Common Dental Issues: When to Change Dentists and Treatment Insights

Q: Common Dental Issues: When to Change Dentists and Treatment Insights

Hello, sir： Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and related suggestions： 1. It is best for the same physician to oversee the treatment process for continuity of care. 2. If your dental filling still feels uncomfortable, it may be due to deep

Dental issues

Hello! I have a few questions.

1.
Is it better not to change dentists frequently? I've heard that changing dentists often can be problematic because the new dentist may not be aware of the previous treatment history.
2.
When I visited Dentist A, I was continuously receiving medication and had my tooth treated until last week when it was finally filled.
However, today when I ate, it felt a bit strange—not exactly painful.
Later, I went to Dentist B, who said that the filling was quite large and that if there was any pain, I might need a root canal.
Shouldn't a filling be done only when it's ready to be filled?
3.
Is dental calculus cleaning the same as teeth cleaning? Under what circumstances should one get their teeth cleaned? Will it feel gritty afterward?
4.
Under what circumstances should wisdom teeth be extracted?
5.
After a root canal, how much does it typically cost to get a crown? How many crowns does health insurance cover? Also, is it generally not recommended to get braces before the age of 20 because growth is not yet complete?
Thank you for your answers, and I wish you a Happy New Year!

Lai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/01/24

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry.
Here are my responses and related suggestions:
1.
It is best for the same physician to oversee the treatment process for continuity of care.

2.
If your dental filling still feels uncomfortable, it may be due to deep decay that is close to the nerve, which could necessitate root canal treatment in the future.

3.
Dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is necessary if there is gum inflammation or accumulation of tartar.
This procedure removes plaque and calculus from the teeth and gum line to alleviate symptoms of gingival inflammation.

4.
If your wisdom teeth are misaligned and affecting oral hygiene, leading to recurrent pericoronitis, extraction is recommended.

5.
The need for a dental crown depends on the material used; health insurance does not cover this.
If you have experienced tooth loss or have undergone root canal treatment before the age of 20, a crown is still necessary to protect the tooth and restore chewing function.

Wishing you peace and happiness!

Reply Date: 2008/01/24

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding dental care and treatment. Let's address each of your concerns systematically.

1. Changing Dentists: It's generally advisable to maintain a consistent relationship with a single dentist when possible. This continuity allows the dentist to have a comprehensive understanding of your dental history, previous treatments, and any ongoing issues. When you switch dentists frequently, there may be gaps in communication regarding your dental care, which can lead to misunderstandings about your treatment plan. However, if you feel uncomfortable with your current dentist or if you believe they are not providing adequate care, it is perfectly acceptable to seek a second opinion or switch dentists. Just ensure that you provide your new dentist with your complete dental history for the best care.

2. Concerns About Treatment: It sounds like you had a filling done by Dentist A, and now Dentist B has raised concerns about the size of that filling and the potential need for a root canal. Generally, a filling should adequately restore the tooth's function without causing further issues. If you are experiencing discomfort after a filling, it could indicate that the decay was deeper than initially assessed, or that the filling material is not properly seated. If the tooth is still sensitive or painful, it may require further evaluation, possibly leading to a root canal if the nerve is affected. It’s essential to communicate your symptoms clearly to your dentist so they can determine the best course of action.

3. Dental Cleanings: Dental cleanings, often referred to as prophylaxis, are essential for maintaining oral health. They involve the removal of plaque and tartar (calculus) from the teeth, which can help prevent gum disease and cavities. You should consider getting a dental cleaning if you notice signs of gum disease (such as bleeding gums), if you have not had a cleaning in over six months, or if you have a buildup of tartar. After a cleaning, some patients may experience a slight roughness or sensitivity, but this should subside shortly.

4. Wisdom Teeth Extraction: Wisdom teeth, or third molars, may need to be extracted if they are impacted (not fully erupted), causing pain, or if there is insufficient space in the mouth for them to grow properly. Signs that wisdom teeth may need to be removed include pain, swelling, or infection in the gums surrounding the teeth. Regular dental check-ups can help monitor the development of wisdom teeth and determine if extraction is necessary.

5. Root Canals and Crowns: The cost of a root canal and subsequent crown can vary widely depending on your location, the complexity of the case, and whether you have dental insurance. In many cases, dental insurance will cover a portion of the cost. It's also true that many dentists recommend waiting until after the age of 20 to place braces, as the jaw and teeth are still developing during adolescence. However, this can vary based on individual circumstances, and some orthodontists may recommend early intervention if necessary.

In summary, maintaining a consistent relationship with your dentist is beneficial, but do not hesitate to seek a second opinion if you have concerns. Pay attention to any discomfort after dental procedures, and ensure you communicate these issues with your dentist. Regular cleanings are crucial for oral health, and wisdom teeth may need to be extracted based on their development. Finally, the costs associated with root canals and crowns can vary, so it's best to consult with your dentist and insurance provider for specific details.

Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.

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