Archive for the ‘Dr Tennet's Answers’ Category

I have a 40 year old root canals with discoloured and fragile teeth

Friday, November 6th, 2009

Q. Dr Tennet, My upper two front teeth have 40 year old root canals. What is left of the teeth themselves is a very fragile & dark brown. What is the best cosmetic choice for covering them? I currently have porcelain crowns with white (titanium?) cores. They are ok, but not super. Any other options? Also, the gum above one of the crowns protrudes a bit more than its neighbor. That developed after the crowns were replaced a few years ago. My doctor has x-rayed and it doesn’t show an infection. I’m guessing a lot can go wrong with old dental work? Any advice would be appreciated

A.

Discoloured Root filled teeth can be a problem to shade match All ceramic Zirconia cores are a good route but the level of opaque will need to be judged by trial and error it usually requires a few visits. The crown margins should be about 1mm below the gum line to hide the dark root emerging. If this is not possible then some periodontal plastic surgery  to reshape the gum using grafts  / emdogain etc might be an option.
Rob

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

What can be done for a small gap in my front teeth?

Friday, November 6th, 2009

Q. My front teeth have got a gap. A small one. what could be done for this? I feel really down about it. thank you

A. Cosmetic bonding to add tooth coloured filling, or porcelain veneers would be common solutions to diastema closure (tech term for gaps)

The best treatment in your case can be decided after a free 15 minute initial consultation. Call Amy on 0121 643 0610 for details.

Rob

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

Can I be put to sleep while being looked at by dentist?

Friday, November 6th, 2009

Q. HI DR i am so scared of having my teeth looked at , And I know I need some teeth removed because some are black and chiped . Can I be put to sleep ?

A. contact your local primary Healthcare Trust (PCT) ask for Dental Contracts and they will tell you who has a NHS sedation contract in your area. For Private treatment search for practices offering IV sedation.
Sedation is probably your best route which is why I given those details although you need to speak to the provider to wexplain what this be be like in your case. The risks associated with general anaesthetics mean it is rarely indicated for dentistry, and if it is you would need a hospital refferal from a dental practice like the sedation services mentioned.
Good Luck Rob

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

Please help me in reshaping my teeth

Friday, November 6th, 2009

Q. Dear Dr Moore I am Writing concerning a special case of cosmetic dentistry i am interested in. I am looking for a way of reshaping 8 of my teeth (the top and bottom canines and top and bottom lateral incisors). I wanted to consult you as to the feasibility of this, and secondly if it is a service you can provide as it is reshaping the teeth rather than trying to return them to a normal shape. The effect i am after is for the canines themselves to be slightly expended (approximately 1 or 2mm) and both them and the lateral incisors to be more pointed. The intent is to be a subtle effect and must be acceptable for still eating/chewing etc. I realize in itself this request is rather unusual, but i was hoping even if you yourself cannot provide this service you might be able to point me in the direction of those who could. On that note, if you can provide this service, how much would it cost? for all 8 teeth and which would be the best way of approaching this? I would greatly appreciate any help your expertise could lend to this matter.

A. The reshaping of teeth can be carried out in a number of ways including simple bonding of white filling to the teeth (cost £50) or veneers/crowns (starting from £450). The choice depends on the durability of the material needed, the extent of the correction required and the position of the opposing teeth.
The next step is to come in for a full consultation in order to find out the type of treatment you require. If you are interested please call the clinic on 01245 268 494 Regards  Andrew

dr andrew moore

Dr Andrew Moore
Advance Dental Clinic
Clinical Director
www.advancedentalclinic.com
Tel: 01245 268 494
104 Moulsham Street
Chelmsford Essex
CM2 0JG

What can be done to a half broken tooth surfacing below gum-line?

Friday, November 6th, 2009

Q. Hi, I have just returned from a visit to my dentist today. My appointment was for preparation for a crown on upper molar, second from back. This tooth had broken in half followng root canal treatment and filling 5 years ago. My current dentist put a temporary cover on it and we left it for six months to ensure that the seal hadn’t been breached. When he removed the temporary today he advised he would be unable to save the tooth as what was left of the tooth was partially below the gum-line rendering a crown that would not be viable. He suggested either a bridge, which he felt was not a good option due to the grinding down of the adjacent teeth and suggested an implant at a cost of £2,000. Having done some research on the internet some sites have said that crowns can be placed even if there is only a root left (that has had root canal treatment) and a post can be inserted into the root for the crown to be attached to. Can you advise if this is a possibility please? I look forward to your response. Many thanks.

A. the details are all important here. some teeth can be managed with crowns some are better extracted.
the size, shape and location of the residual tooth : filling are all important.
Before implants there were several common ways to solve the problems. But the fix might only last 5-10years, Implants can be more predictable in some cases. so tend to be increasing in popularity.
If you are near our city centre Practice beside New Street shops contact Amy for details of a free initial assesment. 0121 643 0610

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

A protruding tooth is affecting me playing my trumpet

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009

Q. I am a professional trumpeter with a protruding upper tooth which affects my playing. I am wondering if having it removed and a dental implant inserted would help. How long after initial consultation would you typically be doing the surgery? How long after surgery would I be able to play trumpet? How many appointments are normally required?

A. Because you are a professional musician the procedure would need careful planning . Same day implants are suitable in some cases, although the success rates are higher if there is a delay of 3 to 6 months before restoration. an initial consultation at the stjohns dental practice is free contact amy for details 01216430610

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

I feel results from braces are abnormal

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009

Q. Hi, i’m 18 and i had braces for 2 years when i was 13. since then i havent had any trouble until recently when my lateral incisor has felt slightly loose. this was one of the teeth which moved the most during my orthodontic treatment. in the past few weeks it has felt slightly painful in what im assuming is the root. i have noticed it has moving so i’ve had to wear my retainers every night nd they feel tight around this tooth whenever i put them in. is this normal? i have also read that these sort of symptoms can be related to sinus problems, is this likey? i did mention that my tooth felt loose to my dentist but he said it was about 0.5 on the scale of looseness and not to worry, did he miss something? generally my teeth are healthy and i have not noticed any abcesses.

A. a radiograph to exclude resorption might help. Rob

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

Should laser machine for teeth whitening require trained professional?

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009

Q. I have a hairdressing salon. A friend is investing in laser teeth whitening products including a laser machine. my friend is not a dentist and is thinking of having someone who is n ot trained in any form of dentistry to do the treatments. My friend is asking me to rent some space for his little business. I do not feel comfortable about this and am concerned with public liability issues. I beleive it is illegal for someone not trained in the dentistry field to administer teeth whitening by laser.

A. you are correct the general dental council has been prosecuting similar cases. their website gives details. Rob

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

How can I protect my loose tooth from falling off

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009

Q. I have a loose front tooth due to a cracked root. I go in a few days for my impressions for my flapper. My tooth is very loose and I am worried that it may fall out before I go for my apointment. I am not using it to eat at all. I am just afraid it will fall out.

A. do your best with a soft diet

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

Can tooth filling be removed or redone?

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009

Q. I chipped my front tooth in two small places and my dentist fixed it by slightly filling the tooth put some kinda tooth color stuff and then buffed it a little, but the shape of my new tooth is very uncomfortable and is bothering me can the stuff he put on my tooth be removed….

A. generally speaking it should be possible to polish back.

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

Is its important to know about herpes as a dentist?

Thursday, October 29th, 2009

Q. Why is it so important if you have herpes 1 and 2 to know as a dentist. The reason why i ask because i am becoming a dentist ass. and i need to know why is it so important to know if a someone had herpes.

A. herpes virus can be spread in the aerosol spray that dentistry creates. it can be a serious infection in some patients and can cause permanent damage if it is spread to the eyes

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

Scared to visit dentist for my discoloured rotting teeth

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009

Q. Hello, I have a front tooth that is rotting, it has turned black and does not look nice, I know I need the dentist but I have not had any good experiences with the dentist hence why I’ve put it off for so long, I know I have to go sooner rather than later but I’m worried about what they will do with the tooth in question, will they take it out or can they repair it?

A.

You need the check up before you can get down to details. The good thing is that you dont have to have anything done at the first visit , just decide on some likely options.
Rob

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

I need to fix the shaky front tooth

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009

Q. i seem to have a habbit of pushing my front teeth with my tongue and then pushing them back again and now, i find myself doing it all day without realizing it and now i think one of my front teeth are shaky, it seems to move a bit more now, out of place when i push it and instead of stopping, i do it alot more now to see if it really is shaky or not. im terrified as im only 21. what can i do if they fall out? i also grind my back teeth in my sleep and during the day which is a new thing during the day. what are dental implants? are they screw ins? if my teeth come out could i get them on nhs? in the morning i feel as though if i just push my teeth theyl pop out so i try to avoid doing that 1st thing in the morning. im terrified on dental jags so cant go to dentist, i would go if i could get put to sleep tho, please help

A. Start by forcing yourself to visit 3 different practices that seem friendly to anxious patients.  You can be adamant that you only want an opinion not treatment. ( check prices for assesment before you go )
One of them will feel better and more in tune with you. Then start with some simple treatment to boost your confidence.
Rob

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

What is the cost to replace dental plate with implants?

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009

Q. Hi I have two bottom teeth missing and currently where a plate, how much roughly would it cost to have these two teeth as implants

A. If a single implant can carry both teeth a guide price of £3-4000. If each miising tooth is replaced by an implant then £4-5000. ( Average Birmingham Prices)
If you would like a free initial consultation to determine the best option in your case call Amy on 0121 643 0610 for details.
Rob

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

What are the risk in pulling out wisdom teeth?

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009

Q. Are there any risks in getting wisdow teeth pulled from only one side of the mouth? Like loss of equalibrium or anything ? And would deep rooted nerves in wisdom teeth cause tinnitus ?

A. You need to ask the dentist doing the surgery as there a a number of common risks and some uncommon ones. ther are some evidence based guidlines from NICE ( Nat institute of clinical excellence) on when its a good idea and when its not.
Rob

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

Can implants replace my dentures?

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009

Q. Dear Rob, I have lost about half of my teeth. I had a set of dentures made up a couple of years ago, but find them impossible to wear, they are extremely uncomfortable. To compound this problem, all of my front teeth were damaged in an accident a number of years ago, and i have a habit of grinding what remains of them. The are becoming quite ‘threadbare’ and sensitive. I am also not in a position to fund the extensive dental surgery I would require to prevent further damage. I believe there are certain criteria that the NHS would consider adequate medical justification for funding implants, and I was wondering if a patient such as myself would fall into this group. Please advise. Many thanks,

A. Your local dental hospital is the best port of call to find out local provision

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

How much does it cost to cap a tooth?

Monday, October 26th, 2009

Q. Hello im due to have my tooth taken out witch id rather have it capped but how much would it cost to cap a tooth its the front and to the left at the top

A. it depends on what is wrong with the tooth. If it needs root treatment and a post before crowning the cost may double. anything from 350 to 1000. you need to know what the chance of success is if you do the work. Rob

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

Could you help as I am unsure of whether to have veneers or bridges?

Friday, October 23rd, 2009

Q. I have a partial denture for my upper left and right lateral incisors, but am interested in looking at implants, as this would be a more permanent solution.I admit I have not looked after my teeh very well in the past but I am determined to this time but dont fancy wearing dentures long term – my NHS dentist has mentioned veneers or bridges but not sure about that either. Many thanks.

A. our dentists in birmingham city centre would be able to do a free intial consultation to help point you in the right direction. call Amy on 01216430610 for details

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

Is its necessary to wear rubber bands for braces?

Friday, October 23rd, 2009

Q. if you dont wear you rubber bands for braces will it still work for your overbite?

A. you should follow the advice of the orthodontist carrying out the treatment. Rob

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ

Should I had to wait six months before a bridge was fitted after tooth extraction?

Friday, October 23rd, 2009

Q. I am due to have my bottom front tooth extracted due to a snapped root, do you have to wait six months before a bridge can be fitted as i am having mine fitted on the same day and i am feeling very unsure that i should be fitted with a denture first

A. during the first six months after an extraction the bone will reshape. A denture is easier to adapt to this change. a bridge fitted after six months is likely to easier to adapt to the stable shape. bridges fitted at extraction sometimes need replacing after six months. Rob

dr rob tennet

Dr Rob Tennet
St Johns Dental Practice
www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
Tel: 0121 643 0610
18 Bennett’s Hill
Birmingham B2 5QJ