Panorex

A panorex is a machine that takes images of your mouth and can identify issues and structures in your mouth that a traditional x-ray cannot identify. The benefit to the panorex is that it allows our doctors at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group to see beyond your teeth and into the structural problems that exist in your mouth.

Besides identifying structural issues, our panorex machine also tells if you have any infections or asymmetry that needs to be fixed. The ability to identify issues that are small at the moment and correct them before they become serious issues is important.

To use the panorex machine, we have you sit in a chair with your chin on a small ledge. Once the machine is positioned it will do a 360 rotation of your head to get a full view of your teeth, head, sinuses, and bones. From there we can view any potential issues and go forward with any necessary treatment.

To learn more about the panorex all of the 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.

Soft Gum Graft

A soft tissue graft is needed when there is a lot of gum recession in an area of your mouth. The earlier you catch gum recession the more correctable it is with some changes in your dental hygiene routine. In the early stages we recommend that you brush longer, floss regularly, and use things such as mouthwash to strengthen your gums.

If your gums reach the point of no return and there is a greater risk for infection and bacteria, you will likely be sensitive to hot and cold foods which is a sign of gum recession.

To restore your gum level, our doctor at Fredrick Shaw, DDS performs a soft tissue graft. During the graft soft tissue is either removed from the roof of your mouth, or repositioning healthy gum tissue from your other teeth.

If you notice signs of potential gum recession, please give us a call at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group. It is important to catch gum recession before it becomes a major issue.

To learn more about soft tissue grafts and all of the 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.

Mouthwash

Mouthwash is a liquid that is used to help prevent cavities and acid from damaging your teeth. Dr. Frederick Shaw, DDs and his staff encourages patients to add mouthwash to their dental hygiene routine. Fluoride is a mineral in mouthwashes that makes your teeth stronger and is resistant to decay caused by acid and bacteria.

There are many different mouthwashes to choose from that are sold in stores and over-the-counter. We advise our patients to read the label to see which mouthwashes are designed to fight tooth decay and not just for better breath.

For you to benefit the most from mouthwash, we recommend that you use mouthwash at the same time every day. Don’t forget to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after using mouthwash to allow the fluoride to be effective.

Don’t forget, mouthwash shouldn’t be a replacement for brushing and flossing but rather an addition to your routine.

To learn more about mouthwash all of the 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.

Why You Should Avoid Drinking Soda

At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, we encourage our patients to drink plenty of water and avoid soda for your healthiest teeth. Soda is damaging to your teeth since the bacteria in your mouth feeds off of sugar to create acids.  When acid is created it feeds off your tooth enamel which is there to protect your teeth. Drinking soda puts you at a greater risk for tooth decay and other health problems.

When you consume soda, we advise our patients to use a straw if to limit the amount of sugar that is resting on your teeth. If possible, you should brush your teeth after drinking soda or rinse your mouth out with water to wash away the acid. The best time to brush your teeth and rinse is 20-30 minutes after drinking soda to remove the acid.

When possible, we encourage all of our patients to follow a healthy diet and consume milk that makes your teeth stronger and drink plenty of water as an alternative.

To learn more about the dangers of drinking soda and all of the 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.