EXPERT
Michael A. Conrad
Dentist
Dr. Michael Conrad is a Dentist practicing in Wescosville, Pennsylvania. Dr. Conrad 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.
Michael A. Conrad
- Wescosville, Pennsylvania
- Temple University Dental School
- Accepting new patients
Acid Attack and the Reality of Tooth Decay
Teeth have one great weakness: acid. It eats away tooth structure. Where does acid come from? Our diets. Acidic foods and drinks directly affect and dissolve tooth enamel....
How soon can you eat after tooth gap bonding?
Generally you can eat immediately. The only precaution would be to be very careful if you had local anesthesia. You don't want to bite your lip or tongue while numb. But the bonding READ MORE
Generally you can eat immediately. The only precaution would be to be very careful if you had local anesthesia. You don't want to bite your lip or tongue while numb. But the bonding is set in a few seconds and is ready as you walk out of the office.
Dr. Conrad
Dr. Conrad
Can I get my teeth straightened while pregnant?
Yes, you can get your teeth straightened while pregnant. But because the pregnancy hormones can cause an over-reaction to plaque leading to pregnancy gingivitis, traditional braces READ MORE
Yes, you can get your teeth straightened while pregnant. But because the pregnancy hormones can cause an over-reaction to plaque leading to pregnancy gingivitis, traditional braces can make it more difficult to clean your teeth. A buildup of plaque in non-pregnant orthodontic
patients can lead to sore, swollen gums, but a pregnant person could have an excessive reaction. Clear braces or Invisalign would be less likely to make you susceptible to pregnancy gingivitis. Another thing to consider is the possibility of morning sickness. Impressions or even
digital scans may be more difficult to tolerate in pregnancy, and nausea may be triggered by any sort of oral appliance. So, yes, it is definitely possible to have orthodontic treatment while pregnant, but it may be problematic for some individuals.
patients can lead to sore, swollen gums, but a pregnant person could have an excessive reaction. Clear braces or Invisalign would be less likely to make you susceptible to pregnancy gingivitis. Another thing to consider is the possibility of morning sickness. Impressions or even
digital scans may be more difficult to tolerate in pregnancy, and nausea may be triggered by any sort of oral appliance. So, yes, it is definitely possible to have orthodontic treatment while pregnant, but it may be problematic for some individuals.
How long does it take to remove a tooth cyst?
It all depends on the size and location. Could be as short as 20 minutes or as long as a few hours. If it's being done in an office, chances are it will be toward a shorter time. READ MORE
It all depends on the size and location. Could be as short as 20 minutes or as long as a few hours. If it's being done in an office, chances are it will be toward a shorter time.
How long do molar implants last?
Under ideal conditions (including your overall health and, specifically, your oral health), properly placed molar implants can last upwards of 40*+ years. They have a successful READ MORE
Under ideal conditions (including your overall health and, specifically, your oral health), properly placed molar implants can last upwards of 40*+ years. They have a successful retention rate of over 90%. It is important to remember that the implants need to be taken care of as well
as or better than real teeth. If teeth are lost due to negligence, replacing them with implants requires elevation of home care and diligently following your dentist's directions.
as or better than real teeth. If teeth are lost due to negligence, replacing them with implants requires elevation of home care and diligently following your dentist's directions.
Does placing crowns on implants hurt?
Rarely. But sometimes the gums have to get used to a tighter feel because the implant crown is generally slightly wider than the healing cap. Out of hundreds of cases, only one READ MORE
Rarely. But sometimes the gums have to get used to a tighter feel because the implant crown is generally slightly wider than the healing cap. Out of hundreds of cases, only one or two patients have needed local anesthesia. Any discomfort is mild and usually dissipates in a few minutes. Nothing to worry about.
Are metal dentures better than plastic?
As usual, it depends. Are you talking about full dentures or partial dentures or both? A full denture would be very durable in metal, but very heavy. The teeth would have to READ MORE
As usual, it depends. Are you talking about full dentures or partial
dentures or both?
A full denture would be very durable in metal, but very heavy. The teeth
would have to be held in mechanically, not bonded to the pink acrylic of
a standard denture. So those denture teeth might have a tendency to
come loose. Some patients are grinders and clenchers and need a
metal-reinforced palate or framework to strengthen the denture, but the
bulk of it is still acrylic.
Partial dentures are much stronger in metal, and they can often be made
smaller yet still retain good strength. But metal clasps will show and
some patients won't allow that. Acrylic partials look better, but are
not as strong. Their acrylic clasps are not adjustable like the metal
dentures or both?
A full denture would be very durable in metal, but very heavy. The teeth
would have to be held in mechanically, not bonded to the pink acrylic of
a standard denture. So those denture teeth might have a tendency to
come loose. Some patients are grinders and clenchers and need a
metal-reinforced palate or framework to strengthen the denture, but the
bulk of it is still acrylic.
Partial dentures are much stronger in metal, and they can often be made
smaller yet still retain good strength. But metal clasps will show and
some patients won't allow that. Acrylic partials look better, but are
not as strong. Their acrylic clasps are not adjustable like the metal
Dry socket?
Probably not. Touching the area with your tongue should not cause a dry socket. 30% of the lower extractions can result in a dry socket no matter what you do. But the things that READ MORE
Probably not. Touching the area with your tongue should not cause a dry socket. 30% of the lower extractions can result in a dry socket no matter what you do. But the things that cause it most are Alcohol, Smoking, Drinking Through a Straw, and Sodas. Avoid those, rinse with
very warm salt water and you should be fine. Good luck!
very warm salt water and you should be fine. Good luck!
What helps blood clot after tooth extraction?
There should be a clot filling the socket where the tooth was removed. Avoid rinsing the day of the extraction. The next day and few days thereafter rinse 2-5 times per day with READ MORE
There should be a clot filling the socket where the tooth was removed. Avoid rinsing the day of the extraction. The next day and few days thereafter rinse 2-5 times per day with warm salt water. Avoid alcohol, tobacco products, drinking through a straw and anything carbonated. All those things can cause premature loss of the clot which can be painful- a dry socket.
If you have other clots in your mouth that are large and not part of the socket, you could have had excessive bleeding and that extra blood clotted, sometimes in a large, rubbery piece that actually looks like liver. And it's called a liver clot. If that's what you have, call the dentist or surgeon to have it checked out. Those are usually more of a nuisance than anything. Good luck.
Dr. Conrad
If you have other clots in your mouth that are large and not part of the socket, you could have had excessive bleeding and that extra blood clotted, sometimes in a large, rubbery piece that actually looks like liver. And it's called a liver clot. If that's what you have, call the dentist or surgeon to have it checked out. Those are usually more of a nuisance than anything. Good luck.
Dr. Conrad
Retainer fit?
Generally it's an easy fix and should fit fine. If I had a photo of it I could tell you more. If you don't wear it for a few days you should still be able to insert it, but it READ MORE
Generally it's an easy fix and should fit fine. If I had a photo of it I could tell you more. If you don't wear it for a few days you should still be able to insert it, but it may be really tight for a short while until your teeth get used to it. They do drift slightly without it. Good luck!
Dr. Conrad
Dr. Conrad
How strong are Emax veneers?
Very strong. I suppose you could have a veneer made out of Zirconia, but it's doubtful. Emax is the way to go. And, if your veneer just covers the facial surface of your tooth READ MORE
Very strong. I suppose you could have a veneer made out of Zirconia, but it's doubtful. Emax is the way to go. And, if your veneer just covers the facial surface of your tooth and doesn't extend the length at all, it is extremely durable. Regardless of what material is used, it is best to have a night guard made so as not to stress or damage a veneer while sleeping.
Dr. Conrad
Dr. Conrad
Why is my gum swollen after tooth extraction?
Some slight swelling is normal after an extraction simply due to the trauma of tooth removal. Anything involving the bone can cause swelling, just like a broken bone anywhere else READ MORE
Some slight swelling is normal after an extraction simply due to the trauma of tooth removal. Anything involving the bone can cause swelling, just like a broken bone anywhere else in your body. But if the swelling is severe, you may have an infection that needs attention by your dentist. On the day of an extraction, we always recommend icing the area throughout the day. The following days should eliminate the ice and instead a warm moist compress should be applied periodically, and the mouth should be rinsed with very warm salt water. If ice is continued past the first day, swelling will continue or worsen. But of course, see your dentist if it gets worse or if you have questions. You may need an antibiotic or additional treatment.
Dr. Conrad
Dr. Conrad
What can cause a cutting feeling having swollen lymph nodes?
Please see a dentist right away. It could be related to Covid or the tooth- or both. Changes in breathing are a bad sign, and if it's Covid you want to get treatment right away. READ MORE
Please see a dentist right away. It could be related to Covid or the tooth- or both. Changes in breathing are a bad sign, and if it's Covid you want to get treatment right away. Your dentist may want a Covid test first. If it is the tooth, and it is causing breathing problems, that is equally serious. You may need to consult a physician as well.
Don't delay. We want you to be healthy and safe.
Don't delay. We want you to be healthy and safe.
What kind of surgery do they do for TMJ?
In extremely rare cases involving injury or severe arthritis, joint replacement surgery is required for the TMJ. I have personally only seen 1 or 2 of those in over 40 years as READ MORE
In extremely rare cases involving injury or severe arthritis, joint replacement surgery is required for the TMJ. I have personally only seen 1 or 2 of those in over 40 years as a dentist. But just like bad hips and knees, it is sometimes the only thing that can be done for a patient. The jaw is always moving, not just with chewing and speaking, but simply with breathing as well. So that constant, slight movement can be very painful in an affected TMJ.
Sometimes what is necessary is to rebuild the fixed part of the upper jaw where the lower moving portion slides against. Sometimes the lower part has to be reconstructed. Often there is a much smaller incision than you would expect.
But the vast majority of TMJ problems can be corrected with physical therapy and the use of special mouthpieces that can reposition the joint to function better without pain. I would certainly try those options first. Surgery is your last option.
Dr. Conrad
Sometimes what is necessary is to rebuild the fixed part of the upper jaw where the lower moving portion slides against. Sometimes the lower part has to be reconstructed. Often there is a much smaller incision than you would expect.
But the vast majority of TMJ problems can be corrected with physical therapy and the use of special mouthpieces that can reposition the joint to function better without pain. I would certainly try those options first. Surgery is your last option.
Dr. Conrad
Toothache but no tooth there?
You didn't specify the location of "the last three teeth". Were they on the upper or lower jaw? Location makes a big difference in remote diagnosis. If the pain is on the upper, READ MORE
You didn't specify the location of "the last three teeth". Were they on the upper or lower jaw? Location makes a big difference in remote diagnosis. If the pain is on the upper, you may have sinus problems. If on the lower, if might be a deep bone infection. Sometimes both possibilities can be seen on a 3D panoramic x-ray. Was that the type you had? You could also have nerve problems on that side or even TMJ trouble that can cause weird pain in the jaw. Sorry, but I need more information!
Dr. Conrad
Dr. Conrad
Dry mouth?
Get to see your personal physician right away. Your symptoms are usually an urgent sign of dangerously high blood sugar.
Dr. Conrad
Dr. Conrad
How do you get the swelling to go down after a dental implant?
On the day of the surgery, you should have used an ice pack. Starting the next day and for 3-5 days, rinse with very warm salt water (8 oz, water with 1/2 tsp salt) 3 to 5 times READ MORE
On the day of the surgery, you should have used an ice pack. Starting the next day and for 3-5 days, rinse with very warm salt water (8 oz, water with 1/2 tsp salt) 3 to 5 times per day. Apply warm, moist heat to the outside of the cheek where the work was done - 10 minutes on, 20 minutes off throughout the day. Cold helps prevent swelling on the first day by limiting the blood supply and preventing the buildup of fluid. After the first day, cold may make it feel better, but it then limits the body's ability to take away the excess fluid. So, starting the second day, heat encourages blood flow to the area to wash away the swelling. If the swelling has not begun to diminish after a few days of proper care, contact your dentist/surgeon. You may have developed an infection requiring antibiotics.
Dr. Conrad
Dr. Conrad
Can a crown on an implant come loose?
Yes, that is entirely possible. Some implant crowns are cemented onto metal posts or abutments. Often that type of attachment uses a lighter cement for the crown in case that the READ MORE
Yes, that is entirely possible. Some implant crowns are cemented onto metal posts or abutments. Often that type of attachment uses a lighter cement for the crown in case that the abundant loosens and the crown needs to be removed.If the crown is screwed in, it could loosen if the screw begins to unwind. Either way, you need to see a dentist to get it tightened or re-cemented. It is usually more of a bother than a big deal. On the other hand, if the crown appears to be loosening, but it is related to the implant failing, that is a big deal. Get to a dentist and have it figured out.
Dr. Conrad
Dr. Conrad
Can flossing cause gums to swell?
Regular, properly done flossing should not cause gums to swell. But if you are a very occasional flosser or floss too hard, the gums can be irritated and swell. Many people who READ MORE
Regular, properly done flossing should not cause gums to swell. But if you are a very occasional flosser or floss too hard, the gums can be irritated and swell. Many people who only floss occasionally say that they do it so rarely because every time they try it, their gums swell and bleed. Regular, proper flossing over a 2-week period will eliminate that problem.
How do you clean under a bridge?
Use a floss threader or SuperFloss to feed floss under the replacement tooth and clean from front to back. It's also a good idea to use a WaterPik to clean under it. When in doubt, READ MORE
Use a floss threader or SuperFloss to feed floss under the replacement tooth and clean from front to back. It's also a good idea to use a WaterPik to clean under it. When in doubt, check with your dentist or hygienist at your next recall appointment.
Dr. Michael Conrad
Dr. Michael Conrad
Is it normal to have pain 6 days after tooth extraction?
It depends on what tooth was extracted and what condition it was in when you had the surgery. Usually the pain from the extraction goes away in just a few days. If it is a lower READ MORE
It depends on what tooth was extracted and what condition it was in when you had the surgery. Usually the pain from the extraction goes away in just a few days. If it is a lower tooth, especially a molar, you could have developed a dry socket which will need additional care. If it an upper tooth, dry sockets are rare and there may be something else going on like a residual infection. In any case, call your dentist. And good luck.
Dr. Michael Conrad
Dr. Michael Conrad
