Does Severe Tooth Pain Mean You Need a Root Canal?

Experiencing severe tooth pain can be alarming, but does it mean you need a root canal? The short answer is not always. But, read more to learn about how to determine the best course of action when tooth pain arises.

When is a Root Canal Necessary?

A root canal becomes necessary when the inner pulp of the tooth becomes inflamed or infected. This can cause severe pain and potentially lead to abscess formation if left untreated. This procedure allows your dentist to remove the damaged pulp, clean the inside of the tooth, and seal it to prevent further infection. Prompt treatment preserves the tooth and prevents infection spread.

Signs You Need a Root Canal

Persistent Pain: If you’re experiencing intense and persistent tooth pain, especially when biting down or applying pressure, it could be a sign of infection or damage deep within the tooth.

Sensitivity to Temperature: Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold may suggest nerve damage or infection needing treatment.

Swelling and Tenderness: Swelling and tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth can be a sign of infection spreading from the tooth root. This inflammation may cause discomfort and pressure in the surrounding area.

Discoloration: Discoloration or darkening of the tooth may indicate that the nerve tissue inside the tooth has been damaged or infected, necessitating root canal therapy to remove the infected tissue and restore the tooth’s health.

Comprehensive Dental Care in Frisco, TX

While severe tooth pain can sometimes indicate the need for a root canal, we will consider other potential causes before jumping to conclusions. The best way to know for certain is to consult with your dentist to accurately diagnose the underlying cause of the pain and determine the appropriate treatment plan. Schedule an appointment at Serenity Dental Studio so we can get to the bottom of your tooth pain and restore your healthy, beautiful smile!

Modern dental technology, like laser dentistry, has revolutionized the way dental procedures are performed. Laser dentistry utilizes concentrated beams of light energy to perform various dental procedures. This has a wide range of applications, like treatment for gum disease and cavities, soft tissue recontouring, and teeth whitening. Lasers in dentistry are beneficial for patients because they are more precise, efficient, and comfortable for patients.

Precision & Accuracy

One of the most notable benefits of laser dentistry is its precision. Dentists can target specific areas with detailed accuracy, which minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This precision is particularly valuable for gum contouring and cavity removal.

Minimized Discomfort

Laser dentistry often reduces the need for anesthesia since the procedures are typically less painful than traditional methods. Patients experience minimal discomfort, making laser dentistry an excellent option for those with dental anxiety.

Faster Healing & Recovery

Because laser dentistry is minimally invasive, it results in quicker healing and reduced recovery times compared to traditional dental procedures. This means less post-operative pain and a faster return to normal activities for patients.

Modern & Comprehensive Dental Care in Frisco, TX

At Serenity Dental Studio, our office proudly uses modern dental technology to provide a more enjoyable dental experience for patients. Patients can expect even more efficient, precise, and comfortable dental treatments as dental technology continues to advance.

Dr. Kengskool earned a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Human Nutrition from the University of Florida, a Masters of Science in Biomedical Sciences from Rutgers, and her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Howard University College of Dentistry in Washington, DC. She then completed a General Practice Residency at Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center in Glen Ridge, NJ. Outside the office, she enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending time with her family, Shiba Inu, and friends.

Please contact us today to learn more about our office and comprehensive dental services or to schedule an appointment!

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!

Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

Cavities are small holes of decayed tooth structure that can form in the outer layers of a tooth. This damaged tooth structure opens the door to infection and pain. Dental fillings are designed to repair the cavity and protect the tooth from infection.

Dental Filling Procedure

At Serenity Dental Studio, we use composite fillings that are tooth-colored. They are made from non-toxic materials like resin and porcelain so our patients can safely enjoy a healthy smile after a cavity.

First, we identify that you have advanced decay in the form of a cavity that will likely not remineralize on its own. We will desensitize the area so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Then, we will remove the damaged tooth tissue and layer the filling material into the hole. This biocompatible tooth-colored material plugs the area to protect the sensitive inner tooth from infection and reinforces the tooth for chewing.

How to Know I Need a Filling

Although some cavities can cause visible discoloration of a tooth, most cavities can’t be seen with the naked eye at home. That’s why it’s beneficial to visit your dentist twice a year so they can carefully examine your smile and identify cavities before infection has a chance to develop inside your tooth. Cavities caught early can usually be treated with a simple filling instead of root canal therapy, which is more invasive.

Sometimes, however, you might experience some symptoms which can signal you have a cavity, such as: increased tooth sensitivity; a persistent toothache; pain when you bite down; or pain when you drink something hot or cold.

Gentle Dental Fillings in Frisco, TX

Serenity Dental Studio offers comprehensive oral healthcare, including safe, tooth-colored dental fillings, at our comfortable dental office in Frisco, TX. Whether you need a preventive cleaning and checkup or a more complex cosmetic or restorative service, please contact us to schedule an appointment! We look forward to hearing from you.

Filling image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

Dental implant images from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement that restore your smile’s appearance and function. While the process is more complicated than other restorations, implants are permanent and protect against bone loss!

Dental Implants in Frisco, TX

Our team works with local oral surgeons and periodontists who are responsible for the implant surgery. Once we’ve confirmed your eligibility, you can have a titanium post placed in your jawbone. Over 3-6 months, the area heals and the implant fuses to your bone. It serves as a replacement tooth root.

Once the implant is fused with your jawbone, we use an impression cap to create a mold for your permanent implant crown. When the crown is finished, we can attach it to complete your tooth replacement!

Thanks to modern technology and techniques, implants are a highly successful tooth replacement solution with good oral health habits. To protect your implants: brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time; floss every day; consume a balanced diet; avoid tobacco products; do not open packaging with your teeth; and visit us for regular cleanings and exams.

Can a Dental Implant Be Damaged?

Any part of a dental implant can become damaged. If too much pressure is put on the post before it’s fully bonded to your jaw, it can break. If this happens, the post will need to be replaced. Gum disease and infection can also cause an implant to fail due to a lack of support. However, it’s more common for the accompanying crown to wear down or break from wear and wear.

If you’re experiencing trouble with your dental implant or have any concerns, contact Serenity Dental Studio right away. We can diagnose the problem and create a treatment plan to restore your smile. Please contact us today!

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Do you experience lingering tooth pain after you drink or eat something cold? Do you feel pain when there is pressure on your tooth? These are just a few signs that could mean you may need root canal treatment.

However, root canals are not as scary as you think! This restorative treatment can remedy your pain while preserving your natural tooth.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure that is needed when the pulp, the soft tissue inside a tooth, becomes damaged or infected as a result of decay or injury to the tooth. The pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned out. After, the tooth is filled with a special dental material and sealed. Sometimes a crown is needed if the tooth requires additional fortification.

This procedure is not as scary as you might think! In fact, this restorative treatment can remedy your pain while preserving your natural tooth so you don’t need to get an extraction.

Root Canal Procedure

Root canal therapy is a nearly painless procedure; the most you should feel is a bit of pressure. Local anesthetic numbs the area around the affected tooth. Dental sedation can also help you feel calm and relaxed.

For a few days after, you may experience soreness and discomfort as you heal. Your dental team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions based on your situation to help you have avoid any complications.

Restorative Dental Care in Frisco, TX

At Serenity Dental Studio, we emphasize patient education and do our best to help our patients feel informed about their oral health. During your appointment, we will walk you through our findings and why we recommend a certain treatment. We offer comprehensive dentistry, including root canal therapy, and accept patients of all ages. We also offer an in-house membership club that covers your preventive care with a monthly subscription and unlocks discounts on our other services. Contact us to learn more!

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