All posts by AllSmiles

Teeth whitening

Can I use my sister’s free teeth whitening gel?

My sister’s dentist gives her free teeth whitening gel with every dental cleaning because she has been with the office for more than 5 years. I looked in her frig over the weekend and she has an accumulation of gel and I asked her for some it. I have been wanting to whiten my teeth for years but I haven’t been able to afford it. I would think that she would gladly give me some of her gel because she can’t use it all, but she went into this story about not knowing if I should do it on my on because what if it’s too strong for my teeth and yahdee yahdee yahdee… Is there a problem with me using some of the gel that she has? Thanks. Jyneen

Jyneen – Your sister has a valid concern. It is possible that the whitening gel is too strong for your teeth. If your teeth are sensitive, a lower-strength bleaching gel can help you keep the gel in contact with your teeth longer and get them white without causing sensitivity.

There is also the question of how you will apply the gel. Do you have customized bleaching trays? Trays that are made specifically for your teeth will prevent the gel from oozing out and burning your gums. Are you sure that whitening your teeth with gel is the correct solution for removing the stains? Depending on the cause of the stains, bleaching gel can make the stains more noticeable.

If you decide to use your sister’s gel, you may want to ask your own dentist a few questions to find out if whitening your teeth yourself is a good idea. Find out the percentage of carbamide peroxide the bleaching gel contains to help determine if it’s safe for your use, or if a lower strength is needed to safely whiten your teeth.

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

Sedation Dentistry

Nitrous sedation at the dentist doesn’t work for my daughter

My 9 yr old daughter is at a new dentist that she really likes. We’ve had our 3rd visit to the new dentist. Even though my daughter likes the dentist and her staff, she still get really nervous. This is all coming from the previous family dentist who I thought was nice but later found out intimidates kids if they even look like they don’t want to be there. I describe it as passive aggressive or nice/nasty. Kids can pick up on that behavior quickly and my daughter did. I didn’t know it was a problem because I didn’t usually go back with her to the room for cleanings. I thought she was in good hands and she never complained. I didn’t find out about it until my niece was visiting and talking about her own dental appointment. Then my daughter started talking about her previous dentist. After I found out that our previous dentist was trouble, I quickly switched my daughter and our whole family to a new practice. As I mentioned in the beginning, she is still nervous. Now her nervousness is obvious to me. The new dentist gives her nitrous which really doesn’t seem to calm her much. I am not happy about asking for something stronger, but is there something else that I should ask for? Zuli

Zuli – Yes, there are safe oral sedatives that dentists use for children. You can ask your family dentist if she uses oral sedatives for children who need more help relaxing than what nitrous oxide provides.

You will need to inform your dentist of any medications, over-the-counter medications, and supplements your daughter takes. Find out what medication your dentist uses and do your own research on it. Look for possible reactions with the sedative that may interfere with medication or supplements your daughter takes. If you are uncertain about possible reactions, ask your pharmacist and your daughter’s pediatrician about it.

Oral conscious sedation is a new phase of dentistry for your daughter. You may consider increasing her comfort level with this new phase by accompanying her in the treatment room for at least a few visits.

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

 

Affordable Dentistry

Need cheap root canal and filling for rotten tooth

i have a tooth that had a cap on it. the cap was probably 12 yrs old and it cracked last week. the tooth is starting to get really sensitive without the cap. i am really thinking that i need another root canal in the tooth. i don’t have dental insurance so i just want to get it filled this time. i know something needs to be done. other than looking for a dentist on google is there a way to find a dentist who will do a cheap root canal and fill the tooth? thx ethan

Ethan – Most dentists will provide you with a root canal treatment, and make it affordable for you. Select a few dentists, call them, and ask about payment plans or arrangements for patients who don’t have dental insurance.

You should know that if your tooth is so damaged that it needed a dental crown, a dental filling won’t be enough to protect it. A new crown will be required. You will be able to wear a temporary crown while the new one is being made for you.

An examination is required to determine the correct treatment for your tooth. It is possible that you don’t need another root canal treatment, and that a new crown is all that’s needed. While your tooth is unprotected, you can expect to feel sensitivity.

As soon as possible, make the calls to dental offices so your tooth can be treated. Without the crown, the tooth is weak. Prompt treatment can prevent further damage to the tooth. If there is further damage to the tooth, it will be more expensive to restore.

Don’t neglect quality to find the cheapest treatment available. If the restoration of your tooth isn’t done correctly, it will need to be repeated. And that will cost you more money in the long term.

 

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

Teeth whitening

Switch dentists to get free teeth whitening for life?

I can get whitening trays and bleaching gel from my dentist for a little more than $300. This is something I have been trying to negotiate with or make payment plans on but the office doesn’t permit it anymore because they’ve been burned by too many people when they did offer payment plans or discounts.

After searching online I see several dentists in my town who offer free teeth whitening for life. Now that sounds like a good deal to me. I am wondering though, what’s the catch? Some of the dentists even mention that they will give you custom trays too. This has me considering switching dentists so I don’t have to spend $300 on something that could be free. Is it worth the switch? Carlene

Carlene – Before you switch dentists, think about the reasons that you like your dentist, the office, the staff, and whether or not you can get those same things from another dental office. Consider where the office is located. Is convenience going to be an issue? Make a list of the pros and cons of making a switch.

If you still want to explore your options, choose two or three dentists who offer free teeth whitening. Find out what the whitening kit  includes. Is it just the bleaching gel, or are custom trays included? If the bleaching trays are lost or damaged, is there a fee to replace them? What kind of bleaching gel will you receive, and how effective is it? How long are you required to be a patient before you receive this benefit?

If you are still interested in free whitening from a particular dentist, schedule a consultation to see the office, and meet the dentist and his or her staff. Some dentists who offer this complimentary service have exclusions. For instance, in some cases, Medicare or Medicaid patients are not eligible for the free service.

Get the information you need to make an informed decision before you switch.

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

Sedation Dentistry

What is done to make sure sedation at the dentist is safe?

I keep reading reading that sedation dentistry is safe. Will you please give me a little more information on why it is considered safe? This is a procedure that I interested in but I feel like I don’t know enough about it. I don’t want more trouble at a dentist’s office than I came in with. What is done at a dentist’s office to make sure I am safe with sedation? Thanks. Dionna

Dionna,

Most states require that dentists receive training and certification in sedation dentistry. Precautions are taken to ensure safe and effective treatment before, during, and after your dental appointment.

  • Before sedation is given to you, a review of your medical history will be completed to determine if you are a candidate for sedation. Be certain to tell your dentist about all medications and supplements you take, as well as any allergies you may have.
  • The sedation methods include common substances to help you relax—nitrous oxide and anti-anxiety medication.
  • During your dental procedure, your vital signs will be monitored. So in advance of your appointment, the dental staff will ensure that the monitoring equipment is working properly.
  • Your blood pressure and oxygen level will be monitored. Many dentists use an EKG to observe your heart rate. This is always true for patients with a risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • Although sedation dentistry is safe, emergency equipment and emergency medication are readily available.
  • For oral surgery, all post-operative materials will be prepared in advance.

Before you choose a sedation dentist, ask about his or her training experience. Find out how often the dentist uses sedation. You will also want to know what levels of sedation the dentist uses (nitrous oxide, conscious oral, or IV sedation).

If you have additional questions about what to expect before, during, and after your dental procedure, don’t hesitate to ask them.

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

Affordable Dentistry, Root Canal Treatment

Can’t afford a dentist? Five ways to prevent a dental emergency.

Can’t afford a dentist? You may be interested in ways to prevent a dental emergency. Here are five:

  1. Brush and floss daily. You should brush your teeth twice daily and thoroughly floss between all of your teeth every day. Why? Brushing and flossing remove trapped food between your teeth that can otherwise lead to decay and plaque. Decayed teeth progressively worsen and lead to cavities. Untreated cavities progress and eventually require a root canal treatment. Plaque can lead to gum inflammation, causing gums to bleed and eventually, full-blown gum disease results.
  2. Wear a mouth guard when playing sports. Mouth guards protect the teeth, gums, cheeks, tongue, and lips. A significant blow to any one of these areas can lead you to a dental chair and a dental bill that is more expensive than a mouth guard.
  3. Don’t use your teeth to cut things or to try to open things. Trying to open a package, a bottle, or anything else with your teeth can seriously cut your gums or harm your teeth. The progressive pain will require the attention of a dentist. And an urgent care or emergency room trip won’t do. You may receive pain medication or antibiotics. But you will also be referred to a dentist for an examination.
  4. Avoid chewing ice or popcorn kernels, and don’t bite hard objects. These items can weaken your teeth and cause them crack or chip your teeth. An untreated crack or chip can worsen with time and require dental bonding or a dental crown.
  5. Regularly get your teeth professionally cleaned. And that applies even if you don’t have dental insurance. Get your teeth cleaned anyway. The out-of-pocket cost to get your teeth professionally cleaned helps prevent periodontal (gum) disease. It also assists in the early detection of cavities and other dental problems that, if left untreated, can escalate into more serious and more costly issues.

Remember that a dentist’s priority is to help you maintain good oral health. He or she will help you receive preventive care that is affordable for you.

If you have an unavoidable dental emergency, most dentists schedule time in each day for emergency appointments, so call right away for an examination.

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

Pediatric Dentistry

Does my son need a mouth guard if he still has his primary teeth?

My 6 year old is in a junior soccer league. He doesn’t have his permanent teeth yet so I am wondering if a mouth guard is necessary. Thanks a lot. Nora

Nora – From a dentist’s perspective, a mouth guard is a must. Mouth guards protect the gums and teeth, and they absorb the impact to the face or mouth.

Although your son still has primary teeth, they need to be preserved. Primary teeth hold the position for permanent teeth and help guide them in place. When a primary tooth is missing, the other teeth will begin to drift toward the missing space. This can impact the growth of permanent teeth.

Trauma to the gums can be serious. A gash or cut in the gums can be a painful experience. If it’s serious, stitches may be needed. A mouth guard can help prevent or lessen the seriousness of such trauma. In addition to protect the teeth and gums, a mouth guard can protect the lips, jawbone, tongue, and cheeks.

The small investment for your son’s safety is less costly than an actual injury. Speak with your son’s dentist about your options for protecting his teeth during sports activities.

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

Dental Implant, Root Canal Treatment

1 dentist recommends a dental implant and the other a root canal

I saw 2 dentists about a tooth that has been giving me a lot of problems. 1 dentist recommends a dental implant and the other a root canal. Which would be better? Marcel

Marcel – If a natural tooth can be preserved without causing you pain and discomfort, or compromising your oral health, that’s always the better option. Do you have information on the condition of the tooth? Were you told what to expect in two or three years—or even less time—if you choose to have your natural tooth restored?

These are factors that can help you make a decision. It may also be helpful to know that a 2008 study published in the Journal of Endodontics shows that a dental implant is more likely to need maintenance that a root canal treatment.

The three-year study followed 129 dental implants and 149 root canal treatments. While only 1% of the root canal treatments needed further attention, 12% of the dental implants needed intervention.

Of course there are times when dental implants are the best option. In fact, they are the most natural looking, feeling, and functioning form of tooth replacement.

In addition to statistics, you can consider getting opinions from specialists—perhaps an endodontist (specializes in root canal treatments) and a prosthodontist (specializes in tooth restoration and dental implants) or a dental implant surgeon. Taking a little extra time to explore your options will give you confidence in making a decision about your treatment.

 

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

Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening trays cut my gums

I got a free teeth whitening kit. They trays are supposed to be one size fits all but for some reason they cut my gums either when I put them on or take them off. They haven’t cut my gums every time, but last night the cut was pretty bad and it bled for about 15 minutes. My gums still hurt and now I am afraid to put the trays back on because I think the gel will burn on the cut. Is there a way I can smooth out the edges on the trays so they fit right? Thanks. Aleis

Aleis – We don’t recommend that you try to adjust or smooth the trays. If you trim the trays too much, even after your gums heal, the bleaching gel can burn your gums overall because the gel will spill out over the edges.

We do recommend that you discontinue using the trays and get properly fitting trays from your dentist. The trays from your dentist will not be one-size-fits all trays. They will be based on impressions of your teeth and be customized to ensure that you get maximum results from bleaching gel.

Many patients hesitate to ask for teeth whitening from their dentist because of the cost. But you don’t know until you ask. You may be surprised at how your dentist will work with your budget to make teeth whitening affordable for you. Some dentists even offer free teeth whitening. Find out what options your dentist offers patients to safely brighten your smile.

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

 

Affordable Dentistry, General Dentistry

What can I use to fill my own cavities if I can’t afford a dentist?

At my last visit to the dentist I found out that I have 2 cavities that need to be filled. I put off the appointment for the fillings because I don’t have dental insurance anymore. Also since then we’ve had some emergency home repairs and I have to put off the dental appt again. The place I go to is a pretty big practice and they are always trying to upsell me on something so I am not about to ask for any favors on paying for my tooth fillings. What can I use to fill my own cavities? Thanks. Titus

Titus – The techniques, materials, and tools that are needed to successfully remove decay from your tooth, clean the tooth, prepare it for filling, and place the filling are unique to skilled dentists.

Even if you had access to the necessary items to fill a cavity, you would not be able to complete the procedure on yourself. Please don’t attempt it. You can cause damage to your teeth, or inadequately complete the procedure and cause more problems than the cavities present.

Cavities that are left untreated, or that are improperly treated, can result in further decay or infection that becomes more difficult and more costly to treat. If your current dentist is unable to provide you with ways to make the treatment you need affordable, find a dentist who will.

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