Parklane Family Dentistry

Can You Fix An Overbite With Invisalign?

September 29, 2022

If you are dealing with an overbite, the great news is that you have lots of treatment options thanks to modern dentistry!

One of the most popular ways to fix various types of overbites is actually through Invisalign in Frisco. Clear aligners have revolutionized orthodontic treatments and have offered people a very discreet way to straighten their teeth and fix jaw alignment issues.

If you’ve been looking into Invisalign, you probably read that these aligners aren’t ideal for all types of alignment issues. And while that’s true, these aligners have come a long way over the years and can fix a wider variety of dental issues than ever before!

So Can Invisalign Fix an Overbite?

In short? Yes!

Invisalign can help treat mild and even moderate overbites. Essentially, the treatment involves getting a set of aligners custom-made to fit your teeth. You will have to wear the aligners for around 20-22 hours every day throughout your treatment.

The aligners will then slowly start pulling your teeth into their most optimal position, and by doing this, they will reduce your overbite too.

Even better, Invisalign now has some special attachments that orthodontists can use for more complicated cases. Invisalign can be combined with both with buttons and elastics to help apply more pressure on certain teeth and better control their movement. This has allowed the treatment to become accessible to many more patients.

How Long Does It Take to Fix an Overbite with Invisalign?

The treatment length can be influenced by lots of different factors:

The type of overbite and its severity
Patient age
How well do the teeth respond to treatment
How well patients follow recommendations, etc.

It can take anywhere between 6 months and 2 years to fix an overbite with Invisalign, possibly even more depending on your specific case. Your orthodontist will provide an estimate of a timeline for your case, but you should know it’s not definitive.

How Can You Know If Invisalign Is Right for You?

If you have an overbite, the only way to know for sure if Invisalign is right for you is to see Frisco dentist Dr. Parul Vashisht for a consultation.

Based on a thorough assessment of your teeth and bite, Dr. Vashisht can recommend the best course of action that can heal your condition and get you the results you want.

Severe cases of overbites will need to go through traditional metal braces. Parklane Family Dentistry offers both Invisalign and traditional metal braces to help our patients get the very best results.

Get Started Today

If you’re ready to get your overbite fixed and tap into a personalized treatment plan devised by Dr. Vashisht, you only have one thing left to do:

Book a consultation at Parklane Family Dentistry online and stop by for your first appointment.

Have more questions about our services or Invisalign? Then contact us today for more information!

Do You Have To Brush Veneers?

September 20, 2022

Oral hygiene is one of the most important aspects of enjoying healthy teeth and a beautiful smile.

But there are moments when our teeth need to be taken care of not only by having proper oral hygiene but also by restoring them through dental procedures, like cosmetics, surgical treatment, or orthodontics.

If you are looking for ways to restore the look of your teeth, dental veneers might be a good option for you.

How Dental Veneers Work

Dental veneers are cosmetic dentistry procedures that can help you restore your teeth. They can be used for several dental conditions that include:

Chipped teeth
Broken teeth
Discolored teeth
Small teeth
Gapped teeth

Dental veneers are thin shells that have the same color as natural teeth. They are attached to the exterior part of the tooth, improving its appearance and making your teeth look healthier and stronger.

Some people choose to get veneers if they have chipped or broken teeth or other dental issues. Other people choose to get them in order to have an even smile.

Dental veneers can last up to 15 years and in some cases, even 20 years. Of course, the longevity of the veneers is also influenced by how well you take care of them.

If they are chipped or broken, you need to get them replaced.

Tips to Keep Your Veneers Healthy

Dental veneers are very easy to maintain. In fact, you don’t have to do anything extra to take care of them except for brushing and visiting your dentist regularly. And, to answer the question of this article, yes, you have to brush your veneers, and it’s quite important to do it every day. Your natural teeth are still there under the veneers, and they can still be damaged by bacteria and decay if you don’t brush your teeth.

Here’s what you need to do to take care of your veneers.

Oral Hygiene

Keep your veneers clean. Brush your teeth, floss, and rinse on a daily basis. Make sure you clean your mouth properly as your teeth can still be affected by bacteria, even though you have veneers.

Visit the Dentist

Do not skip your regular dental check-ups. This way, you can prevent major oral health problems and keep your veneers and teeth healthy.

Limit Staining Foods

Veneers are very resistant to stains, but they can get stained in time. Limit foods and beverages that can stain, and clean your mouth afterward, even if it’s just rinsing.

Be Careful How You Use Your Teeth

Do not use your teeth as tools, and do not bite and chew on hard foods. This can damage your veneers and your teeth.

Veneers need to be brushed, just like your teeth. With good care, you will enjoy a long-lasting, beautiful smile.

Interested in Cosmetic Dentistry? We’re Here to Help You

At Parklane Family Dentistry, you can enjoy a wide range of dental services and treatments. From standard checkups and cleanings to cosmetic dental treatments for smile enhancements, we cover many dental needs.

Get in touch with us today, and we can schedule an appointment with Dr. Parul Vashisht.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

July 20, 2022

Interested in veneers in Frisco? Considering the cost of the procedure, as well as the fact that it’s irreversible, then you likely want to make sure your veneers will offer you the smile you want for a long time.

The good news is that they can: with the right care, your veneers can last as long as 15-20 years, maybe even longer.

Here’s how to care for your new veneers and make sure they last!

Veneers Are Strong, But They Are Not Indestructible

Veneers are made from porcelain or composite, which are very strong materials designed to last for a long time. However, this doesn’t mean your veneers are not at risk for:

Breaking
Chipping
Staining
Wear and tear, etc.

Additionally, caring for your veneers also helps protect your natural teeth. Unlike dental crowns, veneers will not cover the entire natural tooth. The thin layer is bonded to the front surface of your natural teeth, which means your teeth will still be exposed to the bacteria and food debris inside of your mouth. As a result, the risk for cavities and gum disease is still very much present even with veneers!

How to Properly Care for Your Veneers

So if you want your veneers to last 15-20 years or longer, you will need to:

Have proper oral hygiene habits – brush your teeth at least two times a day, and floss once daily to make sure you reduce your risks for cavities and gum disease;
Eat a healthy and balanced diet – fresh fruits and veggies aren’t just good for your body. They help you produce more saliva, which has an essential role in cleansing the mouth of food debris and bacteria;
Stop smoking – smoking is linked to many dental health problems and it can reduce the lifespan of your veneers as well;
Avoid biting on hard foods or objects – chewing or biting on these hard items increases your risk of cracking or chipping the veneers and natural teeth;
See the dentist regularly – it’s the best way to truly stay on top of all your oral health needs and make sure you enjoy your new smile for decades!

What Happens If Your Veneers Get Damaged?

If your veneers break, chip, or are otherwise damaged, the good news is that you can simply have them replaced.

If you book a consultation at Parklane Family Dentistry, Dr. Parul Vashisht can inspect your veneers and recommend the best course of action to fix the issue. For instance, for small chips or cracks, dental contouring may be used to repair the veneers without needing a replacement.

Book an Appointment at Parklane Family Dentistry Today!

Frisco dentist Dr. Parul Vashisht can help you get the smile you’ve always wanted with veneers or other cosmetic dentistry procedures that suit you best!

Book an appointment at Parklane Family Dentistry online, or call us at 469-452-2998 for more information.

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.