Parklane Family Dentistry

Can You Whiten Veneers?

June 10, 2022

Veneers are thin dental prosthetics designed to improve a person’s smile, whether it’s because of staining or discoloration, gaps between teeth, irregularly sized-teeth, or other cosmetic issues.

It’s a permanent procedure, which means you can enjoy your new smile for decades. Some people can even wear their veneers for as long as 20 years or more. However, they do need proper maintenance in order to preserve them.

So if your veneers become discolored or stained, can you whiten them?

Veneers Cannot Be Whitened

Most veneers are made out of porcelain, though there are also ceramic and composite models available. In any case, these materials will not respond to the whitening agent like your natural teeth would, so even if you use the best agents, the veneers will preserve their color.

However, it’s really not a good idea to give it a shot. If you do try to whiten your veneers, while their color won’t change, your natural teeth likely will. This means your smile could now have two different shades, leading to an uneven look.

Can You Improve Your Veneers’ Appearance?

Porcelain and ceramic veneers are non-porous, so they won’t absorb stains like natural teeth or even composite ones.

If composite veneers become stained, you may be able to remove them during a professional dental cleaning, where the dentist uses special tools and solutions to thoroughly clean the mouth.

However, if the stains persist or if your Frisco veneers are discolored, the best way to resolve this issue is to simply get a new pair.

How to Properly Maintain Your Veneers

Veneers are very durable, but it’s safe to say they are not indestructible. As a result, you need to take proper care of them to make sure you can enjoy your new smile for decades.

Here are some tips on how to do just that:

Practice good oral hygiene and brush and floss your teeth every single day
Try to avoid highly staining foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, tomato juices, citruses, etc.
Gently cleanse the mouth with water after you eat such staining foods, to reduce the risk of staining. If you want to brush your teeth instead, wait at least 30 minutes after you eat;
Stop smoking, as it can lead to discoloration
Avoiding biting down on hard objects or food
Stay on top of your oral health needs by seeing the dentist routinely

How Parklane Family Dentistry Can Help

Is it time to upgrade to new veneers, or are you thinking about getting your first pair? Dr. Parul Vashisht is here to help you make the right decisions for the health and look of your smile.

Book a consultation at Parklane Family Dentistry online and stop by the office to get started!

If you have more questions about veneers or how we can help, call us at (469) 452-2998.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

May 20, 2022

Do you have a chipped or broken tooth? Do you want to cover a tooth that is discolored or misshapen? Dental crowns are the option for you.

Dental crowns can help you:

Restore a broken or cracked tooth
Protect a weak tooth from breaking
Hold a dental bridge
Protect a tooth after having a root canal
Cover a dental implant
Make a cosmetic enhancement

Dental crowns are caps that are shaped in the form of a natural tooth, with the purpose of restoring its shape and size. They can also strengthen it and enhance its appearance.

Types of Dental Crowns

Frisco dental crowns can be made out of different materials that vary in price and durability. Talk with your dentist about these options to see which one fits your needs best.

Stainless steel crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns
Composite resin crowns
All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns
Lithium disilicate crowns

The last option is the most common one as it has a more natural look to it and can perfectly substitute a natural tooth.

How Long Can a Dental Crown Last?

Even though dental crowns have an average lifetime, various factors as well as how well you care for them can influence their lifespan.

A dental crown can last somewhere between 6 to 14 years, depending on several factors.

The following factors can influence the life of a dental crown:

Type of crowns: The quality of the material the dental crown is made of and how well is made can result in a shorter or longer lifespan.
Dentist’s experience: The skills of your dentist and how apt they are in placing the crown is also a factor that can influence its lifespan.
Tooth condition: How healthy the tooth is, and how much of the natural tooth is left also determines how long the crown will live.
Dental care: If you use your teeth as tools, don’t brush and floss daily, and avoid going to the dentist for check-ups, then you can expect for your crown to last less than average.
Bruxism: Grinding and clenching the teeth can make your crowns break. If you have this condition, then talk about it with your dentist and ask for a night guard that will protect your teeth.

Exceptional Dental Care from Parklane Family Dentistry

If you have any questions related to dental crowns, (or anything else!), you can always contact us at Parklane Family Dentistry.

We offer a wide range of dental services and treatments. Whether you need just a simple checkup or more advanced treatments, such as restorative dentistry or cosmetic care, you can find them at our practice.

Is a Root Canal a Dental Emergency?

April 7, 2022

Root canals are one of the most common dental procedures that people are afraid of.

The reason is simple: root canals are necessary to treat infected teeth. But, by the time you get to the point where you need a root canal, you can most likely expect high levels of pain and discomfort. At this stage, it’s likely to not be able to manage your symptoms with out-home remedies and over-the-counter medication. For this reason, root canals are considered emergency dentistry treatments.

Why You Shouldn’t Postpone Treating an Infected Tooth

Teeth infections occur because of an untreated cavity. As time goes on, the bacteria makes its way inside the tooth, creating a bigger and bigger hole. Eventually, the decayed tissue can even make its way all the way down the tooth pulp until it reaches the nerve and roots of the tooth.

This is when the tooth becomes infected, and will present with various symptoms such as:

High levels of pain (constant or throbbing?
Abscess formation just above or below the tooth
Swelling
Looseness
In some cases, even a fever

Tooth infections need to be treated right away. The more you wait, the higher the risk of permanent tooth loss, or even an impact on your overall health if the infection spreads to sepsis.

How Does a Root Canal Work?

A root canal procedure generally involves cleaning the inside of the tooth to remove all the infected tissue. Once this is done, the tooth is left with a hole, and the dentist adds dental filling to restore the full function and look of your tooth.

If the infection is severe, the dentist may need to remove a lot of the tooth’s pulp to fully treat it. In these cases, patients will often need a dental crown to go on top of the natural tooth in order to restore its strength.

Is a Root Canal Done in Just One Procedure?

In some cases, yes, but it generally depends on your specific condition. For instance, badly infected teeth may need to be treated with antibiotics first, before the dentist can continue the root canal procedure.

If you go in for an emergency visit, the dentist will begin the procedure, apply the antibiotic, and then schedule you for subsequent visits to complete it. This also applies if you need a dental crown, as the dentist needs to take an impression of your mouth and send it to the lab, which can take a week or more.

Dealing with a Tooth Infection? Parklane Family Dentistry Can Help

If you think you have a tooth infection and are experiencing pain, swelling, or even a fever, don’t wait. Call Parklane Family Dentistry now at (469) 452-2998 for emergency dental health services.

For regular appointments, book a consultation with Dr. Parul Vashisht.

Are Veneers Permanent?

March 3, 2022

Cosmetic dentistry can have a huge impact on someone’s health esteem. Treatments like veneers, for example, will not only improve the appearance of your teeth but ensure and protect your oral health too.

If you are considering dental veneers, you may be wondering if this process is reversible and if you can remove them if you want to explore other treatment options.

Here’s what you need to know.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are shell-like covers that are attached to your teeth to enhance their appearance. They are used for cosmetic dentistry purposes, such as when you have a broken or chipped tooth, discolored or smaller tooth.

Dental veneers are custom-made to match your natural tooth and give you a healthy, beautiful smile.

Are Veneers Reversible?

The short answer is no, they are not reversible. Veneers are a long-term solution for aesthetic dental problems and are not reversible. That’s because the dentist will have to remove a significant percentage of your enamel to give the teeth the shape needed for placing the veneers. This tooth alteration, even if minimal, is not reversible. If one of them breaks or wears out, your dentist will replace it.

But, don’t worry. Even if they are not reversible, they have a long lifespan, between 10 to 20 years, depending on your oral hygiene habits. So, you can enjoy them for years to come.

Are Veneers Permanent?

While dental veneers have a rather long lifespan, they are not permanent. They are irreversible because of the process involved in placing them, but veneers can break or deteriorate and may need to be replaced.

Veneers are strongly and tightly bonded to the natural tooth to make sure they are kept in good condition and strong. They have the same function as natural teeth as well as the same aspect.

What to Consider Before Getting Veneers

While there are numerous benefits of having veneers, it is important to talk to your dentist about the implications they have.

They improve the appearance of misaligned teeth, broken, chipped, discolored, or uneven teeth;
Dental veneers are made to match your natural teeth color;
They do not require a special routine to maintain them except the regular daily oral health care;
They look just like natural teeth;
The procedure to place dental veneers is easy, fast, and efficient;
It is not an invasive procedure compared to other options;
This is not a reversible procedure;
You can experience temporal sensitivity in your tooth;
While natural teeth change color in time, veneers do not;
They can crack if you bite hard things with them or chew your nails;
Natural teeth can decay under the dental veneers and a root canal might be needed.

If you are interested in getting more information about dental veneers, and actually considering them as a solution for your dental problems, Parklane Family Dentistry is here to assist you.

You can book an appointment at our Family Dentistry practice by visiting our website or by calling at (469) 452-2998.

Can Receding Gums Be Fixed?

February 18, 2022

Receding gums refer to cases in which the gums start pulling back, slowly exposing more and more of your tooth’s root. This can lead to a variety of dental health problems, from increased tooth sensitivity to even permanent damage to your teeth if you do not receive the right treatment.

However, if you do receive treatment to stop the gums from pulling back, can you really fix the problem?

Well, in terms of whether the gums can grow back, the answer is unfortunately no. Gum recession is permanent. But, there are ways to stop this issue from getting worse.

Signs Your Gums Are Receding

To know if you maybe have receding gums, look for the following signs:

Heightened sensitivity, especially to extreme temperatures.
A notch where the gums meet the tooth.
Teeth appear longer.
Noticing mild gum bleeding after you brush your teeth and floss, etc.

You should know that it can be difficult to spot gum recession at home. The changes occur slowly, and by the time most symptoms become noticeable the condition is often extremely advanced. As a result, it’s extremely important to see the dentist at least two times a year for a check-up, to spot any gum issues as soon as possible.

Why Do Gums Pull Back?

Gum recession is usually a sign of gum disease or its more severe form, periodontitis. It is essentially an infection of your gums that destroys the healthy tissue and makes the gums pull back from the tooth, gradually exposing the root.

Some risk factors for gum disease can include:

Poor Oral Hygiene – Flossing and brushing help remove the daily film of plaque that forms on the teeth, which is made from unwanted bacteria. With poor oral hygiene, plaque can turn into tartar, and continue to attract unwanted bacteria that affect the healthy tissues of your mouth.
Lifestyle Factors – Smoking or improper nutrition are common risk factors for gum disease and therefore gum recession.
Genetics – Some individuals are more likely to suffer from gum disease than others because of certain genetic markers.

How Are Receding Gums Treated?

If you think your gums are receding, it’s important to book a consultation with a dentist as soon as possible. Based on that first appointment, the dentist can determine the severity of your condition and establish a treatment plan to restore your dental health.

Some treatments often used for gum recession can include:

Scaling and root planing
Gum grafts
Gum surgery
Dental cleaning and at-home medication to treat the infection, etc.

Think Your Gums Might Be Receding? Parklane Family Dentistry Can Help!

Parklane Family Dentistry is here to help you stay on top of your dental health needs, with professional services delivered with a caring touch.

To get started, schedule a consultation with Dr. Parul Vashisht online, or call our office directly at (469) 452-2998 for more information.

Essential Tips to Prevent Gum Disease

December 15, 2019

According to a survey reported in the Journal of the American Dental Association, a majority of adults suffer from gingivitis. This condition is the first sign of periodontal disease and is the main reason why adults lose their teeth. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. If this is left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis in which pus will start to accumulate in the deep pockets of your gums. Periodontitis will cause your teeth to become sensitive to pressure, loosen, and even fall out. Additionally, research suggests that gum disease can put you at serious risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory infections, and premature birth.

However, you shouldn’t despair! Parklane Family Dentistry offers Treatment for Gum Disease, and we have also compiled a few tips to help you avoid it. Read on to know what these tips are!

Have the recommended dose of Vitamin C intake

Vitamin C does not only have positive effects on the body but the health of your gums as well. Although it will not cure gingivitis, a study has shown that Vitamin C can help alleviate bleeding gums. Additionally, The National Institute of Health recommends a dose of 100 to 200 milligrams of Vitamin C per day.

Make healthy lifestyle changes

Examine your current lifestyle. If you are under too much stress or work around toxic chemicals, these factors can negatively affect your gums. Check your lifestyle and see what changes you can make to improve your gum health.

Keep your toothbrush germ-free

If possible, always store your toothbrush in an upright position. You shouldn’t also routinely cover or store your toothbrush in closed containers. Keeping your toothbrush in moist environments will promote the growth of most germs. When you store more than one brush, make sure that they are separated to stop germs from transmitting from one brush to another.

Drink tea

Did you know that black and green teas contain polyphenols? These are antioxidant compounds that help prevent plaque from sticking to your gums and reduce your chances of developing gum disease.

For problems with your gum health, avail of Treatment for Gum Disease in Frisco, TX. Schedule an appointment with us at Park Lane Family Dentistry for a quality service. We are located at 1606 FM 423, Suite 200, Frisco, TX 75033.

How Can Your Child Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?

November 30, 2019

Taking your child to the dentist can be stressful, not only for your child but also for you. This is especially true if your child has a short attention span. Thankfully, services in sedation dentistry are available and can be of great help.

Sedation dentistry addresses the biological changes that occur as your child grows, creating an experience that will help them receive dental care without fearing the dentist. Aside from this, sedation dentistry offers a lot of benefits for your child. Read on to know what these are!

Shorter recovery time and easier management of discomfort

If your child is sedated, dental professionals can do their best and most careful work. The lack of stress hormones and fear reduces inflammation and speeds up recovery. Your child will be able to sleep through the worst of the post-op discomfort.

Fewer appointments benefit both you and your child

As a parent, it is a challenge for you to schedule multiple appointments for your child. You have to consider work, school, childcare, and other activities as well. A lot of parents intend to finish a treatment plan for their child but are unable to make it through every appointment. With sedation, extensive treatments are condensed into one appointment that is easy to plan for.

Build lifelong habits for your child

If your child has dental problems early in life, they will often develop a fear of the dentist and end up disliking anything related to oral health. This can result in poor oral hygiene and an avoidance of the dentist later in their life. Sedation can help with this by preventing upsetting memories from forming.

Comfortable treatments for severe dental problems

Only a few people find it easy to be comfortable sitting in the dental chair for so long—children are like this too. That is why sedation is beneficial. Children who need a lot of dental work done can be comfortable in the dental chair and hold still much longer with sedation.

Ensure that your child undergoes comfortable dental procedures through Sedation Dentistry in Frisco, TX. Book an appointment with us at Parklane Family Dentistry to avail of outstanding dental services. You can visit our dental office at 1606 FM 423, Suite 200, Frisco, TX 75033.

What Causes a Chipped Tooth?

October 30, 2019

Did you know that having cracked or chipped teeth are more common than a lot of people think? Cracking or chipping your teeth can range from a small cosmetic issue to a significant emergency. This will depend on the severity of the injury. Without proper treatment, these conditions will continue to affect your smile as well as your dental health. For that reason, you must avail of chipped tooth repair, a service we offer at Parklane Family Dentistry.

If you want to avoid chipped tooth to keep your smile healthy and attractive, here are the causes that you should watch out for!

Having a bad bite

If you have a bad bite, there is a high chance that you’ll chip or crack a tooth because of how your teeth are aligned. This fact is indeed unfortunate, as some of your teeth may be put under much greater pressure or force than others, causing more chips and cracks. Remember to keep up with your dental visits because your dentist should be able to spot the signs and recommend a treatment for you.

Playing sports without a mouthguard

With zestful movements, comes risk for your teeth. If you are running around with a bunch of people, there is a high chance of collisions and tripping that can lead to an accident that will chip your teeth. May it be playing professional hockey or a quick pickup game of basketball, the risk is present. In fact, even sports that are labeled as “non-contact” may come with a surprising amount of contact. So whenever you are participating in sports, have some protection for your teeth.

Using your teeth as tools

The design of your teeth is for specific jobs such as eating, talking, and smiling. Your teeth are not designed to act as scissors, bottle openers, or pliers. Thus, using your teeth as tools can seriously damage your teeth as well as your jaw.

Having tongue or cheek piercings

Having a piercing in your tongue or cheek puts your teeth at a higher risk of having a cracked or chipped tooth. When a foreign metal object is introduced into your mouth, there’s a definite risk of damaging the enamel when it moves around. Aside from that, oral piercings can cause your gums to recede. It is best to think twice before you get these piercings and take good care of them if you decide to follow through.

If a chip on your teeth affects your smile and overall confidence, avail of Chipped Tooth Repair in Frisco, TX. Schedule an appointment with us at Parklane Family Dentistry and watch your smile transform. Find us at 1606 FM 423, Suite 200, Frisco, TX 75033.

Dental Bonding: An Ideal Solution to Fix an Imperfect Smiles

September 30, 2019

A lot of people dream of having a perfect set of teeth. Well, who wouldn’t, right? Today, there are numerous treatment options available that people can choose from. However, some of these dental treatments may require an extensive dental procedure. But, one of the dental treatments that stands out the most is dental bonding.

Dental bonding is a dental procedure wherein a tooth-colored resin material is applied to the affected tooth to improve the person’s smile. Dental bonding is an ideal treatment option in improving the appearance of the teeth because it masks several teeth imperfections.

When is dental bonding used?

It repairs chipped or cracked teeth
It closes the gaps or spaces between the teeth
It repairs decayed teeth
It helps protect and cover a portion of the tooth’s root that has been exposed when gums recede
It can be used as a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings
It makes the teeth appear longer
It improves the appearance of discolored or stained teeth
It alters the shape of the teeth

Is there any preparation I need to take note of?

The procedure for applying dental bonding does not necessarily require any preparation. Anesthesia is not often needed unless it is being used to fill decayed teeth.

The process involved in dental bonding:

The dentist will select the color of the composite resin that closely matches the color of the patient’s natural teeth. Once the dentist has chosen the color, the surface of the tooth will be roughened, and a conditioning liquid is applied. This will help the bonding material adhere to the tooth. The bonding material is then applied, molded, and smoothed to the desired shape. The material is hardened by using an ultraviolet light or laser. After the bonding material is hardened, the dentist will further trim, shape, and polish the material until it matches the sheen of the rest of the tooth surface.

How long does this bonding material last?

The lifespan of the bonding material will depend on how much bonding was done and how good they are taken care of. With proper oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly, the bonding material can last for a few years or a decade before needing a replacement.

Do bonded teeth require any special care?

Bonded teeth do not require any special care. However, seeing the dentist regularly and practicing good oral hygiene is vital in avoiding the damage on the bonded teeth as well as the natural teeth.

Since the bonding material can chip, it is essential to refrain habits such as biting fingernails, chewing hard foods or objects, and using the bonded teeth as an opener. They should contact the dentist when they noticed any sharp edges on the bonded teeth or if the tooth feels unusual whenever they bite down.

What are the advantages of dental bonding?

Dental bonding is among the easiest and non-extensive dental procedures. Usually, dental bonding can be done in one dental visit unless there are several teeth involved. Unlike dental veneers and dental crowns, dental bonding only needs a minimal amount of tooth enamel to be removed. Anesthesia is not required during the procedure unless dental bonding is used to fill a cavity.

Teeth Bonding can completely transform a patient’s smile and self-confidence. Don’t wait any longer! Schedule your appointment at Parklane Family Dentistry for Teeth Bonding in Frisco, TX. We welcome patients to schedule a consultation to see which treatments are right for them. Visit us at 1606 FM 423, Suite 200 Frisco, TX 75033.

Detect Oral Cancer Early with Oral Cancer Screening

August 30, 2019

Everyone already has an idea of how serious and dangerous cancer is. It is a serious condition that needs to be monitored and must be detected as early as possible. The most common types that people know are breast cancer, leukemia, lung cancer, colon cancer, skin cancer, and more. However, remember that it is also possible for cancer to develop in the oral cavity.

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth or throat which belongs to a larger group of cancers referred to as head and neck cancers. It also develops mostly in the squamous cells found in the lips, mouth, and tongue. Oral cancers are often discovered after the disease has spread to the lymph nodes of the neck. We at Parklane Family Dentistry encourage our patients to book oral cancer screening without fail for the early detection of the devastating condition and to give a higher chance of survival.

What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening

Visual exam

The major parts of an oral cancer screening involve the face, neck, lips, inside of the nose, and oral cavity. Any removable dental appliances should be taken out to expose every area before proceeding with the examination.

The dentist will thoroughly look for any asymmetries, bumps, swelling, patches of color, ulceration, or other abnormalities to search for signs of oral cancer. To properly perform the examination, the dentist will use a light and mirror to see the inside of the nose and the mouth. A tongue depressor is used to hold down the tongue and look at the back of the mouth. There are other dental tools used that can help the dentists evaluate the gums, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, tonsils, throat, and underneath the tongue. Usually, the patients will be asked to say “Ahh” to expose areas in the throat that are difficult to see.

Physical exam

During or after the visual exam, the dentist will touch the head, cheeks, around the jaw, under the chin, and mouth to feel and examine any unusual nodules or masses on these areas. The patients will then be asked if they feel any discomfort when the portions mentioned were proded. The symptoms of oral cancer can be painful; however, painless swelling can still be a sign of problems elsewhere.

Everyone deserves outstanding dental care services; that is why we provide Oral Cancer Screening in Frisco, TX. Book your appointment with us at Parklane Family Dentistry and let us help you achieve beautiful and healthy teeth!