Patient Questions

Michael Stern is an Expert Contributor on FindaTopDoc. Here are some of their recent answers to patient questions.

Dentist
Michael D. Stern, DDS, FAGD

You actually can brush your dentures using a special denture cleaning brush and denture cleaning paste. Wetting brush is optional using the special paste for dentures. Regular toothpaste too abrasive for deep cleaning dentures.

Totally depends on THE TYPE of dental anesthesia. Ask your doctor!! MDSDDS

Generally it does, but can be prevented if a bone graft is done at time of tooth removal. MDSDDS

Not to my knowledge! MDSDDS

Yes, with proper training. MDSDDS

You cannot kill all bacteria in the mouth. Some are actually friendly. Good home care and using an antibacterial mouth rinse right after home care is finished would be as good as you can be. Mouth rinse suggestions: TOOTH AND GUM TONIC, OXYFRESH (toothpaste too), or ORIGINAL FORMULA Listerine. MDSDDS

Dental anesthesia is usually local anesthesia, which has a very good safety history. If full sedation is required, only a Dentist or Oral Surgeon with special advanced training can perform that type of anesthesia, and may use the additional services of a nurse-anesthetist or a dental anesthetist, in order to perform this service safely. MDSDDS

When you go to a dental professional and have the offending tooth treated, the head pain should go away if it was referred pain from a tooth. MDSDDS

You will need to consult dental professional to sort things out. MDSDDS

If there was infection when the tooth was removed, there can be drainage for several days. If this persists beyond four days or you have pain or swelling in the area that is not resolving, call your dentist. MDSDDS

No real benefit as to decay control. Nonabrasive, could raise your sodium level temporarily. Some commercial toothpastes might offer better benefits, but no real harm done using saltwater. MDSDDS

The faster teeth are moved, the more sensitive they will be. The type of braces or aligner does not matter. If you have sensitive gums, braces would make the sensitivity worse. MDS, DDS

Sleeping is optional and more expensive but is worth it for some people. MDSDDS

Small amounts chewed equally on both sides to start. Depends on your individual tolerance and also if your dentures are implant-supported. Some patients can eat almost anything, but many have their own unique limitations. Your dentist should be able to provide you with suggestions based on your own unique oral conditions. Good Luck! MDSDDS

I don't know the whole story here. Some areas of exposed roots can be recovered with your own gum tissue, and the results can be long lasting. But other reasons for why the root became exposed could change my answer. This question could be better answered by a periodontist dental specialist, if you are that concerned. Good Luck! MDSDDS

Because the tissues around the teeth have memories. The only way to prevent positional relapse is wearing retainers the rest of your life. MDSDDS

To make the tooth surface as smooth as possible to attract less plaque and also to remove stains. MDSDDS

If the gap is in front, either dental bonding or porcelain veneers could work, or else you could try Invisalign or Clearcorrect invisible tooth aligners, which would cost more, but are more conservative. Good luck. MDSDDS