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Home About Our Practice Meet Our Team Services General Dentistry Chipped/Cracked/Broken Tooth Repair Dental Bonding Dental Fillings Dental X-Rays Teeth Cleaning Fluoride Treatments Night Guards / Bruxism Sealants Sedation Dentistry (Nitrous Oxide) TMJ/TMD Treatment Tooth Extraction Tooth Pain, Jaw Pain Wisdom Teeth Removal Restorative Dentistry Dental Crowns (Ceramic / Porcelain / Same Day CEREC) Dental Bridges Dental Implants Dental Implant Restoration & Repairs Dentures in Frisco, TX Inlays & Onlays Root Canals Frisco Cosmetic Dentistry Teeth Whitening Porcelain Veneers Full Mouth Reconstructions – Smile Makeover Invisalign or Clear Aligners old Dental Emergencies Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing Pediatric Dentist Frisco Resources Financing & Insurance Blog Testimonials Locations Careers Contact First Visit Active Dental Plan Home About Our Practice Meet Our Team Services General Dentistry Chipped/Cracked/Broken Tooth Repair Dental Bonding Dental Fillings Dental X-Rays Teeth Cleaning Fluoride Treatments Night Guards / Bruxism Sealants Sedation Dentistry (Nitrous Oxide) TMJ/TMD Treatment Tooth Extraction Tooth Pain, Jaw Pain Wisdom Teeth Removal Restorative Dentistry Dental Crowns (Ceramic / Porcelain / Same Day CEREC) Dental Bridges Dental Implants Dental Implant Restoration & Repairs Dentures in Frisco, TX Inlays & Onlays Root Canals Frisco Cosmetic Dentistry Teeth Whitening Porcelain Veneers Full Mouth Reconstructions – Smile Makeover Invisalign or Clear Aligners old Dental Emergencies Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing Pediatric Dentist Frisco Resources Financing & Insurance Blog Testimonials Locations Careers Contact First Visit Active Dental Plan (469) 598-1055 Edit Template Are Wisdom Teeth Really Necessary to Remove? By Dr. Kalpesh Patel, DDS  Dental Surgeon with 15+ Years of Experience | Founder, Active Dental  Let’s be honest. The moment someone hears “wisdom teeth,” the next thing they think is “extraction.” But here’s the real question I get from patients all the time:   “Do wisdom teeth always have to come out?”  And the answer is: Not always.  When Wisdom Teeth Can Stay Put If your wisdom teeth are:  Fully grown and erupted Lined up properly with your other teeth  Easy to clean, with no food traps or deep gum pockets. Not causing pain or swelling then congratulations, you may not need them removed. I’ve seen plenty of patients who keep their wisdom teeth for life without a single issue. When Removal Becomes the Smarter Choice Here’s where things get tricky: wisdom teeth are the latecomers of your mouth. They don’t always have enough room, and that’s when problems start.  Some red flags:  Impaction – Teeth stuck under gums or bone, pushing at odd angles.  Crowding – They shove your other teeth out of alignment.  Pain or swelling – Especially near the back of your jaw.  Infection risk – Partially erupted teeth create tiny gum flaps that trap bacteria.  Decay – Hard to reach spots are cavity hotspots.  In these cases, removing wisdom teeth is less about “if” and more about “when.”  The Timing Factor Dentists often recommend removal in your late teens or early 20s. Why?  The roots aren’t fully developed, so extraction is easier.  Healing is quicker at a younger age.  Waiting too long can mean more complications.  But again this isn’t a one size fits all decision.  Dr. Kalpesh’s Real Talk Your mouth is unique. Some people live happily with their wisdom teeth. Others struggle with pain, swelling, or repeated infections until they finally get them removed.  So, are wisdom teeth necessary to remove? Only if they’re causing trouble  are very likely to in the future.  Final Note If you’re feeling pressure, swelling, or recurring soreness in the back of your jaw, don’t ignore it. The best way to know for sure is a quick exam and X-ray.  Meet Me in the Next Blog  We drop scroll-stopping, smile-saving dental tips monthly—straight from the chair.  Dr. Kalpesh Patel  Active Dental – Frisco | Flower Mound | Prosper | Irving | Plano 

Are Dental Fillings Permanent? By Dr. Kalpesh Patel, DDS  Dental Surgeon with 15+ Years of Experience | Founder, Active Dental Frisco Let’s Clear the Air: I hear this one almost every week in my chair: “Doc, now that I’ve got a filling, I’m good for life… right?”  I wish I could tell you “Yes, forever!” and send you off into a cavity-free sunset. But here’s the truth dental fillings aren’t forever.  So, How Long Do They Actually Last? It depends on a few things:  Type of filling material – Composite (tooth-colored) fillings usually last 5–10 years. Silver amalgam fillings can push 10–15 years or more.  Where it’s placed – A filling in your chewing molar wears down faster than one in a front tooth.  Your daily habits – Teeth grinding, biting nails, or chewing ice? You’re basically giving that filling an early retirement.  Why Fillings Don’t Last Forever Over time, your filling takes a beating chewing, temperature changes, and pressure cause tiny wear and tear. This can create gaps between the filling and tooth, allowing bacteria to sneak in. And guess what? That means the cavity can come back.  Signs Your Filling Might Need a Checkup Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods  Pain when biting down  A visible crack or chip in the filling  Feeling like something’s “off” when you run your tongue over it  If you notice any of these, don’t wait. A small repair now can prevent a bigger procedure later.  How to Make Fillings Last Longer Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste  Floss daily (yes, really)  Avoid chewing hard objects  Keep up with your dental checkups — we spot problems before they hurt    Dr. Kalpesh’s Final Word Fillings are strong, reliable, and can last years — but they’re not a one-and-done deal. Think of them like a car: take care of them, and they’ll take care of you. Ignore them, and, well… you might be seeing me sooner than you’d like.  Catch You in the Next Blog Dropping real, bite-sized dental truths every month. Dr. Kalpesh Patel  Active Dental – Frisco | Flower Mound | Prosper | Irving | Plano 

A Dentist Reveals: 10 Daily Habits I Avoid for a Healthier Smile By Dr. Kalpesh Patel, DDS    Dental Surgeon with 15+ Years of Experience | Founder, Active Dental     Let’s cut through the dental floss here: your mouth isn’t just a selfie accessory it’s the VIP entrance to your whole body’s health club. I’ve spent nearly 20 years poking around in people’s mouths (yep, that’s my life), and if there’s one thing I know, it’s that the tiniest habits can either save your smile or send it straight to toothache town.   Here’s my “Nope List” the 10 habits I dodge like a cavity and beg my patients to drop if they want a grin worth flashing.  1. Mouth Breathing or Snoring Listen, if you’re breathing through your mouth all night, you’re basically inviting dryness and decay to a slumber party. Your saliva is supposed to be the bouncer, but you’re kicking him out.    Quick fix: Wake up with a mouth drier than grandma’s Thanksgiving turkey? Or snore like you’re auditioning for a chainsaw convention? Time to get that nose or sleep checked out. Your teeth (and heart) will do a happy dance.  2. Brushing With Hulk Strength Your toothbrush isn’t trying to win a wrestling match. If you’re going full demolition mode, you’re scraping off enamel and making your gums want to quit.    The move: soft bristles, chill vibes, and tiny circles. Your gums will write you a thank-you note.  3. Flossing? Don’t Ghost It Flossing isn’t just dentist propaganda. I never skip it, and neither should you. It gets all the stuff your brush pretends isn’t there and kicks gum disease to the curb.    Shortcut: If string floss makes you rage, grab a floss pick or shoot your way to clean with a water flosser.  4. Teeth Are NOT the New Swiss Army Knife Popping bottles or ripping snack bags with your teeth? I’ve seen enough DIY dental disasters in a lifetime.    Just don’t. Use actual tools. Your enamel will last longer.  5. Snack Attack All Day? Nope. Constant munching? You’re throwing a bacteria rave, and acid is the DJ. That’s how enamel gets trashed.    Pro tip: Chug some water after snacks or chew sugar-free gum to hit pause on the acid party.  6. Whitening Overkill Everyone loves a pearly smile, but drowning your teeth in whitening strips? You’ll end up sensitive and sorry.    Better idea: Whitening is fine just let your dentist play coach, not the bench warmer.  7. The “I Feel Fine, So I’m Skipping My Checkup” Move Look, just because nothing hurts doesn’t mean you’re clear. Cavities and gum disease are sneaky like ninjas, but way less cool.    Routine: I get cleaned every six months. So should you. Pinky promises.  8. Brushing Right After Acidic Drinks = Enamel Sabotage Brushing right after downing OJ or soda? That’s scrubbing acid into your enamel. Ouch.    Real talk: Wait half an hour. Swish with water while you wait. Patience pays off. 9. Smoking or Vaping: Not So Cool Smoking stains, wrecks your gums, and increases your cancer risk no mystery. And vaping? Sorry, but it’ll dry your mouth and inflame your gums too.    Just don’t do it. Your smile is not into that look.  10. Shrugging Off Bleeding Gums I’ve watched people totally flip their dental scripts with tiny changes. I’ve also seen stubbornness turn small problems into full-blown dental dramas. I walk the walk because, trust me, it’s worth it.  No shade if you’re guilty of a few just pick one to kick this week. Future you (and your selfie game) will be grateful.  See You in the Next Blog Fresh, actually useful dental tips drop monthly. Don’t miss out.   Dr. Kalpesh Patel    Active Dental – Frisco | Flower Mound | Prosper | Irving | Plano 

How a Periodontist Can Help with Serious Gum Disease  By Dr. Kalpesh Patel  Hey, let’s talk about gum. Not the bubble kind—the ones holding your teeth in place.  If your gums bleed when you brush, feel tender, or have pulled away from your teeth like they’re on strike, that’s not just “getting older” or “being tired.” It could be gum disease, and it’s more common than you’d think.  And that’s where a periodontist comes in.  So, What’s a Periodontist Anyway? Think of a periodontist as the expert for all things gum. They’re dental pros who specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing gum disease and other issues that affect the structures supporting your teeth.  Basically, if your gums are acting up or your jawbone getting involved, a periodontist is who you want in your corner.  Signs Your Gums Might Need Serious Backup If you’ve noticed any of these, your gums might be waving a red flag:       Bleeding when brushing or flossing  Swollen, tender, or dark red gums  Persistent bad breath (that mint can’t fix)  Receding gumlines  Loose or shifting teeth  Pain when chewing    These symptoms often start quietly—but they don’t stay quiet. And left untreated, gum disease can lead to bone loss, infections, or even tooth loss.  What Does a Periodontist Actually Do? Glad you asked. When you visit a periodontist, here’s what goes down:  Gum Evaluation  They check your gums and bone structure thoroughly to see what’s really going on beneath the surface.  Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)  This isn’t your average dental cleaning. It targets plaque and tartar below the gumline to help stop the infection in its tracks.  Gum Surgery (If Needed)  For advanced cases, surgery may be needed to clean out deep pockets of bacteria, reshape gums, or even restore lost tissue.  Dental Implants  If gum disease has already taken a toll on your teeth, a periodontist can also help restore your smile with implants.  Ongoing Maintenance  Periodontists don’t just fix problems—they help prevent them from coming back with a customized care plan.    Real Talk from Dr. Kalpesh Patel: Gum disease doesn’t always shout—but it can quietly impact your overall health, from heart issues to diabetes.  If your gums fall off, don’t wait. Early treatment means easier care and a better shot at saving your natural teeth.  At Active Dental Frisco , we’ve got the expertise to keep your gums strong and pain-free.  See you soon.  – Dr. Kalpesh Patel  Active Dental 

Root Canals Without the Fear: How Modern Tech Makes Treatment Easier Hi there! Dr. Kalpesh Patel here. I know what you’re thinking – “root canal” sounds about as fun as a trip to the DMV. But let me tell you a secret: modern dentistry has completely transformed this procedure. With today’s technology, what used to be a dreaded experience is now often quicker and more comfortable than getting a filling!  Why Would You Need a Root Canal? Before we talk about the tech, let’s be honest about “why” this treatment exists. When a tooth’s inner nerve gets infected (usually from deep decay or cracks), it’s like having a tiny fire inside your tooth – painful and potentially dangerous. In the past, the only solution was removal. Now? We can save your natural teeth comfortably. That’s worth celebrating!   Your High-Tech Root Canal Experience    Here’s what you can expect from today’s advanced approaches:   Digital Scans – Your Tooth’s 3D Blueprint  “Imagine needing to fix plumbing but only having a blurry photo of the pipes. That’s how we used to work!”  Now, we take quick 3D images (using a machine that looks like a small CT scanner) to see every curve and canal in our teeth. No surprises mean faster, more precise treatment.    Smart Files – The Bendy Cleaning Tools Think of these as tiny, ultra-flexible pipe cleaners. Unlike the rigid instruments of old, these can navigate your tooth’s natural curves without stressing the structure. Many even have built-in sensors to tell us when they’ve reached just the right spot!    Germ-Zapping Power Washes After cleaning out the infected area, we use special rinses supercharged with:     Tiny bubbles (from ultrasonic tools) that scrub microscopic spaces     Antibacterial lasers in some cases (yes, really!) to ensure every germ is gone      Dental Microscopes – Like Working with Headlights & Binoculars   “I tell patients this is like the difference between fixing a watch with your bare hands versus having a magnifying glass and proper lighting.”  This means we can:    Find hidden canals we might have missed before    Ensure every bit of infection is removed    Preserve more healthy tooth structure      Sealing With Space-Age Materials New filling materials adapt perfectly to your tooth’s shape when warmed, creating an airtight seal that helps prevent future problems. Compare this to older methods that could leave tiny gaps – it’s like comparing caulk to duct tape!    What This Means for Your Comfort: “Here’s what my patients are happiest about:”   Often completed in just 1-2 visits   Most report the procedure feels like getting a filling     Recovery is typically easier than with old methods     Success rates above 90% when using these technologies    Next Steps If You’re Nervous I get it – dental anxiety is real! Here’s my advice:    Ask your dentist about:      3D imaging options       Microscopic treatments       Rotary instrument systems      Many offices now offer: Relaxation options (like noise-canceling headphones)    Sedation choices for extra-nervous patients    Remember: Avoiding a needed root canal treatment usually leads to worse pain, possible spread of infection, and ultimately losing the tooth. With today’s technology, we can make saving your teeth far more comfortable than ever before.     Still have questions? I’m always happy to explain more – just call or schedule a consultation! Your comfort and understanding are just as important as the technical aspects of your care.    Wishing you happy, healthy teeth,    Dr. Kalpesh Patel.  P.S. – If you’ve been putting off treatment because of fear, let’s chat. I promise, modern root canals are nothing like what your parents or grandparents experienced! 

What to Do If Your Root Canal Tooth Breaks: A Simple Guide After more than 10 years of treating dental patients, one of the most common and surprising questions I hear is: “Why did my tooth break after a root canal?” It’s frustrating for patients to expect the tooth to be strong again. But root canal-treated teeth can become brittle over time. The good news? A broken tooth doesn’t always mean it’s beyond repair.  Why did my tooth break after a root canal? It’s a fair question—and a frustrating situation. You go through the root canal, hoping to save the tooth and avoid more problems… then suddenly, crack! It chips, fractures, or breaks completely. Don’t panic—this doesn’t always mean the end of the road for that tooth.  In this guide, we’ll break down:  Why Did It Break? Once a root canal clears out the tooth inner pulp, it’s sealed tight, but it misses out on natural strength from within. Without a protective crown, it’s weaker. Big fillings or old decay can make it fragile, too. Maybe you crunched a hard nut or piece of ice, or time just took its toll. That’s why these teeth can crack or chip.  Spotting the Trouble If something falls off, don’t brush it aside. You might notice sharp pain when chewing, see a clear chip or crack, or feel sensitivity to hot or cold. Swollen or sore gums near the tooth, or an odd sensation when biting, are clues, too. Catch these signs early and reach out to your dentist pronto to boost your odds of saving it.  Fixing the Problem Good news: solutions exist!For a small chip or break, a crown often steps in to shield and strengthen the tooth, offering long-term protection. In tougher cases—like a crack that runs deep below the gumline—your dentist may need to remove the tooth and recommend a bridge or dental implant. They’ll assess the damage, possibly take an X-ray, and map out the best fix for you. Before You Get to the Dentist While you wait for your visit, take it easy. Skip chewing on that side to avoid worse damage. Rinse gently with warm salt water to keep things clean. If pain pops up, an over-the-counter med like ibuprofen can help. Stick to soft bites, think soup, yogurt and dodge anything hard, sticky, or loaded with sugar.  Keeping It Strong Moving Forward You have this in your power! After a root canal, always get a crown, especially on back teeth that chew hard. Quit using teeth to crack open snacks or packages. Regular dental checkups catch issues early, and if you grind your teeth at night, a custom nightguard from your dentist can be a game-changer.  You’re Not Alone A busted root canal tooth can rattle anyone, but quick action turns the tide. At Active Dental Frisco, we’re ready to roll with expert care, getting your smile solid again—whether it’s a quick patch or a bigger plan. Don’t wait if it feels wrong. Schedule with us today, and let’s bring that tooth back to life together! 

Post-Dental Implant Recovery: What’s Normal and What’s Not Getting dental implants is a big step in bringing back your confident smile. But once the procedure is done, it’s natural to wonder— “Is everything going as it should?”  Here’s what you can typically expect after dental implant surgery   What’s Normal After Dental Implants? Mild Pain or Discomfort: Some soreness in your jaw or gums is completely normal for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers usually help manage it.  Swelling: Don’t be alarmed if your cheeks or jaw swell a little within 2–3 days of the procedure. This is a common part of healing.  Slight Bleeding: A small amount of bleeding at the implant site is expected during the first couple of hours after surgery.  Bruising: You may notice bruising on your gums or cheeks. It should fade within a week.  Temporary Difficulty Chewing or Speaking: Your mouth might feel sensitive or awkward at first. Stick to soft foods and give your body a few days to adjust.  What’s Not Normal? While some discomfort is part of the healing process, trust your instincts. Unusual pain, persistent bleeding, or signs of infection-like pus or fever are red flags. If something feels off, don’t wait—get in touch with your dentist.  Conclusion Some side effects are part of healing—but if anything feels unusual, it’s best to check in. At Active Dental Frisco , we guide you through every step of your implant journey and make sure your recovery stays on track. Not sure about your healing process, give us a call—we’re always here to help you smile with confidence.

What Vitamin Deficiency Causes Brown Spots on Teeth? Brown spots on teeth can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor oral hygiene, fluorosis, trauma, or certain foods and drinks. In some cases, vitamin defects—especially vitamin D—can play a role in tooth staining and enamel defects.  How Vitamin D Affects Teeth If you are poor in vitamin D, your teeth may not develop properly or may not maintain their strength. This can result in:  Weak enamel  Increased attenuation risk  Enamel development defects can appear as brown or white spots.  Do Other Vitamin Functions Work in the Teeth? Yes. Vitamin D is most directly connected to enamel development and mineralization, but other vitamin deficiencies can also affect oral health:  Vitamin C: The lack of it can affect tooth stability but usually does not directly cause brown spots.  Vitamin A: Important for saliva production and tissue repair. Its deficiency results in a dry mouth and increases plaque cultivation.  Calcium (not a vitamin, but a mineral): Low calcium levels cause weaker enamel and make it more sensitive to discoloration and decay.  Conclusion Vitamin D deficiency can contribute to brown spots on teeth due to the weakening of tooth enamel, but that is not the only cause. Maintaining a balanced diet, excellent oral hygiene, and regular dental examinations are the best ways to keep your smile healthy and bright.  If you are worried about brown spots or suspect a defect, plan an Active Dental Frisco visit. We will help you to reveal the cause and restore your smile with professional care tailored just for you.

Invisalign vs. Invisalign Go: Which Option Is Best for You? Considering clear aligners for your smile transformation? Understanding the key differences between Invisalign’s two main treatment options will help you make an informed decision about which is right for your dental needs.  Invisalign: Complete Orthodontic Correction Best for: Significant dental issues including severe misalignment, bite problems (overbites, underbites, crossbites), wide gaps, and major crowding.  Treatment length: 12-24 months with 20-22 hours of daily wear.  Key benefit: Addresses comprehensive orthodontic issues affecting your entire mouth, including functional bite correction.  Invisalign Go: Focused Smile Enhancement Best for: Mild to moderate alignment issues limited to front teeth, minor spacing concerns, and aesthetic improvements.  Treatment length: Just 3-6 months for visible results.  Key benefit: Faster, more affordable option focusing specifically on your visible smile zone.  Important Differences to Consider Treatment scope: Invisalign corrects comprehensive issues throughout your mouth, while Invisalign Go focuses primarily on front teeth visible when smiling.  Timeline: Invisalign requires a longer commitment (1-2 years), whereas Invisalign Go delivers results in a fraction of the time (3-6 months).  Investment: Invisalign typically costs more due to its extensive capabilities, while Invisalign Go offers a more budget-friendly option.  Aligner sequence: Full Invisalign often requires numerous aligner sets, while Invisalign Go uses fewer trays (typically under 20).  Conclusion For personalized guidance on which Invisalign treatment best suits your unique smile goals, schedule a consultation with Active Dental Frisco  today.