Monthly Archives: November 2016

Lumineers

Two of My Lumineers are Changing Color

I got six Lumineers. I was happy with them, but two of them seemed a little darker than the others. The dentist assured me they were fine  and the difference in their appearance was just a matter of the lighting in his office. However, even at home they look darker and seem to be getting darker every day. There is a bluish tint to them. What do I do?

Elisabeth T. – Missouri

Elisabeth,

Based on what you’ve said, and bear in mind that I haven’t examined you, it sounds like there is not a good seal on two of the Lumineers. That would allow food and drink to seep underneath which is not only causing the stained appearance, but will lead to decay.

Talk to your dentist and give him a chance to make it right. If he seems unwilling, you can always get a second opinion. Pressure from a peer’s opinion saying that it is improperly sealed may persuade him to make it right.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Kevin Peck.

Affordable Dentist

What If I Can’t Afford to Fix My Wisdom Teeth?

I need some help. I have a rotting and decaying wisdom tooth, that is causing severe throbbing and pain. Now the surrounding teeth are starting to decay; some already have holes in them. I’ve started to get pressure just to the side and below of my eyebrow, right along my left cheek bone closer to my ear. Should I rush to the ER or just get antibiotics and have it handled by a dentist when I can afford it?

Eric – Tennessee

Eric,
A very bad idea to try to get by or to try to just take some antibiotics. In fact, it won’t work.  An infected tooth is different than an infection in your body. The antibiotics only get to your blood stream, which won’t reach the inside of your tooth. The infection will just blow up again.

Believe it or not, people still die from tooth infections. I wouldn’t trifle with an infected wisdom tooth. It’s swelling around your eye now. What if this infection spreads to your brain? What will you do then?

There are affordable dentists that would be willing to work with you. Do an internet search then tell them your circumstances., I’m willing to bet more than one of them will be willing to work with you.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Kevin Peck.

Affordable Dentist

Is there an Affordable Way to Fix My Mouth?

I have neglected my teeth just a bit, then had a car accident that caused some mouth damage. I went to a dentist just to get an idea of what all needs to be done. Wow! Was I in for some sticker shock. I have three cavities, two chipped teeth, one cracked tooth, and two teeth knocked out. Apparently, medical insurance doesn’t cover dental issues, even after an accident. Is there an affordable way to get all this done?

Jeanna – San Diego

Jeanna,

You’re right. Medical insurance will not generally cover any dental work. It’s a shame too, because dental problems have a negative impact on your overall health.

The first thing I would do is talk to your dentist about your financial situation.  He can help you prioritize your treatments from most urgent down.

Then, ask what kind of affordable options he has for you. Most dentists have payment plans, or even a discount program that they run in-office.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Kevin Peck.