| Subject | Date Asked |
|
| Implant Supported Bridge | 10/3/2008 |
Q: I will be getting four implants to replace my four top front teeth. My regular dentist mentioned ...
A: All metals used in making bridgework should be of medical grade, and should have been approved by ...
|
| 3 temporary bridges later... | 10/3/2008 |
Q: I am getting fitted for a permanent bridge and so far I have had 3 rounds of temporary bridges. The ...
A: If a temporary bridge was placed on the same day that you lost a tooth or teeth, then what you ...
|
| Cheeks amd lichen planus | 10/3/2008 |
Q: My dentist diagnosed me with lichens planus, I also have a bite misalignment. I also seem to be ...
A: Most of my patients have wisdom teeth healed in several days. Some take several weeks. Depends on ...
|
| Extraction, Bone Graft, Dental Bridge | 9/27/2008 |
Q: the tooth next to the front one on my right had a root canal filling 25+ yrs ago, it's been crowned ...
A: Although it is likely that your tooth will need a root canal, it is not a sure thing. Your dentist ...
|
| Bone loss | 9/27/2008 |
Q: I have this problem. I've been diagnosed with severe periodontal disease 2 years ago. I did osseous ...
A: Wearing dentures can cause additional bone loss over time due to the pressure of clenching or ...
|
| Bone loss | 9/27/2008 |
Q: I have this problem. I've been diagnosed with severe periodontal disease 2 years ago. I did osseous ...
A: I can't tell you if you are a good candidate for implants. The doctors you have seen should be able ...
|
| whitish gray palate | 9/21/2008 |
Q: I recently went to the doctor for a sore throat, and I forgot to ask him about my palate being pale ...
A: I'm surprised that, if your doctor looked at your throat through your mouth, he/she did not mention ...
|
| specialist | 9/13/2008 |
Q: I had a tooth pulled back in February because the crown broke in such a way that couldn't be ...
A: Preparing teeth for bridges or crowns makes them about 6% more likely than untouched teeth to need ...
|
| dental implant | 9/6/2008 |
Q: After spending 800.00 to ry and save a tooth..I have to have a dental implant..I am overwhelmed by ...
A: I know Nova University very well, having served as an Adjunct Clinical Professor there for over one ...
|
| Cracked Molar | 9/6/2008 |
Q: My dentist diagnosed my lower molar as being cracked but recommended I do nothing and see if debris ...
A: Huh? See if debris fills in the crack? Debris? This a concept that is new to me. My guess is ...
|
| Toothache like pain after extractions | 9/5/2008 |
Q: a week ago I had all my lower teeth extracted. There is one spot in particular that feels just like ...
A: I'm sorry to hear that you had all your lower teeth extracted. It may be that there was a root left ...
|
| Wisdom tooth | 9/5/2008 |
Q: I have a wisdom tooth that needs to be extracted, I went to my dentist and they drilled it out and ...
A: What most likely will happen is that the remaining roots will continue to decay, and infection will ...
|
| Light spacing on new crown | 9/5/2008 |
Q: I had 2 crowns installed recently. They were located right next to each other. One crown has ...
A: I would agree to wait a month or two. But if you continue to congregate food in the space, and ...
|
| pediatric gum recession | 9/5/2008 |
Q: Finnk, I recently noticed that the gum of my 6year old daughter's two bottom front adult teeth were ...
A: Never panic. While you are waiting, see if you can find a pediatric dentist near you who can see ...
|
| Jaw Question | 8/31/2008 |
Q: Recently I developed a sore jaw... started just in front of the ear and progressed downward to chin. ...
A: You most likely had an infection coming from a tooth. I can't tell from here if it was your wisdom ...
|
| Blue/black tooth (on side) 14 year old URGENT | 8/30/2008 |
Q: My daughter had braces for over 3 years to straighten slightly crooked teeth. I noticed one tooth ...
A: I cannot tell if the tooth is decayed or if the nerve inside it is dead and darkening the tooth. If ...
|
| Mandible fracture (titanium plating-angle) | 8/23/2008 |
Q: I got operated on my mouth( mandible fracture)and the doctor had fixed the titatium plate inside my ...
A: I can only guess at when you will be completely better. The usual time is 6-24 weeks. But I don't ...
|
| toothe ache under bridge | 8/23/2008 |
Q: "Have had an ongoing problem since June with the area under my bridge (back of mouth molars) it had ...
A: If the bridge is relatively new, it may be that the replacement tooth is compressing your gum to ...
|
| Underbite | 8/19/2008 |
Q: I am a fourteen year old female and i have a severe underbite. I have been looking for orthodontists ...
A: Because I cannot see you or your xrays, I cannot render a professional opinion about your case. ...
|
| Wisdom teeth removal | 8/19/2008 |
Q: I just got my wisdom teeth removed Fri of this week. I still have pain and throbbing in my gums. ...
A: Depending on how difficult your case was, some oozing of blood is to be expected. You need to ...
|
| Erroneous estimate | 8/19/2008 |
Q: My girlfriend recently had some bridge work done for which she received a written estimate of a $404 ...
A: It is up to your dentist to make it clear that what he provides you is just an estimate. Your ...
|
| unhappy veneers | 8/18/2008 |
Q: Finnk, I also have the same problem about being very unhappy with my veneers. I'm not happy with ...
A: You can have them removed, but I don't know how the faces of your teeth were prepared. You may ...
|
| prolonged numbness after tooth extraction | 8/18/2008 |
Q: I have 2 bottom tooth extractions (one left and one on right side) and it has been 3 months, i still ...
A: As with any post-operative complication, you and your insurance should be paying for it. Although ...
|
| whiteners | 8/18/2008 |
Q: Is there an over the counter whitening gel you would recommend? I have a mold of my teeth that was ...
A: I know of no OTC whiteners that are made to be placed in your trays. You can start with Crest ...
|
| Bridge work done , inflamation-puss and margin line | 8/17/2008 |
Q: I recently had a 5 teeth bridge done at the schoool of dentistry i nPuerto Rico. The work was ...
A: I can't be sure, but your gums do look like the margins (edges) of the crowns were placed too deeply ...
|
| teeth extraction and infection? | 8/17/2008 |
Q: I had all 4 of my wisdom teeth removed Monday (6 days ago). The initial recovery was fine and I was ...
A: You are probably right. This sounds like infection has set in secondary to the removal of your ...
|
| X-rays | 8/17/2008 |
Q: Dr. Finnk, I am a dental assistant but I work for an endodontist. I recently started seeing a ...
A: In our practices we provide all of our new adult patients with what is the standard of dental here ...
|
| prolonged numbness after tooth extraction | 8/17/2008 |
Q: I have 2 bottom tooth extractions (one left and one on right side) and it has been 3 months, i still ...
A: This is not normal, but is known to be a risk of tooth extraction. It happens less than 1% of the ...
|
| soars on lips from biting | 8/17/2008 |
Q: About a month ago I got 3 of my wisdom teeth removed. I still have numbness on the bottom right side ...
A: See your dentist immediately. If he doesn't have a solution, have him refer you to an oral surgeon. ...
|
| gray secondary teeth in a 6 year old | 8/17/2008 |
Q: my 6 year old lost her bottom 2 front teeth 3 months ago. Her primary teeth were all normal color ...
A: It looks like the gray is just her natural tooth color. Most permanent teeth are darker in color ...
|
| early tooth loss | 8/16/2008 |
Q: My son will be 4 years old in 2 weeks and he has lost three of his baby teeth already. Two on top ...
A: I don't know what made your dentist suspect a systemic disorder. It sounds to me like your son is ...
|
| Pain in maxilla - Upper Jaw | 8/16/2008 |
Q: hope you are doing good. Since last 2-3 days , some parts of maxilla in upper jaw are swollen (I can ...
A: Hot food can burn your gums. This often blisters after a day or so, just like a skin burn. The ...
|
| Composite Fillings | 8/16/2008 |
Q: I recently had 3 silver fillings replaced with the composite fillings. Two on the upper right and ...
A: It is possible to polish fillings down too much, exposing dentin under your enamel, which could add ...
|
| Medicaid Dentures | 8/7/2008 |
Q: my brother inlaw is 35 and medically needs dentures. He has went to three different dentist ...
A: I'm not so sure that your brother-in-law is being honest with you. Assuming that he tells them that ...
|
| Maryland Bridge | 8/6/2008 |
Q: I have a 14 y.o. daughter who has root resorption from orthodontia in tooth #7. I've been told ...
A: If your daughter has no symptoms, and the tooth is not loose, postpone its removal, unless infection ...
|
| Maryland Bridge | 8/6/2008 |
Q: I have a 14 y.o. daughter who has root resorption from orthodontia in tooth #7. I've been told ...
A: To answer your question, I consider all Maryland Bridges temporary. You should ask your dentist ...
|
| Lumps in the roof of my mouth | 8/6/2008 |
Q: I get get small lumps in the roof of my mouth, sometimes these break open and a small white colored ...
A: I suspect that you are developing tiny calcifications in your minor salivary glands that line your ...
|
| Numbness after wisdom tooth extraction | 8/5/2008 |
Q: about four days ago I had all four of my wisdom teeth removed. From the X-Ray, it appeared that both ...
A: When a tooth is removed that is near a major nerve, it is likely that the inflammation that follows ...
|
| extraction of one tooth | 8/5/2008 |
Q: could it be possible having one far back tooth removed cause a slight sunken cheek?
A: While anything could be possible, it is highly unlikely that the removal of one far back tooth would ...
|
| Pain in tooth and jaw post-filling | 8/5/2008 |
Q: I had three cavities filled ten days ago, and since then I've had a sharp pain when I bite down on ...
A: The nerve inside this tooth is likely more inflamed than your dentist thought it would be. This ...
|
| Alveoplasty how do I know is was done? | 8/4/2008 |
Q: I had all my teeth pulled in April and I was told by the oral surgeon that he was not going to do ...
A: If the surgeon told you that he was not going to do the alveoloplasty, then you can confirm with him ...
|
| Evaluation | 8/4/2008 |
Q: I am going to an oral surgeon to get my mouth evaluated. I had a 4 quadrant alveoplasty done by a ...
A: You can ask the surgeon what you asked me. The surgeon will likely be honest with you. It may be ...
|
| Child's teeth | 8/4/2008 |
Q: My son teeth came in with a brownish yellow discoloration. I didn't think too much about it. I ...
A: I don't know what to think, as I have not seen your son, his teeth, or his xrays. However, it might ...
|
| exposed sinus | 8/4/2008 |
Q: I recently had a upper tooth pulled. the dentist said that it left my sinus cavity exposed. he did ...
A: First, you should have been advised not to smoke, blow your nose or sneeze. If after a week, you ...
|
| Dental Implant costs | 8/4/2008 |
Q: I've had an infected tooth that I wanted to have an implant to replace. I found a doctor that I was ...
A: If you are replacing only one tooth, the fees seem a bit high. In our offices, we charge about $200 ...
|
| absess for over 5 years.. | 8/4/2008 |
Q: I've had an absess on my front 2 teeth for over 5 years, I can continuosly 15-20 a day push puss out ...
A: Yes, people have died from tooth infection. In the U.S. this happens about once or twice a year. ...
|
| need guidence | 8/4/2008 |
Q: I have a 43yr old dissabled daughter who has only SSI medicare. very low income. She is in DIRE ...
A: Contact a dental college near you (google "dental colleges, Arizona"). They should have a facility ...
|
| Jaw Strain from Dentist? | 8/3/2008 |
Q: My story begins a couple of months ago: I had some minor fillings (not deep) replaced. They are ...
A: It is likely that your jaw was strained by all the movement and testing. Continue taking tha ...
|
| Replacing Gold Crown | 8/3/2008 |
Q: I have been told that I need to Replace a Old Crown.Since I am in the Woods of MO. there is no ...
A: Chances are very slight that this tooth will be broken during crown removal. A root canal might ...
|
| Alveoplasty | 8/2/2008 |
Q: I had a 4 quadrant alveoplasty when I had my teeth extracted. I currently have 4 areas where it ...
A: Alveoloplasty is done to smooth and/or reshape the bone under the gum on which dentures will be ...
|
| Root canals | 8/2/2008 |
Q: my husband is scheduled for a root canal and when he went in for his consultation he was told he ...
A: The rubber dam isolates the tooth from the rest of the mouth for cleanliness, sterility and control ...
|
| Tooth Pain | 8/1/2008 |
Q: Howard, I have been experiencing tooth pain in my lower four front teeth for a year. The pain is ...
A: If you are feeling pain in your lower front teeth, it is likely that one or more tooth nerves are ...
|
| Pregnancy and Silver Filling removal | 7/27/2008 |
Q: I had 4 old silver fillings removed (decent in size) because I know there is questionable ...
A: At this time, do nothing. You have already had the silver fillings removed. During the process of ...
|
| gum care | 7/19/2008 |
Q: Finnk, My husband has had laser surgery (LANAP) to correct 6,7 & 8 pockets on one quadrant of his ...
A: My instructions are that you brush after breakfast, but before you leave the house, and brush again ...
|
| hi | 7/12/2008 |
Q: this is my question to a previous dentist my jaw popped today i dont feel pain but when i open my ...
A: I can't tell you if having your wisdom tooth removed caused your tmd. I didn't examine you before ...
|
| conflicting x-rays? | 7/12/2008 |
Q: Finnk: I am 31 years old. When I first started seeing my dentist many months ago, he told me that ...
A: I honestly cannot tell if they are pointing toward the inside or outside of your mouth, as an xray ...
|
| hi | 7/12/2008 |
Q: this is my question to a previous dentist my jaw popped today i dont feel pain but when i open my ...
A: I'm sorry, but you are making no sense. You start with the premise that your jaw popped some time ...
|
| Crown for implant | 7/12/2008 |
Q: I got an implant about a year and a half ago because I was missing one of my incisors. I told the ...
A: Some people have upper central incisors that have unusual shades. Yours sounds unusually white. ...
|
| loss of sensation in one side of face | 7/11/2008 |
Q: Three weeks ago I had a filling put into a tooth that had broken in half, lower left, the third ...
A: You probably have either an infection or inflammation from the injection which is effecting the ...
|
| hi | 7/11/2008 |
Q: this is my question to a previous dentist my jaw popped today i dont feel pain but when i open my ...
A: To answer yourSurgery is the very LAST resort for TMD. It sounds like you dislocated the meniscus ...
|
| Continue treatment in another state. | 7/6/2008 |
Q: Is it possible to start a braces treatment in Maryland and continue the treatment in Georgia? I'm ...
A: Yes it is possible. But seeing that braces treatments usually run for 2 years or longer, it would ...
|
| Jaw Pain | 7/5/2008 |
Q: My father has jaw pain that shoots up through his ear to his head when he eats anything cold or hot. ...
A: What he has is called "pulpitis", or the dental version of neuritis, but in a tooth. The nerve is ...
|
| root canal | 6/28/2008 |
Q: I started to feel nerve pain in my tooth around the end of april. An abscess started to form about ...
A: The root canal should have been done, or at least begun, back when the abscess started to form ...
|
| eye tooth | 6/28/2008 |
Q: My left eye tooth grew on the roof of my mouth and was removed when I was 14. When I was 23 I had ...
A: From top to bottom, in my estimation: 1. Implant and crown. If this is your choice, find someone ...
|
| teeth whitening | 6/27/2008 |
Q: My teen-aged daughter has a large white spot on each of her 2 upper front teeth. She would like to ...
A: Have her teeth whitened using dentist-made custom bleaching trays with dentist-strength bleach. ...
|
| Tooth Pain | 6/15/2008 |
Q: Finnk, About a week and a half ago I had an old, fairly large, amalgam filling replaced with a new ...
A: I'm surprised that you can see where the filling ends. usually, the white fillings match the teeth ...
|
| teeth sensitive to cool water | 6/15/2008 |
Q: I think one or two of my upper-left molar(s) are a little bit sensitive to cool water. I found out ...
A: This is related to your pulp. Also related to gingival recession and bruxism. May be tooth decay. ...
|
| FACIAL PAIN AFTER DENTAL RESTORATION OF A MOLAR | 6/14/2008 |
Q: , I HAD A CRACKED MOLAR THE NEXT TO THE LAST ON THE LOWER LEFT SIDE. I HAD IT REPAIRED WITH A ...
A: Based on your recent dental history, and your long-term pain which began immediately following ...
|
| 39 year old black line | 6/8/2008 |
Q: Dr Fink, Hello, I am a 39 year old white female, who has lived with a black line running across the ...
A: Yes. My suggestions, in order: First, most conservative and least expensive is bleaching. About ...
|
| my son fell & hurt his front upper tooth | 5/31/2008 |
Q: My 3 year old son fell last night and hurt his upper front tooth. It looked okay except for a tiny ...
A: There could be damage you can't see. But children tend to heal from their injuries quickly and ...
|
| Crown buildup | 5/30/2008 |
Q: I have had 2 crowns put on over the last few years at the same dental office but by different ...
A: The only reason you don't get a satisfactory answer, is that no one at your dental office has one. ...
|
| tooth extraction problems | 5/25/2008 |
Q: I had all my teeth pulled 5 weeks ago. I have immediate dentures which will need to be relined in a ...
A: What you describe is not "normal", but I've had cases like yours several times in my 35 years as a ...
|
| pain in tooth where crown was cleaned in cleaning | 5/25/2008 |
Q: Why is there pain in the tooth were I had a general cleaning around my crown
A: This is a very good question. However, my vision is clouded by the physical distance between us. ...
|
| loose tooth | 5/16/2008 |
Q: My son was hit by a baseball.His tooth is a little bit loose and the gums around it look a little ...
A: If the tooth looks like it's in good position, and if it is not extruded, so that it is not hitting ...
|
| whitening despite periodontal disease | 5/16/2008 |
Q: Finnk, My husband had root planing and scraping one month ago, and seems to be healing ...
A: Your question about whitening should be directed at the dentist who provided the root planing and ...
|
| 6 MONTH CHECK-UP | 5/3/2008 |
Q: I was wondering would you please tell me: why whenever I have to go to the dentist for my six month ...
A: Yes. This happens because you, like most of us, are a bit nervous going to the dentist. This has ...
|
| Dull ache across many teeth | 5/3/2008 |
Q: About nine months ago I foolishly let a factory-style dentist replace amalgam fillings with resin in ...
A: I would start with another general dentist. Again, one you can trust. Ask your neighbors, your ...
|
| Dull ache across many teeth | 5/3/2008 |
Q: About nine months ago I foolishly let a factory-style dentist replace amalgam fillings with resin in ...
A: Your first move is to contact the dentist who provided the care about which you are complaining. If ...
|
| 2 year old lost 2 teeth | 4/25/2008 |
Q: Last night, my 2 year old son took a nose dive on a flight of stairs and lost two of his ...
A: Don't worry about. Go and see the pediatric dentist. Although the premature loss of the lower ...
|
| molar question | 4/19/2008 |
Q: I may lose one or two back lower molars (the last molars in back). How important are those back ...
A: Last two molars do much of your chewing. You'll probably get along without them ok. But over time, ...
|
| Fillings | 4/19/2008 |
Q: I went to a new dentist today to have a crown put on teeth that recently had root canal performed. ...
A: I know of no silver filling that does not contain mercury. There was an amalgam-colored filling ...
|
| front teeth cavaties question | 4/18/2008 |
Q: When they numb the front teeth area, won't the person have trouble breathing because when they numb ...
A: Yes. But what you describe doesn't happen often when we numb front teeth. And when it does, most ...
|
| follow-up to your response ,thank you. | 4/12/2008 |
Q: On March 11,2008 I put on my first set of invisalign trays. Within the first 44 hours my upper lip ...
A: Do you really believe that, because you might have had a reaction to some material, that no one ...
|
| 5 yr old pushed her teeth up into her gums | 4/11/2008 |
Q: My overactive 5 yr old fell while playing and hit the carpeted floor flat on her face - hard, Her ...
A: Assuming that your child has calmed down, and is comfortable, these teeth are likely safe until you ...
|
| Intense pain stars after I get fillings and a crown... | 4/11/2008 |
Q: A month ago I went to the dentist to have several fillings in my upper right area as well as a crown ...
A: Sorry to hear about your pains. It sounds like the temporary crown was in hyperocclusion, or "high" ...
|
| Bad experience so far with crowns | 4/11/2008 |
Q: Finnk, We are at our wits' end. My fiance is getting extensive work done for a cost of over ...
A: You should have as much time as you need, within reason. In our office, the patient and we usually ...
|
| Dental Crown | 4/11/2008 |
Q: I had a root canal a few days ago and need a dental crown. Is this the only smart option or do they ...
A: Without seeing your tooth, I can't say. I will say that about 90% of teeth that have had root ...
|
| still having milktooth | 4/11/2008 |
Q: i am 25 years old i still have two milk canines and permanent canines inside the gums and inclined. ...
A: Without looking at you and your xrays, I can't tell you what can be done. Usually, if your ...
|
| Front Bridge | 4/5/2008 |
Q: I have several questions regarding a difficult situation that I'm in right now. Last February I ...
A: I have had your experience myself, from the dentist's side. I was fortunate enough to have a ...
|
| ceric or crown? | 4/5/2008 |
Q: Pain while chewing led to discovery of a "large" leaking filling and a crack on furthest back upper ...
A: Cerec is a type of crown. Crowns can be made of gold, silver, titanium, steel. Or they can be made ...
|
| healing time for molar extraction | 4/5/2008 |
Q: i had 2 molars out 3 days ago,the molars were next to each other on my lower right jaw.The blood ...
A: This sounds more like infection than healing. Depends on where on the gum is turning white. I ...
|
| removal or root canal and crown | 4/5/2008 |
Q: My rear molar, right side bottom needs to have root canal and crown or be pulled. If pulled, will it ...
A: Your teeth will likely shift and move after the extraction. I've been a dentist for 35 years, so my ...
|
| healing time for molar extraction | 4/4/2008 |
Q: i had 2 molars out 3 days ago,the molars were next to each other on my lower right jaw.The blood ...
A: Except for the swelling and pain, what you describe sounds like reasonably normal healing. The pain ...
|
| My inner cheek is swollen near my wisdom | 4/4/2008 |
Q: My inner cheek is swollen near my wisdom tooth on the bottom left side, It hurts severly. I dont ...
A: It sounds like you have pericoronitis, or infection around your wisdom tooth. Usually, we remove ...
|
| bruising in mouth | 3/28/2008 |
Q: well they were having some trouble getting me numb so i ended up getting multiple shots. i now have ...
A: This is not normal, but it is not unheard of. The more shots you get, the more chance there is to ...
|
| Teeth feel rough after resin fillings | 3/22/2008 |
Q: I had "borderline cavities" on the chewing surfaces of my back upper left teeth. There was decay on ...
A: Sometimes, adjusting resin fillings can make them feel rough. If the roughness doesn't go away ...
|
| Is it ok to brush without paste or does it scratch the enamel surface. | 3/22/2008 |
Q: Im just too lazy to brush in the mornin. I brush at night. This is India . We dont brush twice a ...
A: It is ok to brush only at night, assuming that you brush thoroughly. It is ok to brush without ...
|
| tooth | 3/22/2008 |
Q: im only 23 and i have habit of putting things in my mouth water bottle lids etc and it so happens ...
A: This is probably from your chewing on things that cause damage to your teeth. In addition, it is ...
|
| Very painful lump on my gum that swells up and goes back down, I can see bone. | 3/21/2008 |
Q: I have a lump that appeared suddenly that swells up and gets painful and sometimes don't hurt at ...
A: You have an abscess, and you need to find a way to see a dentist who will take care of your ...
|
| my dautghters veneers | 3/21/2008 |
Q: Dr. Finnk, Several years ago my daughter severely chipped her two front teeth, hitting her mouth on ...
A: Now I know why bonding wouldn't last. Rarely do my bondings on the front teeth of kids fall off ...
|
| gums | 3/21/2008 |
Q: I have sensitive gums on the inside of my bottom set. I also sometimes get a tingling feeling, just ...
A: I'm not sure. If you are wearing dentures, what you describe sounds like pressure sores from the ...
|
| "invisalign" systemic allergic reactions | 3/17/2008 |
Q: On March 11,2008 I put on my first set of invisalign trays. Within the first 44 hours my upper lip ...
A: I know nothing. If true, yours is the first allergic reaction to Invisalign that I've heard of. If ...
|
| Question regarding tongue | 3/8/2008 |
Q: On the side of my tongue I've noticed a white line(patch?) that extends for about an inch or so. It ...
A: Glad you sent the picture. I don't like the look of the lesion. If it has been there for a long ...
|
| dead tooth | 3/1/2008 |
Q: brown colour but had no pain. I had a veneer 4 years ago which got a infection so had to have root ...
A: There is no known allergy to root canals, although there are rare reports of allergic reaction to ...
|
| 2nd molar removal and dental implant | 2/29/2008 |
Q: I have had 3 of my 2nd molars removed and have had peridontal surgery. The molar I have left is ...
A: It is wise if you plan on keeping your one remaining second molar long-term. On the other hand, if ...
|
| Root canal? | 2/29/2008 |
Q: Finnk, It has been about three months since I had a deep filling done on my bottom molar, but I ...
A: The answer is I don't know. Classically, your symptoms would call for a root canal. However, there ...
|
| baby tooth that appears to be split | 2/29/2008 |
Q: My daughter has 2 bottom teeth (she is 12 months old), and one of them appears to have a split in ...
A: This is not normal. I don't think it's anything to worry about. I don't think her permanent teeth ...
|
| Debriment | 2/29/2008 |
Q: I recently relocated to Florida and obviously sought out a new dentist. Much to my surprise when I ...
A: Because I did not look at your teeth, I cannot tell you if this was really necessary. Your dentist ...
|
| Anterior crowns feel rippled | 2/29/2008 |
Q: I just had 6 crowns placed yesterday (anteriors) and am very unhappy with them. The surface of the ...
A: I can't believe that you would allow these crowns to be placed before you had a look and a feel and ...
|
| no insurance/no money | 2/23/2008 |
Q: I know someone who has been in pain with her teeth for several years and has seen many dentists in ...
A: After savings, there is her bank. She can obtain a loan for dental care. If not, then look for a ...
|
| tooth grinding | 2/22/2008 |
Q: I know you probably won't be able to give me an exact answer, but an idea would be good. I have ...
A: I have a great deal of understanding of the clenching person, as my son is one. The simplest thing ...
|
| Sore gums | 2/16/2008 |
Q: I had a lower molar and wisdom tooth right next to each other extracted at the same time about 2 ...
A: It's not normal. I don't know what's going on. It's likely that a stray bone chip is trying to ...
|
| root canal mishap | 2/10/2008 |
Q: Finnk, 2 weeks ago I got a root canal done on tooth 27 , it went fine, I made the soonest ...
A: You knew that the tooth was already weak. You knew that you waited so long to take care of it that ...
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| sore tooth | 2/10/2008 |
Q: I was playing with my son lastnight and he ended up ramming his head into my front tooth and he got ...
A: The sensitivity will probably go away in a few days. The secret is to stay away from the tooth. ...
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| Lump on Palate | 2/10/2008 |
Q: About 2 weeks ago i noticed a change in my mouth. My dad is a dental technician and works at a ...
A: It's just an overgrowth of bone, much like a bunyan on a foot. There are several places that these ...
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| Lump on Palate | 2/10/2008 |
Q: About 2 weeks ago i noticed a change in my mouth. My dad is a dental technician and works at a ...
A: Without seeing the lump, feeling the lump and taking an xray, of course I cannot render an opinion. ...
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| cosmetic dentistry | 2/9/2008 |
Q: I had 8 veneers on my upper teeth 2 months ago. Unfortunately, 1 broke right at the appointment so ...
A: You're learning the hard way what I've learned over the years. Veneers will be successful (last a ...
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| root canal pain!!! | 2/9/2008 |
Q: i had a post placed in tooth after root canal was done on tuesday. it i now friday night and i am ...
A: I'm afraid I can't help. Several things might be in play, and without examining you and your tooth, ...
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| numbness after wisdom tooth extraction | 2/8/2008 |
Q: I had 2 of my wisdom teeth extracted,1- upper and 1- lower on the left side, on January 3, 2008. The ...
A: The mandibular nerve emanates from the trigeminal ganglion, just below your skull, enters the ...
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| numbness after wisdom tooth extraction | 2/8/2008 |
Q: I had 2 of my wisdom teeth extracted,1- upper and 1- lower on the left side, on January 3, 2008. The ...
A: I hope you received the answer to my question. If not, what I said was that prolonged numbness is ...
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| numbness after wisdom tooth extraction | 2/8/2008 |
Q: I had 2 of my wisdom teeth extracted,1- upper and 1- lower on the left side, on January 3, 2008. The ...
A: I doubt dry socket. Prolonged numbness after extraction is an uncommon side-effect of tooth ...
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| facial swelling.... | 2/8/2008 |
Q: Good day..I recently,2 days ago 1 1/2 actually had 10 teeth pulled and a full upper plate put ...
A: About the swelling: Imagine you fell off a ladder, hit your face, and lost your six front teeth. ...
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| facial swelling.... | 2/8/2008 |
Q: Good day..I recently,2 days ago 1 1/2 actually had 10 teeth pulled and a full upper plate put ...
A: Sorry to hear you had to lose your teeth. I don't like salt water rinsing. It tastes bad, and ...
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| Dental Implants | 2/1/2008 |
Q: Fink: I read your answerto a patient who had a similar problem to my own, I have advanced ...
A: I would be honored to see you at our office in Dania Beach. I find it disturbing that your teeth ...
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| novacaine | 1/27/2008 |
Q: This is the second request for this question. I would like to know the side effects of novacaine. ...
A: Although still available, Novacaine is not much used by dentists anymore. The local anesthetic most ...
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| Lower jaw pain | 1/26/2008 |
Q: Had upper tooth extracted 10 weeks sago lower jaw seemed to crack at the same time, from then on ...
A: After this amount of time, I am concerned that a portion of your jaw might be fractured, or you ...
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| Tonge Pain | 1/18/2008 |
Q: and anyone else who can help. About a month ago, I was at my Dentist and he noticed white lines on ...
A: This is a rough question, as I cannot see your tongue. But based on your history, I would first ...
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| Severe Dental and Jaw Problems | 1/11/2008 |
Q: Finnk, Im 22 years of age from Los Angeles,CA. My question today is regarding my dental structure ...
A: If you do have a jaw underbite, the only correction for this is jaw surgery, which would move your ...
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| I have had a crown for about five years now... | 1/11/2008 |
Q: I am now a 16 year old teenage girl and I still have the silver crowns on my back moloars (one on ...
A: If you were my patient, I would recommend that, if the teeth underneath the crowns are healthy, you ...
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| When is there not enough tooth to cap | 1/5/2008 |
Q: Dr. Finnk I have two molars in the lower right back that had root canals a wile ago and the ...
A: Most likely the teeth can be capped. Although I do not know the extent of the decay, or if the ...
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| My 2yr old just fell & broke her tooth! | 1/5/2008 |
Q: My two year old daught had gotten caught up in her little rocking chair while trying to get up, and ...
A: Your daughter is going to be ok. I don't know what happened with her tooth. It may have been pushed ...
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| brown teeth | 12/31/2007 |
Q: About a year ago, for some reason, I looked with a mirror at the back of my teeth. And I was really ...
A: I really can't tell if your teeth are rotting. I would have to see and feel them However, don't be ...
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| black spot on tooth | 12/30/2007 |
Q: I noticed a black spot on my tooth near my gumline. I am not sure if it is decay or tartar. I ...
A: Most likely, the black spot is a cavity. It could be a piece of tartar or calcium deposit. If you ...
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| Gumline Graft | 12/30/2007 |
Q: I'm 19 years old, to give you some info about my age, if that is relevant. Anyway, about six months ...
A: I don't know what brushing normal is for you, or what a normal toothbrush is for you. Brush no more ...
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| Gumline Graft | 12/29/2007 |
Q: I'm 19 years old, to give you some info about my age, if that is relevant. Anyway, about six months ...
A: I can't imagine why you would need a gumline graft at age 19. What are you doing... Brushing with ...
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| Lower Second Molar Abcsess | 12/29/2007 |
Q: I have been in MAJOR pain since Chirstmas eve, have been to primary Dr. twice and have been on ...
A: You must find a dentist who is IN. See that dentist immediately. If you cannot find a dentist who ...
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| Back top my left tooth | 12/28/2007 |
Q: My dentist tells me that i have another cavity on the tooth. (I had it filled once before.). I know ...
A: I don't know why your dentist wants to take out your tooth with the cavity. I don't know why it ...
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| Brown Gunk from Hole in Gum | 12/24/2007 |
Q: Dr. Fink, I'll try my best to describe my story as short and best as possible. I got my top ...
A: It may be that a small window opened from your healing socket to your maxillary sinus. This would ...
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| Action after braces removal | 12/23/2007 |
Q: I just had my braces taken off on my top teeth. The orthodontist shaved my two front teeth down to ...
A: First: Stop going crazy. Your answers: 1. Yes, orthodontists do shave teeth, usually to make final ...
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| Proxy Brush vs. Flossing | 12/16/2007 |
Q: I have recently begun using a proxy brush, and I am very happy with the ease of use and the results ...
A: I recommend the use of proxibrush over flossing, where the brush can be used. If you have ...
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| pain after composite filling in molar | 12/15/2007 |
Q: I had a mouthful of silver fillings which have been cracking over the years, and I have been having ...
A: You tooth is likely still a bit high in your bite. And it has gone through some trauma as a result ...
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| metallic taste in the mouth | 12/8/2007 |
Q: I have had a terrible metallic taste in my mouth for 2 1/2 months. It started out with my tongue ...
A: At this point, I don't know what might be causing the metallic taste. Usually metallic taste comes ...
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| pain+pain+pain | 12/1/2007 |
Q: I have swelling in the bottom left of my back teeth.it's red, and I've been taking Tylenol for it ...
A: See a doctor. You have a severe, acute infection in or around your tooth. This must be taken care ...
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| broken front teeth | 11/30/2007 |
Q: My 13 yr old step daughter broke 2/3 rds off her 2 front teeth. The dentist managed to glue the ...
A: I've made buildups of teeth with very little tooth left. They usually last longer than I expect ...
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| broken front teeth | 11/30/2007 |
Q: My 13 yr old step daughter broke 2/3 rds off her 2 front teeth. The dentist managed to glue the ...
A: Without seeing the broken teeth, I cannot be sure. But I rarely do crowns on 13 year olds. Her ...
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| wisdom tooth problem | 11/30/2007 |
Q: am having problems with my wisdom tooth. I wore braces when I was 16 (am now 28), did extract 4 of ...
A: You must see your dentist as soon as possible. There is likely infection in the gums around your ...
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| Abutment placed in Jan | 11/23/2007 |
Q: Finnk: You have been VERY kind and helpful across many months as I've gone through an implant ...
A: You can rest assured that your implant has taken, and that 4 months is enough time. If your surgeon ...
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| My 12 year old molars | 11/23/2007 |
Q: I am 20 years old and my 12 year old molars are about half down coming through. On my left bottom ...
A: Most likely, your 12 year molars came in around when you were 12, and they are doing just fine. I ...
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| lumineers | 11/16/2007 |
Q: My teeth have started to decay in the last 6 yrs of my life. I'm 20. Its not awful, but its not a ...
A: Congratulations. Lumineers, done properly, on the appropriate patients, can be beautiful things. ...
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| Teeth Horrors | 11/15/2007 |
Q: I'm having a horrifying time with my teeth. I suspect my previous dentist of destroying them too. I ...
A: Your situation is incredibly complex, and without a thorough examination, xrays, and interview, I ...
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| Wisdom Teeth | 11/15/2007 |
Q: I have all of my wisdom in my mouth. They grew in just fine because I had some teeth pulled as a ...
A: These are questions you should be asking your dentist or surgeon. First, if it's only a cavity in ...
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| Flouride | 11/10/2007 |
Q: My Son who is 5 had a dental cleaning in March of this year and was given fluoride during this ...
A: At one time, fluoride was given at every 6-month checkup. Dental plans used to cover this, as it ...
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| Daughter Has Too Many Molars. | 11/4/2007 |
Q: My 6-year-old daughter has a total of 24 teeth. It seems she has extra molars in the back. Would ...
A: Without seeing your daughter and counting her teeth, I can't say for sure. But what you are seeing ...
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| tooth filing | 10/21/2007 |
Q: Is there a such procedure as filing down teeth that are too pointy?
A: Although I don't know what "down" teeth are, I can tell you that there is much creative work that ...
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| Pain in the socket and white patches | 10/13/2007 |
Q: I was told to get root canal done because of pain in the gums. I felt no better after it was done ...
A: A tooth extraction is a surgical procedure which leaves a hole in your jawbone for several days ...
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| Numb tougue surface | 10/12/2007 |
Q: Two week ago, I went to dentist to try my night guard. But from second day's morning, I had some ...
A: Most likely your tongue is playing with the edge of the mouthguare. Second most is that you may ...
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| Porcelain veneers | 10/6/2007 |
Q: I had porcelain caps applied to my front teeth over a year ago, and have found they have ...
A: If the porcelain has truly yellowed over time, and the discoloration cannot easily be polished away, ...
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| my sons teeth | 10/6/2007 |
Q: my name is Stephanie. I have a three year old son that I took to the dentist for the first time on ...
A: If his teeth are decayed, the decay will progress to cause infections in his gums. If he loses ...
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| Veneer recommendation. | 10/5/2007 |
Q: I have upper dentures which I will be replacing very soon. I have had full dentures for about 30 or ...
A: I certainly would not guarantee your happiness with anything I do. I will guarantee your ...
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| sore gums | 9/22/2007 |
Q: I had my top teeth extracted two years ago. Although I am saving for dentures, it will be another 18 ...
A: I'm sorry if I misunderstood the question. There are antiseptic rinses that you can buy that may ...
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| crown "build-up" | 9/22/2007 |
Q: Sir, I recently started treatment for many years of dental neglect. The reasons for the many years ...
A: Not wrong. You feel screwed. Reason was that, while you were prepared to pay $700.00, your actual ...
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| sore gums | 9/21/2007 |
Q: I had my top teeth extracted two years ago. Although I am saving for dentures, it will be another 18 ...
A: You're not telling me that you're walking around toothless, are you? Oh, my... You are. I'm afraid ...
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| infant underbite question | 9/21/2007 |
Q: is there anything that we can do at home or in an office to help prevent anymore of an underbite. ...
A: At 11 months, I wouldn't worry about what might appear to be an underbite. While it may be true ...
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| Crown & Post | 9/21/2007 |
Q: My husband had a root canal, post & crown done on an eye tooth. Well it broke tonight, the crown ...
A: The answer to your question depends on how close to, or how far under the gum the tooth broke. To ...
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| receding gums. | 9/15/2007 |
Q: Mr. Finnk, I am 18 yrs and recently noticed that my gums are receding on both top and bottom. I ...
A: First, of course, you must see your dentist as soon as possible. Bleeding and receding gums are ...
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| discomfort & swelling after dental work | 9/15/2007 |
Q: A couple days ago I had an old decayed filling on my left lower side drilled and prepped for a ...
A: I hesitate to differ with your dentist, but it sounds like some type of infection was introduced ...
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| biting mouth/cheek lining | 9/15/2007 |
Q: When I'm eating and chewing food, I often accidentally bite the lining of my mouth or cheek. It's ...
A: Most of us have had your cheek-biting experiences more than once in our lives. I certainly have, ...
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| root canal problems | 9/14/2007 |
Q: I am having problems with a tooth that needs a root canal. The dentist has tried twice but ...
A: If you are experiencing pain, it is ok to ask your dentist for more pain management. If you can ...
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| Root canal necessary? | 9/13/2007 |
Q: I went to my dentist yesterday for what was supposed to be a filling in tooth #4. Half way through ...
A: We can't always see the complete extent of the decay until we open into the tooth. Often a cavity ...
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| TOOTHPASTE | 9/12/2007 |
Q: My question is what brand toothpaste does most dentists recommend? Also which toothbrush? ...
A: Toothpastes: Crest or Colgate Total. Toothbrush: I can't speak for most dentists, but I recommend ...
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| Irrigation | 9/12/2007 |
Q: Is "irrigation" absolutely necessary during a deep cleaning? My dentist is pushing it, but it isn't ...
A: We provide irrigation with all our deep cleanings. This provides disinfection beneath the gum, ...
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| jaw hurts | 9/11/2007 |
Q: I had a cavity filled last week, and ever since then my jaw has been aching/ throbbing really badly ...
A: It sounds like the nerve in the tooth is inflamed. If the pain is calming down slowly, wait a while ...
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| Root canal | 9/10/2007 |
Q: Is it normal for a root canal to have bleeding and pink matter??? Isn't it normally dead??? Should ...
A: Bleeding and pink sounds like a combination of infection and inflammation. Not dead yet. You should ...
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| Questions before Implant | 9/7/2007 |
Q: Finnk: I've written you before and you've been helpful. I am having an implant done - my first - on ...
A: Once again, I can give only general answers, as I have not examined you or your xrays. Your chances ...
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| root canal | 9/7/2007 |
Q: I was working with my dentist on a root canal. When he filled it originally, the pain go worse, an ...
A: None of what you describe is "normal". However, if you are not experiencing normal healing, then ...
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| unaesthetic bridge | 9/7/2007 |
Q: i've done bridge at my front teeth in private clinic.unfortunately the colour of the bridge did not ...
A: The first thing you need to do is discuss your dissatisfaction with your dentist. I'm sure your ...
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| * allexperts - teeth whitening | 9/2/2007 |
Q: What is the best over-the-counter teeth whitening toothpastes, strips, etc? Or anything else you ...
A: I have found that the best OTC whitening products are Aquafresh whitening toothpaste and Crest ...
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| wisdom teeth | 9/1/2007 |
Q: i am almost 6 months pregnant and have 4 impacted wisdom teeth and bleeding gums all of which is ...
A: First, clear with your Obstetrician, anything the dentist might do for you. In writing. Most OB's ...
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| Extraction/Implant | 8/14/2007 |
Q: PLEASE let me know if I made the right decision before, realizing you have not seen me - and am ...
A: I think the three months have passed this quickly because of our correspondence. You must speak to ...
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| Third Molars ( Wisdom Teeth ) | 8/14/2007 |
Q: I have a question for you about cosmetic effect of teeth extraction. My name is Kenny. Recently ...
A: In my 35 years of dental practice, I have yet to see one patient whose face has changed as a result ...
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| Jaw | 8/12/2007 |
Q: My jaw Locks all the time...and you know how your ment to place your bottom teeth behind your top ...
A: It sounds like you may have a clenching habit. Or maybe lots of gum chewing. Or both. This is ...
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| Extraction/Implant | 8/11/2007 |
Q: PLEASE let me know if I made the right decision before, realizing you have not seen me - and am ...
A: Matthew: I apologize. For some reason I thought you were replacing the #3 tooth (upper first ...
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| Wisdom teeth and facial appearance | 8/11/2007 |
Q: I have several question regarding wisdom teeth: Does wisdom teeth have any connection to your ...
A: I have not heard any of those rumors. It is conceiveable that, if enough jawbone must be removed to ...
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| Root Canal | 8/10/2007 |
Q: I had a root canal about 2 1/2 years ago, i had a temp. crown put on and was told would need to go ...
A: While you were waiting 21/2 years for the permanent crown, your temporary began leaking long before ...
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| wisdom teeth extractions | 8/10/2007 |
Q: I had all four of my wisdom teeth removed 5 days ago (by a oral surgeon) and whenever I attempt to ...
A: If your surgeon did not warn you: NO CHEWING ON THE HEALING EXTRACTION SITES. Tooth roots average ...
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| Extraction/Implant | 8/9/2007 |
Q: PLEASE let me know if I made the right decision before, realizing you have not seen me - and am ...
A: Matthew: I would wait 5-6 months after extraction before doing the implant. Bone density and ...
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| root canal | 8/9/2007 |
Q: Doctor i had a root canal done on my lower wisdom tooth(the last molar on that side) ,55 days ...
A: While it is true that wisdom teeth present with more complex root canal formations, root canals are ...
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| Deposit on teeth | 8/5/2007 |
Q: My name is Ivan, from Bulgaria, 25 years old. I started having a mild toothache of the bottom front ...
A: It sounds like you have a fairly severe infection spreading under your gums, which has now spread to ...
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| root canal & general dentistry | 8/4/2007 |
Q: My mom lost a filling a couple of months ago and jus in the past 2 weeks her pain has been extremely ...
A: The antibiotic your mother has been taking is not effective against her spreading infection. I ...
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| My Awful Dentures | 8/2/2007 |
Q: I had 6 teeth removed and had a denture put in two days ago. My problem is that I feel like I got ...
A: This denture needs to be adjusted until it is comfortable and looks good. If, after several weeks ...
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| Throat pain post extraction: | 8/2/2007 |
Q: My boyfriend had 4 wisdom teeth extracted yesterday. When we left the office he was complaining ...
A: He probably has some type of infection or inflammation spreading down his throat from the lower ...
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| crown | 8/1/2007 |
Q: Doctor i had a root canal done on my lower wisdom tooth ,46 days back.However the dentist put only a ...
A: Of all teeth, wisdom teeth have the highest failure rate, due to their more complex root canal ...
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| Bone Chip | 8/1/2007 |
Q: My 10 year old is getting what I assume are his 12 year old molars. On his bottom left, there has ...
A: I have never seen a bone chip come out of a 10-year-old's gum. However, I have seen small pieces of ...
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| whistle crown | 7/17/2007 |
Q: I just had a temp crown on on of my front teeth. ended up with a whistle when I speak. Dentist ...
A: What you describe is very rare. I've never had this experience, and I've treated several singers. ...
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| wisdom teeth | 7/17/2007 |
Q: my daughter had her lower wisdom tooth out 4 weeks ago and thre is still pain she had an infection ...
A: It is rare that the pain of lost wisdom teeth lasts much longer than a week. There may be several ...
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| Extraction/Implant | 7/17/2007 |
Q: PLEASE let me know if I made the right decision before, realizing you have not seen me - and am ...
A: It's a shame that your leaky crown has caused you to lose faith in dentists. I'm sure your dentist ...
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| Discolored lateral edges of upper back molars | 7/17/2007 |
Q: Dr. Finnk, I haven't been to a dentist in a while. As of my last apointment a few years ago I'd ...
A: I believe what you describe is calcium deposits on your teeth, known as "calculus" to us. These are ...
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| Gap Between Teeth #'s 14 & 15 | 7/16/2007 |
Q: Dr. Finnk, I have crowns on both of the teeth noted above which have also previously received RCT. ...
A: I have placed a filling into a crown to close a space that opened after the crown was placed. If ...
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| Fluoride damage | 7/16/2007 |
Q: My 20 yr old son went in to have his teeth cleaned/fluoride treatment a few weeks after having his ...
A: This is a very rare result of fluoride treatment. My guess is that this stain can be polished off. ...
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| Complete upper teeth extraction except for incisors | 7/16/2007 |
Q: I am 52 years old with a long history of periodontel problems and major bone loss. I live abroad and ...
A: I don't know what your dentist's overall plan is, but as I said before, I would remove all your ...
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| Wisdom tooth coming in | 7/14/2007 |
Q: One of my back wisdom teeth is coming in, and while it's slightly sore, it's not a huge deal. The ...
A: It most likely is your wisdom tooth coming in. There is very little you can do to stop it from ...
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| multiple root canals | 7/13/2007 |
Q: I am wondering if you may be able to point me in the right direction. I recently went to a new, ...
A: I doubt that both teeth were healthy before, assuming that your dentist was correct, and that there ...
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| Complete upper teeth extraction except for incisors | 7/12/2007 |
Q: I am 52 years old with a long history of periodontel problems and major bone loss. I live abroad and ...
A: I attempted to answer your question last night, and the site froze when I sent my answer. I hope I ...
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| Jaw locking after extraction | 7/11/2007 |
Q: I had a tooth extraction done by on oral surgeon almost two weeks ago. Since the removal of the ...
A: Your surgeon is incorrect. No gum chewing. What you describe is not normal. But it is a common ...
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| black tooth | 7/10/2007 |
Q: About 3 months ago, my 8 year old son's front tooth became loose. After being loose for weeks, it ...
A: The tooth will likely come in when it's ready, unless there is not sufficient space for it to come ...
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| Root Canals and Crowns | 7/9/2007 |
Q: I went to the dentist today and left a little confusedd. I went in today to get a root canal and i ...
A: Most teeth that are damaged badly enough to need root canals (usually because there is massive and ...
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| Glue for a dental device | 7/9/2007 |
Q: I am using a dental device to separate between my upper and lower jaw during the night. (I put this ...
A: The only material I know of that will repair your broken device for any length of time is acrylic. ...
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| Toddler Crowns | 6/29/2007 |
Q: My toddler had to have two crown teeth put on his front two teeth due to a nasty fall which damaged ...
A: The crown teeth will probably not lose their white in time. If this is a major concern to your ...
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| whiten other teeth before crown/veneer? | 6/28/2007 |
Q: My two front teeth are a little short due to some chips that were repaired, awhile ago. I recently ...
A: Technically, there are cosmetic issues with mixing a crown and a veneer (a very smart question), ...
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| Gummy Smile | 6/27/2007 |
Q: I have a very bad gummy smile and I am very self conscious about it. I would like to know what I can ...
A: I know of no such surgery, although there may well be one. Seeing an Oral-Maxillofacial surgeon, a ...
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| Gummy Smile | 6/27/2007 |
Q: I have a very bad gummy smile and I am very self conscious about it. I would like to know what I can ...
A: Correction of gummy smile would require either gum surgery to remove the visible part of the gum, or ...
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| Tooth knocked out of place | 6/23/2007 |
Q: One of my front teeth was knocked backwards 7 days ago and the root of the tooth went forward ...
A: Yes. Your tooth can be repositioned. However, when your dentist repositioned the tooth, the root ...
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| Amalgam or composite filling on last bottom | 6/8/2007 |
Q: i have started undergoing root canal treatment on my last lower molar in the left side(wisdom ...
A: Once I used only amalgam. Now I use only bonded composite core build-up material. It is ...
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| It scares me | 6/7/2007 |
Q: I get this pain directly under my tongue its a shooting pain it only lasts like 10 seconds out of ...
A: Pain in your tongue of unknown origin (you didn't bite your tongue recently, did you?) usually ...
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| Braces again? | 6/1/2007 |
Q: I had braces about 10 years ago. After all this time my teeth seem to be moving to its original ...
A: New retainers can be made to move your teeth back slightly. Then you must wear these or new ...
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| Teeth Whitening | 5/13/2007 |
Q: I'm a 22 year old female, I used to have really bright white teeth 4 years ago and got compliments ...
A: College stresses certainly can bring a dullness to your teeth, as you have proven. You can get your ...
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| my son | 5/12/2007 |
Q: my son is 9, he has a rotated front tooth so i took him to a orthodontist to straighten his teeth, ...
A: Expect that his face will be altered slightly for the better. I know your child is as handsome as ...
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| potentially painful dentures | 5/11/2007 |
Q: Finnk. I apologize in advance for the length of my query and appreciate your time. After not seeing ...
A: I am lost as to why, after what appears to be an alveoloplasty (a procedure to smooth your bone), ...
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| Adding to a tooth | 5/9/2007 |
Q: I have a good bite on one side of my mouth and the other side I would like my bicuspids to touch ...
A: Bonding will be worn down in time. As will your own teeth. What does that mean? Crowns will wear ...
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| pain in all lower teeth after back molar filled | 5/7/2007 |
Q: about 2 weeks ago I had a large cavity filled in my back right molar,my dentist said it would be ...
A: It could take weeks, months, or never get back to normal. Go back to the dentist and have him be ...
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| Crown Lengthening | 5/5/2007 |
Q: I have had RC's on teeth 14, 15. Gen, dentist has said go for CL with periodontist, he put posts ...
A: Sorry for all the confusion. Crown lengthening comes before tooth preparation. Your dentist is ...
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| lollipop | 5/3/2007 |
Q: I am 55 and have found a chocolate hard candy lollipop that I love. I have started eating one a day ...
A: Brushing after, chewing sugarless gum, and mouthwashes (I prefer Listerine in a flavor you can ...
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| wisdom tooth and lumineers | 5/3/2007 |
Q: i never had anything done to my teeth no check up or anything and im 20 yrs old my 2 back teeth hurt ...
A: Your 2 back teeth are probably infected. They will probably need to be removed, or will need root ...
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| Terminology | 4/19/2007 |
Q: What does these terms means, what do they specialize in and their limitations:- General Dentistry, ...
A: DDS is one degree given by U.S. Dental Colleges. It stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery. This is ...
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| retainers | 4/19/2007 |
Q: I'd like to know how long you're meant to wear retainers for after you get your braces off? Every ...
A: My rule of thumb is you must wear your retainer for 2X the amount of time you were in braces. So, ...
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| discomfort and numbness still present, day after cavity fillings | 4/18/2007 |
Q: Dr. Finnk, Yesterday, April 16, 2007, I went to my dentist to have two pinhead sized cavities ...
A: It's probably been a few days by the time you read this. I'm hoping that you are beginning to ...
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| bridge vs implant | 4/17/2007 |
Q: I have had a bridge of my last three left upper molars for about 25 years (it has been chnaged once ...
A: Without seeing you and your xrays, I can only speculate. The general rule is one implant per tooth, ...
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| Alveoloplasty needed | 4/17/2007 |
Q: I am in need of one quadrant Alveoloplasty. What approximately should this procedure cost?
A: I have no idea. Each dentist sets his or her own fees. I don't even know what my fee is, as I ...
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| Void in filling? | 4/10/2007 |
Q: Last Nov/December I had 4 fillings and a crown done. In February there was still some sensitivity ...
A: The void in the filling could be causing the problem. Usually voids cause sensitivity to hot or ...
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| bumps on gums | 4/10/2007 |
Q: i recently had my teeth extracted (3 weeks ago) due to soft teeth and breaking. I now have sore ...
A: They will likely go away after a few months. If you are so sore that you cannot wait, then they ...
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| Broken teeth | 4/9/2007 |
Q: My 25 month old daughter broke her two front teeth. A quarter of one tooth is chipped and the other ...
A: Your daughter is just about at the right age for her first visit to the dentist. For now, soft diet ...
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| receding gumline | 4/9/2007 |
Q: I've got a receding unlined which has caused me to loose 6 teeth already. its gotten so bad that i ...
A: If it is simple recession, using an extra-soft toothbrush, and brushing more gently will slow the ...
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| crown on root canaled tooth | 4/3/2007 |
Q: I had a root canal done on my front tooth when I was 9 due to a sports injury. When the filling fell ...
A: Sounds like the root canal has become re-infected. Likely you'll need a new root canal, or a ...
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| Toddler gum bleeding | 4/3/2007 |
Q: My 32month old son. currently has very smelly breath which we have told is as a result of ...
A: Very smelly breath is usually caused by unclean teeth and/or infected gums. It's time to take your ...
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| childs permanent teeth | 4/2/2007 |
Q: My son is 7 and 1/2 years old. I am concerned because he doesn't seem to be getting his top center ...
A: Not to worry. The same teeth didn't come in in my kids until they passed their 8th birthday. ...
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| Bruxism | 4/2/2007 |
Q: Does a nightguard protect teeth from intense clenching, in addition to grinding? How long should ...
A: A nightguard protects teeth from intense clenching and grinding when it is worn 24/7. I don't use ...
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| Tooth Root Exposure | 4/2/2007 |
Q: Will topical fluoride from the dentist help someone with root exposure sensitivity?
A: Usually. In addition, you can use Sensodyne toothpaste, both using it as your regular toothpaste, ...
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| Dentures | 3/22/2007 |
Q: Could you tell me if there is a way to "cut corners" on regular partial dentures with metal clasps. ...
A: The least expensive of these is known as a "flipper". It is usually made to quickly and temporarily ...
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| Gum problem | 3/22/2007 |
Q: I have a cut in my bottom gum in the front of my teeth and this cut just kept getting bigger and ...
A: It is quite possible that you have gum disease. About 60% of the adult population do. If you have ...
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| Gum problem | 3/21/2007 |
Q: I have a cut in my bottom gum in the front of my teeth and this cut just kept getting bigger and ...
A: Without seeing the cut, I cannot be specific about what you can do to help it. If cut from food, or ...
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| pain after fillings | 3/20/2007 |
Q: after getting some fillings done in a wisdomtooth about a week ago, I've been experiencing pain in ...
A: The nerve in the wisdom tooth is inflamed. Likely as a result of the trauma of having the fillings ...
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| lower lip numbness | 3/19/2007 |
Q: My problem is not directly related to dentistry,butthe numbness in my lower lip is a result of a lip ...
A: Sadly, for prolonged numbness, I have no firm answers. Your best bet would be go get with your ...
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| Help Regarding Gums | 3/19/2007 |
Q: how are you? I just had a question regarding an extraction I just had done a week ago. I had tooth ...
A: Odds are very good that everything you describe is all a part of the natural healing process after ...
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| Black spot in my mouth | 3/17/2007 |
Q: Finnk, I just noticed a black spot on the right side of my mouth while I was flossing today. It's ...
A: It might be a bruise, or a blood blister from you chomping on that part of your cheek. It might be ...
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| metallic taste | 3/17/2007 |
Q: I have been having this problem with a metallic taste on the sides of my tongue. It has become so ...
A: The most common cause of metellic taste is patients tasting metallic fillings or metal in dental ...
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| cyst around wisdom tooth and probability of jaw fracturing/temporary sensation loss due to nerve | 3/15/2007 |
Q: I am 48 years old and they have been consulting since 1991 with various dentists and now have been ...
A: The risks of which you speak are true of all wisdom tooth extractions. If you have been consulting ...
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| front tooth | 2/27/2007 |
Q: I had a fill in my top front tooth,After two days it fell out,it was put back in,and now it has fell ...
A: Probably a crown. I don't know how large, or in what shape is the cavity in your front tooth. But ...
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| toddler's discolored teeth | 2/27/2007 |
Q: I have a 21 month old whose front teeth have developed a dark brown stain, mostly at the gumline. ...
A: Of course you should take your child to a dentist. Preferably a pediatric dentist. The dark line ...
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| What is causing this? | 2/26/2007 |
Q: I have a spot on my front tooth that is whiter than the rest of my teeth, and I don't know what's ...
A: This is either a decalcification of the enamel surface, or hypocalcification inside the enamel. ...
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| Cosmetic - Baby teeth | 2/26/2007 |
Q: I have two baby teeth on the upper left, canine and ? (the two by the left big front tooth). I don't ...
A: Without seeing you and your xrays, I can't tell you for sure. But it is likely that you can have a ...
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| Negligent billing | 2/24/2007 |
Q: Mr Fink, I have a question. I went to a dentist just to have a look into gingivital grafting. The ...
A: The first thing you do is contact the dentist's business staff. Tell them that you were told you ...
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| assymetrical face | 2/10/2007 |
Q: My lower jaw deviates a tad to the left, but i was wondering if it can be because i always rest it ...
A: Usually, malocclusions are caused by skeletal (jaw) deviations from normal. However, occassionally, ...
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| front tooth problem | 2/8/2007 |
Q: Dr. Finnk, Today I looked in the mirror and it looks like one of my upper front teeth has somehow ...
A: Whether or not your tooth can be fixed depends on the length and depth of the crack. If your son's ...
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| tooth pain | 2/8/2007 |
Q: I have recently been going to the dentist to have several teeth filled. I have had pain in my last ...
A: This does happen, but is not common. It may be that the bite is hitting to heavily on the new ...
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| have to have some kind of surgery | 2/7/2007 |
Q: i went to see the orthodontist and he said something was wrong with my jaw or bite severe something ...
A: You need to have your orthodontist refer you to an oral surgeon who can explain the type of surgery ...
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| a question about periodontal surgery | 2/1/2007 |
Q: I am 24 years old and considering braces. My orthodontist wanted me to get checked out by a ...
A: I would begin with deep scaling and root planing and disinfectant irrigation of these areas (CDT ...
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| Permanent Dentures | 1/17/2007 |
Q: I have spent many thousands of dollars on my teeth the past couple of years. (root canals, crowns, & ...
A: There are probably other things that can be done, other than removing the bridge, removing the ...
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| bite equilization | 1/16/2007 |
Q: I have a problem with the contact of my 2nd molars. My lowers tilt lingually and the uppers tilt ...
A: Without a thorough workup, I can't answer you. What you probably need first, if you are this ...
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| #18 Molar Cracked -- Do I Need RCT? | 1/16/2007 |
Q: I’m a 43 year old male. My #18 molar has been cracked for about 4 weeks. The crack appears to be ...
A: It is possible that your tooth is not cracked into the nerve. Which means that you likely will not ...
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| loose front teeth | 1/14/2007 |
Q: My name is Mary-Jane and my two bottom front teeth have been really loose for a while now. I have ...
A: You'll need to see a dentist, who will likely tell you to have these teeth removed and replaced with ...
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| Drilling through porcelain crown | 1/12/2007 |
Q: Regarding your response, I've never used this site or asked this question of anyone before. This ...
A: My answer must not have made it through the internet maze to you (It was a great answer, too). The ...
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| Possible cracked root | 1/11/2007 |
Q: I've been through root canal therapy...tooth was extremely calcified...Dentist did the root ...
A: If the cap is connected to 2 other front teeth, it is likely that you will need to replace the other ...
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| Pain after fillings | 1/11/2007 |
Q: I hadn't been to the dentist in 4 years and I just went for a cleaning and a check up when they told ...
A: This is not normal. But it can happen after a great deal of dental work is done at one sitting. ...
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| About Braces | 1/10/2007 |
Q: I'm 18 now and i've finally decided on getting braces. My condition is not serious, i would only ...
A: My best answer is that you need to see an orthodontist or two or three. Some orthodontists will ...
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| Molar tooth infected/cracked | 1/9/2007 |
Q: I have a big molar tooth that is infected. It has had a cavity since I was a kid. (now 35) the tooth ...
A: Be sure to tell your dentist that you need to be sedated before any procedure is done. You might as ...
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| Post after root canal | 1/9/2007 |
Q: When I got the root canal he put a wire or somthing inride where the root was. He wanted to do a ...
A: I still don't know how much tooth structure remains to hold the filling. If this tooth is not ...
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| white strips | 1/9/2007 |
Q: I want to try crest white strips premium. Can I drink coffee on the days that I use the strips? ...
A: You can drink coffee or anything that will stain your teeth, at any time after the bleach ...
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| cosmetic dentistry | 1/8/2007 |
Q: how many years of dental school all together is there? how is it like being a cosmetic dentist? what ...
A: Dental school is usually a four year program, after two to four years of undergraduate university ...
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| Temporary numbness | 1/7/2007 |
Q: Last week I had a severe toothache- I visited the dentist and was numbed up- I had a hard time ...
A: You have what is called "paresthesia". Anesthesia to a region, usually caused by what you describe, ...
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| Loose Teeth | 1/7/2007 |
Q: I recently had a tooth cleaning done because it seemed my front bottom teeth were shifting and ...
A: You've told me that you feel they're loose, but you went to the dentist ahd she said they are not. ...
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| Can a tooth infection cause a sinus infection? | 1/7/2007 |
Q: You asked if I could let you know what I did. I have gotten my teeth fixed but I'm not sure if I'm ...
A: Although this appears to be infection of some kind, I believe it has gone too long to be of simple ...
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| Can a tooth infection cause a sinus infection? | 1/6/2007 |
Q: Can a tooth infection cause a sinus infection? Last month I woke up two days in a row with ...
A: It is possible for a tooth infection to cause a sinus infection. It is also possible for a sinus ...
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| swollen inside of lips | 1/6/2007 |
Q: Me and my dentist are both stumped about something, I'm hoping you might be able to provide some ...
A: If you really want to solve this mystery, you would need to keep an accurate diary of ALL your ...
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| Still having pain after extraction | 1/5/2007 |
Q: On Nov. 29 I had what was supposed to be a simple extraction performed by an oral surgeon. He said ...
A: One month is too long to go with painful healing from extraction. It is likely that you have ...
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| bone exposed after extraction | 1/5/2007 |
Q: I am male, 47. I had a lower wisdom tooth extracted about 3 weeks ago. About 4 days ago i noticed ...
A: Chances are your dentist is right. If in a few weeks, you still feel the bone, contact your dentist ...
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| please help | 1/5/2007 |
Q: About 2 weeks ago i noticed a white bump on my gum (right by the left side of my nose). I didn't ...
A: It is likely that it is all connected, and is certainly something you should be worried about. I ...
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| Post after root canal | 1/4/2007 |
Q: I am a 25 year old male. I had a filling on my front #7 tooth about 3 months ago. The tooth hurt ...
A: The rule for a front tooth is: Post and crown after root canal. This rule assumes that the root ...
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| Crowns/Fillings | 12/11/2006 |
Q: My dentist has all the latest technology, but she is charging me $970 for a crown on a molar ...
A: Sorry for the delay. The site was not responding this morning. Here in South Florida, $970 for a ...
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| Dentistry requirements | 12/10/2006 |
Q: what are the prerequirements for dentistry?
A: I can only tell you the prerequisites from my era: At least 2 years undergraduate study, which ...
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| Black Spots on my lower front gums. | 12/10/2006 |
Q: I recently had a wire taken off my lower back teeth from my braces I had before. My gums were ...
A: Could be pigment from your gums themselves (natural on some people). Could be tiny bruises in your ...
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| Ramification on delaying a root canal | 12/7/2006 |
Q: Finnk. It appears I had an infection near one of my back molars. I was given some penicillin which ...
A: The general rule is that the infection usually comes back worse, more virulent, and more likely to ...
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| Ionic vs Electric Toothbrush | 12/6/2006 |
Q: I've done some research on the net regarding electric toothbrushes and have found information on ...
A: I have no information on ionic toothbrushes, other than what's in the websites. My gut tells me ...
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| numb tongue | 12/3/2006 |
Q: its been 5 days since i had a filling, the first part of the injection was fine but after moving the ...
A: It's very rare, but "paresthesia" is known to occur after injection. This happens when the ...
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| Adult Braces and Gum Recession | 11/18/2006 |
Q: I am 49 years old and considering braces for cosmetic reasons. My dentist (not the orthodontist) ...
A: Neither am I. As with any medical or surgical procedure, there can be complications, which usually ...
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| Restormation Crown Strength on an Implant/ Abutment | 11/18/2006 |
Q: I am thinking about having my crown restored and have been given two choices. One will cost $350 and ...
A: Your subject line says "...on an implant", so I will assume you already have the implant in your ...
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| "clicking" jaw | 11/16/2006 |
Q: My wife's jaw starting "clicking/popping" (I can hear it too!) a few weeks ago, and she says it is ...
A: Your wife has what we call TMD (TemporoMandibular joint Dysfunction). Clicking and pain are ...
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| Dry Burning mouth | 11/16/2006 |
Q: I have written to you several times over my fear of cancer and dry mouth. Well I will try to make a ...
A: It is likely that your burning dry mouth is anxiety related, as the Xanax seems to help. Continue ...
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| Bony Bump above upper molar | 11/14/2006 |
Q: I have a white bony bump above my left upper molar (I believe it is 15) on the side facing my cheek. ...
A: Sounds like a boney protuberance called an "exostosis", a benign lump of bone which grows in an odd ...
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| Problem Crowns | 11/13/2006 |
Q: Years ago, I had a crown put on a tooth that was too short. The dentist said that he would have to ...
A: Buildups are done, more often to fill up a huge hole left from decay cleanout, than to make a tooth ...
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| Child Tooth Braces and Extraction | 11/10/2006 |
Q: My twelve year old daughter has a severe overbite. The Orthodontis wants two upper side teeth pulled ...
A: 1. The headgear is probably a requirement. My daughter wore one for a year, and she's gorgeous and ...
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| What is the difference between a crown and an inlay/onlay | 11/9/2006 |
Q: This is in follow up to your earlier response. What is the differnce between an onlay/inlay and ...
A: An inlay is made to fit inside the cavity inside a tooth. An onlay is similar to an inlay, but ...
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| about my daughters loose tooth | 11/4/2006 |
Q: What should i do w/my daugthers loose tooth?she's 6 yrs old. Her bottom front teeth are loose and ...
A: If her permanent teeth are coming in, and her baby teeth are still not out, it is likely that the ...
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| baby root cana | 11/3/2006 |
Q: My child is 7. One of her teeth in the mid jaw has an abscess. Her dentist said a baby root canal ...
A: Having the tooth out provides its own trauma. However, there are times when a baby tooth root canal ...
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| black spot on gums | 10/25/2006 |
Q: I have had a black spot on my lower gums for several years. My dentist didn't say anything about it, ...
A: I just answered another question about black spot on gums. Must be going around. Might be a ...
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| x-rays | 10/24/2006 |
Q: normally, how often should you receive x-rays?
A: Normally, a full set of xrays (about 16 exposures) at the initial visit, then again every 5 years. ...
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| Filling | 10/21/2006 |
Q: This is going to sound elementary, but what foods should I avoid to reduce sugar in my diet? I eat ...
A: I can't answer your question until you produce a 2-week intake diet, which includes everything you ...
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| Filling | 10/21/2006 |
Q: I recently had a filling placed in a tooth (bicuspid?) that had a cavity. The dentist said that a ...
A: No and No. If your tooth needs a root canal, the filling will not interfere. And root canal teeth ...
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| tongue tie, underbite, and speeck | 10/20/2006 |
Q: My 3 1/2 year old son was a late talker (2 1/2) and when he then began to work with a speech ...
A: In one part, you say your son has an underbite, and in the next you say overbite. With regard to ...
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| tightness in jaw after filling 2 1/2 wks ago | 10/20/2006 |
Q: I had a tooth on the lower left side of my mouth filled on oct 2 and ever since i have had a ...
A: I don't know exactly what happened. It is likely a result of the injection. Sounds like minor ...
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| Is it really infected? | 10/18/2006 |
Q: Finnk, Over the last 18 months, I have had extensive dental work done. 3 root canals, 2 ...
A: I cannot answer your question for you. Now that you know the condition of the tooth, it becomes ...
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| Expander | 10/17/2006 |
Q: My daughter is 11 years old and in the process of getting braces. She now has a expander on which ...
A: Your orthodontist has determined that the width of your daughter's upper and/or lower jaws are ...
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| Dry socket | 10/16/2006 |
Q: I had a tooth extracted Tuesday, it is still painful. I am assuming I have a dry socket. What can ...
A: If it is a dry socket, most dentists usually pack it with sterile gauze soaked in eugenol. This ...
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| Nitrous Oxide | 10/14/2006 |
Q: I am considering using nitrous oxide for an upcoming dental procedure and do not know what to ...
A: Nitrous Oxide usually helps patients get through procedures without swallowing. But, just in case, ...
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| infected tooth | 10/14/2006 |
Q: My boyfried, about 2 weeks ago, started experiencing mouth pain, at first, mild. yesterday it was ...
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