QUESTION: I had a root canal on my tooth due to an abscess about a month ago. Ever since, my gums around that tooth have been red and swollen and I’ve been having a headache and earache on that side. The tooth beside it feels very hot to the touch. What does this mean? ANSWER: It is not unusual for …
Upper Molar Extraction
QUESTION: I had oral surgery to pull out a molar.After he pulled it he mentioned the roots left an opening to my sinus cavity and that had to be fixed,so he did and stitched me up. Went in for my check up and he trimmed off some excess gum tissue that had died off.Question is its a few days later …
Bones in Lower Jaw
QUESTION: What can I do about the bones in my lower jaw, under my tongue? No pain involved. ANSWER: These are called mandibular tori and they are just a normal overgrowth of normal bone. In fact I have them myself. They may be in response to clenching and grinding, and you do not need to have then removed. If they …
HIV Oral Transmission
QUESTION: I have my under bridge area bleeding for a bit after flossing but it fades away after awhile.. Can I get HIV from intense kissing a positive partner? What are the chances..? How can I protect myself if I wanna be with that person? ANSWER: Usually the HIV transmission rate orally is very low, but having an open wound …
How long should you wait before getting dentures after having teeth pulled?
QUESTION: How long should I wait before getting dentures after having my teeth pulled? ANSWER: Typically you will want to wait a minimum of 6 weeks between your extractions and your dentures. You may also opt for an immediate denture where they place a denture at the time of extractions. Either way you will probably need to have your denture …
Receding Gums
QUESTION: I have receding gums on my bottom front teeth. My dentist says it’s due to brushing too hard so I switched it up and have been brushing better (I floss everyday and use mouthwash too). I also have been eating healthier. My gums continue to recede though. The gaps in between my teeth are getting bigger and bigger and …
Is Extracting Childrens Teeth A Good Idea?
QUESTION: Is placing veneers on the front upper teeth of a 3 year old child medically necessary due to decay caused by a delay in weaning the child from a bottle or would extracting the teeth, since they are going to fall out be a better solution? ANSWER: If your child has nursing bottle caries and they can be restored …
Brushing Young Childrens Teeth
Question: Is there an easy way to get my 2yr old to brush his teeth? Its a daily fight and now I noticed the gums in the front are inflamed and bleeds when I brush his teeth. Can’t get the brush/wash cloth far enough in his mouth to brush/wipe his tongue properly (stinky breath) any solutions? Answer: In response to …
Teeth Whitening
Question: Hi there, just a quick question. I have had my teeth whitened a few years ago and I have some optident carbamide peroxide gel left over, its more viscous than I remember and it has not been refrigerated. My question is this – am I running any risk in trying this gel again? I fancy having them whitened a …
Swelling in Roof of Mouth
QUESTION: There is swelling on the upper right inside of my gum. What is that? ANSWER: A swelling in the roof of your mouth could be anything from a normal overgrowth of bone to an infected tooth to some type of tumor. I recommend you see a dentist as soon as possible to have it evaluated and treated if need …