expert type icon EXPERT

Charles Straughan, D.M.D.

Dentist

<p>Dr. Charles Straughan is a General Dentist practicing in Mooresville, NC. Dr. Straughan specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. He is trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, endodontic, implant and additional oral surgery procedures, among many others.</p>
10 years Experience
Charles Straughan, D.M.D.
  • Charlotte, NC
  • Medical College of Georgia
  • Accepting new patients

How can I make my wisdom teeth heal faster?

The fastest way to have wisdom teeth heal is by using Peridex oral rinse 2 times per day for a minimum of 1 minute rinse and using salt water rinse 3-5 times per day. This along READ MORE
The fastest way to have wisdom teeth heal is by using Peridex oral rinse 2 times per day for a minimum of 1 minute rinse and using salt water rinse 3-5 times per day. This along with keeping the area clean and eating soft foods will help move things along faster.

What foods should I avoid after a tooth extraction?

You want to avoid any small foods such as rice, sharp foods such as chips, sticky food such as caramel, and hot foods while you are numb. These things can further traumatize the READ MORE
You want to avoid any small foods such as rice, sharp foods such as chips, sticky food such as caramel, and hot foods while you are numb. These things can further traumatize the tissue or dislodge the blood clot/healing trying to form.

How long does it take to get your dentures replaced?

It takes about 4-6 weeks to have dentures replaced.

Are dental implants safe to have?

Yes, they have been around for 70+ years with great advancements in their technology. I believe they are the standard of care for patients replacing teeth that have enough bone READ MORE
Yes, they have been around for 70+ years with great advancements in their technology. I believe they are the standard of care for patients replacing teeth that have enough bone and are in good health. Each patient is unique, but for the majority of patients they are very safe and a very good option.

How can I help my cracked tooth?

While on vacation, the best thing to do is avoid hard foods and chewing on that side. Take some pain medication such as Ibuprofen to help ease the pain and if possible you can READ MORE
While on vacation, the best thing to do is avoid hard foods and chewing on that side. Take some pain medication such as Ibuprofen to help ease the pain and if possible you can schedule with a dentist in the area.

How can I quickly close the gaps in my teeth?

Traditional braces are usually the fastest way but new techniques such as Invisalign are clear retainers that provide a fast, steady and more aesthetic approach

How often should I clean my dentures?

At minimum, dentures should be cleaned every night. However, if food is being caught under the dentures after you eat, it is a good idea to also clean them after every time you READ MORE
At minimum, dentures should be cleaned every night. However, if food is being caught under the dentures after you eat, it is a good idea to also clean them after every time you eat.

Are there any downsides to dental implants?

For healthy adults with plenty of bone, implants are the best options available. The downside is it take about 3-4 months from time of placement to having a tooth in the space. READ MORE
For healthy adults with plenty of bone, implants are the best options available. The downside is it take about 3-4 months from time of placement to having a tooth in the space. Another downside is possible implant complications that can occur if not properly cleaned/maintained with routine dental care.

Does charcoal really whiten teeth?

Yes, this does work. It is not recommended as the charcoal is very abrasive and actually removes some of the enamel each time it is used. Enamel is the outer layer of the tooth READ MORE
Yes, this does work. It is not recommended as the charcoal is very abrasive and actually removes some of the enamel each time it is used. Enamel is the outer layer of the tooth and once removed it doesn't come back.

What does throbbing tooth pain mean?

Usually throbbing tooth pain means that there is some kind of nerve involvement with the tooth. This could be decay(bacteria) has reached the pulp or a fracture into the pulp. READ MORE
Usually throbbing tooth pain means that there is some kind of nerve involvement with the tooth. This could be decay(bacteria) has reached the pulp or a fracture into the pulp. In both situation, the tooth needs to be treated with either a root canal or extraction.

What is a bone graft?

Bone graft is bone material taken from either your own bone, cadaver bone, or synthetic bone. It is used to fill the space when a tooth is extracted or used to expand the space READ MORE
Bone graft is bone material taken from either your own bone, cadaver bone, or synthetic bone. It is used to fill the space when a tooth is extracted or used to expand the space when the bone is insufficient to place the implant. The bone graft keeps the soft tissue from growing in the area, allowing for your own bone to fill in and give a good foundation for the future implant.

Can I still use mouthwash with a temporary crown?

Mouthwash is perfectly fine to use with a temporary crown. The cleaner you can keep the temporary crown, the less inflammation and bleeding occurs when placing the permanent crown. READ MORE
Mouthwash is perfectly fine to use with a temporary crown. The cleaner you can keep the temporary crown, the less inflammation and bleeding occurs when placing the permanent crown.

Why are my teeth decaying so fast?

There are a number of reasons for tooth decay. Decay is determined by 50/50, genetic and environment. That being said, teeth being more susceptible to tooth decay could be inherited READ MORE
There are a number of reasons for tooth decay. Decay is determined by 50/50, genetic and environment. That being said, teeth being more susceptible to tooth decay could be inherited from your parents. The other aspect is your diet and cleaning routine. Diet high in soda, sweets, or sticky foods can cause decay as well as not brushing and flossing on a regular basis(oral hygiene).

Can sinus infections cause tooth pain?

Yes, pressure from a sinus infection can cause tooth pain or sensitivity. Usually this can be treated with antibiotics.