Question: Can you say how many teeth can be safely removed all at one from an elderly stroke patient? Is it safe to remove eight all at once?

Answer: Yes it is. If the patient is under medical control and stable, there is no problem in doing multiple extractions at once. It will be better to be done by a practitioner with knowledge and experience like an oral surgeon.

Ask an Expert: Alfredo Hernandez DDS, MS, Dental and Oral Health (Seniors) View full article

Thrush in the Mouth

Question: What do you do for a 86 year old man with thrush in the mouth?

Answer: Evaluation of clinical signs in combination with exfoliative cytologic examination before selection of the antifungal medication.

Ask an Expert: Alfredo Hernandez DDS, MS, Dental and Oral Health (Seniors) View full article

Long Term Storage of Dentures

Question: I just got new dentures, and want to save my old ones, for emergencies. What is the best way to store my old ones? I previously put them in water, however they become moldy. I`d appreciate any suggestions. Thank you.

Answer: I will suggest to store in a dry plastic container (small plastic box with cover). If they will be reused, you will need to put them in water for at least 24 hours prior to use.

Ask an Expert: Alfredo Hernandez DDS, MS, Dental and Oral Health (Seniors) View full article

Pain After Chewing Food

Question: Recently I experience considerable mouth pain after chewing food, even relatively soft food like a piece of bread. Sometimes there`s a delay in the pain till an hour or so after eating. I seem to be sensitive to very hot and cold foods as well. The pain doesn`t seem to be localized to one particular . . .

Answer: I don’t have any idea of what could be causing your pain. It could be many things. I suggest you consult with your dentist and family physician. They may need to do some exams and take some diagnostic images to find out the source of your pain.

Ask an Expert: Alfredo Hernandez DDS, MS, Dental and Oral Health (Seniors) View full article

Pain From Eating Sweet Foods

Question: I experience considerable pain in a particular area of my mouth when I eat anything sweet -- even fruit that has a lot of natural sugar, and also frozen desserts like ice cream. It`s hard to localize exactly, but I think it comes from one or more specific teeth. I don`t feel infected, although I do . . .

Answer:

Simple causes are:

1. Accumulation of plaque and bacteria in some areas that cause caries, bone lost, gum disease.

2. Excessive erosion or abrasion of the teeth (especially in senior patients or grinders) can cause sensitivity.

3. Natural wear of the teeth can cause sen . . .

Ask an Expert: Alfredo Hernandez DDS, MS, Dental and Oral Health (Seniors) View full article