General Dentistry

Care That Supports Your Smile for Life

Where General Dentistry Feels Familiar

Dental care should fit easily into your life. At our practice, we focus on care that feels natural and straightforward, from regular checkups to restorative treatments when you need them. We’re here to help you keep your smile healthy, comfortable, and confident.

Small steps today prevent bigger problems tomorrow. Cleanings, exams, and screenings keep your teeth strong, your gums healthy, and your care affordable. Prevention is the best investment in your smile.

When infection strikes, relief shouldn’t be scary. Our gentle approach to root canal therapy eases discomfort, saves your natural tooth, and helps you heal comfortably so you can get back to smiling pain-free.

If you clench or grind your teeth, a custom night guard can protect your smile while you sleep. These comfortable, tailor-made guards help prevent wear, jaw pain, and broken teeth, so you can rest easy.

Sometimes the best way forward is to start fresh. When a tooth can’t be saved, we remove it carefully and with compassion. Our team will guide you through what to expect and how to recover smoothly.

When pain hits suddenly, you shouldn’t have to wait. We set aside time for urgent visits and treat dental emergencies quickly and gently, helping you get relief, peace of mind, and clarity on your next steps.

Healthy habits start young. We make visits fun and positive for kids of all ages, teaching them to care for their smiles in a space that feels safe, welcoming, and full of warmth and encouragement.

Night Guards

Guard Your Smile

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If you are experiencing chronic headaches or jaw pain from involuntary night-time teeth clenching, let Dr. Richardson at Highland Village Smile Studio help you with a nightguard. A night guard is a thin, transparent device that is worn over the biting surface of your teeth while you sleep to prevent contact between the upper and lower teeth.

The Night Guard Fitting Process

• Impressions are taken of your upper and lower teeth to confirm an accurate fit
• Using your impressions as a mold, the night guard is crafted out of strong, durable plastic
• When the guard is finished, it is properly fitted to your mouth
• Simply wear the guard while you sleep every night

Benefits of a Night Guard

• Prevents migraine pain
• Prevents tension-type headache pain
• Can help prevent jaw disorders by relieving pressure
• Prevents teeth grinding and the development of TMD (temporomandibular disorder)
• Prevents loss of tooth structure and worn down teeth

Don’t live with painful headaches or jaw muscles. Contact our friendly dentist and team at 972-317-1406 today and learn how a night guard for teeth grinding in Highland Village, Texas, can help you.

Emergency Dental Care

Pain Doesn’t Wait – Neither Should You

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Quick, Emergency Care to Stop Pain and Protect Your Smile

Dental emergencies rarely happen at convenient times. From fractured teeth to bitten tongues to abscesses, Dr. Richardson and our friendly team are here to help! Call us today for compassionate emergency dental care in Highland Village, TX, and find relief from pain or discomfort before things get worse.

Get Emergency Dental Care If You Have:

  • Severe, lasting toothaches or other tooth pain
  • Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
  • A partially knocked-out (extruded) tooth
  • Knocked-out teeth
  • Damage to the soft tissues of your mouth, such as your tongue, cheeks, lips, or gums
  • A lost or broken dental restoration, like fillings or crowns
  • An abscess

If you are suffering from any of these issues, or you’re unsure if your situation counts as a dental emergency, please contact us ASAP.

Our team will also be able to provide you with instructions on how to take care of your mouth and manage pain until you can see Dr. Richardson.

Important note: If you’ve experienced trauma to your head or neck, visit your nearest emergency room or general physician before visiting the dentist, even if your teeth are also damaged.

We Respond Quickly

Dr. Richardson and our dedicated team provide swift and efficient dental emergency services. No matter the hour, we are committed to giving you prompt attention to alleviate your pain and discomfort and avoid further complications.

Even if you’re unsure, contact us. We can help.

Our Emergency Dental Services

Our Emergency Dentist

Dr. Nicole Richardson brings with her years of experience handling dental emergencies and is known for her gentle manner and commitment to patient comfort.

She will provide immediate relief from dental pain and discomfort and then take you through a long-term treatment plan to prevent complications or recurring issues.

We Give You All The Information

Dental emergencies can be nerve-racking, especially regarding costs, treatment procedures, or the fear of the unknown. We understand these concerns and are committed to transparency and communication.

We will thoroughly explain your condition, treatment options, and their respective costs.

We are upfront about our prices and work with various insurance and financial providers to make your care affordable. Our team is always available to answer your questions and ease your concerns.

Here To Help When You Need It Most

We provide compassionate and prompt emergency dental care in Highland Village, TX. Don’t wait for things to get worse. Contact us at Highland Village Smile Studio immediately. Our team will provide the guidance you need over the phone and prepare for your arrival at our office.

Remember, your dental health is crucial to your overall well-being. In a dental emergency, swift action can make all the difference. Trust us to provide the prompt, effective, and compassionate care you deserve.

Tooth Extractions

Gentle, Stress-Free Tooth Extractions

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When a Tooth Has to Go,
We Make It Easy

If you are in pain and your tooth is too badly infected or damaged to be saved, you might need to remove it. We provide gentle and efficient tooth extractions in Highland Village, TX. At Highland Village Smile Studio, we understand that tooth extractions can be intimidating and stressful. Dr. Richardson provides effective, compassionate care, and your smile’s health is her top priority. Our experienced team uses the latest techniques and technology to ensure your tooth extraction procedure is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Let us save your smile – contact our friendly team today!

Understanding Tooth Extraction

Our goal is to save your natural teeth whenever possible. In some cases, however, the most effective option to restore health and functionality to your smile is to extract your tooth. At our Highland Village practice, Dr. Richardson uses her skill, experience, and excellent bedside manner to ensure that your tooth extraction procedure goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible. Following your procedure, we are happy to provide quality tooth replacement treatments, if needed, to restore your smile’s health, beauty, and function.

When A Tooth Extraction Is Necessary

Dr. Richardson will recommend a tooth extraction only in the case of:

  • Severe infection: If an infection has destroyed a significant portion of your tooth and supporting bone structure.
  • Advanced tooth decay: In some cases, decay can damage your tooth beyond repair, making a successful restoration impossible
  • Overcrowding: If you have too many teeth to fit properly in your mouth, extracting a tooth can create space for proper alignment, especially in preparation for orthodontic treatment.
  • Impacted teeth: If you have wisdom teeth or other teeth that fail to erupt properly, they can cause pain, infection, and damage to your mouth and your other teeth.
  • Trauma or injury: If you have a tooth or teeth that are severely damaged due to injury or trauma and successful restoration is impossible.

What to Expect During Your Tooth Extraction

At Highland Village, our top priority is your comfort, and our friendly and experienced team will be with you throughout the tooth extraction process. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Consultation and Examination: Dr. Richardson will thoroughly examine your teeth before recommending the tooth extraction treatment plan that best suits your needs.
  2. The Extraction Procedure: We provide sedation options to ensure your comfort, and then Dr. Richardson will gently and efficiently remove your tooth.
  3. Post-Operative Care: Dr. Richardson will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your extraction site and how to manage any tenderness you may experience after the procedure. It’s important to follow these guidelines carefully to prevent complications, promote proper healing, and minimize your discomfort.

We Offer Comfortable, Seamless Tooth Extractions in Highland Village, TX

At Highland Village Smile Studio, Dr. Richardson uses great care and skill to ensure that your tooth extraction experience is as comfortable and painless as possible. We will also provide you with detailed post-treatment care instructions so you can properly take care of your smile as it heals. For more information on tooth extraction and to schedule your personalized consultation at our friendly dental office, we invite you to call or visit us today. We are committed to improving your smile!

Root Canal Therapy

Don’t Pull It, Save It!

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A Better Option Than Extraction

Facing the prospect of a root canal can be daunting, but at Highland Village Smile Studio, we turn this essential dental procedure into a positive, pain-relieving experience. We understand that the path leading you to consider root canal therapy might involve discomfort, anxiety, and uncertainty. That’s why we’re committed to providing a soothing, informative, and supportive environment where your comfort and oral health are our top priorities.

Root canal therapy is often misunderstood, leading to unnecessary apprehension. Our approach demystifies this crucial treatment, emphasizing its effectiveness in relieving pain, saving natural teeth, and preventing more serious dental issues. Our skilled Highland Village dental team uses the latest techniques and technologies to ensure your root canal procedure is as comfortable and efficient as possible.

At Highland Village Smile Studio, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge and care. We take the time to thoroughly explain the root canal process, answer all your questions, and address your concerns. Our goal is to make your journey to oral health a smooth and worry-free experience, restoring not just the health of your tooth but also your peace of mind.

What is a Root Canal?

For a patient with infected dental pulp, Dr. Richardson may recommend a root canal in Highland Village, Texas. Root canal therapy can relieve the pain of the tooth and restore the health of your smile.

Root canal treatment is a type of endodontic therapy that is often recommended if the tooth pulp and nerves become infected or damaged. This may occur if injury or decay reaches deep into the tooth, past the outer enamel layer. When left untreated, this type of infection and disease may cause the tooth to die and necessitate tooth extraction.

To restore the health of the tooth and avoid the need for extraction, our skilled dentist in Highland Village, TX, will remove the infected and injured tissues from within the tooth, clean the tooth, and fill it with a medicated material.

We will then cap the tooth with a restoration, such as a dental crown, to return the tooth to its original shape and structure. In most cases, a root canal can be completed in only one or two comfortable visits to our office.

Root canal treatment has a reputation for being a painful treatment. In reality, however, root canal treatment can often be completed with minimal discomfort thanks to advanced techniques, tools, and anesthesia.

What Are The Benefits?

Root canal therapy offers several significant benefits, particularly in terms of oral health and overall well-being. Here are some of the key advantages:

  1. Pain Relief: One of the primary benefits of a root canal is the alleviation of pain caused by deep decay, infection, or inflammation of the tooth’s nerve. By removing the infected or inflamed pulp, root canal therapy can eliminate pain and discomfort.
  2. Tooth Preservation: Root canal treatment allows for the preservation of the natural tooth, which is generally preferable to extraction. Keeping your natural tooth helps maintain your normal biting force and sensation, ensures proper chewing function, and protects other teeth from excessive wear or strain.
  3. Prevention of Jawbone Degradation: By preserving the natural tooth, root canal therapy helps maintain the integrity of the jawbone. When a tooth is extracted and not replaced, the jawbone in that area can deteriorate over time, leading to potential oral health issues.
  4. Preventing the Spread of Infection: If left untreated, the infection in the tooth can spread to surrounding teeth, gums, and even other areas of the body. A root canal removes the source of infection, preventing its spread and reducing the risk of abscesses or systemic health problems.
  5. Aesthetic Benefits: After a root canal, the treated tooth is usually restored with a crown or filling, which improves its appearance. Modern dental materials ensure that these restorations look natural, blending seamlessly with the rest of your teeth.
  6. Improved Overall Health: Dental health is closely linked to overall health. By treating and eliminating tooth infections, root canal therapy can contribute to better overall health.
  7. Cost-Effective and Efficient: Compared to tooth extraction and replacement options like implants or bridges, root canal therapy is often more cost-effective. It typically requires fewer visits and less complex procedures.
  8. Long-Lasting Results: With proper care, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can last a lifetime. The success rate of root canal therapy is high, and complications are relatively rare.

Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy

Recognizing the symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal is crucial for timely and effective dental treatment. Here are some common signs that suggest a root canal might be necessary:

  1. Severe Toothache: Pain in the tooth when chewing or applying pressure, particularly a persistent or intense toothache, can be a key indicator.
  2. Prolonged Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers long after the exposure has ended can be a sign of nerve damage or infection.
  3. Swollen, Tender Gums: Swelling or tenderness in the gums around a particular tooth could indicate an underlying infection that might require a root canal.
  4. Darkening of the Tooth: If a tooth begins to darken or discolor, particularly a grayish or blackish tone, it may be a sign of damage to the nerve inside the tooth.
  5. Swollen Jaw or Face: In some cases, an infection requiring a root canal can cause swelling in the jaw or face.
  6. Pimple on the Gums: A recurring or persistent pimple-like bump on the gums, often called a dental abscess, can indicate an infection that may need to be treated with a root canal.
  7. Tooth Trauma or Decay: If a tooth has been chipped, cracked, or has a deep cavity, the nerve of the tooth may be exposed or damaged, leading to infection and the need for a root canal.
  8. Previous Large Fillings: Large or deep fillings can sometimes lead to complications that require a root canal.
  9. No Symptoms: In some cases, a tooth may require a root canal even without visible symptoms. Regular dental check-ups can help identify these situations.

It’s important to note that not all tooth pain or discomfort indicates the need for a root canal. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult with your Highland Village dentist, Dr. Richardson, promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can often lead to a more favorable outcome and may prevent more serious complications.

Preparing For The Procedure

Preparing for a root canal involves a few key steps to ensure the procedure goes smoothly and to minimize any anxiety or discomfort. Here’s how you can prepare:

  1. Understand the Procedure: Educate yourself about the root canal process. Understanding what to expect can help alleviate anxiety. Don’t hesitate to ask our Highland village dental clinic any questions you might have.
  2. Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Rest well the night before your procedure. Being well-rested can help your body handle the stress of the procedure and aid in recovery.
  3. Eat a Healthy Meal: Eat a healthy meal before your appointment. Since the procedure involves local anesthesia, you might need to wait several hours after the procedure before eating again. Avoid alcohol a day before your procedure.
  4. Take Prescribed Medications: If Dr. Richradson has prescribed antibiotics or any other medication to treat an infection or reduce inflammation, make sure to take it as directed.
  5. Arrange for Transportation: The effects of anesthesia might make you feel groggy. It’s a good idea to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
  6. Avoid Smoking: If you smoke, try to avoid it before the procedure as smoking can affect the healing process.
  7. Discuss Your Medical History: Inform us about your full medical history, including any medications you are taking and any allergies you have, especially to anesthetics or antibiotics.
  8. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your appointment. This can help you feel at ease during the procedure.
  9. Follow Pre-Procedure Instructions: We might give you specific instructions to follow before the procedure, such as avoiding eating or drinking for a certain period if you’re going to be sedated.
  10. Stay Calm and Relaxed: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to keep yourself calm on the day of the procedure.
  11. Schedule a Follow-up Appointment: Make sure to schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist in Highland Village to check on the healing process and to place a permanent restoration on the treated tooth.

Tips for a Speedy Recovery

Recovering from a root canal is generally straightforward, but following certain tips can help ensure a speedy and smooth recovery:

  1. Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions: Adhere strictly to any guidelines or prescriptions your dentist provides. This may include taking prescribed pain relievers or antibiotics.
  2. Rest and Take it Easy: Avoid strenuous activities for a few days after your procedure. Physical exertion can increase blood flow and potentially lead to bleeding or swelling in the treated area.
  3. Manage Pain as Needed: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to manage discomfort. Follow the recommended dosage and consult your dentist if the pain persists or worsens.
  4. Avoid the Treatment Area When Eating: Until the numbness wears off, be careful not to bite or chew on your treated tooth, as you could inadvertently injure yourself. Even after, it’s wise to chew on the opposite side of your mouth for a few days.
  5. Eat Soft Foods: Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods for a few days post-treatment to avoid putting pressure on your treated tooth. Foods like soups, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and mashed potatoes are good options.
  6. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Continue with your regular oral hygiene routine, but be gentle around the treated area. Brush and floss carefully to keep the area clean and aid in healing.
  7. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking can delay healing, and alcohol can interact with any prescribed medication. It’s best to avoid these substances during your recovery period.
  8. Use a Cold Compress: If you experience swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek in the area of the treatment for 10-15 minutes at a time.
  9. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, but avoid very hot drinks immediately after your treatment.
  10. Watch for Signs of Infection: Though rare, infections can occur. Be on the lookout for signs like severe pain, swelling, a return of original symptoms, or an allergic reaction to medication.
  11. Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Make sure to attend any scheduled follow-up appointments at Highland Village Smile Studio to ensure proper healing and to address any concerns.

Experience Pain-Free Root Canal Therapy in Highland Village, TX!

Don’t let dental pain hold you back! At Highland Village Smile Studio, we’re committed to providing you with a comfortable and stress-free root canal experience. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms that might require a root canal or simply looking for more information, we’re here to help.

Call us at (972) 236-4429 or visit our website to book your consultation.

Dentures & Partials

Dentures & Partials

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Dentures & Partials

When a patient is missing most or all of their permanent teeth, Dr. Richardson may recommend dentures in Highland Village, Texas. At Highland Village Smile Studio, we provide both complete and partial dentures to meet the needs of our patients. We encourage you to contact our office today for more information and to schedule an appointment with our dentist.

Dentures are removable oral appliances used to replace multiple missing teeth. If you are missing several teeth or all of your teeth, dentures might be just what you need to restore the function, beauty, and health of your smile. There are two kinds of dentures: complete dentures and partial dentures.

  • A complete denture is used to replace all of the teeth in a full dental arch. We may suggest a complete denture to replace all of the teeth in both arches or just one, depending on your individual needs. Our dentist may suggest using a denture adhesive for improved stability.
  • A partial denture is used if you are missing multiple teeth but have remaining natural teeth. A partial denture often includes a thin framework or clasps that attach to the natural teeth for a secure fit.

Our dentist may recommend complete or partial dentures to restore your smile if you are missing multiple teeth; dentures can improve your ability to properly speak and eat, restore your natural facial volume, and enhance the overall beauty of your smile. Your dentures will be custom made to fit your smile comfortably, aesthetically, and securely. We invite you to call or visit us soon to learn more about how dentures can improve your smile!

Dental Bridges

Dental Bridges in Highland Village, TX

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Dental Bridges

If you are missing one or more permanent teeth, Dr. Richardson may recommend a dental bridge in Highland Village, Texas. A bridge is a fixed dental restoration, meaning it is non-removable. The dental bridge is anchored in place through the use of two dental crowns, which are custom made to fit your smile and are placed on the teeth or dental implants next to the space left by the missing tooth. These crowns hold the artificial tooth in place to restore your smile, ensuring that your restoration will not easily shift or come loose. It typically requires only two visits to our practice to complete the dental bridge. Dental bridges are designed to last for many years and to restore the function, beauty, and health of your smile.

If you are missing one tooth or multiple teeth in a row, we may recommend a dental bridge to restore your smile. A bridge is a fixed dental restoration, meaning it is non-removable. The dental bridge is anchored in place through the use of two dental crowns, which are custom made to fit your smile and are placed on the teeth or dental implants next to the space left by the missing tooth. These crowns hold the artificial tooth in place to restore your smile, ensuring that your restoration will not easily shift or come loose. It typically requires only two visits to our practice to complete the dental bridge. Dental bridges are designed to last for many years and to restore the function, beauty, and health of your smile.

Our Dentist May Recommend a Dental Bridge to Improve Your Smile By:

  • Restoring your ability to speak, eat, and chew as normal
  • Alleviating excess stress on the bite
  • Improving the shape and volume of your face
  • Replacing an unwanted removable partial denture
  • Preventing the remaining natural teeth from moving out of position
  • Enhancing the appearance of your smile

We will help you determine whether a custom dental bridge is the right choice for restoring your smile after tooth loss. For more information, please call or visit us today.

Dental Crowns

Dental Crowns in Highland Village, TX

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A Smile You Can Be Proud Of

Our team at Highland Village Smiles, we understand that the journey towards seeking dental crowns is often rooted in unique challenges and concerns. Whether you’re grappling with dental decay, facing the aftermath of an injury, or simply seeking to enhance your smile’s aesthetic, Dr. Richardson is here to provide compassionate and expert restorative care tailored to your individual needs.

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What is a dental crown & how can it help you?

For a patient whose tooth needs to be restored, Dr. Richardson may recommend a dental crowns in Highland Village, TX. A dental crown, or cap, can restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of your tooth. The crown is custom-made to fit over the entire tooth, starting at the gum line, in order to restore the tooth to its original shape and size.

While dental crowns can be made from multiple materials, porcelain crowns are popular because they match the natural color and appearance of your teeth. Our Highland Village dentist will help you determine which type of dental crown is right for you. Your smile may benefit from a crown if a tooth is damaged or decayed to the point that a dental filling will not provide a successful restoration. Crowns can also be used for a number of other restorative and aesthetic purposes, including:

  • To protect a tooth following root canal treatment
  • To anchor and attach a dental bridge
  • To cover and complete a dental implant
  • To enhance the beauty of your smile
  • To improve a misshapen tooth
  • To strengthen a tooth that is fractured or weakened
  • To support a large filling when little natural tooth structure remains

The Benefits

Dental crowns offer a multitude of benefits, making them a popular choice for restoring and enhancing dental health.

Protection: Primarily, they serve as a protective cover, shielding damaged or weakened teeth from further deterioration. This is especially beneficial for teeth that have undergone significant decay, large fillings, or root canal therapy. Crowns effectively restore the strength, functionality, and appearance of these teeth, allowing for normal eating and speaking without discomfort.

Aesthetics: Aesthetically, they can be a game-changer. Crafted to match the color, shape, and size of natural teeth, crowns provide a seamless and attractive addition to your smile.

Versatile: They are also incredibly versatile, useful in various dental procedures, including anchoring dental bridges or topping dental implants.

Reliable: With advancements in dental technology, crowns are more durable and natural-looking than ever, often made from high-quality materials like porcelain or ceramic, which are both strong and visually appealing.

This combination of functional and aesthetic benefits makes dental crowns a comprehensive solution for a wide range of dental issues.

What To Expect

When getting dental crowns at Highland Village Smile Studio, patients can expect a comprehensive and multi-step process, tailored to ensure comfort and optimal results. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what a patient can typically expect:

1. Initial Consultation and Examination

  • Purpose: To assess the need for a dental crown and discuss options.
  • Process: This involves a thorough oral examination, possibly including X-rays, to determine the health of the tooth and surrounding gums.
  • Discussion: Dr. Richardson will explain the types of crowns available (e.g., porcelain, ceramic, metal), and advise on the best choice based on the patient’s needs and preferences.

2. Preparation of the Tooth

  • Purpose: To shape the tooth for a crown fitting.
  • Process: Our Highland Village dentist will numb the area and then shape the tooth to make room for the crown. This involves removing a portion of the enamel.
  • Temporary Crown: In most cases, a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made.

3. Impressions and Color Matching

  • Purpose: To create a custom crown that fits perfectly and matches the color of the patient’s teeth.
  • Process: Impressions of the shaped tooth and surrounding teeth are taken. If the crown is visible when smiling, the dentist will also match the color to the adjacent teeth for a natural look.

4. Creation of the Crown

  • Location: The impressions are sent to a dental lab where the crown is made.
  • Duration: This process can take a couple of weeks.

5. Fitting of the Permanent Crown

  • Purpose: To replace the temporary crown with the permanent one.
  • Process: Your dentist in Highland Village, Dr. Richardson, removes the temporary crown, fits the new crown over the tooth, and makes any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and accurate fit.
  • Finalization: Once the fit is perfect, the crown is cemented in place.

6. Follow-Up and Aftercare

  • Purpose: To ensure the health of the tooth and the success of the crown.
  • Process: Dr. Richardson may schedule a follow-up visit to check on the crown and the underlying tooth.
  • Aftercare Advice: Patients receive instructions on how to care for their new crown, including brushing, flossing, and possibly avoiding certain foods temporarily.

7. Long-Term Care

  • Regular Check-Ups: Regular dental visits are recommended to monitor the crown and overall oral health.
  • Lifespan: With proper care, crowns can last many years.

At Highland Village Smile Studio, the emphasis is on patient comfort and satisfaction throughout this process. Our Highland Village dental team ensures that patients are well-informed, comfortable, and confident with each step of their dental crown procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the entire dental crown process take?

A: The process typically takes two to three visits over a span of two to three weeks. The first visit is for preparation and impression-taking, the second for fitting the permanent crown, and possibly a third for a follow-up.

Q: Is the procedure painful?

A: Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia is used during the preparation phase to minimize pain. Some sensitivity or mild soreness after the procedure is normal but typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Q: How long do dental crowns last?

A: With proper care, dental crowns can last between 5 and 15 years, or even longer. The lifespan depends on the material of the crown, oral hygiene practices, and habits like teeth grinding.

Q: Will my crown look natural?

A: Yes, Dr. Richardson ensures your dental crowns are designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. The goal is to make the crown indistinguishable from your natural teeth.

Q: Can I eat normally with a dental crown?

A: Yes, once the permanent crown is placed and fully set, you can eat normally. However, it’s advisable to avoid very hard or sticky foods that could damage the crown.

Q: Are there different types of crowns? If so, how do I choose the right one?

A: Yes, there are various types of crowns like porcelain, ceramic, metal, and porcelain fused to metal. The best type for you depends on several factors including the tooth’s location, your bite, gum tissue position, color of surrounding teeth, and personal preference. Your dentist will guide you in making the best choice.

Q: How do I care for my new teeth?

A: Care for it as you would your natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential. Avoiding hard and sticky foods can also help prolong the crown’s life.

Q: What if my dental crown gets chipped or falls out?

A: If your crown gets chipped or falls out, contact us immediately. In many cases, the crown can be repaired or re-cemented. If the crown is severely damaged, a new crown may be necessary.

Q: Can I get a crown on a tooth that had a root canal?

A: Yes, it’s actually common to place a crown on a tooth that has had a root canal, as these teeth are more prone to fracture and need the additional protection a crown provides.

Restore Your Smile With Dental Crowns in Highland Village, TX!

Embrace the journey to a healthier, more confident smile with Highland Village Smile Studio!

If you’re considering dental crowns, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Whether you’re dealing with a damaged tooth, seeking aesthetic improvement, or have questions about the process, we’re here to help.

Call us at (972) 236-4429 or visit our website to book your consultation.

Dental Fillings

Dental Fillings

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Flawlessly Restore Your Smile with Tooth-Colored Fillings

Let’s be honest. Hearing you have a cavity is nobody’s favorite news. But we’re here to make fixing it a surprisingly easy and comfortable experience. At Highland Village Smile Studio, we mix a little artistry with our science, using beautiful, tooth-colored materials to get your tooth healthy again. Our goal is simple: to create a restoration so natural, even you might forget it’s there.

Why Choose A Filling Over Ignoring Your Cavities

  • It stops decay in its tracks. By removing the decay and sealing the tooth, we stop bacteria from causing bigger problems that could lead to more complex treatments later on.
  • It brings back your bite. A filling rebuilds your tooth’s natural strength, letting you get back to chewing your favorite foods without a second thought.
  • It can end painful sensitivity. That zing you feel with hot or cold drinks? A filling covers up the vulnerable parts of your tooth to bring you welcome relief.

The Modern Way to Fill a Cavity

You can forget about old-school metal fillings. We only use modern, tooth-colored composite materials that look better, feel better, and are better for your teeth.

  • Looks Just Like Your Real Tooth: This is where the artistry comes in. We’ll custom-blend the material to match the exact shade of your teeth. The final result is so seamless, it’s practically invisible.
  • Keeps Your Tooth Stronger: This modern material bonds directly to your tooth, which means we don’t have to remove as much of its healthy, natural structure. It’s a gentler and more conservative approach.
  • Built to Last: Don’t let the good looks fool you. The composite materials we use are incredibly durable and designed to handle all the wear and tear of your daily life for years to come.

The Process & What To Expect

Your peace of mind is everything to us, so we always begin by making sure the area is completely numb for a pain-free experience. From there, Dr. Richardson and our fun, welcoming assistants will gently clear away the decay, preserving as much of your healthy tooth as possible.

Then comes the magic: we’ll artfully rebuild your tooth layer by layer with a perfectly matched composite material, sculpting it to restore its natural shape and strength.

In one quick visit, Dr. Richardson cleans, restores, and polishes your smile, leaving you with a healthier, happier smile.

Protect Your Smile In Just One Visit

If you’re worried about cavities or even a slight chip in your smile, the most comfortable and conservative time to address it is now. Come and experience the difference that artistic, attentive care from a genuinely friendly team can make.

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Preventive Care

Dentistry to Help Your Smile Last

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Preventive Care

Dr. Richardson and our team are proud to provide preventive care in Highland Village, Texas. These services, like professional teeth cleanings, can help prevent dental issues like tooth decay. To learn more and to schedule an appointment with our dentist, contact Highland Village Smile Studio today.

The goal of preventive care is to protect your smile from damage caused by tooth decay, periodontal disease (gum disease), and other damaging dental conditions. Preventive dentistry works to prevent these diseases before they cause damage that requires repair. We offer a number of preventive dental treatments to help you keep your smile in the best possible health. These services include dental sealants and dental cleanings; visiting our office regularly ensures that we detect and treat any early signs of damage before they become more extensive and painful.

There are several steps you can take to prevent cavities and tooth decay. Our dentist recommends that you follow these guidelines to help minimize your chances for developing cavities:

  • Brush and floss your teeth every day. You should brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoridated toothpaste.
  • Maintain a balanced, healthy diet with a limited amount of very sugary or acidic foods.
  • Visit our office at least twice a year for a routine teeth cleaning and dental exam.
  • Ask your dentist about dental sealants and fluoride treatment to see if they are right for your smile.

To learn more about preventive care, we invite you to call or visit us today!