All posts by AllSmiles

Teeth whitening

How do I dilute teeth whitening gel I got for free?

I am going to be in my friend’s wedding in September. I am wearing Invisalign. I love the aligners because they are so clear, but my teeth are not white. My cousin get free take home whitening gel from her dentist. She has more than she can use before the expiration date so she is giving some of it away. She gave me 4 tubes and told me that I probably can get a month worth of whitening from the tubes. So I am going to do the whitening myself at home. I wear Invisalign so I figure that the trays can serve a dual purpose. I wore the trays with the gel in them for the past few nights. Now I am wondering if the gel is too strong because my gums are burning. Is there any way to dilute the gel? How do it? Thanks. Darcy

Darcy – It is exciting to be able to get free teeth-whitening gel that works! But Invisalign aligners are made specifically to align your teeth, not to whiten them. They are not designed to support teeth bleaching gel. The structure of bleaching trays is different from teeth aligning trays. You may ruin your Invisalign aligners and damage your gums if you continue to put bleaching gel in the trays. Teeth bleaching trays are designed to keep bleaching gel sealed against your teeth and away from your gums. It is best to use customized trays.

Dentists provide bleaching gel based on the causes of stains in a patient’s teeth, the level of sensitivity the bleaching gel may cause for the patient, and the fact that custom bleaching trays are provided. A teeth whitening system that works for one patient may not work for another patient. If the bleaching gel is too strong for your teeth, you are unable to dilute it. You may need a get that has a lower concentration of the bleaching agent. But the problem may be due to using Invisalign aligners instead of custom teeth-whitening trays.

Although you received free teeth-whitening gel from your cousin, it might not be the best option for you. If you want your teeth whitened, speak with your dentist about your options for receiving it during your Invisalign treatment. It’s the safest way to get it done.

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

Affordable Dentistry

Did I get ripped off by an affordable dentist?

I did a lot of research to find an affordable dentist. My dental insurance expired in March because my hours were cut to part-time work. I don’t mind paying out of pocket but I guess this is not at all what I was expecting. When I got to the dentist I needed digital x-rays. The hygienist told me that it looks like I have gum disease, so I needed a deep cleaning. The dentist found 2 teeth that he says needs porcelain inlays, and I have a follow up appointment in 2 weeks. I am beginning to wonder if this dentist is trying to line her pockets a little thicker. What about this dental visit says this is really an affordable dentist? Last night I started thinking about switching dentists but I am concerned that the new dentist will want to repeat some of the same work I had done already and it will cost me even more money. Should I have left the office when they told me I needed a deep cleaning?  Thanks Rozalia

Rozalia,

There are many variables in the cost of dental care, including the cost of living and operating a business in a certain area, an individual dentist’s fees, and how that dentist makes treatment affordable. Affordability may be offered in the form of lower fees for treatment, but it can also be provided through payment plans or financing.

A deep dental cleaning is not uncommon. A buildup of tartar, inflamed gums, or periodontal disease will prompt a conscientious hygienist to complete a deep cleaning. Scaling and root planing are completed to ensure that plaque beneath your gumline is removed. This will help your gum tissue adhere to your tooth roots and ensure your teeth are stable. Otherwise, your teeth can loosen. Although you should have been given a reason for the deep periodontal cleaning, ask your dental hygienist why he or she thought it was necessary.

X-rays are a routine part of ensuring your teeth and the cavities of your mouth are in good condition. A panoramic x-ray examines your teeth, mouth, and jaw. It is taken every few years. Bite-wing x-rays assist your dentist with early detection of cavities, and they are taken yearly.

Depending on the previous dates of your dental cleanings and x-rays, the dental care you received was likely routine. Ask your dentist why she is recommending porcelain inlays instead of composite fillings. Carefully consider the reason inlays are recommended. In the long term, they may last longer than fillings in the teeth would.

You will likely receive reasonable explanations for the diagnosis and treatment. If you decide to switch to a new dentist, ask for fee estimates, and inquire about what that particular practice does to make dentistry affordable for its patients.

 

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

Sedation Dentistry

Is sedation dentistry like anesthesia?

Is sedation dentistry like anesthesia during outpatient surgery? I’ve received a few postcards from new dentists in the area who do sedation. My dentist doesn’t offer it at all, but I am not attached to him because I’ve only been going to the practice for a year. I like him, but I feel no commitment. I think my anxiety at the dentist would be much better if I got sedation so I am thinking of making the switch. Before I get talked into it I would just like more information on how it works. Is sedation like anesthesia? Thanks Kerry

Kerry,

The main difference between sedation dentistry and general anesthesia is that with sedation dentistry you are awake. There are different levels of the treatment, depending on your level of anxiety. A sedation dentist may offer some or all of the levels.

The levels of sedation are nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. The treatment makes you drowsy. Some patients actually fall asleep through the dental procedure, including tooth extractions, root canal treatment, dental crowns, or whatever treatment they are receiving. Since you won’t be unconscious, you will be able to respond to your dentist’s questions and commands throughout your procedure.

Sedation dentistry relieves a lot of anxiety before, during, and after your dental procedure. Often just the anticipation of a dental appointment can make you nervous. Your sedation dentist will speak with you about the cause of your anxiety. He or she will match your anxiety level with the procedure being done and determine whether you need nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation.

After your dental appointment, you will still be drowsy. Like outpatient surgery, you will need transportation and need to take the rest of the day off.

We recommend that you visit at least two sedation dentists. The levels of sedation offered can vary, so you may want to find a dentist who offers at least two levels. Before you receive any dental treatment with sedation, the dentist will review your medical history to ensure you are a candidate for it. Ensure you are comfortable with the dentist first before you receive sedation. Your trust in his or her qualifications will give you confidence in the dentist during your appointment.

 

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

Affordable Dentistry

Need to find a dentist with reasonable prices

My adult niece just got approved for SSDI. She has never been able to work a job that provided enough hours for her to get dental insurance. She hasn’t been to a good dentist since 2012! I took her to a dental clinic but the service was so bad and she was treated so rudely that we had to leave before her dental cleaning was over. She still needs some significant dental work completed. I don’t want the solution to be to simply pull her decayed teeth. I really want them fixed. She already has some serious self-esteem issues, so the solution isn’t to pull teeth. I am working on getting her dental coverage but this is a very slow process. I am afraid that she will get a tooth infection if I don’t do something soon. There is a very strong odor on her breath. What should I do to find a dentist with reasonable prices? I will pay out of pocket if I have to. Thank you Eva

 

Eva – We compliment you for taking care of your sister and being so concerned about her oral health. The oral health of people who need public assistance is often neglected. Your proactive approach will really help your sister in the long term.

Most often, government programs provide limited benefits for dental treatment. Dental cleanings are often covered, but teeth are often extracted rather than restored. Speak with your sister’s case worker or social worker to find out what dental coverage is available. The dental insurance provider can provide with more information on plan provisions.

If you want to get dental treatment right away, consider your own dentist as a start. Explain the situation and your willingness to pay for your sister’s dental care. Your dentist may be willing to provide you with a payment plan or financing. If your dentist isn’t able to help, call a few dentists, including those who accept Medicare patients. Check for reviews of each dentist to ensure your sister will get quality care. Don’t be afraid to switch dentist’s if things don’t turn out well.

Also, you may be able to find inexpensive dental coverage for basic dental care for your sister. Even if you are only able to get limited insurance, some coverage will help you pay for the costs.

We wish you the best outcome possible.

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

Teeth whitening

Expiration date for free teeth whitening?

I have been looking for the best sources for free teeth whitening. I actually found a few websites to get it from but then when it was time to check out, I noticed that the shipping and handling was about $20 and up. So that’s not exactly free. I can probably get something for that price from Walmart. My sister lives in GA and I was talking to her about it last week. She said that she got her teeth whitened from her dentist and she has more free teeth whitening gel than she could ever use so she can send me some of that. I think that is a smart move. She can’t remember when she got the gel or if it goes bad after a while. Is there an expiration date for it? – Gabriele

Gabriele – A box of whitening gel should have an expiration date on it. But if you have tubes that are not in a box, depending on the brand, the date may not be on the tube. Typically, the gel lasts up to one year if it is not refrigerated, or up to two years if it is kept in the refrigerator. We don’t recommend that you use your sister’s extra bleaching gel in order to get your teeth whitened free.

A dentist dispenses whitening gel based on each patient’s case. The strength of gel and the brand can be varied according to each patient’s needs. Whitening gel that is right for one patient may be too weak—or too strong—for another patient.

Also, free teeth whitening supplies from a dentist are meant to be used with custom bleaching trays that help the gel penetrate your teeth while keeping it off of your gums. What type of trays will you use for teeth whitening? How will you ensure the professional-strength gel stays in contact with your teeth and doesn’t ooze out and burn your gums?

You will get better, more predictable results, from your dentist. Your teeth and gums will be examined first to determine if it is the best time to whiten them, or if there are other dental issues that need to be addressed first.

Your dentist will also provide you with custom trays and bleaching gel that is right for your circumstances. Some dentists provide free teeth whitening to patients who maintain regular dental cleaning appointment. Speak with your dentist about how he or she can make teeth whitening affordable for you.

 

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

Cosmetic Dentistry, Sedation Dentistry

Will sedation help me get all my teeth fixed in one appointment?

I was without dental insurance for 5 years. During that time all I could afford to do was get my teeth cleaned once a year. Before my insurance ended I had major problems with my teeth. So the crowns and fillings she recommended were put on hold. Now I have some major cavities. I am guessing that I will need at least 3 caps on my teeth. One of the teeth is starting to hurt so I hope it doesn’t need a root canal. I am not a person who is usually afraid of the dentist but all the work I think that I will need is making me lean toward a sedation dentist. Just the number of teeth that need to be fixed is making me nervous. I am wondering if a sedation dentist will do all of this work in one appointment. If so it will be worth it for me to find a sedation dentist. Thanks Cheryl

 

Cheryl,

It is good that you are already thinking about seeing a sedation dentist. The amount of work that needs to be completed on your teeth makes sedation appropriate. This treatment allows a dentist to accomplish as much as possible during a single visit.

In order to determine what dental treatment you really need and how much of it can be completed in a single visit, an examination and x-rays are required.

We suggest that you first find two or three experienced sedation dentists who are also cosmetic dentists. Schedule a consultation with each dentist. Find out what levels of sedation are offered and how the dentist determines which level of sedation is right for you.

An examination and x-rays will reveal whether you need root canal treatment and dental crowns. A cosmetic dentist will most likely select treatment options that preserve as much of your tooth structure as possible. At times, porcelain inlays or onlays are a more conservative way to treat teeth. This avoids the need to shave down the tooth structure to accommodate a dental crown.

During the consultation, ask about the forms of payment that are accepted in addition to your dental insurance. You will likely have out-of-pocket costs.

Choose a sedation dentist that you’re comfortable with. Ensure that you’re also comfortable with the staff and office environment. The right dentist will ensure your comfort and give you a beautiful smile.

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

 

Affordable Dentistry, Dentures

Looking for an affordable dentist for good dentures

I just got new dentures three years ago. The upper dentures fit great but the lower dentures are very loose and regularly come off. I can’t even eat soft foods like applesauce and yogurt without them lifting up. The dentist tried 4 or 5 times to reline them but it is just not working. I know that I am going to need new dentures. I am not going to get them from this dentist. I have to find a dentist who knows people have a budget and get some good dentures from that person. I am wondering how to go about this. Do I just have to do a random search? – Tamar

Tamar – It is not normal for new lower dentures to regularly come off. If they do come off regularly, either they were not properly fit initially, or previous to receiving dentures, you may have experienced jawbone shrinkage, which would make it difficult to keep a denture in.

If your dentures have been repeatedly relined in the past, you are correct that you probably need new dentures. If you have experienced jawbone shrinkage, bone grafting can build your bone back up so that it can support a denture. Affordable dental implants can be used to stabilize your dentures and prevent further jawbone shrinkage. When your dentures are secured with dental implants, it will be easier to eat and speak with them.

Ask family members or friends for recommendations on a dentist who does high-quality work. Don’t sacrifice quality to find the lowest costs on dentures. Take the time to find a cosmetic dentist to provide you with dentures that fit well and look natural. Ask about payment plans or financing that will help you pay for dentures according to your budget.

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

Sedation Dentistry

I have PTS and need my service dog at dental appointments

Hi. I am a Vet with PTS and there are certain situations that make my anxiety worse. Before the incident that caused the PTS I was nervous about dentists appointments but now it’s over the top. I agreed to sedation but under the condition that my service dog is present with me for dental procedures. My dog isn’t just a service dog. If in any way I am being harmed she will come to my defense. It is just the state of my being drowsy and out of full control that makes me uneasy. I’ve had the dog at the office before but when I told my hygienist that I needed to bring the dog for any dental procedure beyond my cleaning it was clear to me that she doesn’t like dogs. I could tell by the way the conversation went. I know its not up to her but I can’t take any flack about this. I just can’t. Do you have any suggestions about how to deal with this? I am thinking about switching to a woman dentist for a little more compassion by the dentist and staff. Jamison

Jamison,

Your anxiety and the history of it make it understandable that dental appointments are a challenge for you. Sedation dentistry is the right choice. Your oral health is important, so whatever is needed for you to achieve it should be respected.

Dental offices have different policies about animals in the office, but they should be understanding and respectful of your service dog. Speak with your dentist in person to explain the cause of your anxiety and why it’s so important to be accompanied by your service dog.

Sedation dentists understand anxiety. They are empathetic to patients who are anxious, and they are interested in knowing the source of your anxiety. Your candid conversation will help your dentist and the staff members properly care for your needs.

If for some reason your wishes are not respected, contact several other sedation dentists’ offices and request a consultation with each dentist. You will find the right dentist who will make the effort to ensure your dental visit is comfortable and productive.

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

 

Teeth whitening

Are lemon juice and baking soda a safe way to whiten my teeth for free?

I have been looking for ways to whiten my teeth for free or cheap. I guess nothing is free but I found some DIY ways to get it done. I know that baking soda can whiten teeth but I found a few sites that said that fresh lemon juice can make the baking soda more effective. I have been trying it for a couple of weeks but my teeth only look a little whiter. It is very slight. I told a friend about what I was doing and she asked me if the acid from the lemons will eventually mess up my teeth. I just did some more research and I think she might be right, but the information conflicts what was recommended in the first place. Is adding the fresh lemon juice to the baking soda harmful? Agapi

Agapi – Acid erodes tooth enamel. Citrus fruits, including lemons, are acidic. Lemons are highly acidic, and if regularly applied to your teeth, will cause damage your tooth enamel and cause decay. Your teeth won’t have the whiteness and gloss that you want.

Citric acid is often contained in cleaning products, which gives you an idea of how powerful it is. It’s also in soda, which can erode your tooth enamel with contact and create excess stomach acid. Excess stomach acid can create acid reflux, which can further damage your teeth.

It is recommended that you thoroughly rinse your mouth after you eat or drink acidic foods, and drink plenty of water. And definitely stay away from the lemon juice on your teeth. Avoid brushing your teeth right after consuming acidic foods or drinks.

It’s good that you listened to your friend and did extra research on the effects of lemon juice on your teeth. Talk with your dentist about how to affordably and safely get your teeth whitened. Some dentists offer free whitening if you stay current with dental cleanings. It’s the best way to keep your teeth enamel and get a bright smile.

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

Affordable Dentistry, Comfort Dentistry

Need an affordable dentist that does great work

I love my dentist. He is great for cleanings, fillings, etc., but I don’t trust him to do my cosmetic dentistry work. I asked him about training in cosmetic dentistry, but he really doesn’t have much. He referred me to a colleague in a nearby town, but this dentist is way on the upper end for cost. I need too much work done to pay that much. I don’t know any cosmetic dentists. I know I can do an internet search to find one, but do you have any suggestions on how I find an affordable dentist that really does great work? – Maya

Maya – If you know friends who have had cosmetic dentistry, you can ask for recommendations for a dentist who does high-quality work. You may also consider asking neighbors, workmates, or other contacts if they have recommendations.

During your Internet searches, find out what training the dentist received in cosmetic dentistry, where it was received, and what credentials he or she has. Also consider how much experience the dentist has in cosmetic dentistry and whether or not he or she stays current through continuing education. Check for a smile gallery of before-and-after pictures on the dentist’s website. These considerations will help determine if the dentist produces high-quality results.

For your concerns about finding an affordable dentist, the website should indicate whether the dentist accepts insurance, or offers payment plans or financing.  He or she may offer to do the work in phases to make it more affordable for you. You can call the dentist’s office for specific information.

Keep in mind that high-quality costs more. It’s true of most goods and services, and that’s often because it costs more for the provider of the services or goods to purchase or provide high-quality services or products. So even though the services you receive can be make affordable for you, expect to pay a little more than average if you want outstanding cosmetic dentistry.

After you have a few dentists you would like to consider, schedule consultation appointments, to help make your final decision.

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