Recare Evaluation

A periodic evaluation of your dental health is recommended every 6 months. Dr. Shannon checks to see that no new dental problems have developed; ensures that existing restorations are in good condition; and, confirms that your gum health is being well maintained. Catching a dental problem early often means having an easier treatment experience with greater financial savings.

Dental Prophylaxis

A dental prophylaxis is what most patients think of as a standard teeth cleaning. It is the professional removal of the build-up of soft plaque, hard deposits (tartar/calculus), and stain that accumulates on the teeth during the 3 to 6 month period between regular, preventive recare visits. Frequent regular teeth cleanings combined with excellent home oral hygiene habits are vitally important in the prevention of dental diseases such as cavities and gum disease.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride is a mineral found naturally in many foods and drinks. It is one of nature's ways to help prevent cavities. Dr. Shannon often recommends the use of professional strength fluoride supplements (applied in-office or for use at home) to help make the tooth enamel stronger. It can sometimes even heal weakened enamel. In the lifelong fight to prevent cavities adults and children alike stand to benefit from fluoride supplements.

Home Care Tools

Numerous studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of brushing with an ultrasonic toothbrush. Dr. Shannon is a strong advocate for the use of such toothbrushes, especially the Philips Sonicare. For those who prefer to brush manually, it's very important to use a soft toothbrush. There are a variety of other oral health aids than can also help you to maintain a great smile. The team at Shannon DentalCare tailors its recommendations to your unique circumstances.

Sealants

Dental sealants are special coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth (premolars and molars). They create strong barriers against destructive, decay-causing bacteria. Timely application of sealants on these teeth helps to prevent cavities on these surfaces. Sealants are another great way to reduce the likelihood of getting cavities and are especially beneficial for children.

Nightguard

Do you ever get headaches on the side and back of your head? Do you ever experience tight facial muscles, difficulty in opening your mouth, chipped, cracked, or broken teeth or fillings? If you do then it's likely that you are clenching or grinding your teeth. This is a condition known as "bruxism". Bruxism can occur while awake or asleep and can be extremely harmful to the teeth, facial muscles, and jaw joints. Dr. Shannon can provide you with a specially designed Nightguard to wear while asleep. The Nightguard not only protects your teeth but also allows your jaw to relax and rest, preventing many of the harmful problems caused by bruxism. Dr. Shannon can put you on the path to real relief if you think you may suffer from bruxism.

Snore Guard

Did you know that as many as 50% of all adults snore? If you are one of those who do you may benefit from wearing a Snore Guard while you sleep. A Snore Guard is a small oral appliance that is used to keep your lower jaw and tongue from dropping back towards the throat and obstructing the airway. Successfully used with patients with typical snoring difficulties, it is not suitable for patients with more serious nighttime breathing problems such as sleep apnea. Dr. Shannon can help you determine if a Snore Guard is the right solution for you.

Patient Education

In addition to reinforcing good home oral health habits, Dr. Shannon and his team take the time to educate our patients about dental health and answer their questions. A variety of home health tools and techniques are available to make the job of staying healthy easier and with better results. Each patient is unique and sometimes just having the right tool to use at home makes all the difference when caring for your teeth and gums.

As Financial Coordinator and Scheduling Assistant, Kathleen enjoys helping patients receive the greatest benefit possible from their dental plans and finding ways to help with out-of-pocket expense. She is always available to answer questions about dental insurance, payment plans, treatment scheduling and enjoys helping patients meet their goals for their dental health as well as their finances. Kathleen's family is from Jackson, Mississippi and Kathleen graduated from Ole Miss University. Prior to joining her husband in opening Shannon DentalCare, her business experience included time as a research assistant and commercial appraiser. Kathleen has two wonderful nieces who have been like her daughters, Ginny and Ashley.

Kathleen is an active participant in Bible Study Fellowship. She has served as a discussion leader, children's leader and children's supervisor. She currently attends the Plano Evening Women's Class and leads a discussion group on Monday nights. She and her husband are active members of Prestonwood Baptist Church. Kathleen has volunteered on several event-planning committees for the McKinney Chamber of Commerce.

Kathleen's family loves Boston terriers and has had several during the years. During her spare time, Kathleen enjoys sewing, cooking, reading and window shopping for antiques.

Melinda Metzger is a graduate of the Northeast Texas Community College Dental Hygiene School. She won the school's "Horizon Award" for her contributions to the community in service to the underprivileged. Melinda is married and currently resides in Paris with her husband Jimmy and 7 dogs. You read that right! She is a serious dog lover, especially rescued Weimaraners.

Melinda brings energy and enthusiasm to Shannon DentalCare. She wastes no time in winning the approval of all of her patients. Many have commented on the thorough and gentle treatment she provides. Melinda currently works Monday through Wednesday – if you haven't already done so, contact the office today and schedule your next dental check-up. You'll appreciate her friendliness and professionalism.

Shelly Calvert has had the privilege of working side-by-side with Dr. Shannon as his dental assistant since the practice opened. As a Dental Assistant, Shelly helps Dr. Shannon provide advanced treatment for patients of all ages. Her chairside manner is a significant factor in helping patients feel comfortable while undergoing treatments. Shelly has experience in pediatric dentistry as well as general dentistry.

Shelly and her husband Gary are blessed with two children. Cortney graduated in 3 years from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, receiving a Bachelors degree in Sociology and a minor in Social Work and is a social worker with Dallas Child Protective Services (CPS). Their son Brandon is attending college in Collin County with plans to pursue a career in criminal justice. Shelly and her family feel like the Father above has blessed them richly.