Archives for October 2022

Could a Pulp Cap Work for My Tooth?

Posted on October 29, 2022 by AllSmiles.

Last month, my dentist filled two cavities. While removing the decay from the third tooth, he mistakenly exposed the pulp. He stopped trying to remove the decay and used a pulp cap to avoid root canal treatment. Before that visit, I had not heard of a pulp cap, but I had to decide rather quickly because the pulp was exposed. My dentist explained the procedure to me and e-mailed some material to me. I want another dentist’s opinion on this, though. How do I know that the pulp cap will work? Are there any symptoms I should watch that might signal cap failure and that I will need a root canal anyway? Also, how long does this take? I was supposed to begin teeth whitening in two weeks and have it completed before my wedding. Thank you. Cecelia from Springfield, MA

Cecelia,

Thank you for choosing our office for your question.

We will give you and our readers some background on a pulp cap.

What Is a Direct Pulp Cap?

A direct pulp cap is a procedure to protect entirely or partially exposed tooth pulp. The process allows the dentin (the layer beneath tooth enamel) to grow back and cover the pulp. It can save you time and money and help you avoid root canal treatment.

When Do You Need a Pulp Cap?

You might need a pulp cap if tooth pulp (living tissue and nerves) is exposed during decay removal. Your dentist may be able to prevent damage with a pulp cap if the pulp is not infected. Saving tooth pulp can help avoid the need for root canal treatment.

What Is the Pulp Cap Procedure?

During a pulp cap procedure, a dentist will take these steps::

Remove tooth decay
Apply a cotton pellet to the tooth to stop bleeding
Clean and dry the tooth
Ensure the pulp is healthy
Apply a biocompatible material over the pulp to seal out the infection
Apply and bond composite filling in the tooth

If a dentist leaves decay in the tooth, it can grow slowly and infect the tooth eventually. If you are not experiencing any symptoms, we recommend not doing anything to the tooth. And if you remain symptom-free, your dentist can x-ray the tooth to see if it is still healthy. A toothache, sensitivity, or swollen gums are symptoms and signs of an infection leading to root canal treatment. Otherwise, your tooth should be healthy. After your tooth begins to heal, your dentist can give you an estimate of when you can start whitening your teeth.

Dr. Duane Delaune, a Metairie, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

Are a Tooth Post and Core the Only Way to Save My Tooth?

Posted on October 25, 2022 by AllSmiles.

Before my dental appointment last week, I had not heard of a post and core. My dentist says it will save my tooth. I thought a root canal protects a tooth, and I am trying to understand why I might need the extra step. My dentist’s explanation does not make sense. Why would I need a post and core, and what could happen if I decline it? – Thank you. Roderick from Newark, NJ

Roderick,

Thank you for your question.

Your dentist recommends a post and core to preserve your tooth

What Are a Dental Post and Core?

A dental post is a small rod that helps your tooth support a core. A core is a dental filling material for building your tooth to support a dental crown. Dentists use a post and core to strengthen a weak tooth after root canal treatment.

Why Would a Dentist Recommend a Post and Core?

A dentist may recommend a post and core if you lack enough healthy tooth structure to support a dental crown. Sometimes, a dentist must remove so much tooth decay or damage that little structure remains for cementing on a dental crown. A dentist will complete these steps:

Perform root canal therapy to remove tooth decay and infection
Insert one or two posts into the tooth
Fill in the tooth with dental material
Use dental bonding to shape the crown of the tooth
Bond the dental crown to the rebuilt tooth

Will You Use a Your Tooth If You Decline a Post and Core?

Dental implant

If you decline a post and core, you may lose your tooth for these reasons:

Without a post and core, your weak tooth may not be able to support a dental crown in the long term.
If your tooth further weakens, your dentist must remove it.
Replacing a missing tooth is expensive. You can expect to pay $3,000 to $5,000 for a dental implant and crown.

If you are unsure about your dentist’s treatment recommendation for a post and core, you may get a second opinion from an advanced cosmetic dentist. Delaying a post and core can create more concerns with your tooth and result in costly treatment.

Dr. Duane Delaune, a Metairie, Louisiana, cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

My Tooth Fillings Are Still Too High

Posted on October 6, 2022 by AllSmiles.

I’m tired of going to the dentist because my tooth fillings are too high. I want to change dentists because I chose this dentist who advertised as being holistic, but he can’t get my white fillings right. I had three silver fillings replaced with white ones, and my dentist keeps sanding them, but they don’t feel right when I chew. If he keeps sanding, the fillings will be too low. All the sanding makes the fillings rough, too. I can’t give up and do nothing because an uneven bite is uncomfortable. Should I give my dentist another chance or just move on? Thank you. Pilar from Philadelphia

Pilar,

Thank you for contacting Dr. Delaune’s office and sharing your experience. We understand the frustration of getting uncomfortable dental fillings.

Why Are Your Tooth Fillings Too High?

If your tooth fillings are too high, one of these reasons may be the cause:

Overfilling the tooth
Failing to adjust your bite correctly
Failing to check your bite

What Are the Symptoms of a High Tooth Filling?

When a tooth filling is too high, the opposing tooth (top or bottom) will strike it with more force when you bite or chew. The ongoing pressure irritates your tooth ligament. You may feel tooth sensitivity, pain, or discomfort when chewing when your teeth are at rest.

Should You Switch Dentists?

If your dentist lacks the skill or technique to restore your teeth correctly with dental composite, you may need to switch dentists. Although your dentist respects your wishes for mercury-free fillings, faulty work will create tooth irritation that can lead to an infection. A persistent infection will require root canal treatment.

Request a Consultation

We recommend looking for a skilled cosmetic dentist who uses biocompatible dental materials and advanced cosmetic dentistry techniques. Even if the dentist does not advertise services as holistic, you will get quality, comfortable cosmetic fillings.

Metairie, Louisiana, cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post.