Archives for July 2012

Closing a gap with teeth effects bands

July 31, 2012 by writeradmin

I have a small gap between my teeth. I’ve heard that Teeth Effects bands can close these. What do you think as a dentist about them?

Donald B.- Alexander, AR

Donald,

Please be careful about this. These are nothing more than simple rubberbands. Instead of sliding your teeth together they will tip your teeth together, which will permanently damage your teeth. I would go with traditional braces, or maybe Invisalign. If you are otherwise happy with your teeth alignment, you might be able to find a local dentist who does dental bonding and can close the small gap that way.

This blog is brought to you by Tulsa dentist Dr. Ryan Noah.

Dealing with acid reflux

July 30, 2012 by writeradmin

I have very bad acid reflux. Recently, it has caused sensitivity in my back fillings. Is there anything I can do about that?

Robbie B.- San Antonio, TX

Robbie,

As the name implies, acid reflux is very acidic which is damaging to the enamel on your teeth. I suspect it is your teeth that are sensitive, not your fillings. The ideal solution is to deal with the acid reflux, but if that is going to take a while you may want to get porcelain crowns on your back teeth to help protect them. This is not a solution because the acid will attack the thin strip of tooth that the crown doesn’t cover. In the meantime, make sure that every time you have a reflux episode, to brush your teeth immediately.

This blog is brought to you by Tulsa Dentist Dr. Ryan Noah.