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!

November 28, 2022

How Dental Fillings Repair Tooth Decay

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

October 25, 2022

Can You Reverse Gum Disease?

Gum disease is inflammation and infection in the gums, the soft tissue in the mouth that surrounds the teeth. It most commonly occurs due to a buildup of plaque and tartar. Plaque is a sticky film of harmful bacteria and food debris, and tartar is hardened plaque. These accumulate with a lack of proper oral hygiene care, which causes irritation of the gums.

Irritated gums can be tender, swollen, and prone to bleeding, and can form pockets as they pull back from the teeth. These pockets can trap additional bacteria and food debris, resulting in infection. This infection can spread to your jawbone and cause bone loss and eventual tooth loss.

Signs of Gum Disease

Some of the most common signs of gum disease are:

Bleeding gums
Chronic bad breath
Darkened gums
Gum recession
Tooth sensitivity and pain
Tender, puffy gums
Teeth loosening

Treatment Varies Based on the Severity of Gum Disease

Gingivitis is early-stage gum disease. It is characterized by mild inflammation. This can often be reversed with improved oral hygiene, a healthier diet, and a professional cleaning at the dentist.

Periodontitis, when the gums have become infected, is more severe gum disease that can cause permanent tissue loss without treatment. Treatment can include a deep cleaning that involves scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and/or laser gum therapy to remove diseased tissue and control the infection. Periodontitis cannot be treated at home and may require multiple treatments at the dentist to combat the issue.

Schedule Your Biannual Dental Cleaning & Exam!

If you struggle with consistent brushing and flossing, gum disease can creep up on you. Gum health is just as crucial as your tooth health because your gums help anchor your teeth in place. We recommend getting biannual dental cleanings and checkups so your dental team can identify signs of gum disease early. The sooner you catch gum disease, the easier it will be to treat and potentially reverse altogether!

At Serenity Dental Studio, we provide comprehensive dental care, including periodontal treatment, to help patients enjoy excellent oral health. Please contact our office to schedule your next checkup!

September 28, 2022

How to Prevent Stress From Wearing Down Your Teeth

Have you noticed that your teeth look worn down? Do you have constant headaches in the morning or pain in your jaw? You might be suffering from bruxism, or chronic teeth grinding. Here’s how you can save your teeth during stressful times.

What Is Teeth Grinding?

Teeth grinding is when someone activates their jaw muscles when they aren’t chewing to clench their teeth together and powerfully rub them back and forth against each other. This usually occurs when asleep. The typical signs of teeth grinding are worn down, chipped, cracked, and broken teeth; a sore and tender jaw; tension headaches; and TMD/TMJ pain. Untreated teeth grinding can negatively affect the longevity of your teeth, increase your chances of developing tooth decay, and impair your ability to painlessly eat, talk, and smile.

What Causes Teeth Grinding?

One of the primary causes of teeth grinding is stress. There are many reasons why we stress out: work, family, finances, etc. Teeth grinding is one of the ways your body might process stress if you aren’t doing so in other ways, such as regular exercise, meditation, deep breathing, or therapy.

How to Stop Stress From Affecting Your Teeth

If you suffer from bruxism, a custom nightguard can help prevent teeth grinding from further damaging your teeth as you identify and address its cause. At Serenity Dental Studio, we can create a nightguard just for your smile, ensuring a comfortable fit and optimal protection.

Next, you need to find ways to combat your stress to stop grinding your teeth altogether. Identifying the source of your stress and devising a plan for stress management will greatly benefit your smile and overall health, thereby improving your quality of life!

Affordable Custom Nightguards in Frisco, TX

Don’t let stress ruin your smile. Our team at Serenity Dental Studio would be happy to meet with you and discuss if a custom nightguard is the right option for your smile. We also offer various restorative treatments to improve your smile’s function and cosmetic treatments to enhance its appearance, depending on your needs and goals. Plus, our flexible financing options make our treatments more affordable and accessible. Please contact us today to schedule an appointment!

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