Affordable Dentist Archives

Will Crown Lengthening Stop My Dental Crown from Falling Off?

Posted on February 14, 2024 by AllSmiles.

My dentist wants to remove some of my gum tissue to give my crown more tooth area for bonding. Last Tuesday was the fourth time the crown fell off. My dentist returned the crown but said I may need the gum procedure if it falls off again. Is this extreme? Shouldn’t she try to figure out why the crown is falling off? If my gums are in the way of the crown, why didn’t she know that before bonding the crown last October? Also, the tooth’s base is dark, but it wasn’t like that before the new crown. I’m concerned that I will need a new dentist and crown and won’t be able to afford it. – Thanks. Andrej from Brooklyn, NY

Andrej,

Yes, your dentist should have ensured she knew how to bond your crown securely and prevent it from falling off.

What Is Crown Lengthening?

The bottom of a hollow dental crown with a dental stick holding it — Crown lengthening can help a dental crown stay in place

Crown lengthening is a procedure to trim gum tissue and perhaps some of the bone supporting your tooth to expose more tooth structure and retain a dental crown. A dentist may perform crown lengthening for a secure bond and prevent a dental crown from falling off.

However, a dentist may secure a crown on a short tooth without doing crown lengthening by preparing the tooth with a very slight taper and cutting grooves in the sides of the tooth. Still, a dentist must perform crown lengthening if most of a tooth’s structure is missing from wear, trauma, or decay.

Get a Dental Crown Second Opinion

Although your dentist plans to alter your gum tissue and do a new crown, we recommend consulting a cosmetic dentist for a second opinion. Your dentist should willingly refund you and your dental insurance company if applicable. Your crown is not functional, so your dentist should not charge a fee. Still, you can talk to your new dentist’s billing office about getting affordable dental care with payment plans.

Baton Rouge family dentist Dr. Ryan Perry sponsors this post. Please read about how he strives to provide his patients with the best care possible.

My Dentist’s Grinding Ruined My Crown

Posted on December 11, 2023 by AllSmiles.

In October, my dentist placed crowns on my left first and second molar teeth. One of the crowns fell off, so my dentist cemented and ground it down to correct the bite. Within two weeks, the back side of the crown (closest to my tongue) broke. I think she was too aggressive with that grinding tool. Now I feel weird when I chew on that side of my mouth. My dentist had emphasized how affordably she could provide the two crowns, but now I might need new ones. Thank you. Milan from NJ

Milan

Thanks for your inquiry.

Should a Dentist Grind on Your Crowns?

Dentists commonly adjust a new crown to your bite by grinding or filing it down. But the dentist must check your bite in intervals to ensure that not too much—or too little—of the crown is adjusted. But these are minor adjustments. Your dentist will shape and smooth the crown to prevent it from feeling rough.

But we are concerned about several aspects of your experience.

Loose crowns – A permanent crown should not loosen or fall off. Your dentist might have aggressively prepared your tooth or bonded the crown incorrectly.
Adjusting your bite – A dentist should adjust your bite and crown when placing it. It is not expected to modify the crown after re-cementing it. Something went wrong in the process. Still, your dentist must explain why she adjusted it.
Broken crown – A crown should not break from conservative bonding. Dr. Perry would need to examine your crown, but it seems it is now dangerously thin.
Affecting your bite – The adjustments affect your bite, which can cause multiple issues leading to TMJ symptoms.

Your dentist should compensate you. We recommend scheduling a second opinion with a cosmetic dentist trained in occlusion and bite. You don’t have to sacrifice quality to get affordable dental care.

Baton Rouge family dentist Dr. Ryan Perry sponsors this post. Please read about how he strives to provide his patients with the best care possible.

New Dental Implant Bridge and My Bite Is Off

Posted on July 4, 2023 by AllSmiles.

After getting a new implant bridge in November, my teeth on the left side do not line up. My bite The bridge has two implants and replaces four bottom teeth. I think this is weird, but my dentist says it’s better each time he tries to adjust it. Maybe it looks better, but it doesn’t feel better. Is this a common issue? If so, who do I need to see to resolve it? I no longer value my dentist’s opinion. I’m frustrated and think that I deserve a refund. I don’t know how I could afford to finish the work again. Thanks for your help. Justin from Dayton, OH

Justin,

We are sorry to read about your disappointing experience with your implant bridge.

Model of a dental implant bridge for three lower molar teeth — Dental implant bridge

When you bite down, your upper and lower teeth should meet simultaneously. Although the issue can occur, it is related to the quality of dental implants and the skill of the implant dentist. If the problem continues, it could lead to TMJ disorder.

What May Cause Misalignment in a Dental Implant Bridge?

Misalignment can occur in a dental implant bridge from miscommunication, implant placement, or dental bridge construction.

Miscommunication. Sometimes, miscommunication can occur between an oral surgeon who places the implants and a dentist who restores them with crowns or a bridge.
Dental implant placement. If the surgeon places the implants in a location, the dentist did not anticipate, your crowns or bridge will not fit correctly, and it can misalign your bite. Or a dentist can misplace implants. Symptoms can include teeth, jaw, neck, ear pain, and other jaw joint issues.
Dental bridge construction. Mistakes while taking impressions of your mouth or errors with dental bridge construction can affect how the oral appliance fits.

We recommend getting a second opinion from a skilled implant dentist. You will need an examination and a 3D X-ray to determine whether the surgeon placed the implants incorrectly or whether there is an issue with the position or quality of the implant bridge.

Getting a second opinion promptly can prevent you from experiencing symptoms that will worsen with time. Also, you paid for a functional implant bridge, but your teeth are misaligned and interfering with the bridge function. You can ask for a refund after getting a second opinion and evidence of your current dentist’s faulty work. If your dentist took shortcuts for your bridgework, it might cost more than your refund amount for a dentist to complete the necessary steps. Ask your new dentist about payment options to make your treatment more affordable.

Baton Rouge family dentist Dr. Ryan Perry sponsors this post.

Can I Get Teeth Fillings Without a Numbing Shot?

Posted on February 15, 2023 by AllSmiles.

Can I ask a dentist not to give me a shot before filling three medium-sized fillings? I hate needles and prefer not to get local anesthesia for fillings. I have a high tolerance for pain anyway. How can I convince her not to give me a shot before filling the cavities? Is this something my dental insurance company or primary care doctor can talk to my dentist about? I want the cavities filled. I just do not want the injection. Thanks for your help. Enrique

Enrique,

Thank you for contacting Dr. Perry’s office.

Can You Get Teeth Fillings Without a Numbing Injection?

Although you can get fillings without a numbing injection, your dentist will explain the difference between treatment with local anesthesia and treatment without it. Medium-sized cavities may take some work to remove the decay, and they may become uncomfortable for you. Your dentist is knowledgeable about your case and will let you know what to expect either way.

Before and after composite fillings, for information on numbing shots for dental fillings — Talk to your dentist about your concerns regarding numbing injections for dental work

If you are anxious about receiving injections, ask your dentist what she does to deliver pain-free injections. Be open to her opinion and weigh your pros and cons before making a final decision. Your dentist can apply a topical anesthetic to your gums to numb them and prevent you from feeling the injection.

Many dental offices offer distractions like music or an overhead TV to help you focus on something other than the dental procedure and its sights and sounds.

Also, dental sedation can help you relax and lower your sensitivity to pain or discomfort during a dental appointment. Depending on your anxiety level, your dentist may recommend nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation before beginning your dental procedure. Contact your dental insurance company to ask about plan benefits for sedation. Your dentist may also offer payment plans to make care more affordable.

Baton Rouge family dentist Dr. Ryan Perry sponsors this post. Please read about how he strives to provide his patients with the best care possible.

I Have Two Missing Teeth and Can’t Afford Dental Implants

Posted on December 21, 2022 by AllSmiles.

I lost my upper left canine and premolar teeth five years ago and have been wearing a partial denture since then. Two weeks ago, I talked to my dentist about how uncomfortable the partial denture feels. She explained that I could get a dental bridge or implants, and she really pushed for implants. I cringe at the thought of being $6,000+ in debt for dental implants, so I need another perspective on my alternatives. Please assist. Thank you. Kaye

Kaye,

Thank you for contacting our office. Dr. Perry would need to perform an oral exam and take x-rays to determine your treatment options. Still, we understand your concerns. A smile is part of our facial expressions and personality, so we must weigh our options carefully when teeth are missing. Even if you cannot afford dental implants, getting natural-looking results is essential for your self-esteem and confidence.

What Are the Options If You Can’t Afford Dental Implants?

If you cannot afford dental implants, the options include a fixed or a removable prosthesis (artificial teeth).

Removable Replacement Teeth

Whether you are missing one or multiple missing teeth, a partial denture can replace them. If you already wear an uncomfortable partial denture, you can get a more comfortable new one from a skilled dentist. You can consult with a cosmetic dentist for a partial denture with these improvements:

Better quality
Sturdy, comfortable framework
Natural-looking replacement teeth

Fixed Replacement Teeth

Fixed replacement teeth include a dental bridge and dental implants.

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is a series of dental crowns connected at their sides. The end crowns fit over your natural teeth, and the crown(s) in the middle replaces the missing tooth or teeth.

A dentist must shave down two natural teeth for the ends of the bridge to fit over them.
Your jawbone will shrink wherever your teeth are missing.
A well-made dental bridge can last five to ten years.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots with a crown attached to the top. You can get a dental implant for each missing tooth. A dental implant is the most expensive form of tooth replacement. Consider three features of dental implants:

Your jawbone anchors your implants, not adjacent teeth.
Dental implants stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone shrinkage.
An implant screw can last 20 years or longer. You will only need to replace the dental crowns.

Your oral health and your budget influence the tooth replacement option you choose. We recommend scheduling at least two second-opinion appointments to discuss your options and how each dentist can make treatment affordable. If you cannot afford dental implants, speak with a cosmetic dentist about achieving the most natural-looking results possible with a partial denture or a dental bridge.

Dr. Ryan Perry, a Baton Rouge family dentist, sponsors this post.

Will I Need a Veneer After a Front-Tooth Root Canal?

Posted on February 17, 2022 by AllSmiles.

I have a front tooth that is turning dark and requires a root canal. Will the tooth be just as dark after the root canal? Will teeth bleaching before and after help? Or will I need a veneer? I’m sure my dental insurance will not cover all of this, but I am concerned about my smile. Thank you. Nicholas from Springfield, MO

Nicholas,

Thank you for your question.

Generally, root canal treatment darkens a tooth.

Why Does Root Canal Treatment Darken a Tooth?

Root canal treatment darkens a tooth if a dentist leaves root canal filling material in the pulp chamber, which is visible above the gumline.

How to Prevent Tooth Darkening After Root Canal Treatment

After treating the tooth, a dentist can prevent discoloration with these steps:

Remove root canal filler material from the pulp chamber
Bleach the tooth internally by sealing bleaching solution inside
Insert a fiberglass post into the root
Fill the tooth with composite

Your dentist should complete internal bleaching as soon as possible after the endodontist completes the root canal. Also, they should wait to place the post until the endodontist is confident that the root canal is successful. After removing the filler material, your dentist will wait a few weeks to check your tooth color. If it is stable, the results can last for several years.

What If Your Dentist Cannot Correct Your Tooth Color?

Root canal emergency diagram of five procedure steps — A cosmetic dentist can lighten a tooth after root canal treatment

If your dentist is not familiar with the techniques required to lighten your tooth color after root canal treatment, we recommend scheduling a consultation with an advanced cosmetic dentist. It may be helpful to consult with two cosmetic dentists before root canal treatment to ensure you have found a dentist to treat the tooth as soon as possible after the endodontist confirms that your root canal was successful.

Otherwise, a skilled cosmetic dentist can correct your tooth color with a porcelain veneer. A dental crown is an aggressive treatment that can weaken your tooth and increase the risk of breaking. And unless the tooth is dead, you will not need to replace it with a dental implant. Talk with the dentist about making treatment affordable with payment plans or financing.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana, dentist Dr. Ryan Perry sponsors this post.

How Long Can I Delay Treatment for a Tooth Infection?

Posted on November 30, 2021 by AllSmiles.

I need some advice. I am out-of-town on business. My tooth has been hurting on and off for three weeks. This week, the pain became constant, and my cheek is a bit swollen. I will be on this assignment for two more weeks. And yes, I know that I should have taken care of this before I left home. Is this something that can wait, or do I need to find a dentist here who will take me on an emergency? Thanks for your answer. – Jason from Chicago

Jason,

Based on your description, it’s likely that you have an infection in your tooth that has spread and created an abscess.

It’s best to find an emergency dentist to treat the infection. You have two more weeks on your out-of-town assignment, during which an untreated infection will continue to spread and cause more problems.

Treating a Tooth Abscess

The dentist will give you an antibiotic to treat the abscess. Root canal treatment will clear the infection from the pulp of the tooth. That may be all that is necessary if the tooth is otherwise in good condition. If the tooth is cracked or damaged, a dentist may need to remove it.

Although many people get anxious about root canal treatment, the procedure is painless.

A dentist will numb your gums before injecting a local anesthetic.
After making an opening in the crown of your tooth, the dentist will clean out the infection deep into the roots.
After treatment, the dentist will cover your tooth with a temporary crown.

If You Need an Extraction

If an extraction is necessary, find an experienced cosmetic dentist to replace the tooth with a dental bridge or a dental implant when you return home. The restoration will look completely natural. In either case, you can ask each dentist about their payment options, including payment plans or financing.

Ryan Perry, DDS, a Baton Rouge dentist, sponsors this post.

Are partial dentures my only option?

Posted on October 31, 2021 by AllSmiles.

After a battle with advanced gum disease, seven of my upper teeth are missing. I still have my two front teeth, but gum loss created a gap between them. I want dental implants, but my dentist says my bone won’t support them, so I can get partial dentures, which are more affordable. I know that if I try to close the gap, I will need braces and more partial dentures after my teeth are straight. It’s just the expense of all this that scares me. Are partial dentures my only option? I’m not sure what to do. Thank you. Vickie from Columbia, SC

Vickie,

Thank you for your question, Vickie.

We understand your concerns about your smile and your oral health. Although your dentist is offering the most affordable option, we recommend that you look for a dentist who is just as—or more—concerned about your appearance as you are.

Dr. Perry would need to examine your mouth, teeth, and x-rays for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options. Still, two options that will give you a better smile than a partial denture are an implant-supported bridge or individual implants.

Before offering a solution, a dentist will need to gather more information, including:

A comprehensive examination
A CT scan to measure your bone volume
The size of your front teeth
The size of the gap between them

We recommend getting an opinion from a skilled cosmetic dentist concerned about your appearance but will work with you to make dental implants or whatever treatment you choose affordable. After diagnosis, the dentist can explain if you can complete treatment in phases. Financing and payment plans will help you pay for care over time without accumulating a lot of debt.

Ryan Perry, DDS, a Baton Rouge dentist, sponsors this post.

Should My Root Canal Tooth Still Hurt?

Posted on August 31, 2021 by AllSmiles.

Last week, I had a repeat root canal on a lower molar. My dentist thought she might have missed a canal, so she referred me to an endodontist. The endodontist repeated treatment but did not find a missing canal or an untreated canal. He said that my dentist did a great job. The endodontist told me that I would have some discomfort, but the tooth still hurts. This tooth has been problematic for most of 2021, and I hate to think that the root canal was not the solution after all. How long will it continue to hurt? Also, the endodontist reminded me to follow up with my dentist for a crown, but I cannot afford a crown right now. Is it necessary? Thank you. Dom from GA

Dom,

You can assess the success of root canal treatment by the way your tooth feels over time. If pain or swelling is not increasing, your tooth should begin feeling relief in a few days.

How Long Is Root Canal Recovery?

After root canal treatment, as local anesthesia wears off, you will feel soreness and tenderness in your tooth and jaw for a few days. The American Association of Endodontists confirms that you should contact your dentists or specialist if severe pain or pressure lasts for more than a few days.

What Can You Do While Your Root Can Tooth Heals?

While your root canal tooth heals, you can increase your comfort in these ways:

Take over-the-counter pain reliever or medication as your dentist or endodontist prescribed
Avoid chewing on or biting down with the root canal tooth
Avoid sticky, chewy, crunchy, sugary, and acidic food
Gently brush your teeth and floss around them
Keep your follow-up appointment

Contact your dentist or endodontist if your discomfort continues or increases or if you feel that your bite (the way your upper and lower teeth meet) is off.

Do You Need a Crown After Root Canal Treatment?

Diagram of a root canal tooth (left) and the healed tooth with a crown (right) — A dentist can work with you to make a root canal and crown affordable

A crown on a molar tooth will protect it after root canal treatment. Molars grind food, and the crown can absorb the stress on a tooth that is already weak. If you cannot afford a crown, speak with your dentist about payment plans or financing.

Ryan Perry, DDS, a Baton Rouge dentist, sponsors this post.

My dentist seems afraid to extract my tooth

Posted on August 27, 2021 by AllSmiles.

In 2019, my upper first molar tooth broke two after the filling came out. The pain increased, so I went to a dentist who did a root canal on the tooth. I still had some pain in the tooth on and off, but I was afraid to see a dentist, and since the dentist did not follow up with me, I left the matter alone. So that’s how I got to the temporary filling falling out. Two weeks ago, I went to a new dentist that my coworker recommended. My coworker likes the dentist’s patient care, and she has lower fees than most dentists in our area. The dentist said that repeating a root canal is too invasive and prefers to remove the tooth. She told me that the extraction might include removing some bone. She seemed a bit hesitant or afraid about extracting my tooth. The other option she gave me is to see an oral surgeon who can extract the tooth under anesthesia. Which option should I choose? Thank you. Dylan from SC

Dylan,

Thank you for your question. Dr. Perry would need to examine your tooth and x-rays for an accurate diagnosis. But your new dentist may be uncomfortable with the complexity of the extraction. Or, your dentist may think that the experience could be traumatic for you.

You have had bad dental experiences in the past. Even after the root canal issue, your anxiety kept you away from the dentist. So perhaps an extraction under anesthesia is a good idea for you. Millions of people have dental anxiety that prevents them from getting proper care. If your dentist attempts the extraction and it is unusually uncomfortable for you, the experience will add to your stress.

What to Ask If Your Dentist Is Hesitant About Tooth Extraction

If your dentist is hesitant about tooth extraction, you can talk with them to help you decide your course of treatment. We recommend that you speak to your new dentist about her comfort level with your tooth extractions. You can apply these questions to almost any procedure your dentist is hesitant about:

How many extractions like this have you performed?
What form of sedation will you use for the procedure?
Do you think removing the tooth might be traumatic for me due to the condition of my tooth roots?
Do you expect complications?

Although it sounds like your dentist is honest about what you can expect with the extraction, it might help to ask a few more questions. And you mentioned that your dentist makes your treatment affordable. Although you may have found a knowledgeable dentist, please do not let low fees alone determine who will extract your teeth. Ensure your dentist has training and experience to make your experience pleasant. You can also schedule a consultation with the oral surgeon and get their opinion.

Dr. Ryan Perry, a Baton Rouge dentist, sponsors this post.