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Thursday, February 22, 2018

Intruded Teeth

As a dentist who specializes in prosthodontics and member of the International Academy of Gnathology, Dr. Frederick Shaw of the Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group treats patients who have suffered from a variety of dental injuries. Among those injuries are intruded teeth, which are teeth that have been pushed back into their sockets. Treatment for these injuries varies widely depending on the situation, but surgery may be required for severe cases involving permanent teeth.


Intruded teeth can re-erupt on their own, particularly if they are baby teeth or the patient is young. In other cases, they can be repositioned with orthodontics. But if they are severely intruded or the surrounding structures have been damaged, surgery is necessary in order to reposition them and ensure the jaw bone heals properly. The repositioning will be done using forceps and the doctor’s fingers and the gums will be sutured afterward. A splint will be necessary for a few weeks to keep the affected tooth and those surrounding it in position, but the splint will typically be temporary and be removed after just one or two weeks along with the sutures. In cases involving permanent teeth, it will also be necessary for the patient to get a root canal.


Frederick Shaw, DDS, operates the Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group at 1500 W 38th Street, Suite 34, Austin, Texas, 78731. To schedule an appointment, call 512-451-7491 or visit Frederick Shaw DDS and fill out a contact form.


 

Friday, February 16, 2018

GERD and Sleep Apnea

When we repair and replace teeth at the Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, we are often fixing damage caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Acid reflux causes enamel erosion on the back teeth, making them more sensitive. In order to prevent it, patients need to understand how it has been linked to another disease with dental repercussions, obstructive sleep apnea.


The two diseases are often comorbid and mostly occur in people who are overweight. It is possible that one contributes to the other. When people suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, their bodies move their jaws in an attempt to keep their airways open. They may be doing this in response to the acid in their esophagi obstructing air flow. When people grind their teeth in their sleep, enamel is lost and they often wake up with pain in their teeth, as well as their jaw, head, and neck muscles. This pain may also cause them to get less or lower-quality sleep.


Recent studies have shown that common treatments for sleep apnea, such as CPAP machines, also reduce the frequency of acid reflux, leading scientists to think sleep apnea may cause the brain to send a signal which contributes to acid reflux. Other things people can do to reduce their risk of acid reflux include cutting back on dairy and fatty meats, as well as onions, garlic, alcohol, and chocolate, and avoiding large meals before bed.


Frederick Shaw, DDS, operates the Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group at 1500 W 38th Street, Suite 34, Austin, Texas, 78731. To schedule an appointment, call 512-451-7491 or visit Frederick Shaw DDS and fill out a contact form.


 

Wednesday, February 7, 2018

Thank You for Your Positive Reviews!

At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, our staff appreciates feedback because it teaches us how to improve as a team. Our staff would not only like to thank Oel L. for this 5-star review but would like to thank them for being an excellent patient. If you recently experienced exceptional service from our office, please let us know!  


“I just received a cleaning and I have to say I couldn't be happier. The staff was so warm and welcoming & the service was hands down the best. I will be returning and bring my family to the office.” –Oel L.


If you would like to leave a testimonial or are interested in learning more about the services we provide at the practice, visit FredrickShawDDS.com for more information.  To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491.

Saturday, February 3, 2018

Dental Implant Benefits

If you are lacking self-esteem due to missing teeth, Dr. Fredrick Shaw has several restorative treatment options for patients to choose from. The most common method is dental implants. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are an excellent option for people who have lost teeth from trauma or decay.


The dental implant process will be tailored to meet your needs. You will need to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shaw beforehand because you must have adequate tooth structure and healthy gums to support the implant. If you are missing a single tooth, one implant and a dental crown can restore the tooth to its natural function. If you are missing several teeth, an implant-supported bridge may be necessary. If you decide that implants are right for you, Dr. Shaw will work closely with you to ensure that you are comfortable with your decision.


If you have questions or concerns regarding dental implants or restorative dental services, please give us a call. To learn about other services we provide at our practice, visit www.fredrickshawdds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491.