Baton Rouge Dentist

Archives for March 2013

There’s No Contact with my Dental Bridge

Posted on by .

Two months ago, I decided to get an upper right side three unit fixed bridge. This seems to look fine from the front but when I look at the back of my mouth, there’s a noticeable space between my top and bottom teeth. The teeth don’t touch, chewing is awkward and uncomfortable and my dentist doesn’t seem to think there’s a problem; my dentist said this is as good as it gets.  Is this normal or should I seek a second opinion?
– Daniel in Louisiana

Dear Daniel,

It’s a challenge to know why your teeth aren’t touching without reviewing your dental x-rays, doing a complete exam and seeing clinical notes. There are many reasons your teeth might not be touching. One reason may be that you have fractured bottom teeth and your dentist is trying to prevent more damage by allowing space on the bottom. The other reason is that you may have a tooth that has erupted on the bottom. Another consideration is that if a tooth has been missing for a while, a dental bridge may not duplicate your original bite because the mouth changes over time. Sometimes teeth shift so this can affect contact. It’s generally important that there’s tooth contact to prevent further dental issues. If you’re questioning your recent procedure, we would recommend you get a second opinion.

This blog sponsored by Dr. Ryan Perry.

Should I Still See My Dentist if I have the Flu or a Cold?

Posted on by .

I have an upcoming dental appointment but I haven’t been feeling great. I’ve been coughing and my nose is running but I don’t have a fever. I keep hearing about flu season but I’m not sure if I have the flu or should cancel my appointment. I have a dental appointment in a few days but have been coughing and my nose is running.  I don’t think I have a fever but with all of the reports of the flu in the news, I’m thinking that I should cancel my appointment.  I’m also not sure if I will be charged for the missing appointment. What should I do?

– Paul in Louisiana

Dear Paul,

It’s not always obvious how infectious you are to others. Also, it’s hard to know if you have the flu or a cold early on with your symptoms. The best thing you can do is take your temperature and monitor it over the next few days.

Since you are suffering from flu-like symptoms, it’s recommended that you reschedule your appointment.  The flu, or influenza, is spread from an infected person through small particles released into the air when you sneeze or cough; even talking may release small particles into the air. A single sneeze may infect numerous people.  Not only can you infect other patients, but you can also spread the infection to the dental staff.  Dental professionals work in direct contact with fluids in the mouth so if you’re infected, they may get the virus. Although they engage in frequent hand-washing and barriers such as: gloves, masks and eyewear to protect themselves from infectious diseases, these are not foolproof.

Be sure to phone the dental office and explain why you need to reschedule. Some offices appreciate that you’re considering their health and the health of other patients and will waive the fee if you’re not a frequent offender.

For more information about Baton Rouge Family Dentist, visit Dr. Perry’s site.