Lauren Avery

If you’re dealing with a painful, infected, or severely damaged tooth, you’re probably facing two options: an El Paso root canal or a tooth extraction. At 915 Smile Studio, we know it’s not an easy choice, but it doesn’t have to be confusing.

We help patients weigh the pros and cons of each treatment based on comfort, cost, long-term health, and lifestyle. Below is a simple, side-by-side breakdown to help you understand your options and choose what’s best for your smile.

Root Canal 

This procedure removes the infected material from inside your tooth and then cleans out the empty canals left behind. Then, the inside of your tooth is sealed with a biocompatible material and topped with a restoration like a dental crown. 

What Is the Pain Like?

Despite its reputation, the root canal is performed with local anesthetic, with the option to use dental sedation. That means you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. 

Discomfort afterward is usually manageable with at-home remedies like over-the-counter pain medication and cold compresses placed on the outside of your cheek. You may even feel instant relief from some symptoms, like temperature sensitivity. Any pain should go away in one to two days. 

Treatment and Healing Time

Most root canals are completed in one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of the procedure. 

After the procedure, you’ll likely feel like yourself again within 24 to 48 hours. 

Tooth Preservation

Yes, in fact, this is the selling point of an El Paso root canal. This procedure’s whole goal is to help you keep your tooth by treating the infection inside. 

Appearance and Chewing Function

Thanks to the crown placed on top, your treated tooth should look and feel like its neighbors. You also shouldn’t feel any more pain or sensitivity while biting or chewing. After all, you’ll no longer have a nerve inside that tooth!

Long-Term Impact

Teeth treated with this endodontic procedure can last indefinitely, although the restoration on top may need periodic replacement due to wear and tear. Keeping your natural tooth also helps prevent bone loss and misalignment caused by shifting teeth. 

Is Follow-Up Necessary?

Other than capping off the procedure with a dental crown, you will be good to go after your El Paso root canal treatment. 

Tooth Extraction

After numbing the area and potentially using sedation, we gently remove the entire tooth from its socket. 

What Is the Pain Like?

Thanks to anesthesia and sedation, you should only feel pressure and a pulling sensation during the procedure. 

Once we’re done, you may experience some swelling and soreness for a few days. If it’s a complex tooth extraction, you may have stitches and a slightly longer recovery. 

Treatment and Healing Time

We can pull a tooth in just one visit, with the potential for follow-up visits to check on your progress.

The healing time is longer than for a root canal, and you may need several days to a week to feel back to normal. The actual healing of your underlying bone may take longer. 

Tooth Preservation

Obviously, this option doesn’t preserve your natural tooth. Instead, you will need a replacement. 

Appearance and Chewing Function

Tooth removal leaves a gap in your smile that could be especially noticeable if it’s a tooth that’s visible when you smile. That gap will remain unless you opt for a tooth replacement. 

Tooth loss in any form can affect your ability to chew, particularly if you lost a molar. Over time, you may also experience additional chewing complications. 

Long-Term Impact

Your teeth essentially hold each other in position, so when you remove a tooth, the others can start to shift into the empty space. 

Your tooth roots also stimulate your jawbone, keeping it strong. When a tooth is pulled, the bone in that area can begin to deteriorate.

Is Follow-Up Necessary?

To avoid complications like bone loss and bite misalignment, our dentist recommends getting a replacement such as a tooth bridge, dentures, or a dental implant. Implants are the only option that actually replaces your lost tooth root, providing bone stimulation.  

So, Which Option Is Better?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the choice between an El Paso root canal and a tooth extraction. That’s why we look at every case personally at 915 Smile Studio. In general:

• Root Canal: This may be right for you if you want to preserve your natural tooth, avoid future jawbone loss, and maintain full chewing function.
• Tooth Removal: We might recommend this if the tooth is beyond saving or has fractured below the gum line.

What Happens If You Do Nothing?

Whether you go with a root canal or extraction, what you shouldn’t do is ignore the problem. An infected or damaged tooth won’t heal on its own. It can lead to intense pain, spread infection, and even affect your overall health.

Let’s Talk About Your Best Option

Still not sure if you should get an El Paso root canal or a tooth extraction? That’s exactly what we’re here for. Schedule a consultation at 915 Smile Studio and let us help you understand your tooth-saving (or removing) options in a way that makes sense for both your smile and your wallet.

Summer is here, and that means road trips, beach days, festivals, and spontaneous getaways. If you’re currently straightening your smile with Invisalign®, congratulations! You’re well on your way to achieving the smile of your dreams. However, staying on track with your treatment during busy summer days requires some planning.

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are removable and discreet, giving you the flexibility to enjoy life’s moments. However, with that freedom comes responsibility. To help you keep your aligners clean, safe, and effective while you’re out and about, we’ve put together the ultimate Invisalign Summer Survival Kit checklist.

1. Travel Toothbrush & Travel-Size Toothpaste

After every meal or snack, it’s essential to brush your teeth before reinserting your aligners. Skipping this step can lead to bacterial buildup, discoloration of your aligners, and even bad breath.

Keep a compact toothbrush and a tube of fluoride toothpaste in your bag at all times. Bonus tip: Choose a toothpaste that’s formulated for sensitivity if you’re still a bit tender from your last tray switch.

2. Invisalign Case (Always!)

Your aligner case is your best friend this summer. Never wrap your aligners in a napkin or toss them into your beach bag. This is how trays end up lost or damaged. Most Invisalign providers give you a case when you begin treatment, but if you’ve misplaced yours, it’s worth investing in a spare. Keep one in your purse, backpack, or car glove box so you’re never tempted to leave your aligners unprotected.

3. Retainer Cleaning Wipes or Spray

Let’s face it. Sometimes, brushing your aligners just isn’t an option when you’re on the move. Retainer cleaning wipes or spray are lifesavers when you’re at a festival, on a hike, or lounging at the beach. These quick-clean solutions help reduce odor and keep your aligners clear until you can give them a proper clean at home. Look for alcohol-free formulas to prevent damage to the plastic.

4. Floss Picks or Dental Floss

Food particles trapped between your teeth can compromise your oral hygiene and your Invisalign results. Flossing is extra important during treatment, and even more so when you’re snacking more often while traveling. Carry floss picks or a small container of floss to clean between meals quickly. Your smile will thank you!

5. Reusable Water Bottle

Water is essential for staying hydrated during the heat, but it’s also key for your oral health. Dry mouth can lead to plaque buildup and discomfort with your aligners. Keep a reusable water bottle handy and sip often. Also, avoid sugary or acidic drinks while wearing your aligners, and always remove them if you plan to drink anything other than water.

6. Lip Balm with SPF

This one’s easy to overlook! Wearing aligners can sometimes cause your lips to feel dry, and exposure to the sun can exacerbate the issue. A lip balm with SPF will protect your lips and keep you comfortable while you smile throughout the day.

Summer-Ready, Smile-Ready

With just a little prep, you can enjoy every moment of your summer without skipping a beat in your Invisalign journey. Keep these essentials with you, and you’ll be ready to flash that confident smile wherever your adventures take you.

Ready to start your Invisalign journey this summer? Find Invisalign in El Paso at 915 Smile Studio and enjoy the freedom of a straighter smile without the hassle of traditional braces. Contact us today to schedule your Invisalign consultation!

For many, the spookiest noise at night isn’t a creaky floorboard or the howling wind but the unsettling grinding of teeth or labored breathing. 915 Smile Studio offers dental treatments that can banish nightmares with solutions like sleep apnea treatment and nightguards in El Paso. Our dental care can keep the things that go bump in the night at bay.

El Paso Nightguards: Your Shield Against Nocturnal Grinding

For many, bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, is a silent menace that manifests while they sleep. It not only disturbs restful slumber but also wreaks havoc on dental health. As the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research points out, you might have no idea you’re doing it—at least, not until you crack a tooth.

Signs that bruxism is your nighttime boogeyman include:

• Jaw Issues: Soreness or stiffness in your jaw and jaw muscles
• Pain: Jaw and tooth pain, headaches, or earaches
• Teeth Problems: Worn enamel, tooth sensitivity, or damage
• Poor Sleep: Waking up feeling tired or not well-rested

915 Smile Studio offers protective nightguards for El Paso bruxism sufferers. These custom-fitted oral appliances are crafted from durable materials and designed to withstand the pressure exerted during bruxism episodes. 

Sleep Apnea Treatment: Conquering This Nighttime Monster

You might be the thing that goes bump in the night. Sleep apnea leads to interrupted breathing, which causes you to wake up. You may not realize you’re waking up, but you will feel the effects: 

• Dry Mouth
• Morning Headache
• Concentration Trouble
• Daytime Sleepiness

Your partner may also report snoring or gasping for breath during the night. Long-term sleep apnea is linked to serious health complications like cardiovascular issues. 

Like with bruxism, sleep apnea sufferers can use oral appliances. Our El Paso nightguards for sleep apnea gently move the lower jaw and tongue forward, preventing the collapse of your airway for better breathing and better sleep. 

Orthodontic Treatments: No More Ghoulish Grins

Misaligned teeth or bad bites can contribute to sleep problems, including bruxism and sleep apnea. Orthodontic care addresses these issues, ensuring sweet dreams instead of dental nightmares.

Our orthodontic treatments help distribute chewing forces evenly. This reduces your risk of developing bruxism and alleviates pressure on your jaw joints. A properly aligned bite can also help with airway function. 915 Smile Studio offers both Invisalign® and traditional braces. If you do suffer from teeth grinding, we can create an El Paso nightguard you can wear during treatment. 

Oral Hygiene: Tips for Frighteningly Good Sleep and Health

While dental treatments like oral appliances and nightguards in El Paso offer targeted solutions, you need to do your part by maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Make sure you:

• Brush and Floss Regularly: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once.
• Use Fluoride Products: Our office can recommend products that fit your needs.
• Schedule Checkups and Cleanings: Come see us every six months.
• Ask About Preventative Care: We offer fluoride treatments and dental sealants.
• Snack Mindfully: Avoid caffeine and sugar, as they can affect sleep and oral health.
• Stay Hydrated: Water prevents dry mouth and rinses away cavity-causing bacteria.

No More Night Frights with El Paso Nightguards and More

Sleep apnea treatment, orthodontic care, and nightguards in El Paso can help you banish dental boogeymen this October. Contact 915 Smile Studio today to set up a consultation.

Many patients experience anxiety and fear related to dental care, making it hard to focus on the benefits of the treatment itself, which is where our El Paso sedation dentists step in. While 915 Smile Studio offers different types of dental sedation, many need help understanding the major differences between nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation. In this post, Dr. Tracy Le and Dr. Quoc Dang demystify the nitrous oxide versus oral conscious sedation debate so that you can make an informed decision about whether nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or a combination of both types of dental sedation will work best for your needs.

Method of Administration

Whether you’re a seasoned patient or a first-timer, our El Paso sedation dentists can put your mind at ease. With two different methods of sedation available, we can tailor your treatment to suit your needs.

• Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is inhaled through a comfortable mask placed over your nose.
• Oral conscious sedation is administered by taking a pill before treatment. The medication will slowly begin to work its way through your bloodstream, calming your nerves and ensuring a stress-free experience.

Intensity of Sedation

If you’re considering nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation during your next dental appointment, it’s essential to consider how the results can affect your body.

• Nitrous oxide is an excellent option for those who want to feel relaxed and comfortable during their procedure without feeling sleepy or groggy afterward. In fact, most patients can go back to school or work after experiencing laughing gas.
• Oral conscious sedation is a deeper form of sedation. Our El Paso sedation dentists might recommend this type of sedation to patients who have more severe anxiety or who are undergoing invasive dental procedures. With oral conscious sedation, you might feel groggy and tired. Plus, you may forget most or all of what happened during your appointment.

Side Effects

While it’s essential to understand how sedation works and how it can affect you, it’s also important to consider how you’ll feel after treatments and how long the side effects will linger.

• Nitrous oxide might be the right option for you if you’re looking for something that wears off quickly. After about 5 minutes, the effects of the gas will fade, and you’ll be able to drive yourself home and get back to your routine. However, you may experience some mild side effects like a headache, nausea, or confusion, but don’t worry; these will dissipate quickly.
• Oral sedation, on the other hand, lasts longer (about 4-6 hours). You’ll need to arrange for someone to drive you to and from our office, and you’ll want to plan on taking it easy after your appointment. While oral sedation can be a bit more intense in terms of side effects, like headaches or disorientation, our El Paso sedation dentists still believe it’s an excellent option for those who need it.

Our El Paso Sedation Dentists Can Help You Decide

Ultimately, the choice between nitrous oxide and oral sedation comes down to the individual patient and their unique needs. Whatever option you choose, our dedicated El Paso sedation dentists will work with you to ensure your next dental appointment is comfortable. Reach out to 915 Smile Studio today if you would like to know more information about what type of sedation dentistry could work best for you!