cosmetic dentist Archives - 5 Star Dental Group

Why Are My New Crowns Darker Than at First?

Posted on March 31, 2024 by AllSmiles.

Two weeks ago, my dentist placed ceramic crowns with a porcelain glaze on my upper center front teeth. They perfectly matched my natural front teeth. I approved my dentist to cement them in. After he cemented them, I noticed a gray tent, so I asked my dentist about it. He said he uses transparent cement, so maybe it is the lighting. I have looked at my teeth in sunlight, fluorescent light, and natural light indoors, but I still see the gray tint. I think that my dentist will not acknowledge the mistake because I am scheduled to get two dental implants next week. He probably just wants to keep moving forward with my treatment plan. How do I know if my dentist really used transparent cement? Or did something in the bonding process go wrong? – Thank you. Bethany from Wyoming

Bethany,

We are concerned about whether your dentist let you try in your new crowns before bonding them. However, we will provide some insight on what may have happened.

Why Would Crown Color Look Good Then Look Gray?

If your new crown color initially looks good then looks discolored, the issue could be with the try-in of the lighting.

Dental Crown Color During a Try-in

Did your dentist use a try-in paste between your crown and tooth for you to check the fit and color? The paste could create a perceived color difference from when the crowns were cemented. Tooth color, stain, or a metal post in teeth can cause crowns to have a hint of gray. Some dentists use clear glycerin to try in crowns and mimic transparent cement or bonding.

Color Metamerism in Dental Crowns

Color metamerism is a situation that occurs when a color appears one way in a specific type of light but looks different when the lighting changes. Some porcelains match perfectly under fluorescent light but look different in sunlight or other types of light. But high-quality bonding cement will not change colors, and curing will not cause your crown color to look different from your natural teeth.

If the grayness in your crowns is significant and noticeable, your dentist should agree to correct it at his expense. Pay attention to the type of light that makes your crowns look gray. Schedule an appointment with your dentist and ask him to look at your crowns in different lighting, including the type of light that affects your crown color. Your dentist should be willing to help you achieve the natural results you want.

Best wishes on a quick but thorough resolution so that you can start planning for dental implants.

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.

Is a Veneer Okay for an Athlete with a Dark Tooth After a Root Canal?

Posted on May 30, 2022 by AllSmiles.

My daughter is a collegiate basketball player in Alabama, but our family lives in Georgia. She may need some cosmetic work on a dark tooth, but I have several concerns. We had a family event in late spring, and while playing volleyball with her cousins, she fell and fractured a front tooth. Our dentist did a root canal on the tooth, but it’s starting to turn gray. Our dentist recommends a veneer, but I don’t want her to have anything artificial done to her tooth if it isn’t necessary. She has a great smile, and I don’t want to mess it up. The other issue is that my daughter says the tooth is sensitive to cold. I’m now worried that she will lose the tooth and need a dental implant. Considering that my daughter is an athlete, I’m unsure if either treatment is correct. If she has another impact on the tooth, is doing cosmetic work a waste of money? – Sean from Atlanta

Sean,

Ensure a dentist has advanced cosmetic dentistry training before they do any work on your daughter’s tooth. If the dentist who performed the root canal knew how to prevent the tooth from turning dark, this would not be an issue. It is safe to say that you might need to switch dentists to get the issue resolved.

What Causes a Tooth to Turn Dark Soon After Root Canal Treatment?

A tooth can turn dark after root canal treatment from leftover root canal filling material. Consider a few facts about how the issue develops and how a dentist can resolve it:

Filling materials – If a dentist leaves root canal filling material in the upper portion of a tooth, the tooth will get dark quickly.
Leftover tooth pulp – If your dentist does not thoroughly remove the pulp inside the tooth, the remaining tissue will decompose, darken, and make your tooth darker.
Finding a resolution – A skilled cosmetic dentist knows how to whiten the tooth and conceal the discoloration with a porcelain veneer or a porcelain crown if necessary. A cosmetic dentist will ensure the restoration—crown or veneer—will match your daughter’s surrounding tooth.

When an Athlete Needs Cosmetic Dentistry

When an athlete needs cosmetic dentistry, a trained cosmetic dentist can assess which treatment options will give lasting, natural-looking results. Your daughter plays sports at the collegiate level, so no doubt, she wears a mouthguard while she is on the court. An impact on her mouth or face can affect any tooth, including the one that is currently dark. There is no guarantee that a dental restoration will stay intact if your daughter has another accident.

A dental implant is not necessary if a dentist can save and restore a tooth

We recommend getting a second opinion from another dentist to discuss treatment options. Let the dentist know that your daughter plays sports and explain your concerns about how long the restoration might last under those conditions.

The dentist will examine and x-ray your daughter’s tooth to determine what is causing the sensitivity. If the tooth is still healthy on the inside, there is no need to replace it with a dental implant. But a cosmetic dentist will explain her options.

San Antonio, Texas cosmetic dentist and prosthodontist Dr. Gilberto Tostado sponsors this post. Meet Dr. Tostado and get details on his training and credentials.

My implant overdenture makes my lips look puffy

Posted on December 29, 2020 by AllSmiles.

After getting Teeth in a Day, my denture is sitting too far forward, and it makes my lips look puffy. Will you please tell me how many millimeters from the gumline my dentist should place my permanent denture or if the denture should follow the gumline? The look of my temporary denture is making me think it’s too late to correct it without repositioning my implants. Thank you. Amias from Georgia

Amias,

It sounds like you’re referring to your denture teeth’s position in relation to your jawbone’s ridge beneath the denture. The gumline is the edge where your teeth and gums meet. If you are missing all your teeth, or if they are extracted for dentures, you no longer have a gumline. The point where your denture teeth meet the pink acrylic replaces your natural gumline.

Although Dr. Tostado would need to examine your implant overdenture for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options, we’ll explain how advanced cosmetic dentists achieve predictable results.

Placing Denture Teeth for Teeth-in-a-Day

Placing denture teeth for Teeth-in-a-Day requires meticulous attention to function and appearance. A cosmetic dentist will ensure you receive the best outcome for both.

Function

Teeth-in-a-Day

Teeth-in-a-Day is a system to support an arch of denture teeth with at least four dental implants. If your teeth are 2 to 3 millimeters from the ridge, that is close enough within range for proper function. But there are other considerations for placement of denture teeth, including aesthetics.

Aesthetics

Before a dentist makes your final denture or has it made by a lab, a wax model should be made. You can try in the model to examine how the denture looks, affects your speech, and affects your facial appearance—including the fullness of your lips. During the try-in, your dentist will ensure your bite and vertical dimension are accurate before your final denture is processed.

It’s not too late to talk to your dentist about how the dentures are affecting your lips. Your dentist can:

Determine if the impressions of your mouth are accurate or take new impressions
Remake the temporary denture or have the lab re-do it

If you were already wearing your permanent dentures, your dentist could remove and reset your denture teeth or have a lab revise them.

Teeth-in-a-Day should improve the function and appearance of your denture. Remind your dentist of your expectations, and don’t compromise. Your dentist should be able to get this right. But if it’s not going well after a second try, we recommend that you get a second opinion. Find a dentist with experience in implantology, aesthetics, occlusion, and bite (the way your upper and lower teeth fit together).

Gilberto Tostado, DDS, of San Antonio, TX sponsors this post. Dr. Tostado has post-graduate training in prosthodontics and dental aesthetics.

Can a Holistic Dentist Help My Allergies?

Posted on December 18, 2020 by AllSmiles.

Hi,

I was diagnosed with multiple allergies by my doctor, as well as chemical sensitivities. So far, I am allergic to materials commonly found in dentistry, such as cobalt, dental cement, titanium, and many other chemicals. When I’m exposed to any sort of chemical, I break out in hives. Is there a dentist that can help me? Can my general dentist help me with my allergies, or do I need to see a specialist?

Sakura, from Honolulu, Hawaii

Hi Sakura,

Any dentist should be able to help you with your allergies. You need to let your dentist to know your allergies, so they can work around them. You should call around ahead of time to see if your dentist can accommodate you. Dentists that are familiar with allergies and try to avoid using metal with their patients are known as holistic dentists. A holistic dentist would be more familiar with your situation and best able to help you.

Search for local holistic dentists in your area online and call them ahead of time to see if they can help you. You can also look for metal-free or mercury-free dentists. If they can help your allergies, make an appointment.

This blog post is brought to you by San Antonio holistic dentist, Dr. Gilberto Tostado, from 5 Star Dental Group.

My All-on-4s Feel Loose?

Posted on December 11, 2020 by AllSmiles.

Hello,

I used to wear a partial denture but did not like it that much. My dentist recommended the All-on-4 implant overdenture procedure, and I was excited at the prospect of the results. However, my denture is not comfortable to wear. It moves around and food gets stuck under it when I eat. Is this normal? Is there just an adjustment period I need to get used to it? I am not too happy with the results either.

Hifumi, from Waltham, MA

Hi there Hifumi,

It sounds like something went wrong during your procedure. The All-on-4 implant overdenture is not supposed to be loose. On the bright side, it should be easy to fix the problem.

You should go to your dentist promptly, to avoid any more problems or pain. Your dentist should be able to tighten it quickly in the office. If there is something wrong with a screw or denture itself, it could be solved in a few trips to the office. Fixing either problem will be non-invasive.

If something is wrong with the dental implants that support your All-on-4 implant, it will take more time to correct the problem. It will not be clear if the implant itself is the problem until the other possibilities are exhausted.

In any case, it is important to make an appointment to go see your dentist to fix this problem. If you dislike your dentist’s work or bedside manner, you could seek a second opinion elsewhere, but your dentist should be able to help you.

This blog post is brought to you by San Antonio All-on-4 implant overdenture provider, Dr. Gilberto Tostado, of 5 Star Dental Group.

My Teeth Fell Out All of a Sudden?

Posted on August 21, 2020 by AllSmiles.

Hi,

I will admit I have not always taken the best care of my teeth, and now that I’m in my 80s, I wish that I had. My dentist told me I have a bad case of gum disease, and warned me that my teeth could fall out. And that’s exactly what happened! Despite my mouth’s condition, I’d like to keep as many of my teeth as possible. My kids think I should get dentures, is that my only option? Do I need a full or partial denture? Are dental implants even an option at my age?

Ripley, from Dinosaur, Colorado

Hi Ripley,

Since your teeth are at the point where they are falling out of your gums, it sounds like your gum disease has progressed to advanced periodontal disease. In regards to answering your question, dental implants are preferable to dentures, as dental implants are anchored in your jaw and prevent decay.

However, dental implants are not the best choice for everyone, and certain risk factors increase the likelihood of implant failure. For example, a jaw that have too much decay will require a bone graft, as without one, the jaw will not be able to hold the implants. You will need a dental surgeon to properly assess you, as it would not be in your best interest to get a bone graft for dental implants only to have both the implant and graft fail.

Based on your description, a full-mouth restoration may be necessary. However, that would be the most costly option. You can also opt to remove any remaining teeth that are most likely to need it, or you can wait until they fall out on their own. Once all your teeth are out, you can proceed with a bone graft for a dental implant, or get removable full dentures. However, a removable partial dentures would be a cost-effective option and would save your remaining teeth.

Without teeth or dental implants in your jaw, your brain gets the message that you are not using your jaw anymore, and your body will begin the process of resorption. Your body slowly begins to break down the minerals in your jaw, which can lead to facial collapse over the course of ten years or so. However, given your age, dentures would improve your jaw health and preserve your teeth. With the money you save by getting dentures over dental implants, you can consult with a cosmetic dentist to make you a set of natural-looking dentures.

This blog post is brought to you by San Antonio dental implant provider, Dr. Gilberto Tostado, of 5 Star Dental Group.

Is it Normal for my All-on-4 Dental Implants to Fail?

Posted on August 14, 2020 by AllSmiles.

Hi,

I was in need of dental implants over five years ago. I’m in my 60s but wanted something that would last a lifetime, so I opted for All-on-4 implant overdentures. So far I have had no problems and feel they were a good investment. I maintain a strict oral hygiene routine with mouthwash and flossing in order to protect my teeth. However, one day I noticed a strange taste in my mouth, but nothing else was out of place. I mentioned this to my dentist at my six-month check-up, and after an X-ray, he determined I had an infection in one of my All-on-4 implants.

I was given some antibiotics, but he warned me that if the infection came back, the implant would have to be replaced – meaning it would have to be removed and I would have to go through surgery again.

I’m not too happy about having to go through this painful and expensive process again. I thought this would last the rest of my life, so why would they fail just a few years in? Is this normal? Will my new implant be likely to fail a few years down the line too? Do I have any other options?

Monty, from Decide, Kentucky

Hi Monty,

Your situation is unique and unfortunate. Studies have shown that All-on-4 dental implants have over a 94% success rate even 10 years post-surgery. However, there are no studies regarding success rates on replacement dental implants.

However, certain things can affect whether these implants are likely to fail. If you have periodontal disease, any pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes or inflammatory disease, or if you are a smoker, your implants are far more likely to fail. If none of these issues affect you, then something else may have caused the infection, and it may be impossible to determine the cause.

Also, any issues with your implants would likely have been noticeable shortly after surgery. Since your implants are several years old, your body has likely adapted to having them in your body.

Going through the process again is up to you. If the infection is only sourced in one implant, then likely the rest of your dental work will likely hold up for the rest of your life. If you are not sure, you can consult with a periodontist for a second opinion.

This blog post is brought to you by San Antonio All-on-4 dental implant provider, Dr. Gilberto Tostado, of 5 Star Dental Group.

Why Did My Jaw Hurt After My Dental Appointment?

Posted on August 7, 2020 by AllSmiles.

Hi,

I recently had my teeth prepared for several temporary crowns and several porcelain veneers placed on my lower teeth. I am looking forward to when my porcelain crowns come in, but ever since my appointment, my jaw has been aching. I cannot get through the day without taking over the counter pain killers, and wish I had something stronger. It usually hurts worse later in the day, and I need to take something to ease the pain before bedtime.

It’s been several days since my appointment, but my jaw pain hasn’t let up. Is this normal? Do I need to go back to my dentist? I really hope it stops soon.

Mayumi, from Gadsden, AL

Hi Mayumi,

There usually is residual pain after long appointments, as your mouth has been through a lot. You will likely have pain or discomfort for one or two weeks after the surgery. Preparing that many teeth for crowns and veneers requires the mouth to be open for much longer than you’re used to.

To make yourself more comfortable, you can call your dentist and ask if there is anything else you can do. The pain is likely temporary, so it should not be TMJ or TMD. Over the counter pain killers are OK to take, and try to rest your jaw as much as possible. You can also use heat from warm towels to help your jaw relax.

This blog post is brought to you by San Antonio TMJ dentist, Gilberto Tostado, of 5 Star Dental Group.

How Many Years of Experience Does an Implant Dentist Need to be the Best?

Posted on July 29, 2020 by AllSmiles.

Hi there,

I am a candidate for dental implants and want to make sure I find the best cosmetic dentist. I am nervous about getting dental surgery. The more experienced the dental implant dentist, the less risk of dental implant failure, right? That’s what I read online. However, nothing I have read mentions how many years an implant dentist needs before they can call themselves “the best”? Is there a certain, specific number I should look for?

Twila, from Salem, MA

Hi Twila,

The more experience a dental implant dentist has, the higher their success rate when placing implants and performing surgery. Researching a dentist before starting any surgical procedures is very important, as it will help you save time and save money in the long run. For example, an inexperienced dentist may recommend a bone graft when you do not need one, or may say they cannot place implants due to lack of bone. They also may struggle to color match the porcelain crown that covers the dental implant. Choosing the wrong dentist could cause you to start over again with a different dentist, costing you even more money.

Many patients entrust their dental implant surgery to their general or family dentist, basing their choice on trust rather than the dentist’s experience. No matter how long your dentist has been in practice, if they do not have dental implant experience, they may not be the best option for your procedure.

There are no research studies done on how many years an implant dentist needs in order to be the best. However, studies show that restorations last longer when done by a dental implant specialist versus those done by a dentist. However, some dental implants just fail. Be sure to maintain your oral hygiene routines and continue with follow-up appointments post-surgery.

There is no magic number of years of practice to look for. Instead, focus on finding someone who has many years of continuing education in dental implants, and who has done a large number of cases.

To find the best implant dentist for your case, check the websites and reviews of cosmetic dentists in your area. Most will let you do a free consultation before booking an appointment. If you are really worried, you can ask your potential dentist how many of their implant cases have failed, as they will most likely remember. Bear in mind that one or two failed procedures at a practice that sees many patients is no cause for concern. Choose your potential dentist based on their experience as well as their bedside manner, someone who listens and answers your questions sincerely.

This blog post is brought to you by San Antonio dental implant provider, Dr. Gilberto Tostado, of 5 Star Dental Group. Please note that dental implant specialist is not a certified field of dentistry; however, dentists that have attended continuing education courses on dental implant procedures and have experience with palcing implants will call themselves dental implant specialists.

Are My TMJ Problems and Diabetes Related?

Posted on July 3, 2020 by AllSmiles.

Hi there,

I have been having jaw pain for months. I tense my jaw when I’m stressed, and I grind my teeth at night. My dentist made a night guard so I would stop grinding, but still no relief. I have tried cold compresses and ibuprofen to reduce the pain and inflammation, but still nothing. My dentist also ground down some teeth, as a misaligned bite was likely causing TMJ pain. Still no help.

My insurance has not been covering this, so I am out a lot of money and no closer to finding an answer to my pain. I feel like my dentist has given up, as his latest idea is that my diabetes is responsible for my pain. Is that correct? He knew I had diabetes when I first walked into the office, so why did it take him so long to mention a link between the two?

Since he thinks it is linked to my diabetes, he says there is nothing he can do for the pain. It is interfering with my daily life; I can barely eat or sleep because of the pain. What can I do? Or will I be in pain for the rest of my life?

From Alphonse, in Columbus, Ohio

Hi Alphonse,

You are correct, your temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is likely the cause of your pain. However, if your dentist knew you were diabetic, he should not have prescribed you ibuprofen, as it is contraindicated for diabetics, meaning you could be at higher risk of side effects.

Diabetes can cause oral health problems, such as dry mouth, which can lead to gingivitis. It can also cause diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage to your nerves near the surface of your skin. This usually affects a patient’s feet but can affect other parts of your body, and very rarely affects your face.

Despite the link between the two, there are still ways to options. If your dentist is not willing to treat your pain, you should seek a second opinion. A dentist more skilled in treating TMJ will likely be able to provide you some relief.

This blog post is brought to you by San Antonio TMJ dentist, Dr. Gilberto Tostado, of 5 Star Dental Group. Please note that TMJ is not a specialization or certification, but dentist who pursue continuing education courses pertaining to TMJ will call themselves TMJ dentists or TMJ specialists.