Friendly Dental Tips and Guidance

Pericoronitis is the inflammation, swelling and infection of the gum tissue surrounding the wisdom teeth, which are located as the third and final set of molars that usually appear in your late teens or early 20s. It is most commonly found around the lower wisdom teeth. What causes pericoronitis? The primary cause for pericoronitis is accumulation of bacteria in and surrounding the gum tissue. Usually, the tooth is only partially exposed (soft tissue impaction) and has excess gum tissue that overlaps the tooth. Bacteria and food debris get trapped in the space between the tooth and the overlapping gingiva. What Does Pericoronitis Look Like? If you have inflamed, red, or swollen gums [...]

A person’s oral health is one of the most overlooked, even neglected areas of health. This is due to various reasons. One of those reasons may be due to the fact that it can be easy to forget about or not pay attention to your oral health because it’s more difficult to see on a daily basis. That is, until it’s often too late. Another reason is cost, as regular health insurance does not include much, if anything, for dental care. Many people also think that they don’t need to spend the money on a dentist when they can brush their teeth and floss at home. Unfortunately, this isn’t enough to maintain great oral health. Even with brushing your [...]

Gum Disease is a bacterial infection in, you guessed it, the gums. Without practicing proper dental care, it can affect anyone regardless of how healthy they are. You may think it’s just a simple infection of the tissues that support teeth, and that it’ll go away eventually. The reality is that gum disease won’t go away without any treatment or preventative measures, and will even get worse. Numerous studies have shown that untreated gum disease is linked to a variety of other health issues. Gum disease has been proved to increase the risks of many other health conditions, particularly cardiovascular issues. Considering that almost 50% of the American population has some stage of gum disease, and if you’re 65 [...]

When it comes to the health and well-being of your family, especially in matters of dental care, choosing the right provider is paramount. Keller, with its thriving community, offers a myriad of dental care providers. Yet, amidst the many options, one name stands out for its commitment to excellence, personalized care, and community trust: Pickett Family Dental. A Legacy of Trust in Keller For families residing in Keller and the surrounding regions, Pickett Family Dental has become synonymous with top-tier dental care. The practice’s reputation isn't merely built on advanced treatments but on the genuine care and understanding with which each patient is treated. From toddlers taking their first dental visit to seniors seeking advanced restorative treatments, [...]

Childhood is synonymous with endless activity, exploration, and occasional tumbles. Such was the case with a young patient who visited my clinic with a chipped front tooth. These accidents, while distressing, offer an opportunity to shed light on the significance of immediate and specialized dental care. Detailed Assessment: The First Step Once presented with a dental injury, a meticulous assessment is crucial. It's not just about visual observation; understanding the depth of damage, especially any potential harm to the tooth's nerve or pulp, determines the course of action. In our young patient's case, the integrity of the pulp was intact, prompting me to consider dental bonding as a potential solution. Delving into Dental Bonding Dental [...]

At Pickett Family Dental, we often witness the transformative power of a beautiful smile. Over the years, we’ve observed the increasing allure of cosmetic dentistry among our patients. While a picture-perfect grin that lights up Instagram feeds is one reason, the motivations for seeking cosmetic dental treatments run far deeper. Let's look at some of the deeper reasons such as confidence and self-image that causes people to improve their smil with cosmetic dentistry. Building Healthy Confidence One of the immediate benefits of cosmetic dentistry is the boost to self-esteem. A radiant smile can make all the difference, whether it's during a social gathering, a significant job interview, or those small everyday moments that matter. For many, treatments like teeth [...]

At your Keller, TX dentist, Dr. Pickett removes decayed portions of teeth due to cavities and then must fill those holes with dental fillings. While filling material can vary, the most common filling options are the composite filling or amalgam filling. Of the most common fillings we use today at Pickett Family Dental is the composite dental fillings that have a much more natural appearance. A composite filling is notably called a tooth colored filling, since the material used in the filling once placed can be matched to the same shade and color of your tooth. If the cavity isn't severe, we typically recommend this type of filling. However, if more of the tooth has to be removed during [...]

Every year, countless individuals undergo root canal procedures, making it one of the most common dental treatments. Its primary purpose is to save a tooth that's been compromised by damage or infection. Yet, despite its routine nature, the root canal remains ensnared in myths. One of the most prevailing myths is the purported extreme pain of the procedure. But is a root canal really as painful as popular culture makes it out to be? Let’s delve deeper into what a root canal entails and demystify its associated discomfort. What is a Root Canal Procedure? A tooth consists of multiple layers – the outermost enamel, the underlying dentin, and the innermost pulp. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective [...]

Tooth discoloration is a common issue that many people experience at different stages of life. In this blog post, we delve deeper into the reasons behind tooth discoloration and the solutions available to address this concern. Let’s unpack the different types of tooth discoloration, their causes, and how you can prevent them to maintain a radiant smile. Types of Tooth Discoloration Before diving into the preventative measures and solutions, it is essential to understand the types of tooth discoloration that one might encounter: Extrinsic Discoloration Definition: This type refers to stains on the outer layer of the tooth. Common Causes: Regular consumption of coffee, tea, and wine, or using tobacco products can lead to extrinsic discoloration. Intrinsic [...]

In every stage of life, from the first baby tooth to the care of adult teeth, maintaining oral health is a fundamental aspect of overall health. Finding a dental home that can cater to the diverse needs of every family member is a cornerstone in safeguarding your family’s smiles. This is where a family-friendly dentist like Dr. Pickett and our amazing team at Pickett Family Dental comes in, offering comprehensive dental solutions for people of all ages. Pediatric Dental Care The early years of a child’s life are a crucial stage to lay a strong foundation for lifelong oral health. Family-friendly dentists play a pivotal role during this period, weaving a nurturing approach into their practice to [...]