All posts by AllSmiles

Teeth whitening

Can I use my free teeth whitening trays as a retainer?

Hi. Just wondering if I can use my free teeth whitening trays as a retainer. I got the trays from my former dentist and I still use them to whiten my teeth. They are in almost new condition. I completed Invisalign treatment 5 months ago and I have misplaced my retainer. The last place I had it was at home and I haven’t traveled recently, so it has to be here. I’m not ready to replace my retainer because I had some unexpected expenses this month. I know I need to wear something on my teeth at least overnight and I am wondering if the whitening trays are okay to wear temporarily or is it better to just go without the whitening trays? Gina.

Gina,

Your free teeth-whitening trays should not be used as a retainer. There are several reasons why.

Why Teeth-Whitening Trays Shouldn’t Be Used as a Retainer

  • The material is different – Teeth whitening trays are flexible and comfortable to wear. The material is softer than a retainer, because bleaching trays are not designed to keep your teeth aligned. Metal or hard plastic makes retainers rigid so they will hold their shape and keep your smile aligned.
  • It’s too early after treatment – If it’s only been several months since you’ve completed orthodontic treatment, your teeth are still quite subject to movement. If you had been wearing a retainer for a year or more, they would be less likely to shift so quickly. At this point, you want to ensure that your teeth aren’t moving, and free teeth-whitening trays aren’t the answer.
  • Age is a factor – Although you didn’t mention your age, from the teen years into your early 20s, jawbone growth can cause your teeth to shift. It’s critical to wear a custom-made retainer to keep your teeth aligned.
  • Your free teeth-whitening trays really don’t fit – You received your free teeth-whitening trays before you completed orthodontic treatment. They really don’t fit the new position of your teeth. You shouldn’t use them. When you can afford it, ask your dentist for new custom trays. Some dentists provide free or discounted whitening trays as long as you keep your regularly scheduled appointments for cleaning and exams.
  • Consider the risks – Without a retainer, there is always the risk of your teeth shifting, so you shouldn’t go without it at all. If your teeth shift, you will have to resume orthodontic treatment for a short period. This can cost you more time and money than getting a new retainer.

We recommend that you contact your dentist and ask for the cost of a new retainer. If the cost is really out of your budget, ask if your dentist is willing to provide you with a payment plan to make it more affordable. Your free teeth-whitening trays will do more harm than good. There is no substitute for your retainer.

This post is sponsored by Plano, TX dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

 

Sedation Dentistry

What can I expect at my sister’s sedation dentistry appointment?

My sister asked me to go with her to the sedation dentist. She is going to get a root canal that she has been putting off for a long time. I convinced her to go to a sedation dentist because the toothache is making her nauseous. She is really nervous about dental appointments, too. I wasn’t expecting her to ask me to be the one to take her to the appointment. I get nervous about anything that has to do with medical or dental procedures. Of course I feel obligated to help her now. Last week, she had an appointment with her dentist to go over the procedure, but I didn’t go with her. I haven’t asked her any questions because I don’t want to give away my own nervousness. Exactly how do I need to help her? What happens if things at the dentist don’t go as planned? Thank you! Elise

Elise,

It’s good that you encouraged your sister to visit a sedation dentist. An infected tooth will only get worse without a root canal treatment. If it progressively travels throughout the body, the infection can become very dangerous for the patient.

You won’t be with your sister in the treatment room during the root canal procedure. You’ll be waiting in the reception area. A dental hygienist or assistant will give you verbal and written instructions for aftercare. Your sister probably already has those instructions, so without giving away your nervousness, you might be able to ask her to e-mail them to you.

Sedation Dentistry Aftercare

Your sister will be drowsy after her procedure, so you’ll be there to drive her home. She will need to rest, so after she’s home, you can check in on her periodically. There are a few things that can be done in advance:

  • Talk to your sister and help her decide if she will rest in bed or on a couch after her dental procedure.
  • Prepare the area so that when she gets home, she can rest right away.
  • Ensure she has on hand soft foods, cold packs, and whatever the dentist recommends to have at home after the procedure.
  • Prescriptions might be written in advance, and those can be filled and picked up before her dental appointment.

It’s very unlikely that there will be a medical issue during the procedure. The dentist and his or her staff will monitor your sister’s vital signs while she is under sedation dentistry. After you take your sister home, the dentist’s office will be available to answer any of your questions. In the unlikely event of a serious emergency, call 911. Keep in mind that it’s unlikely that there will be an emergency.

This post is sponsored by Plano, TX female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy. Dr. Lacy’s office is convenient to Addison, Allen, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Frisco, Garland, Highland Park, and Little Elm.

Sedation Dentistry

Can I use wine for sedation before my dentist’s appointment?

I don’t like artificial things in my body so sedation dentistry isn’t my first choice to help me relax. I don’t drink alcoholic beverages often so when I do they relax me and I usually sleep until the next morning, but I’m not drunk. I am wondering if wine is a good option to help me relax at the dentist. I would drink it maybe 15 minutes before I leave for my appointment. I would have my sister or a friend drive me to the dental appointment. I can arrive very relaxed and sleepy and get through the dental appointment without something artificial being used unnecessarily. Is this something a dentist would agree to? Thanks Leigh

Leigh – Although you want to relax during your dental appointment, you also should be able to respond to the dentist’s instructions and questions during that time. It sounds like alcohol would make you sleep through the entire procedure.

Sedation dentistry helps you relax. If your dentist has an important question for you, you would be able to respond. The medication you would receive is commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medication. It won’t knock you out cold. Only a small amount of the medication is given, so your system won’t be overloaded with an artificial substance. During the procedure, your vital signs are monitored and safety precautions are taken.

Speak with a sedation dentist about your concerns. You might be able to take something natural to help you relax before your appointment, but wine or other alcoholic beverages won’t be the preferred method.

If your current dentist offers sedation, ask what he or she uses to help people relax. Sometimes nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is all that’s needed. If you need a higher level of sedation, you and your dentist can discuss an agreeable method.

This post is sponsored by Plano, TX female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

Teeth whitening

Does free teeth whitening last as the whitening you have to pay for?

Does free teeth whitening last as long as other kinds of teeth whitening? I got a pack of free teeth whitening that looks like it might be a year’s supply. Will it last long enough for me to use it every week for a year or will it go bad and damage my teeth or do nothing at all. Do I need to use more of it than the usual whitening that you might get from a dentist? Thanks. Dolly

Dolly – You didn’t mention the source of your whitening gel. Depending on its origin, it might not work at all, or it might damage your teeth.

Carbamide peroxide is the whitening ingredient in bleaching gel that dentists use. Does the free teeth-whitening gel you received contain carbamide peroxide? Other whitening agents might not work as well. Carefully, examine the contents listed on the package before you use the gel. Also, examine the packing for an expiration date. That will help you determine how long the gel is expected to last.

Before you use any type of whitening gel, be sure that your teeth are clean and free of cavities and your gums are free of disease. Otherwise the teeth whitening process can be a big irritant.

Also, teeth whitening gel should be used as directed. Only keep the gel in contact with your teeth for the time directed on the packaging. Be certain to use custom bleaching trays. They will keep the gel sealed against your teeth and away from your gums. Don’t overdo it. You should not whiten your teeth every week for a year. If it’s overused, the bleaching gel can weaken your teeth and make them brittle. Some people who whiten their teeth too much find that their teeth are becoming darker—not water.

We suggest that you use caution and ask your dentist to examine your teeth and determine if any type of teeth whitening is safe for you to use. You might even ask your dentist to look at the free teeth-whitening gel before you use it—just to be sure that the ingredients are safe. If not, your dentist can provide you with a safe means of brightening your smile.

This post is sponsored by Plano, TX dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

Affordable Dentistry

If I get an affordable dentist does that mean the service will be substandard?

Can you give me some advice on an affordable dentist? We have a family of 6 and no dental insurance. My husband’s job provides medical insurance only and our 22 year old daughter has had a toothache for about 2 months now. We know she needs a root canal but we want it done right. And we don’t want a dentist who is just going to insist on pulling the tooth because we don’t have insurance. I have already been to an affordable dentist who I thought was disrespectful when I needed 2 dental fillings. They didn’t overcharge me. I just don’t like the way I was treated and now one of the fillings is getting loose. Now I’m wondering if some steps were left out and I got a substandard filling. I’m really concerned about my daughter now. I want a dentist who is affordable and will do a good job on her tooth. Am I asking for too much? Thanks. Sara T.

Sara – You’re not asking for too much. You can find an affordable dentist who gives quality care. Although you can ask for quotes by phone, you have to know what services each quote includes so you can make a good comparison. An estimate might give you an idea of each dentist’s fees, though.

A dentist’s fees vary based on the dentist’s skill, location, and the quality of materials used. Sometimes super-low rates involve using cheaper materials and shortcuts in procedures. If the cost for your daughter’s root canal treatment is significantly lower than other dentists in the area, it might not be a high-quality procedure. If shoddy work is done on her tooth, the root canal will need to be repeated, and she might lose the tooth altogether.

Select a few high-quality dentists. Ask friends for recommendations. Ask each dental office what is done to provide affordable care to patients who don’t have dental insurance. Payment plans or financing might be an option to help your family get affordable dental care.

This post is sponsored by Plano, TX dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

 

 

Sedation Dentistry

Can sedation dentistry be fatal?

All 4 of my wisdom teeth are impacted. I am having them pulled under sedation dentistry in January. I am managing the pain for the most part, but my schedule is too hectic to get the surgery done before next year. There is no way I can get the teeth pulled without being sedated, but the thought of it is making me nervous. Maybe I shouldn’t have done so much research on it, but I found some accounts of people who actually died from sedation at the dentist. Are there some hidden dangers that my dentist isn’t telling me about? If so maybe I will just take something that normally makes me sleepy so I can get through this. Thanks. Leticia

Leticia,

When you take any type of sedative—whether it’s from a doctor, dentist, or an anesthesiologist, there are always risks. There are also risks and side effects of any type of medication. But the risks are usually minor, and the odds of having a serious reaction with sedation dentistry are very small. The majority of dentists who use sedation don’t have any issues during their entire time of practicing dentistry.

Sedation dentistry is primarily administered through anti-anxiety medication. It will make you drowsy and relaxed, but not unconscious as with general anesthesia. General anesthesia has greater risks, but it is administered by a highly trained anesthesiologist—not by a dentist.

Before you receive any anti-anxiety medication, your sedation dentist will review your medical history and current medication. Your medication will be carefully checked against the anti-anxiety medication to ensure there are no conflicts. If you have an extensive medical history of complications, a conscientious sedation dentist will work with your primary care doctor to ensure you get the correct medication and dosage.

Dentists who administer sedation are required to receive extensive training, and have the legally regulated drugs and equipment for proper treatment. They are also trained on monitoring your vital signs to ensure your safety. The dentist is also trained to handle emergencies and to get appropriate medical help without trying to resolve the issue on his or her own in the dental office. Again, emergencies are rare.

Many patients benefit by speaking with a sedation dentist in advance. It’s an opportunity to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and ensure you understand what to expect before, during, and after your appointment. Ask about the dentist’s emergency protocol in the rare event of an emergency. The details you receive can help increase your comfort about your procedure. If you are dissatisfied with the consultation, find another dentist who can thoroughly address your concerns.

This post is sponsored by Plano, TX female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

Affordable Dentistry

How do I find an affordable dentist for a horrible toothache?

I am in serious need of an affordable dentist. My husband’s job was reduced to part time work. We kept dental insurance him only because it was too expensive to add dependents. I have a toothache that is getting worse. This happened to me in the past when I did have dental insurance and I ended up needing a root canal. There is no way we can afford to pay for a root canal out of pocket. I know I need to get help right away but I am not sure how to find an affordable dentist to help. What should I do? Thanks. Darla

 

Darla,

You do need to find an affordable dentist right away. When a toothache gets progressively worse, it’s a dental emergency that needs to be addressed. Your past experience shows that you understand the importance of taking care of your toothache quickly.

You can start by doing an Internet search for four to five emergency dentists in your area. Call the offices to find out if payment plans are offered. Some offices provide financing with no interest for qualified applicants. If you call an office that doesn’t offer either, move on to the next one on your list. You will be able to find a dentist that will work with your budget.

Some patients find success in getting an affordable dental insurance plan that doesn’t have limitations for pre-existing conditions. That’s an option only if you can afford to pay for an insurance plan and get approved for it quickly. A low-premium insurance plan can save you a lot of money in the long run.

Most likely, you can find an affordable dentist, but if for some reason you can’t, visit your medical doctor. He or she will be able to determine if your tooth is infected and if antibiotics are needed. It will at least address the infection. Your medical doctor might be able to influence a dentist to see you right away.

Be assured that you will be able to get the treatment you need from a dentist who will make it affordable for you.

This post is sponsored by Plano dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

 

Teeth whitening

Can I give my free teeth whitening to my husband?

My new dentist gives patients free teeth whitening after their second dental cleaning appointment. I don’t want to bleach my teeth because I have crowns on 2 teeth and I don’t want my own teeth to be whiter than the crowns. I can’t use the whitening and the office doesn’t do substitutions for other services. My husband is interested in whitening his teeth and he doesn’t have any crowns or anything to worry about. The lady at the front desk at the dentist’s office was hesitant when I mentioned that I would just give the kit to my husband, and then she told me that the kits are only for active patients of my dentist. Is there any reason why he shouldn’t use it or were they just trying to keep the kit and save money because I can’t use it? Thanks Gemma

Gemma,

Even if the teeth whitening kit is free, a professional kit from a dentist is customized for each patient. Bleaching trays are made based on impressions of your teeth to ensure they fit well and provide the best results. It sounds like your husband isn’t a patient at your dentist’s office. Otherwise, he would eventually receive a free whitening kit of his own.

The kit would be incomplete without customized trays for your husband. This puts him at risk for getting not enough—or too much—bleaching gel on his teeth and gums. Store-bought bleaching trays are not a reliable and effective way to put the bleaching gel in contact with his teeth.

Before teeth whitening is completed, an examination is needed to determine if bleaching will help or harm your husband’s teeth. In some cases, the gel will make stains on teeth more noticeable. If your husband is a candidate for whitening, he should have a professional dental cleaning first. This will make the whitening treatments more effective. Still, he needs professional whitening trays.

As a suggestion, your husband can ask his dentist about whether or not free teeth whitening is available, or how it can be made affordable for him. Many dentists are willing to work with patients to make a bright smile affordable.

This post is sponsored by Plano female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

 

Sedation Dentistry

Will insurance cover sedation dentistry?

I need 3 fillings replaced. I’ve had the fillings since I was 15 years old. 2 weeks ago one of them cracked. It broke a piece of the tooth off so bad that I had to go to an emergency dentist. He said I now need a crown. I am dreading this work that needs to be done. The dentist saw my anxiety level increases as he was explaining everything that needs to be done. He said that a sedation  dentist might help me relax and if I wanted to I could go to another dentist who offers it. I’ve haven’t been to a dentist for about 5 months because my old dentist left his practice. Now the thought of being sedated by a new dentist and having this be the first major work done for me is making me more nervous. Is this something that insurance covers?

Whether or not insurance provides benefits for sedation dentistry depends on your individual plan and the type of sedation offered. Some procedures are billed to dental insurance, and others are billed to dental insurance. In advance of your procedure, the dental office can contact your insurance companies to determine if any benefits are provided. Keep in mind that it is unlikely that insurance will cover the entire cost, but some benefits might be provided.

If sedation dentistry is used during an appointment with an oral surgeon, an anesthesiologist might be present to administer it. The insurance will likely provide some benefits for the sedation, which is often referred to as twilight.

Sedation at a dental office for general procedures is usually nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation. Anti-anxiety medication is given for oral conscious sedation, and insurance generally doesn’t cover it.

You can search for experienced sedation dentists who use different levels of sedation, depending on your procedure and anxiety level. Ask about each dentist’s training, credentials, and experience. Schedule a consultation with two or three sedation dentists and get a feel for how you are treated as a patient. If you are comfortable with the dentist and his or her office environment, it might be easier to trust the dentist with giving you medication to help you relax.

Remember that you will still be conscious during your appointment and able to respond to the dentist’s questions, and to let the dentist know if you are experiencing any discomfort. Your vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure.

Ensure you are comfortable and have enough information about sedation dentistry and your dental procedures before you schedule an appointment to have your dental work completed. It help your appointment to go smoothly.

This post is sponsored by Plano, TX female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

Teeth whitening

Is this free teeth whitening damaging my tooth enamel?

I got free teeth whitening a couple of months ago and I think that it is started to damage my tooth enamel. My teeth are starting to a weird color. Also they are super sensitive to anything cold. Sometimes even if I am not drinking anything cold, I get this powerful shock in my teeth that really hurts. I took ibuprofen last night and that seemed to help. At first I really thought the stuff was working because my teeth looked whiter. Now they don’t look or feel good. I guess I should stop using it. Can it permanently damage my tooth enamel? Thanks. Joseph

Joseph – You should stop using the free teeth whitening. You didn’t mention how often you use the whitening gel, but if you are using it more than once a month, you are probably using it too often.

Any type of bleaching gel, if used frequently, can weaken your tooth enamel and even discolor your teeth. If bleaching gel is professional strength, usually touchup treatments are needed once or twice a year. If you smoke or drink daily, touchups may need to be more frequent, perhaps quarterly.

But bleaching your teeth daily or weekly should be avoided. Teeth whitening treatments that are unsupervised by a dentist can damage your tooth enamel. Your teeth can become translucent and very sensitive.

Schedule an appointment with a dentist to examine your teeth and to look at the ingredients in the bleaching gel you are using. The dentist will be able to determine if your free teeth whitening gel is causing the sensitivity in your teeth and if it has done any lasting damage to your teeth.

Some dentists offer free teeth whitening or discounted teeth whitening to patients who maintain their regular cleaning and examination appointments. This is a safe way to brighten your smile and get predictable results. Your dentist will monitor the progress and decrease or increase the strength of the bleaching gel, depending on how it is affecting your teeth. He or she will also let you know how frequently you should do touchups.

Schedule an examination with an experienced cosmetic dentist as soon as possible.

This post is sponsored by Plano dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.