Archives for May 2019

Can a Hockey Player Get Dental Implants?

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Hi there,

I’m a college hockey player and my front tooth got knocked out. My dentist recommended a dental implant, and started the process. However, my teammates said it was a bad idea while I’m still playing hockey. What if I get hit in the face again? Should I get something temporary, like a bridge? I want an implant for cosmetic reasons.

Peter, from Brooklyn, New York.

 

Hi Peter,

Your teammate’s concern is valid. If you had an implant that got knocked out, it would knock out the bone and the hardware. Repairing it would require a bone graft and extensive surgery. Hockey players are prone to dental injuries, so waiting until you’re done playing before getting anything permanent done would be a good idea.

A bridge is not a temporary fix, and would involve multiple adjacent teeth to place properly. Instead of just one tooth being at risk, there would be a higher risk of more teeth being injured. In the meantime, a root fixture or plug can be placed.

The best temporary fix would be a removable partial flipper. if done by an expert cosmetic dentist and ceramist, it will be indistinguishable from the rest of your natural teeth.

This blog post is brought to you by Baton Rouge Dental implant provider, Dr. Steven Brooksher.

 

 

 

Which Should I Get – Porcelain Veneers or Invisalign?

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Hi there,

I want a whiter and brighter smile. I was interested in porcelain veneers, but my dentist suggested getting Invisalign first. My teeth aren’t that crooked, so I didn’t think I needed braces. I asked about Lumineers, but he doesn’t do them because they look too bulky. Invisalign would delay me getting porcelain veneers by about a year, and would increase the cost. What should I do?

Thank you,

Ada, from Wisconsin

 

Hi Ada,

Cosmetic dentists usually suggest porcelain veneers or Invisalign, but suggesting both is uncommon. If you have bite problems or crowding in your mouth, that could be one reason for getting both.

One thing you can do is get a completely blind second opinion from another cosmetic dentist. Cosmetic dentistry is not a specialty recognized by the ADA, but are a segment of dentists that have pursued additional training in aesthetics and restoration. If they agree, then you can choose which dentist you prefer to do your work. If you dislike the size or shape of your teeth, covering them with porcelain veneers is a good treatment. You also won’t have to wait until your teeth are straight to start, either.

Invisalign bracers are faster than traditional metal braces, and will make sure your teeth are straight and aligned. If you want to brighten your smile, you can get an in-office teeth whitening treatment, or a take-home whitening kit. Your Invisalign bracers can even be used as custom bleaching trays. If you don’t want to rush into treatment, Invisalign is a good option for you.

This blog post is brought to you by Baton Rouge Invisalign provider, Dr. Steven Brooksher.

Can I Trust This Dentist?

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Hello,

I went to see a new dentist about some tooth pain I’ve had for a few weeks. This is the first time I’ve felt pain in this tooth, so I didn’t think it was too serious. However, the dentist told me one of my teeth has a cavity and needs an extraction. He would have to put me under to do either a bone graft or dental implant. Should I get a second opinion? I don’t want to get all this work done over some tooth pain. He didn’t even find an infection, but gave me antibiotics for the pain. I’m mostly worried about having a reaction to the anesthetic. I’m terrified of getting dental work done and am dreading this. What should I do?

Claire from Philadelphia, PA

 

Hi Claire,

If your tooth has recently started feeling pain, it has only become infected recently. It likely isn’t so far gone that it needs extractions, let alone a bone graft or implant. A tooth that’s beyond saving would have been hurting for awhile, and would have a visible cavity in it.

A second opinion would be a good idea. You can bring any X-rays to your new dentist. A fresh set of eyes can give you a new perspective on your issue.

Another point to consider is that anesthetic is a safe medicine, and you are not going to have an allergic reaction to it. Dental anxiety is nothing unusual. Find a second opinion from a sedation dentist. They are experienced in administering nitrous oxide or local anesthetic for anxious patients. The more anxiety you feel, the harder it will be to get you numb. Too much anxiety, and you’ll need conscious oral sedation. A gentle dentist will be able to advise you on your sedation needs.

This blog is brought to you by Baton Rouge sedation dentist, Dr. Steven Brooksher.