What Is Gum Recession & Why Does It Happen?

Gum recession is a serious dental issue that should not be ignored. As the name indicates, gum recession is a condition where your gums begin receding, or pulling away from your teeth. This change in your gumline exposes the sensitive roots of your teeth to pressure and bacteria. Besides visible changes to their gumline, many patients dealing with gum recession will report heightened tooth sensitivity to both temperature and pressure.

Causes of Gum Recession

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is characterized by inflammation and infection of the gum tissue and is one of the most common causes of gum recession. Other symptoms of periodontal disease include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and loose teeth.

Poor oral hygiene can also lead to gum recession since plaque and tartar are left to build up along the gum line. Be sure to brush twice a day for two minutes each time, floss every day, and get routine dental cleanings every six months to help prevent gum recession.

Aggressive brushing can cause gum recession. Don’t brush with excessive force or use a hard-bristled toothbrush, which can wear down your gum tissue and erode your tooth enamel.

Genetics, hormones, and tobacco use can also contribute to gum recession and make a patient more vulnerable to developing dental disease.

Periodontal Care in Frisco, TX

If you’ve noticed any abnormal changes in your gums or signs of gum recession, contact us today to schedule an appointment at Serenity Dental Studio! Swift intervention can allow us to improve your gum health, repair your gumline, and prevent further damage. We will measure your gum pockets and take X-rays to determine the best course of action. If a deep cleaning is necessary, our qualified team will talk you through the process and make sure you’re as comfortable as possible.

August 29, 2023

What to Do If Your Dental Implants Are Failing

Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement solution. The surgical procedure often always results in a long-lasting and natural-looking smile. However, in rare cases a patient may experience complications with their dental implant that lead to its failure. If you suspect your dental implants are failing, contact Serenity Dental Studio for an evaluation!

Warning Signs of Dental Implant Failure

Though uncommon, dental implant failure can occur. Being aware of signs that your dental implants are failing can prompt you to schedule an exam to address the underlying problem. Warning signs that may indicate dental implant failure include:

Mobility or loose-feeling around the implant
Pain when chewing
Swelling or inflammation around the implant
Visible breakage of the crown or implant

Causes of Dental Implant Failure

Dental implants are supposed to fuse with the jaw through a process called osseointegration. Osseointegration is an essential part of ensuring your implants stay secure. A few things that may interrupt this process and cause dental implant failure include:

Poor oral hygiene
Shallow or weak jawbone
Underlying medical condition or vitamin deficiency
Tobacco use
Gum disease
Teeth grinding and clenching
Trauma to the face or jaw

How to Handle Dental Implant Failure

The best thing to do if your dental implants are failing is to contact a dentist near you with dental implant experience. Based on an evaluation, the dentist will recommend the most appropriate course of action. This could involve modifying your oral hygiene routine, prescribing antibiotics to manage infection, or repairing your crown or abutment connecting the implant to your crown. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed. A new one can be placed once the area has healed.

Dental Implants in Frisco, TX

Regular dental checkups and maintaining good oral health habits can help prevent many implant-related issues. At Serenity Dental Studio, our services include implant restoration. Please contact us should you have an issue with your dental implants!

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July 31, 2023

Can You Still Have Your Teeth Whitened If They’re Sensitive?

A bright, white smile is often considered a sign of good oral health and can boost confidence. However, if you have sensitive teeth, you may be wondering if it’s still possible to have your teeth whitened. We’re happy to share that even if you have sensitive teeth, you can achieve a whiter smile with teeth whitening!

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity usually occurs when the protective layer of enamel on your teeth is worn down, exposing the underlying dentin. This lack of protection can lead to discomfort or pain when exposed to certain triggers like hot or cold temperatures, sweet or acidic foods, and even teeth whitening products.

Consultation with a Dentist

Before embarking on any teeth whitening journey, it’s crucial to consult with a dentist like Dr. Kengskool. At your dental visit, a thorough exam of your teeth can be completed to identify the cause of your tooth sensitivity. If there are underlying dental issues like cavities or excessive enamel wear, they can be addressed before teeth whitening.

Teeth Whitening Treatment

While there are many types of teeth whitening options available, professional teeth whitening performed by a dentist is generally the safest option for individuals with sensitive teeth. By visiting a dental office for teeth whitening, you can enjoy quick, stunning results with minimal risk for tooth sensitivity.

Alternative Whitening Methods

If traditional teeth whitening methods are not suitable for your sensitive teeth, there are alternative options to explore. For example, whitening toothpaste, although not as effective as professional treatments, can help remove surface stains. Another option is dental veneers, which can permanently improve the appearance of your teeth without exposing them to bleaching agents.

Achieve a Brighter Smile in Frisco, TX

By consulting with our dentist in Frisco, TX, we can help you address any underlying dental issues and explore the best whitening treatment for your smile. Contact Serenity Dental Studio today to learn how you can achieve a brighter smile!

June 30, 2023

Does Charcoal Toothpaste Help Make Your Teeth Whiter?

Charcoal toothpaste has gained popularity in recent years as a seemingly natural way to whiten teeth. Charcoal is highly absorbent. Charcoal toothpaste contains activated charcoal, a form of carbon that has been treated with oxygen to make it more porous. The idea behind using activated charcoal in toothpaste is that it can bind to toxins and stains on the teeth, removing them and leaving the teeth looking whiter.

Drawbacks of Charcoal Toothpaste

It is important to note that charcoal toothpaste is only able to remove surface stains. That means if you have intrinsic yellowing and severe tooth stains, brushing with charcoal toothpaste won’t make much of a difference.

Charcoal toothpaste is abrasive. While mild abrasives may be beneficial in removing tartar and mild stains from teeth, they could lead to enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity if used excessively.

Many charcoal toothpaste options do not contain fluoride. Fluoride is a beneficial mineral added to traditional toothpaste that helps prevent tooth decay by fortifying the crystalline mineral structure of your tooth enamel.

Cosmetic Dentistry in Frisco, TX

While trying out a new trend like charcoal toothpaste may not be detrimental to your oral health when used in moderation, it may not provide you the cosmetic and oral health results you wish for. Instead, professional dental services like cosmetic dentistry treatments and routine cleanings can safely and effectively help you achieve a bright and healthy smile.

At Serenity Dental Studio, we offer comprehensive dental services, including preventive cleanings, sealants, fluoride treatments, professional teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, bridges, and more! Contact us today to schedule a consultation to learn how we can help you improve your at-home oral hygiene routine and the health and appearance of your smile.

Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

May 27, 2023

Are Certain Dental Issues Genetic?

If you take excellent care of your teeth—brushing and flossing properly twice a day, visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and exams, and avoiding foods that could harm your teeth—you might feel frustrated when your dentist tells you that you have a dental issue. While practicing oral hygiene is a vital component of keeping your mouth healthy, genetics sometimes come into play.

Just as your genes affect traits like your eye color and height, they can also affect your teeth! Here are a few situations when your genetics could negatively impact your oral health.

Weak Enamel

Some people have naturally weak tooth enamel, making them more susceptible to issues like cavities, tooth discoloration, or sensitivity. Enamel is the protective outermost layer of your teeth. When enamel is weak, your teeth are more vulnerable to damage and decay. If your parents have weak tooth enamel, there is a chance that you’ve inherited the same condition, so be extra vigilant about your oral hygiene and diet to keep your smile healthy.

Tooth Alignment

Genetics can also determine physical characteristics that can affect the alignment of your teeth. You can inherit things like crooked teeth, an underbite, and small jaw. Such issues can make it difficult to keep your teeth clean and cause excessive wear and tear, which may lead to more serious dental issues down the line.

Gum Disease

You might be more likely to develop gum disease if you’ve inherited a weaker immune system. When the body produces a less robust response to dangerous bacteria in the mouth, it can lead to gingivitis or more advanced periodontal disease. Additionally, some people can be genetically more susceptible to inflammation, which is a key factor in gum disease development.

Personalized Dental Care in Frisco, TX

Even if you suspect that genetics may be negatively affecting your teeth and gums, it’s still possible to maintain good oral health. Be sure to schedule routine checkups and cleanings at Serenity Dental Studio. At your appointments, Dr. Kengskool will discuss any issues you’ve noticed recently and provide personalized care based on your unique needs. Contact us today!

April 25, 2023

What Is the Ideal Age to Begin Invisalign Treatment?

Many people associate wearing braces with being a teenager. However, there’s no rule saying only middle schoolers or high schoolers can get orthodontic treatment! This includes Invisalign clear aligner therapy too. Both young adults and older adults can benefit from this discreet orthodontic treatment.

The Ease of Orthodontic Movement

The density and developmental stage of a younger patient’s jawbone makes it easier to move teeth into straighter positions. While it’s definitely not impossible to straighten your teeth if you aren’t a teenager or young adult, it may take longer as an adult.

Sticking to the Treatment Plan

Braces are temporarily bonded to the teeth during the entirety of treatment. In contrast, Invisalign aligners have to be taken out for eating, drinking anything other than water, and for brushing and flossing your teeth. It can be tempting to leave the trays out for a longer time period than these activities take. But they must be worn for 20-22 hours a day to keep your treatment moving along. Patients, whether they are a teenager, young adult, or older adult, must be responsible enough to be compliant with their treatment plan. They cannot regularly forget to put their trays back in, or simply choose not to out of convenience. Not wearing your aligners can prolong and even derail your progress.

Convenience for Adults

Adults may want straighter teeth but don’t want the noticeable appearance of metal brackets and wires, especially if they want to maintain a professional appearance for work. While traditional braces are not inherently unprofessional-looking, they can make adults feel more self-conscious. Invisalign is the ideal orthodontic treatment for adults of any age and in any stage of life because of how inconspicuous and convenient it is.

Invisalign in Frisco, TX

If you’re wondering whether Invisalign is right for you, we invite you to come into Serenity Dental Studio for an orthodontic consultation. We can give you our professional recommendation about whether or not you’re a good candidate for Invisalign. Please contact us today!

March 28, 2023

Common Misconceptions About Veneers

Dental veneers are a permanent way to dramatically enhance the appearance of your smile. This versatile treatment is the secret to many celebrities’ megawatt smiles. However, there are several common misconceptions about veneers. For example, some patients mistakenly think that veneers are:

1. Big or Cartoonish

If you go to a qualified dentist, like Serenity Dental Studio, you will not get ill-fitting dental veneers that look unnatural or bulky. The custom porcelain veneers that we create for our patients look beautifully realistic.

2. Only for Front Teeth

Dental veneers can be applied to all teeth, even teeth in the back! A veneer on a single tooth or veneers on a few teeth can make your smile more uniform. Depending on your needs, having veneers on many teeth may truly transform your smile.

3. Expensive

At Serenity Dental Studio, we accept a variety of payment options to make veneers affordable!

4. Hard to Maintain

Once you get dental veneers, you should treat them as you would your normal teeth! Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, floss every day, consume a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, visit us for routine checkups and cleanings, and avoid tobacco products. Veneers that are well taken care of can last upwards of 20 years!

5. Time-Consuming & Painful to Receive

The dental veneer process is actually a fairly fast and painless procedure. You’ll need a consultation to make sure you are ready to commit to this permanent cosmetic treatment. Your dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a small amount of enamel and take impressions to design the perfect set of veneers for your smile. Once your veneers are ready, your dentist will bond them to your teeth, which requires minimal anesthetic.

Dental Veneers in Frisco, TX

Consider dental veneers if you are interested in enjoying a beautiful, even, and bright smile. Our team would be happy to answer any additional questions you may have about this cosmetic treatment. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation!

February 25, 2023

Our Guide to Cavity Prevention

While your tooth enamel is strong, it is still susceptible to erosion by acids produced by bad bacteria. If weakened areas of enamel are not remineralized, they become permanently damaged in the form of holes, called cavities. If left untreated, cavities can result in serious issues, like infection and tooth loss. They can be repaired with fillings, but it’s better to simply prevent their formation in the first place.

Brush & Floss Every Day

Plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria, develops when you eat anything with sugar, including candy, pasta, bread, fruit, juice, soda, and so on. Bacteria produce acids, which wear down your tooth’s enamel and irritate your gums. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and floss every day to prevent plaque from building up on your teeth and under your gumline.

Get Professional Cleanings Twice a Year

Even if you take excellent care of your teeth at home, you should still visit the dentist for regular cleanings and exams. We’ll clean off tartar (which is hardened plaque), remove stains, and identify areas at a higher risk for decay. We can also apply a concentrated varnish of fluoride to help fortify your teeth.

Avoid Snacking Throughout the Day

Frequent snacking is linked to a higher risk of cavities. When your mouth never gets a break from food, it becomes a very acidic place. Eat regular meals and try to eat any snacks or treats all at once instead of grazing on and off during the day.

Drink More Water

Water washes away food debris and sticky plaque. It’s especially important to stay hydrated if you deal with dry mouth, which makes it easier for cavities to form.

Use Fluoride

Fluoride is a natural cavity-fighter added to many tap water systems and toothpaste brands. You’re probably getting enough of this fortifying mineral if you use toothpaste with fluoride and your area has fluoride in the water.

Preventive Dental Care at Serenity Dental Studio in Frisco, TX

Cavities are usually preventable! Following these tips will dramatically reduce your risk of developing a cavity. But if you do get a cavity, we offer restorative treatments like fillings and root canal therapy. If you have questions about cavities or want to schedule an appointment with our team, please contact us today!

January 25, 2023

How to Maximize Your Dental Benefits In 2023

A new year has arrived, which means your insurance benefits have reset from last year! How do you make the most of your insurance this year? Here are some ideas on how to maximize your dental benefits in 2023:

Get a Professional Cleaning & Exam Every 6 Months

If you have dental insurance, your provider most likely covers two routine cleanings and checkups. Don’t miss out on this benefit! Professional cleanings and dental exams help prevent and treat serious oral issues, like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Schedule cleanings and exams for every six months, unless your insurance plan covers additional cleanings.

Know Your Deductible & Annual Maximum

If you need a lot of dental work done, take a look at your deductible and your annual maximum. The deductible is the amount you’re responsible for before your insurance provider takes over. It’s separate from any co-pay. If you will hit your deductible this year, try to squeeze in as many necessary dental services as you can before the deductible resets in 2024. But you should also keep an eye on the annual maximum, which is the most your plan will pay; you want to stay below the annual maximum.

Time Your Treatments Appropriately

Maximizing your dental benefits can require some strategy. As an example, if you’re starting a new plan this year, you might have a waiting period for certain treatments. Timing is also important for large, more complex services. If completing the treatment exceeds the annual maximum, see if you can divide the treatment into two halves: one at the end of this year and one at the beginning of next year when the maximum resets.

However, don’t wait if you would greatly benefit from getting a treatment done sooner rather than later! Many offices offer flexible payment options, including financing, that can make your treatment more affordable.

Choose Serenity Dental Studio as Your Affordable Dentist in Frisco, TX

Serenity Dental accepts plans from most insurance providers, including Aetna, Guardian, UHC, Cigna, Dental Dental, and more. We also have our own in-house membership plan and can set up a payment plan that breaks your dental expenses into more manageable chunks. Please contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment with our friendly team!

December 30, 2022

Dental Innovations Throughout History

At Serenity Dental Studio, we utilize modern dental techniques, tools, and technology to deliver efficient care to our valued patients! We are grateful for the healthcare professionals and researchers before us who made huge advances in the field of dentistry. Here are some ways dentistry has evolved through time.

Filling Materials

In 1833, the Crawcour brothers introduced amalgam filling material, or silver fillings, to repair tooth decay in the United States. Although durable and affordable, it has been discovered that amalgam fillings may pose a health risk to certain populations due to mercury exposure. Nowadays, tooth-colored composite fillings are preferred for looks and ultimate safety.

Anesthesia

In 1846, Dr. William Morton was the first person to publicly and successfully perform oral surgery on a patient administered diethyl ether anesthesia at Massachusetts General Hospital. While ether is now obsolete, its early use prompted other healthcare professionals to experiment with anesthesia for surgical procedures.

In 1905, a German chemist named Alfred Einhorn created a safer anesthetic alternative to cocaine called procaine, patented as Novocain. It was used to numb areas of the mouth. Its invention and use later led to the production of Lidocaine, a numbing agent with fewer side effects.

X-Rays

In 1895, mechanical engineer and physicist Wilhelm Röntgen accidentally discovered X-rays, for which he won the Nobel Prize in Physics. His accidental discovery has aided in diagnosing and treating dental problems not noticeable to the naked eye. Radiation exposure, which can increase the risk of cancer, is very low with modern dental X-rays. Additionally, X-rays are only taken when necessary and patients wear lead coverings to minimize exposure.

Modern Dental Care at Serenity Dental Studio

Innovations by these professionals and others have made it possible for us to provide comprehensive, modern dental care! Our team offers a range of services and payment options. Contact us today to schedule a visit. We look forward to caring for your smile!

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