Archive for May, 2012

Filling or Veneers to close a gap in teeth?

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

I’m going soon to the dentist to get fillings in to close two gaps in my front teeth. Fillings are obviously the much cheaper option, but would they be as strong and effective as veneers? Would they last as long? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Jeff

Dear Jeff,

Using composite filling material to close the spaces between your teeth may work, however aesthetically may not look as nice and natural as dental veneers will. Composite fillings will discolor overtime and the attempt to close the spaces will become noticeable therefore you may find yourself replacing the fillings several times throughout your life. Having this type of dental treatment completed to close your spaces may make your teeth look bulkier and not as uniform. Dental veneers are made of porcelain and are much stronger then composite filling material, therefore can last for years without discoloring or chipping away. We recommend you have a consultation with a dentist that has a lot of training in cosmetic dentistry. Discuss your concerns and if you prefer to have the dental veneers and our concerned about the cost, ask if they will work with you on some type of payment plan.

Post courtesy of Dr. Malone, Lafayette Louisiana Cosmetic Dentist

 

Root Resorption

Thursday, May 10th, 2012

I have been told today that I have tooth resorption on my front tooth. This was noticed by my orthodontist. My question is could my braces have made this happen (I have had them off for 4 months now) and what is the best treatment? She spoke about root canal filling and is this going to make it permanently better?
Thanks Bradley

Dear Bradley,

It is common for most patients going through orthodontic treatment to incur some root resorption during the treatment process. The root resorption most likely will stop now that your braces are off, no further treatment should be necessary, and the possibility of you losing the tooth in the future is highly unlikely. Now if your resorption is severe and you have bone loss around the tooth then the probability of losing the tooth in greatly increased. Only if your tooth is infected will you need to have a root canal. Our advice to you is to see an endodontist for an evaluation of the tooth. Endodontist specialize in root canal treatments. If they say the tooth is not infected then you will not need any treatment even if root resorption is present. We advise you to have your tooth x-rayed at least once a year during your dental check-ups to make sure your tooth is not losing any bone and that the resorption is stabilized.

Post courtesy of Dr. Malone, Lafayette Louisiana Cosmetic Dentist