Allergic to Fillings

I had my first filling a few months ago. My insurance only covered silver fillings so I went ahead and got those. Ever since, I haven’t felt right and my tongue has been itchy. I think I’m allergic to the filling. Have you heard of this? My dentist doesn’t think that’s the problem. Catie Dear Catie, If you’ve eliminated other possibilities then it could very well be your fillings. Some […]

New Lumineers over Old

I’ve had my lumineers for about 5 years. They’re okay but not as white as I wanted them. At the time, my dentist said that’s as white as they get. To me, they look dingy especially compared to other smile makeovers I’m seeing out there. I’m thinking about having him put new lumineers over them because it seems like you can get whiter now. However, my friend (who’s makeover is […]

Left: porcelain crown; Right: porcelain veneer

Can a Cosmetic Dentist Match One Crown?

I had crowns done many years ago on all my teeth. One of them felt loose last week so I scheduled an appointment with a new cosmetic dentist. He told me the crown needed to be replaced. That didn’t surprise me given its age. What did surprise me was he said I’d need to replace all of them in order for them to match. I was shocked to think he […]

Can Dentures Cause the Corners of Your Mouth to Crack?

I’ve had dentures for a year or so now, but recently the corners of my mouth have started hurting and cracking. Is this because of my dentures or is something else going on? It’s hurting every time I open my mouth now. I’m scared to tell my daughter because she keeps trying to put me in a home because she thinks I can’t care for myself but I can. Florence […]

Beautiful brunette smiling with gorgeous white teeth

Apple Cider Vinegar to Whiten Teeth

I keep looking for natural ways to whiten my teeth. One thing everyone on the natural health sites seems to tout the benefits of apple cider vinegar for many things. I recently read it can naturally whiten your teeth. Is that true? Or is it a waste of time? Cecelia Dear Cecelia, I’m sure nature has a safe way for us to whiten our teeth, but we haven’t discovered it […]

Porcelain Veneers or Crowns for Tetracycline Stains

I have embarrassing tetracycline stains. I’ve got a budget of about $30,000. I’ve been to see two dentists. One (Dr. B—)is suggesting a full set of dental crowns for about $27,000. The other, (Dr. M—) is suggesting porcelain veneers for $46,000. I’m leaning toward the crowns because they’re in my budget and I grind my teeth. I’m assuming crowns hold up better with that. But, my husband is insisting I […]

Am I Too Old for Dental Implants?

I’m one of those rather “mature” women. When I was 20 years younger, I lost most of my teeth due to a car accident. I was given dentures. I was never even told there were options to dentures. I tried to make the best of it. It was embarrassing having false teeth and they were never comfortable. My daughter just lost a tooth due to a massive infection. She replaced […]

A woman in a dental chair giving a thumbs up.

Finding the Best Dentist After Relocation

I’ve been relocated to a different state for my job. It will be a good move for us but there are so many things I have to start over. New doctor, new dentist, new internet…Can’t forget wifi. Are there some tips to finding out who is one of the bests dentists in an area? Brooke Dear Brooke, Moves are stressful! It’s fantastic that you’re already looking into your oral healthcare. […]

Why is Mercury-free Dentistry the Big Thing Now?

All I’m ever hearing about these days is “You must go to a mercury-free dentist.” Is this the new healthcare fads? Is it really as important as everyone is saying? Ben Dear Ben, Rather than a fad, I think of it more as a greater awareness. Until recently, most people didn’t realize the main ingredient in their silver fillings was mercury. Now they do. As mercury is a known toxin, […]

To Lumineers or Not to Lumineers?

I’ve gotten two smile makeover recommendations from two different dentists. I’m hoping you can break the tie. I live in another city so I know you won’t be swayed to try to get my business. The first dentist said I was a good candidate and recommended I do porcelain veneers. The second dentist also said I was a good candidate but suggested I do Lumineers. He said they’re better because […]