Q.
I get mouth ulcers quite often, and am sick and tired of them. Are there any main causes of this like not cleaning your mouth properly, or are some people just more inclined to getting them?
A.
The precise mechanism by which canker sores or mouth ulcers form has not been definitively determined, but it is likely that their development is related to the patient’s immune system. It is also thought that a vitamin deficiency can cause cancer sores, such as B1, B2, B6, B12 and vitamin C deficiencies. Stress and hormonal changes have also been associated with the onset of canker sores.
Q.
I have come across what is called a smile makeover, and would like to know what this is exactly? I am guessing there must be a limit to how many treatments you get done within this treatment…
A.
A smile makeover is unigue to each patients’ needs and ususally the term is used to describe the outcome of cosmetic dentistry. A makeover can consist of anywhere from just bleaching (to change color only) to veneers or crowns to change the shape and color of your teeth. If you are interested in improving the appearance of your smile a makeover may be for you!
Q.
I am a nervous patient and have been looking into the special services some practices now offer with
sedation and such. I would just like to know if there are any possible side effects to this or whether it is completely safe?
A.
If fear is keeping you away from the dentists office,
sedation dentistry may be for you.
Sedation in the dental office can be in many forms: an oral medication you take before your appointment, which will make you relaxed and sleepy (but still awake) while the procedure is being done. Or, an intravenous medication can be given while in the dental chair, which will put you completely to sleep. There are minimal risks associated with each, and your dentist can go over these specifically with you after reviewing your medical history.
Q.
Which is the best teeth whitening system. I see that there is zoom! and enlighten, and I presume there are others offered by dentist, but what the advantages over one another?
A.
Zoom! and Enlighten are both excellent products with great results.
Q.
Every now and then when my brush my teeth there is blood when I rinse my mouth. This does not happen all that often so I am not too worried, but would still like to know if there could be any underlying problem. I don’t brush my teeth too vigorously so I doubt that is the reason.
A.
Healthy teeth and gums do not bleed. If the bleeding is intermittent and your teeth and gums are healthy and checked regularly than I wouldn’t be too concerned. Make sure you are using a soft brush. When it does bleed try to find where from and have it checked by a dentist.
Dr. Lemongello
Q.
I awoke yesterday to find that my left cheek was swollen, and there was a pain coming from my mouth at this side. I thought it would go away but I still have it today. I presume this must be a dental problem, but would like to know if you have any ideas what it may be? I am going to give my dentist a call tomorrow if the problem remains, but would like your opinion first?
A.
Hi, many thanks for your email, it does sound as if you have a swelling which is originating from a tooth. If this is the case, my advice would be that the tooth in question is infected and is causing the swelling. Call your dentist tomorrow as I feel you may also require some antibiotics to initially clear the infection. Hope this is helpful.
Dr Kailesh Solanki
Q.
I have always had a fear of the dentist since I was young. I must have had a traumatic experiene or something. However, I worry that my fear will stop me from getting any serious dental problems dealt with, and that this will give me a horrible smile. Do you have any advice as to how I can overcome my anxiety?
A.
My advice is to see your dentist often when there aren’t any problems. This way your dental visits can be fun, uneventful and with good news of healthy teeth at the end of the visit. Once you become accustomed to easy dental visits you will find that there isn’t anything to fear. Preventive dentistry is the best way to avoid a fearful situation. Communicate with your dentist and let him know how you feel. This way they can use a little extra TLC.
Dr. Lemongello
Q.
I am now in my 50s but am still yet to get rid of my fear of the dentist. I am able to go to appointments for the small things but am not keen at all on anything too painful. One of my front teeth is now in a bad state due to my fear, and the dentist has said that I will need to get a denture. I have said I don’t want this as I fear it falling out, and am wondering if an implant could be a good choice. Is this procedure able to be carried out with the patient fully asleep, or does this carry too many complications?
A.
Hi, many thanks for your email. The main options for a gap are 1: denture 2: bridge 3:implant or 4:nothing at all. if the denture is a worry, the two fixed options would be a bridge or an implant. If feesible my advice would always be to go for an implant as its the longest lasting of the two options and most conservative.
The procedure of an implant could be performed under IV sedation, which would mean you’re unaware of the treatment while it is taking place.
Hope this is helpful.
Dr Kailesh Solanki
Q.
Are you in the know on what kind of treatment
dental insurance will cover? Do any of your patients use insurance to cover the price of their treatment? I am guessing it won’t cover cosmetic treatments such as invisalign.
A.
All insurance policies are different and what they will and won’t cover varies by what is stated in the contract. You would need to read your contract or speak to someone at the insurance company to find out what is covered. If your insurance policy covers orthodontic treatment some percentage or specific dollar amount of the cost of Invisalign would be covered. You would have to speak to your dentist or the insurance company to find out how much.
Dr. Lemongello
Q.
Hi, I am having 2 implants fitted and a 4 tooth bridge. Can I use an electric toothbrush on this. Thanks,
A.
Hi many thanks for your email. Yes, it is fine to use an electric toothbrush on this.
Dr Kailesh Solanki
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