Heights Endodontics our doctors are advanced trained dental specialists with focus on root canal therapy, retreatment of teeth with previous root canals, microsurgical treatments (apicoectomy), management of dental trauma as well as internal bleaching of discolored teeth.
We use the latest technology available, including microscopes, digital radiography, ultrasonics as well as CBCT to assist in providing an efficient experience during your dental treatment. Our office strives to ensure a stress free and comfortable dental visit with sedation as an option. We provide elements that aid in making the patient feel at ease, warm and entertained!
Dr. Kwang is a native of Houston, Texas, and a product of West African culture. She attended high school in Friendswood, Texas. She received her Bachelors of Science Degree at Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA). She continued her education in dentistry at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, where she received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery. During her dental studies, she was the recipient of various awards: University of Detroit Mercy Presidential and D Eichler Scholarships; American Association of Public Health Dentistry Award, Nabil Bissada Graduate Student award, and Community Service UDMSOD and Craig A Alfred of NDA.
Following graduation, she completed a General Practice Residency at Harlem Hospital in Manhattan, New York City (NYC) affiliated with the Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons. She continued serving the diverse population of NYC and developed a passion for learning the intricate details of dental pain.
Dr. Kwang completed a 2 year Advanced Endodontic Dental Residency at Case Western Reserve University. She was selected as Chief resident and obtained a Masters of Science in Dentistry in Cleveland Ohio. With commitment and enthusiasm for dental care, outreach (Kenya) and service. She is proactive in service for the Houston community through various womens organizations. She is also a member of the American Association of Endodontists, Greater Houston Dental Society (GHDS), Texas Dental Association, American Dental Association, and National Dental Association.
Dr. Scott is originally from Columbia, Maryland. He attended the University of Maryland, College Park where he received a Bachelor of Science in 2006. Dr. Scott continued to pursue his education in the field of dentistry at Howard University College of Dentistry in Washington, D.C. earning a Doctorate of Dental Surgery in 2010.
Dr. Scott moved to New York City after dental school and served as chief resident at the Bronx Lebanon Hospital (BronxCare Health System) residency program . During his time in the south Bronx he provided access to quality health care for the underserved in the community. While attending the hospital based residency program Scott was exposed to and gained an appreciation for the treatment of emergent dental needs including pain, infection, and trauma.
After two years in general practice residency he was accepted into the Advanced Education Program in Endodontics at New York University. While at NYU he was able to provide care for the diverse population of New York City and around the world. Dr. Scott participated in outreach programs with Henry Schien that afforded him the opportunity to educate and provide endodontic care for underprivileged populations in Puebla, Mexico and Granada, Nicaragua. Scott was awarded a Specialty Certificate in Endodontics from NYU in 2014.
Dr. Scott is currently a Board Certified Endodontist and a member of the American Association of Endodontist, American Dental Association, National Dental Association, Texas Dental Association as well as the Greater Houston Dental Society.
Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The most common reasons for inflammation or infection are deep cavities (caries), repeated dental procedures, cracks or chips. Trauma can also cause inflammation and often shows up as discoloration of the tooth. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.
Root canals usually take about 60 to 90 minutes, but the amount of time depends on the anatomy of your tooth and how inflamed or infected it is. In some cases, treatment may be multiple visits depending on the amount of inflammation and infection present inside of your tooth.
Yes, you will be awake during your root canal treatment. Getting a root canal is similar to getting a cavity filledgeneral anesthesia (being put to sleep) is not needed. If you have dental anxiety, let us know and we can discuss options for sedation to help you feel calm and relaxed during your procedure.
Most patients simply feel pressure and movement, but not pain. You may have some discomfort as a result of keeping your mouth open for an extended amount of timejust like any other dental procedure, it might not be your idea of fun, but its usually not painful.
We recommend that you take a combination of an anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) along with acetaminophen (Tylenol) following your procedure. If you cannot take ibuprofen, then acetaminophen (Tylenol) alone would be the next best thing. In certain instances, the doctor will prescribe you an antibiotic, and/or possibly an additional medication for pain. All instructions regarding medication will be thoroughly reviewed with you before you leave, and you will also be given written instructions.
It is recommended that you have your permanent restoration placed 2-3 weeks after your root canal treatment. This gives your tooth time to heal, but not longer than one month after the procedure. This step is imperative for the long-term prognosis of your tooth. Without a final restoration to protect the tooth it is at risk for fracture or re-infection.
New dental trauma, a new cavity, a broken filling or a crack in the tooth can allow contaminated saliva to leak into the tooth and cause a new infection inside your tooth. In addition, if you did not have a final restoration (usually a crown) placed soon after your previous root canal treatment the tooth may also be more prone to reinfection. This infection can contaminate the prior root canal filling inside your tooth. In some cases, if an infected tooth is not healing the endodontist may discover an additional canal or a very narrow or curved canals that could not be treated during your initial procedure. These complex conditions may require the skills and technology of an endodontist.