Baton Rouge Dentist

Archives for April 2012

What are bitewing x-rays?

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I got a extraction a month ago and had an x-ray taken of the extraction site. I went to get a check-up this past week and they took more x-rays. I asked “what are you doing” and she said, “we are taking bitewing x-rays” and my question is why did I need more x-rays because they took one last month?

Thanks, Jeff

Dear Jeff,

It is standard procedure for a dentist to take an x-ray after an extraction site to make sure there is no part of the tooth left in the socket. Your bitewing x-rays taken at your dental check-up are necessary in order to see if you have tooth decay in between your teeth. Bitewings are usually taken either every six months or once a year depending on insurance and your dental needs. This type of x-ray is necessary for your dentist to do a proper dental exam. It is difficult to diagnosis tooth decay in between the teeth without a bitewing x-ray. Next time you are uncertain about a procedure don’t hesitate to ask so you feel more comfortable and have an understanding of what is needed and why.

Post courtesy of Dr. Perry, Baton Rouge Dentist.

My sister’s mouth won’t open properly she complains that her jaws is stiff. What is it?

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My sister cannot open her mouth properly and had no problem with it this morning. She gets a pin prick feeling at the bottom of her jaw and sometimes when she opens it a bit wider she gets small headaches.

Thanks, Kyle

Dear Kyle,

It sounds like your sister is having temporomandibular joint dysfunction. This type of disorder can come and go or be constant. Stress, grinding and clenching of the teeth, gum chewing, or misaligned teeth are some of the factors that lead to this disorder. Headaches, earaches, and pain upon opening are common symptoms of this dysfunction of the joint. Our advice would be to put heat and ice packs on the joints to help alleviate the pain, take ibuprofen as needed, rest the jaw by keeping teeth slightly apart, and reduce stress. We recommend she consult with a dentist who offers TMJ treatment. If she is grinding or clenching a mouth appliance may be recommended to prevent her from having symptoms, reduce the pain, and prevent her from causing damage to her teeth.

Post courtesy of Dr. Perry, Baton Rouge Dentist.