Tooth Decay

Tooth decay comes in the form of cavities, which occur when specific types of bacteria produce acid that destroys tooth enamel and the underlying dentin. Tooth decay can be a problem for children, teenagers, and adults. When we consume food and beverages that contain sugar, we increase our risk of developing cavities if we don’t adequately brush away the plaque that causes them. To keep your teeth healthy and free of decay, it’s important to maintain a rigorous oral care routine while visiting Dr. Fredrick Shaw twice a year for routine cleanings.  

Cavities are most common among children, but they can develop in adults as well. If a patient doesn’t consistently brush and floss his or her teeth, the stickiness of plaque will produce harmful acids that attack and wear down tooth enamel. Once enamel has been destroyed, it will not fix itself and you may need dental bonding or fillings to repair it. To prevent decay at home, brush with fluoride toothpaste as fluoride helps to strengthen the teeth.

If you have questions or concerns about tooth decay, please give us a call. To learn more about 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.

Teeth Whitening Advantages

Brushing and flossing on a daily basis will assist in keeping your teeth white, but sometimes they need an extra push. Dr. Fredrick Shaw offers teeth whitening services to patients who desire a whiter smile in a flash. Over time, our teeth may appear lackluster due to foods and beverages we consume and lifestyle factors such as smoking. If you’re considering whitening your teeth professionally, schedule a consultation with us.

Teeth will change color if we consume too much coffee, wine, and iced tea because the pigments in these beverages attach themselves to tooth enamel. Additionally, tobacco use will create stubborn stains that are hard to eliminate. Teeth-whitening is a simple process but not all whitening methods work on all teeth. To assure that whitening is right for you, it’s best to discuss the procedure with Dr. Shaw. If you decide that you are a candidate for whitening, the procedure may be completed in-office or with take-home trays.

If you have questions or concerns about teeth whitening, please give us a call. To learn more about 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.

Thank You For Your 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 Nikki for this 5-star review, but would like to thank her for being an excellent patient. If you recently experienced exceptional service from our office, please let us know!  

“After being in miserable pain for weeks and my general dentist being unable to help me, I finally decided to reach out and find another doctor. When I got to Dr. Shaw's office his staff was extremely accommodating to my schedule, they were very professional, and I felt at ease the moment I walked through the door. Dr. Shaw was very lighthearted and easy to talk to. Jennifer and Ashley were the best assistants I could have asked for. Not only could you tell they enjoyed their jobs but you could tell they wanted to make me as comfortable as possible. I would highly recommend this office to all of my family and friends because I know they would get the best care possible.” –Nikki

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.

Sleep Apnea and the Heart

Sleep apnea is not only a serious medical condition, but left untreated it can lead to a plethora of other health issues and is dangerous for the heart.  A patient with sleep apnea does not breathe properly during sleep, resulting in low oxygen levels throughout the entire body. Breathing supplies lungs with oxygen but also the rest of the body.  When there is a lack of oxygen, the part of the heart responsible for moving oxygenated blood to the organs and extremities is forced to work extra hard.  This can cause an enlarged heart and eventually heart failure.

Those living with untreated sleep apnea are at a higher risk of developing irregular heartbeats, and also have a higher risk for a stroke and heart attack.  Men with untreated sleep apnea are actually living with double the risk for a stroke.  If you have yet to find a solution for sleep apnea, please visit Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group for a consultation.

To learn more about sleep apnea and the treatments we offer, visit FrederickShawDDS.com for more information.  To schedule an appointment with Dr. Frederick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491.

Athletes and Mouthguards

Mouthguards, also known as mouth protectors can be used for numerous reasons, but the most common is to protect athletes from dental trauma. Mouthguards help cushion a blow to the face and minimize the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face, or jaw. Dr. Fredrick Shaw DDS can design a custom-mouthguard for ultimate comfort.  

Custom mouthguards are made from exact and precise models of an individual’s own teeth. They are also made of resilient and tear resistant materials ensuring a proper fit. A properly fitted mouthguard absolutely must be protective, comfortable, resilient, tear resistant, odorless, tasteless, and allow room for you to breathe. Because our custom-fitted mouthguards are made for your mouth and your mouth only, they are more reliable than over-the-counter mouthguards.

If you have questions or concerns about mouthguards or oral appliances, please give us a call. To learn more about our sedation options and all 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.