September 2012 - Lowell Cosmetic Dentistry Blog

I had a bad accident 5 months ago and 2 of the teeth in my upper bridge got chipped. The teeth haven’t been priority because I had more serious injuries but now I am wondering if the bridge can be fixed. Thanks T.J.

T.J.

It is good to know that you are recovering from your accident. An expert cosmetic will be able to repair your porcelain bridge. The special techniques required are the same as those used to repair porcelain crowns.

Not only are special techniques required, but specialized materials and equipment are needed to professionally restore the bridge.

The chipped porcelain needs to be cleaned, rinsed, and etched. If the bridge has a metal foundation, the metal must also be etched. Care must be taken to only etch the part of the bridge that needs repair. A saline coupling agent is used to prime the porcelain, after which it is coated with bonding resin. Any exposed metal in the bridge will be treated with a metal bonding agent and an opaquer. Quality composite bonding resins will be used to match the color and translucency of the original porcelain. The composite then be polished.

Be aware that smoking, drinking, and excessive alcohol drinking can wear on the bonding or stain it, affecting how long the repair lasts.

This blog post is sponsored by Lowell cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

I am a dipping tobacco user. Where the tobacco sits on the gums, I see creases or wrinkles. It’s hard to describe exactly what it looks like. Could this be a sign of cancer? I’m really not interested in what you think of my habit. I know what I need to do. But I thank you in advance for your response. – Patrick

Patrick – Smokeless tobacco irritates tissue—gum tissue, as well as your mouth, tongue and lips can all be affected. It is known to cause white, chalky wrinkles in your mouth. Internal organs, including your bladder, colon, pancreas, and esophagus can be affected.

A biopsy has to be performed to diagnose oral cancer. Some of the symptoms of oral cancer are loose teeth, a white or red patch inside your mouth, painful or difficult swallowing, painful or difficult chewing, tongue pain, and sore throat. This is not a complete list of symptoms. If possible, allow time for the irritation in your mouth to heal by avoiding tobacco use, at least temporarily.

Don’t delay making an appointment with your doctor or dentist for an examination and biopsy.

This post is sponsored by Lowell cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

Can chipped teeth on my dental bridge be fixed?

Are the wrinkles in my mouth oral cancer?

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