expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Max Olen Kerr, DDS

Dentist

Dr. Max Kerr is a Dentist practicing in Cedar Park, TX. Dr. Kerr specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic procedures, and performing examinations, among many others.
Dr. Max Kerr, DDS
  • Cedar Park, TX
  • Accepting new patients

Does toothpaste remove plaque?

No, toothpaste traditionally only carries fluoride or whitening. Plaque can only be removed by the mechanical action of brushing. If you have calculus build up (petrified plaque), READ MORE
No, toothpaste traditionally only carries fluoride or whitening. Plaque can only be removed by the mechanical action of brushing. If you have calculus build up (petrified plaque), it will need to be professionally removed.

How long does a blood clot last after an extraction?

A few days. It’s hard to say for sure. It changes from person to person.

Can a small cavity heal itself?

If the cavities are actual holes or if they have progressed to the dentin, they cannot heal. If they can be classified as “incipient” then they can be healed.

Dr. K

Pain 5 days after tooth extraction?

It is common to experience pain 5 days post-extraction. If the pain is getting worse and not better though, you ought to get evaluated by the doctor who removed to tooth. Dr. READ MORE
It is common to experience pain 5 days post-extraction. If the pain is getting worse and not better though, you ought to get evaluated by the doctor who removed to tooth.

Dr. K

What will happen if a cavity is left untreated?

An untreated cavity will progress to the nerve of the tooth. Once the cavity hits the nerve, you will experience extreme pain and possible infection. At that point in time, the READ MORE
An untreated cavity will progress to the nerve of the tooth. Once the cavity hits the nerve, you will experience extreme pain and possible infection. At that point in time, the only treatment would be root canal or extraction.

Why do my teeth keep breaking?

Many things including systemic disease. It’s important that you get an examination from a dentist.

Are there side effects of a tooth extraction?

Aside from acute pain and possible post operative infection, tooth extraction has a relatively low complication rate.

Why is coconut oil recommended for teeth?

Not sure it is. I think oil products can disrupt the cell walls of bacteria in your mouth, but I’m not aware of the protocol that allows for this to work.

Dr. K

How long does dental anesthetic last?

Depends from case to case, but traditionally 2-4 hours.

What can be the cause of my bad breath?

The main cause for bad breath is usually gum disease or tooth decay. If is is not either of those problems, it could point to a systemic, possibly serious, condition. It might READ MORE
The main cause for bad breath is usually gum disease or tooth decay. If is is not either of those problems, it could point to a systemic, possibly serious, condition. It might mean that you are breathing through your mouth. If you have corresponding gastrointestinal issues, it could be a breathing disorder like sleep apnea. Either way you should see your dentist and\or ENT.

Any treatments for canker sores?

Time is the best healer for canker sores. You can try a warm saltwater rinse too. Multiple sores or having sores often may mean that you have a Folate deficiency.

Do children need fillings for baby teeth?

Yes, often painful cavities mean that the painful tooth is about to die. A dead tooth can cause life threatening infections, especially in children. It’s important if you think READ MORE
Yes, often painful cavities mean that the painful tooth is about to die. A dead tooth can cause life threatening infections, especially in children. It’s important if you think your child has decay, to have your child examined by a dentist.

Can a missing tooth cause problems in my mouth?

Yes, traditionally a missing tooth will cause the others near the missing tooth to breakdown much quicker causing more tooth loss.

Dr. K

How often should my daughter get her braces tightened?

Depends on the orthodontist, but it’s usually every 2 months.

I grind my teeth while I sleep. Should I get a mouth guard?

Yes, it is important to protect your teeth if you happen to grind. Tooth damage caused by grinding can require significant restorative dental treatment. Tooth grinding can also READ MORE
Yes, it is important to protect your teeth if you happen to grind. Tooth damage caused by grinding can require significant restorative dental treatment. Tooth grinding can also be a symptom of a systemic disease like sleep apnea. If you grind your teeth, it is important to be evaluated by a dental professional who is knowledgeable about sleep disorders. Visit the AADSM website to find a qualified dentist near you.

I never grew out of my buck teeth. What should I do?

You sure can. You will, more than likely, need to visit an orthodontist.

Does a wisdom tooth need to be removed?

It depends on where it is in your jaw. If positioned poorly, it could lead to bone or tooth loss. It is best to have it radiographicly evaluated by a dental professional.