Dentist Doesn’t Understand the Problem, Yet Wants To Do Gum Surgery

I have had a difficult history with my teeth. First, in the 1980s, my teeth developed little holes on the surface. My dentist at the time suggested I treat it with dental bonding, which I did. That lasted for a while then it needed to be replaced. My old dentist had retired and the new dentist suggested two porcelain veneers and two dental crowns. I agreed to that. Fast forward a few years and the gums around those teeth are seriously inflammed and painful. My dentist does not really know what is causing it. We have tried an antibacterial liquid. I’m faithful at my dental appointments as well as brushing and flossing at home. None of my natural teeth have this problem, just the ones with the crowns and veneers. Now my dentist is suggesting trimming back the gums, but cannot tell me if it will solve the problem. The gums look awful and are very painful. Now I have lichen planus and I am desperate. Do I go ahead with this surgery?

Paul

Dear Paul,

There are a few reasons for gum inflammation.

1. The cement wasn’t fully cleaned out from around the dental crowns and or porcelain veneers.
2. The crowns or veneers are not fit properly.
3. The dental work goes too deeply under the gumline.
4. You are experiencing an allergic reaction to the material in the crowns.
5. There may be an open margin by the gums that is trapping bacteria.
6. The final possibility is gum disease

I think we can elimanate the first three right away. They would not have waited this long to start showing the symptoms you are experiencing now. The fourth option is unlikely but still possible. Generally, an allergic reaction happens at the onset of exposure, but it can take time to develop. However, if the inflammation is around the porcelain veneers or your crowns are all-porcelain, I find this highly unlikely. The type of allergy seen in this situation is a result of porcelain fused to metal crowns. It is actually the metal that would be the cause of the reaction.

I do not think this is the best dentist for you. This should not be as complicated as they are making it. I do not reccommned you allow this dentist to move forward with the procedure on your gums. Instead, I want you to get a second opinion from another dentist that can examine you. I’m guessing you’ll have a diagnoses.

This blog is brought to you by West Seneca Dentist Dr. Carl Embury.