EXPERT
Dr. Mitchell V. Karl, DDS
Dentist
Dr. Karl has been practicing in the field of dentistry for 31 years. He graduated from NYU Dental School in 1981, and completed a general practice residency program at Monmouth Medical Center the following year. The F.A.G.D. (Fellow, Academy of General Dentistry) honor was awarded to him in 1986. Prior to dental school, Dr. Karl attended Rutgers University. He graduated Rutgers College with Phi Beta Kappa, and Honors in Biochemistry as a Henry Rutgers Scholar.
Dr. Karl has been servicing the central New Jersey area in the private practice of dentistry since November 1983, maintaining staff affiliation with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick.
Dr. Karl has been servicing the central New Jersey area in the private practice of dentistry since November 1983, maintaining staff affiliation with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick.
Dr. Mitchell V. Karl, DDS
- East Brunswick, New Jersey
- New York University College of Dentistry
- Accepting new patients
Head, Neck, and Face Pains
Most people have experienced a "toothache" at one time or another. Have you ever wondered why some aches seem to go away and others do not? How can you determine when it is wise...
My tongue is white. Is this really bad?
There are many possible explanations for the white coating on your tongue. The best advice is to seek a dental professional to observe your tongue, and take a history of when the READ MORE
There are many possible explanations for the white coating on your tongue. The best advice is to seek a dental professional to observe your tongue, and take a history of when the coating had first developed or had been noticed. The doctor will want to know how long you have had the coating. Also, did you try brushing your tongue with your toothbrush? Does that cause discomfort? These are some of the things that you should be prepared to answer when seeking professional advice about the tongue coating.
Good luck.
P.S. You may want to seek the advice of an oral surgeon as a second opinion regarding your tongue, depending upon what your primary dental professional had told to you.
Good luck.
P.S. You may want to seek the advice of an oral surgeon as a second opinion regarding your tongue, depending upon what your primary dental professional had told to you.
Why does a cracked tooth have to be pulled?
If you have a fracture that extends into your tooth, then there is no possible way to repair that tooth. That is the reason why it would need to be extracted. However, it should READ MORE
If you have a fracture that extends into your tooth, then there is no possible way to repair that tooth. That is the reason why it would need to be extracted. However, it should be confirmed that the crack actually extends far enough into the tooth to render it non-restorable. Some cracks can be treated with root canal therapy and saved. Others may need to be restored with a full-coverage crown restoration. The only way to determine if your tooth is hopeless or can be saved is to have it evaluated by your trusted dental professional. And don't forget, you are always welcome to seek out a second opinion if you're uncertain about your first diagnosis for some reason.
Do I always need a crown with a root canal?
The short answer is NO. But each situation needs to be evaluated based upon its own circumstances. Some of the factors that comprise the final decision are how much of the tooth READ MORE
The short answer is NO. But each situation needs to be evaluated based upon its own circumstances. Some of the factors that comprise the final decision are how much of the tooth was destroyed as a result of needing the root canal treatment; how much force does the root canal tooth receive from chewing, which is determined by where in your mouth the tooth is located; but it also depends upon the condition of adjacent teeth, and their ability to function effectively. As a general rule, most molars are best suggested to be covered with a crown following root canal therapy. But every rule has its exceptions. And in any event, you should be informed of the risks versus rewards of placing the crown or not on the root canal treated tooth. Your dentist should be able to supply this information for you. Good luck with making the correct decision in your specific circumstance.
My front tooth just cracked. How can it be fixed?
A lot depends upon how far into your tooth the crack actually extends. If it is an enamel craze, very minimal treatment may be necessary. But if it is the beginning of your tooth READ MORE
A lot depends upon how far into your tooth the crack actually extends. If it is an enamel craze, very minimal treatment may be necessary. But if it is the beginning of your tooth actually breaking apart, then a completely different course of treatment is indicated. So as in most cases, you need to be visually seen and evaluated to determine the appropriate therapy for the crack that you noticed. You can always seek a second opinion if you are leery of the diagnosis received from your first exam. But doing nothing at all will probably lead to more involved treatment. Dental treatments only worsen over time; it is extremely rare for a dental problem to resolve on its own.
What can sensitive teeth mean?
There are numerous possible reasons for you sensitivity. If it refers to multiple teeth, the first thing that comes to mind is bruxism. You may be in need of an oral appliance READ MORE
There are numerous possible reasons for you sensitivity. If it refers to multiple teeth, the first thing that comes to mind is bruxism. You may be in need of an oral appliance to be worn while sleeping. An accurate diagnosis cannot be made from your question without physically being seen and evaluated. I suggest that you see a trusted dental professional at your earliest convenience. Tooth decay is also responsible for temperature sensitivity. But the chances for multiple teeth having severe decay is usually minimal; unless it has been a long time since you last sought dental treatment and evaluation.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
Symptoms for root canal can vary widely. Usually a painful tooth has a source of pain that can be resolved by any number of appropriate therapies. Because the sources of pain are READ MORE
Symptoms for root canal can vary widely. Usually a painful tooth has a source of pain that can be resolved by any number of appropriate therapies. Because the sources of pain are so broad, the only way to determine the source is to seek dental care as soon as possible. Do not forget that even if the pain resolves on its own, this may be a temporary state that will lead to even worse consequences in the future. It may turn into a ticking time bomb waiting to explode, usually at the most inconvenient time possible. You really need to be seen by a trusted dental professional as soon as possible in order to avoid the potential for more pain and discomfort. Good luck.
What are the side effects of teeth whitening?
All bleach formulations that are FDA approved are safe to use. The only real side effects are some temperature sensitivities. These are not experienced by most people, but they READ MORE
All bleach formulations that are FDA approved are safe to use. The only real side effects are some temperature sensitivities. These are not experienced by most people, but they are also not uncommon. They usually resolve after stopping the bleaching process. In our office we prefer to use the at-home bleach procedure exactly for this reason. The patient has full control of how often and how long to use the bleach. There are also desensitizing agents available to help with those who may develop some temperature sensitivity. Otherwise, there are really no other known side effects that are detrimental. You should not hesitate to bleach your teeth under the supervision of a dentist.
Why does my breath smell even after brushing my teeth and using mouthwash?
Most causes of bad breath are a result of either bacterial material lodging in the tongue, or from an acid or substance coming up from the esophagus. Try to determine the source READ MORE
Most causes of bad breath are a result of either bacterial material lodging in the tongue, or from an acid or substance coming up from the esophagus. Try to determine the source of the odor, and then remedies can be offered. Do you possibly have less than a normal salivary flow due to medications? Possibly try a different mouthwash rinse as well. Try to brush your tongue, and rinse with something that can destroy bacteria and their odors.
Why are my father's gums swollen?
The possibilities range from an inflammatory problem of his own gum tissues, through medications that could have that same affect on the gingival tissues. He should present for READ MORE
The possibilities range from an inflammatory problem of his own gum tissues, through medications that could have that same affect on the gingival tissues. He should present for an examination to try to figure out the "puzzle". Too many possibilities exist to actually formulate a list. He could also be experiencing an allergic reaction to a food or drink substance.
Will being on a liquid diet affect my teeth in any way?
There usually would be no direct affect on your teeth, unless you were to be drinking an acidic formulation. The acid could erode the enamel. So try to do some research about READ MORE
There usually would be no direct affect on your teeth, unless you were to be drinking an acidic formulation. The acid could erode the enamel. So try to do some research about what exactly the liquids on your diet contain.
Why do I have a metallic taste in my mouth?
A metallic taste may be the result of something that is being released from your own teeth due to clenching and/or grinding. But it can also be related to a medical issue. You READ MORE
A metallic taste may be the result of something that is being released from your own teeth due to clenching and/or grinding. But it can also be related to a medical issue. You should be seen by either a dental professional or medical doctor to further look into what the source of your metallic taste is coming from.
Are my medications staining my teeth?
Medications alone usually do not stain teeth. But that's not to say that you are having a unique reaction to one or more of the medications that you are taking. You can mention READ MORE
Medications alone usually do not stain teeth. But that's not to say that you are having a unique reaction to one or more of the medications that you are taking. You can mention to the physician that prescribed the medication about your concerns, and/or possibly see a dentist to see exactly what type of stain you are actually experiencing. Need to recheck about the iron tablets.
Why do I have sensitivity in all my lower teeth?
The causes of sensitivity are very broad. The best way to begin to find the answer is to schedule yourself for a complete dental examination to zero in on the possibilities. READ MORE
The causes of sensitivity are very broad. The best way to begin to find the answer is to schedule yourself for a complete dental examination to zero in on the possibilities. Some possibilities include clenching/grinding, erosion, dental infection of the nerves of the teeth, or even an incorrect bite. They are all very different, but they also could lead to the same symptoms of sensitivity as an end result.
Is it bad that I leave food in between my teeth?
Leaving food between the teeth is inviting both dental decay and periodontal disease to attack your dentition. You should try your best to remove any and all food particles from READ MORE
Leaving food between the teeth is inviting both dental decay and periodontal disease to attack your dentition. You should try your best to remove any and all food particles from between your teeth after each meal and/or snack. If your teeth are not contacting each other correctly, and the spaces are allowing food to get packed between them, then you may need some dental treatment to repair that problem.
I have a boil on my gums. What should I do to treat it?
You need to see a dentist as soon as possible because your "boil" may be the result of a dental infection. This will not resolve on its own. There are different sources for the READ MORE
You need to see a dentist as soon as possible because your "boil" may be the result of a dental infection. This will not resolve on its own. There are different sources for the swelling to occur, and your dentist should be able to help you to determine the source.
Do teeth get affected during pregnancy?
Mostly it’s the gums in a pregnant woman that show signs of inflammation. Some women find more bleeding when brushing, flossing, or using a rubber tip stimulator. Some of the reasons READ MORE
Mostly it’s the gums in a pregnant woman that show signs of inflammation. Some women find more bleeding when brushing, flossing, or using a rubber tip stimulator. Some of the reasons are probably hormonal, and you can only try to control the inflammation as best as possible. The gums themselves are usually not detrimentally affected by the pregnancy.
Best of luck to you and your baby.
Best of luck to you and your baby.
Can braces get rusted?
Rusting if metal braces is not common. You may be developing plaque and tartar accumulation on the brackets. Or you may have been treated with a defective set of brackets. Either READ MORE
Rusting if metal braces is not common. You may be developing plaque and tartar accumulation on the brackets. Or you may have been treated with a defective set of brackets. Either way, you should visit your dentist for him/her to check out what you are seeing.
My son is a year old, and isn't teething. Is this abnormal?
It’s a bit delayed as compared to average. But it doesn’t necessarily mean that there are no tooth buds waiting to erupt. Just s but later than expected. However, the possibility READ MORE
It’s a bit delayed as compared to average. But it doesn’t necessarily mean that there are no tooth buds waiting to erupt. Just s but later than expected. However, the possibility exists that no baby and/or permanent teeth exist as a result of an abnormality during pregnancy. A dental radiograph can confirm the presence or absence of teeth for your child. You may want to consider some type of x-ray for peace of mind. Good luck.
Can water cause my teeth to discolor?
My initial feeling is that tap water has no effect upon discoloring teeth. However, anything is possible. You should find out the chemical constitution of your water supply. Then READ MORE
My initial feeling is that tap water has no effect upon discoloring teeth. However, anything is possible. You should find out the chemical constitution of your water supply. Then be sure to analyze whether you had coincidentally begun any new medications or anything new or different from your past routines. We sometimes find out some very surprising answers when we take the time to closely analyze our routines and habits.
Is it okay to swallow the gel applied for a mouth ulcer?
Most probably yes, but try not to make a habit of ingesting anything that is not meant to be ingested. There are usually warning remarks on the label of the product that explains READ MORE
Most probably yes, but try not to make a habit of ingesting anything that is not meant to be ingested. There are usually warning remarks on the label of the product that explains if swallowing it is dangerous. Some are meant for only external use and sores.
