I had a dental crown done on a tooth near the front. There has been serious gum inflammation since then and it hasn’t gotten better even after seeing my dentist and a periodontist. The periodontist said it looks like the dentist made the crown too deep and close to the bone. He’s recommending periodontal surgery but says there is no guarantee. Does that mean the surgery could be pointless and I’m stuck with this?
Ryan
Dear Ryan,
Based on what I’m reading, it sounds like your dentist went too deep into the gums when placing your dental crown, which violated the biological width of your teeth. The inflammation is an indication you now have gum disease as a result. This has to be treated. If it is left untreated, you risk serious problems, including tooth loss.
As for your periodontist saying there are no guarantees, that is a pretty standard statement. A dentist would have to be insane to guarantee a procedure would work. It wouldn’t matter what you were doing, there are never guarantees. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have the procedure.
If you’re concerned, you could always get a second opinion. There are even dentists who will give free second opinions. As it sounds like your dentist is responsible for the situation you are in, he should also take responsibility to make it right.
One thing I recommend while you’re finalizing treatment is to use Peridex to help with the inflammation. However, this stains teeth. The only toothpaste I’m aware of that helps with that side effect is Supersmile. If you get the Peridex, make sure you use this particular toothpaste with it.
This blog is brought to you by Baton Rouge Dentist Dr. Steven Collins.