About Mark Bornfeld DDS Expertise I can respond to all questions dealing with the practice of dentistry, from both the dentist`s and patient`s perspective. I am knowledgeable about all dental disciplines, from cosmetic dentistry to surgery, from restorative dentistry to root canal treatment. I have strong opinions about controversial issues in dental practice, including those topics which directly impact on the reputation of the profession in the eyes of both the lay public and our health profession colleagues.
Experience
Past/Present Clients Editor, Queens County Academy of General Dentistry newsletter; contributor to Dentistry.com 29 years practicing general dentistry partnered with brother Steve as one-half of the DentalTwins®
Question I went to the dentist yesterday and was told that the nerve inside my left central incisor has died and that the tooth has completely calcified. There is a difference in color of my front two teeth. The dentist recommended veneers for both teeth as it would be almost impossible to match up the color on the front teeth. The cost of both veneers along with an in-office bleaching would be close to $2500. Unfortunately we don't have that kind of money just lying around. My questions to you are: (1)If I do the veneers, do I need to worry about losing my tooth in the future since the nerve is already dead and past the point of a root canal? I would hate to spend all that money only to lose my tooth later on. (2)Do I have any other less expensive options?
Answer Dear Melissa,
There is always some risk of tooth loss in the future, regardless of current status. Granted, the calcification of the canal presents some theoretical risk, but that risk is small if there is currently no demonstrable infection. In the event of future exacerbations, there is also the option of surgical management of infection. On balance, retaining a calcified tooth makes no less sense than the alternative, which would be to extract it and make a prosthetic replacement.
As for less expensive options, I don't think there are material changes in the prescribed course of treatment that would be intrinsically less expensive. However, I have little doubt that you could find a dentist to offer the same services at a significantly lower fee.
Hope this helps...
Mark Bornfeld DDS
www.dentaltwins.com
Brooklyn, NY
