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About Howard Finnk, D.D.S.
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
I am a Family and Cosmetic dentist, and will answer questions on any aspect of dentistry and matters relating to the smile, gums, jaws and lower face. Member ADA, MDA, MDS, Academy of General Dentistry, Vedder Honors Society, Mt. Sinai Hospital Guild; Volunteer: Project Dental Health, Tri-County Dental Health Council.

Experience
After having attained over 30 years of experience in private practice in Michigan, in 2001 I was re-certified by taking and passing the Florida State Dental Board Examination. In addition, I am now a member of the Florida Dental Association, Broward County Dental Association, and the Atlantic Coast District Dental Society. In September, 2004, I was appointed Adjunct Clinical Professor at Nova University's College of Dental Medicine. I am certified in placement of Mini Dental Implants, and I am Director of The Florida Implant Center.
   

You are here:  Experts > Health/Fitness > Dentistry > Dentistry

Questions Answered By Expert  Howard Finnk, D.D.S. 
In Category  Dentistry

SubjectDate Asked

Implant Supported Bridge10/3/2008
  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 planus10/3/2008
  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 Bridge9/27/2008
  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 loss9/27/2008
  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 loss9/27/2008
  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 palate9/21/2008
  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 ...
specialist9/13/2008
  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 implant9/6/2008
  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 Molar9/6/2008
  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 extractions9/5/2008
  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 tooth9/5/2008
  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 crown9/5/2008
  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 recession9/5/2008
  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 Question8/31/2008
  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 URGENT8/30/2008
  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 bridge8/23/2008
  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 ...
Underbite8/19/2008
  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 removal8/19/2008
  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 estimate8/19/2008
  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 veneers8/18/2008
  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 extraction8/18/2008
  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 ...
whiteners8/18/2008
  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 line8/17/2008
  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-rays8/17/2008
  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 extraction8/17/2008
  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 biting8/17/2008
  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 old8/17/2008
  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 loss8/16/2008
  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 Jaw8/16/2008
  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 Fillings8/16/2008
  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 Dentures8/7/2008
  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 Bridge8/6/2008
  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 Bridge8/6/2008
  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 mouth8/6/2008
  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 extraction8/5/2008
  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 tooth8/5/2008
  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-filling8/5/2008
  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 ...
Evaluation8/4/2008
  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 teeth8/4/2008
  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 sinus8/4/2008
  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 costs8/4/2008
  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 guidence8/4/2008
  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 Crown8/3/2008
  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 ...
Alveoplasty8/2/2008
  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 canals8/2/2008
  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 Pain8/1/2008
  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 removal7/27/2008
  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 care7/19/2008
  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 ...
hi7/12/2008
  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 ...
hi7/12/2008
  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 implant7/12/2008
  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 face7/11/2008
  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 ...
hi7/11/2008
  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 Pain7/5/2008
  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 canal6/28/2008
  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 tooth6/28/2008
  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 whitening6/27/2008
  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 Pain6/15/2008
  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 water6/15/2008
  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 MOLAR6/14/2008
  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 line6/8/2008
  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 tooth5/31/2008
  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 buildup5/30/2008
  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 problems5/25/2008
  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 cleaning5/25/2008
  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 tooth5/16/2008
  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 disease5/16/2008
  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-UP5/3/2008
  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 teeth5/3/2008
  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 teeth5/3/2008
  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 teeth4/25/2008
  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 question4/19/2008
  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, ...
Fillings4/19/2008
  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 question4/18/2008
  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 gums4/11/2008
  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 crowns4/11/2008
  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 Crown4/11/2008
  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 milktooth4/11/2008
  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 Bridge4/5/2008
  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 extraction4/5/2008
  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 crown4/5/2008
  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 extraction4/4/2008
  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 wisdom4/4/2008
  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 mouth3/28/2008
  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 fillings3/22/2008
  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 ...
tooth3/22/2008
  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 veneers3/21/2008
  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 ...
gums3/21/2008
  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 reactions3/17/2008
  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 tongue3/8/2008
  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 tooth3/1/2008
  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 implant2/29/2008
  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 split2/29/2008
  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 ...
Debriment2/29/2008
  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 rippled2/29/2008
  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 money2/23/2008
  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 grinding2/22/2008
  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 gums2/16/2008
  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 mishap2/10/2008
  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 ...
sore tooth2/10/2008
  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. ...
Lump on Palate2/10/2008
  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 ...
Lump on Palate2/10/2008
  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. ...
cosmetic dentistry2/9/2008
  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 ...
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, ...
numbness after wisdom tooth extraction2/8/2008
  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 ...
numbness after wisdom tooth extraction2/8/2008
  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 ...
numbness after wisdom tooth extraction2/8/2008
  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 ...
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. ...
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 ...
Dental Implants2/1/2008
  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 ...
novacaine1/27/2008
  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 ...
Lower jaw pain1/26/2008
  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 ...
Tonge Pain1/18/2008
  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 ...
Severe Dental and Jaw Problems1/11/2008
  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 ...
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 ...
When is there not enough tooth to cap1/5/2008
  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 ...
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 ...
brown teeth12/31/2007
  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 ...
black spot on tooth12/30/2007
  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 ...
Gumline Graft12/30/2007
  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 ...
Gumline Graft12/29/2007
  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 ...
Lower Second Molar Abcsess12/29/2007
  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 ...
Back top my left tooth12/28/2007
  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 ...
Brown Gunk from Hole in Gum12/24/2007
  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 ...
Action after braces removal12/23/2007
  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 ...
Proxy Brush vs. Flossing12/16/2007
  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 ...
pain after composite filling in molar12/15/2007
  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 ...
metallic taste in the mouth12/8/2007
  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 ...
pain+pain+pain12/1/2007
  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 ...
broken front teeth11/30/2007
  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 ...
broken front teeth11/30/2007
  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 ...
wisdom tooth problem11/30/2007
  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 ...
Abutment placed in Jan11/23/2007
  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 ...
My 12 year old molars11/23/2007
  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 ...
lumineers11/16/2007
  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. ...
Teeth Horrors11/15/2007
  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 ...
Wisdom Teeth11/15/2007
  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 ...
Flouride11/10/2007
  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 ...
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 ...
tooth filing10/21/2007
  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 ...
Pain in the socket and white patches10/13/2007
  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 ...
Numb tougue surface10/12/2007
  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 ...
Porcelain veneers10/6/2007
  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, ...
my sons teeth10/6/2007
  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 ...
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 ...
sore gums9/22/2007
  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 ...
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 ...
sore gums9/21/2007
  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 ...
infant underbite question9/21/2007
  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 ...
Crown & Post9/21/2007
  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 ...
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 ...
discomfort & swelling after dental work9/15/2007
  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 ...
biting mouth/cheek lining9/15/2007
  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, ...
root canal problems9/14/2007
  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 ...
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 ...
TOOTHPASTE9/12/2007
  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 ...
Irrigation9/12/2007
  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, ...
jaw hurts9/11/2007
  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 ...
Root canal9/10/2007
  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 ...
Questions before Implant9/7/2007
  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 ...
root canal9/7/2007
  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 ...
unaesthetic bridge9/7/2007
  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 ...
* allexperts - teeth whitening9/2/2007
  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 ...
wisdom teeth9/1/2007
  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 ...
Extraction/Implant8/14/2007
  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 ...
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 ...
Jaw8/12/2007
  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 ...
Extraction/Implant8/11/2007
  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 ...
Wisdom teeth and facial appearance8/11/2007
  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 ...
Root Canal8/10/2007
  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 ...
wisdom teeth extractions8/10/2007
  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 ...
Extraction/Implant8/9/2007
  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 ...
root canal8/9/2007
  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 ...
Deposit on teeth8/5/2007
  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 ...
root canal & general dentistry8/4/2007
  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 ...
My Awful Dentures8/2/2007
  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 ...
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 ...
crown8/1/2007
  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 ...
Bone Chip8/1/2007
  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 ...
whistle crown7/17/2007
  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. ...
wisdom teeth7/17/2007
  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 ...
Extraction/Implant7/17/2007
  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 ...
Discolored lateral edges of upper back molars7/17/2007
  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 ...
Gap Between Teeth #'s 14 & 157/16/2007
  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 ...
Fluoride damage7/16/2007
  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. ...
Complete upper teeth extraction except for incisors7/16/2007
  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 ...
Wisdom tooth coming in7/14/2007
  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 ...
multiple root canals7/13/2007
  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 ...
Complete upper teeth extraction except for incisors7/12/2007
  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 ...
Jaw locking after extraction7/11/2007
  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 ...
black tooth7/10/2007
  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 ...
Root Canals and Crowns7/9/2007
  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 ...
Glue for a dental device7/9/2007
  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. ...
Toddler Crowns6/29/2007
  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 ...
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), ...
Gummy Smile6/27/2007
  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 ...
Gummy Smile6/27/2007
  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 ...
Tooth knocked out of place6/23/2007
  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 ...
Amalgam or composite filling on last bottom6/8/2007
  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 ...
It scares me6/7/2007
  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 ...
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 ...
Teeth Whitening5/13/2007
  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 ...
my son5/12/2007
  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 ...
potentially painful dentures5/11/2007
  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), ...
Adding to a tooth5/9/2007
  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 ...
pain in all lower teeth after back molar filled5/7/2007
  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 ...
Crown Lengthening5/5/2007
  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 ...
lollipop5/3/2007
  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 ...
wisdom tooth and lumineers5/3/2007
  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 ...
Terminology4/19/2007
  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 ...
retainers4/19/2007
  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, ...
discomfort and numbness still present, day after cavity fillings4/18/2007
  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 ...
bridge vs implant4/17/2007
  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, ...
Alveoloplasty needed4/17/2007
  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 ...
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 ...
bumps on gums4/10/2007
  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 ...
Broken teeth4/9/2007
  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 ...
receding gumline4/9/2007
  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 ...
crown on root canaled tooth4/3/2007
  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 ...
Toddler gum bleeding4/3/2007
  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 ...
childs permanent teeth4/2/2007
  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. ...
Bruxism4/2/2007
  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 ...
Tooth Root Exposure4/2/2007
  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, ...
Dentures3/22/2007
  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 ...
Gum problem3/22/2007
  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 ...
Gum problem3/21/2007
  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 ...
pain after fillings3/20/2007
  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 ...
lower lip numbness3/19/2007
  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 ...
Help Regarding Gums3/19/2007
  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 ...
Black spot in my mouth3/17/2007
  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 ...
metallic taste3/17/2007
  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 ...
cyst around wisdom tooth and probability of jaw fracturing/temporary sensation loss due to nerve3/15/2007
  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 ...
front tooth2/27/2007
  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 ...
toddler's discolored teeth2/27/2007
  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 ...
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. ...
Cosmetic - Baby teeth2/26/2007
  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 ...
Negligent billing2/24/2007
  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 ...
assymetrical face2/10/2007
  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, ...
front tooth problem2/8/2007
  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 ...
tooth pain2/8/2007
  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 ...
have to have some kind of surgery2/7/2007
  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 ...
a question about periodontal surgery2/1/2007
  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 ...
Permanent Dentures1/17/2007
  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 ...
bite equilization1/16/2007
  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 ...
#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 ...
loose front teeth1/14/2007
  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 ...
Drilling through porcelain crown1/12/2007
  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 ...
Possible cracked root1/11/2007
  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 ...
Pain after fillings1/11/2007
  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. ...
About Braces1/10/2007
  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 ...
Molar tooth infected/cracked1/9/2007
  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 ...
Post after root canal1/9/2007
  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 ...
white strips1/9/2007
  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 ...
cosmetic dentistry1/8/2007
  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 ...
Temporary numbness1/7/2007
  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, ...
Loose Teeth1/7/2007
  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. ...
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 ...
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 ...
swollen inside of lips1/6/2007
  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 ...
Still having pain after extraction1/5/2007
  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 ...
bone exposed after extraction1/5/2007
  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 ...
please help1/5/2007
  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 ...
Post after root canal1/4/2007
  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 ...
Crowns/Fillings12/11/2006
  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 ...
Dentistry requirements12/10/2006
  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 ...
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 ...
Ramification on delaying a root canal12/7/2006
  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 ...
Ionic vs Electric Toothbrush12/6/2006
  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 ...
numb tongue12/3/2006
  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 ...
Adult Braces and Gum Recession11/18/2006
  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 ...
Restormation Crown Strength on an Implant/ Abutment11/18/2006
  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 ...
"clicking" jaw11/16/2006
  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 ...
Dry Burning mouth11/16/2006
  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 ...
Bony Bump above upper molar11/14/2006
  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 ...
Problem Crowns11/13/2006
  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 ...
Child Tooth Braces and Extraction11/10/2006
  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 ...
What is the difference between a crown and an inlay/onlay11/9/2006
  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 ...
about my daughters loose tooth11/4/2006
  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 ...
baby root cana11/3/2006
  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 ...
black spot on gums10/25/2006
  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 ...
x-rays10/24/2006
  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. ...
Filling10/21/2006
  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 ...
Filling10/21/2006
  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 ...
tongue tie, underbite, and speeck10/20/2006
  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 ...
tightness in jaw after filling 2 1/2 wks ago10/20/2006
  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 ...
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 ...
Expander10/17/2006
  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 ...
Dry socket10/16/2006
  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 ...
Nitrous Oxide10/14/2006
  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, ...
infected tooth10/14/2006
  Q: My boyfried, about 2 weeks ago, started experiencing mouth pain, at first, mild. yesterday it was ...
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