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Thomas Scott Barton, DDS

Dentist

Dr. Thomas Scott Barton is a Dentist practicing in San Antonio Texas. Dr. Barton 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. Barton is also experienced in comprehensive orthodontics and dental implants.
Learn More About Me
35 years Experience
T. Scott Barton, DDS
  • San Antonio, TX
  • The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
  • Accepting new patients

How soon after extraction can I get an implant?

Many times, you can have an implant placed at the time of the extraction. However, if there was pathology or infection that caused the need for extraction, then it is not advised. READ MORE
Many times, you can have an implant placed at the time of the extraction. However, if there was pathology or infection that caused the need for extraction, then it is not advised. If the extraction site was grafted, then usually about 12 weeks. If it was not grafted and left alone to heal, it could take up to six months or more, then still likely need some bone grafting when the implant is placed. Your dentist should be able to advise you based on the site and the healing process.

Is getting a crown done under local anesthesia?

Like most dental procedures, you will be more comfortable with a local anesthetic. There are several different makeups of local anesthetics. Talk to your doctor about what your READ MORE
Like most dental procedures, you will be more comfortable with a local anesthetic. There are several different makeups of local anesthetics. Talk to your doctor about what your sensitive experience has been so that they can advise and consider.

Do you need a root canal before a crown?

Generally speaking, most teeth that need crowns do not need a root canal. However, most teeth That have been treated with root canal, will need a crown. Teeth that need root canals READ MORE
Generally speaking, most teeth that need crowns do not need a root canal. However, most teeth That have been treated with root canal, will need a crown. Teeth that need root canals have associated pathology, infection and or pain inside the pump chamber of the tooth. Your dentist will be able to explain your situation and your needs

Do cavity fillings weaken teeth?

Good question. It’s not the filling that weakens the tooth, it’s the decay which if not removed and replaced would eventually cause severe damage, infection or loss of the tooth. READ MORE
Good question. It’s not the filling that weakens the tooth, it’s the decay which if not removed and replaced would eventually cause severe damage, infection or loss of the tooth. Some decay that is removed might be substantial enough that a tooth may require a crown.

Talk to your dentist about what would be the best solution for the proper needs of a tooth restoration.

How do you relieve tooth pain from Invisalign?

Invisalign is typically not a painful process. I differentiate pain from “soreness “ which is what the orthodontic process can do. The soreness shouldn’t last more than 1-3 days READ MORE
Invisalign is typically not a painful process. I differentiate pain from “soreness “ which is what the orthodontic process can do. The soreness shouldn’t last more than 1-3 days after a new aligner and gets even better the more you get used to them. For soreness I would recommend regular Tylenol for more acute pain I would recommend talking to your provider.

Is there a way to straighten your teeth without braces?

There are at least two or three clear products out there available to straighten teeth. I would not recommend a “ do it yourself “ type. While they may look similar, they are in READ MORE
There are at least two or three clear products out there available to straighten teeth. I would not recommend a “ do it yourself “ type. While they may look similar, they are in fact not . Invisalign has been around the longest and is years ahead in the technology of their product. Get on their website and locate a provider in your area and go for a consultation. Most of the time they are complimentary.

Can a cavity cause tooth loss?

Certainly a cavity left untreated would reach the ultimate end being loss of the tooth. Depending on diet, hygiene and tooth surface, would take many months or even a year or more READ MORE
Certainly a cavity left untreated would reach the ultimate end being loss of the tooth. Depending on diet, hygiene and tooth surface, would take many months or even a year or more to reach that point. However, the longer you wait to treat, the higher risk of infection and acute pain. Also treatment options become more expensive.


How many implants are needed for a full mouth?

In many cases, the minimum number of implants for full fixed reconstruction would be four implants in each arch for a total of eight. However if bone support permits,most dentists READ MORE
In many cases, the minimum number of implants for full fixed reconstruction would be four implants in each arch for a total of eight. However if bone support permits,most dentists may prefer six and six for more functional stability And long term predictability.
Always ask questions and understand what your recommendations may be. Not an issue to also seek a second opinion for peace of mind in your decision.

How do dentists remove crowns?

Most dentists have some sort of crown removing device, however, it doesn’t always work without some damage to the crown and we certainly don’t want to harm your tooth. Most crowns, READ MORE
Most dentists have some sort of crown removing device, however, it doesn’t always work without some damage to the crown and we certainly don’t want to harm your tooth. Most crowns, once cemented, don’t come off easily on purpose. Most often, to remove a crown, the dentist will make some small slits up the side and use a tool to leverage it away from the tooth.

How do you sleep with Invisalign?

You should be able to sleep normally with the aligners in place. If it is a process of getting used to, then I suggest to take an OTC Benadryl which will make you a little drowsy READ MORE
You should be able to sleep normally with the aligners in place. If it is a process of getting used to, then I suggest to take an OTC Benadryl which will make you a little drowsy and thus easier to fall asleep with the aligners on.

Can you get braces if you need fillings?

You can get braces before fillings but depends on where the decay is. You don't want to put a bracket on the surface of a tooth that also has decay. It is prudent, however, to READ MORE
You can get braces before fillings but depends on where the decay is. You don't want to put a bracket on the surface of a tooth that also has decay. It is prudent, however, to start orthodontic treatment on a clean cavity free mouth.

Can children use a Waterpik?

It is certainly OK and healthy for a child to use a waterpik. I would recommend some supervision or they can waterpik the cat and the dog and the bathroom mirror.

How long does it take to get a tooth pulled?

It totally depends on the individual tooth and the location in the mouth. Routine extractions once anesthesia is administered can literally only take a minute or two.

Are there any natural remedies for dry mouth?

There are many medications that can cause dry mouth as well as a variety of radiation and chemotherapy treatments. Biotene is an over the counter mouthwash and toothpaste that READ MORE
There are many medications that can cause dry mouth as well as a variety of radiation and chemotherapy treatments.
Biotene is an over the counter mouthwash and toothpaste that can combat dry mouth symptoms. I would also recommend seeing your dentist regularly and getting a prescription fluoride toothpaste or gel to aid in combatting cavities that can readily occur with dry mouth.

Can a tooth abscess be seen on an X-ray?

Tooth abscesses can be detected on xrays. They can have associated symptoms or not sometimes. They can have oral manifestations such as draining pus or swelling in the mouth READ MORE
Tooth abscesses can be detected on xrays. They can have associated symptoms or not sometimes. They can have oral manifestations such as draining pus or swelling in the mouth or jaw. Antibiotics is usually the first course of treatment followed by appropriate treatment of the tooth or cause. On a 9 year old there would likely be obvious decay on a tooth also seen on an x-ray. Other possible causes could involve some primary or baby teeth. Your dentist should be able to determine whether there is an infection or not and advise necessary treatment.

I had some bleeding in my gums while brushing. Could it be serious?

I tell all of my patients "healthy gums don't bleed". If you have bleeding in spots, it is likely localized gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). Typically caused by plaque accumulations READ MORE
I tell all of my patients "healthy gums don't bleed". If you have bleeding in spots, it is likely localized gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). Typically caused by plaque accumulations which contain bacteria or sometimes a foreign body or food caught between the teeth or under the gums. If it continues untreated for a long period of time can lead to a more severe periodontitis, which causes bone loss around the teeth and can lead to eventual tooth loss. In early stages can be completely treated and reversed. Time for a check up with your dentist and hygienist, (which is recommended every six months)

Are electric toothbrushes any better for the teeth?

What is important is good and effective plaque removal and gum stimulation. This can typically be done with regular tooth brushing. With that said, in my opinion, the best mechanical READ MORE
What is important is good and effective plaque removal and gum stimulation. This can typically be done with regular tooth brushing. With that said, in my opinion, the best mechanical tooth brushes out there are the Crest Oral B and the Sonicare. The Oral B is a good overall and if you want to get real "nerdy" has a phone app that connects to the brush. I recommend the sonicare for my patients who tend to build up more tartar/calculus between dental visits. These products can typically be purchased online or through your dentist.

Is oil pulling ever recommended by dentists?

This oral therapy is a type of Ayurvedic medicine [a traditional Indian system] that dates back more 3,000 years, It typically involves swishing approximately 1 tablespoon of oil READ MORE
This oral therapy is a type of Ayurvedic medicine [a traditional Indian system] that dates back more 3,000 years, It typically involves swishing approximately 1 tablespoon of oil -- typically coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil -- in your mouth for about 20 minutes and then spitting it out. Thereby "pulling" the oil between your teeth and gums. It is mainly suited to reduce the bacteria in the mouth most commonly causing gingivitis. While 20 minutes is a long time you may begin with just 5 minutes a day. Don't eliminate brushing and flossing. Oil pulling should never replace routine dental visits and regular home oral care. It doesn't reverse the effects of tooth decay, but it's a good homeopathic supplemental therapy.

How should I select my toothpaste?

I agree there are a lot of products out there to choose from. If you have seen your dentist for regular check ups and have no issues, then select whatever brand, flavor, price READ MORE
I agree there are a lot of products out there to choose from. If you have seen your dentist for regular check ups and have no issues, then select whatever brand, flavor, price you like. If you are more prone to sensitivity like cold, then a toothpaste geared toward reducing sensitivity is better. One such product is Sensodyne. If one is more prone to decay, dry mouth, been treated for cancer with chemo or radiation, then a prescription strength fluoridated toothpaste may be in order. Ask your treating dentist which would be right for you.

What is the right age to get braces for my child?

I tell my patients that there is not a typical "age" for orthodontic treatment but a need. This can start as early as six or seven or it may be appropriate to wait until all adult READ MORE
I tell my patients that there is not a typical "age" for orthodontic treatment but a need. This can start as early as six or seven or it may be appropriate to wait until all adult teeth have erupted around twelve or thirteen. Early treatment is usually reserved to treat or intercept certain conditions, like preservation of space due to a premature baby tooth loss, cross bite, arch development (widening of the palate) , or many other conditions. Check with your dentist and always ask questions and sometimes in early cases it is good to also get a second opinion.