Ask the Doctor

Q:  Dear Dr. Mason, which is better silver or white fillings?

A:   They both have advantages and disadvantages.   The white is more  esthetic and strengthens the remaining tooth, however it is    

more costly, requires  enamel to bond to, and may not hold up as well on extensive molar repairs.  Silver is durable, fast, and less expensive with a proven one hundred year track record.  However, it is not esthetic and does not strengthen the remaining tooth.

     In our office, we are proficient with both materials, so the choice is made after carefully assessing the patients particular situation and desires.  Dr. Mason

Q:  I have heard a lot about dental implants.  What are they and do they  work?

A:  A dental implant is a titanium screw that replaces the root of your tooth. Usually a periodontist or oral surgeon  will place the implant into the bone.  Your dentist will make a special buildup called an abutment that a crown will attach to.  Dental implants have been around for many years and with the implementation of the internal hex connection they are exceptionally reliable.   With a dental implant we now have the ability to remove a hopeless tooth and just “put a new tooth back”.  Sometimes an implant may not be the best choice or even possible, so your dentist should discuss your options and help you make the right choice for your particular needs and situation.   Dr. Mason

Q:  My dentist told me I need to have a root canal.  What is it,  why do I need, it and does it hurt?

A:  When a tooth has an infection at the tip of the root or a tooth is very painful or sensitive, a root canal may be needed.  A root canal simply cleans debris and infection out of the canals of a tooth.  Your dentist may do the root canal himself or if it is a complex root, your dentist may refer you to a root canal specialist called an endodontist.

When performed properly there  is usually no, or very minimal discomfort, during or after the procedure.  In many cases, a crown will be recommended to prevent fracture of the root canaled tooth and to restore strength and function.  Dr. Mason

Q: I have a young child.  At what age should I bring him to the dentist?

A:  In our office, we are comfortable treating children starting at age 3.  We  are a family dental practice and many families prefer having one dentist for the entire family.

If there are special situations requiring treatment by a specialist, we can refer the child to a Pedodontist.  Some pediatric practices may start seeing children as young as  one and a half.   Dr. Mason

Q:  Dr. Mason, I have noticed that you wear special glasses when you do your work.   What is the deal with that?

A:  All my dental care is delivered under 4.4 power telescopic magnification.  This allow  for exceptional visualization and precision.   It also allows me to have better posture.   Due to the telescopic nature of the lenses, even though I am 17 inches away from the mouth , the teeth appear only inches away when looking through the loupes.   I also utilize high powered LED lighting, which projects perfect  lighting,  eliminating shadows and the “light in your eye” issue for the patient.   Loupes are now  included in the first year dental students armamentarium and is quickly becoming the “standard of care” in dentistry.

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Please email all your questions to dr.jeffreymason@gmail.com

and they will be answered and posted within 7 days