expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Michael Frith, DDS

Dentist

Dr. Michael Frith is a Dentist practicing in Ballwin, MO. Dr. Frith specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic procedures, and performing examinations, among many others.
Dr. Michael Frith, DDS
  • Ballwin, MO
  • University of Iowa
  • Accepting new patients

Are implants better than bridges?

Implants and dental bridges are both popular tooth replacements, both with advantages and disadvantages. Implants will replace one tooth and not damage other adjacent ones, but READ MORE
Implants and dental bridges are both popular tooth replacements, both with advantages and disadvantages. Implants will replace one tooth and not damage other adjacent ones, but many times it may take 9-12 months to get the final tooth because the bone must successfully integrate with the implant, which takes 3-6 months. Dental bridges can usually be prepared and placed within 1-2 months, but the adjacent teeth must be prepared (reduced to make room for the porcelain or metal). The costs are similar. Please see your dentist to see what is best for you. (I've had a dental 3 tooth bridge done in my mouth, and 2 implants also). I am happy with both..Michael Frith DDS

What is the reason for gum pain?

Hi, gum pain can be from many causes. The main one is a gum infection at the tooth -gum border from inadequate cleaning of the tooth root and gum. Use a soft toothbrush (manual READ MORE
Hi, gum pain can be from many causes. The main one is a gum infection at the tooth -gum border from inadequate cleaning of the tooth root and gum. Use a soft toothbrush (manual or electric) to massage the gum and tooth root, use dental floss under the gum between the teeth, use a Waterpik device on the gum. Another cause might be food stuck under the gum (ie. popcorn kernel or piece of meat) that needs to be removed. Another cause might be an abscessed tooth or fractured tooth root. You will need to see a dentist / hygienist to evaluate your exact cause and remedy. Good luck, Michael Frith DDS

How do you replace a missing canine tooth?

Replacing a canine can be done by 1) placing a dental implant and crown over it (if there is adequate bone). 2) Attaching it to adjacent teeth (called a fixed bridge) , or 3) using READ MORE
Replacing a canine can be done by 1) placing a dental implant and crown over it (if there is adequate bone). 2) Attaching it to adjacent teeth (called a fixed bridge) , or 3) using a removable partial denture. Dr Michael Frith (DDS)

Can you chew gum with a traditional dental bridge?

You should be able to chew gum, I'd allow my patients to do it. If down the road, something comes loose, then it wasn't on there very solid and needs to be recemented anyway. Michael READ MORE
You should be able to chew gum, I'd allow my patients to do it. If down the road, something comes loose, then it wasn't on there very solid and needs to be recemented anyway. Michael Frith DDS

Stomach pain

The toothache might be a tooth infection, even though the pain went away, an infection may be present and can be linked to other parts of your body. I'd see the dentist and your READ MORE
The toothache might be a tooth infection, even though the pain went away, an infection may be present and can be linked to other parts of your body. I'd see the dentist and your physician as soon as possible..Dr Michael Frith DDS

Dental implants

The Eliquis would complicate the implant placement. It's best to consult your physician who put you on the Eliquis, to see if he (she) can safely stop the Eliquis for a short READ MORE
The Eliquis would complicate the implant placement. It's best to consult your physician who put you on the Eliquis, to see if he (she) can safely stop the Eliquis for a short period of time to have the implant placed. Michael Frith DDS

What is wrong with my tongue

I'd recommend you see an Oral Surgeon or ENT physician for their opinion. It sounds rather serious. Michael Frith DDS

Will my teeth hurt after a dental cleaning?

It depends on the Dental Hygienist (or dentist) and the condition of your teeth and gums. Most of the time there is very little pain, and many times a topical anesthetic can be READ MORE
It depends on the Dental Hygienist (or dentist) and the condition of your teeth and gums. Most of the time there is very little pain, and many times a topical anesthetic can be placed during the procedure to eliminate any pain. Good luck and God bless, ..Michael Frith DDS

Can you bite with front crowns?

I allow my patients to bite on their front crowns, Porcelain crowns are one of our strongest restorations. Michael Frith DDS

Are zirconia veneers permanent?

In my opinion, we prefer to avoid the word 'permanent' in dentistry. Zirconia veneers are the strongest porcelain restorations that we have currently. Their bond strength to the READ MORE
In my opinion, we prefer to avoid the word 'permanent' in dentistry. Zirconia veneers are the strongest porcelain restorations that we have currently. Their bond strength to the tooth doesn't seem to be as strong as to other porcelains. They will probably not break, but may need to be
rebonded occasionally. I prefer to use Emax porcelain restorations for veneers for their more natural look and better bond strength to the tooth...

Which is better zirconia or ceramic crown for the front tooth?

I prefer an emax crown on the front teeth. They are the most cosmetic looking (natural looking). Zirconia crowns are strongest, but not as cosmetic or natural looking. I use Zirconia READ MORE
I prefer an emax crown on the front teeth. They are the most cosmetic looking (natural looking). Zirconia crowns are strongest, but not as cosmetic or natural looking. I use Zirconia crowns on all my molar teeth for the strength factor.

Can a regular dentist do a root canal?

Root Canals: (Regular) General Dentists are trained in all dental schools to perform Root Canal therapy. Each dentist can choose to do them or not depending on different reasons. READ MORE
Root Canals: (Regular) General Dentists are trained in all dental schools to perform Root Canal therapy. Each dentist can choose to do them or not depending on different reasons. If a general dentist chooses not to do Root Canal Therapy, then the dentist will refer that patient to a Root Canal specialist (Called an Endodontist) who will perform the Root Canal and send them back to their general dentist to restore the tooth with either a filling or a crown for long term strengthening... Michael Frith DDS

What are the disadvantages of a dental crown?

Disadvantages to a crown are 1) cost ($1,000- $1,600 range) and 2) moderate tooth reduction of the enamel layer to make room to strengthen it with gold, metal, or porcelain. When READ MORE
Disadvantages to a crown are 1) cost ($1,000- $1,600 range) and 2) moderate tooth reduction of the enamel layer to make room to strengthen it with gold, metal, or porcelain. When indicated, it can save your tooth from fracturing, breaking down and sensitivity.