Q.
What treatment options are available for a gummy smile? I have already seen stuff about gum contouring but do not particularly like the idea of cutting into the gums. Are there any alternatives to this procedure, or should I just brave it and go for gum contouring?
A.
An alternative may be braces but it depends on the situation. The idea is worse than the treatment. Once it is completed you will be pleased with the improved appearance. Gum re-contouring can be very simple treatment with a Laser. Talk to your dentist.
Dr. Lemongello
Q.
How long do you need to wait to reline/adjust the temporary crown after gingivoplasty or gum contouring. A laser was probably used on my canine tooth as the tissue appeared charred after the surgery. Once the tissue is removed, can it still grow back?
A.
Hi, many thanks for your email. The temporary crown can be adjusted around 2 weeks after the first gum contouring and then generally 2 weekly after that if needed. The gum can grow back if the underlying bone is not adjusted accordingly or the crown is not adjusted correctly.
Many thanks,
Dr Kailesh Solanki
Q.
Dear Doctors,
I live in South Africa and in a few days time I am due for a scary extraction of my left over teeth (mainly the front ones) prior to puttin g implants in my mouth.
I am so scared that half way through the extraction I will tire out and panic…
Originally the Government Hospital offered me
sedation, but this being an overbooked service thay have now suggested we swap it for a a heavy sleeping pill which will keep me half awake but not fully sedated. If I waitr another two months I could use the seadtion option instead but I amn not sure if I should do that, also I am scared that getting used to temporary dentures will depress even further!! I am in need of compassionate counselling and advise. Please reply soon!
A.
Sorry to hear of your unfortunate situation. I think you will do well with the heavy sleeping pill. You will be very relaxed and the procedure will feel as if it went quickly. When you are ready for the implnats wait until they can schedule for
sedation.
Sedation is a better option for the implant appointment. Don’t let the tempoaray dentures depress you. Instaed look forward to the day you will no longer need the denture and how good that will make you feel. Dr. Lemongello
Q.
What would you say is the recommended amount of calcium that a child of ten should be getting on a daily basis to ensure their teeth and bones are strong?
A.
hi many thanks for your email, the recommended daily allowance of calcium is 1300mg. a glass of milk contains around 300mg of calcium. hope this is helpful.
Dr Kailesh Solanki
Q.
How long do the affects of enlighten teeth whitening last. Is it merely a couple of years before you would need to get it done again, or even less possibly?
A.
I am not familiar with “enlighten” teeth whitening. Most chair side whitening with trays administered by and under the supervision of a dentist is predictable. This type of whitening lasts 6 months to a year. The beauty of take home tray whitening is that whenever you want to touch up the whitening effect just wear your trays for a day or two and re-whiten your teeth. Laser whitening doesn’t last as long and is usually followed up with take home trays to help keep your teeth white.
Dr. Lemongello
Q.
What are the treatment options for bruxism? Are there any natural remedies?
A.
I am not aware of any natural remedies for bruxism. Bruxism, or clenching is usually treated with an occlusal guard, which is a mouth piece that protects your teeth from wear. Your dentist will tell you how long and how often you will need to wear it. Sometimes a patient only clenches or grinds their teeth at night so it may be worn only during sleep.
Q.
How long is it after a tooth has been extracted through surgery at the hospital (I mean cutting into the gums) before the gum is healed enough to begin eating warm and solid food. I am to have the procedure done next week and know you are supposed to rinse your mouth with water and salt.
A.
hi many thanks for your email. the advice i always give after a surgical extraction is no rinsing on the day, a soft light diet,pain killers if needed but avoid anything with asprin, and the following day should be sticking to a soft light diet, mouth rinsing with salt water and also anticeptic mouthwash. a few days after the procedure you should be back onto hard foods but just play it by ear.
Dr Kailesh Solanki
Q.
If you have lumineers placed, what happens to the teeth that they are placed on? Are they still able to stay healthy through normal teeth cleaning, or do special techniques need to be undertaken?
A.
The tooth underneath remains intact. Veneered teeth are maintained like natural teeth through normal oral hygiene and dental cleanings. There are no special techniques.
Dr. Lemongello
Q.
Are mouthwashes completly fine to use with dental appliances like bridges, crowns and others? I have a crown, and want to make sure that I do not hurt its structure or its aesthetic appearrance.
A.
hi many thanks for your email, as far as i am aware the only mouthwash which may stain the teeth is corsodyl, but as long as you use a daily mouthwash such as listerine it is fine and will actually help maintain your bridge and crown work.
Dr Kailesh Solanki
Q.
How much on average does it cost to get the gum contouring procedure done?
A.
Usually this procedure is being performed while placing veneers or crowns. When this occurs it is charged as part of the treatment. If it is performed with no other procedure the cost will vary greatly with what is being done, who is performing it and where you are in the country making it impossible to guide you. I would consult with dentists in your area.
Dr. Lemongello
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