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

Do fillings hurt without anesthesia?

Everyone's sensitivity level is different. The depth of the cavity and the health of the nerve affect how sensitive things would be. A well-trained dental professional can keep READ MORE
Everyone's sensitivity level is different. The depth of the cavity and the health of the nerve affect how sensitive things would be. A well-trained dental professional can keep you very comfortable when they numb you. I recommend numbing for fillings!

How long does it take to recover from TMJ surgery?

Your surgeon, who knows the exact procedure that will be done, could give you the best information.

How often should teeth be deep cleaned?

The frequency of deep cleaning depends on the body's build-up of tartar or calculus, and on your home care routine. Some people need it frequently, some never need it. (Soft toothbrush, READ MORE
The frequency of deep cleaning depends on the body's build-up of tartar or calculus, and on your home care routine. Some people need it frequently, some never need it. (Soft toothbrush, floss, and whatever other tools your dental team has recommended for you helps keep it less frequent. Yes, I did say something to clean between the teeth - hopefully floss.)

What causes gum recession?

There can be multiple causes of gum recession. Excessive grinding force on the teeth (during sideways motions) is one of the main causes. Too hard a toothbrush, scrubbing too hard, READ MORE
There can be multiple causes of gum recession. Excessive grinding force on the teeth (during sideways motions) is one of the main causes. Too hard a toothbrush, scrubbing too hard, excess toothpaste, inflamed gums can all contribute to recession as well.

How can I get used to partial dentures fast?

Keep wearing the partial dentures. Do not overdo by eating hard or chewy foods right away. Reading aloud is good to overcome any speech issues. See your dentist for adjustments READ MORE
Keep wearing the partial dentures. Do not overdo by eating hard or chewy foods right away. Reading aloud is good to overcome any speech issues. See your dentist for adjustments before anything gets extremely sore.

Are you asleep for wisdom teeth removal?

You and your oral surgeon or dentist will determine that. Your preference, the length and shape of the roots, and sometimes finances are all considerations.

What's the shortest time to have Invisalign?

It depends on how much needs to be corrected. Minimal corrections might be complete within 6 months. Ask the dentist/orthodontist who will be providing your care for better information. READ MORE
It depends on how much needs to be corrected. Minimal corrections might be complete within 6 months. Ask the dentist/orthodontist who will be providing your care for better information.

How long does teeth bleaching last?

People need to"touch up" the lightening. Some people wear their custom lightening trays 1 day a month, some 1 week a year. It partly depends on the original shade of your teeth READ MORE
People need to"touch up" the lightening. Some people wear their custom lightening trays 1 day a month, some 1 week a year. It partly depends on the original shade of your teeth and the shade you want.

What destroys the enamel on your teeth?

Several things can destroy enamel. Acid whether from food, bacteria, or reflux can dissolve enamel. Biting force can also rub away enamel.

Which is quicker Invisalign or braces?

Probably braces, but the best thing would be to ask the orthodontist or dentist which they'd recommend for your needs.

How many times can you have a root canal on the same tooth?

A root canal can be retreated. These days having a 3D X-ray of the tooth to try and determine why the root canal failed is the state of the art. The 3D image can show problems READ MORE
A root canal can be retreated. These days having a 3D X-ray of the tooth to try and determine why the root canal failed is the state of the art. The 3D image can show problems that are not visible on regular 2D X-rays. Some of those problems cannot be treated by root canal.

Can I brush my teeth after a filling?

Yes! Just be careful if you are still numb, you don't want to scrub your gums, especially if you cannot feel what you are doing. Occasionally, gums can feel irritated after a filling. READ MORE
Yes! Just be careful if you are still numb, you don't want to scrub your gums, especially if you cannot feel what you are doing. Occasionally, gums can feel irritated after a filling. Keeping your mouth very clean helps everything heal faster. Brush (and floss).

Can you kiss someone with a tooth infection?

Can you? Yes. Can infections spread from one person to another? Yes. So, is it a good idea??? Hopefully, partners are concerned with each other's health and don't spread infections. READ MORE
Can you? Yes. Can infections spread from one person to another? Yes. So, is it a good idea??? Hopefully, partners are concerned with each other's health and don't spread infections. Instead, they get the infection treated.

How do I know if my dentures fit properly?

A dentist could evaluate them for you (and should do an annual exam to make sure your gums, jaw, and tongue are healthy). Do the dentures wobble when they are in your mouth if READ MORE
A dentist could evaluate them for you (and should do an annual exam to make sure your gums, jaw, and tongue are healthy). Do the dentures wobble when they are in your mouth if you push on one side then the other? Do the teeth look worn down?

How long after getting dentures can I eat solid food?

How many teeth needed to be extracted? How much jaw bone or "ridge" is supporting the denture? The first few days should be very soft food, no chewing needed. As you get more comfortable, READ MORE
How many teeth needed to be extracted? How much jaw bone or "ridge" is supporting the denture? The first few days should be very soft food, no chewing needed. As you get more comfortable, you can progress to soft white fish or pasta.

How do you clean all on four dental implants?

The dentist who placed it should help you find the best cleaning tools. A water flosser is often a good addition to brushing and floss or mini in-between cleaners.

Why do I see some blood when I floss?

Bleeding gums are a sign of infection. If you have a professional cleaning, then start daily flossing, the bleeding should stop within 2 weeks.

Should you wet your toothbrush before brushing?

I always had until I lived someplace with bad water. It doesn't make any difference. It doesn't soften the bristles (use SOFT bristles).

When can I start eating normal food after dentures?

Were your teeth just extracted? Follow your dentist's or oral surgeon's advice if so. Otherwise, start with very soft foods, take two tiny pieces, try and chew evenly on both sides. READ MORE
Were your teeth just extracted? Follow your dentist's or oral surgeon's advice if so. Otherwise, start with very soft foods, take two tiny pieces, try and chew evenly on both sides. As you master yogurt, scrambled eggs, and mashed potatoes, you can progress to tuna salad, Gradually adding soft fish, stewed meat, or chicken.

How do you treat an exposed root of a tooth?

Is it sensitive? How much of the root is exposed? Is it unsightly? I would first want to try and determine why the gum receded. Toothbrush issues and biting issues can cause gum READ MORE
Is it sensitive? How much of the root is exposed? Is it unsightly? I would first want to try and determine why the gum receded. Toothbrush issues and biting issues can cause gum recession. Trying to minimize future recession hopefully. For sensitivity, your dentist can apply one of several medicaments. A gum specialist or periodontist may be able to readjust the gum to the correct height or add a gum graft.