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A cavity does not always start as an obvious hole. Early tooth decay may look like a chalky white spot, a dull area that has lost its shine, or a faint yellow, brown, or black mark. As decay progresses, the surface may become rough, pitted, or visibly broken down. Some cavities look like a small […]

If your gums bleed when you brush, feel tender, or look puffy near the teeth, gingivitis may be the cause. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, and it often improves when the source of irritation is removed. Gingivitis develops when plaque builds up along the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria […]

A wisdom tooth coming in often first changes the look of the very back of the mouth. The gum behind the last visible molar may look raised, puffy, tender, or slightly split as the tooth starts pushing through. Sometimes a small white point or ridge shows under the gum first. As more of the tooth […]

Gum recession happens when the gum tissue pulls away from a tooth and exposes more of the root surface. Because the root is not protected by enamel, it is more vulnerable to sensitivity, wear, and decay. The long-term goal is simple: keep teeth stable, comfortable, and easier to maintain for years to come. Gum recession […]

The short answer is that the actual removal of a tooth may take only a few minutes, but the full appointment often lasts longer. In many routine cases, a simple extraction takes about 20 to 40 minutes from start to finish, while the tooth itself may be out in less than 10 minutes once the […]

Needing braces again often happens because teeth can gradually shift throughout adulthood. Tooth movement may occur after retainers stop fitting, after missing teeth change bite pressure, or after age-related changes affect alignment. At Susan Wagner, patients looking for comfortable treatment options often explore Invisalign clear aligners because treatment may address mild to moderate relapse without […]

In many cases, yes, you can drive after a root canal. If the appointment involved only local anesthetic, meaning the area was numbed while you stayed fully awake, many patients are able to drive themselves home safely. The more important question is not the root canal itself. It is whether anything used during the visit […]

Teeth whitening involves applying a whitening agent to the teeth to reduce stains and improve overall color. At Susan Wagner - Cosmetic Dentist in Indianapolis, patients typically begin with an evaluation and professional teeth whitening to determine the most appropriate treatment approach. The whitening process varies depending on whether treatment is performed in-office or at […]

Dental abscess self care focuses on managing discomfort and reducing irritation temporarily, but it does not treat the underlying infection. A dental abscess typically requires professional dental care to fully resolve. Early evaluation helps reduce the risk of worsening symptoms or spread of infection. Quick Facts About Dental Abscess What Can You Do for Dental […]