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My dentures are ruining my life!

Posted on by smiles4u.

I feel like I made a horrible mistake and I’m afraid there’s no remedy for it. I tried to find affordable dental implants and I came up short. Most of my teeth were shot, and the dentist told me all of my remaining upper teeth had to go. I really wanted to go with dental implants to replace them all, or at least the ones that show when I smile, but I wound up getting a denture to save on costs.

I knew I wouldn’t be overly-thrilled with the aesthetics, but I had no idea this thing would ruin my life. It hurts. I can’t eat or talk. I can’t even smile. The dentist says I’ll get used to it. No. I won’t. Now the time has passed and I’m afraid I’m stuck with this thing for life. I really wish I would have gotten another opinion or tried to save my remaining teeth. Any advice? — Laura

Dear Laura,
It’s a shame you went through this ordeal. Try not to beat yourself up about your lost teeth. They may not have been savable, so try to focus on what you can do now to make things right so you can get back to eating, talking, and smiling again.

In some cases, people do adapt to their dentures over time. Equally, your gums may be sore for a while after extractions, and as time passes, that will feel better, too. Adjustments can also be made to dentures at any point if the soreness is being caused by something other than the healing process. Sometimes, just smoothing out a small area can make a world of difference in how they feel. If your dentist didn’t check them and try, he probably should have. Give the office another call and let them know exactly what’s happening. If it really is related to the fit of them, they should be able to help.

Snap on Denture

As far as affordable dental implants go, you may have one more option. You can get something called a “snap-on denture,”  which relies on dental implants to hold the denture in place. This gives you a firmer hold than traditional dentures, but without the expense of a full set of implants. It often only takes two for it to work. Depending on your preferences, you can also have more placed, and have a partial denture designed to fit around them. Either method is less expensive than a full set, and will provide a better hold.

It’s also worth noting that dentures can look beautiful and natural. If you’re not happy with the appearance of your dentures, it may be worth having them remade by someone who specializes in them.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Should I still be in pain two weeks after cosmetic procedure?

Posted on by smiles4u.

A month or so ago, I went to Mexico to have a cosmetic dental procedure done and now I’m afraid I made a big mistake. I had several lower crowns done and also veneers on my front upper teeth. I am in so much pain and it’s been a couple of weeks since I had it done. My jaw hurts and one tooth is almost painful to the touch and I can’t even chew soft foods. When I asked the dentist about it, he told me to take ibuprofen to help with the pain and that it’s normal after having so much work done at one time. As for the crown that I can’t even chew on, he said something about it having high contact or possibly needing a root canal. Is it bad that it doesn’t even touch my top teeth when I bite together? Is this much pain normal so long after my procedure and should I just keep taking the ibuprofen until it goes away (I’m currently taking 800mg every 4-6 hours).

Julie,
You are right to be concerned. Taking those amounts of ibuprofen for such an extended period of time is not good for you, and it sounds like it’s not really helping – it’s only masking something that is not right. They amount of pain you are experiencing is not normal after getting crowns or porcelain veneers. Tenderness or soreness for a couple of days should be expected and your bite and teeth should align.

If you are back in the United States, go find a reputable cosmetic dentist in your area – or at the very lease, a competent general dentist. Even if you have to drive an hour or two, it will be worth getting a second opinion to determine what’s wrong before the situation gets worse. Try to back off or stop taking the ibuprofen and if you do need a root canal, don’t go back to the dentist in Mexico – there are only about a handful of good cosmetic dentist in the entire country. Even in the United States, only about 1 of 50 dentists is skilled in the art of cosmetic dentistry, but you should be able to find a reputable doctor near you.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Could my implant be causing my stinky breath?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I’ve had nothing but trouble with my dental implant. Not only were the appointments grueling, but I had bone grafting as well as a problem with my crown resulting in it having to be re-cemented. To top it all off, I had an infection that just wouldn’t go away, so I was on several rounds of antibiotics. I’m finally to the point where the implant feels ok, but I’ve recently noticed a really bad taste in my mouth and my husband now says I have bad breath. Nothing seems to help. Could this bad taste and smell be coming from my implant? My dentist insists that everything is fine and suggested that I watch the foods I am eating and referred me to my doctor.   — Lisa in Oakland

Lisa,
It seems like you can’t seem to catch a break in this whole process. It must be so disappointing to invest all that time and money and have to endure so many problems. There’s so much expertise and skill that goes into placing implants…that’s why it’s so important to do your research up front when choosing the best implant dentist.

Go ahead and check with your physician, but you should also seek  a second opinion from another implant dentist. The reoccurring infections you have been dealing with could be a sign that there is something wrong. Active infections can cause many of the symptoms you are describing and if ignored and not treated the infection can spread – costing you not only the implant, but even your jaw or something much worse.

A failing implant is not something to brush aside – it’s a very serious issue. Find someone who can get to the root of why you are having these problems. Antibiotics are only a temporary fix until the real problem is addressed and treated. If a proper diagnosis is not made, the infections will continue – and so will the bad smell and taste.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

What Can I Expect When Getting Dentures?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I think I am to the point where I need to get dentures. How does the procedure work? Will my dentist put me to sleep and pull out all my teeth and make the dentures all at one time?

Sylvia in California

Sylvia,

If you are in need of dentures, your dentist will extract all of your teeth at one time. Most patients have the option of IV or oral sedation, but if you want to just have local anesthesia and be awake for the procedure, you can do that, too. Keep in mind that not all dentists are certified in IV and oral sedation, so if this is something you prefer, be sure your dentist offers it.

When it comes to dentures, you have several options. An immediate denture is the most common type of denture and it is placed right after your teeth are extracted so you can leave the office with a new smile. Another benefit of an immediate denture is that it helps reduce swelling and bleeding. They are, however, more expensive than conventional dentures because they take more time to make and you will need more follow-up visits for adjustments after initial placement.

Conventional dentures are placed about eight weeks after healing, but the advantage is that you will likely have a better fit then with an immediate denture. During the healing process your gum tissue shrinks and the immediate becomes loose, requiring a soft temporary reline material to be placed on the denture for refitting. After about six months, when your mouth is completely healed, you will need a more permanent reline or possibly a new denture.

Before you make any decisions, talk with your dentist or specialist and discuss all your options. Dentures don’t always stay put in the mouth, and that is a problem for some patients. There are options to make dentures more permanent, such as snap on dentures that snap onto dental implants. Be sure to learn as much as you can before determining the type of denture that is right for you.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

What are the chances of all-on-4 implant failure?

Posted on by smiles4u.

Hello,

My teeth have caused me nothing but trouble my whole life. I don’t have very many left and my dentist has agreed to pull them so I can get dentures. He mentioned all-on-4s as an alternative to removable dentures because it will be more permanent. I do like the idea, but am concerned because a friend of mine had all-on-4s and something went terribly wrong with one of the implants. I’ve had enough trouble with my teeth and don’t want to risk going through what she did if this is something common that can happen. — Sharon

Sharon,

You are right to do your research and ask questions up front. While the all-on-4 procedure has been a hot topic recently for the reasons that you mention, you can relax a little bit and know that the problems your friend experienced are very rare. Implant failure happens in a very small percentage of patients.

Your success mostly hinges on the skill level of your dentist. To ensure you have a good outcome with the procedure, find a dentist who is educated and experienced with all-on-4, and ask the following questions:

  • Where he/she learned the procedure
  • If he/she has had any continuing education on all-on-4s
  • How long he/she has been performing the all-on-4 procedure and how many patients they have treated
  • Has there been any failures and what is the most common complication his/her patients have experienced

As with any medical procedure, your health will also play an important role.  Be sure your dentist thoroughly reviews your medical history to determine if you are at risk for implant failure. And if you are aware of any risks in your medical history, such as periodontal disease, bone loss, diabetes – or if you smoke, be sure to discuss all those risk factors open and honestly.

All-on-4s have a very high success rate, but asking questions and educating yourself before the procedure will put your mind at ease and ensure the best outcome possible.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Tinnitus caused by TMJ?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I am looking for an answer to the ear pain/noises/tinnitus that I have been experiencing in my left ear. It is difficult to pinpoint because the sounds and volume are not consistent, but it seems that the clicking gets louder and more bothersome late at night because my muscles tend to tighten up, causing head spasms. I work out regularly and also notice a throbbing or vibrating on the right back side of my neck when I run and it feels like something is not aligned. I recently had an MRI to rule out sinus issues or a tumor, so I think my next step is to see a dentist to determine if TMJ is causing my tinnitus.

Mark in Los Angeles

Mark,
What is unfortunate about TMJ is that the symptoms can vary from person to person and many times other dental conditions can cause the same problems. The symptoms you describe – the tinnitus, as well as the bothersome noises/clicking in your ear, tightening of your muscles and general feeling of something being out of alignment – do sound very much like TMJ.

While diagnosis of TMJ is an important first step, it can be an extensive process and treatment can be quite expensive. That is why it is imperative to find a dentist, like Dr. Delaune, who specializes in TMJ that can study your medical history and perform a thorough examination your face and jaw, including x-rays or other imaging studies and tests.

Do your homework… any dentist can claim they are a TMJ specialist, but they might not have much expertise at all. The only way to receive an accurate diagnosis is to visit a dentist who is trained in TMJ treatment and diagnosis. When you find a potential dentist, ask about his or her credentials or extra training/education in regards to TMJ as well as for testimonials from other patients who have been successfully treated. You will want to keep all of this in mind before spending a lot of money on a dentist who may not even solve your problem.

Read more about TMJ disorder on our website, plus learn about Botox, which is a new treatment for TMJ.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune.

When did they stop putting mercury in tooth fillings?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I have never been to the dentist until now. I am 25 yrs old. We had a big family and going to the dentist was something we never did. We barely got to the doctor. Mom did lots of home remedies or we just rode it out. I finally had a dental appointment and it lasted 3 hrs because never in my life did I hae my teeth cleaned. It was painful and bloody but boy do my teeth look so much better. of course I have cavities since I had never been to a dentist, 8 cavities. I was really nervous about it but my dentist said they will be white fillings with no mercury in them.  I am happy they will be white.When did they stop putting mercury in fillings? – tim

Tim – Amalgam fillings, or silver fillings, are still in use by many dentists, and they still contain mercury.

You are fortunate to find a dentist who will use white composite fillings in your teeth. White fillings will blend in naturally with your teeth. They do not contain mercury. White fillings were first introduced in the 1970s, and the technology progressively improved through the mid-80s.

Today, white fillings are commonly used to naturally conceal cavities, and the technology behind them is excellent for filling cavities in front and back teeth. A dentist who is skilled in placing them will give you lasting results.

This post is sponsored by Metairie, New Orleans dentist Dr. Duane Delaune.

How to whiten my teeth fast with out a dentist?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I am in my sister’s wedding in 3 weeks. I am her maid of honor. I want to get my teeth really white. I need to get it done fast. How can I do it without a dentist? – Kelli C.

Kelli – You can whiten your teeth without the assistance of a dentist, but you may not get the brilliantly white smile you want.

If you choose over-the-counter whitening strips that contain carbamide peroxide, they will whiten your teeth. Carbamide peroxide breaks down the stains in your teeth. You won’t be able to find over-the-counter gel with the same strength you can receive from a dentist. It will take two to three weeks to a bright smile.

Dentists provide professional-strength gel that will give you the brightest smile. In-office treatment will whiten your smile within an hour. Take-home treatment will whiten your teeth in about two weeks, but it will be significantly whiter than the results from over-the-counter products.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune, whom many people consider to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Lumineers to get my Hollywood smile?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I am looking at some celebrity photos and their teeth look the perfect size and very white. Did some of them have to get lumineers to get a smile like that or could teeth whitening do it? I want the same kind of Hollywood smile. – Ariel

Ariel – Lumineers, a brand of porcelain veneers, can make your teeth their whitest and look larger, but they may not be the best option for you. In fact, you may not need porcelain veneers at all to make your teeth look larger and whiter.

If you are thinking about getting a smile makeover, see a cosmetic dentist. If your gumline is low on your teeth, it can make them look smaller. Gum contouring can be done to reduce the size of your gumline and make your teeth look larger.

Teeth whitening from a cosmetic dentist can get your teeth brilliantly white.

We can’t recommend any treatment for you without an examination, but visit an experienced cosmetic dentist to find out your options for enhancing your smile.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Many patients think he is the best dentist in New Orleans.

Is it important to finish the root canal treatment?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

My dentist started a root canal on one of my teeth but she couldn’t  finish it because the root was longer than expected. When she used longer files, I had a lot of pain. So she stopped. The office called my insurance company and got approval for me to see an endodontist. Is it really necessary to complete the root canal or can I just get the tooth capped? – Jade

Jade – A root canal treatment is performed because there is an infection in your tooth. In order to ensure that the infection is removed, the entire pulp of the tooth, including the tips of the roots must be cleaned out and sealed off. If you leave the tooth untreated, the infection will linger and there is a possibility of it continuing to spread.

The tooth will need to be protected with a dental crown, frequently called a “cap,” but it’s important to ensure the infection is removed first.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune, a New Orleans Magazine Top Dentist whom many patients think is the best dentist in New Orleans.