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Is Invisalign Painful?

By Rafael Mercado, DDS on July 14, 2022 Invisalign® transforms the smile, creating beautifully straight teeth without the use of traditional metal braces. Instead, Invisalign uses clear aligners that fit snugly over the teeth to gradually reposition the teeth and enhance the smile.  Many people find Invisalign more comfortable than traditional braces but may still…

Fast Adult Orthodontic Options

By Rafael Mercado, DDS on June 17, 2022 Malocclusion problems can compromise oral functions, interfere with oral hygiene habits, and detract from the beauty of the smile. While many people have these types of issues corrected during their adolescent or teen years, it is common for adults to live with crooked teeth or a misaligned…

Dental Implant Costs Without Insurance: What to Expect

By Rafael Mercado, DDS on May 11, 2022 Dental implants are artificial tooth roots upon which a dental professional can place a lifelike restoration, such as a dental crown, dental bridge, or dentures. By their very nature, dental implants are a superior tooth-replacement solution for patients who are missing one or more teeth. In fact, there…

Dental Crown Pain: Causes and Treatments

By Rafael Mercado, DDS on April 28, 2022 Our Castle Hills, TX, dental clinic most commonly uses dental crowns to treat cavities. Ordinarily, dental crowns protect sensitive dental tissue and prevent cavities from spreading to other teeth. Although dental crowns are a long-lasting restoration, they are not infallible. Dental crown pain is an indicator that something more…

Dental Implants and Diabetes

By Rafael Mercado, DDS on February 28, 2022 Tooth loss is a common problem for many people with diabetes. While there are many treatments to replace missing teeth, dental implants are a popular choice as they offer superior fit and function.  Dental implants require surgery and are not right for everyone, including some people with diabetes. However,…

Types of Teeth Whitening Treatments

By Rafael Mercado, DDS on February 25, 2022 The smile is one of the most prominent physical features, and for most people it is important to feel satisfied with its appearance. Unfortunately, even when the teeth are healthy and well-cared for, the aesthetics of the smile can be compromised by discoloration and dental stains.  While…

Sensitivity After Teeth Whitening

By Rafael Mercado, DDS on November 25, 2021 Most people agree that the appearance of their smile has a big impact on self-confidence. Unfortunately, many also agree that their smile is not as bright or white as they would desire. The teeth are regularly exposed to deeply colored foods and beverages, so it is natural…

Dental Implants vs Dentures: Which Is for You?

By Rafael Mercado, DDS on October 25, 2021 When you have missing teeth, it’s not just your confidence and the beauty of your smile that are in danger—it’s your health. Dental implants and dentures are both popular, safe, and trusted methods to replace missing teeth. Each option has its benefits. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that anchor crowns,…

Top 4 Orthodontic Treatment Options

By Rafael Mercado, DDS on September 24, 2021 Misaligned teeth can make everyday activities like eating, brushing, or even speaking burdens that limit your quality of life. If you have crowded, crooked, or gaped teeth, we have many orthodontic options available.  We offer the top four orthodontic treatments at Castle Hills Family Dental in Castle Hills, TX, to fit your…

Orthodontic Care FAQs

By Rafael Mercado, DDS on August 25, 2021 Crooked teeth are a fact of life for many Americans. But how can you know if orthodontics, like braces or aligners, are a good treatment option for you? At Castle Hills Family Dental in Castle Hills, TX, Dr. Rafael Mercado can answer all of your questions about orthodontics and help…