Dr. Susan Wood

December 13, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Dental Emergencies During the Holidays

While many of us appreciate the change in schedule that the winter holidays usher in, if we experience a dental emergency during a holiday, it can be difficult to determine what conditions require immediate care by a dentist and which don’t. Here are a few guidelines to help you determine whether your dental pains are serious or not, and what to do next.

Red Alert: Don’t Ignore A Dental Emergency

If you experience a dental injury that is the result of a blow to the head or face, involves a laceration, serious cut, a jaw fracture or dislocation, or is caused by an infection in your mouth so severe it’s impacting your ability to breathe or swallow, you’ll want to head directly for the ER. All of these conditions are potentially life-threatening and need immediate medical attention.

Yellow Alert: Urgent But Not Emergency Conditions

There is another category of dental crisis that normally necessitates a next-day trip to the dentist. Some of these conditions include:

Cracked or broken teeth
A knocked-out tooth that was not the result of face/head trauma
A dental abscess that’s painful but not interfering with breathing or swallowing

If your dentist or endodontist is not available due to a holiday closure, call the office’s emergency number. The practice may have a designated emergency provider, or your provider may be able to call in an antibiotic to eliminate infection.

Green Alert: Situations Where Home Care Can Work

Although it may make for a challenging day or two, some dental conditions can be managed from home until the dentist is open for business after the holidays.

If you lose a filling, your pharmacy may carry temporary dental filling material to protect your tooth.
A mild toothache may respond to over-the-counter pain relievers until the dentist visit can be scheduled.
Some minor dental discomfort can be relieved by chewing on the side opposite the painful tooth until your appointment.
Keep the affected area of your mouth clean by swishing with salt water.

“Our practice makes every effort to see clients the same day that they call,” says Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen, a partner at the Phoenix Endodontic Group. “We see patients on an emergency basis 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, when there is a delay before a client can see the dentist, we can help them determine the safest and most comfortable way to make it through a holiday.”

October 18, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Don’t Let A Root Canal Scare You

The last several weeks in October seem to be high season for those who love all things scary, including horror movies, gory Halloween costumes and the like. But very few people seem to use the season to embrace their fears of real-world situations. If the prospect of getting a root canal has you quaking in your boots more than a trip to the store to buy your Halloween costume, let’s address several common fears about them, so you can take that dental procedure out of your personal mental category of “spooky.”

Getting Over Your Fear Of Root Canals

Fear #1: My root canal treatment will be painful.

Fact: The tools and techniques that endodontists currently use to work with patients minimize pain and maximize the chances that he or she will be able to save your natural tooth. The discomfort you might experience during a root canal is similar to what you might experience if you were having a tooth filled. For many patients, a root canal actually relieves the pain they’ve been experiencing due to an injured or infected tooth.

Fear #2: My root canal treatment will involve frightening procedures or loud noises.

Fact: One fear common to many types of dental anxiety is undergoing a treatment involving complex, unfamiliar activities or which involves loud noises. Your endodontist can explain how he or she will perform the root canal, and is able to offer an array of remedies to keep you calm and comfortable during the procedure.

Fear #3: My root canal treatment won’t last, so why bother?

Fact: Some patients hesitate to get a root canal based on the faulty belief that they’re rarely successful, and wonder if they should just move directly to getting the tooth extracted. The data on root canals show that they preserve the natural tooth 95 percent of the time, so it is definitely a procedure worth considering!

“There are a lot of situations in life that require caution and heeding one’s fears, but root canals simply aren’t one of them,” says Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen, who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group. “Your endodontist can help you overcome your fears related to this important dental procedure.”

October 12, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Get To Know Suzie Salas

Suzie Salas, second from the right.

As part of our Employee Spotlight series, this month we are featuring our amazing dental assistant, Suzanna Salas. At Phoenix Endodontic Group, Suzie offers extensive dental knowledge and proves herself to be a key asset to our team. Suzie provides exclusive tips and unique insight regarding Phoenix Endodontic Group.

1.) What is something that makes Phoenix Endo unique?

Phoenix Endodontic Group is involved in the community and multiple charity events to help others in need. Our team goes above and beyond to give back to the community and help dental patients in need with their pain.

2.) What would you say is your dental philosophy?

My dental philosophy is to give each dental patient the best care in a friendly and pain-free environment.

3.) What made you go into the endodontics field?

I find all aspects of specialty dentistry and oral surgery to be extremely intriguing. Not only this, my passion for helping others is fulfilled knowing that patients are leaving happier and healthier than they did when they came to our office initially. I enjoy continually educating myself on different dental techniques and Phoenix Endodontic Group provides me with the resources to grow tremendously in my profession!

4.) Where do you see Phoenix Endodontic Group going in the next five years?

In the next five years, I believe Phoenix Endodontic Group will grow in the endodontic community and looked to as a leader in the dental industry.

5.) Why do you volunteer at AZMOM?

I am extremely passionate about volunteering at AZMOM because there are many people who are unable to afford dental treatment and I can use my expertise to give them the dental care they need.

6.) How do your bilingual skills play a part in your day-to-day operations?

Being bilingual helps service patients who may not be proficient in English. Speaking Spanish allows our business to grow in different areas and become more marketable among the dental community.

7.) Describe Phoenix Endo in three words.

It is difficult to describe our office in only three words! We are highly diverse and unique in different ways. The top three words to define Phoenix Endodontic Group are friendly, caring and available.

8.) What is the number one oral health mistake every patient makes?

Oral health is vital to our overall health so it is extremely important to know proper dental care techniques. Many patients do not brush or flossing properly and thus ignore bleeding gums. If you are suffering from bleeding gums, it is of utmost importance to make an appointment with Phoenix Endodontic Group to receive proper care.

9) What piece of advice can you offer all patients?

The best advice I can offer our patients is combined in two parts. Firstly, it is vital to follow proper oral hygiene. Secondly, see your dentist on a regular basis. These two components will prevent tooth complications and costly dental work.

Our team will restore your smile and heal you of pain. To learn more about our practice, or to schedule an appointment, call (602) 748-4190, or visit our website.

August 31, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Tips to Prevent Gum Disease

Often times, men and woman question why they should care about their oral health. While many people focus on physical health, oral health tends to fall beneath the wayside. Oral health plays an incredibly important role in your physical health and should not be overlooked! Some might think a little gum bleeding is not so bad, but gum disease can lead to many severe problems. The severity of gum disease ranges from a mild type known as gingivitis to a more serious kind called periodontitis. The most severe cases of gum disease can result in tissue damage, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Do you think losing your teeth can simply be replaced by implants? It’s not that easy. Implants are not only expensive but often cannot be performed because of bone loss, one of the effects of gum disease. Because of this, the patient is forced to consider bridges or even dentures. Treatment of gum disease depends on a number of factors including the severity of the disease, the quality of your oral health care, and risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, and pregnancy. According to the American Dental Association (ADA):

Warning signs that can signal a problem:

gums that bleed easily
red, swollen, tender gums
gums that have pulled away from the teeth
persistent bad breath or bad taste
permanent teeth that are loose or separating
any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
any change in the fit of partial dentures

Factors, which increase the risk of developing gum disease, are:

poor oral hygiene
smoking or chewing tobacco
genetics
crooked teeth that are hard to keep clean
pregnancy
diabetes
medications, including steroids, certain types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives

What can you do about it now?

The main cause of gingivitis is dental plaque. In fact, dental plaque is the root of many oral health problems. If not removed regularly, plaque can accumulate between your teeth and around the gums. If you have gingivitis, you can normally restore your gum and oral health through improved teeth cleaning. The American Dental Association emphasizes the importance of “brushing your teeth twice a day, cleaning between your teeth daily, eating a healthy diet, and scheduling regular dental visits.” Even if you are diagnosed with gum disease, your dentist can design a treatment plan that includes professional cleaning to help you maintain good oral health.

Oral health is as equally important as physical health and must be cared for regularly. Consult your dentist right away if you suspect you have a problem. Gum disease is preventable and our team of dental experts can give you the care you need. To learn more about our services, or to schedule an appointment at Phoenix Endodontic Group, please call (602) 748-4190, or visit our website.

August 10, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

What is Cone Beam Computed Tomography?

Threats to the inner pulp of your teeth can sometimes be challenging to identify and diagnose, but dental technology has come a long way in the past few years. One of the most exciting pieces of recently developed dental technology that aids endodontic specialists in their work is cone beam computed tomography, or CBCT.

Dental CBCT machines are a special type of x-ray equipment used when regular dental or facial x-rays are not sufficient. An endodontist may use this technology to produce 3-D images of teeth, soft tissues, nerve pathways and bone in a single scan. During a CBCT scan, the the machine rotates around the patient, capturing images using a cone-shaped x-ray beam. The resulting images can capture what is happening in the patient’s mouth, jaw and neck, as well as in their ears, nose and throat.

The biggest advantage of CBCT dental technology is that it allows the practitioner to visualize a patient’s condition as it actually exists in their mouth, because it is able to differentiate between many types of structures and airspaces — including bone, teeth, airway, sinuses, and soft tissue. This allows for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning process. CBCT can also be used after treatment to ensure that a root canal or other procedure has adequately addressed all problems that existed prior to the intervention.

Patients need to do very little to prepare for a CBCT scan, other than to wear loose clothing and leave all jewelry at home. CBCT scans are low-dose x-ray examinations compared to a standard medical CT scan.

“We’re thrilled that we can provide CBCT scans for our patients to deliver comprehensive endodontic treatment. This is a piece of dental technology that allows us to provide better care to everyone,” says Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen, who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group.

July 5, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Interview with a Dental Assistant

Meet Sarah Apostolakis. She is one of our many talented dental assistants that we have here to assist during procedures at the Phoenix Endodontic Group. Sarah has experience in periodontics, oral surgery, and general dentistry. She is a very active, outdoorsy person and is passionate about coming into work every day. She is great with caring for our patients and wanting them to get the best out of their experience here at the Phoenix Endodontic Group. She has great tips and advice for our patients about helping to improve oral health.

What do you find most rewarding about being a dental assistant?

What I find most rewarding about being a dental assistant is changing someone’s fear of going to the dentist. My goal is to give every patient the best experience I can provide and to remove their fear of coming back.

What is the biggest piece of advice you have for patients to ensure good oral health?

The best advice I can give is – floss the teeth you want to keep!

There are a lot of individuals and research that say electric toothbrushes are better. Do you agree and why?

My opinion on electric toothbrushes is they can be a good tool if used properly. I always recommend using a soft bristled head to prevent damaging the gums and tooth. The best technique is to brush in small soft circles.

How did you become interested in the dental field?

I knew I wanted to be in the dental field since I was a kid. Going to the dentist was a fun experience for me.

What advice would you give people that are afraid of or dislike dental treatment? What would you say to ease those fears?

Most people’s fear of the dentist stems from a bad experience they had or heard of. It can be difficult to relax in a situation you feel a lack of knowledge or control. That is why I think communicating with the patient is so important. I like to assure we will not start until they are ready and comfortable and talk them through the procedure so they are informed about what is going on.

What is your favorite part of working with Dr. Allen?

My favorite part of working with Dr. Allen is how relatable and compassionate she is with her patients. Dr. Allen has undergone a lot of dental work herself which has given her empathy and understanding on what it is like to be in the chair. She treats every patient how she would want to be treated.

When you are seeing patients, what is the most common problem you see with their dental health or general dental care?

The most common problem I see in dental health is gum disease. Tartar and plaque build up under the gums and in between the teeth that can only be removed properly by a hygienist. It is easy to fall out of the habit of flossing and getting your teeth cleaned twice a year with our busy lives but it’s important for your oral health to make time.

Since one’s diet is said to influence their dental health, do you have any diet recommendations?

Diet does directly influence dental health. Acidic and sugary foods are the most harmful to the teeth. I love candy and oranges and eat them all the time but I always try to rinse my mouth out after. That way I do not leave an acidic or sugary environment in my mouth which can be harmful to my teeth and gums.

Do you have a favorite dental brand or product that you use at home?

My favorite dental brand is Colgate. I have never had issues with their products, but any toothpaste with fluoride and mouthwash without alcohol will work.

Take your oral health to the next the level with Sarah’s simple tips and tricks. Giving advice and making every patient feel comfortable when they come in for a procedure is why Sarah is a prized dental assistant at the Phoenix Endodontic Group. Make sure to keep your smile bright and healthy by visiting Phoenix Endodontic Group.

June 28, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Endodontists Save Teeth

When we think of tooth saving tips, we immediately think of oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) or prevention like wearing your mouthguard during sports or other physical activity. But, rarely, do we think of the choice to be made once a tooth is compromised.

The American Association of Endodontists has an array of tooth saving tips once a tooth needs intervention: “Saving a natural tooth through endodontic treatment should always be the first choice for the best health and cosmetic results. There are many advantages to saving your natural tooth: efficient chewing; normal biting force so you can continue to eat your favorite foods; maintains a natural appearance; limits the need for more costly, ongoing dental work”.

Tooth Saving Tips

If you are given a choice between root canal treatment or tooth extraction, always choose the root canal. Dentures, bridges or implants don’t look, feel, or function as well as natural teeth.
If your dentist recommends tooth extraction, ask whether root canal treatment is an option.
If your dentist says that an endodontic procedure is not an option, ask why, and request a referral to an endodontist. Endodontists specialize in saving teeth and have at least two years of advanced training in root canal procedures. They use advanced equipment to treat patients quickly and comfortably, diagnosing the condition, and relieving pain.

What to Avoid

Never choose extraction because you think it will be cheaper or less painful! When a natural tooth is extracted, it must be replaced with an artificial tooth to prevent other teeth from shifting, and to prevent future dental problems. The cost of a denture, bridge or implant, plus the extraction, is higher than the cost of an endodontic procedure that would save the tooth for years to come. Modern techniques and anesthesia make root canal treatment virtually painless. Most dental plans cover endodontic treatment.
Never choose extraction because you think it will be quicker! Endodontic treatments generally require 1-2 visits lasting less than an hour. An extraction requires one visit, but the denture, bridge or implant will require several additional visits.

Endodontists are our local superheroes that save teeth! Want to learn more about root canal treatment? Visit Phoenix Endodontic Group at www.phoenixendodontist.com.

June 21, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Dealing With Dislodged Teeth

Experiencing a dental injury can be a traumatic experience. If you experience an impact injury to your mouth, you may need root canal treatment, even if the tooth isn’t completely knocked out of your mouth. The pulp of your tooth can be injured if the tooth is pushed into or out of its socket, or if it is forced to one side because of the injury.

Here are some common questions and answers about what you should do if you have a dislodged tooth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dislodged Teeth

Question #1: Ouch! I have a tooth dislodged from an accident. What should I do?

You should contact your endodontist or general dentist to have him or her reposition and stabilize the tooth. Medication such as calcium hydroxide may be put inside the tooth as part of the root canal treatment.

Question #2: Why do I need to see an endodontist about my dislodged tooth?

As mentioned above, an injury severe enough to move a tooth out of its natural place in your mouth is likely to cause damage to the pulp and root of your tooth. Endodontists are experts in providing root canal treatments, which are essential to saving an injured or infected tooth that has damage to its pulp.

Question #3: How soon should root canal treatment be started on a dislodged tooth?

To ensure the best chance for success, root canal treatment on a dislodged tooth should be started within a few days of the injury, whenever possible.

Question #4: My 11-year-old had one of her permanent teeth dislodged. Does she need a root canal treatment?

Maybe. The teeth of children under age 12 are still developing and may be able to recover from an injury in ways that the teeth of an adult cannot. Your endodontist or general dentist should monitor your child’s tooth closely so that he or she can intervene immediately if any unfavorable changes appear.

“Having a tooth dislodged can be scary, and can also really hurt,” says Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen, who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group. “It can be reassuring to know that a root canal treatment can help preserve the natural tooth and keep it healthy for years to come!”

May 1, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Meet Your Endodontist, Your Tooth-Saving Superhero

The current generation of movie-watchers has a broad selection of superhero films from which to choose. But there is one type of superhero who walks among us … doing his or her job … whom we might not recognize, even when they are hard at work.

This secret superhero is your friendly local endodontist, and during Root Canal Awareness Week, slated for May 7-13 this year, these “caped crusaders” explain their role in saving your natural teeth through root canals and other procedures. Here are a few facts about these dental superheroes and the important work they do.

Fast Facts About Endodontists and Root Canals

Root canals aren’t what they used to be – they’re better! Many root canal myths, including that the procedure is painful or dangerous, are based on half-truths from generations past. Today’s root canals offer relief from pain and are often the most effective way to save an injured or infected natural tooth.
Endodontists are specialists in performing root canals. More than 15 million root canals are performed each year, and endodontists perform an average of 25 per week – as specialists, root canals are their primary practice focus.
Endodontists are leaders in dental pain management and the diagnosis of oral pain. The extra years of study that endodontists undertake after dental school enables them to quickly diagnose the causes of dental pain, including tooth abscesses, cracked or broken teeth, or dislodged teeth. If a root canal or other endodontic procedure is the appropriate treatment for your tooth pain, they have advanced skills and surgical equipment to ensure a low-discomfort experience.

“We share information about how we save natural teeth with our patients during Root Canal Awareness Week so they realize the many benefits of endodontic treatment,” says Dr. Allen, who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group. “We don’t see ourselves as superheroes, but what endodontic treatment can achieve for our clients is pretty amazing.”

February 15, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Top 3 Myths About Root Canals Debunked

These days, it’s becoming more and more important to be a skeptical reader when it comes to researching medical information online. While a lot of quality sites exist, some websites perpetuate misinformation, making it harder to “do your homework” before you speak with your general dentist or an endodontist about important dental procedures such as root canals.

Here are three common myths about root canals that are often found when doing an online search, as well as accurate information to counter each falsehood.

Busting the Top 3 Myths About Root Canals

Myth #1: Root canals are painful. It’s easy to see why this myth exists. Many patients who come in for a root canal are suffering from the pain of a damaged tooth, or have decay that is causing the pulp of the tooth to become infected. These conditions can be very uncomfortable and can endanger the natural tooth. However, root canal treatment typically relieves the pain caused by these conditions, and preserves the natural tooth, as well.

Myth #2: Root canals are only a temporary solution. While few dental treatments last a lifetime, if a root canal is done by a qualified endodontist, its benefits can last for many years, even decades. It’s important to have a restoration such as a crown placed over the root canal to protect it afterward and to continue a regular daily brushing and flossing routine to ensure the treated tooth remains strong.

Myth #3: Extractions are often a better choice than getting a root canal. Because of the difficulties in chewing and speaking that occur when one loses a natural tooth, and the danger of bone resorption if enough natural teeth are extracted, a root canal should at least be considered when a natural tooth is failing. Root canals have a success rate of 85 percent or more, and a tooth that’s had a root canal done can also receive a root canal retreatment or an apicoectomy if additional treatment is needed to stabilize and save the tooth.

“Root canals are a cost-effective, safe, comfortable way to preserve your natural teeth,” says Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen, who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group. “Learn the facts about the procedure and don’t hesitate to call a dental professional if you need a consultation.”