Reasons for a Root Canal

Oral surgery can be frightful for any patient, especially if they hear the words, “root canal.” A root canal becomes necessary when the pulp, the soft tissue inside the root canal, becomes inflamed or infected. This can be caused by a variety of reasons – deep decay, numerous dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip that lies within the tooth. If you do end up needing a root canal, Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group would like you to know what to expect.

If you’re questioning whether or not you’ll eventually need endodontic treatment, signs to look for include pain, extended sensitivity to hot and cold beverages, and swelling of the tooth and gums. With all of the advances in dental technology, undergoing a root canal procedure is less painful than living with a decayed tooth.  To save your tooth, Dr. Charles Crouch will remove the inflamed or infected pulp of the tooth and carefully clean and shape the inside of the root canal. He will then fill and seal the space. This procedure is usually completed within two appointments. During your second appointment, the doctor will place a crown to fully restore the tooth back to its natural function.

If you have questions or concerns about the root canal procedure, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.summitdentalgroupllc.com for more information. To schedule, an appointment with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group call our Fort Worth, TX, office at 817-294-8505, or our Grand Prairie, TX, office at 972-695-2310.

Preventing and Treating Dry Sockets

Following tooth extractions, the biggest risk facing a patient is a dry socket. We at Summit Dental Group take steps to prevent this, including fully informing our clients about what to do during their recoveries. But dry sockets are still possible, particularly following complicated extractions which required suturing, so we want our patients to know when to seek help.

It is very important that patients inform us of all their medications. Clot formation is necessary to prevent dryness and infection, and the clot will need to remain in place for most of the healing process. Actions such as sipping through a straw and smoking pose an unacceptable risk of dislodging the clot.

If a clot is dislodged, the socket will probably dry out within two days. If patients don’t see that the clot is missing, they will know it by their intense pain. This should be treated as an emergency. We will clean the socket and apply medicated wound dressing to the surgical site. This dressing will need to be changed every few days, which will allow us to more closely monitor the patient’s recovery. We will also provide the patient with necessary medication.

Dr. Charles W. Crouch and Dr. Hai Nguyen operate Summit Dental Group at two locations. For the office at 4769 Barwick Dr, Fort Worth, Texas, 76132, call 817-294-8505. For the office at 838 South Carrier Pkwy, Grand Prairie, Texas, 75051, call 972-695-2310. You can also visit SummitDentalGroupLLC.com and request an appointment. We are open six days a week to serve you.

 

Getting Dentures

The Summit Dental Group offers our patients the latest in prosthetic technology, including dentures. While we always desire to save teeth when possible, there are times when dentures are necessary because it is inadvisable for patients to undergo the implant process. Placing dentures requires teeth to be extracted, so we want our patients to understand that the finished product is a worthwhile trade-off.

Partial dentures replace some teeth but require the surrounding teeth to be reshaped. They can be thought of as removable bridges. Full dentures replace all the teeth in a jaw. Prior to extraction, an impression will be made of the patient’s mouth which will be used as the basis for immediate dentures. When the healing is complete, the denture will need to be relined. Permanent full dentures will also have to be adjusted throughout the patient’s life, but they will substantially improve the patient’s ability to chew and speak as well as their social confidence.

Dr. Charles W. Crouch and Dr. Hai Nguyen operate Summit Dental Group at two locations. For the office at 4769 Barwick Dr, Fort Worth, Texas, 76132, call 817-294-8505. For the office at 838 South Carrier Pkwy, Grand Prairie, Texas, 75051, call 972-695-2310. You can also visit SummitDentalGroupLLC.com and request an appointment. We are open six days a week to serve you.

 

Gum Disease: Periodontitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and is treatable as well as preventable. Periodontitis, however, is a more long-term problem as it can lead to serious health conditions such as increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group wants patients to understand that the mouth is the window to overall health. Like gingivitis, the most common cause of periodontitis is poor oral hygiene and lack of professional cleanings. This is why it’s important to visit us for professional cleanings twice a year, to improve your chances of preventing or treating this problem.

While gingivitis refers to inflammation of the gums, periodontitis causes the gum and bone to pull away from the teeth, forming large pockets. When bacteria enter these spaces, the area can become infected. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth decay and eventually tooth loss. Gingivitis is reversible, but periodontitis is not because it damages tooth structure. If you notice receding gums, gums that hurt when they are touched or bleeding when brushing or flossing, schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible so we can stop the progression of the disease.

If you have questions or concerns regarding gum disease, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.summitdentalgroupllc.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group call our Fort Worth, TX, office at 817-294-8505, or our Grand Prairie, TX, office at 972-695-2310.

Gum Disease: Gingivitis

When you brush your teeth, are you seeing red? If you notice blood in the sink after brushing, this is typically the first sign of periodontal disease, also known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, usually caused by a bacterial infection. This bacterial infection may develop due to lack of oral hygiene. Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible, but Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group would rather you take preventive measures to avoid this condition.

Factors that increase your chances of developing gingivitis include smoking tobacco, having diabetes, having a crooked smile, and or broken fillings. Gingivitis typically occurs when plaque left on your teeth after consuming food and beverages isn’t washed away by brushing and flossing. If you notice gums that are red, tender, swollen or they bleed when you brush your teeth, schedule a professional cleaning with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group so that he can help you step up your oral hygiene routine.

If you have questions or concerns regarding gum disease, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.summitdentalgroupllc.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group call our Fort Worth, TX, office at 817-294-8505, or our Grand Prairie, TX, office at 972-695-2310.

Banish Bad Breath

Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be embarrassing and in some cases may even cause anxiety. It’s no wonder you may stock up on mints, gum, and other products designed to fight bad breath. Many of these products, however, are only a temporary solution to a deeper problem. In many cases, you can improve bad breath with proper dental hygiene. To do so, it’s important to schedule professional cleanings and regular dental checkups with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group two to four times a year.

If you don’t brush and floss your teeth daily, food particles can remain in your mouth, promoting bacterial growth between teeth, around the gums, and on the tongue. This causes bad breath. Bad breath odors vary, depending on the source or the underlying cause. Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth may be a warning sign of gum disease. If you have bad breath, review your oral hygiene habits. If your bad breath persists after making changes, visit us as soon as possible to discuss your treatment options.

Drs. Charles W. Crouch and Hai Nguyen operate Summit Dental Group at two locations. For the office at 4769 Barwick Dr, Fort Worth, Texas, 76132, call 817-294-8505. For the office at 838 South Carrier Pkwy, Grand Prairie, Texas, 75051, call 972-695-2310. You can also visit SummitDentalGroupLLC.com and request an appointment.

 

Inflammation around Implants

We’re proud to say at Summit Dental Group that dental implants are one of the most successful types of surgery and ours are no exception. A properly placed implant can keep a patient’s mouth healthy and beautiful for decades. However, as is true for real teeth, implants can fail as well.

The most common reason an old implant would need to be extracted is inflammation around it due to an infection. Our technical term for this is peri-implantitis. Most implants are made from a titanium-nickel alloy because titanium is a metal which is known to fuse very well with bone. The downside is that the alloy can be corroded by the same acids as normal tooth roots. If the connection between bone and metal dissolves, the implant will come lose and have to be removed.

The best ways to prevent peri-implantitis are to maintain daily oral hygiene and to receive a professional cleaning every three to six months. People who suffer from dry mouth are at heightened risk of gum disease and need to keep an especially close watch for signs of inflammation. A deep cleaning could save an implant.

Dr. Charles W. Crouch and Dr. Hai Nguyen operate Summit Dental Group at two locations. For the office at 4769 Barwick Dr, Fort Worth, Texas, 76132, call 817-294-8505. For the office at 838 South Carrier Pkwy, Grand Prairie, Texas, 75051, call 972-695-2310. You can also visit SummitDentalGroupLLC.com and request an appointment.

 

Artificial Crowns to Repair Teeth

The Summit Dental Group provides high-quality crowns to repair our patients’ teeth. One of the most important devices we have to repair a smile, not to mention a bite, is the porcelain crown. While crowns can be made from many materials, we prefer porcelain for its resilience and natural appearance.

The crown is the part of the tooth which is visible above the gum line. A crown can be placed on top of an implant when a tooth is missing entirely, but it can also be placed over a reshaped natural tooth. The reasons why this may be necessary are many, but it’s usually because a tooth’s old fillings are coming loose, the patient dislikes the fillings’ silver color, or the tooth is cracked and there is no other way to repair it. What’s left of the natural tooth will be reshaped into a base, which is a short cylinder, and an impression will be taken of the patient’s tooth so that a very close replica can be made. The impression is then sent to a dental laboratory where porcelain is milled into a shape exactly the right size for the patient. In the meantime, the patient will wear a temporary crown. When the new crown is ready, it can be cemented in. Patients will care for their crown in the same way they do for natural ones.

Drs. Charles W. Crouch and Hai Nguyen operate Summit Dental Group at two locations. For the office at 4769 Barwick Dr, Fort Worth, Texas, 76132, call 817-294-8505. For the office at 838 South Carrier Pkwy, Grand Prairie, Texas, 75051, call 972-695-2310. You can also visit SummitDentalGroupLLC.com and request an appointment. We are open six days a week to serve you.

Cavity Causes and Treatment

Cavities are also known as caries, or tooth decay, and are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of your teeth that develop into tiny holes. These tiny openings are caused by a combination of factors, including bacteria in your mouth, frequent snacking, sipping sugary drinks, and not cleaning your teeth properly. Cavities can be a problem for children, teens, and adults. When they arise, Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group can provide treatment for the whole family.

While indulging in treats that are bad for your tooth enamel, you may not be aware that a cavity is forming. This is why it’s important to have routine dental checkups and cleanings, even when your mouth feels healthy. The stickiness of the plaque keeps acids in contact with your teeth and over time causes the enamel to break down. Avoiding the dentist causes these acids to make their way through the enamel, and the inside parts of your tooth can begin to decay.

If you have a toothache, don’t let it go untreated, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.summitdentalgroupllc.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group call our Fort Worth, TX, office at 817-294-8505, or our Grand Prairie, TX, office at 972-695-2310. 

Disadvantages of Missing Teeth

Although tooth loss is typically associated with the elderly, missing teeth can occur in adults for a variety of reasons. Whether you’ve lost a tooth to decay, or injury, tooth loss can rob you of much more than the ability to chew and properly digest food. It can have serious social, psychological and emotional consequences as well. At Summit Dental Group, Dr. Charles Crouch doesn’t want you to experience the disadvantages of a toothless grin. This is why we offer a wide variety of restorative and cosmetic options to give you the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

The most obvious effect of missing teeth is aesthetic. When a tooth is lost, the facial muscles begin to sag, making you appear older than you are. Additionally, missing teeth will make it more difficult to chew and may even affect the way you speak. The more teeth a person is missing, the more challenging the task to replace them can become. It can also be costly. It is important to have regular dental visits with us to prolong the life of your teeth. 

To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.summitdentalgroupllc.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group call our Fort Worth, TX, office at 817-294-8505, or our Grand Prairie, TX, office at 972-695-2310. 

Common Reasons for Tooth Extractions

At Summit Dental Group, Dr. Charles Crouch wants you to keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime. However, that is not always the case. You’re likely familiar with wisdom teeth extractions, but sometimes teeth can affect your bite or can be damaged or broken by decay. If a tooth has been broken or damaged by decay, we may recommend fixing it with a filling, crown or different method of treatment. Other reasons for tooth extractions include the following:

• Some people have extra teeth that block other teeth from coming in.


• Sometimes baby teeth don’t fall out in time to allow permanent teeth to come in.


• People getting braces may need teeth extracted to create room for teeth that are being moved into place.


• Some teeth may need to be extracted if they have the potential of becoming infected.

Before Dr. Crouch considers extraction, every effort will be made to repair and restore your tooth without the procedure first. However, sometimes tooth extractions are unavoidable.

If you suspect you have a tooth that may need to be extracted, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.summitdentalgroupllc.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group call our Fort Worth, TX, office at 817-294-8505, or our Grand Prairie, TX, office at 972-695-2310.

Common Dental Emergencies

At Summit Dental Group, our staff understands that accidents happen. Knowing what to do when one occurs can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. If you or your child experience some sort of trauma to your mouth for whatever reason, please give us a call immediately. Meanwhile, in the midst of a dental emergency, utilize these tips to ensure a smooth recovery. 

• 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 experience a dental emergency, please give us a call immediately. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.summitdentalgroupllc.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group call our Fort Worth, TX, office at 817-294-8505, or our Grand Prairie, TX, office at 972-695-2310. 

Basics of Bruxism

Do you ever wake up from a night’s sleep with sore teeth and jaws? You could be grinding your teeth. The medical term for occasional teeth grinding is called bruxism and although this condition does not usually cause harm, when teeth grinding occurs on a regular basis the teeth can be damaged and other oral health complications can arise. At Summit Dental Group, we can develop an individualized treatment plan to help alleviate this condition.

Stress, anxiety, smoking, heavy alcohol, caffeine, depression and sleep disorders are all possible causes of teeth grinding. Treatment for teeth grinding depends on the cause. In some cases, chronic teeth grinding can result in fracturing, loosening or loss of teeth. Patients may benefit from a mouth guard to stabilize the jaw and prevent tooth damage that is caused by grinding.

If you wake up with jaw pain or notice yourself grinding your teeth, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.summitdentalgroupllc.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group call our Fort Worth, TX, office at 817-294-8505, or our Grand Prairie, TX, office at 972-695-2310. 

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a type of dentistry that 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, Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group offers a wide variety of treatment options to restore your confidence.

From subtle changes to major repairs, our dentists can perform a variety of procedures to improve your smile. These procedures include, but are not limited to, whitening, dental bonding, dental crowns, veneers, and reshaping and contouring. These improvements are not always just cosmetic. Many of these treatments can improve oral problems as well, such as your bite. If you’re not sure which procedure may be right for you, we are here to answer all of your questions. The condition of your teeth and your desired result often indicate the best procedure for you.

To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.summitdentalgroupllc.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group call our Fort Worth, TX, office at 817-294-8505, or our Grand Prairie, TX, office at 972-695-2310.

Sleep Apnea and Obesity

If you suffer from obesity, you put yourself at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea. There are two different types of sleep apnea, but the one that is most common in obese individuals is obstructive sleep apnea.  This occurs when breathing repeatedly stops for 10 or more seconds during sleep.  If your partner is disturbed by your loud snoring or has told you that you stop breathing in the middle of the night, it might be time to visit with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group for a consultation.

Obstructive sleep apnea is more common in obese individuals because it is believed that the airway of the obese person becomes obstructed by large tonsils, enlarged tongue, and increased fat in the neck, all pressing on the airway when the throat muscles are relaxed during sleep. Studies show that men with a neck circumference of 17 inches or greater, and women with a neck circumference of 16 inches or greater are more likely to develop sleep apnea. Regardless of age (and weight), untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious complications, including cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure.

If you suspect you have a tooth that may need to be extracted, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.summitdentalgroupllc.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group call our Fort Worth, TX, office at 817-294-8505, or our Grand Prairie, TX, office at 972-695-2310.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Hundreds of different types of bacteria live on our teeth, gums, tongue and other crevices in the mouth. Some are helpful, but some can be harmful such as those that play a role in the tooth decay process. At Summit Dental Group, we want our patients to know that good oral and dental hygiene can help you avoid cavities and tooth decay.

When a tooth is exposed to acid frequently – for example, if you frequently eat foods or drinks containing sugar and starches – the repeated cycles of acid attacks cause the enamel to continue to lose minerals. This will cause a white spot to appear if the minerals have been lost. When this happens, this is a sign of early decay.

You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.


• Clean between your teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.


• Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.


• Visit us for professional cleanings and oral examination.

If you need assistance maintaining your oral hygiene routine, give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.summitdentalgroupllc.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles Crouch of Summit Dental Group call our Fort Worth, TX, office at 817-294-8505.