Dr. Joseph P. Matrullo, DMD

There are many options to closing a space between the two front teeth, but not all options are good choices for every patient. There are a number of factors for a dentist to consider before offering veneers, crowns, or bonding to a patient. In this case, the reason that braces cannot close the space must be identified so the space does not re-open after it is corrected. A thorough clinical and radiographic exam would be needed to better answer your question.

As with any other oral condition, the progression of the disease is influenced by a number of factors including genetics, habits, home hygiene, diet, and composition of the oral flora. If identified early enough, periodontal disease does not need to progress to the point of losing teeth.


Increasing dental hygiene recall frequency, proper home hygiene with a few dental adjuncts, smoking cessation, and a proper diet are indicated in a person who is at risk.


A proper dental exam and radiographs would be necessary to more specifically answer your question.

This depends entirely on the location and extent of tooth decay, method of removing the decay (laser or rotary instrumentation), and your tolerance to pain. Some teeth can be restored without using local anesthesia, but most require it due to the factors listed above.

Plaque is a biofilm that consists of a matrix of sugars, proteins, and bacteria. It will be present regardless of the foods you eat, but sticky foods like breads or bananas will contribute more towards the presence of plaque. Even healthy foods can adhere to the teeth.


The best way to reduce plaque is to brush and floss properly after every meal. I would recommend that your dentist or hygienist spend some time with you demonstrating good home techniques. Depending on your visit, they may be able to recommend aides like a Waterpik or Rotadent that will help you.

Clicking in the jaw joint can be 1.) normal, it can be 2.) a disc displacement with or without reduction, or it could be 3.) degenerative joint disease. A thorough radiographic and clinical exam would be necessary to properly diagnose the condition. Once a diagnosis is reached, treatment could range from simple jaw exercises and stretches, to a night guard to be worn to bed, to surgery. So a referral to an oral surgeon would be very reasonable depending upon the diagnosis and degree of TMJ dysfunction.

You should have a dentist do a thorough exam to rule out any pathology such as tooth decay or gum disease. If there are no underlying conditions, desensitizing treatments including fluoride trays or in-office desensitizing can be performed.

You should be seen by a dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation, as time is of the essence with tooth trauma. The root could be fractured or this could be a tooth displacement which may require splinting. The only way to determine the extent of the injury and the necessary treatment is with an exam.