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Q: I knocked my front tooth a couple of months ago. It hurt for a week then stopped, but now it has turned dark. What should I do? A: A tooth that turns dark after trauma often indicates that the tooth’s nerve has died, leading to internal discoloration. This can . . . Read more
Q: When should I get my silver fillings replaced? A: Silver (amalgam) fillings typically last 10–20 years, but they can begin to corrode or degrade over time, often after about 20 years. This corrosion can weaken the filling, cause leakage around the edges, or contribute to cracks in the tooth, . . . Read more
Q:Should I replace my silver fillings even though I am pregnant. A:No optional dental work should be done while you are pregnant, other than cleanings. Usually you should only receive invasive treatment when you are in pain or have an infection. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San . . . Read more
Q: Why is a crown better than a filling? A: A crown is not inherently better than a filling; the best restoration depends on the tooth’s condition. If there is sufficient healthy tooth structure remaining, a filling is often the preferred choice as it is less invasive, preserves more natural . . . Read more
Q:Are silver fillings toxic? A:Silver fillings contain mercury which is a toxic substance. The amount of mercury that is released is debatable. Luckily, now there are filling materials that are better than silver fillings. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years. www.michaelmaksimdds.com . . . Read more
Q:Does decay always hurt? A:Actually in most cases decay progresses slow enough that there is no discomfort. Usually it is only when deep decay starts to kill the nerve that pain may occur. I usually use an intraoral camera or X-rays to show patients their decay. Dr. Maksim has been . . . Read more
Q:Can your teeth become sensitive after fillings are placed? Even if they weren’t sensitive before fillings. A:Unfortunately, yes because drilling is traumatic. However, several things can be done to minimize post operative pain. And the alternative of letting your tooth continue to decay is not very sensible. Dr. Maksim has . . . Read more
Q:When should a patient get bone grafting? A:You should consider bone grafting whenever you have an extraction. The bone graft will help maintain the bone of the adjacent teeth and provide bone for a future dental implant. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over . . . Read more
Q:Why are there different types of crowns. A:Crowns can be all metal for full strength. All ceramic for best beauty. Full zirconia for good strength and beauty. Porcelin fused to metal for moderately decent strength and beauty. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over . . . Read more
Q: How often should I get my teeth cleaned? A: For individuals with healthy gums and no signs of periodontal disease, a dental cleaning every six months is typically recommended to maintain optimal oral health. For those with gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, or bone loss, more frequent . . . Read more