Recent questions from readers answered.

Mary D:  I was recently told by a dentist that I need a root canal, a post, periodontal crown lengthening surgery and a crown. The total cost of treatment is $4500! Do I have any alternatives?

That is a difficult question to answer without seeing the specific case, but here are some thoughts. There are quite a few things to consider. The first is the general condition of the teeth. If you have numerous other dental problems that need to be addressed, you must prioritize these and decide if the cost of doing them all is something you can afford. The last thing you want to do is spend $4500… (Read More)

I recently read a book called “A Few Words from the Chair: A Patient Speaks to Dentists” by David Clow. This is a book written by a patient (journalist) for dentists. Here is how the book starts.

“Dentistry offers people so much that they want and need. Why don’t people get it? What would permit someone to have this resource available, and fail to use it? What would cause them to misunderstand it so thoroughly that they fear it more than they fear the consequences of not collaborating with a dentist?”

I have written numerous times on the five barriers that patients face in getting ideal dental treatment: fear, money, lack of concern due to… (Read More)

Halloween is a great time for building family memories and enjoying delicious treats. But all that sugar consumption can add up to one big toothache unless you follow some tips from your local dentist. Here’s how to keep this witching season both fun and tooth-friendly.

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Choosing a health care provider is not always the easiest thing to do. There are many factors and sources to consider. When most people finally choose a health care provider, they will stay with that person unless there is some kind of personality conflict or philosophical discrepancy in the perceived need for treatment. Or, there is an insurance issue; we will discuss that in a different column.

It is not uncommon to get a second opinion or a second or third quote for things like car repairs and home improvements. When it comes to our health, it usually depends on the nature of the issue. More complex issues in medicine, such as a diagnosis of… (Read More)

October is here!!  This means only 3 months left in 2018. It’s crunch time to get everything done that we haven’t gotten done during the rest of the year. For those with remaining dental benefits, it’s also the time of year to consider utilizing those so you don’t lose them.

Unused dental benefits go directly back to the insurance company, which generates hundreds and hundreds of thousands of dollars for the insurance companies each year. Dental insurance companies count on the fact that many people will not claim their $1000 or so in benefits by the end of the calendar year. Those with dental benefits should look for legitimate means to use these benefits before… (Read More)

Students have been back to school for a few weeks now, so it’s time for a quiz. Good luck!

Question #1: The risk factors for gum disease are the same as for heart disease (genetics, smoking, weight, lack of exercise, and high cholesterol).

Answer: False. Genetics and smoking tobacco are major risk factors, but stress, medications, lack of proper hygiene, and systemic problems, such as diabetes, are additional risk factors. Just like heart disease, management of gum disease requires strict maintenance visits to monitor and control the disease.

Question #2: Less than one in ten people will experience a fractured tooth.

Answer: False. About one in four sustain a fracture to a front tooth by… (Read More)

Last week I discussed clenching, which is vertical force put on teeth. Grinding or bruxism is lateral (excursive) forces put on teeth that cause teeth to rub together and wear. Both of these are very destructive to teeth, joints, and muscles.

Some people present with symptoms relating to these two issues, but more often than not, people do not have symptoms. We dentists know that patients who present with signs of tooth wear are riskier to treat. Riskier because the “issues” are often times, and maybe even most often, not treated. This is a significant reason for tooth structure breakdown and shorter life-span dental work.

There are many reasons people grind or clench their teeth.… (Read More)

Visiting your dentist every six months for cleanings and examinations is one of the main ways to protect your mouth, teeth and gums from bacteria growth and the many problems that come along with it. However, your local dentist says you stand to gain even more from preventive dentistry – it’s an educational opportunity for you as well. As you read on, you’ll discover what questions you should be asking at your next visit so you can maximize your time.

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There are many reasons people get headaches, and many medications and suggestions on how to prevent them. You may have heard that reducing stress in your life can help reduce headaches. Although methods of relaxation are important to get through the stresses of life, it may not be enough to prevent headaches, especially in the subconscious (i.e. sleeping).

Studies have shown a link between tooth grinding, clenching and headaches. For people who grind or clench, the muscles that open and close the jaw can become painful from overuse, causing a range of symptoms from tension to migraine headaches to jaw joint (TMJ) problems to tooth pain.

Bruxing (grinding) and clenching teeth is defined as abnormal… (Read More)

In a recent poll I read, people were asked if they would choose a cosmetic makeover, liposuction, facelift, or teeth whitening if money was no object. 52% of those surveyed said they would choose teeth whitening. While there are many ways to whiten teeth, including professionally in the dental office, consumers are spending over $1 billion per year on over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products. People want whiter teeth because it makes them look better.

Almost all whitening products will lighten teeth to a certain extent because they all contain hydrogen peroxide or a derivative. The controlled environment of the dental office and the quality of the materials used usually provides the most predictable and most effective… (Read More)