Deborah S. Bishop, DMD, PC Blog

When Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

November 3, 2025

Forceps holding a wisdom tooth

Would you be surprised to learn that not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth taken out? Some teens and young adults are actually able to skip the extraction process and keep their “third molars”! So what makes an endodontist recommend this type of treatment? Keep reading to learn when wisdom teeth absolutely have to be removed.

(more…)

5 Reasons Behind Gum Soreness and Inflammation

October 9, 2025

Woman with gum irritation

You know that it’s important to brush twice and floss every day to keep your teeth in optimal condition. However, how often do you think about your gums? If you are experiencing gum inflammation and soreness, this is a sign that something isn’t right. Read on to learn about some of the common causes of gum irritation and what you can do to get some relief.

(more…)

Can Oral Bacteria Cause Brain Abscesses? Research Highlights a Connection

September 4, 2025

Illustration of brain inside human head

It is common knowledge that an overabundance of harmful bacteria in the mouth can lead to big consequences, such as toothaches, cavities, gum disease, and even dangerous tooth infections. However, that bacteria do not always stay in the mouth. They can enter the bloodstream and affect other parts of your body. In fact, research indicates that oral bacteria could even play a role in the formation of brain abscesses. This blog post explores that troubling connection.

(more…)

What Happens if You Don’t Get a Root Canal?

July 3, 2025

Dentist performing root canal.

Hearing that you need a root canal can feel intimidating, and it’s natural to wonder if you can put it off or skip the procedure altogether. However, a root canal isn’t just about relieving pain—it’s about saving your tooth and protecting your overall health. Choosing not to get one when it’s needed can lead to serious consequences. Let’s look at what really happens if you don’t get a root canal.

(more…)

Ouch! Understanding Pain After a Root Canal

May 3, 2025

Woman holding her jaw in pain.

A root canal is a highly effective dental procedure designed to save a tooth that’s badly decayed or infected. While many people fear that a root canal will be painful, the truth is that the procedure itself is relatively comfortable thanks to modern anesthetics and techniques. However, some discomfort afterward is normal and knowing what to expect can help ease your concerns and aid in your recovery.

(more…)

Do I Have to Be in Pain to Need a Root Canal?

March 20, 2025

A woman getting a root canal

Being told you need a root canal can come as a shock, especially if you aren’t experiencing any pain. After all, if you believe those old Hollywood tropes, you need to have both an agonizing toothache and a painful recovery when you get a root canal. Surprisingly, however, neither of those things are true. In fact, not only do you not need to be in any pain to need a root canal, but this treatment is also for more than just standard tooth infections, and it (really!) doesn’t hurt. Here are a few reasons why even though you may feel fine, you could still need a root canal.

(more…)

Endodontic Retreatment — When and Why Is It Necessary?

February 3, 2025

Curious woman with question marks above her head

Under ideal circumstances, root canal therapy preserves a damaged tooth and allows it to continue functioning well throughout a patient’s lifetime. But what if your dentist or endodontist informs you that a previously treated tooth needs to undergo a second root canal (also known as endodontic retreatment)? Understandably, you might be hesitant to commit to the procedure. Just when and why is endodontic retreatment necessary? This blog post discusses some common reasons. It also touches on what you can expect from a second root canal.

(more…)

Can Antibiotics Treat Dental Abscesses?

January 16, 2025

Woman taking a pill

When you have an ear infection or a sinus infection, you may receive a course of antibiotics to address the problem. A dental abscess is an infection taking place in the mouth, so can antibiotics be used as a treatment? This isn’t always the case. Continue reading to learn more about tooth abscesses, how they are treated, and the use of antibiotics for oral infections.

(more…)

Root Canal Aftercare: What Should You Expect?

December 4, 2024

patient undergoing a root canal

Preparing for a root canal isn’t too bad once your dentist debunks the countless myths claiming this procedure is painful. You know treating your damaged or decayed tooth will not only save it from extraction but also alleviate the discomfort because its source – the infection – will be removed. But what can you expect after the procedure is complete? Keep reading to discover what you should and shouldn’t do as well as how soon you’ll feel like your normal self again.

(more…)

GentleWave vs. Traditional Root Canal Treatment: Which Is Better?

October 17, 2024

Digital illustration of a root canal

In old movies and TV shows, root canal treatment was portrayed as a painful procedure that you wanted to avoid at all costs. Fortunately, with modern dental techniques and technology, these portrayals are now ancient history. Getting a root canal shouldn’t feel much different than getting a large dental filling. With GentleWave, patients can get the dental treatment they need even more comfortably and conveniently. Continue reading to learn more about GentleWave and how it compares to traditional root canal treatment.

(more…)