Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I have several missing teeth and would like to have implants. I see that my teeth are starting to shift, but at this time I cannot afford the implants. What can I do?

A: You are correct in wanting to replace your missing teeth as soon as possible. Once your teeth start to shift, it will be much more difficult (and costly) to replace them. One alternative would be a partial denture. This will maintain the position of your teeth, and as you are able to, you can have the implants placed and then eliminate the need for the partial denture. We now have partial dentures that have metal clasps and are virtually undetectable when you smile.

Q: My spouse complains that I grind my teeth at night and that it keeps her awake. I also often wake up with a headache. Am I damaging my teeth and can a dentist help me?

A: Grinding your teeth, which is technically called ‘bruxism,’ causes quite a bit of damage in addition to keeping a spouse awake. Bruxism may lead to loose teeth, fractured teeth, premature wear, and short teeth, as well as headaches. Bruxism is a leading cause of TMJ Dysfunction – problems with the jaw joint. A dentist can fabricate a custom biteguard to protect your teeth from the adverse effects of grinding.

Q: Can adults benefit from fluoride?

A: Topical fluoride is of benefit to cavity prone adults as well, especially for those who have had radiation to the head or neck, suffer from dry mouth, or have gum recession. Fluoride is also helpful for those with sensitive teeth. Topical fluoride preparations are available both with and without a prescription. Prescription fluoride preparations are stronger and are available as gels, rinses and may even be used in custom fabricated mouth trays for those at greatest risk of decay.

Q: Why does my child need to have fluoride?

A: The water in our area is not fluoridated. Fluoride helps to make developing teeth harder and thus more resistant to decay. Fluoride supplementation can be delivered in several ways, all of which complement each other. Topical fluoride is delivered in toothpastes, gels, and rinses as well as more concentrated fluoride treatments administered by dental professionals. Systemic fluoride is administered by prescription only and is generally combined with vitamins, although fluoride alone can also be prescribed.

Q: I am taking medication for osteoporosis. How does this affect my dental treatment?

A: Some bisphosphonate medications (and these may also be used for other conditions such as Paget's Disease and many types of cancer therapy, both orally and intravenously ) may rarely cause osteonecrosis of the jaw. This is a rare, but very serious condition that involves severe destruction, of the jawbone.