Q.
if a tooth is cracked does this automatically mean that you should get it checked out at the dentist and seek treatment. this weekend gone i fell on my face when skateboarding and my tooth looks cracked. there is a chipped bit on it as well. but it doesn;’t hurt so that is making me think i dont need to get any treatment but what would your opinion be please?
A.
Definitely get it evaluated…you may be able to prevent more serious problems if you do.
Q.
i’m in my 40’s and have never been happy with my teeth. they’re all very crooked especially the ones at the front. a friend told me about invisalign because i don’t want to have braces that show, not at my age anyway. will invisalign be good for me? are they completely invisible? i just need a rough idea about them, thanks.
A.
Without examining your teeth, Invisalign is a good option for most people. They are nearly invisable but if you look close enough you may be able to tell a person is wearing them. They are however, invisable compared to any other type of braces. You should consult with an Invisalign certified dentist to find out what your options are. Dr. Lemongello
Q.
Hi, I’m currently doing some research about teeth whitening my teeth are badly stained but i don’t want to be sat in the dentist for however long it takes as i know i’d feel uncomfortable. would a home whitening kit be ideal for me? if so what’s the best home whitening kit i can be offered by a professional? thanks
A.
Home whitening is a good choice. There are many different systems all being very much similar. You will need to see a dentist to properly be fitted for the trays that you will use during the bleaching phase.
Q.
My teeth are very badly stained but they also contain a lot of chips and some of my teeth are broken at the back. I really want them whitened more than anything because you can’t see the chips/broken teeth cos they’re at the back, can ihave them whitened in this condition? can’t really afford to have them fixed properly just yet you see.
A.
I understand your desire to have white teeth but healthy teeth, especially back teeth are more important than white teeth. If you have cavities or broken teeth you may not be a candidate for whitening. Consult with a dentist on the health of your teeth and if whitening is possible with your situation.
Q.
Hi, i’m thinking about having dental veneers because my teeth are chipped and not a nice colour really, I want them to look more natural and nice again, are veneers the best way forward? Also, are there any major risks from veneers because i heard they have to file your tooth down, I don’t particularly want to lose any more tooth! Thank you for your help.
A.
How much tooth structure that is removed is dependent upon how staight and how discouloured your teeth are.. Veneers are a great consideration because they are thin and can naturally replicate teeth.
Q.
I’m a smoker and i drink a lot of coffee so my teeth are very stained. I’ve tried home whitening kits but they’ve made no difference and it doesn’t help that I can’t give up the coffee and the nicotine! Would teeth whitening help? how permanent is it? Thanks for the help!
A.
yes it will, but it will not be as effective with smoking and coffee
Q.
Hi, i’ve had fixed braces on now for about 6 months but i think my
wisdom teeth are coming through at the back of my mouth, what do i do? thanks
A.
Perhaps you need to have the
wisdom teeth removed. You may be able to wait until the braces are finished and have treatment then. Consult with the orthodontist who is treating you. Dr. Lemongello
Q.
Hi, i’m considering dental veneers. Are there different materials that can be used? If so which is better? I had a friend who had veneers and hers chipped after a few months, I really don’t want that to happen to mine. Thanks.
A.
Usually if there is a problem with chipping of veneers it is because of how the bite is. This is why you must go to a qualified cosmetic/restorative dentist. Not all dentists have this advanced training.
Q.
The crown I had put on several years ago has really chipped at the back and it’s beginning to hurt when I eat now, can I get one replaced and how much would it be? Thanks for the help
A.
Yes you can get it replaced…..costs vary but between $1000-2000.
Q.
My gums really ruin my smile, they cover too much of my teeth, i was wondering about gum contouring and how the procedure works? will it hurt? will i be kept awake? and is it suitable for me? thanks
A.
Gum recontouring can be a simple procedure. It involves recontouring of excess gum tissue exposing more of the underlying teeth. Sometimes it may require removal of a small amount of bone with the gum. Either way you do not need to be put to sleep for this procedure. Depending on whether it is just gum or involves bone you may be uncomfortable for 24 hours. To find out what is necessary in your situation consult with a dentist who specializes in this procedure. Dr. Lemongello
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