EXPERT
Priscilla Leary
Dentist
Dr. Priscilla Leary is a dentist practicing in Albuquerque, NM. Dr. Leary 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.
4 years
Experience
Priscilla Leary
- Albuquerque, New Mexico
- University of Texas
- Accepting new patients
Things You Should Ask at Your Dental Appointment
Going to the dentist is one of the most feared things to do. People often don’t understand what their doctor is recommending and why. If this describes you, you are not alone....
Will I get antibiotics after a root canal?
There is a high probability that your doctor will prescribe antibiotics especially if the tooth is infected. Antibiotics will help kill the bacteria causing the infection and during READ MORE
There is a high probability that your doctor will prescribe antibiotics especially if the tooth is infected. Antibiotics will help kill the bacteria causing the infection and during the root canal your doctor cleans the tooth mechanically by cleaning the pulp and shaping the canal and chemically by irrigating with medications in between. Antibiotics work killing the bacteria systemically.
How painful is a root canal?
Infected teeth are harder to numb. It helps if you start taking an antibiotic a couple of days before your root canal so that the tooth is easier to numb. You can also take ibuprofen READ MORE
Infected teeth are harder to numb. It helps if you start taking an antibiotic a couple of days before your root canal so that the tooth is easier to numb. You can also take ibuprofen 1 hour before your appointment, but make sure to take ibuprofen with food since it can tear the lining of your stomach.
When do you get a crown after a dental implant?
You have to wait about 3-4 months after the implant is placed to allow the bone to form around the implant in a process called osseointegration. Its important to allow the implant READ MORE
You have to wait about 3-4 months after the implant is placed to allow the bone to form around the implant in a process called osseointegration. Its important to allow the implant to integrate to prevent implant failure.
How long does it take for implants to fuse to the bone?
It takes 3-5 months for an implant to fully integrate into the bone depending on the location of the implant (because of the quality/density of the bone)
What can I do for gingivitis?
With gingivitis, it is very important to maintain good oral hygiene at home. Brushing and flossing go a long way! If you use a manual toothbrush you should angle it at a 45-degree READ MORE
With gingivitis, it is very important to maintain good oral hygiene at home. Brushing and flossing go a long way! If you use a manual toothbrush you should angle it at a 45-degree angle towards your gums and brush in circular motions, this way you can get in between the tooth surface and the gum - an area that retains a lot of plaque after eating. You may also opt for getting an electric toothbrush for better cleaning. Also, don't skip your 6-month cleaning appointment with your hygienist.
How can I treat an infected tooth without a root canal?
You have to get rid of the source of infection. Antibiotics are prescribed with infection, but will not permanently get rid of the infection and will reoccur. Plus just antibiotics READ MORE
You have to get rid of the source of infection. Antibiotics are prescribed with infection, but will not permanently get rid of the infection and will reoccur. Plus just antibiotics will create antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The other option besides a root canal is extraction. You may be able to get an implant later. A bride may also be an option if there is a tooth in front and behind the infected tooth. Ask your dentist about all of your options so that you can make an informed decision.
What are the options to fix an overbite?
The way to fix an overbite is with orthodontic treatment. You can do traditional braces with brackets or you may be suitable for Invisalign. I would start by visiting your dentist READ MORE
The way to fix an overbite is with orthodontic treatment. You can do traditional braces with brackets or you may be suitable for Invisalign. I would start by visiting your dentist and asking for a referral to an orthodontist or your dentist may offer Invisalign in his or her office and will examine you to see if you are a good candidate for Invisalign treatment.
Is it painful to have a crown put on your tooth?
Getting a crown is not a painful process - you get numbed much like getting a filling. Crowns are usually indicated when a root has had a root canal or a tooth is missing a large READ MORE
Getting a crown is not a painful process - you get numbed much like getting a filling. Crowns are usually indicated when a root has had a root canal or a tooth is missing a large portion of healthy tooth structure or for fractured teeth. Sensitivity is felt sometimes if the tooth is not treated with a root canal. A little sensitivity may be normal, but if you experience pain or an unusually amount of sensitivity, you should call your dentist to take a look at your temporary crown. The bite may be high or part of the temporary crown may have come off.
What helps swollen gums after tooth extraction?
This is normal. Salt water rinses help, but be sure not to spit, use straws or do any type of sucking to avoid dislodging the clot that is forming. Also refrain from smoking since READ MORE
This is normal. Salt water rinses help, but be sure not to spit, use straws or do any type of sucking to avoid dislodging the clot that is forming. Also refrain from smoking since these things can cause a dry socket and dry sockets are very painful.
Does Invisalign work permanently?
Invisalign is like braces - it's orthodontic movement of the teeth. Just like braces, you need a retainer to keep your teeth from shifting. After completion of the Invisalign treatment, READ MORE
Invisalign is like braces - it's orthodontic movement of the teeth. Just like braces, you need a retainer to keep your teeth from shifting. After completion of the Invisalign treatment, your dentist will recommend getting a removable retainer. Usually it's a Vivera retainer which is 30% stronger and twice as durable as other leading retainers. Your dentist will taper the retainer to keep your teeth from shifting. If you wear your retainer as prescribed by your dentist, your teeth should stay put.
How do you get rid of tooth nerve pain fast?
The only way to get rid of nerve pain is getting a root canal. Some dentists do their own root canals, but your dentist would need to see examine the tooth and get an x-ray to READ MORE
The only way to get rid of nerve pain is getting a root canal. Some dentists do their own root canals, but your dentist would need to see examine the tooth and get an x-ray to see if the tooth is restorable. If the tooth is not restorable you will need an extraction. Hope you can find the help you need soon! Happy holidays
Can you get braces if you have dental fillings?
Yes. Depending on your situation, you may even be a good candidate for Invisalign. I would start by going to your dentist and asking for a referral for orthodontic treatment.
