Smile for Life Blog » Dr Lerner Lemongello http://www.smileforlife.com/blog Just another WordPress weblog Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:52:02 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8.3 en hourly 1 Will teeth grinding affect my jawbone? http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/will-teeth-grinding-affect-my-jawbone http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/will-teeth-grinding-affect-my-jawbone#comments Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:52:02 +0000 Dr Lerner & Dr Lemongello http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/will-teeth-grinding-affect-my-jawbone/
Q.
I have been unknowingly grinding and clenching my teeth. And now my gums have receded and my teeth are worn down. Will grinding and clenching for years affect my bone tissue? Will my jaw start to shrink? Can I get dentures without needing a bone graft? How much would a whole mouth front and back teeth dental bone graft cost? Do you need gum grafts before getting dentures? And lastly how much would a full mouth extraction cost? I am asking all these questions to get a fix on a price. I am unemployed and on ssi and disability. I have no insurance and am looking to get a bank loan. So I need to know approximitly how much I need and what procedures are necessary.
A.
Grinding and clenching will not affect bone health. Your jaw bone will start to shrink only after your teeth are removed. You will not need bone grafting for dentures. My advise would be to invest and preserve your remaining teeth. Dentures are not inevitable and should be avoided. It is impossible to advise you on cost. I recommend you consult with a dentist on what is necessary to restore your mouth to health. Dr. Lemongello
]]> http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/will-teeth-grinding-affect-my-jawbone/feed 0 What is the best treatment to fill in a craze line running down my front tooth? http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/what-is-the-best-treatment-to-fill-in-a-craze-line-running-down-my-front-tooth http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/what-is-the-best-treatment-to-fill-in-a-craze-line-running-down-my-front-tooth#comments Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:59:49 +0000 Dr Lerner & Dr Lemongello http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/what-is-the-best-treatment-to-fill-in-a-craze-line-running-down-my-front-tooth/
Q.
Hello Dr.

I have a craze line/crack running down my front tooth and I really dont like the look of it. I understand that it is only minor and not structurally weak; however it just upsets me when I see it. I have beautiful teeth and have never had any problems, so I was looking for the lease invasive fix possible (micro abrasion/light sanding and polishing etc.)

I also have white spots on my teeth from my braces and have just finished KOR bleaching which didnt help

What would you recommend to fix the problem with out putting vaneers over my teeth?

Thank you for your help dr Lemongello

A.
Unfortunately, there is no simple predictable way to remove the crack line with just polishing. Micro abrasion may work to improve the white spots from braces. If you completed KOR whitening consult with your dentist about what may be your best option. Dr. Lemongello
]]> http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/what-is-the-best-treatment-to-fill-in-a-craze-line-running-down-my-front-tooth/feed 0 The big spaces between my front teeth needs fixing. What treatment would you recommend? http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/the-big-spaces-between-my-front-teeth-needs-fixing-what-treatment-would-you-recommend http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/the-big-spaces-between-my-front-teeth-needs-fixing-what-treatment-would-you-recommend#comments Fri, 20 Jan 2012 10:56:01 +0000 Dr Lerner & Dr Lemongello http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/the-big-spaces-between-my-front-teeth-needs-fixing-what-treatment-would-you-recommend/
Q.
i have always had spaces btw my front teeth am 30 and i really want to to do something m front teeth have spaces big spaces espcially the one btw the two front ones so i have a question i heard about venners that can fix that p[robleme howver i heard it can be very expemsive and i heard something about bridges ?? will that work too to fill in my spaces btwn my tooth or not(they are nt missing teethe its juts that are spaces) now if i get to either choose venners or bridges i have a question i also had one extracion in te upper long time ago and i nver had a replacement there in order to have vnners or broidges do i have to replavce that teeth that no one will ever see anyone tks
A.
If you are not missing a front tooth and there is a big space between them veneers would be the appropriate treatment. A bridge would not work. You do not need to replace the missing tooth to improve the space in the front. Dr. Lemongello
]]> http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/the-big-spaces-between-my-front-teeth-needs-fixing-what-treatment-would-you-recommend/feed 0 How would it be possible to fill large tooth gap I have incurred? http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/how-would-it-be-possible-to-fill-large-tooth-gap-i-have-incurred http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/how-would-it-be-possible-to-fill-large-tooth-gap-i-have-incurred#comments Mon, 09 Jan 2012 10:15:53 +0000 Dr Lerner & Dr Lemongello http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/how-would-it-be-possible-to-fill-large-tooth-gap-i-have-incurred/
Q.
Hi, Wonder if you can offer some guidance please? i have a large gap on my left side of my upper teeth (maybe 4 teeth missing) and have been lead to believe there is nothing i can do about it, it has been like this for a number of years now, and as a result the line of my jaw would make it impossible to fill the gap, . however having read through this web, im wondering if there is a solution to this problem? i think the gap is to big for a bridge, and i keep coming back to the same problem that my bottom teeth are possibly “in the way” and unsure how this can be resolved? this is something that is causing me a great deal of unhappiness and embarrassment, however i am not in a position to consider major cosmetic dentistry and wonder if you can guide me on how i can look to put this right, if at all ? any confidential advice would be appreciated that you can offer me to try and improve my smile :-) Many thanks
A.
If you are missing a number of teeth the most effective way to replace them is with dental implants. If the lower teeth are in the way, you may need braces to move them or perhaps they will need to be restored in the correct position to coordinate with the upper teeth. Unfortunately, this type of dentistry can be costly. I recommend you consult with a dentist to determine your options. I am sure there is a resolution to your problem, there usually is, but you need to find the right dentist who can help you and be willing to invest the money for the best result. Dr. Lemongello
]]> http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/how-would-it-be-possible-to-fill-large-tooth-gap-i-have-incurred/feed 0 I take good care of my teeth, but they are becoming more and more decayed, why is this? http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/i-take-good-care-of-my-teeth-but-they-are-becoming-more-and-more-decayed-why-is-this http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/i-take-good-care-of-my-teeth-but-they-are-becoming-more-and-more-decayed-why-is-this#comments Thu, 15 Dec 2011 10:20:18 +0000 Dr Lerner & Dr Lemongello http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/i-take-good-care-of-my-teeth-but-they-are-becoming-more-and-more-decayed-why-is-this/
Q.
I have extremely weak teeth, despite constant flossing, mouthwashes, various dental treatments my teeth will not stop decaying! I don’t drink any drinks with sugar on (just water and unsugared tea) and rarely drink alcohol. I have started avoiding fruit, although do eat it after a meal sometimes. I have had years of braces etc and have had to have 4 root canals. I am starting to get quite obsessed with teeth and terrified about what is going to happen when I get older or get pregnant as i am only 24 and they are already appalling! Is there anything I am missing? Everytime I go to the dentist they think I am lying about flossing etc (although I always get 8/8 for ‘appearance’) because the decay won’t stop. Please help – I am quite distraught!
A.
It is difficult to determine why you continue to get decay. You mentioned you had years of braces. The decay could be related to “scaring” of the teeth and decalcification where the braces were. If this is the case the enamel is compromised in these areas. Eventually, even with good care, these areas can decay. Continue to have these areas repaired for now. Once they are all repaired you may not see decay re-appear as long as you continue with good dietary habits. No soda, not sticky chewy candy or cookies, no chips. Use fluoride or MI paste, brush and floss. Dr. Lemongello
]]> http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/i-take-good-care-of-my-teeth-but-they-are-becoming-more-and-more-decayed-why-is-this/feed 0 Are lumineers a healthier option for my teeth than veneers? http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/are-lumineers-a-healthier-option-for-my-teeth-than-veneers http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/are-lumineers-a-healthier-option-for-my-teeth-than-veneers#comments Wed, 07 Dec 2011 03:10:22 +0000 Dr Lerner & Dr Lemongello http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/are-lumineers-a-healthier-option-for-my-teeth-than-veneers/
Q.
Hi there

is it a better idea to have lumineers over veneers if your teeth only have a little staining? That is my only problem and teeth whitening hasn’t work, i don’t have crooked teeth or cracks or anything like that but i just hate the colour of my teeth. I’ve heard that lumineers are thinner than veneers and don;t require as much tooth shaving. is this true and in your opinion are they the best option for me?

thank you

A.
What is best for your situation is “prepless” veneers. “Prepless or minimal prep veneers” are veneers that can be placed over teeth with minimal or no shaving of the tooth. This type of veneer is the best type for you. Lumineers is a brand of prepless veneers. However, there are more natural porcelain materials that can be used with an outcome that is more beautiful and lifelike. Visit our website www.lernerlemongello.com for examples of minimal or no prep veneers. They are generally the cases where the teeth look pretty good before but much more natural and beautiful after. Dr. Lemongello
]]> http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/are-lumineers-a-healthier-option-for-my-teeth-than-veneers/feed 0 What can I do to change my big teeth and big gums? http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/what-can-i-do-to-change-my-big-teeth-and-big-gums http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/what-can-i-do-to-change-my-big-teeth-and-big-gums#comments Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:24:59 +0000 Dr Lerner & Dr Lemongello http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/what-can-i-do-to-change-my-big-teeth-and-big-gums/
Q.
hello doctors

what would you recommend for a person with both big teeth and big gums. When i smile there is just too much gum showing and my lip just shows everything off and my smile is just very ugly because of it. I would like something done, but i am unsure what i should be asking for. What would you recommend doctors?

thank you very much for your time and help

A.
A gummy smile can be caused by a number of things. There are a number of treatments available depending on your situation and what you want to achieve. You may need braces, gum re-contouring, veneers or a combination of three. I recommend you consult with and orthodontist as well as a dentist who specializes in cosmetic dentistry. You may need multiple opinions. Visit our website at www.lernerlemongello.com to see examples of cases we treated to improve a gummy smile. Dr. Lemongello
]]> http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/what-can-i-do-to-change-my-big-teeth-and-big-gums/feed 0 What are better, veneers or lumineers? http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/what-are-better-veneers-or-lumineers http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/what-are-better-veneers-or-lumineers#comments Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:23:04 +0000 Dr Lerner & Dr Lemongello http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/what-are-better-veneers-or-lumineers/
Q.
Will a dentist recommend veneers over lumineers due to the cost or vice versa or should they? I want to be sure I get what is best for me and most cost efficient as my insurance will not cover any of it. Thank you for your time and any help and advice you can give doctors
A.
A dentist should recommend to you what will give you the best result for your situation regardless of the cost. If you want the best for yourself you should ask for it. If cost is a factor than you will be faced with the choice of what is best for you based on what you can afford. I would find a dentist who doesn’t treat with only one type of veneer such as Lumineers. Lumineers are not the best veneers available but can be more economical. Visit our website at www.lernerlemongello.com to see examples of traditional porcelain veneers. Lumineers will not give you the same result. Dr. Lemongello
]]> http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/what-are-better-veneers-or-lumineers/feed 0 My jaw is aching terribly after my dentist put in a filling, what should I do? http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/my-jaw-is-aching-terribly-after-my-dentist-put-in-a-filling-what-should-i-do http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/my-jaw-is-aching-terribly-after-my-dentist-put-in-a-filling-what-should-i-do#comments Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:04:25 +0000 Dr Lerner & Dr Lemongello http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/my-jaw-is-aching-terribly-after-my-dentist-put-in-a-filling-what-should-i-do/
Q.
I was at the dentist on October 3, 2011 for a filling. During the appointment my dentist was pressing hard down on my teeth, I assume to fit the metal bands around the tooth. I felt quite a bit of pressure at the time but no pain as things were frozen. After the freezing wore off, i noticed my jaw was “achy” . The following week my jaw was still feeling achy and sore but I just thought it would resolve itself. On Sunday October 9th, while eating dinner my jaw felt weird and wouldn’t open properly. The next day my jaw locked on the left side of my face. I went to my chiropractor who gently released the lock and told me to ice the area. I don’t have a lot of acute pain, rather my facial muscles below my cheek bones are very, very achy. I cannot protrude my lower jaw out and it does deviate to the left when I open. At first I was not able to move my jaw side to side but I am on day 9 now and starting to feel a very tiny bit of movement. Can you help me understand what is going on with my jaw? Is it sprained and what is the long term time frame for wellness as the jaw ache is wearing on me and giving me compounding headaches? Btw, I am not a tooth grinder or clencher. thank you!
A.
It sounds as if you do have a muscle sprain. At this point use medication like Advil to help relieve inflammation in the muscle. Instead of ice, use warm heat to help the muscle heal and stretch. Watch your diet and try not to overuse your jaw or open wide. Over time the muscle will heal. Be aware you may be prone to sprain in the future. Dr. Lemongello
]]> http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/my-jaw-is-aching-terribly-after-my-dentist-put-in-a-filling-what-should-i-do/feed 0 My two front teeth feel rough and there seems to be a patch of some kind. What can I do? http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/my-two-front-teeth-feel-rough-and-there-seems-to-be-a-patch-of-some-kind-what-can-i-do http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/my-two-front-teeth-feel-rough-and-there-seems-to-be-a-patch-of-some-kind-what-can-i-do#comments Thu, 20 Oct 2011 07:30:54 +0000 Dr Lerner & Dr Lemongello http://www.smileforlife.com/blog/my-two-front-teeth-feel-rough-and-there-seems-to-be-a-patch-of-some-kind-what-can-i-do/
Q.
hello doctors,

I wondered if you answer a question about the general health of my teeth. I use an electric toothbrush, floss and use mouthwash daily, but i am becoming increasingly worried about the condition of my two front teeth. I have notice for a while that the top of the teeth are slightly rough and if you look very closely you can notice lines running across them, near the top of the tooth. However, i have recently noticed on one of them that there is a ‘dint’ or patch of tooth that is missing, more so that before. There is no sensitivity and the patch isn’t deep, but i am just very worried about what this might mean. Could you tell me what you think it is and if i should undergo any treatment to protect the tooth if it needs it?

thank you very much for your time

A.
It’s difficult to advise you on what may be occuring. This could be wear from abrasive tooth paste and over brushing. It could be some form of erosion from acid in your diet such as Coke or citrus juice. Or may be related to stress in your bite or other habit. I would consult with a dentist to see what treatment if any is needed. Dr. Lemongello
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