Dr. Christopher Roska DDS

When I smile, several of my dark silver fillings show through my teeth. Can you make my smile look better?
Depending on the size of your existing fillings, we can either replace them with tooth-colored restorative material or place porcelain crowns. We recommend crowns in situations where there is not enough tooth structure available to support a filling. Either approach will eliminate the dark appearance of your teeth and greatly enhance the esthetics of your smile.

My teeth are permanently discolored because of antibiotic usage. What can be done to reduce or eliminate this effect?
In some cases, antibiotic-stained (usually tetracycline) teeth can be whitened. This process can take several months, depending upon the severity of the discoloration. In some instances, conventional teeth whitening will not provide results that are acceptable. Porcelain laminates or porcelain crowns are recommended in these situations. We will be happy to evaluate your teeth and give you advice on which approach is appropriate for you.

I have gaps between my front teeth. Can these spaces be closed without orthodontics?
We measure the spaces between teeth before we attempt to close them with porcelain laminates or crowns. Study models and a diagnostic wax-up (mock-up) are often utilized to determine what the esthetic result will look like before we perform a procedure. This approach shows us what treatment modality will provide the best results.

My jaws and teeth hurt when I wake up in the morning. Is it possible I am grinding my teeth?
Yes, it is highly probable. Teeth grinding (bruxism) usually happens during sleep. In addition to the symptoms you describe, sensitive teeth, clicking sounds when you open your mouth, earaches, and loosening of teeth may also occur. Ultimately, existing fillings may fracture and your teeth may become worn down. Possible treatments may include the fabrication of a custom-fitted acrylic mouthguard (niteguard) to protect your teeth and any restorations you have. This appliance is worn when you are most likely to grind your teeth, usually while you are sleeping. In other cases, or in combination with the fabrication of a niteguard, a bite adjustment may be necessary. This approach is generally utilized when there is a discrepancy between jaw position and tooth position.

My fillings keep breaking. Why don't they last as long as the original fillings that were placed?
Your fillings are probably too big. Fillings that continue to fracture are, in most cases, not supported by enough tooth structure. Each time fillings are replaced more tooth structure is removed to provide a clean surface for the new filling to adhere to. Eventually, the filling and/or the tooth becomes compromised and fractures. This is usually an indication that crowns are needed to adequately protect your teeth.

My teeth seem to be loose and I have developed bad breath. Should I be concerned?
Definitely. When bad breath is noticeable and teeth are becoming mobile it is often a sign of periodontal (gum) disease. Bacteria and calculus (tartar) that are not removed on a regular basis will eventually lead to pocket formation and bone loss. If this is treated in its early stages it can be corrected. We are very skilled in non-surgical techniques to arrest the progression of early to moderate periodontal disease.

Why isn't my dental insurance as good as it used to be?
Unfortunately, dental insurance coverage has not kept pace with inflation. In fact, the yearly maximums we see today are pretty much the same as they were in 1970. Dental insurance really does not exist anymore. Instead, most plans employers purchase provide two cleanings and one major procedure per year. In the vast majority of cases, this is not adequate to cover the needs that most people have today. We diagnose and make treatment recommendations based on a patient's needs. We do not believe in compromising an individual's care because of insurance limitations. However, we also understand that dental treatment can be a substantial investment. For this reason, we provide several different payment options, including payment plans, to make treatment more affordable.

What payment options do you offer?
We accept cash, check, MasterCard, Visa and American Express. We also offer a no-interest, and an extended, payment plan for those situations that require more flexibility. Our goal is to provide every patient the opportunity to have the finest dental care available, regardless of whether the treatment is based on a clinical need, or is elective in nature.

It really bothers me to have to wait in Doctor's offices. Do you see your patients on time?
Our patients are usually seated promptly. We pride ourselves with our ability to see our patients on time. We do not double or triple book because we feel it is our responsibility to see you in a timely manner. If, for some reason beyond our control, we are running late, we will contact you and let you know when we will be available.

Every dentist seems to be a "Cosmetic Dentist." What skills do you possess that separate you from other dentists?
My experience in cosmetic dentistry covers many years. As a student, I worked as a laboratory technician designing and fabricating restorations for a dentist that was a faculty member at the dental school I was attending. Upon graduation, I continued my interest in this phase of dentistry. I have personally designed every cosmetic reconstruction case I have ever done. The majority of today's dentists delegate this responsibility to laboratories because they either do not want to invest the time and effort required to do so or they do not possess the skill sets to perform this service. The utilization of photographs, study models and doing a diagnostic wax-up (mock-up) provides me with the information I need to design the best possible solution to an esthetic problem. This commitment to excellence and having a comprehensive understanding of what approach to take with your restorative treatment is what separates our practice from average practices.

Addison • 15303 Dallas Parkway, Suite 120 • Addison, TX 75001 • 972-239-6591 • map