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

Does gingivitis go away?

With professional dental cleanings and thorough daily brushing and flossing, gingivitis can generally be controlled or reversed. If the infection has progressed to the stage with READ MORE
With professional dental cleanings and thorough daily brushing and flossing, gingivitis can generally be controlled or reversed. If the infection has progressed to the stage with bone loss, or periodontitis, it can be managed, but never reversed or cured.

Are wisdom tooth abscesses very painful?

Typically, straw use should be avoided *after* an extraction. Suction can remove the clot (or scab) from the socket where the root had been. That condition is known as "dry socket" READ MORE
Typically, straw use should be avoided *after* an extraction. Suction can remove the clot (or scab) from the socket where the root had been. That condition is known as "dry socket" and is typically extremely painful. Placement of the correct medication by a dentist in the socket provides almost immediate relief. Any teeth, including wisdom teeth, can get an abscess of the nerve or of the gum around the tooth. No abscess feels good.

Can a gap in front teeth be fixed?

As long as the gums are healthy. Yes! Your dentist can help determine if braces, bonding, crowns, or veneers are your best option.

Are dentures toxic to the body?

No reputable dentist or dental laboratory would use any toxic materials.

Can grinding your teeth cause TMJ?

While grinding your teeth during sleep, very strong forces can be placed on the teeth and jaws. Jaw damage can occur. Teeth can crack to the point that they cannot be fixed. A READ MORE
While grinding your teeth during sleep, very strong forces can be placed on the teeth and jaws. Jaw damage can occur. Teeth can crack to the point that they cannot be fixed. A dental visit would be a good idea.

Can I scrape plaque off my teeth?

Once plaque calcifies into tartar (which happens in 48 hours), it should be removed by a dental professional.

Why do I develop gum pain after drinking cold liquids?

Receded gums causing root sensitivity is quite common. Tingling gums is not common. I recommend seeing your dentist or an oral medicine specialist.

Is it normal for veneers to fall?

My first recommendation is to see if your dentist can make things right. A veneer is NOT expected to fall out so soon. Did you follow the dentist's instructions about eating?

What can I do about oral thrush?

You should see your physician or dentist

How long does swelling last after dental implants?

Every person heals differently. The extent of the surgery and your individual healing all affect swelling. Check with your surgeon if the swelling still persists.

Why does my jaw hurt after my root canal?

You can call the endodontist to ask directly. Is your jaw joint or the area around the treated tooth hurting? If you can take ibuprofen, ibuprofen plus acetaminophen (Tylenol) READ MORE
You can call the endodontist to ask directly. Is your jaw joint or the area around the treated tooth hurting? If you can take ibuprofen, ibuprofen plus acetaminophen (Tylenol) provides
the best pain relief. If your jaw joint is bothering, stick with soft foods. Avoid opening your mouth wide. See if applying cold or warm makes your jaw feel better. If the area of the tooth is sore, limiting chewing on that side is helpful. Continue to keep your mouth clean!

What happens if you get a cavity with braces?

Your dentist can evaluate if the tooth can be filled with the braces in place. If not, they will contact your orthodontist and arrange for you to have the arch wire, and anything READ MORE
Your dentist can evaluate if the tooth can be filled with the braces in place. If not, they will contact your orthodontist and arrange for you to have the arch wire, and anything else necessary removed, return to get the filling, then go back to the orthodontist to have things replaced.

What causes my tooth sensitivity?

My first recommendation is to see a dentist. There are many reasons for tooth sensitivity, only one of which is helped by anti-sensitivity toothpastes.

Should antibiotics be taken after having a root canal?

It depends. Was there facial swelling? Is the patient immunocompromised? Routine root canals do not require antibiotics. Ask your dentist.

Is wisdom teeth extraction safe under anesthetic?

What type of anesthetic? What is your general health? Your surgeon will go over your medical history and recommend anesthetic that is safe and appropriate for you, whether it is READ MORE
What type of anesthetic? What is your general health? Your surgeon will go over your medical history and recommend anesthetic that is safe and appropriate for you, whether it is local anesthetic, sedation, or deeper anesthesia.

Wisdom teeth removal concerns?

Checking in with the surgeon would be a good idea. Is the pain decreasing at all? If not, call! Keep rinsing after you eat.

Will my dry socket go away on its own?

You should see your dentist or surgeon. As the pain of a dry socket can be excruciating and there is a simple fix that brings virtually immediate relief, get the socket looked READ MORE
You should see your dentist or surgeon. As the pain of a dry socket can be excruciating and there is a simple fix that brings virtually immediate relief, get the socket looked at.

Is Invisalign as good as normal braces?

Whether aligners work as well as "traditional" braces depends on what corrections are needed. Your dentist or orthodontist should be able to give you the best recommendation.

Are sealants bad for your teeth?

Intact sealants are very good and protective for teeth. If part of the sealant has worn away or chipped, that can leave voids that are hard to clean, which would be bad. Today's READ MORE
Intact sealants are very good and protective for teeth. If part of the sealant has worn away or chipped, that can leave voids that are hard to clean, which would be bad. Today's sealants are made from safe BPA free materials.

Can you remove braces early?

It is NOT a good idea to have braces removed before the orthodontist says your teeth are properly aligned. They will not chew properly, may not look their best, and might cause READ MORE
It is NOT a good idea to have braces removed before the orthodontist says your teeth are properly aligned. They will not chew properly, may not look their best, and might cause jaw joint pain.