Causes of Bleeding Gums

When gums are healthy, they don’t bleed. At ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, we aim to protect our patients from gum inflammation and disease. For that, patients need to understand what causes their gums to bleed and what increases their risk factor.

Gingivitis usually results from plaque building up near the gum line. The gum pockets are a great place for bacteria to hide in, and as they produce plaque, the gums become irritated. Regular brushing can prevent plaque build-up, but it’s still necessary for patients to make biannual appointments for professional cleanings. Bleeding can also result from the gums being bruised, so while it is important to brush regularly and thoroughly, do so with a soft-bristled brush.

Smokers are especially likely to develop bleeding gums, as are people on blood thinner medications and who suffer from dry mouth. This is because saliva helps to remove tartar and combat the spread of bacteria. Pregnancy also creates hormonal conditions which favor the development of gum disease.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Thumb-Sucking

Straight teeth aren’t just better looking; they’re also more comfortable and easier to clean. Although we at ProSmiles Dental are certified Invisalign providers, we value preventive care and want the children visiting our practice to avoid the need for orthodontic correction. One of the most important ways of doing that is by breaking the habit of thumb-sucking.

Young children often suck their thumbs (or a pacifier) with little ill effect. Their facial bones are flexible until around the age of five, when their first permanent teeth start coming in. But after that, the suction can pull their incisors outward. This results in malocclusions, also known as misalignments, such as overbites and open bites, as well as overcrowding.

Children should be urged to break their thumb-sucking habit, but this may be difficult if they are relying on it as a means of self-soothing. Often, they simply replace it with a habit of pushing their tongues against their teeth, which has the same effect. It’s best for children to be included in finding solutions, but help from a child psychologist may be necessary.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Dry Mouth

Most of us have experienced a dry mouth at some point in our lives. Whether we’re parched, dehydrated, or wake up with morning breath, dry mouth can cause discomfort. Though dry mouth usually isn’t a cause for concern, it can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition such as diabetes, or as a reaction to a certain medication. To figure out the causes and treatment of your dry mouth, schedule a consultation with our doctors at ProSmiles Dental.

When our bodies don’t produce enough saliva, the mouth can become dry and uncomfortable. You may feel like you’re drinking all the water in the world and you still find no relief. To restore moisture in the mouth, our doctors may prescribe an oral rinse that boosts saliva flow. Depending on the cause of the dry mouth, you may need to double-check your prescriptions.

If you have questions or concerns regarding dry mouth, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Faulty Fillings

We provide our patients with high-quality white fillings at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, assuring them of a comfortable, functioning bite. But while some sensitivity immediately following the removal of decayed material is normal, we want our patients to be able to recognize when they need help with a faulty filling.

Patients should be able to bite down completely after getting a filling. If they can’t, the filling is too high and must be removed. Another problem is that some dentists use material for fillings which can change shape after placement, leaving a gap between it and the seal holding it in. This gap will become a home for decay-causing bacteria. But seals don’t last forever; their usual lifespan is about ten years. As the seal breaks down, bacteria are able to enter it, and the patient will feel pain as a result of the decay. These fillings also need to be replaced, and the sooner, the better, or else the patient will need more extensive restorations, such as partial crowns or a root canal.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Extrinsic Tooth Stains

There are two types of stains that can develop on teeth – extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains are caused by food and beverages such as coffee, tea, and wine, and occur on the outside of the tooth’s enamel. Intrinsic stains are more difficult to remove because they occur under the enamel in the dentin. Our doctors at ProSmiles Dental can remove both of these stains through whitening treatment.

Extrinsic tooth stains don’t pose a risk to your oral health but they may diminish your self-esteem. Extrinsic stains can be polished through a professional cleaning or bleached away by a few sessions of whitening treatment. To prevent extrinsic stains, we encourage you to refrain from smoking if this is a lifestyle habit of yours, and minimalize your coffee and wine intake.

If you have questions or concerns regarding teeth whitening, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Thank You for Your Positive Testimonials!

Here at ProSmiles Dental, our staff appreciates feedback from patients because it teaches us how to improve as a team. Our staff would not only like to thank Chelsea Harrison for this positive review, but we would like to thank her for being an excellent patient. If you recently experienced exceptional service from our office, please let us know!  

“My 3-year-old son has been here twice. I can't recommend them enough. They are very clean and have a nice modern look. They catered to my son in so many ways and what started as a nervous little boy ended with a confident boy telling everyone he went to the teeth doctors to get his teeth pretty. Today we had an emergency because his tooth got knocked back and the root was split in two. Thank goodness they were open on a Saturday and they managed to get him in promptly after calling. They let him pick what to watch in the room and let him pick out prizes. I was upset because he is probably going to lose is tooth and the Dentist showed me her son and how the same thing happened to him. She was so awesome. She searched the internet to find the best specialist to try and save his tooth. You won't regret coming here. We will forever be loyal to this place.” –Chelsea Harrison

If you would like to leave a testimonial or learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Nobody wants a smile that is dull and leaves a bad first impression, which is why Archana Lankupalli, DDS at ProSmiles Dental offers a wide variety of cosmetic services to provide you with the smile that you’ve always dreamed of. Cosmetic dental procedures are designed to improve not only the aesthetics of your smile, but the health of it as well. Common procedures include bleaching, bonding, crowns, veneers, as well as reshaping and contouring.

While traditional dentistry addresses the health of your teeth and gums, cosmetic dentistry focuses on the appearance of your teeth, mouth, and smile as a whole. This type of dentistry is aimed at creating a positive change to your teeth and to your smile. If you have a grin that embarrasses you due to missing teeth, tooth discoloration, or teeth that are chipped or cracked, Archana Lankupalli, DDS at ProSmiles Dental. will restore your confidence. If you’re not sure which procedure may be right for you, schedule a consultation, today.

If you wish to enhance the appearance of your smile, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.whitesettlementdentisttx.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Archana Lankupalli, DDS at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-369-8000.

Back to School Check Up

It’s important for everyone to get bi-annual check-ups at the dentist and children especially need professional cleanings and consultations. If decay is allowed to go untreated, they can encounter serious problems at school. Fortunately, it’s still early enough in the year for children to avoid having their development derailed by tooth aches.

“Caries” is how doctors describe small instances of tooth decay. Children are the demographic that is at highest risk for them. The latest information from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention found that untreated tooth decay is very common in children, occurring in 13% of teenagers and 20% of preteens. The effects of tooth aches can be severe: missed sleep, reluctance to eat, difficulty speaking, difficulty focusing, and grouchiness. But while tooth decay is common, it can also be prevented with sealants, such as those we can provide our patients, and by regular oral hygiene. Tooth decay does not get better on its own, so to prevent children from needing more extensive restorations later in the year, they should get everything taken care of now. We can also ascertain whether the child will need wisdom tooth extractions.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Intrinsic Stains

Patients at ProSmiles dental are assured of getting cosmetically-pleasing solutions for all their dental health problems. Most tooth stains do not constitute a threat to the patient’s health, but there are some which indicate a deeper problem. These are called intrinsic stains, and they may not be treatable with whitening.

Extrinsic stains are on the surface of the tooth and are acquired from smoking and drinking dark liquids, such as coffee and soda. But intrinsic stains are caused by something related to the dental pulp. It may just be that the patient was exposed to excessive amounts of fluoride or tetracycline antibiotics, which cause permanent teeth to develop with a blackish-purple color. These stains can simply be covered with veneers. But if the pulp is inflamed due to an infection, the patient is at risk of developing a severe tooth ache and a bad taste in their mouth. The body struggles to fight off dental infections on its own, and if the infection spreads, the patient could develop a facial abscess.

Root canals are necessary for removing inflamed dental pulp. Once it’s gone, the tooth will be sealed and can be given a veneer. However, it may be necessary to replace the whole crown, depending on the extent of the stain.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Loose Teeth

Permanent teeth should never come loose, but when they do, ProSmiles Dental is here to help. Dentists categorize dental trauma as either “primary occlusal trauma,” if the teeth split without being infected, and “secondary occlusal trauma,” which is the result of gum disease. When teeth come loose over time, instead of from a specific violent event, gum disease is to blame.

Periodontal disease causes gum tissue to recede, weakening the ligaments holding teeth in place. But what many people don’t know is that it also causes the jaw bone to lose mass. Loss of jaw bone weakens teeth even more, and the effect snowballs once the back teeth come loose. To spare their back teeth, patients often start chewing with the front of their mouths, putting too much stress on their incisors, and pushing them even further out of place.

Dentists have to get the bacterial infection under control before doing anything else. Treating loose teeth will likely involve putting a splint on them at some point, although the splint may or may not be permanent. When a large amount of bone tissue has been lost, a bone graft will be necessary before a patient can receive implants.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Traditional Braces

Though they are usually not aesthetically pleasing, traditional braces are one of the quickest ways to straighten your smile. If you have crooked teeth, and/or a misaligned bite, traditional braces can correct the problem in a matter of months. Fortunately, our doctors at ProSmiles Dental offer this orthodontic option to patients.

If you desire a straighter smile, braces work by continuously applying pressure over a period of time to slowly move teeth into their appropriate direction. Braces consist of brackets, wires, and bands, that you can customize them to express yourself. How long a patient will need to wear braces depends on the individual case, but most people wear them for one to three years. After orthodontic treatment is over, our doctors will discuss retainers with you.

If you wish to inquire about orthodontic options, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction

With age comes wisdom, and also, wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth usually erupt during the ages of 17-22 and though not everyone needs them removed, extraction is best to avoid damage to surrounding teeth. Wisdom teeth will cause problems if there isn’t enough space for them to grow. If you are noticing pain or swelling in your mouth or stiffness in your jaw, our doctors at ProSmiles Dental may need to suggest extraction.

There are more disadvantages to keeping your wisdom teeth than there are to keep them. This is because wisdom teeth that don’t erupt properly can allow food to become trapped in the gums, leading to tooth decay. Wisdom teeth that have partially-erupted can give bacteria a place to enter the gums and infection may occur. If our doctors decide that extraction is right for you, they will discuss the details in full during a consultation.

If you wish to inquire about wisdom teeth extraction, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Cosmetic Periodontal Surgery

At ProSmiles Dental, we see many patients who are unhappy with their smiles for various reasons.  The overall look of your smile includes the gums, and even when a patient has healthy teeth and gums they may be dissatisfied with the overall appearance of their smile.  We are excited to offer cosmetic periodontal surgery because it allows us to give any patient their best smile.

Cosmetic periodontal surgery is a technical way of saying sculpting the gum line.  A lack or excess of gum tissue can cause a smile to have the look of elongated teeth or a gummy smile.  To create a balanced look between gum and tooth, the procedure can include removing gum tissue, placing gum grafts, or both.  Excess tissue is removed using a laser or scalpel tool.  Soft tissue grafts are harvested from a healthy location in the patient’s mouth, and placed where gum tissue is lacking or has receded.  The result is an even ratio of tooth to gums throughout the whole mouth.  Don’t let your gums keep you from your best smile!

To learn more about cosmetic gum surgery and all the services we provide, visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com for more information.  To schedule an appointment with Dr. Archana Lankupalli at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-369-8000.

Clear Braces

Braces are still the most common way for adolescents and adults straighten their teeth.  Clear aligners have become more popular, but aren’t always effective for everyone.  If your orthodontic treatment requires brackets and wires, clear braces may be the solution for you. Visit ProSmiles Dental to see if you are a candidate for clear braces.

Clear braces use the traditional straightening technique of braces with materials designed to avoid the metallic look dreaded by so many patients.  Aesthetic improvements made to the components of braces in recent years include brackets that are available in clear and ceramic varieties, and are designed to resist staining.  Wires the color of natural teeth are used to connect these brackets. The outcome is a look that’s not totally invisible, but is much more subtle than traditional silver braces and doesn’t look metallic. Almost any orthodontic patient can achieve the same great results as traditional braces offer with a better disguise during treatment.

To learn more about all the orthodontic options and services we provide, visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com for more information.  To schedule an appointment with Dr. Archana Lankupalli at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-369-8000.

Banish Bad Breath

Bad breath that results from consuming potent foods like onions or garlic isn’t harmful to our health. However, when it becomes persistent due to lack of oral hygiene, then our doctors of ProSmiles Dental have a bone to pick with patients. Medically deemed, halitosis, bad breath can be an acute or chronic condition. There are many risk factors, such tobacco products, dry mouth, or poor oral health.  

Bad breath can be made worse by the types of foods you consume or by unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking. When we eat, our food is broken down into particles that cause plaque when not brushed away on a daily basis. The best way to prevent bad breath is by keeping your mouth as clean as possible. In addition to brushing and flossing your teeth, you should brush your tongue to eliminate all leftover food residues. Treatment for bad breath will depend on the cause.

If you have questions or concerns regarding bad breath or your oral hygiene status, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Thank You for Your Positive Reviews!

Here at ProSmiles Dental, our staff appreciates feedback from patients because it teaches us how to improve as a team. Our staff would not only like to thank Charmelle Jonzie for this positive review, but we would like to thank her for being an excellent patient. If you recently experienced exceptional service from our office, please let us know!  

“The staff is AMAZING! The front office staff makes you feel welcome. My children have seen her as well and they did an awesome job with my kids. I was having tooth pain and needed to have a filling fixed. A lot of other dentists were trying to do extra work, not addressing the problem, and charging way too much money out of pocket. I have good dental insurance. I came here had X-rays and the dentist addressed the problem as well as not charging me a lot of money out of pocket. I will definitely be going back here. Awesome job to the staff here!!!! Thank you again!” –Charmelle Jonzie

If you would like to leave a testimonial or learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Root Tip Infection

At ProSmiles Dental, Dr. Lankupalli uses root canal therapies to save infected teeth and prevent a toothache from turning into a major threat to a patient’s health. But sometimes an infection goes beyond the pulpy inner chamber of a tooth and causes inflammation at the tip of its root. This is called a periapical abscess and may require a different approach.

When bacteria kill tissue, pus develops. An abscess is a pocket of tissue which contains the pus and bacteria. A periapical abscess cannot dispose of pus on its own and must be drained. Otherwise, the patient will remain in pain and experience fever and a persistent bad taste. Furthermore, an abscess may not be able to contain an infection forever, and if the infection spreads, the patient may suffer ulcers in their face and potentially deadly blood poisoning.

Root canals are the first line of defense for dealing with infected pulp. If they fail, Dr. Lankupalli may decide the patient needs an apicoectomy, which is the removal and replacement of a root tip. With the imaging equipment in our Fort Worth office, we can detect infections early, so it’s to our patients’ advantage to visit regularly.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

What is a Frenectomy?

At ProSmiles Dental, we perform frenectomies to correct a number of issues patients may have with their teeth, lips, and tongue.  A frenectomy is a procedure to remove a frenum, or muscular attachment between two tissues, from the mouth.  One frenum is located underneath your tongue, and removing this is called a lingual frenectomy.  Patients that have an enlarged frenum underneath their tongue have trouble moving their tongue freely.  This is often called ‘tongue tie’, and can interfere with speech development. Lingual frenectomies are typically performed on young patients, who can recover quickly and continue to develop their speech.

Another frenum in your mouth is between the font teeth (both the upper and lower sets) and connects the inner surface of the lip with the gum. Removing this attachment is called a labial frenectomy. Patients who have receding gums can benefit from this procedure, because a strong frenum from the gum to the lip can cause extra pulling on the gums and lead to further recession.

To learn more about frenectomies and all the services we provide, visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com for more information.  To schedule an appointment with Dr. Archana Lankupalli at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-369-8000.

Night Guards for Bruxism

Bruxism is regular teeth grinding or clenching of the jaw. Stress can intensify bruxism, but it is most often caused by an abnormal bite or crooked teeth.  Some teeth grinders consciously grind their teeth and clench their jaw, but some only do so while asleep and may not even realize it.  ProSmiles Dental offers custom night guards to help patients overcome the negative effects of bruxism.

Waking up with a dull headache or experiencing pain and stiffness in your jaw are signs you may be grinding your teeth overnight, and shouldn’t be ignored.  Patients who continually grind their teeth often end up needing crowns, bridges, root canals and implants. In severe cases tooth loss can occur, and partial or complete dentures may be needed. Having a custom night guard made is a simple step that will help prevent so many issues for teeth grinders.

Night guards look similar to mouth guards worn by athletes, but serve a different purpose. A dentist uses an impression of your teeth to ensure a custom fit, and the night guard is manufactured in a dental lab. Wearing a custom night guard protects the surface of the teeth, and also properly aligns the jaw to improve breathing and sleep. If you think you a custom night guard could help you, please contact us.

To learn more about night guards and all the services we provide, visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com for more information.  To schedule an appointment with Dr. Archana Lankupalli at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-369-8000.

Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a common cause of tooth erosion. At ProSmiles Dental, Dr. Lankupalli provides patients with several treatment options to reduce and repair the damage, but we believe prevention is the best thing to ensure patients’ overall health.

There is a sphincter which separates the stomach from the esophagus. When a patient’s swallowing causes that sphincter to open, acid can escape into the esophagus and the mouth. This is especially likely to occur if the patient eats a large amount of chocolate and fried or acidic food, such as tomatoes and onions, drinks alcohol and caffeine, and eats large meals before bed. When acid reflux occurs twice or more in a week, the patient is said to have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and their teeth could be in danger.

Tooth enamel erosion from acid reflux is most common on the inward sides of the upper teeth and on the grinding surfaces of the molars. It makes teeth sensitive and less effective at grinding. Acid also causes teeth be become discolored as their outer white layer thins and their inner yellow-grey shines through. The damage can be repaired through restorations such as partial crowns, but patients should change their diets and lifestyles to avoid further harm.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting may not sound like a dental procedure, but a bone graft has become routine throughout medicine because of how it helps a body heal. The bone graft procedure consists of harvesting bone material from a healthy part of a patient’s body, and transferring it to a site that needs reinforcement.  ProSmiles Dental performs bone grafts for patients with weakened jaw bones that need dental implants.

A jaw bone can weaken over time if tooth loss or gum disease has left a certain portion of the jaw vulnerable. When a patient needs a replacement tooth, the jaw bone needs to be strong enough to handle the placement of the implant. There are synthetic options for bone grafts, but a dental graft is usually obtained from a different spot in the patient’s own mouth. This gives the injured or deficient bone a replacement, and encourages growth of new material around the site.  The healing process can take several months, and your jaw is monitored by your dentist until it heals enough to handle the placement of an implant.

To learn more about bone grafting and all the services we provide, visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com for more information.  To schedule an appointment with Dr. Archana Lankupalli at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-369-8000.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a preventative measure used to preserve the teeth and tooth enamel. Almost half of all children and adolescents in the United States have had cavities in their permanent teeth.  At ProSmiles Dental we recommend dental sealants for pediatric patients to avoid becoming part of this statistic.  Most tooth decay in children and teenagers occurs on the chewing surfaces of molars, where the pits and grooves tend to trap food and bacteria.  Molars first come in at around 5-7 years of age, with a second set coming in between the ages of 11-14.  It is best to have a sealant placed on each set of molars when they first come in to ensure they are protected early.

Sealants are applied to surfaces of these molars much like paint. The plastic resin fills any pits and grooves on the surface and hardens. Now the surface is protected from bits of food being stuck, so bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay, and tooth enamel is protected from plaque and acids.  Sealants can effectively prevent cavities for up to ten years and can be reapplied of necessary.

To learn more about sealants and all the services we provide, visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com for more information.  To schedule an appointment with Dr. Archana Lankupalli at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-369-8000.

The Danger of DIY Orthodontics

As an Invisalign provider certified by the American Orthodontic Society, Dr. Archana Lankupalli of ProSmiles Dental is concerned about reports of people attempting amateur orthodontic treatments on themselves. Doctors have released several public service announcements within the past year that these practices are often highly risky and unlikely to yield good results.

The current DIY orthodontic fad began with the publication of an online article by someone who used a 3D-printer to fashion his own invisible aligners. Invisalign patients know that aligners are dispensed three at a time at six-week intervals. The author described this as a deliberate effort to prolong treatment to extort more payments from patients.

In fact, orthodontic work takes time because teeth and jaws are living bones and moving teeth through jaws requires that the bone have time to dissolve and heal. Speeding up tooth migration does not give the jaws enough time to solidify, which may result in teeth coming loose, falling out, traveling back to their previous position, or becoming otherwise misaligned. Other DIY orthodontic ideas, such as binding teeth together, pose a risk of cutting off teeth’s blood supply or that the binding material will get lost in the patient’s gum tissue. We urge anyone who is frustrated with their bite or the appearance of their teeth to inquire with us about professional treatment and our office’s payment options. Attempting cheap, amateur solutions will only make things much worse.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Dry Sockets

At ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, Dr. Archana Lankupalli carries out dozens of extractions every month. Her expertise has relieved many patients of problems from overcrowding or readied them for restorations. The main risk following extraction is a dry socket, and Dr. Lankupalli is committed to helping patients understand post-op instructions and what will happen if they suffer an emergency.

A simple extraction, in which a tooth is pulled straight out, usually does not require sutures. It does, however, require something to seal off the socket to prevent infection and dryness until it closes naturally, which will take a few days. If the patient is not taking a medication which interferes with clotting, the blood clot which forms after the tooth is extracted should be enough to protect the socket, but the patient needs to avoid activities which may cause it to dissolve or break off. Sipping through a straw is one such risky behavior, as the suction can dislodge clots.

Unfortunately, complications are more likely in the cases of extractions which required incisions to the patient’s gums or jaw bone. The follow-up appointment for suture removal will provide Dr. Lankupalli with an opportunity to see if the healing is progressing normally. But if patients feel severe pain or can see that their socket is exposed, they should schedule an emergency appointment immediately. Dr. Lankupalli will numb clean the socket and provide wound dressing with antibacterial medication.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Mouth Guards for Sports

Are you and your family getting active in sports this season?  The staff at ProSmiles Dental wants you to know you may be overlooking an important safety precaution.  Athletes participating in any contact sport are advised to wear some kind of mouth protection. A mouth guard helps prevent damage to the teeth and jaw, and also helps prevent injuries to the cheeks, tongue, and lips.  Most sporting goods stores carry mouth guards, but not in many sizes. These generic mouth guards often end up feeling uncomfortable, leading to child and teenage athletes in particular not wearing the protection at all.  A bulky or cushioned mouth guard can even interrupt breathing and speaking.

Custom mouth guards can be fit over braces and won’t interrupt normal activity. Come see us at ProSmiles Dental and have a dentist perform a custom mouth guard fitting for a mouth guard made of thin, hard plastic that protects your teeth and still fits comfortably.  This is an easy precaution to take for athletes, and you can go right back to playing your best!

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

Scaling and Root Planing

In its most advanced stages, gum disease can lead to gum recession and even tooth loss.  At ProSmiles Dental, we can help make sure it never gets to that stage with a scaling and root planing procedure.  When sticky bacteria called plaque builds up on a tooth, the gum starts to pull away from the tooth and form a pocket around the buildup.  This only leads to more gum recession.  Scaling and root planing are two parts of a deep cleaning your dentist can perform to repair gums and prevent the later stages of gum disease.

The procedure begins with scaling, the process of removing plaque from the surface of your teeth all the way down to your gums. This is followed by root planing, which involves minor contouring to smooth the surface of a tooth near the root.  Once the plaque has been removed and the tooth root has been smoothed, the gums that have pulled away have a clean, smooth surface to reattach to.   Local anesthetic is used during this procedure, and your dentist may recommend completing the treatment over a series of appointments. 

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

That baby teeth are not permanent does not mean they shouldn’t be kept clean. We at ProSmiles Dental want families with young children to know how they can help their children avoid toothaches and be set for a lifetime of oral health. One of the biggest problems facing toddlers is a pattern dentists refer to as Baby Bottle Tooth Decay.

Incisors, the front teeth, are usually the first to erupt, and their fronts are where the sugar from bottled fluid tends to accumulate. The longer sugar remains on a tooth’s surface, the more likely the tooth is to experience decay. Unfortunately, toddlers are often allowed to drink milk or formula from a bottle over a period of an hour or more, keeping their teeth coated in sugar, and because they are unable to access their own drinking water, they have no means of washing away residue.

Parents can prevent Baby Bottle Tooth Decay by teaching their children to drink from cups as soon as possible, ensuring they are getting enough water to drink, and taking away milk bottles once a child is done feeding. (Children should only be given fruit juice and other sugary drinks after they have graduated to cups.) It is also important to begin brushing a baby’s teeth as soon as the first one begins to erupt.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

What are Mini-Implants For?

With her advanced post-graduate training in implants, Dr. Archana Lankupalli of ProSmiles Dental is able to secure her patients dentures in place with mini-implants. Although full-sized implants have improved the lives of many patients by providing them with permanent replacement teeth, there are situations in which it may be preferable for them to have a removable denture mounted mini-implants to prevent mishaps.

Like full-size implants, mini-implants fuse with a patient’s jaw bone. Their smaller size allows them to be placed without an incision, but because they don’t have as much bone support, most dentists don’t use them to anchor permanent fixtures in the mouth. Sometimes they are used to bolt the gel base of a denture directly to the patient’s ridge, other times they have ball-shaped abutments or support a bar which the denture is snapped onto.

Other advantages of mini-implants are that they help to stabilize the jaw bone and keep the denture better fitted to the patient’s jaw. Patients should be sure to remove their denture on a nightly basis and to brush in between the mini-implant abutments, but they need no longer worry about the denture falling out or that their breath will smell like adhesive. For people whose bone tissue is too weak or crowded for full-sized implants, mini-implants provide an alternate means of restoring their smiles.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

How to Clean Dentures

At ProSmiles Dental, we value our relationships with our patients and want to ensure they have as easy a time as possible adjusting to changes in their oral hygiene needs. Getting dentures is one such major transition, and to get the most use out of them, patients need to understand how to clean their new teeth.

Natural teeth are coated in the hardest substance in the human body and produce their own protective film. But artificial teeth do not, and they may be scratched by ordinary toothpaste. Patients should brush their dentures with toothpaste designated specifically for that purpose and brush the whole denture, not just the bits which mimic teeth. Like all oral hygiene, this should be done with a soft-bristled brush.

Even if dentures are supported by implants, they should be removed every night. While outside the mouth, they need to be kept moist by being soaked in cleaning solution or water. It is important that the soaking solution not be too hot, as this may warp the denture’s thin plastic. Removing dentures will give patients an opportunity to brush the inside of their mouths, which should be done in the morning to stimulate blood flow before putting the denture back in.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

HPV and Oral Cancer

April is oral cancer awareness month. One of the most interesting developments in oral cancer this past year is that, for the first time, the rate of new human papilloma virus (HPV)-associated cancers has outpaced the rate of new cases caused by tobacco and alcohol. While the Center for Disease Control’s recent recommendation that boys, as well as girls, receive HPV vaccinations is encouraging, there is not yet proof that the vaccine works on oral HPV.

HPV-associated oral cancers usually occur in the oropharynx, which is the medical term for the region encompassing the back of the mouth, top of the throat, and tonsils. Oropharyngeal cancers are harder to detect than front-of-mouth cancers, although they are easier to treat once caught. Of the nearly two hundred strains of HPV, only nine are known to cause cancer, and only one is known to cause oral cancer. However, there is no way of testing for oral HPV infections, and 80% of American adults will have one at some point in their lives.

Patients should be aware that swelling, pain, and numbness in their throats, jaws, and ears are reasons to get screened for cancer. While public education has helped combat tobacco-associated cancer, many people are unaware of the risk posed by HPV. It is important for the public to stop thinking of oral cancer as something that only affects elderly smokers.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Invisalign

Life is hectic with all of the rushing around that we do, so who has time to straighten their teeth? The answer is, you. Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, Invisalign treatment allows you to straighten your teeth without any metal or wires getting in your way, leaving you to enjoy the best times of your life, bracket-free. After we explain the benefits of Invisalign, schedule a consultation with one of our doctors at ProSmiles Dental to start your journey to a straighter smile.

After your consultation, our doctor will develop a customized treatment plan to adjust your smile. These include scanning the mouth to create 3D digital images of your teeth. After the treatment plan is mapped out, using a computer, you’ll be able to see how your teeth will move during each stage of treatment. Once you receive your aligners, they are easily removable, therefore you’ll be able to brush and floss as you normally would. You’ll also be able to remove the aligners each time you eat, so you don’t have to worry about sticky foods getting stuck in your orthodontics.

If you wish to inquire about Invisalign orthodontic treatment, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Thank You For Your Testimonials!

Here at ProSmiles Dental, our staff appreciates feedback from patients because it teaches us how to improve as a team. Our staff would not only like to thank David Wyatt for this positive review, but we would like to thank him for being an excellent patient. If you recently experienced exceptional service from our office, please let us know!  

“Today was our first visit to ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford St, Fort Worth. The Staff was very courteous and helpful, the facilities were clean, well laid out and they seem to have all the equipment you might expect to find at a dental clinic. Everything was explained in complete detail throughout the examination and cleaning. This is a very new office and they are still accepting new patients. They do not yet have a Dental Hygienist on staff until they have enough patients’ to keep the hygienist busy full time. This may seem a little strange, but Dr. Lankupalli did the cleaning and I must say, having never had a cleaning from the actual doctor, that it was the most complete and quick cleaning I’ve ever had. I would highly recommend this dental office.”

If you would like to leave a testimonial or learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Cosmetic Dentistry

From subtle changes to major repairs, at Prosmiles Dental we offer a variety of procedures to improve your smile. While traditional dentistry addresses the health of your teeth and gums, cosmetic dentistry focuses on the appearance of your teeth, mouth, and smile as a whole. Today, cosmetic dentistry is more popular than ever, from whitening and shaping to closing spaces and replacing teeth. But before you decide to undergo any cosmetic procedure, we can discuss what's right for you.

At Prosmiles Dental, some of our cosmetic procedures include teeth whitening as well as applying veneers, dental bonding, and white fillings. Teeth whitening is a common and popular chemical process that brightens teeth that have become discolored or stained. Depending on the patient’s preference, this can be performed by one of our doctor’s in-office or in the comfort of your own home. Veneers and bonding, on the other hand, are used on teeth with uneven surfaces or are chipped, discolored, oddly shaped, unevenly spaced or crooked. They are thin pieces of porcelain or plastic placed over the front teeth to change the color or shape of your teeth.

If you desire a more aesthetically pleasing smile, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Prosmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

TMJ Disorder

The temporomandibular joint acts like a sliding hinge that connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull, which are in front of each ear. This joint allows you to move your jaw up-and-down and side-to-side, so you can talk, chew, and yawn. Problems with your jaw and the muscles in your face that control it are known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD). However, it can also be known as TMJ, after the joint. If these muscles are causing you pain, our doctors of Prosmiles Dental can provide you with relief.

Some of the symptoms of TMD include pain when opening or closing the mouth, trouble chewing, jaw becoming stuck open or shut, headaches or ear pain, clicking or popping sounds while opening your mouth, as well as teeth grinding. Many of these symptoms can often be associated with other health problems, so only a medical professional can tell you if it is due to TMD.

If you suspect you may have TMD, come in for a consultation. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Prosmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Gum Recession

If your gums have receded, the ProSmiles Dental clinic in Fort Worth can help you restore them to health. Gum recession can occur for a number of reasons, including tooth misalignment and genetics, but the most common cause is periodontal disease.

Teeth naturally fit into gum pockets, which are sung, but not airtight. Some bacteria will always work their way below the gum line and contribute to decay. Deep cleanings can remove plaque from gum pockets, but if decay goes on for too long, the gum tissue covering the teeth will dissolve or contract, exposing tooth roots. Besides looking unattractive, this also leaves the patient uncomfortable and unable to enjoy cold foods.

Fortunately, gums can usually heal on their own if the plaque is removed and patients maintain their oral hygiene. Severe cases may require consultation from a periodontal specialist, who can perform surgery to cover tooth roots with donated or artificial gum material. However, patients need not fear that their exposed roots will be permanent.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Electric Toothbrushes

At ProSmiles Dental, we’re proud to provide our Fort Worth patients with the advice they need to maintain their oral hygiene. Most people understand the importance of brushing their teeth, but for various reasons, people often do it improperly. Some people would benefit from using an electric toothbrush, but it depends on what they’re doing wrong.

Proper use of a manual toothbrush requires two full minutes of brushing during each session. Most people don’t do this, and some can’t. An electric toothbrush is much faster; most can make thousands of strokes per minute, while people can only make hundreds, at most. This also makes it much easier to brush too hard or for too long, but most electric toothbrushes now come with features to alert patients if they are overdoing it.

Newer models of electric toothbrushes are being manufactured with a variety of apps to assist patients with their technique and motivation. If a person is fully capable of using a manual toothbrush correctly, an electric toothbrush may only be an expensive toy. But for a person with a limited attention span or motion control issues, electric toothbrushes can make a huge improvement in oral hygiene.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Are You Flossing Correctly?

Flossing your teeth is more important to your well-being than brushing. So why do people come up with silly excuses such as, “I’m not coordinated enough to floss,” or “I don’t know how to floss.” After today, you won’t be able to use these excuses anymore, because Dr. Archana Lankupalli of Prosmiles Dental is going to teach you how to floss correctly.

• Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty.


• Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.


• Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.


• When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a “C” shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.


• Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up-and-down motions. Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth and don’t forget the back ones!

If you have questions regarding your oral hygiene routine, give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Prosmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Are You Brushing Effectively?

When you brush your teeth, you help remove food and plaque – a sticky film that forms on your teeth and contains bacteria. The longer plaque is left on your teeth the more time it has to break down tooth enamel and lead to cavities. As much as we love to see your smile here at Prosmiles Dental, Dr. Archana Lankupalli wants you to keep it healthy and utilize these brushing tips in between professional cleanings.

• Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.


• Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes.


• Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.


• Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.


• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and don’t forget to floss!

If you need assistance maintaining your oral hygiene routine, give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Prosmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Inlays, Onlays, and Making Partial crowns

After veneers, partial crowns are the smallest type of restoration offered at ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth. Dr. Arachana Lankupalli can install restorations as complex as full-mouth dentures, but when only the surface of a chewing tooth is damaged, a partial crown called an inlay or an onlay is usually sufficient.

Molars and premolars have complex surfaces consisting of indentations and raised bumps called cuspids. An inlay fits in between the cuspids; an onlay replaces cuspids as well as indentations. If the chewing surface was lost to tooth decay, Dr. Lankupalli will need to remove the decayed material before making an impression of the patient’s mouth. The impression is sent to a lab where the partial crown is manufactured—usually out of porcelain, although patients may discuss other options. A partial crown usually takes about two weeks to arrive at the clinic, during which the patient will have a temporary crown. When the inlay or onlay is installed, patients will need to care for their teeth as normal but will have a second chance at functional, painless molars.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Never Fear with Lumineers

ProSmiles Dental in Fort Worth, Texas, is fully-equipped with the top brand products to serve patients’ health and cosmetic needs. Among the treatments Dr. Archana Lankupalli is certified to offer is the application of the patented Lumineers by Den-Mat Labs. These veneers are much lighter and thinner than the traditional model, allowing patients to smile brightly after undergoing a comparatively much less intrusive process.

Like all veneers, Lumineers are manufactured out of porcelain using an impression of the patient’s mouth as a mold. Veneers are designed to fit over the edges and fronts of the teeth, creating an artificial shell which is both whiter than the natural tooth and ideally shaped. Veneers can mask chips, gaps, and slight misalignment as well as discoloration, but the traditional models were so thick they could only be applied after some of the patient’s natural teeth had been sanded down. While the placement of Lumineers does require the patient to undergo a deep cleaning, the shell is so thin that no reshaping of the teeth is required.

If patients are satisfied with the shade of the Lumineers, the entire process of getting them may take only two visits to the clinic. Lumineers are strong enough to allow the teeth to function normally, but the lack of tooth reshaping means they can be removed if the patient ever requires further treatment.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride is a natural mineral found throughout the earth’s crust and widely distributed in nature and is often added to water to help reduce tooth decay. Research has shown that fluoride not only reduces cavities in children and adults, but it also helps repair the early stages of tooth decay before it is even visible. Fluoride could be delivered in different forms, but here at Prosmiles Dental, our doctors can discuss professional fluoride treatments to see if you are a prime candidate.

Fluoride is found naturally in soil, water, foods, and several minerals. When present at the right level, fluoride in drinking water has two beneficial effects: preventing tooth decay and contributing to healthy bones. The type of fluoride we utilize at our practice is called topical fluoride. Topical fluoride is applied directly to and absorbed by the surface of the teeth. It may be applied as a foam or gel after a professional cleaning and can additionally be found in personal oral hygiene products such as toothpaste and mouth rinses.

If you have questions about fluoride or fluoride treatment, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Prosmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Dental Emergencies

Our doctors at Prosmiles Dental are the ones you should call if you have a dental emergency. We understand that accidents happen, and knowing what to do when one occurs can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. Any dental emergency like an injury to the teeth or gums can be potentially serious and should never be ignored. Whether at home or traveling, the following tips may come in handy until you can get to our dental practice.

• For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times. If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, place it between your cheek and gums, or use a tooth preservation product that has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance.


• For a cracked tooth, immediately rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area.


• If you bite your tongue or lip, clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress.


• For toothaches, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between teeth.

If you have a dental emergency, please contact us immediately. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Prosmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.

Dental Cleaning: Defined

No matter how much you diligently brush or floss your teeth at home, harmful bacteria grow in your mouth that can only be removed by a dental professional. These bacteria can cause gum disease and significantly affect your overall health. Here at Prosmiles Dental, our hygienists will use professional tools to remove plaque, tartar and bacteria build-up that you are unable to efficiently remove yourself.

According to the Academy of General Dentistry, it is recommended that a dentist or hygienist perform a dental cleaning every six months. The professional dental cleaning reinforces the home-care oral health regimen of brushing and flossing and gives one of our doctors an opportunity to locate areas in the mouth that may need special attention. During a teeth cleaning, our team of hygienists will thoroughly clean the area above and below the gum line with scaling tools to rid them of plaque and tartar. Once the surfaces are smooth, polishing is done using a slow speed handpiece with a soft rubber cup that spins on the end. Last but not least, the dentist flosses every crevice between your teeth and may apply fluoride if needed.

If you are overdue for a dental checkup, please give us a call today. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.prosmilesdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Prosmiles Dental in Fort Worth, TX, call 817-677-8966.