Maui Doctors

Two Recently Crowned Teeth Need Root Canals?

I recently got two crown lengthing/crowns. I waited a month between the lengthening and crown. It's two weeks later and I'm still throbbing in pain. It's hyper sensitive to cold. Now he says I need a root canal, without even looking in my mouth. I'm suspicious that two teeth suddenly need canals and suspect the process. These new crowns are all ceramic (not metal on ceramic) and I read the cement used might be the issue. I'm leaning towards getting a second opinion.

Teeth can be sensitive for a number of reasons. The sensitivity could be more root exposure after the crown lengthening. It could be a bonding issue, or it could be due to the Occlusion (bite). Many times when crowns are placed you are numb. When the dentist checks the bite you think you are biting correctly, however, the you may have a slight interference when biting or moving your teeth. I would have your dentist check your bite first, and then start to eliminate other possibilities. I would not just jump right into root canals, unless you have some radiographic indications, or spontaneous pain, or swelling. I  believe that a second opinion can not hurt. The best thing is to visit the dentist who originally did the work  and resolve this with him/her.

James Merrett, DDS

Maui Cosmetic Dentist

Why Are my Two Front Teeth Still Different Sizes After Filing to Correct This Issue? (photo)

I had my 2 front teeth filed down. The first dentist didn't file them to my satisfaction. The tooth on the right seemed longer. I went to a cosmetic dentist and had the one on the right filed again, but to my eye it STILL looks longer. Why is it so hard to get them even? I know that on the left tooth, the inner gum line is different (slanted, almost), and that doesn't help visually. But when I bite STRAIGHT down on a ruler my right tooth hits it when my left tooth doesn't. Am I being too picky?

I would first ask " What are you trying to achieve?" Are you trying to get a cosmetic look?? Are you trying to have the teeth function equally?" It looks to me the the 3rd photo is reversed.  Another question I would is how many rulers are you eating?? (Joke) It is also very hard to make a diagnosis with out seeing what your lower teeth are doing. Your tooth position can often be determined by where your lower teeth are located. Are you a tooth grinder (bruxer). I would have a conversation with the dentist, and ask for options, and make the best decision given all of you choices and what you are trying to achieve.

James Merrett, DDS

Maui Cosmetic Dentist

My Face is Still Swollen Four Weeks After Getting Juvederm, What's The Cause?

I had my first injections done on my nasobilobial folds in December. In January I went back and the injector touch me up. My face has been swollen and is very sore ever since. Today is the 26 Jan. I am putting Arnica gel on the right side where my lump is but it is not helping. What is the matter and should I have some of it dissolved?

everyone one is defferent, i would ask if this is the first time for you?  

also do  skin test for this product

lastly call the mfg to ask this

Micki Ly, MD

Maui Dermatologic Surgeon