What if the temporary comes off?
Avoiding hard or sticky foods will keep the temporary in place.
If the temporary does come out, call our office for re-cementation
or apply a small amount of denture paste or chewing gum to the
temporary.
How long can I wear a temporary?
Temporaries usually remain in place for 2 weeks. If extractions
are necessary for a bridge, a temporary may be worn for up to
3 months. It is possible that a temporary will be worn for 6 months
or longer if the entire bite is changed.
Do I need a root canal before a crown?
No, root canals are not required prior to crowns; but, if a root
canal is necessary later on, one can be done after the crown is
cemented.
How do you feel about tarter control toothpaste?
Tartar control toothpaste reduces the severity of tartar formation and makes its
removal somewhat easier for the patient. Some people develop a burning sensation
from these pastes and either switch to another brand or stop their use.
How often should I change my toothbrush?
About every three months.
Do I need a Sonicare toothbrush?
The Sonicare electric toothbrush has shown dramatic improvement
for our patients who are not proficient with manual brushing
and
flossing. Depending on your maintenance level, you may benefit
from a Sonicare toothbrush.
What kind of mouthwash or toothpaste should I use?
Only ADA approved pastes with fluoride are recommended. Any mouth
rinse can be used as a refresher, but over the counter mouthwashes
do not kill more germs than salt water rinses. A prescription
for an antimicrobial mouth rinse will be written only when indicated.
Why do I need to be pre-medicated?
Millions of bacteria are present in the mouth. Even a routine
cleaning can cause these bacteria to enter the blood stream and
settle on a damaged heart valve or prosthesis and produce a life
threatening infection. No pre-medication is needed for healthy
people without heart problems, artificial valves, or joints.
Will I be sensitive to hot and cold?
After a normal filling, you may experience sensitivity to temperature
changes, which will usually decrease within a few weeks. After a larger
or deeper filling, the sensitivity may last for several months. Sensitivity is
normal if the sensation does not linger after the hot or cold food is taken away.
When can I eat?
30 minutes after the anesthesia wears off.
What is the difference between white and silver fillings?
A silver filling weakens the tooth to 60-70% of its original strength.
Obviously, the bigger and wider the filling, the weaker the tooth
becomes. Some dentists feel that silver fillings can cause teeth
to crack as the filling swells over time. Eventually, the filling
crumbles and starts to leak. Some silver fillings corrode as they
leak and turn the tooth a shade of blue-black. White fillings
are constantly being improved with the latest research and now
are almost as durable as silver fillings. Because they are bonded
to the tooth, they help reinforce the tooth by "gluing"
one side of the tooth to the filling and in turn to the other
side of the tooth.
Why do I need a post?
When a tooth is broken near the gum line, a post may be needed
to help make the tooth long enough so a crown can successfully
grip onto the tooth.
How long will the treatment take?
Approximately 2-3 weeks.
Does it harm my teeth?
The solution has been used for years with no harmful side effects
documented or reported, if used properly.
How long will it last?
Currently, this process will hold stable for approximately 3 years.
Retreatment is very simple using the original mouthpiece and additional
solution.
What causes bad breath?
Bad breath can be caused by many things, such as certain foods,
poor oral hygiene, gum disease, a dry mouth (zerostomia), tobacco
products or a medical disorder. When bacteria accumulate because
of poor oral hygiene or gum disease, or when saliva is lacking,
bad breath can result. Saliva is necessary to wash away food particles
and bacteria. Certain medications and disorders can lead to a
dry mouth. Sometimes a sinus infection, postnasal drip, or other
respiratory tract infection can cause bad breath. If bad breath
is persistent, contact your dentist to determine whether the cause
is of dental origin.
What can I do about bad breath?
Regular checkups will allow your dentist to detect any problems
such as gum disease, a dry mouth, or other disorders that may
be the cause. Good oral hygiene is essential. Brush twice a day
and clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners.
Brush your tongue, too. If you wear dentures, be sure to remove
them at night and clean them thoroughly before replacing them
the next morning.
