this just a matter of waiting for a few more months so the gums can heal or what do I do? I cannot put into words how annoying this is to constantly be in pain and have numbness. Any advice is more than appreciated, thank you in advance! Busybee: That must be so distressing. Perhaps you should try stopping the salt water for a few days. The gums do best with just saliva and a healthy diet. How is your bite since the extractions? Are the teeth underneath touching the gums? Some of what you describe can be caused by a dysfunctional bite. Curtis1011: Busybee said: That must be so distressing. Perhaps you should try stopping the salt water for a few days. The gums do best with just saliva and a healthy diet. How is your bite since the extractions? Are the teeth underneath touching the gums? Some of what you describe can be caused by a dysfunctional bite. Click to expand... You might be onto something there because they adjusted my bite before and I had 3-4 days of relief and then it kind of went back...I also notices that I keep getting calcium buildups on my bottom teeth and when that happens my whole mouth hurts, im going tonight for a scaling, first one on 4 plus years so maybe that will help I dont know Busybee: Jaw muscles have a memory of where your bite should be, so if you suddenly have changes it can create all sorts of compensatory muscle contraction. That can cause pain and numbness as well as all sorts of uncomfortable sensations. Think about getting a custom made night guard to wear so you don't grind in your sleep. If you find yourself clenching, try to relax the jaw. i'm just suggesting this because you need to rule it out as the cause. If as you say you had relief from adjustments then it could be down to the sudden change. But having adjustments doesn't really fix it because it's very hit and miss and the teeth start to try to meet in different places that set it all off again. Do you floss every day? If you had such large cavities it may be worth scheduling hygienist appointments every three months. Get a good electric brush. Curtis1011: Busybee said: Jaw muscles have a memory of where your bite should be, so if you suddenly have changes it can create all sorts of compensatory muscle contraction. That can cause pain and numbness as well as all sorts of uncomfortable sensations. Think about getting a custom made night guard to wear so you don't grind in your sleep. If you find yourself clenching, try to relax the jaw. i'm just suggesting this because you need to rule it out as the cause. If as you say you had relief from adjustments then it could be down to the sudden change. But having adjustments doesn't really fix it because it's very hit and miss and the teeth start to try to meet in different places that set it all off again. Do you floss every day? If you had such large cavities it may be worth scheduling hygienist appointments every three months. Get a good electric brush. Click to expand... Thank you for your response. If its possibly due to the sudden changes like you suggest, which is very possible, how long do you think it will take for everything to "settle down" and are there any actions I could take to speed up the healing process? I floss everyday now and I salt water rinse as well as use coconut oil to help promote a healthy mouth, just getting really tired of all the numbess and tingling in my jaw as well as the often burning pain in my cheek. I read online it can take up to 6 months for everything to sort out? Busybee: There's no timescale because it depends on your body and brain. You just have to try different things and see if they help, try to relax the jaw, massage the jaw. The other alternative is that the nerves were damaged when the teeth were pulled but you'd have to put an x ray up for the dentists to comment. Again that usually settles in a few months (but occasionally it's long term). But the fact that your gums are sore and your nose is numb makes it sound more like a bite issue where you can end up in strange sensations all over your face, even your neck, shoulders back, tingling in your hands sometimes. I'm hoping one of the dentists will be along to give you an expert opinion. Curtis1011: Curtis1011 said: Thank you for your response. If its possibly due to the sudden changes like you suggest, which is very possible, how long do you think it will take for everything to "settle down" and are there any actions I could take to speed up the healing process? I floss everyday now and I salt water rinse as well as use coconut oil to help promote a healthy mouth, just getting really tired of all the numbess and tingling in my jaw as well as the often burning pain in my cheek. I read online it can take up to 6 months for everything to sort out? Click to expand... I also would like to note that I definetely grind in my sleep so I bought a mouth gurds Busybee said: There's no timescale because it depends on your body and brain. You just have to try different things and see if they help, try to relax the jaw, massage the jaw. The other alternative is that the nerves were damaged when the teeth were pulled but you'd have to put an x ray up for the dentists to comment. Again that usually settles in a few months (but occasionally it's long term). But the fact that your gums are sore and your nose is numb makes it sound more like a bite issue where you can end up in strange sensations all over your face, even your neck, shoulders back, tingling in your hands sometimes. I'm hoping one of the dentists will be along to give you an expert opinion. Click to expand... Thanks so much for answering. I went in last night for a cleaning and they confirmed no abscessed teeth no cavities that will cause me problems etc. The dentist seems to think its a combination of my sinuses putting pressure on the area that is healing as well as it takes a while to heal. She said can take up to 6 months to settle down. Im kind of worried there might be an infection or something, tough to not worry when this keeps happening, just want the pain to subside so I can stop thinking about it 24/7 Busybee: What you describe doesn't sound normal. I am sure your dentist doesn't know what's happening. Two months after an extraction is a long time to still be healing. Do you have any x rays you could post of what was there before the extraction? How is wearing a night guard working out? Ideally you should have one that is custom made by a dentist. Have you tried relaxing the jaw? It's pretty complicated to resolve such issues but worth trying different approaches and keeping a diary of when you have the most pain and what you were doing just before. That might help identify triggers. Curtis1011: Busybee said: What you describe doesn't sound normal. I am sure your dentist doesn't know what's happening. Two months after an extraction is a long time to still be healing. Do you have any x rays you could post of what was there before the extraction? How is wearing a night guard working out? Ideally you should have one that is custom made by a dentist. Have you tried relaxing the jaw? It's pretty complicated to resolve such issues but worth trying different approaches and keeping a diary of when you have the most pain and what you were doing just before. That might help identify triggers. Click to expand... I feel like I should quickly summarize the entire story so you have all of the pieces. Basically when I was 15-21 I wore braces and got them off, teeth were fine, then I did not take as good of care of them for many years. I never had so much as a toothache until I was 27 last year and randomly I started having almost unbearable pain. I went in to see a dentist and they told me my bottom right second from the back molar was abscessed and the back molar had a big cavity. They root canelled the tooth and fixed the cavity beside it (over 1600 out of pocket) and the pain never went away so 2 months later I got the tooth extracted. The pain STILL never went away so they said that I needed a root canal on the tooth in which I had a cavity filled, which I declined and said just pull it leaving me without the back two molars on the bottom right. Then I started having pain upper left literally the exact same situation with my back two molars (youd think I would learn my lesson) and a couple of thousand dollars later both those teeth are now out. As it stands now Im missing the bottom right back two molars and the top left back two molars, have 3 small and i mean small cavities and no other bad teeth. I decided to switch dentists went in for my new exam and a cleaning this week and they seemed a lot more thorough than the old dentist. She said originally the area should have healed by now but then she kind of changed it and said since I had two extractions it might take a whole longer. When I reach into my mouth and touch the top left gums they are not swollen but they definetely are sensitive to touch. I got those breath right strips to help breath better at night as well as got a mouthguard but nothing seems to help. No matter what I do on and off all day my left cheek and nose and even eyebrow area go numb and will sting really badly at times. Im pretty frustrated I think Ive spent just over 4k out of pocket in 8 months and havent gone any extended period of time without pain. My benefits kick in Nov 1st but I dont know what needs to be done since I dont know whats causing the pain. I could probably get my x rays will see what I can do. Thanks for all of the help I cant tell you how much I appreciate it Busybee: It does sound like the work you've done would knock your bite out of kilter. So it's likely to be a combination of things. Now I haven't had a molar extracted since I was a child, but I do recall for years the site was tickly when touched with the tongue or anything like floss etc. Not painful but then someone else may have had pain where I had ticklyness. Even know those areas although the gaps closed, the gum feels different. I think the nerves retain a memory of the tooth when it's gone, maybe like ghost limbs etc. Obviously you still have nerves and blood vessels going to that area and they used to feed a live tooth so it's likely that there will be some residual sensation. I'm sure there's a term for that feeling. A bit like if you've ever cut yourself in some accident when you were a kid and it was deep enough to go to the nerve. When you feel that scar it can feel weird for years. Not like the skin around it. It's healed but it's not the same. So it's likely to be a combination of this and the bite, but it's possible there is nerve damage. Hopefully it will all settle in time. It's one of those areas of medicine that has many "experts" but no solutions. By the way I had sinus problems years ago and I know those breathe right strips are a life saver. Thankfully my problem was temporary and it only lasted so long because I was overdoing the nasal drops (otrivine). I saw an ENT specialist and he gave me some different nose drops that cleared it all up in two days! But it is really awful to have to go through sinus issues. Getting a good night's sleep is such a challenge. I can't imagine what you're going through with both that and dental pain. Don't worry, this won't last forever. It just feels that way for now, but you're out of balance. Maybe worth seeing an ENT specialist to check whether there is some damage to the sinus area. It's all connected so whoever thought dentistry and ENT should be separated by an invisible wall should be discredited. Curtis1011: Busybee said: It does sound like the work you've done would knock your bite out of kilter. So it's likely to be a combination of things. Now I haven't had a molar extracted since I was a child, but I do recall for years the site was tickly when touched with the tongue or anything like floss etc. Not painful but then someone else may have had pain where I had ticklyness. Even know those areas although the gaps closed, the gum feels different. I think the nerves retain a memory of the tooth when it's gone, maybe like ghost limbs etc. Obviously you still have nerves and blood vessels going to that area and they used to feed a live tooth so it's likely that there will be some residual sensation. I'm sure there's a term for that feeling. A bit like if you've ever cut yourself in some accident when you were a kid and it was deep enough to go to the nerve. When you feel that scar it can feel weird for years. Not like the skin around it. It's healed but it's not the same. So it's likely to be a combination of this and the bite, but it's possible there is nerve damage. Hopefully it will all settle in time. It's one of those areas of medicine that has many "experts" but no solutions. By the way I had sinus problems years ago and I know those breathe right strips are a life saver. Thankfully my problem was temporary and it only lasted so long because I was overdoing the nasal drops (otrivine). I saw an ENT specialist and he gave me some different nose drops that cleared it all up in two days! But it is really awful to have to go through sinus issues. Getting a good night's sleep is such a challenge. I can't imagine what you're going through with both that and dental pain. Don't worry, this won't last forever. It just feels that way for now, but you're out of balance. Maybe worth seeing an ENT specialist to check whether there is some damage to the sinus area. It's all connected so whoever thought dentistry and ENT should be separated by an invisible wall should be discredited. Click to expand... Thanks for the response I appreciate it. After seeing your post I kind of got thinking about the sinuses and I went to a doctor yesterday who said I have a pretty bad sinus infection on the side that has been hurting. He said its normal for that to cause tooth pain. I guess my ear was quite inflammed and I should have known as my nose and eye on that side only had been painful and leaking alot. I still think maybe 20-30 percent of the pain is from the gums healing after the extractions, Im a really slow healer apparently, but the doc put me on a special steroid nose spray and some antibiotics I had never heard of. I also had been using a nasal decongestant that he said to stop using as apparently they can do more harm than good when you over use them. Im hoping within a few days the meds kick in and things just improve. Im back in the dentist to get 2 small cavities filled at the end of the month but Im really hoping by then alot of the pressure subsides. Thanks sooooo much again for the help. It was your advice of seeing an ENT specialist that really got me thinking this might be sinus related. I still think I should see one and not just a GP doctor as I am prone to sinus issues, especially since my dad gets them a lot and I have a deviated septum (broke my nose dirtbiking when I was 15). Thanks so much again, heres to hoping these meds help! Busybee: I'm glad I could help. I do think it's worth seeing an ENT specialist. One visit cured me. What you've said about the nasal spray sounds so familiar. Using that just makes the problem chronic. They should put a warning on the bottles! Please let us know how you get on.

please help

Duncan Birrell: I have strange problem, I have a tooth or wisdom tooth pushing through but 15mm below my last rear bottom tooth . It is so low is rubbing my tongue - which is my my tooth very sore, eating is difficult and my speech is slurred due the pain in my tongue, feels like which you grit or piece pepper under your tongue. I am not sure what is happening or how it can be cured.

Tooth cutting into my Tongue problem

Bella Martinez: I had my wisdom tooth pulled out about 2 wks. ago and was wondering if there should still be a small hole. I don't have any pain but I still have the hole... How long is it gonna take to completely close up or is it gonna stay like that.? MattKW: 2 weeks for initial healing of outer layer of skin, minimum of 3 months for hole to fill up with bone. It might be annoying, but it won't do any harm from here on. You don't have to do anything special - it'll keep healing from here on.

Wisdom tooth

Amarie: I went to the dentist yesterday and had some teeth pulled. After the anestetic wore off i noticed this lump near the injection site does anyone know what it is?

Went to dentist yesterday

Jayjay75: Good afternoon all...i wonder if anyone can help??, I have just been to a dentist (NHS registered) and he has advised me I need 6x teeth extractions, and that he will only remove 2 at a time.(3x Visits) Does that mean I have to pay three lots of band "B" (£59.60 (or does it all come under 1 course of treatment)) Thanks for your help JJ Busybee: You should request a treatment plan Jayjay with a quote for the cost. You should have received one as a matter of course. I believe it should come under one course but it's years since I used NHS dentists.

NHS Charges

waterweaver: I had a root canal on an upper tooth, lateral incisor, ten years ago with no issues until it loosened six months ago due to my own fault of biting something very tough. It fell out two weeks ago. Dentist took xray and said everything looks good, no tooth parts remaining except the upper part of the root. He strongly urges removal of the root and I am reluctant. I do not want any sort of replacement. It seems to be healing on its own so why not just leave it alone? Busybee: Surely it's a magnet for infection. How will you clean it? MattKW: Hard to say without X-ray to look at. Since it already had RCT, can sometimes leave small bits behind and in the absence of bacteria, it will heal over. If needs to be removed, sometimes it can be very difficult to remove from vertical approach, and quite destructive, so if it has to come out, maybe raise a flap and take it out from buccal approach. waterweaver: Matt, What determines if it needs to be removed? My dentist says the xray shows no indication of pieces of tooth. MattKW: waterweaver said: Matt, What determines if it needs to be removed? My dentist says the xray shows no indication of pieces of tooth. Click to expand... In your first post you said the upper part of the "root"was still there. Now there's no indication of pieces of "tooth"? Then what does he want to extract? waterweaver: There are not multiple pieces of broken bone. The xray shows a single, very thin, solid line up in the gum. Since the root canal was ten years ago I am concerned it is weak and could break apart during removal making it more difficult. It seems like just leaving it as is is less risky than getting it removed. And if it gets infected, I get it removed then.

Should root be left in gum?

Fiona: I’ve recently had my two bottom front teeth extracted and am about to get a second impression for the permanent partial dentures. Only the bottom teeth had an impression. I thought the upper teeth would be required to have an impression too. My biggest concern, however, is that I wanted chrome cobalt dentures. Now the dentist is telling me that because my teeth aren’t aligned in a straight row, the chrome cobalt denture can’t be fitted around the teeth exactly. Is this true? I’ll lose space behind my teeth which will inevitably affect my speech. Would I be better off considering acrylic dentures? Thanks. Uptown101: Hello Fiona! If you like to take my advise, I think you should consider second impression from another dentist. But if you have unaligned teeth you should consider using acrylic dentures.

Partial Dentures: procedures??

yasirmuneeb786:

Gums Contracting/removing

CMO: I am just a layperson, but have been reading the dental literature published over the past 100 years - which is certainly voluminous. It has raised a question in my mind. Is there a risk-benefit analysis that needs to take place with respect to dental cleaning? Specifically, my question is related to subgingival calculus and the removal thereof. This has a hardness that is comparable to cementum. When it is removed, some cementum is also invariably removed. If the thin cementum layer is completely removed, this exposes the dentinal tubules, allowing bacteria to enter the tubules more readily. The literature seems to be unclear as to whether this can lead to pulpitis - but this is my concern. Stated succinctly, can the removal of subgingival calculus actually increase the probability of pulpitis and the need for a root canal or tooth loss? I am hoping that the answer is no, but I cannot seem to see this addressed directly. MattKW: Answered succinctly, no. CMO: Hi Matt, Appreciate the reply. Can you provide your reasoning/thought process? Much appreciated.

Technical Question

Mona Lisa: I broke off half of my tooth on the bottom, not a molar. I now have only 6 1\2 teeth on the bottom. I have no dental insurance. Went to a dentist today and he says it needs to be extracted. Said the roots look wound tightly on the bone though so I will need a very good oral surgeon. He said I broke off too much of the tooth. He mentioned me getting an implant, then suggested a lower partial. I cannot eat with a partial upper or lower and the costs are $975 each. In Cambodia I got excellent partials for $40. I cannot imagine what an implant would cost in the states. One implant in Cambodia was $200 total. I thought I had enough tooth left for a root canal and crown. Should I get another opinion? Mona Lisa MattKW: If it's not a molar, then half a tooth will prob be insufficient to crown. Whilst a partial denture in Cambodia prob won't be too harmful, they tend to give shitty implants that fail, and then you lose twice over.

Broken tooth: extract or root canal and crown?

Minh: Hey guys, I have this slight irritation on the inside of my mouth on the side. I was wondering what this thing is because it’s annoying. I’m not sure if it’s from my braces or my stitches from my wisdom teeth. Please help me identify this problem.

Slight irritation in mouth

healthyteeth: Can teeth be protected while eating and drinking anything besides water? For example mouth guards, dentures and invisalign braces all fit on and around your teeth or gums what if something like this could stay on over or around your teeth while eating and drinking totally protecting teeth from cavities and decay. A teeth protector. Imagine being able to eat all the candy you want and not even worry about a cavity. Has this been thought of before? Could such a thing be invented by dentists??? I was really curious and wanted to ask a dentist! Tell me all there is to know about this. Has it been considered? Would it ever work? MattKW: Nah, just drink through a straw up your nose.

Keeping teeth protected while eating...

pearly whites: Hi, if I am not in the right section to ask this question in this forum then please move me to the right section as I am not sure where to post. I had previously made a post here about chlorhexidine, I went to the dentist over 2 months ago and they stopped my periodontist/gingivitis or prevented it from developing as I had a deep cleaning and the dentist said I my teeth and gums were really great or in excellent condition, plus my gums and teeth felt better HOWEVER it never fixed my gum issue that I have been concerned about for a while now and thought seeing the dentist would cure this issue I am having with my gums but the deep cleaning did nothing to fix my gum problem. The top half of my top gums are red/darkred and look swollen or thinner/have thinned out while the bottom half of my top gums are normal or excellent with the color being pink/healthy. I am having the same issue with my bottom jaw gums, the bottom half of my bottom jaw gums are red/darkred and look swollen or thinner/have thinned out while my bottom top half of my jaw gums being normal or in excellent condition/pink healthy. I want to cure this gum problem and have my entire top gums 100% pink/healthy(no red gums or swollen) as well as my entire bottom gums being 100% pink/healthy(no red gums or swollen) plus having all my gums be thicker. I could of sworn many years ago my gums were not like this and were 100% pink and thicker. people or fam have told me that my red swollen gums are do to age and my mom also has this problem. the red gums could be inflammation or a mix of inflammation and age, I really have no clue and I eat very healthy and eat mostly non gmo foods/drinks, brush me teeth twice a day, floss once before bed, I don't drink or smoke at all, no bad drugs, no candy, no fast food, no starches, no cane sugar, no high fructose corn syrup, no pizza or junk food either. WHAT is causing my gum issue? and how do I cure this gum problem all the way and NEVER have this gum issue again? can doing what this man is talking about cure my gum problem?>>> Busybee: If your mother has the same problem it's likely to be inherited. It sounds like you're doing all the right things by going to the dentist for regular cleans and eating healthy. If your dentist is happy with your gums why are you worried? pearly whites: @Busy bee, because of the problem I mentioned above about both my bottom and top gums being half healthy/pink while the other half's of my gums are red/swollen and thinner. The man in the youtube video I posted had the same problem and claimed what he did cured the gum problem I mentioned above so I want to know if I could do what he did if its lagit or have another option to fix my gum problem. my mom has it as well as me however I think its possible the reason why we have that gum problem is not do to inheritance and I base that on the mans video I posted since he was able to cure that problem. I don't care if my dentist is happy with my gums, its not his teeth/gums, its my body and I own it so I can do with it what I want. I do have pictures of this gum problem so I can post them here if you like so you can better understand what I am talking about however its kind of a pain in the but to do that witch is why I did not post them at all. Busybee: My view is that anything that says it's 100% guaranteed on the internet is likely to be a tad suspect. But if your dentist is happy with your gums then that is a good sign. Maybe you could post a photo of your gums for the dentists here? pearly whites: Busybee said: My view is that anything that says it's 100% guaranteed on the internet is likely to be a tad suspect. But if your dentist is happy with your gums then that is a good sign. Maybe you could post a photo of your gums for the dentists here? Click to expand... well I have tried a ebook that I bought online that was 100% guaranteed to work and it did for me so I think there is a possibility this man in the video is not bluffing when he says it worked for him. I know 99% of the stuff out there on the subject or for example: exercise is false or a fraud and because of that the stuff that works is difficult to find and so people will not bother to search for what works as they think its all bs so I can see how you would think its just another scam. Here is pics of the gum problem I was talking about Busybee: By all means wait for the dentists' opinions, but I think this looks like it's the colour of your gums, As in some people have different levels of skin pigmentation. For example I've just checked my own mouth (and I must say I've never bothered to look at this area) and yes it's darker colour at the bottom in my mouth too. Perhaps it's something to do with a higher concentration of blood vessels. I actually find it really hard to see that high up because I really had to pull my lip up. Yes mine are thin too. You are IMO focusing on something that isn't a problem but perfectly normal. But I do hope some of the dentists here reassure you. Busybee: By the way I don't think it's a good idea to go poking about in that area. Best not to touch the inside of your mouth with your fingers and leave it to the dentist to examine. I'm saying this because my mouth feels funny now I've been touching an area I never go near with the tooth brush! It feels like I've hit my funny bone on my elbow.

gum problem,posibly inflamation, what is causing this? and how do i cure this?

pleasehelpme: LANAP treatment Has anyone had it? Eric2005: pleasehelpme said: LANAP treatment Has anyone had it? Click to expand... I want to know too, specifically if LANAP will actually make gums GROW.

Please Help, Have I Been Scammed?

John Anthony: Hi all, newbie here. I'm a 71 year old guy with several broken teeth. I've had a marginally successful small business for 30 years with no dental insurance, so there wasn't much I could do as my old fillings broke apart. I've been semi retired since 2014, on Medicare with HMO Delta Care USA. I recently had Delta send me the Schedule of Benefits for my plan. It's pretty good, actually. I have a few $K to blow on my teeth so I went in for a consultation with a local dentist that accepts my plan. He worked up a 5 phase plan with 9 crowns, two lateral veneers, a removable partial, and a couple resin based comps. His fee totals $29,600, my cost would be $8735. He wants to do porcelain to high noble metal on all the crowns, procedure D2750. His fee for that is $1646, my cost on each is $295, plus $150 "lab fee", plus $150 "zirconia material fee". I put them in quotes because I think these are B.S. fees. Several teeth he has $150 "core buildup including pins fee". The procedure is D2950, which is covered by my plan. Either his assistant made an honest mistake, or they didn't think I would look it up. In total, these 25 charges add up to $3750. Removing those would get me below $5k. Don't know if he will move on that. It turns out that one of my customers has had a dental lab in New Jersey for 44 years. He says he makes crowns, etc for high end dentists in Manhattan. He would like to do me a favor and make emax crowns, the veneers, and a fixed bridge for me for like $3k total. He says all he needs is the full impression after tooth prep. He says ask the dentist if he will settle for what the insurance pays, total of $20,856, and let me pay him out of pocket to make everything for me. He says the dentist won't like it, but he'll be losing close to $21k if I walk. He says if this dentist doesn't go for it, I should be able to find someone in SoCal that will do it. I checked with Delta and they said sounds like a good deal, but he's not in the network, and can't go to a lab out of state. I would appreciate any advice. Thanks very much. Busybee: Perhaps you don't need quite so much work? Is there another dentist you can see that also covers your insurance plan? John Anthony: Busybee said: Perhaps you don't need quite so much work? Is there another dentist you can see that also covers your insurance plan? Click to expand... Busybee: Hi did you mean to reply? John Anthony: Oh no, I need all that work. Several teeth are broken down to the nub, with just one side remaining, plus one of my front teeth is descending due to bone loss and will have to come out. Tooth #15 needs a root canal but I'm putting that off for now, at least until the antibiotics wear off. It's also broken off on three sides. My wife says just get it pulled. The root canal is covered but the endodontist says there will be about $450 in extra charges, so saving that tooth will cost $1150 with the crown. I asked the dentist to pull it but he wanted me to visit the specialist first. I told him I only have $5K to spend and this tooth alone will eat up 20% of that, he looked at me like "so?" How much time does it take the dentist to prep a tooth for a crown? Just trying to figure out how much of his $1646 fee is labor vs what he budgets for the crown. My cost for porcelain to high noble is $295. I know the $150 lab and $150 zirconia material charges are bogus. My friend said he uses 89% gold plus 11% palladium. Or platinum, can't remember which. He said "high noble" metal can mean as little as 10% gold. So the dentist's actual cost can vary a lot. This dentist is 5 minutes away, just around the corner. They did give me a referral to another dentist in the network that may be lower cost, but I want to try bargaining with this one first. I know he's good. Just a crook. Busybee: Preparation time depends on complexity. It's usually about an hour to an hour and a half with the temp. As well as his time, the crown material, lab costs etc, his fee will include a portion of his overheads for rent, equipment, utilities, staff etc. I'm not sure if it's still the case but zirconia used to have to be cut in a special way. But I don't think it makes it more expensive at least not in the UK. I think if you know the dentist is good and so conveniently five minutes away if anything goes wrong, then I'd value that above cost of work. Dentists have close working relations & communication with their technicians so your dentist may not want to use someone else or just rely on them to guess what's required for your particular issues. They will have agreed tariffs and all sorts of arrangements in place with the one they use more often. Don't forget that your customer is out to make money too. If you insist the dentist uses that lab and something goes wrong because of the technician's work, then where would that leave you? You could fall out with both the dentist and your customer. Seems more than a bit risky because the dentist tells the technician what is required and sends it back if it's not good enough. How will you do that with a customer? I'd steer clear of that but obviously up to you. John Anthony: Busybee said: Preparation time depends on complexity. It's usually about an hour to an hour and a half with the temp. As well as his time, the crown material, lab costs etc, his fee will include a portion of his overheads for rent, equipment, utilities, staff etc. I'm not sure if it's still the case but zirconia used to have to be cut in a special way. But I don't think it makes it more expensive at least not in the UK. Click to expand... Thanks for your reply. That's quite a while in the chair, and I understand he needs to get paid for his skill and it must cover his operating expenses. My customer and I were thinking no temp crowns, just prep the teeth. I could live on beans and rice for a week or so while he makes the crowns. He says all he needs is a full mouth impression. And he said, "tell him not to skimp on the material". He said he can't understand why some dentists send him "just barely there" impressions, like the material is precious, when it's just a few dollars. He says the $150 fee for "zirconia material" is nonsense. You have either a porcelain to metal crown, or you have a zirconia crown. You don't add zirconia material to a PFM crown. He says the $150 lab fee is just padding the bill. The technician's fee to make the crown is the fee. The technician doesn't add a separate lab fee. Yes, my guy is not giving it away. He's charging me the same as he would charge a dentist, about $3k for emax, vs porcelain to high noble. I think the dentist is very good but I object to being gouged. If I had the money I wouldn't even look at the bill, but I can't afford what he wants. Busybee: No temp crowns sounds crazy. Your customer doesn't know how a dentist runs a business and you don't know how much he charges the dentist. There's no way to tell whether he's telling you the truth. This is a really unwise course you are thinking of taking. All I can see is risks for you and avoidance of liability by those you would be paying. I don't know what kind of laws you have governing this in the US but either they are not sufficiently robust to protect the patient, or your customer is breaking them. I'd steer clear of the customer. This is unethical. Ask the customer what kind of contract he is proposing to write to cover liability etc. What will he do if the crowns don't fit etc. John Anthony: Busybee said: No temp crowns sounds crazy. Your customer doesn't know how a dentist runs a business and you don't know how much he charges the dentist. There's no way to tell whether he's telling you the truth. This is a really unwise course you are thinking of taking. All I can see is risks for you and avoidance of liability by those you would be paying. I don't know what kind of laws you have governing this in the US but either they are not sufficiently robust to protect the patient, or your customer is breaking them. I'd steer clear of the customer. This is unethical. Ask the customer what kind of contract he is proposing to write to cover liability etc. What will he do if the crowns don't fit etc. Click to expand... During my initial consultation, I told the dentist I was considering getting the work done in Mexico. My Mother lives in Yuma, AZ half the year, and said lots of snow-birds go across the border to get their dental work done in Mexico for one third the cost. He said don't do that, I'll come up with a plan. I told him I didn't have much to spend. A couple of days later his receptionist gave me the proposed plan, of which my end is nearly $9K. My initial thought was, not bad but still double my budget. I looked at my schedule of benefits and saw there were a couple crown types that were no cost to me, so I asked if we could use one of those types instead of porcelain fuzed to high noble metal. He said our lab doesn't do those. Then I remembered that twenty years ago, one of my customers told me he had a dental lab and made crowns. I called him to ask about the different types of crowns. Then I asked if he would look over my paperwork. I emailed him my x rays, photos, the proposed treatment plan, and my schedule of insurance benefits. Right away he asked what are all these lab fees? And what are these charges for zirconia material? You either have PFM or zirconia, but not both. So right away we knew the dentist is padding the bill by $3750. He started brain storming, and said I can do all your work for less than that. Just have the dentist prep your teeth, send me the impressions, and I'll send you the finished crowns. I've never met him, he lives in New Jersey and I've never seen his work. I just know what he's told me. But I know a lot more now about my dentist, and I don't like it. So that's where we are. Just talking about it. I haven't been back to the dentist to go over the charges with him yet. The last time I was there, I asked him to pull #15. He refused, saying I want you to see a specialist. We can save that tooth. It was at that point I told him I have $5K to spend, and saving this tooth would eat up 20% of my budget. And he gave me the wide-eyed "so?" expression, shaking his head. Most root canals are fully covered in my plan, but after consultation, the specialist said there would be $400 in uncovered charges, so I got out of the chair and left. I'll go back to my dentist when the antibiotics wear off and it starts hurting again, and have it pulled. Busybee: John, I have porcelain fused to zirconium crowns. So they definitely make them. Maybe your customer doesn't do them just like your dentist's lab doesn't do other crowns. If you don't trust your dentist go to another dentist, but don't try to make deals directly with a lab to try to cut the price. You will end up regretting it. You have no idea of the quality of his work and it appears you haven't discussed any form of contract. It is always better to save a tooth than pull it. $400 is not a big excess to try to save a tooth. A tooth that is saved by a good specialist and left in situ is priceless. But I'm sure you can find a dentist who will pull it for you. Go back to your dentist and ask if there is any way to reduce the cost without affecting the outcome. Bear in mind though that a good dentist is worth the money.

Itemize cost of crown procedure

ED physician: I am an ED physician and have had several patients come with simple dental abscesses and no other complications. When I try to refer them to their dentist, they have told me that their dentists refuse to see them until the infection is gone. Now I have no problem draining the abscess and prescribing antibiotics, but I am not a dentist. I don’t do teeth extractions. Is there something that I don’t understand? Do dentists no longer drain gingival abscesses? I want to make sure that I am providing that right instructions to my patients. Thank you. Busybee: Perhaps you are cheaper than an endodontist?

Dental abscess treatment

CMO: Greetings all, This is my first post. I will try to be brief with my question. I avoided visiting a dentist for 15-20 years due to an auditory problem. I finally decided to see a dentist last year because of a brief episode of gum pain. He did a full series of x-rays and (to his surprise) found no bone loss. (I brush 2X/day and floss.) In any case, he signed me up for a "prophylactic cleaning" to be done in two appointments (half of mouth each time). I was told this "is not a root planing." Two weeks ago, I went through the first appointment. It want OK, but there was a lot of tartar removal needed (some supragingival and some subgingival). I asked the hygienist to use only manual tools. My question is this; in addition to some extra sensitivity to cold food/beverages, I have noticed that there is sort-of a dull background pain that comes and goes (and moves around) on the side that was cleaned. is this normal? Could this be related to the sensitivity to cold? It is present even when I am doing nothing. Busybee: Well done on finally making it to the dentist. It's normal to have some sensitivity after a clean and if you had a lot of tartar then over the years the gum may have receded a bit & the enamel eroded which can cause sensitivity after cleaning. Use a sensitive toothpaste or they can put some fluoride paste on it at the surgery. It can take a few weeks for sensitivity to go. You may need a small filling somewhere but the dentist will wait and watch the area before diving in as it usually goes away. Just mention it at the next appointment.

New Member - Question on Extended Prophy

Will Geisler: I have a permanent bridge permanent cemented over my lower front teeth. Since the placement, the bridge is uncomfortable, irritating my gums, and causing a lisp. I am having the bridge completely redone next week (by the same doctor) to eliminate some of the bulk from the labial side for the purpose of improving the comfort and fit. In July, I am considering an beginning the process to have an oral implant placed (with the two adjacent teeth crowned) in that area as an alternative to having the bridge. The hope is the implant will be more comfortable, and that I will have an easier time keep the area clean First, a bone graft will be needed (5-6 month recovery), then the implant screw placement (2-3 month recovery, then the tooth placement and two adjacent crowns placement. The oral surgeon is recommending that when I have the bridge replaced I should use temporary cement instead of permanent cement. This is so the oral surgeon can take it off for the bone graft and take it off again for the implant screw. I am concerned that the temporary cement may cause the bridge to fall out during the 8 months or so it will be in use. Your thoughts? Busybee: They can do pretty strong temp cement. It just means they have to wrestle a bit to remove it. If the fit of the bridge is good it should not fall off. If it does fall off then they need to look at the fit. Obviously you have to be more careful if it's temporary cement but you should still be able to eat most things. The alternative is that they do a temp bridge. That can also fall off but they can put on much stronger cement as they won't be worried about drilling it off if necessary to remove it later. MattKW: Since you've already had a bridge done, I don't see there is any advantage by doing an implant. An implant will be harder to keep clean, and more likely to fail compared to the bridge. If the bridge was too thick labially, then the crowns would normally be about the same thickness, so see how you dentist goes with the new bridge. When he tries it in for fit, don't let him cement it if it's still too thick - he can always cut some back and have it reglazed. Even the temporary bridge he gives you between appointments should be close to the correct thickness and feel good. Photos of your current bridge from the front and above would be helpful to see.

Permanent Bridge, Temporary Cement, and Oral Implants question

PVP: Dear dentists, I need your help! I have to complete my medical history and examination form in order to participate in an academic exchange program. But I'm Russian, I live in Russia, and my doctor is Russian too. So it is difficult for us to write in english some points. There is a question in the form: "Does ...(me)... now have or have they ever had .... tooth or gum disease (periodontal disease)?". And there is a space provided to explain, if yes. Well, I had pulpitis of one tooth (left upeer 2nd molar, the pulp has been removed), and a dental caries of another one (right upper 1st molar, restored). Do I have to inicate this, and if yes, how? What should my doctor write on the paper? Thank you for your answers!

Need help with my Medical History Form

benberi545: Everything started 2 years ago, where my tooth had a big black hole until it started hurting very badly to a point where I can't close my mouth. I received a treatment right a way, they opened the tooth and started cleaning a bit so it will not be painful. Since the pain has gone, I stopped the treatments, till the pain came back again. Now repeat this 4 times, until I realized that I really have to have a serious go on that tooth and fix it. I paid $2000 for root canal and a crown before even starting to work on it. The dentist took 2 months or so on the canal root there, and finally closed the roots and put down the crown. 2 months later, I feel a bad pain on the tooth and 2 teeth next to it, and the side of my jaw started to blow. The dentist gave me Augmentin 875 and it killed the pain and the blowing. The situation of my tooth that that moment was this (my special drawing from what I remember): After I finished the antibiotics, I came back and he took a look at the x-ray, and said that renewing the canal root mostly wont fix the issue, we can extract it and finish with it but we really need to help the tooth. He said okey, we will do a small surgery and cut down a small piece of your root and clean the infection. So after the surgery (idk what he did but it hurts): Something like this, he drilled my jaw I think to clean the infection, and cut a small piece of my right side root. Now I have side effects like blowing on my jaw and a bit of pain. Just asking, is this treatment real? Like something that really happens and can help? have u heard of it? MattKW: You seem to have had an apicocectomy. These can work OK if done by a very experienced dentist or an endodontist, but would not be my first choice of treatment as they bring in greater risks of failure. A copy of your before/after xrays would be helpful. I'd suggest you go to an endodontist for at least a consultation and opinion.

Complex canal root fixed by surgery?

Noodle24: In the last week or two i've started to get a dull toothache in a tooth that's had a RCT many years ago that's remained constant. After seeing my dentist he undertook an X ray of the tooth (Bottom Left furthest Molar) and saw a small black shadow which he said could be infection or inflammation. He recommended the tooth would need removing in future but insisted that it wasn't a problem right now. The filling on the top of this tooth did chip a few months ago when the tooth next to it was removed.It has since been repaired. This is where i get concerned. I am due to go abroad to Italy for a week in just 10 days time. I shall be going with a lot of friends and family to celebrate my 30th. I explained this to my dentist who said that unfortunately it was just a case of leaving the tooth and hoping it didn't get too painful, no antibiotics prescribed. I'm very anxious about this problem getting worse over the next 2 weeks. My questions are: Should i just go on holiday and hope the infection doesn't get too bad (if it is that) or should i push for antibiotics? Could the small black spot at the bottom of my root be anything other than infection? Busybee: Noodle you're only going for a week and the worst case scenario you can see a dentist as an emergency while you are in italy. I was in Italy with someone who had a problem with a tooth a couple of years ago and even though we were in a remote location she was taken to see a dentist in town and they did really help her. Try not to worry, there are good dentists there too. Make sure you have insurance. Take ibuprofen with you just in case. But it could be that the dental work you had is a bit too high and it's making the tooth more tender or "bruised". Could be your bite after having an extraction has shifted too much pressure there. There could be other factors. A dentist saying it "could be infection" doesn't meant it's an infection. See another dentist for an opinion. There's no point taking antibiotics if there is no definite infection, in fact it's a risk to take meds for no reason. I've had experience twice of being told I have an infection which turns out to be nothing. Always worth it to see more than one dentist about that. If your dentist was sure then you'd have been prescribed meds. It's not always that obvious in the early stages. See another dentist for an opinion before you go just to put your mind at rest. A second opinion doesn't cost much. Noodle24: Thanks Busybee, I guess i just let anxiety get the better of me. I spent the best part of £1k trying to save the tooth next to this one which ultimately got a bad infection and came out. Just wanted to mitigate the chances of this happening again over the next few weeks as much as possible.

Root Canal Problems

Marwane: So i got my braces 3 years ago, and as my dentist took some teeth out, i noticed that my right part of my jaw is not the same as the left one, there's a missing tooth.

I think my dentist took the wrong tooth

tia123456789: Hi everyone! I went to the dentist and they found a few pockets that are 6mm in depth and one area showing slight bone loss. The gum specialist kept saying my teeth are not that bad. Same with the dentist. But at the same time he says I should just skip the deep cleaning including planing and scaling, and go straight to flap surgery. I feel like the information is contradicting, my gums are "not bad" but then I have to go for the most invasive procedure? Is it unusual for someone to skip deep cleaning with planing and scaling and go straight to flap surgery? The gum specialist says that the reason he wants to do the flap surgery is because deep cleaning is not effective enough. He says it could miss a spot of tartar and then the bacteria could grow underneath without me knowing ie: the outer gums will look great but then inside could have bacterial growth. It will be a false indicator of my gum health. Have any of you people with 6mm pockets have just have deep cleaning (scaling and planning) and found this is good enough? Ie: what is the long term effectiveness of just this deep cleaning (5 years)? Do you find that the majority of the patients who do a deep cleaning end up having to do flap surgery in the end? Thank you Tia tia123456789: Hello anyone? jill turner: Hi, I was wondering the outcome of your gum pocket situation. I'm having the same problem. Did you end up having the flap surgery? Thanks for any help, Uptown101: The flap procedure is necessary when severe gum disease (periodontitis) has damaged the bones that support your teeth. Healthy pockets typically measures 1-3 millimeters and it may require some type of periodontal disease treatment. Pocket depths that are deeper than 6 mm are usually an indication of more advanced gum disease. You may need surgery for severe gum disease (periodontitis) and it was called Flap Surgery. A flap procedure cleans the roots of a tooth and repairs bone damage caused by a gum disease. The doctor will pull back a section of your gums to clean the roots of your teeth and repair damaged bone. Typically it takes only a few days to recover from a flap procedure. Be sure to follow the home care instructions that your dentist or oral surgeon gives you. jill turner: Uptown101 said: The flap procedure is necessary when severe gum disease (periodontitis) has damaged the bones that support your teeth. Healthy pockets typically measures 1-3 millimeters and it may require some type of periodontal disease treatment. Pocket depths that are deeper than 6 mm are usually an indication of more advanced gum disease. You may need surgery for severe gum disease (periodontitis) and it was called Flap Surgery. A flap procedure cleans the roots of a tooth and repairs bone damage caused by a gum disease. The doctor will pull back a section of your gums to clean the roots of your teeth and repair damaged bone. Typically it takes only a few days to recover from a flap procedure. Be sure to follow the home care instructions that your dentist or oral surgeon gives you. Click to expand... jill turner: Thanks for responding to my post. I'm guessing you went ahead with the flap surgery because the deep cleaning was not enough? How was the recovery from the surgery. Thanks

Is flap surgery the best option right now?

Teethcv: Hello all I have 10 missing teeth on my top jaw and I have a custom made denture at the moment and what winding do I need an implant for every teeth I have missing ir is there some way I can have a couple of implants or something like that please give me advice as im being told I need one for every teeth and there must be a cheaper way please advice niceone: The problem with implants is that they can still get infected, if you are not careful. Avoid implants if you can. Busybee: They don't usually do one implant per missing tooth. They do a few implants and attach a bridge between them. But I doubt it's cheap. There are always risks with any dental work but if you go to a good dentist they should do their best to minimise these. You obviously have to look after hygiene when you have such work. The main thing is don't go for cheap and attractive special offers as you may end up paying double fixing mistakes. Do your research on a good specialist. Athethos: Yup, what Busybee said, implants are pricey, but there are ways to fill multiple empty sockets without having to install the implants one at the time. Afterwards, it's a matter of using a special toothpaste for this kind of fillings. Admittedly, there's nothing to be scared of, if you can afford it.

10 missing teeth and need advice about implants

Stephen80: Hi All, My first post, and to explain everything that's going on will probably take a while, so please bear with me. I will start from the beginning and try to be as succinct as I can. I visited the dentist in mid-February as I was having a shooting pain in what I thought was my lower back right molar (no.7 I've been told it's called). The NHS dentist I saw advised that I had a crack in my tooth which didn't surprise me as I've been told that I grind my teeth (and whilst I'm pretty good at wearing my tooth guard, I didn't wear it always). As this was NHS, I had to wait for an appointment - one was booked for the end of March. On the 5th March I noticed that my pain was getting worse, to the point where I couldn't eat on my right hand side. I made an emergency appointment on the 7th March, at which point the pain was unbearable... coming in waves of pain. The NHS dentist did my filling and it was then I found out that the crack was actually in my no.6 not where I thought the paid was coming from (she also commented that she wouldn't charge me as much as first quoted as the filling didn't need to be that deep - this becomes relevant later). She then took an X-ray as she seemed surprised by the level of pain I was in. From this, she identified that my bottom right wisdom tooth is situated horizontally and is impacted in my no.7 underneath the gum and is rotting it. Due to nerve placement she told me I'd need to get a surgeon to remove the wisdom tooth. Thankfully I have BUPA through my work and whilst they don't cover dental issues, the do cover operations, and so instead of waiting I managed to get an appointment on the 9th March to see a surgeon... a good job too as the pain was unbearable, I couldn't eat properly and couldn't drink any hot drinks. I met the surgeon and he said he needed to take a Cone Beam X-ray to see what was going on, but this would have to be in the hospital on Monday 12th March. After a horrendous weekend, I had the Cone Beam and was lucky enough to see the surgeon afterwards (he made a special visit as he knew how much pain I was in - cannot say enough about this guy). He said he didn't feel the wisdom teeth needed to be removed and thought they were a red herring, he did however notice what he thought was decay in my no.6, which is were I had the filling by the NHS dentist. It was at this time that I also found that sipping cold water got rid of the pain for a minute before it came back in waves - each sip would sooth it but the pain would go on for over an hour on each attack, so I was drinking a lot. My surgeon told me that due to these symptoms he felt I had irreversible pulpitis. I managed to get another appointment at my dentist on 13th March, however, I had lost faith in my NHS dentist so I decided to see the private dentist. I should note that about an hour before my appointment I was getting another attack of the pain in the form of waves, and where water had soothed the pain before, this time it caused it to become more excruciating, and the pain had moved from the lower jaw to the cheekbone. It hurt so bad that I was screaming in agony. By the time I got to my dentist, I was in tears due to the pain (and stress of the past week). He examined me, took more X-rays and told me that the NHS dentist hadn't gone deep enough on my filling and there was decay underneath. He undertook what he called a deep filling on my no.6 and told me I would be sore for a couple of weeks. He then charged me for the privilege (I was in too much pain to argue, even though if this had been done the first time correctly then perhaps I wouldn't have gone through this level of pain). He also commented that he felt my wisdom tooth was causing a problem and that I would need my no.7 removed, due to the level of decay and impaction from the wisdom tooth - I argued against this following what the surgeon had said, and we decided to see if the filling resolved the problem. Anyway, here I am today and I'm still experiencing discomfort. Don't get me wrong, the waves of pain have gone, however, I still have an aching pain in my right cheekbone and I have tenderness underneath my lower right teeth. I still can't eat anything that isn't soft, as I get a jabbing pain when I chew, although it's not all the time. For example, I had chicken last night that was relatively soft, and I got a jabbing pain on a couple of bites, but on other bites it was just uncomfortable, not painful. I also get the occasional heartbeat in my no.6 tooth, which I read on forums was the tooth dying, as such, I decided to go back to my dentist today. He initially told me that he felt all of my issues were now the wisdom tooth and he should pull it. I was reluctant, as the pain is in no.6 and if I end up having no.7 removed and it doesn't solve the pain, then I might end up losing no.6 as well. He then examined me by feeling around my gums and checking my teeth and told me everything seemed fine, and he thought the pain was just my mouth still recovering from the trauma of the deep filling. So, I have no idea where to go from here. I could leave this a bit longer to see if the pain subsides or should I pay another dentist for a second opinion? My issue is, I have to put so much trust in what I'm told and if I get something done irreversible (such as a tooth removed) and it doesn't solve the problem then I'm not only out of pocket, but also without a tooth (or teeth potentially!). Sorry for the overlong post - I would be grateful for any advice? Busybee: You seem to be getting lots of conflicting information. But I do find that when you have two dentists you can end up with three opinions. You should request all the dental records from your nhs practice (before and after x rays and the notes). You are entitled to this information by law if you make a request. They are allowed to make a small admin charge if they wish. You should then find a good dentist (or two) and get them to examine you and look at your current situation. Then ask for a second opinion on all the work you've had done vs the x rays and notes. You are not in the same pain as before, so make sure you don't rush into any work without getting some different viewpoints. At least you haven't yet had to have any teeth extracted and your last dentist has managed to reduce your pain and has tried to help you. You are no longer screaming in agony. It's possible that the filling he did needs to be adjusted down slightly as your bite may be too high. This should be free of charge. If your wisdom tooth is horizontally impacted then that doesn't sound too healthy for the root of the tooth next door. What you should do is complain about the NHS dentist who it appears gave you a filling in your 7 which you didn't need. You will need your records to do so. Your symptomatic tooth was also made worse. You will need the opinion of another dentist. a report can cost up to £50 but may be less. By the way I'm not sure what is no. 7 and no. 6 but diagrams show this to be an upper right incisor and canine. You were talking about lower back right molars. These are 30 and 31 on diagrams. Stephen80: Busybee said: What you should do is complain about the NHS dentist who it appears gave you a filling in your 7 which you didn't need. You will need your records to do so. Your symptomatic tooth was also made worse. You will need the opinion of another dentist. a report can cost up to £50 but may be less. Click to expand... Thanks for the advice... just to clarify, the crack was actually in my no.6 (as my dentist calls it) and this is where the NHS dentist placed the small filling... she then said my issue was my wisdom tooth. The surgeon then told me this wasn't the case and when I went to see the private dentist he gave me a deeper filling in my no.6 saying that the NHS dentist (who works for him) hadn't gone deep enough and there was decay underneath... so if she had caught it in time then I might not have gone through a week or unbearable pain. I was charged £73 on my first visit and £109 on my second visit... so, the most I could probably claim back is £73 and it might not be worth it if I have to spend money for reports etc. Busybee said: By the way I'm not sure what is no. 7 and no. 6 but diagrams show this to be an upper right incisor and canine. You were talking about lower back right molars. These are 30 and 31 on diagrams. Click to expand... Not sure if this is just the way it is in the UK, but both the dentist and surgeon referred to my bottom right molars as no.6 and no.7 (i.e. the two back teeth) and my impacted wisdom tooth in my back right as my no.8? Busybee: I think they count from the middle outwards (starting with the central incisor). In terms of the complaint you should make it so that the NHS are aware of the problem. You may be in a position to claim compensation for your distress and pain. That would be in excess of the cost of the work. so the private dentist you saw was at the same practice? I'd get a second opinion from another dentist. It's worth the money to have your teeth checked by someone who knows what they are doing. You could end up spending far more in the future if there is an underlying problem that hasn't been addressed. Stephen80: Busybee said: so the private dentist you saw was at the same practice? I'd get a second opinion from another dentist. It's worth the money to have your teeth checked by someone who knows what they are doing. You could end up spending far more in the future if there is an underlying problem that hasn't been addressed. Click to expand... I agree with you, and I've been looking at other practices to go to, but I have no idea if they would be any good. I've found a practice that looks nice and will cost me £20 a month, however, I've lost all faith now and I'm worried I could go there and find they have less experience than the dentists at my current practice Busybee: It is worth looking at both NHS choices and the General Dental Council website for a specialist in your area. NHS choices have reviews of NHS Dentists. I'd recommend you google a "minimally invasive" dentist because their focus is on conservative dentistry, preservation of tooth structure and a more careful approach. They might for example take the view that "watchful waiting" is a good approach to your impacted wisdom tooth, where they observe over time whether it's likely to cause a serious problem, etc. MattKW: Long and detailed post, wish you had an OPG to show. The way I interpret what you have said and what the dentists have said comes down to: 1. Wisdom tooth (8) prob not decayed, but impacted against 7. 2. This often causes decay in back edge of 7. You may have decay there. 3. You seem to have had deep decay in 6. Depsite treatment, this may not have resolved. Tooth pain can appear to be coming from nearly any tooth on the same side: front/back/top/bottom. It doesn't cross the midline of your face. Sometimes it can be difficult to locate the exact source of pain if there are a few choices - your perosnal indication is only one of the factors. The dentist also has to look at Xrays, test teeth with tapping, test teeth with cold, listen to your history of the development of the pain and the type of pain, and then make a decision. If you're unlucky, there will be more than one tooth involved. I'd get the records (politely) including copies of Xrays, and get a second opinion. If you drop the records off to the new dentist a few days before your appointment, it'll give him/her a chance to review before you come in. Stephen80: Thank you both for your replies. I'm actually on the way to being sorted now, as I found a local dentist in my area that had 30 positive Google ratings, and upon reading his page, he sounded very experienced so I thought I'd give him a go and booked in for an emergency appointment yesterday. I took copies of my x-rays that were taken weeks ago (sorry I haven't posted them in on here, I don't have them digitally) and I showed them to my new dentist and he said he new exactly what the problem was as he could see my nerve was all inflamed. I explained my symptoms of the throbbing/heartbeat in the tooth, wobbly feeling, pain to bite on and the tenderness in the gum. I also explained my previous symptoms and how the waves of pain had gone, and he agreed that believed my surgeon had made the correct call with the irreversible pulpitis. I was advised that the reason the waves of pain had stopped was because the tooth had probably died. Long story short, he drilled out my mouth (there was a disgusting smell in the office which I presume was related to my dead pulp?) and he applied a sedative dressing (which again is what my surgeon had recommended a couple of weeks ago). I have a root canal planned for next Thursday. He also confirmed at the end of the appointment that my tooth was in fact dead and I had an abscess forming (which is presumably why my bite was becoming more painful) Whilst I still feel a little tender and I still feel a slight pain when I bite something that isn't very soft, I do actually feel so much better than I have done in weeks now. However, I'm very angry at both the NHS dentist and the Private dentist (her boss) that I went to see, as they had so many opportunities to capture this and if they had acted early enough, I probably wouldn't have lost my tooth. In addition, I paid them over £180 for this poor service and now I've had to pay £105 for yesterday's treatment, with the Root Canal being estimated at about £350 next week. So, all in all, it's going to cost me over £600 in total to have what I deem an unpleasent procedure (not that I've ever had a root canal before) when if my initial dentist had spotted the issue in the first place I wouldn't have had to go through any of this pain and suffering and at a fraction of the price. I just hope the root canal goes okay as some of the horror stories I've read whilst I've been researching this really make worry about this procedure - I feel I've found a good dentist so hopefully it'll be okay. Anyway, once again, thanks to you both for taking the time to come back to me. Busybee: I hope it works out with the new dentist. Good news that you are feeling better. Keep us posted on progress. Stephen80: Thank you - I will update after the procedure. Stephen80: So, I've just got back from root canal procedure - that's not an experience I want again. Don't get me wrong the new dentist I've found seemed to be very good, but having my jaw open for so long was not fun and the injection was really painful (he had to do it twice because of the shape of my jaw!) At the end, my dentist took another x-ray and he pointed out that some of the filling has gone through the bottom of where my root was - he showed me on the x-ray and there seemed to be a lump next to the root. He told me that this is inert and won't be a problem - is this correct? I know I should probably just trust what he's said, but after the experiences I've had recently with my previous dentists, I'm now very paranoid. I also asked if I'd needed a crown (as I've read you normally do) and he's confirmed I will, but he says not to worry about it at the moment and to see how the root canal goes. I hope this isn't because he's expecting problems... in fairness he did say this before he had undertaken the procedure, so I'm sure it was precautionary as opposed to concern that something went wrong afterwards. Anyway, hopefully everything will be okay. Thanks to the Busybee and Matt for replying on this post - it's nice to have people with experience help. Busybee: Stephen was this a specialist endodontist? I'm not sure of different methods, but I did think that you don't leave a tooth uncrowned after the nerve dies. I thought you crowned it to strengthen and protect it. I know that gutta perca sometimes can go a little outside the root but thought your body absorbs that over time. It was the rubber filler than went past the root right? MattKW: So some of the GP has gone through the root tip - the body doesn't reabsorb it, but if all is clean, then often the body tolerates it OK. This might be why he wants to wait a little while before crowning, to see if it gives you any issues. The sooner the crown, the less likelihood of fracture; some teeth will fracture before the RCT is finished! Some endodontists put orthodontic bands around the teeth to prevent fractures until crown can be made. Personally, I sometimes shorten the tips of the tooth straight after my RCT preps, or do a temporary crown preparation, and wait a few weeks before commencing crown. It's understandable that patients sometimes can't do crowns straight away because of time or money constraints. Stephen80: Hi both, Thanks again for the responses. Today feels pretty good on the tooth, I had a pasta ready-meal at lunch and I only occasionally felt some pain as I chewed the parts the microwave had made hard... I presume this wasn't from the tooth as the nerve has been removed, and I'm guessing that it's just part of the natural healing process (although please tell me if I shouldn't be getting any pain). I should add, my dentist pointed out that there was an abscess prior to him undertaking the root canal, again, I presume he would have removed this during the procedure? I also have a sore throat and blocked, slightly painful, ear on the right side of my face... again, I presume this is normal at the moment? As for the filling, as you've both correctly highlighted, this is GP as I remember my dentist telling me that's what it was (I just can't spell it which is why I'm calling it a filling) I've arranged a new patients visit with this new dentist on the 3rd May, which is the first appointment I could get due to my work commitments and his availability, and whilst we're going to discuss the crown then, I'm guessing I'll need a new appointment to take a mould and then another visit to fit it, as such, I'm probably going to be without a crown for at least two months. Whilst my dentist did advise I'd need one, he didn't express any urgency with it... do you think a couple of months is too long as I'm really not sure how I can get this sorted any quicker? Busybee: Hi Stephen, you should really do your best to avoid chewing on the tooth for now. If you had an abcess and are now having symptoms such as a fever or lymph node pain or swelling under your jaw then you should go back and say you need antibiotics. Obviously you should only take antibiotics when you need them but a dental infection doesn't always go away without some help from medication. You could take some ibuprofen to see if that helps. You might also want to try to have some extra vitamin C as that can promote healing. It's just something I do if I have anything like this and I've found it helps. The abscess won't be removed by the dentist, rather it should heal on it's own once the nerve of the tooth is removed. When I've had root treatment the Endo always emptied the canal and then sent me away with a temp dressing before filling with gutta perca and sealing a few days later. This he said was to let any residual infection find its way out. He also stuck something in there that smelt like disinfectant (drain cleaner!) and I immediately would have relief from symptoms. I did look up the shooting past the root tip with filler online just out of curiosity and I have some old x rays of my own rcts. The article I read said that shooting past the root can cause aches and sensitivity and that the filler should end a fraction short of the tip (which is not always easy to see. So that might be why the dentist wants to wait and see how you get on. I think May is a long time to wait for a crown. If you have a problem you may have to go back sooner. It's a shame you didn't go to an endodontist for treatment. They deal with all sorts of complex cases & invest in the most high tech equipment. Although all dentists are trained in this, they don't always do it every day like an endo. Some dentists won't do any root treatment and will automatically refer to a specialist. Stephen80: Hi Busybee, Thanks for the response. Perhaps I've made things sound worse than they are - my dentist did say I have an abscess but my tooth doesn't hurt anymore. My sore throat has now gone and whilst my ears still feel a little blocked, this is nothing new for me and they have certainly eased since the treatment. If I was a betting man, I would guess that given I had my jaw open for an hour, this is what's causing my ear blockage. I do grind my teeth and my ears have always felt blocked to a degree, it's just they were painful initially after the root canal (although only when I tried to equalise them) but as I say, this seems to be getting easier. The weird thing at the moment is a strange feeling I have just below my lip on the right hand side. It's really hard to explain as it's not painful. It almost feels like there is something stuck in there or that it's slightly numb, but its only occasional and so it could just be psychosomatic. My big fear at the moment is the overfill of GP - I've also read some horror stories on-line. That being said, I would have thought if it was a problem then I would still be feeling pain? I know I should have seen an Endo, but I couldn't find an experienced one near where I live. Also, at the point of my initial visit, I wasn't even sure I would need a root canal, I was purely after a second opinion as my previous dentist had told me that I just had to wait until the deep filling had settled down. Whilst I didn't think he was correct, my fear with visiting an Endo was my assumption they would say I needed a root canal even if I didn't, as it's all money for them. Given my past experience, I've become very wary and cynical of dentists now (MattKW excluded from this sweeping statement of course, as he's done nothing but try to help, much like you). My current plan is to just see what happens. I am eating on both sides now, as my dentist advised I would be fine to eat normally even without a crown, so perhaps it still has a good structure on the outer shell? Of course, he did recommend that I have a crown eventually, so I'll discuss this with him when I next see him, but perhaps the crown is just precautionary - I have read that not all root canal teeth need crowns? Obviously, if my symptoms change or if I start to experience pain then I'll go back sooner. The above aside, if either you, Matt or anyone else has any other suggestions, or think my wait-it-out strategy is flawed, then please let me know. Thanks again for your continued help. Busybee: Hi Stephen I'm so glad you are not in pain. It tends to be a dentist who refers you to an endo. Some do so as a matter of course, others are more likely to do so in more complex cases. Leaving a tooth uncrowned can sometimes create long term problems as infection can get back in, or the tooth can crack because the enamel can go more brittle as it's like a dry bone with no marrow. A crown seals and strengthens. You should be careful what you eat on that tooth while it's uncrowned. RCT failure or a crack in the root is more costly long term than a crown now. But take your dentist's advice as he knows what the load is on that tooth. In terms of the numbness in your lip that should pass. Could be just down to the local anaesthetic.

Unknown Pain - Advice Please

aqz: Ive had this non painful redness on roof of mouth for nearly 3 weeks dentist and docs say it looks like injury. However this is a pic of it in the morning and looks like new skin forms but when i eat and drink it becomes red again and the white bits dissapear. I am really worried and anxious at the moment. Does this look like oral cancer? Robin Pandey: I am not a dentist and honestly I think it's nothing.. If there is no emergency and you are not in pain then I would ask you to wait for 2-3 weeks and then consult the doctor if the area hasn't healed.. Uptown101: Yeah you don't have to panic as long as you're not in pain, Just wait for a couple of days or weeks, if it's still there maybe you should consult your dentist. aqz: Thank you all for your kind words. But i am trying not check it as much now but its still back of my mind. It is still there. I am a mouth breather and always wake up with dry mouth i dont know if that had something to do with it? aqz: I am a smoker which i know dont help in healing Busybee: Well it's thought saliva promotes healing but you can't control how you sleep. Of course smoking clogs up your blood stream with poisons your body doesn't need and stops your mouth getting as much oxygen and good things which keep everything in there healthy. It's a bit like sucking on a car exhaust pipe and hoping to feel good. But it's looking a lot better than a week ago. How does it feel? aqz: @Busybee really? You think it looks better? Looks the same to me and there is no pain as such just a lil uncomfortable at times. I dont know i will just have to see how it goes i guess. Busybee: It definitely looks much better than when you first posted. It will heal in time but you should stop smoking, not just for the sake of your mouth but your overall health. I used to get mouth ulcers when I smoked, but never since I gave up. It's just bad for everything and especially your wallet. aqz: @Busybee Thank you for your kind words and advice. I just need to stop obsessing over it and enjoy life.x aqz: @Busybee hi this is the latest pic i took just now is it improving? stanly: aqz said: I am a smoker which i know dont help in healing Click to expand... i think you may go to good dental doctor Busybee: aqz said: @Busybee hi this is the latest pic i took just now is it improving? Click to expand... It's looking so much better than before. How does it feel? aqz: There is no pain @Busybee aqz: stanly said: i think you may go to good dental doctor Click to expand... I have already seen dentist but not really looking concerned? Busybee: Try to not check it for a week and I reckon when you look next Saturday it will have disappeared.

Is this healing ?

Devin M.: I went to the dentist and they charged me 5700$ for a deep cleaning and to get 2 teeth pulled. I don't know much about cost but I believe they are wayyyy overcharging me for the work done. Is this true and if it is what can I do to get it lowered. Small claims? Busybee: What country are you in? Either you added a zero, or you live in a remote outpost where the dentist has to fly in by chartered plane or you live in a country where the currency is very weak. Devin M.: In the U.S. I'm in Michigan living in a big city. And yea $5,700. Idk if I should take them to small claims if it's worth it. Busybee: It's pretty ridiculous, but you should always ask for a quote before you agree to treatment. In the UK the practice is meant to give you a treatment plan and be clear on charges, but patients don't always bother to push for this when they are in pain and distress. It's really up to the profession to police bad practice because it taints all dentists if one is a rip off merchant. Busybee: by the way you can't really take them to small claims if these rates are advertised on a website or in their practice. They will say you should have asked how much it would cost. So you may be able to make some claim but they would have a strong counter argument that you didn't ask for the cost. Devin M.: Ok thanks, i made sure to ask about what the total cost would be and some of the charges were not in the paperwork that I signed and agreed on. I keep getting random bills of additional fees so I think I'll call a lawyer to see what they have to say Busybee: Have you asked them why they keep sending you bills? I don't know what the law is on such matters over there, but in the UK there are various consumer laws that stop this sort of thing happening. You pay at the end of treatment, usually with a deposit part way through if treatment is in two or more stages. You don't keep getting bills once treatment has finished.

Dentist overcharge?

gustav ljungberg: So i noticed i have 3 small medium deep holes on the same tooth on both sides, they dont hurt or anything and they are not dark or any such signs up decay but im not sure if its how my teeth are supposed to look or if its small decays, ( i have a planned dentist time, but its stressing me out and i would like a piece of mind) KVMCruces: Not able to tell you anything based off of what you said. If you're able to, you should post a picture. gustav ljungberg: KVMCruces said: Not able to tell you anything based off of what you said. If you're able to, you should post a picture. Click to expand... i tried, the camera wont focus no matter what i do

unsure if cavities or my tooth shape

Alpesh: Hi All, I'm an engineer and my wife is a dentist and we are planning to open our own dentistry which will be operated by my wife. However, we will also be planning a baby in near future. Since it is NOT safe for pregnant woman to get exposed to x-ray(and other things that I might not know in dentistry), my questions are. 1) Which are the things that a pregnant dentist should be careful about while operating during pregnancy? which she would NOT normally(when she is NOT pregnant) be careful about. Ex: taking x-rays 2) What are the workaround? to all the answers for question 1). Assuming that my wife would like to continue operation until she is in her 8th OR 9th month of pregnancy. 3) Are there any gadgets available that would be good(and specific) to have for a pregnant dentist. I would really appreciate your answers, to help us make informed decision that will affect our future generation. niceone: I know it's not easy, but to be 100% sure, she needs to take a break from her job.

Pregnant dentist

Roger: hi Have aome quite stubborn plaque on back of my teeth so started using Corsodyl toothpaste about 10 days ago. I’ve got used to the taste but not sure if i should stop as I have some pain around the plaque areas, seems to be physicaly removing the plaque as seems to be a bit peeling off. Is this normal or ahould i stop using and head back to the dentist? Busybee: You should head back to the dentist and have a hygiene appointment. That will get rid of the plaque. A good electric toothbrush will help to keep it off. Use a toothpaste the dentist recommends for sensitive teeth.

Started using corsodyl

Corin1991: I grind my teeth in my sleep and am due to pick up a mouth guard next week. However I have woken up on a lot of pain with my front tooth and have this mark on the bottom? Is it possible to bruise a tooth? Is it something I need to see a dentist about before Tuesday at an emergency/on call? The mark wasn’t there last night and the tooth was very tender this morning when brushing. Is had got less painful as the day has gone on. Please see picture it is the bottom of the right front tooth Busybee: Yes you can bruise a tooth and I've done it numerous times with a front tooth that's crowned & root filled. It can be very sore for a few days but then it's like it never happened. I don't know what colour it would be if live, but I'm sure there's nothing that can't wait until you see the dentist on tuesday. I'm sure that the worst that can happen is they may need to crown it. It's really great that you are getting a mouth guard, it should give you great relief. Make sure you wear it every single night - you don't want to lose your teeth when it's so easy to prevent!

Mark on my front tooth. Advise please

John Roberts: I have posted on here many times in the last year or so about my problems with my teeth. I am still having the most trouble with the front top four 7,8,9,10 and the bottom teeth below them. Most all the others bother me but not like the fronts. I have been to numerous dentist and doctors with no real answers. I have told everyone of them my speech and bite has changed. I don't know why. I think that is what is happening g to my front top teeth. I believe the lower teeth are pushing against them and keeping them hurting. Number 7 ( which hurts the worse) and 8 and 9 have very old crowns. Number 7 and 8 both have root canals also. My question is if I have these three crowns replaced can the dentist make them so they don't touch the bottom when I close my mouth. Or I guess you could say adjust the bite which I don't know why is off to start with. Just wondering about the crowns.

Bite and new crowns

Dental Impatient: I've had tons of dental work. I have numerous huge fillings, an atrocious bite (it surprises every dentist I've seen), five root canals, five crowns. My teeth don't look good, they generally don't feel good. For the past three years I've been getting opinions on how to correct it, all of which cost 10-15k. A cosmetic dentist wanted to crown all my back teeth (16) with emax. This wouldn't even address my open bite. My current dentist wants to build up the front first so my teeth can guide properly, and then work on the back. I recently had a filling break and become a root canal, which got me thinking about the 8-10 other similar fillings I have, all of which might have the same thing happen. This teeth twist me up and pre-occupy my thoughts and are costing me a small fortune, and they don't even look good. I'll probably spend between 10-20k to get the bite corrected (if that works), and then after that I'll be constantly replacing crowns for the rest of my life. Is there a legitimate case for me thinking about just having them all just yanked (at the very least in the back) and getting some sort of implant anchored denture? John Roberts: Do your teeth hurt? Do you think your bite hurts them?

Fighting the inevitable

Godbotz: Hey since i was 13 years old i got my right canin fixed to get in its place by removing a tooth idk where, i am no dental expert, but i didn't get my left canine fixed for some reasons and now the years passed by and i'm feeling insecure about it there's any way i can get it fixed ? should i get braces ? how much braces coast for this exact same issue so i can start saving money, i'm 18 years old now if that helps (i am not an english speaker so excuse my bad anglish) thank you Busybee: The easiest thing to do would probably be some minor cosmetic work to bring out the incisor maybe with some composite, but they'd probably want to shave bits off your teeth to make them more even. If you have veneers that means more tooth material would need to be removed so you risk compromising the health of the tooth. The other alternative is orthodontics which is expensive, carries its own risks (see root resorption) and means you have to wear retainers every night the rest of your days. The fourth option is "do nothing". Your teeth look cute the way they are. This is you and unless they are uncomfortable or your jaw hurts I'd leave them as is. Too many people want to change things that give their appearance character. Once dentists start fiddling with your teeth to make them look nice you end up with other issues. It's ok when you're a child and it's all still growing, but once you're an adult it's not so simple. Plus anything you have done now could be upset by the eruption of your wisdom teeth. MattKW: It's too deep for composite buildup without making a nasty plaque trap that could lead to decay between your teeth, plus the way you bite would probably be an interference. Orthodontically would be best way, and you could ask about simply fixing this one area of concern rather than full upper and lower braces. And wisdom teeth have no effect on front teeth - common myth, not supported by studies. Busybee: Wisdom teeth closed my gaps from three extractions. Had I not had those spaces they would either have impacted or I'd have crooked teeth. I remember being able to stick my tongue in a gap as a teen. The trouble with studies is that every jaw is different, everyone has different dentition and there are just too many variables. But I reckon that in the UK any dentist not trying to sell invisilgn would try to persuade a patient to have veneers/crowns for this problem. I would say leave it be - there is nothing as strong as a normal, healthy natural tooth. MattKW: No, your anecdotal evidence contradicts the studies. In your early teens, the canine teeth drop into place and the common midline diastema automatically closes. Plus, all teeth have a tendency to move forward during life - it's the mechanics of the jaw. A case arose a few years ago where the OS in question removed the wisdom teeth for a patient to "stop crowding at the front". Only problem was that the patient suffered nerve damage, and since the dentist couldn't justify the extractions for his purported reason, he lost the subsequent lawsuit. Crowns or veneers (or Invisalign) will not fix this problem, and you have no experience with these issues. Zuri Barniv: MattKW said: No, your anecdotal evidence contradicts the studies. In your early teens, the canine teeth drop into place and the common midline diastema automatically closes. Plus, all teeth have a tendency to move forward during life - it's the mechanics of the jaw. A case arose a few years ago where the OS in question removed the wisdom teeth for a patient to "stop crowding at the front". Only problem was that the patient suffered nerve damage, and since the dentist couldn't justify the extractions for his purported reason, he lost the subsequent lawsuit. Crowns or veneers (or Invisalign) will not fix this problem, and you have no experience with these issues. Click to expand... I see we finally have someone on here who makes sense and speaks the truth. MattKW: Thanks, Zuri. We might have our minor differences about impacted molars, but at least we're trying to offer reasoned and rational answers on this forum. I'm dropping out for a while, have to go mow the lawn! Zuri Barniv: I've been on here for a few years now, you would be the first one....sadly. Busybee: As I said, I think the OP shouldn't do anything, this sort of imperfection adds character to the face and looks natural and there's no replacing natural tooth material. Maybe I'm wrong about wisdom teeth affecting front teeth, but in my case a canine rotated after wisdom teeth erupted. It's interesting about the court case, but scientific studies are just observations that have not yet been contradicted with different observations. Dental studies of this type must be pretty cumbersome to execute and require a long term commitment. Do you have a reference to the study in the court case? Godbotz: Hi guys i just got notified people actualy responded to my thread and you guys making me freak out i didn't know my case is that bad omg.... MattKW: You might think that Godbotz doesn't need to do anything, but he is feeling insecure and wants suggestions. When you get lots of scientific studies supporting the same conclusions, you have a consensus that develop into guidelines. It takes more than a single case to overthrow the weight of the other studies. And there are lots of ways studies can be conducted, some are better than others, and carry more weight, e.g. prospective Vs retrospective. Who cares how long these things take or how cumbersome they are? If we only relied on what "we" thought was right, I'd still think the Earth was flat. I can't remember any details of the court case, nor find it on Google - just keep getting malpractice lawyers toting for business. MattKW: Welcome back. In essence, take my advice from 10:34am posting. Best wishes.

Canine problem

Tony: Hi, I have a question about my insurance and in hopes of someone clearing up some terms for me to understand. My insurance provider like many others say they do not cover implants, yet no one at my provider can tell me what the following statements mean that I found under my Fee Schedule's codes: "autogenous connective tissue graft procedure, per first tooth, implant or endentulous tooth position in graft" and another that states: "autogenous connective tissue graft procedure - each additional contiguous tooth, implant or edentulous tooth" Of course just wishing, hoping here, but thought I should ask. Thanks for any help. MattKW: Autogenous (your own); connective tissue (supporting skin); graft (well, graft); per first tooth... (for first tooth or implant, or missing tooth). The second phrase is almost the same, but contiguous means for next-door teeth, implant, or missing tooth position. They usually pay a higher amount for the first graft, then a lower amount (a step-down) for a graft that is bigger and goes to adjacent spaces. Autogenous just means they've taken it from somewhere else in your body.

Need Definitions Please

firstone: I was wondering if those pics that floss your teeth can be as good as the straight floss. I try to really get each side of the tooth with them. Thanks

Flossing

aqz: Hi all just abit stressed with this sore on mouth, i have been picking and prodding since i saw it over s week ago. I am so stressed out that it serious becouse i went to dentist and he gave difflam which i sprayed for over a week now the pain is gone but this redness is still there. I went today and saw another dentist and she just says it looks like i scrapped it etc. But to wait for a few more weeks and if still there then will refer me to hospital. This has sent my mind and anxiety to another level. I am just so down, i just got back from gp and she said it looks like nothing serious and dont seem concerned. What should i do? And has anyone else been in a similar situation. Any advice will be much appreciated. Thanks Busybee: I had something like this about ten years ago. I burned the area with some hot tomato soup. In my case it became infected when I went swimming and I was in a lot of pain because it was right over a salivary gland opening. I ended up with an infection that needed antibiotics. Yours isn't over a salivary gland as they are more towards the back. You should stop picking and prodding it and it should heal naturally. I always take extra vit C if I have anything like this in the mouth, which thankfully I haven't for a long time. If you smoke, don't for a few days. If it gets worse, which from what you say isn't happening, then you'd need antibiotics but it sounds as though it's healing because it's stopped hurting you. btw don't take this the wrong way, I'm not a dentist but you really should go for a hygiene appointment. aqz: @Busybee thank you so much for your reply really appreciate it. To be honest i thought redness would go by now but my anxiety is just all over the place i keep checking it and taking pics with phone. Dentist did say if not gone in few weeks will refer me to hosp for further tests this is what is causing me severe anxiety i suffer with health anxiety. Its ok i know i need to have a clean up as i do smoke i know i shouldnt just want to feel normal again. Thanks for your advice. ☺ Busybee: Hi aqz you should relax and let it heal. It just looks like an injury and maybe try to eat soft foods for a few days that aren't too acidic. But if you care about your health you really should stop smoking, it's so bad for your oral health and will make you more prone to ulcers which will take longer to heal. It also affects your gums. Believe me I gave up many years ago and the difference is astonishing. aqz: @Busybee thank you so much for your kind and reassuring words, i hope it is just a thing that will heal. As i dont feel pain or discomfort that is what concerns me and its been there nearly two weeks. I will add i do eat alot of crunchy and spicy things. So thought maybe that has something to do with it. But who knows how long its been there as i only noticed when i started looking with my torch and camera. Health anxiety is just a vicious cycle! aqz: @Busybee would be so greatful if a dentist or oral surgeon can have a look and give their opinion. ☺ aqz: @drmins please could you kindly look and give your opinion. Many thanks

Sore on hard palate

Dozza89: I just had a filling done on a lower tooth and I am noticing something strange. The OPPOSITE tooth directly above (not the tooth where the filling went in) seems rough. Almost feels like it had some filling stuck on it but is that possible?. I'm pretty sure it didn't feel like this before the filling. John Roberts: Go back to the dentist and ask him about it. Could be what you said. Could be he touched the tooth with the drill. If your not satisfied go back.

Rough tooth after filling (opposite)

Arealperson: Hi, I've spent time trying to form these questions so I could get a response. So, thanks in advance. I've also tried to keep it on point or it would be a book. Overview: This extraction was on #31 (#30 and #32 were previously pulled years ago). I’ve never had any issues with any extractions. This is concerning a complex extraction by my new career Dentist (25+ years) (a non OS) on the first visit. 98% of the tooth was removed. The top of the tooth snapped off at the very start of the extraction process with the Dentist continuing. The process took 45 mins. This extraction was a needed maintenance extraction, there was no pain in the tooth, there was no infection. And, no explanation was given by the dentist as to why the extraction was performed the way it was. Scenario: My #31 complex molar extraction. After the 45min. extraction, I was given stitches over the gum area of #30 and told to be careful not to spit the blood clot out. This was a joke as the entire socket had been cut out in a “V” shape and there was no socket or area to produce a blood clot (Much tissue was removed on top and sides from 30 - 32). Only the exposed white bone over a three tooth area. Also, all the gums over this 3 tooth area had been pretty much stripped off and removed via suction. The dentist had created a “V” shaped Jack O'Lantern cut (the correct term is unknown) in order to remove the molar. After about 3 months, the healing seemed to stop. And every sense (its been about 6 months now) I’ve have very little feeling (some feeling remains) in that lower quadrant of my mouth. It’s sensitive in that area also, and I have pain, kinda like a toothache also. Tissue has finally covered the area(s) but it feels like a goose egg in my mouth (Like only part of the novocaine wore off). Also the Sublingual Space of my cheek/mouth was opened and remained open for a long time. I’ve had a hard time getting answers on my questions. If you feel the questions are to vague or whatever, please just answer them on their own level of abstraction, the best you can, and provide your assumptions. Questions: (Some may seem redundant, but please, try to answer if in anyway you can.) 1) Is the V” shaped Jack O'Lantern cut (correct term unknown), a type of valid or approved method, procedure or technique that is taught in dental school ? If yes, can you explain ? 2) Is the “V” cut accepted as a practice for Dentist in extracting a molar but is not specificity taught as a method, procedure or technique (or other). Please explain if you can ? 3) What is the criteria (if any) for determining when a patient should be sent to an OS (Oral Surgeon) ? This question asked within the scope of the scenario. 4) On the actual extraction itself (removal of the tooth). Can a dentist (non OS) generally choose/do whatever they want, OR, are they required to use specific approved procedures.? Example, just cut the tooth out, you should try to be careful, maybe use this procedure if you can (or want to), but the way you choose to remove it, is up to you as a dentist. 5) Is there a specific method, procedure or technique to perform Sectioning during a complex extraction ? If yes, what is it ? I’ve been suffering, and it’s really been hard to get answers. So if you can, please have pity on me and try to answer and/or help, because, I’m suffering and need some answers. Thank You for your help, Arealperson MattKW: 1. Hard to say what you're trying to describe. It is not unusual to "raise a flap" with "relieving incisions" into sulcus for a surgical extraction. 2. Again, not sure what you had done, just guessing. 3. No specific criteria; some general dentists are just more experienced than others and will do all themselves. Others refer at first sign of trouble. Others get into trouble (maybe unexpected), and then refer to OS to complete treatment. 4.Different methods can be used. Some methods might be judged better than others, but some techniques are preferred by dentist due to experience. There are some basic surgical do's and don't's in flap design to ensure minimal damage. 5. Again, "different strokes, different folks". The end result is the main aim, as long as basic principles are applied, and no unreasonable treatment is undertaken. If you're not sure about degree of healing, go back to dentist and ask questions, and perhaps ask for referral to OS for higher opinion. Arealperson: Ok, I'll clarify... ------------------------ Clarifying Questions 1 & 2 For Halloween many people choose to use a classic Sawtooth cut for the mouth of the pumpkin. I'm uploading two images bellow. On the jaw cross section I've colored it red so you can see it. The cut is deep and flush with the bottom of my mouth. If you used this pattern around the whole mouth it would be a classic Jack O'Lantern pattern Thats what I meant in my question. ----------------------- Question 3 "some general dentists are just more experienced than others and will do all themselves" So your saying that a general dentist can legally preform any or most, or some surgical procedures.. as in.. "will do all themselves" ? They will do a surgery they feel they can ? That seems illegal to me. Is it ? Am I correct ? Or did I missunderstand. ----------------------- I may be misunderstanding, so in the U.S, As long as a general dentist feels the can do an oral surgery they may legally do it ? --------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for your answers, MattKW: I'm not from the US, hence I'm not a Halloween follower and the sawtooth didn't make sense to me. 1. and 2. It's still not possible to understand quite what you're talking about, as you don't have a post-op pic. That said, it is not always possible to close a flap up completely after an extraction - it would be ideal, because this would be healing by "primary intention", but quite a lot of dentistry healing is by "secondary intention". 3. I don't know quite the situation in US, but it's prob similar to here in Australia. There is no single point at which a dentist needs to refer to an OS; all dentists are qualified to do oral surgery. When I worked in a country area, I did more oral surgery. Now that I in a city, I have access to an OS down the street, I choose to give him most of my difficult cases. Why should I try and do everything as a general dentist when he's doing OS all day, every day, and has a better setup? It's similar to Root Canal Therapy - all dentists are trained, some are better than others, some prefer and actively do more than others, and some refer all cases to specialists.

Dental Procedures and Practices Concerning Extractions.

JackiePeters: Hi everyone, I'm new to this site. I'd like to staff an associate dentist, and I'm curious as to anyone's experience with using recruiters. Did you overpay? Was it worth it? Was posting to job boards effective on its own? I don't want to spend too much money on a recruiter if I don't need to. Thank you all.

Dental Recruiting

theh2h: Hello, I am building an online tool for dentists to send SMS reminders for their patients. The main idea here is that It will be very simple and straightforward to set up, without taking much time from the doctors/employees. I got the idea from a couple of friends (Dentists but still beginners) who were mentioning that the tools they used were a bit complicated/expensive and that they could use a simple tool with the sole purpose of sending SMSs to patients. Just thought I'd jump on the forum and ask your opinion on it, whether you think it is a good idea and If you would use it ? Any other advice is appreciated, thank you. Mike Buff: Honestly I don't think it's useful. I'd choose some kind of software to run my stuff on a daily basis and to keep all of patients info in it

Patient reminder software