expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Brenda D. Berkal

Dentist

Dr. Brenda Berkal is a Dentist practicing in Derry, New Hampshire. Dr. Berkal specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic procedures, and performing examinations, among many others.
Dr. Brenda D. Berkal
  • Derry, New Hampshire
  • Tufts University
  • Accepting new patients

Are dental bridges permanent?

Not much that is man-made, especially in as harsh an environment as the mouth, is permanent. A bridge should be long lasting. How well you clean the bridge. how often you have READ MORE
Not much that is man-made, especially in as harsh an environment as the mouth, is permanent. A bridge should be long lasting. How well you clean the bridge. how often you have it professionally cleaned, and the strength of your bite influence the durability.

Are zirconia crowns strong?

There are different formulations of zirconia crowns. Some are very strong. Ask your dentist if there crown will be 3Y or 5Y

Can pinhole gum surgery fix gum recession around the crown?

Pinhole gum surgery can bring the gum back to a level closer to the crown of the tooth. It cannot cover the edge of a crown. It can move the gum several millimeters, not an inch. READ MORE
Pinhole gum surgery can bring the gum back to a level closer to the crown of the tooth. It cannot cover the edge of a crown. It can move the gum several millimeters, not an inch.

How long is the crown replacement procedure?

Asking your dentist will give you the most accurate answer. Knowing the condition of your tooth helps. Every dentist works at a different pace. Some dentists mill the crown in READ MORE
Asking your dentist will give you the most accurate answer. Knowing the condition of your tooth helps. Every dentist works at a different pace. Some dentists mill the crown in their offices. Others sent out to have a lab make the crown. All those factors affect the appointment time.

Can Invisalign fix crooked bottom teeth?

The short answer is yes! How crowded? Are the gums healthy?

What to avoid after a bonne graft?

I'm having bone graft surgery today. My periodontist is having me avoid toothbrushing the area for 2 weeks! (I'm having a hard time with that idea.) I have an extra soft brush READ MORE
I'm having bone graft surgery today. My periodontist is having me avoid toothbrushing the area for 2 weeks! (I'm having a hard time with that idea.) I have an extra soft brush for when I can brush. I will be rinsing with chlorhexidine gluconate twice a day. Soft diet. If you can't take ibuprofen, take it for 4 days whenever or not to are in pain. If you can't take it, discuss that with your doctor beforehand

How long will my jaw be swollen after the implant?

Every person heals somewhat differently. Your surgeon can give you a better idea. Typically less than a week of swelling.

What toothbrush to use for a gum recession?

Any soft or extrasoft toothbrush would be ok I recommend electric toothbrushes. A small brush is preferable, especially if the gum is at different heights

How to maintain a zirconia crown?

Brush it, floss it, and have professional dental cleanings. Try NOT to clench or grind your teeth

Can I straighten only 2 teeth?

If there is space next to the two crowded teeth you could. If the neighboring teeth are right up against the crowded teeth, then more teeth need to be involved

Simple Tooth extraction

Did your surgeon give you instructions? It will take months for the gum to smooth out. The bone underneath grows slowly. The " divot" should keep gradually getting smaller. Typically READ MORE
Did your surgeon give you instructions? It will take months for the gum to smooth out. The bone underneath grows slowly. The " divot" should keep gradually getting smaller. Typically it's fine to drink anything at this point. If you feel food stick in the socket after you eat, then continue to rinse.

How should I clean and take care of an implant?

Care for the first week or two should be very gentle. Follow the instructions from your surgeon. Frequently an antimicrobial mouthwash is prescribed for 2 weeks

Can I chew gum with braces?

It is NOT recommended to chew gum with braces. Brackets or attachments can become dislodged. That can be uncomfortable, and can delay your treatment.

Can I drink alcohol with an implant?

Safe, moderate alcohol consumption now should be ok for the implant.

Does molar implant surgery hurt?

You should not feel any pain during the surgery. Some mouth discomfort is normal for a couple of days after. I personally received three implants last winter. I was awake during READ MORE
You should not feel any pain during the surgery. Some mouth discomfort is normal for a couple of days after. I personally received three implants last winter. I was awake during the surgery. I am a wimp. I was absolutely fine.

How many days does it take to get a crown?

Some dentists can prepare a tooth for a crown, and place the crown the same day! The Computer Aided Design, Computer Aided Manufacture crown process is amazing, and very accurate. READ MORE
Some dentists can prepare a tooth for a crown, and place the crown the same day! The Computer Aided Design, Computer Aided Manufacture crown process is amazing, and very accurate. If the crown is sent out to a lab, it can take a month. You would have a provisional crown during that time.

How long does it take to start seeing results from Invisalign treatment?

Slow movement is much safer than rapid tooth movement. It depends on the conditions that needed correcting. Ask your orthodontist/dentist what to expect.

How should I clean my zirconia crowns?

Brush & floss like natural teeth. Avoid very abrasive toothpaste

Can veneers cause sensitivity?

If your teeth are not sensitive prior to veneers, well planned, well done veneers should not cause sensitivity. Sometimes there is a day of gum irritation when the preparation READ MORE
If your teeth are not sensitive prior to veneers, well planned, well done veneers should not cause sensitivity. Sometimes there is a day of gum irritation when the preparation is done.

Can implant infection be fixed?

Usually it can. See your dentist or surgeon soon