Category Archives: Useful Information

Dental restorations restore the function, integrity, and morphology of missing tooth structure, which can be caused by caries or external trauma, such as chipping or cracking a tooth. Fabrication of a crown (a type of dental restoration) usually requires two dental visits. The first visit involves an examination of the tooth to determine how it should be restored and preparation of the tooth for the restoration; this visit may include a core build-up (sometimes requiring a post), fabrication of a temporary crown, and making an impression to be sent to the laboratory. The second visit usually involves delivery of the final restoration, which has been fabricated in the laboratory.

What is a crown?

 A crown is a restoration that covers (or “caps”) a tooth to restore it to its normal shape and size, which can strengthen and improve the appearance of the tooth. Crowns are necessary when a tooth has been damaged significantly and cannot be adequately restored with a filling. A crown can protect a weak tooth from fracturing; it also can prevent a cracked tooth from further damage. Crowns can cover discolored or misshapen teeth for more aesthetically pleasing smiles.

What is a post and core build-up?

Dr. Ngo may use a filling material to restore a more ideal shape for supporting a crown (core build-up) when a tooth is severely decayed or fractured and lacks sufficient tooth structure. In some cases, Dr. Ngo will first perform a root canal, a procedure in which pulp is cleared out of the tooth and the canal is sealed with a special material. After the root canal, Dr. Ngo  may place a post in the open canal and secure it with dental filling to] “build up” the structure of the tooth. Once the material has hardened, the tooth can be prepared for a crown.

Will a crown look natural?

 It can, depending on the type of crown you elect to have made. A crown can be fabricated from porcelain, from gold, or from a combination of porcelain and metal. A crown can look just like a natural tooth when it is made with porcelain coverage. Numerous factors are considered when determining the crown material that is best for your particular tooth, including the color, bite, shape, space, and location of the tooth in your mouth.

How should I care for my teeth after I receive a crown?

To prevent damaging or fracturing the crown, avoid chewing extremely hard foods and ice. You also should avoid grinding or clenching your teeth. In addition to brushing twice a day and visiting your dentist regularly, cleaning between your teeth is essential if you have crowns. Use floss or interdental cleaners (specially shaped brushes and sticks) to remove plaque from the crown area where the gum meets the tooth. This process helps to prevent both dental decay and gum disease.

What do I do if I’m a still confused about these procedures?

 If you are still unclear about the process of placing a crown or a post and core build-up, speak to Dr. Ngo. She can walk you through the steps of the procedures and address any questions or concerns you may have. It is important to have these types of conversations with Dr. Ngo  so that your journey to an improved smile doesn’t start—or end—with a frown.

Brought to you by the AGD

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in Garland TX, Richardson TX, Plano TX, Dallas TX, Murphy TX, Sachse TX, Wylie TX or surrounding areas we are here to help you with your family, restorative or cosmetic dentistry needs.

In addition to good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, there are other ways to protect teeth from decay. Dental sealants can protect teeth and seal them off from decay-causing bacteria.

 What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are made of plastic and are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. The plastic fits into the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures) of teeth. The sealants protect tooth enamel from the bacteria and acids that cause decay.

 Why can’t I just brush and floss?

While brushing and flossing help to remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth, toothbrush bristles often can’t reach into the teeth’s depressions and grooves. Sealants protect those areas and prevent food and bacteria from getting in.

 How does the dentist apply a sealant?

Dr. Ngo can apply sealants easily, and it takes only a few minutes to seal each tooth. She first cleans the teeth that will be sealed, which may require the use of a dental drill to open the grooves of the teeth and determine if decay is present. Then she will roughen the chewing surfaces with an acid solution, which will help the sealant stick to the teeth. Dr. Ngo then “paints” the sealant on the tooth. It bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. Sometimes she will use a special curing light to help the sealant harden.

 Aren’t sealants just for kids?

Decay can begin early in life, so Dr. Ngo usually apply sealants to children’s and teenagers’ premolars and molars to protect them. But sealants can protect adults’ teeth, too. Ask us about sealants for your children or for yourself to see if they would be beneficial.

 How long do they last?

As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and usually last several years before a reapplication is needed. The risk of decay decreases significantly after sealant application. During your regular dental visits, Dr. Ngo will check the condition of the sealants and reapply them when necessary.

 Are sealants safe?

Sealants are extremely safe, though some people may have an allergic reaction to the plastic. Talk to Dr. Ngo if you or your children have allergies so that she can provide the best treatment options.

 Will my insurance pay for sealants?

Health insurance usually will pay for sealants for children’s and teenagers’ permanent molars. If Dr. Ngo suggests sealants for other teeth, she will tell you whether or not the costs will be covered. Be sure to check with your dental insurance company about your insurance plan as coverage may vary.

For more oral health tips, talk to Dr. Ngo or visit KnowYourTeeth.com. Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in Garland TX, Richardson TX, Plano TX, Dallas TX, Murphy TX, Sachse TX, Wylie TX or surrounding areas we are here to help you with your family, restorative or cosmetic dentistry needs.

Is work or school stressing you out? You may be taking it out on your teeth through a condition called bruxism. Bruxism is characterized by the grinding of the teeth and is typically accompanied by the clenching of the jaw. Researchers classify bruxism as a habitual behavior as well as a sleep disorder. Untreated bruxism can lead to other health problems, damage to the teeth and gums, and even temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).

What causes bruxism?

Bruxism can have numerous causes, such as bite problems, stress, medical conditions, or certain medications.

What are signs of bruxism?

Most people with bruxism are not aware of the condition, and only approximately 5% develop symptoms (such as jaw pain and headaches) that require treatment. In many cases, a sleeping partner or parent will notice the bruxism before the person experiencing the problem is even aware of it. The noise resulting from bruxism can be quite loud. Bruxism can result in abnormal wear patterns on the top surfaces of teeth, unusually sensitive teeth, notching of the teeth at the gum lines, as well as severe damage to the teeth, including fractures. Bruxism also is a significant cause of tooth loss, gum recession, and loosening of the teeth.

What are the symptoms of bruxism?

The symptoms of bruxism vary and can include anxiety, stress, and tension; depression; earache; eating disorders; headache; insomnia; and a sore or painful jaw. If left untreated, bruxism eventually shortens and blunts the teeth being ground and can lead to facial muscle pain and TMD. In severe chronic cases, it can lead to arthritis of the temporomandibular joints.

How is bruxism diagnosed?

The patient often becomes aware of the condition during a routine dental examination. Dr. Ngo will be able to recognize the signs of bruxism during a dental exam and may even suggest further analysis of your bruxism, such as recommending an overnight stay at a sleep laboratory.

How is bruxism treated?

There is not always a definitive cure for bruxism, but the signs and symptoms can be reduced or eliminated through dental treatment. Treatments can include mouth guards, bite adjustments, biofeedback devices, and repair of damaged teeth. Do you have questions about bruxism? Talk to Dr. Ngo during your next check-up!

Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland Tx, Richardson Tx, Plano Tx, Murphy Tx, SachseTx, Wylie Tx or surrounding areas we are here to help you with your family, restorative or cosmetic dentistry needs.

What are dental emergencies and how can I help my children avoid them?

Dental emergencies occur when the tooth breaks, cracks, becomes loosened, or is knocked out completely. Emergencies also include crowns coming off teeth or injuries to mouth tissue. You can help your children avoid dental emergencies by taking simple precautions, including making sure they wear mouth guards during sports activities and avoid foods that could crack or break the teeth.

What should I do if my child’s tooth is knocked out?

Your child’s tooth will have the best chance of surviving dental trauma if you see Dr. Ngo within one hour of any emergency. Handle the tooth at the top, not by the root (the pointed part on the bottom). Gently rinse the tooth in water to remove dirt, but do not scrub it. Place the clean tooth in your child’s mouth between the cheek and gum to keep it moist. It is important not to let the tooth dry out, so if your child can’t keep it in their mouth, wrap it in a clean cloth or gauze and immerse it in milk or the child’s own saliva until you get to our office. If your child has a baby tooth knocked out, the tooth should not be replanted. However, your child should visit Focus Dental immediately to ensure no broken pieces of the tooth remain.

What should I do if my child’s tooth is pushed out of position?

Call Focus Dental right away for an emergency appointment. In the meantime, attempt to reposition your child’s tooth to its normal alignment using light finger pressure—but don’t force it.

What should I do if my child’s tooth is chipped or fractured?

There are different types of tooth fractures. Chipped teeth are minor fractures. Moderate fractures involve damage to the enamel, tissue, and/or pulp. A severely fractured tooth usually has been traumatized to the point that it cannot be recovered. If your child fractures a tooth, rinse his or her mouth with warm water and use an ice pack to reduce swelling. Contact Focus Dental immediately. He or she can smooth minor tooth fractures with a sandpaper disc, but some fractures may require restorative procedures. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you to our office.

What should I do if tissue in my child’s mouth is injured?

If your child experiences a tear, cut, puncture wound, or laceration on his or her cheek, lips, or tongue, immediately clean the wound with warm water. Bleeding from a tongue laceration can be reduced by pulling the tongue forward and using gauze to place pressure on the wound. Visit an oral surgeon for emergency care as soon as possible, or go to the emergency room if you cannot see an oral surgeon right away.

Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland Tx, Richardson Tx, Plano Tx, Murphy Tx, SachseTx, Wylie Tx or surrounding areas we are here to help you with your family, restorative or cosmetic dentistry needs.