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Welcome to Fulshear, Texas, where the dental care expertise of Miller Dental and their dedicated team ensures your teenager’s oral health is in safe hands. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the realm of wisdom tooth extractions for teens. As parents, understanding the nuances of this common adolescent dental procedure is crucial for your teen’s well-being.

Understanding Wisdom Teeth: The Late Bloomers

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically make their debut during the late teens. While a natural occurrence, they often bring along issues such as crowding or impaction, necessitating extraction. This routine procedure is a vital aspect of adolescent dental care that every parent should be well-versed in.

Signs and Symptoms: Decoding the Teen Dental Code

Keep a keen eye on your teen’s complaints, especially if they mention pain at the back of their mouth. Swelling, difficulty in mouth opening, and discomfort while chewing are telltale signs that merit a dental check-up at Miller Dental.

The Extraction Process Unveiled: Comfort is Key

At Miller Dental, we prioritize your teen’s comfort during wisdom tooth extraction. Modern techniques and sedation options are seamlessly integrated to ensure a stress-free experience. Dr. Miller will walk both you and your teen through the procedure during a comprehensive consultation.

Preparing Your Teen for Surgery: Key Preparations

Preparation is paramount. Guide your teen to follow pre-surgery instructions diligently, including fasting if required. Openly discuss what to expect during the procedure, emphasizing its routine nature to allay any concerns.

Recovery and Aftercare: Nurturing the Healing Process

Post-extraction care is a linchpin for a smooth recovery. Soft foods, ample rest, and avoidance of strenuous activities for a few days are recommended. Detailed aftercare instructions provided by Dr. Miller will guide you through the process and ensure quick healing.

Potential Complications: Navigating the Rare Occurrences

While complications like dry sockets and infections are rare, our team at Miller Dental offers comprehensive guidance on prevention and recognition. Prompt attention from our experts at 832.400.4435 can circumvent serious issues.

When to Consult the Dentist: A Parent’s Watchful Eye

Excessive discomfort or unusual symptoms post-extraction should prompt immediate contact with Miller Dental. Regular follow-up appointments are integral to monitor the healing process and address any emerging concerns.

At Miller Dental, we comprehend the anxieties surrounding teenage dental care. Our unwavering support extends to you and your teen throughout this journey. For more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller, call us at 832.400.4435. Remember, early intervention lays the foundation for preventing future dental problems.

In Fulshear, Texas, Miller Dental is your trusted partner in ensuring your teenager’s oral health flourishes.

 
 
 
what is burnt in a root canal blog image

Are you dealing with a toothache that just won’t quit? You’re not alone. Tooth pain can be unbearable, affecting your daily life and making even the simplest tasks seem daunting. When it comes to persistent tooth pain, there’s a solution that can save your smile and provide much-needed relief: root canals. In this informative and conversational article, we’ll delve into the world of root canals, demystifying the procedure and shedding light on how Miller Dental, led by the expert Dr. Brody Miller in Fulshear, Texas, can help you regain your dental health and comfort.

Understanding Root Canals

Let’s start by breaking down the basics. A root canal is a dental procedure designed to treat and save a tooth that is severely decayed or infected. It’s named after the part of the tooth it focuses on—the “root canal,” which is the hollow area within the tooth’s root.

Why Choose Miller Dental for Your Root Canal Needs?

When it comes to addressing your dental concerns, choosing the right dentist is crucial. If you’re in Fulshear, Texas, you’re in luck because Miller Dental is here to provide exceptional care, led by the highly skilled Dr. Brody Miller. Here are some reasons why you should consider Miller Dental for your root canal:

  • Expertise and Experience: Dr. Brody Miller is a seasoned dental professional with years of experience in performing root canals. You can trust his expertise to ensure a successful and pain-free procedure.
  • Advanced Technology: Miller Dental stays at the forefront of dental technology, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to make your root canal treatment as efficient and comfortable as possible.
  • Compassionate Care: At Miller Dental, your comfort and well-being are top priorities. Dr. Brody Miller and his team are known for their compassionate and patient-centered approach, making your dental experience a positive one.
  • Convenient Location: Located in the heart of Fulshear, Texas, Miller Dental is easily accessible, ensuring you receive prompt care when you need it most. You can reach them at (832) 536-1029 to schedule your appointment.

The Root Canal Procedure

Now that you know why Miller Dental is the right choice for your root canal, let’s dive into what the procedure entails. Many people have misconceptions about root canals, often associating them with pain and discomfort. However, thanks to modern dentistry and the skilled hands of professionals like Dr. Brody Miller, root canals are a relatively painless and highly effective treatment option.

  • Diagnosis: The first step is a thorough examination of your tooth. Dr. Miller will assess the extent of the damage or infection using advanced diagnostic tools. X-rays are commonly used to get a clear picture of the affected area.
  • Local Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort throughout the procedure, a local anesthetic will be administered to numb the area around the affected tooth.
  • Cleaning and Disinfection: Once the tooth is numb, Dr. Miller will create a small access point to reach the infected pulp and damaged nerve. The interior of the tooth (the root canal) is then carefully cleaned, removing any infected tissue.
  • Filling and Sealing: After cleaning, the root canal is filled with a biocompatible material to replace the removed pulp. This prevents any further infection and strengthens the tooth’s structure. The access point is sealed to ensure no bacteria can re-enter the tooth.
  • Restoration: In most cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal will require a crown to provide additional strength and protection. Dr. Brody Miller will discuss the best restoration option for your specific case.

Benefits of Root Canals

Root canals offer numerous benefits, making them a preferred choice for saving a severely damaged or infected tooth:

  • Pain Relief: Root canals effectively eliminate the pain caused by tooth infections. Once the infected tissue is removed, your discomfort disappears.
  • Preservation of Natural Teeth: Root canals allow you to keep your natural tooth, avoiding the need for extraction and potential complications associated with missing teeth.
  • Improved Oral Health: By removing the source of infection, a root canal helps maintain your overall oral health and prevents the spread of bacteria.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: With a crown placed on the treated tooth, your smile remains intact, and no one will be able to tell you’ve had a root canal.

Recovery and Aftercare

After your root canal procedure at Miller Dental, you can expect a relatively quick and comfortable recovery. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth healing process:

  • Follow Post-Op Instructions: Dr. Brody Miller will provide you with specific post-operative care instructions. Be sure to follow them closely to promote proper healing.
  • Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. This will help prevent future dental issues.
  • Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with Miller Dental to monitor the health of the treated tooth and your overall oral well-being.

Conclusion

Don’t let persistent tooth pain disrupt your life. If you’re in Fulshear, Texas, Miller Dental and Dr. Brody Miller are your go-to experts for root canal treatments. With their advanced technology, compassionate care, and commitment to your well-being, you can trust them to provide pain relief and preserve your beautiful smile. Say goodbye to toothaches and hello to a healthier, happier you. Contact Miller Dental at (832) 536-1029 to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a pain-free future. Your smile deserves the best, and Miller Dental is here to deliver just that.

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Dental implants are an investment, and after you go through the process and finally have that perfect smile, it is important to care for them properly. Watching what you eat or chew on helps to ensure your implants stay in great condition. There are certain foods patients should avoid with their dental implants to help keep them looking and feeling great.

We specialize in implant dentistry, and our team is trained to work with each patient throughout the entire process. We prepare our patients on what to expect, and discuss how to care for your implants at home. Practicing good oral hygiene is always key to ensure you keep your implants clean and free of harmful plaque.

Can I Eat Popcorn?

Popcorn is one of the foods that should be avoided if you have dental implants. Any food that is a seed can be dangerous, and can cause you to have potential issues. Popcorn specifically can get stuck between the teeth and gums, and damage your implants. If you chewon an un-popped kernel, this can put stress on your implant ,and can cause the implant to become weak or unstable. Implants are durable, but in some cases, they can break or crack if they are not treated with care.

Wealways recommendpatientstreattheir implants just like their natural teeth. Keeping your dentalimplants clean and healthy can avoid unnecessary or painful trips to the dentist. After investing in yoursmile, you want to avoid the need for repair. There are plenty of snacks and foodsthat aresofter, andaresafe to eat with dental implants.

Looking to Schedule An Appointment?

If you are interested in finding out more about dental implants and how they can benefit you, contact us today to schedule your appointment. Our office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and we provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for our patients.
 
If you are unhappy with your smile, and are looking to restore the functionality of your teeth and mouth, we can help. Let us get you started with the process towards a smile you can be confident to show others.
To schedule your appointment, give us a call, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.
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Patients that choose to move forward with the dental implant process wonder how painful the procedure will be. Dental implants look and feel natural in the mouth, and are a great restorative solution for those that have missing, cracked, or broken teeth. Our customized treatment plans work foreach patient’s needs, and we work closely with our patients every step of the way.

Overall, the implant process is not painful. Many patients say that the dental implant process is less painful than having a tooth pulled. To keep patients comfortable we use local anesthesia and numb the gums around the implant area. Our team also checks to make sure each patient has enough bone present in their jaw to support their new implants. If necessary, bone grafting can be done to give patients the bone required in their jaw. This is an extra step in the process and does require additional healing.

How Is the Implant Healing Process?

The healing process for dental implants takes between 4-6 months. Antibiotics may be recommended topatients,as well as pain relievers to help with the healing process.

After Your Implant Procedure You May Have the Following

  • Minor bleeding that should subside after a day or two.
  • Minor swelling or bruisingaround the face and implant area.
  • Some pain or sensitivity around the implant area.

If patients notice any pain, swelling, or bleeding that does not subside, or gets progressively worse ween courage you to contact our office immediately. You will need to be seen in our office as soon as possible. During the healing process soft foods are recommended, and patients should stay away from foods or drinks that may stain your teeth.

Dental implants can last up to 25 years or a lifetime if they are cared for properly. The pain associated with the dental implant process can be kept at a minimum by following the at home care instructions. Implants are a great choice for patients seeking a beautiful smile that is permanent and will last for years.

Interested in Finding Out More?

To find out more, scheduling your implant consultation is the first step towards a beautiful smile. Ourteam is available to answer any questions, and our detailed consultation process allows our team to takea close look at your mouth and teeth. We will build a customized treatment plan and get you on theroad to a beautiful smile.

To schedule your implant consultation contact our office,and our friendly staff will be happy to assistyou!

what is burnt in a root canal blog image

Root canals are required when the soft tissue inside the root canal of a tooth is inflamed or infected. In most cases root canals are from bacteria, or an injury to the tooth. This causes an infection, and in order to save a tooth a root canal must be done. Root canals must be treated promptly to avoid more serious issues or further infection.

Patients may experience symptoms that indicate they need a root canal, but in some cases patients have no symptoms. Issues that lead to root canals are sometimes found during our regular dental exams. At Endodontics in Fulshear, TX, we recommend patients attend their regular visits to our office, and contact us immediately if patients experience any symptoms of needing a root canal.

Symptoms Indicating You May Need a Root Canal

  • Tooth discoloration
  • Tooth injury
  • Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
  • Swelling around the gums or teeth
  • Prolonged pain around the tooth
  • Pain while eating or chewing
  • Jaw is tender to the touch

How Does the Root Canal Process Work?

The first step is to take an x-ray which helps our team check for infection, and allows our team to view the shape of the root canal. Local anesthesia is used to help keep patients comfortable and relaxed. Root canal therapy usually requires multiple appointments, and this depends on the severity of the infection.

A rubber sheet or dental dam is then placed around the tooth to keep bacteria out and to protect the patient. The infected pulp is removed, and the area is cleaned and sealed. The area is cleaned with a special antimicrobial solution, and is handled carefully to ensure the solution does not leak or leave the area. The sealant is a rubber-like material that is heated up and compressed into the root canal. Once this is done the ends of the sealant are melted off using a tool with a heated tip. If a crown is required we provide temporary crowns until your permanent crown is ready.

Recovery After a Root Canal

Recovery after a root canal procedure is minimal. Patients may experience some pain or sensitivity around the area, but this should subside after a few days. Patients can return to normal activity shortly after their root canal procedure. If patients have prolonged pain or sensitivity that does not go away, we recommend that you contact our office to be seen immediately.

Root canals are very common, and are safe and effective. The success rate for root canals is 95%, and they can fail occasionally. This is typically due to a fracture in the tooth, loose crown, or further decay. Root canals stop the spread of infection, and preserve both your tooth and jawbone.

Looking for an Endodontist in Fulshear, TX?

If you are looking for an Endodontics practice in Fulshear TX, or are in need of a Root Canal our team is here to help. We provide patients with many Endodontic services to keep your teeth and mouth healthy. With convenient scheduling and high end technology, we provide our patients with exceptional service. Our office welcomes patients with many amenities, and is comfortable and family-friendly.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation, and learn more about how you can benefit from root canal therapy.

radiation in dental x ray

Dental x-rays are commonly used when you visit your dentist. Many patients wonder if dental x-rays are safe and if they should worry about radiation exposure. Expressing concerns about your health and safety is normal, and the good news is that dental x-rays are extremely safe. You may notice your hygienist covers you with protective equipment and leaves the room during the x-ray. This is to avoid repeated exposure because hygienists perform x-rays daily as part of their cleaning and exam routines. The protective equipment placed on the patient helps to further protect your body and organs that are more sensitive to radiation exposure.

Every day we are exposed to levels of radiation naturally in the environment, and dental x-rays only make up a small fraction of the average daily dose of radiation each day. Patients do not need to worry about exposure, as the amount is so low there is nothing to be concerned about.

Are Dental X-Ray’s Safe?

Dental x-rays do not require much radiation to produce images. With the new technology used today x-rays use 90% less radiation exposure and are safe for patients. Diagnostic imaging gives our team the ability to see inside your teeth and this allows the detection of decay, bone loss, or oral cancer. X-rays can help prevent future issues by diagnosing and treating anything we see promptly.

Benefits of Dental X-Ray’s

  • Detect decay, fillings, gum disease, and oral cancer.
  • Detect changes in soft or hard tissues.
  • Show jawbone development
  • Detect bone loss

Interested in Learning More About How Dental X-rays Can Benefit You?

If you are interested in learning how dental x-rays can benefit you, or you are due for your regular dental exam and cleaning, contact Miller Dental. We provide the highest level of service and use the latest technology and equipment. Let our team help you care for your smile, and prevent unnecessary visits to the dentist. Our doctors have years of experience and love to help patients care for their teeth and gums. Oral health is extremely important and is directly linked to our overall health. Attending your regular dental visits can help to detect issues and keep your smile looking and feeling great.

To schedule an appointment with us contact Miller Dental, and our staff will be happy to assist you.

how long does dental bonding last

Dental bonding can help to restore your smile and repair many cosmetic issues that bother you. Dental bonding is quick, durable, and can be less expensive compared to other cosmetic options. Dental bonding is a great solution for patients that want to change the length of a tooth, fix a chipped tooth, or close gaps between teeth. The procedure can be completed in one appointment and no anesthesia is required. Dental bonding does last, and the lifespan for dental bonding is between 5-10 years. The composite material can wear down over time depending on the wear and tear on the tooth.

How Does the Dental Bonding Process Work?

Dental bonding typically only requires one visit to our office and does not require any tooth enamel to be removed. During the bonding process, we gently etch your tooth using a mild acid solution. This helps to make the surface of the tooth rough and allows the composite material to properly bond to the tooth. The bonding is a tooth-colored material and this is applied to the area. Ultraviolet light is used to help cure the bonding. Once the bonding material is cured the tooth is polished and shaped to match the surrounding teeth. On average, bonding treatment can take between 30-60 minutes, and this depends on the severity of the correction, and the number of teeth needing treatment.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Bonding?

  • Dental bonding is affordable compared to other cosmetic treatments.
  • Treatment is less invasive with no local anesthesia.
  • Can be done in one appointment.
  • Can repair chipped, cracked, or uneven teeth.
  • Can close gaps between teeth.
  • Changes the shape of your teeth and provides a uniform smile.
  • Is an alternative to amalgam fillings.
  • Is tooth-colored material and blends in with your natural teeth.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Bonding?

If you are interested in learning more about dental bonding and how this treatment may benefit you, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us. At Miller Dental, we strive to provide quality dental care our patients can trust. We provide a calm environment where patients can relax during their dental treatment. Patients are treated like family, and we always ensure you have a positive experience. Let our dental team help you achieve the smile of your dreams with our dental bonding treatment.

To schedule your appointment contact Miller Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

oral surgery

Oral pathology is the identification process of certain diseases or disorders of the mouth or jaw. Thorough examination and accuracy in diagnosis are extremely important to ensure the patient is treated properly. Our surgeons have years of experience in oral pathology and treating disorders. Our detailed examination process allows our team to determine the cause of an issue, and provide the proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Are Examples of Common Oral Problems?

  • Misaligned jaw
  • Cleft lip or cleft palate
  • Periodontal disease
  • Oral cancer
  • Oral ulcers
  • Infections
  • Prolonged pain
  • Cavities
  • Tooth Loss

Why Is Oral Pathology Important?

Finding out the true cause of your problem is very important. This allows our team to treat you properly. If we know what is causing the problem, we can treat the issue quickly. Our team will look at not only the physical symptoms you are experiencing, but your background and any existing medical conditions you may have. Oral health and your overall health are directly connected, and oral pathology evaluates the entire picture to provide the proper diagnosis.

How Can I Protect My Oral Health?

Keeping your teeth and mouth healthy can avoid problems and multiple trips to the dental office. Following good oral hygiene habits at home is essential to keeping your teeth and mouth feeling great. Make sure to brush and floss each day, and attend your regular dental visits twice a year. Stick to a healthy diet, and avoid foods or drinks that contain high levels of sugar. Stay hydrated and make sure to get proper sleep. Your overall health directly affects your oral health, and you can protect your oral health with good hygiene and lifestyle habits.

Interested in Finding Out More About Oral Pathology?

If you are interested in finding out more about oral pathology, or have a concern you would like to discuss, please contact Miller Dental. Your oral health is our priority, and we address issues promptly to help you get on the road to recovery. Come experience quality dentistry at Miller Dental, and join our dental family.

 

To schedule your appointment, contact Miller Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Does Coke Ruin Teeth

Your diet can play a part in the health of your teeth. Drinking soda is common, and many people drink soda every day without even thinking of the effects on your teeth. Not only is soda bad for your teeth, it is associated with type 2 diabetes and weight gain. At Miller Dental, we focus on prevention and recommend patients follow a healthy diet, and avoid foods and drinks with high sugar levels. Your teeth are important, and the choices you make can help prevent many unwanted visits to the dentist.

What Happens to My Teeth When I Drink Soda?

Breaks Down Enamel

When you drink soda the sugars in the soda mix with the bacteria in your mouth to form acid. This acid attacks your teeth and can wear down the tooth enamel. The acid breaks down the enamel on your teeth and softens it, making the enamel more prone to decay. Evan sugar free sodas can damage your enamel.

Cavities

When you drink soda, the acid can also reach the layer of dentin that is under the enamel. This can cause cavities to develop over time for people that drink Coke regularly. If you have composite fillings, the soda can also erode away your fillings.

What Can I Do To Prevent Coke From Damaging My Teeth?

If you have to have a soda once in a while, there are things you can do while enjoying your beverage that can help prevent damage to your teeth.

  • Use a straw to sip the soda. This will help keep the acid and sugar off of your teeth.
  • Drink soda only on occasion. Only drink soda for special occasions, or try and limit your intake to one soda per day.
  • Drink fast to lessen the time the soda has to interact with your teeth.
  • Rinse with water after you drink a soda. Rinsing after drinking soda can help wash the acids and sugars away from your teeth, and prevent damage.
  • Don’t brush right away after drinking a soda. Brushing right after drinking a soda can cause damage to your teeth. This is because the acid from the soda was just in contact with your teeth, and this makes your teeth more vulnerable to damage while brushing.
  • Attend regular cleanings and exams at your dentist. Regular visits will allow our doctors to identify problems before they become more serious.
  • Do not drink soda before bedtime. Drinking before bedtime just gives the acid and sugar all night to attack your teeth and cause damage.
  • Choose other beverages such as water or sparkling soda water that will not cause damage to your teeth.

Taking care of your oral health should be a priority, and this includes making good choices when it comes to your diet. Staying away from sugary foods and drinks can really help keep your enamel strong, and your teeth free of cavities. If you think you have damage from drinking soda and would like to come in for an exam, we welcome you to schedule an appointment with us. Our team can help get your oral health back on track, and give you recommendations on what to change in order to prevent future issues.

Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?

If you are due for your dental cleaning or exam, or have concerns about the enamel on your teeth and would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Miller Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Dental Insurance

Choosing the right dental insurance plan is important because dental work can be expensive. Even a simple filling can be costly. Knowing what to look for when choosing a dental insurance plan, and understanding what is covered can help you figure out what plan is best for you. Most dental plans will cover 100% or preventative care if you use in-network dentists. This includes exams, x-rays, and cleanings. Basic procedures are typically covered at 80%, and major procedures are usually covered at 50%.

What Should I Check for When Choosing My Dental Insurance?

Group Coverage

Check to see if your insurance company provides group coverage through your employer or programs such as Medicaid. These types of plans can be less expensive and have better benefits.

Check Individual Policies

Individual policies are always more expensive compared to a group policy. Most come with limited benefits, and patients should plan ahead if they need a large procedure. Many insurance companies require a waiting period before you can use the insurance coverage. If you wish to avoid the waiting period there are other plans that do not require you to wait before coverage is available.

Check for Dentists in Your Network

If you know a dentist in your area that you like, ask what insurance plans they accept. Certain policies allow you to go to the dentist of your choice. Other plans such as PPO or HMO require you to use a dentist in their network.

Understand Your Coverage

Dental insurance can be confusing, and it is important to really understand what is covered, and what your expenses will be. Research what procedures are covered and what is not so you are prepared. Some plans have benefits that are limited, and they also have waiting periods before coverage can begin. Knowing how your insurance coverage works can help avoid headaches, and help you choose the best plan available.

Most insurance coverage is great for preventative care such as exams, cleanings and x-rays. Visiting the dentist is important, and choosing the coverage that is best for you can help you pay for those expensive procedures you may need in the future. Talk to your insurance provider to really help you understand the different plans, so you can choose the plan that best works for you.

Do You Have Questions for Our Team?

At Miller Dental, we accept many insurance plans and offer alternative in house payment options for those patients that may not have dental coverage. Our goal is to ensure all of our patients can receive the treatment they need. Our staff is always available to answer any questions you may have regarding insurance or financial options.

We care about our patients, and want you to have the best experience when you visit our office. Taking care of your oral health is important, and knowing what coverage you have can help reduce stress, and make your appointments go smoothly.

Ready to Schedule an Appointment?

If you are ready to schedule an appointment with us, please contact Miller Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.