~Oh No, Broken Tooth~Guidance

Believe51 · 01-22-2009, 02:19 PM

Mighty Oak has broken a back tooth. Being on Zometa for 28 months is a concern; still in radiation so we cannot do anything yet. Trying to be proactive but did not get a chance with this one. He did see a dentist for the brief period of time he was stable.

Should I be looking for a specialty dentist?? What do you all suggest??>>Believe51

vickie h · 01-22-2009, 05:53 PM

Hi Marie,
After being a front office manager in a dental office for over 15 years, I can offer you some advice. Please get Ed to a dentist, he doesn't need a specialty dentist (ie endodontist0 unless the break is pretty far down or near a nerve. Does it hurt when he breathes in and out with his mouth open? Does hot or cold liquid hurt? If not, he still needs to been seen and have that tooth taken care of.
I know they say not to have dental work done when on chemo, but I still go in to keep my mouth and gums healthy. You don't want dental caries starting there because of the bacteria, which is hard on the immune system. Call your dentist and at least have it xrayed and you can go from there. Wishing you the best, Love and hugs, Vickie

harrie · 01-25-2009, 01:32 AM

I agree with Vickie. At this point you do not need to see a specialist. A general dentist should be fine to evaluate the situation. Depending on the severity of the fracture will determine what kind of treatment is recommended. In any case, it should be evaluated now. Treatment considerations can be made consistent with what needs to be done and his current medical status.
The general dentist can refer out to a specialist depending on the treatment required.