expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. David Plaut, DMD

Dentist

Dr. David Plaut DMD is a top Dentist in Lakewood, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. David Plaut DMD is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. David Plaut DMD is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. David Plaut DMD is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Lakewood, NJ, Dr. David Plaut DMD is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
Dr. David Plaut, DMD
  • Lakewood, NJ
  • Accepting new patients

Are slightly yellow teeth normal?

Yes. Look at other people's teeth, they are all more than slightly yellow. If yours are slightly, then you have white teeth.

Why are my taste buds so big?

No, not necessary

Will I need anesthesia for a root canal?

I had a root canal done on my tooth a few weeks ago and I did not have anesthesia. I have done many RCT's without anesthesia. Most people are too afraid to try it, but often the READ MORE
I had a root canal done on my tooth a few weeks ago and I did not have anesthesia. I have done many RCT's without anesthesia. Most people are too afraid to try it, but often the nerves are totally gone in the tooth, and drilling in the tooth does not cause pain. If I think that may be the case, I offer the patient to try and do it without anesthesia , but if it starts to hurt, I would immediately numb the area. Practically speaking, most of the time, the dentist will numb you, but if you really hate that numb feeling, it's worth a try!

Why do my gums bleed after flossing?

Many reasons, first you have to ascertain in which areas it bleeds. Is it in one area mainly, or multiple areas? Is it in the upper front teeth or the lower front teeth. If it READ MORE
Many reasons, first you have to ascertain in which areas it bleeds. Is it in one area mainly, or multiple areas? Is it in the upper front teeth or the lower front teeth. If it is in mainly one area in the back teeth, then it's most likely a filling that is not smooth or extending slightly into the gums. Sometimes this can be fixed by smoothing the filling or sometimes the filling need to be redone. Often, if there is a crown, there will be constant bleeding around the edges. Either you live with it, or redo the crown. If the bleeding is more generalized, it may mean that you need a scaling to clean the calculus between the teeth. IF it's in the front teeth then it could mean that you are a mouth breather and that causes the front gums to be inflamed. These are the most common causes, I hope that helps.

Are dental implants safe?

If you mean do they have any adverse side effects, the answer is NO, but if you mean do they always work, or do they have complications, the answer is yes! Every treatment has READ MORE
If you mean do they have any adverse side effects, the answer is NO, but if you mean do they always work, or do they have complications, the answer is yes! Every treatment has problems and contraindications. The biggest determinate of the magnitude of the problem is the skill and experience of the operator (i.e., the dentist).
Good luck.

How long does a dental bridge last?

Highly dependent on the skill of the dentist and the situation, so for example, if it is a 3-unit bridge, it will usually last longer that a 6-unit. Also, what is the condition READ MORE
Highly dependent on the skill of the dentist and the situation, so for example, if it is a 3-unit bridge, it will usually last longer that a 6-unit. Also, what is the condition of the underlying teeth? How many teeth where missing and how many teeth are used to support those missing teeth? 5-6 years is a short time and 30+ years would be a long time.

How many times a day should I floss?

For the vast majority of people flossing does not serve any dental purpose, there are no scientific studies showing that flossing improves dental health. It is recommended to floss, READ MORE
For the vast majority of people flossing does not serve any dental purpose, there are no scientific studies showing that flossing improves dental health. It is recommended to floss, because it is believed that the cleaner the teeth are, the better off you are. Maybe yes maybe no. So, floss as much as you want to.

What are the disadvantages of dental bridges?

The main disadvantage is that the 2 adjacent teeth need to be reduced in order to make room for the two abutment crowns. Also, the is a chance that making the bridge will cause READ MORE
The main disadvantage is that the 2 adjacent teeth need to be reduced in order to make room for the two abutment crowns. Also, the is a chance that making the bridge will cause a root canal on one of the adjacent teeth. If they are not fitting well, food can get stuck around and under the bridge. It's fairly common that the teeth occluding opposite the bridge can break after a few years. Over time, the is a higher incidence of periodontal problem s around the bridge. Implants have their problems as well. What the dentists don't tell you is that often not treatment is the best option. Just because you are missing a tooth does not mean that you must fill in the space. You have to see the whole picture. I myself lost a tooth and have not replaced it for 5 years and it's doing just fine. So, always consider doing nothing.

What are the treatment options for cavity?

1. Nothing. If it's a small lesion and not likely to grow, I would wait until next year at check time to watch it. Most of the time, it take years for a cavity to grow. There are READ MORE
1. Nothing. If it's a small lesion and not likely to grow, I would wait until next year at check time to watch it. Most of the time, it take years for a cavity to grow. There are some people that cavities grow fast in.
2. In some cases, they can be reversed using a product called icon.
3. Fill it with either white filling or silver or glass ionomer.

Which is better, bridge or implant?

Implants are popular these days, and they do have advantages no question. Bridges also have advantages, and sometime the dentist will steer you to the choice they want without READ MORE
Implants are popular these days, and they do have advantages no question. Bridges also have advantages, and sometime the dentist will steer you to the choice they want without exploring the advantages of other treatments.

Is a periodontal follow up needed if my gingivitis is mild?

In my opinion, based on my 40 years of experience and my understanding of the research literature, there is no basis for extensive treatment or follow-up with mild peridontitis. READ MORE
In my opinion, based on my 40 years of experience and my understanding of the research literature, there is no basis for extensive treatment or follow-up with mild peridontitis.

How can I straighten my teeth?

There are many ways to straighten teeth: Invisalign, inman aligner, lingual braces, six-month power prox, to name a few.

Is it good to floss your teeth?

I tell people it's like taking a shower. It's a good thing to take a shower, it keeps you clean and fresh, but no one will say that you will live longer because of it. In my experience, READ MORE
I tell people it's like taking a shower. It's a good thing to take a shower, it keeps you clean and fresh, but no one will say that you will live longer because of it. In my experience, and reviewing the scientific literature, I have not seen any direct evidence that flossing regularly leads to keeping your teeth longer. So, I tell people that if you're only doing it to enhance your dental health, it is far from clear that it will. It may do so, but it may have no effect, and I think that in the majority of people, floss has no effect in the longevity and the health of the teeth. It may reduce inflammation around the gums, but it is not clear what role, if any, that has in the longevity of the teeth in the mouth.

What's the best painkiller for tooth extraction?

Easiest thing is to take 2 extra strength tylenol together with 3 advil every 4- 6 hours. You must take it consistently whether is hurts or not to be effective.

What are the symptoms of an infection after tooth extraction?

Some extractions heal slowly. If overall the site is better than it was a couple of days ago, just wait it out. If it is the same or worse, then go to a dentist office.

Why do my teeth keep breaking?

A few possibilities: 1) Poor restorative work. White composite fillings are notorious for having recurrent decay and breaking apart. 2) You have a dry mouth due to taking READ MORE
A few possibilities:

1) Poor restorative work. White composite fillings are notorious for having recurrent decay and breaking apart.
2) You have a dry mouth due to taking some medication of mouth breathing
3) You are unknowingly clenching or rubbing your teeth during the day or at night, which can cause breaking of the teeth.
4) Your teeth are not coming together properly, this is called occlusion, a poor occlusion can cause such symptoms.

Good luck.

When should my wisdom teeth be removed?

In general, if they don't hurt, wisdom teeth do not need to be removed. There are exceptions, but they are removed many times unnecessarily.

What is the cause of my tooth pain?

If the pain is localized in a specific area, then it's likely that there is either new decay, or more likely recurrent decay under an old fillings. Another possibility is there READ MORE
If the pain is localized in a specific area, then it's likely that there is either new decay, or more likely recurrent decay under an old fillings. Another possibility is there may be some erosion around the part or the tooth next to the gum, which is sometimes sensitive to sweetness.

Why does a cracked tooth have to be pulled?

Not every cracked tooth needs to be pulled. In some cases, a large filling or a crown can fix the crack. In some cases, the tooth may need a root canal and restoration. There are READ MORE
Not every cracked tooth needs to be pulled. In some cases, a large filling or a crown can fix the crack. In some cases, the tooth may need a root canal and restoration. There are situations that the crack is so deep, or where it cannot be seen, that the tooth needs to come out. Another important consideration is how long it's worth it for you to fix a tooth. In other words, if you can fix the tooth for 3 years, is it worth it for you? Dentists are trained to always looks at the long haul, so they typically recommend treatment that will stay for the longest time. I don't think that is the only way to go, some people may want to fix things for the short-term. So, you must discuss this with your dentist. My experience is that there are
some dentists that pull teeth that could be saved (I had one come in yesterday), so I would advise you to get another opinion before you agree to remove the tooth.

When should I consider porcelain veneers?

Veneers are an option, the other option is orthodontics, probably with Invisalign. The advantage of veneers is that it's quicker, and you can improve the aesthetics of the teeth, READ MORE
Veneers are an option, the other option is orthodontics, probably with Invisalign. The advantage of veneers is that it's quicker, and you can improve the aesthetics of the teeth, as well as make them much whiter, if you so desire. The disadvantage is that it will be probably more expensive, and the veneers have a life span of about 10 years. Then they may need to be replaced. Basically, once you have the veneers, they must stay there the rest of your life. Also, there is no guarantee that they teeth won't move even after they have veneers in the future. So, if you have otherwise nice teeth, do the ortho, if your teeth could benefit from the veneers, then go with the veneers.
Good luck!