Archives for October 2024

What Are Options for Closing a Tooth Gap After Gum Disease?

Posted on October 30, 2024 by AllSmiles.

As a 63-year-old woman who recently underwent gum disease surgery, I’ve been faced with a complex dental situation. Due to significant bone loss, I’ve lost six upper teeth, leaving a noticeable gap between my two front teeth. What are my options for closing a tooth gap after gum disease?

While dental implants offer a long-term solution, they cost too much. Braces could potentially close the gap, but the process is lengthy. It would require getting a new partial denture multiple times as my teeth align.

I’m currently weighing my options: a partial denture, a more permanent solution like implants, or simply accepting the gap. I’m active and work full-time, so my smile means a lot to me. I hate the gap. I’m seeking advice on the most practical and affordable approach to improve my smile and oral health. – Thanks! Leighanne from Sacramento, CA

Leighanne,

A comprehensive dental examination and X-rays will help a dentist assess your needs. Factors such as bone levels, tooth size, gap width, and overall oral health will influence the treatment plan.

While dental implants may be the ideal solution, as you mentioned, the cost is significant. Traditional dental treatments, like partial dentures or orthodontic treatment, are more affordable options, but they lack the aesthetics and function of implants.

Getting a second opinion from a cosmetic dentist or prosthodontist (tooth restoration and replacement specialist) who prioritizes patient satisfaction and is willing to explore all available options, including cosmetic dentistry. A skilled dentist can often find creative solutions to address aesthetic concerns, even in complex cases.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post. Read how they strive to provide patients with some of the best dental care in San Antonio.

My New Crown Feels Weird When I Chew

Posted on October 22, 2024 by AllSmiles.

A crown on my first premolar came off in August. My dentist insisted I needed a new crown rather than re-cementing the old one. I agreed because I had no basis for challenging her recommendation. I got the crown in early September, although neither the temporary nor the final crown felt right. My bite is still off. Although my dentist says she can adjust it until it’s right, it still feels weird when I chew.

At my last dental cleaning appointment, I was due for X-rays. The X-ray showed decay beneath the new crown. My dentist said I needed a root canal on the tooth. I decided not to let her touch the tooth because I am afraid that I will lose it. Could a root canal save the tooth? How do I know if I really need it? I am unsure that I need a new crown. – Thank you. Vadin from IL

Vadin,

A well-placed crown should feel natural and indistinguishable from your natural teeth. You should not feel discomfort or notice any difference in sensation when biting or chewing.

If a crown feels unusual, call a dentist promptly. A well-fitting crown should seamlessly look and feel like your natural teeth. If a crown is noticeable in how it looks for feels, a dentist must adjust it. Sometimes, further treatment may be necessary to achieve the desired outcome.

We recommend finding an experienced prosthodontist to examine your X-rays and tooth to determine whether you need a crown adjustment, a new crown, or root canal treatment. If the tooth is unsavable, you can trust an experienced prosthodontist to replace the tooth with a dental implant.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post. Read how they strive to provide patients with some of the best dental care in San Antonio.

How Can I Save a Front Tooth That Broke Near My Gumline?

Posted on October 17, 2024 by AllSmiles.

My left front tooth broke near the gumline. What are my least expensive alternatives (other than a dental implant) to restore the tooth? Will a crown help save the tooth? Thanks. Spencer from CO

Spencer,

A dentist may consider a crown for a tooth broken at the gumline, but only if the tooth experiences minimal stress. A deep overbite or a strong bite would make it difficult to secure the crown. However, a gentle bite might allow for a successful crown placement.

The remaining tooth structure would need a root canal treatment before crown placement. Then, a strong, flexible post, such as a carbon fiber or fiberglass post, would be inserted. A rigid metal post could lead to root fracture due to stress transfer. Two posts placed side by side can help resist rotational forces and improve stability.

For teeth experiencing significant stress, a dental implant is the most durable long-term solution. While more costly and time-consuming due to healing periods, dental implants offer superior aesthetics and longevity. Opting for a crown initially might lead to future implant placement if the crown fails.

The most economical dental solution isn’t always the most practical. A quick fix can lead to more complex and costly procedures later. Investing in a durable solution, such as a dental implant, can save time, money, and dental health in the long term.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post. Read what they do to provide some of the best dental care in San Antonio.