Ask Dr. Etingin: Chipped Tooth Repair; Rhinoplasty for Sinusitis
My front tooth has chipped several times. Each time the dentist repairs it, the fix lasts from 6 months to a year, and then it reoccurs. What are my options?
Chipping the same tooth repeatedly can be both frustrating and concerning, as it not only affects your smile but may also indicate underlying issues. Because you have repeated chipping issues, it’s essential to consider what might be causing the damage. Grinding your teeth (bruxism) is a possible culprit. Addressing this habit is crucial to prevent future chips. In some cases, a custom night guard might be recommended to protect your teeth from grinding while you sleep.
A common and cost-effective solution is dental bonding, which involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the chipped area, which is then shaped and hardened with a special light. While bonding is a convenient solution, it isn’t always durable, as you know from experience. If you’re looking for something more long-lasting, a dental veneer might be the better option. Veneers are thin porcelain shells that cover the front surface of the tooth, providing a more durable and aesthetically pleasing result. The process typically requires two visits for tooth preparation and another for veneer placement. The cost varies from $800 to $2,500 per tooth, but veneers can last 10 to 15 years with proper care. Dental insurance rarely covers any portion of the cost of veneers.
Crowns are another viable option for a tooth that has already undergone multiple repairs. A crown is a cap that covers the entire tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. This option offers more durability than bonding and veneers. The cost of a crown can range from $800 to $3,000 per tooth, depending on the material and your dentist’s fees, but dental insurance sometimes partially covers crowns. Ultimately, the best option depends on your needs, budget, and the advice of a dental professional, but investing in a durable solution might save you from frequent dental visits and additional costs in the long run.
I have chronic sinusitis and frequent sinus infections. My doctor recommended rhinoplasty. Will I stop getting sinus infections? Will insurance pay for it? What can I expect as far as recovery?
If you’re dealing with chronic sinusitis and frequent sinus infections, your doctor may recommend rhinoplasty, and this recommendation could be a game-changer. Rhinoplasty, which is often referred to as a “nose job” and considered a cosmetic procedure, is also highly effective for addressing medical issues like a deviated septum or other structural abnormalities that contribute to sinus problems. By reshaping the nasal passages, rhinoplasty can improve airflow and sinus drainage, which may significantly reduce the frequency and severity of your sinus infections.
When rhinoplasty is performed for medical reasons, there’s a good chance your insurance carrier might cover part or all of the cost. It’s essential to work closely with your doctor and insurance provider to ensure that the necessary documentation is provided to prove the medical necessity of the surgery. As for recovery, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, but these symptoms typically subside within a week or two. Most people return to their normal activities within two weeks, though full recovery may take several months. The good news is that by addressing the root cause of your sinus problems, rhinoplasty could help reduce or even eliminate your chronic sinus infections. While there are no guarantees that you’ll never get another sinus infection, it is common to experience significant relief after the procedure.
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