Parklane Family Dentistry

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!

Keep Your Dentures Clean and Bright with These Tips!

July 30, 2019

Aside from being a cosmetic concern, tooth loss is also an issue that can affect a person’s speaking and eating abilities. If left untreated, it can lead to numerous problems that are not only exclusive to the mouth. Fortunately, the availability of dentures made it possible for people who have lost their teeth to keep on smiling and living just like before. So, to make this last, it is imperative for patients to perform the best practices that will keep the appliance in excellent shape. At Parklane Family Dentistry, we do not just stop after providing the restorative device. We also want our patients to use the tool to its full potential and lifespan. So to make this possible, here are some tips we prepared!

Do not use toothpaste

Although the said oral care product is essential to use for the teeth, know that it can actually harm dentures. Toothpaste can comprise the appliance in the long run due to abrasiveness. As an alternative, patients can use hand soap or dishwashing liquid. But before doing so, it is best to ask the opinion of the dentist.

Keep moist

There are types of dentures which need to be kept moist at all times. Patients should make sure not to leave the appliance out in the open when not worn. The best measure to take is to soak the device in water or a denture solution to keep them in good shape.

Always rinse

When removed, patients are advised to rinse the dentures (after soaking or cleaning) before putting them back in at all times.

Give the mouth a break

Patients are highly advised to give their mouth time to recover after a long day of wearing dentures by taking it off. The best time to do so is when sleeping, and it is the ideal chance to give the oral device a good soak.

Be gentle when cleaning

Although dentures nowadays are undeniably more durable than in the past, know that they can still be damaged due to negligence. To keep them from breaking it is advised for patients to clean the device in a sink filled with water or by placing a towel on the countertop to serve as a cushion when dropped accidentally.

See the dentist

Although dentures are artificial, it is still highly ideal for patients to book regular appointments as advised. During visits, they can monitor the state not only of the oral structures but the appliance as well so that necessary actions can be taken.

Make sure to follow the steps listed above and the ones specifically given by the dentist to enjoy the appliance that provided a second chance to one’s smile longer!

Aiming to restore your teeth as natural as it was before? Contact us to know more about Dentures in Frisco, TX or to schedule your appointment with Parklane Family Dentistry!

New to Invisalign? Here Are Tips to Get the Most out of the Experience

June 15, 2019

With the arrival of clear aligners, people who did not initially like to undergo orthodontic treatments can now aim for straighter and healthier teeth. Instead of having a mouthful of metal brackets and wires, clear aligners straighten the teeth using thermoplastic materials. The good thing about this method is, it no longer requires the appliance to be bonded directly on the teeth. The clear aligner comes in trays that are molded to fit over the upper and lower dental arches. Aside from being a metal-free appliance, clear aligners also boast of its transparency; making it aesthetically pleasing.

At Parklane Family Dentistry, our patients can take advantage of Invisalign, one of the most popular clear aligner brands in straightening their teeth. When availing of the said service, patients can also expect a more comfortable approach since it moves the teeth gently into their proper positions. To make the overall Invisalign experience pleasant and bearable, we will be sharing some tips below.

Always wear the clear aligners

Dentists highly recommend patients to wear the orthodontic appliance for more than 22 hours every day. Doing so ensures that the teeth are guided to their places at a faster pace. Wearing it less as advised will make the treatment last longer.

If it is the first time wearing the appliance, patients are advised to wear it as much as possible for the first 48 hours. It is because the teeth move the most during this time, and the guidance of the Invisalign tray is much needed.

Change at the right time and order

Instead of seeing the dentist every month for adjustments, Invisalign patients are advised to switch out the aligners themselves in a week or so. The trays are provided by sets and sequence which should be followed to make sure that the treatment goes smoothly, without unnecessary discomfort.

Practice speaking with the aligner on

It is normal for patients to feel uncomfortable and lisp after wearing the aligners for the first time. These sensations would just disappear after the mouth adjusts to the new oral appliance. To make the adjustment period fast and easy, try to speak out loud while wearing the Invisalign tray.

Care for the aligners

Proper oral hygiene practices are no longer just for the teeth; they should be observed to keep the oral appliance in top shape. When cleaning, make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush, gentle soap, and lukewarm water for effective and harmless maintenance.

Aside from these tips listed above, take note of the recommendations given by the dentist. Know that they also aim to make sure that the Invisalign can deliver favorable results for everyone to enjoy straighter and healthier smiles.

Give your smile a boost! Book an appointment with Parklane Family Dentistry and check out our Invisalign Aligner service in Frisco, TX! Call or visit us at 1606 FM 423, Suite 200 Frisco, TX 75033.