Enhance Your Oral Care Routine for Less Than $20

Are you doing all you can for your teeth?

The ADA recommends brushing your teeth twice per day and flossing once, but sometimes our smiles need a little extra care. Even if your brushing routine is seemingly perfect, there are still ways to spice it up and make it more convenient or interesting. Fortunately, many of the ways to add to your arsenal of dental tools don’t have to take a toll on your wallet. Explore some of the ways you can enhance your oral care for less than $20.

Folding Travel Toothbrush – $5.99 for 2-pack

Travel toothbrushes offer a lot of advantages over their full-size counterparts. Ideal for storing in your desk at work or school, stashing in your carry-on for long travel days, or fitting into your purse or pocket when needed, a travel toothbrush can give you access to oral care when you’re away from home. Despite its innovative design, these folding travel toothbrushes are extremely affordable, available in a two-pack for just $5.99 with free shipping.

• Makes it convenient to brush on the go
• Creative jack-knife design
• Soft, full-sized brush head

Flosscard Dental Floss – $14.99 per 10-pack

While flossing is recommended once per day, many Americans opt to skip it altogether. Rather than accept the dental damage caused by a lack of flossing, why not make the process a little more convenient?

Flosscards allow you to do just that. Rather than a traditional box of floss for your pocket, Flosscard supplies an ample amount of floss in a case the size of a credit card. This allows it to easily slip into your money clip, wallet, purse, or other areas where minimal space is available. Whether you try it for the novelty or because it legitimately takes up less room than a box of floss, Flosscard Dental Floss provides an interesting way to add to your oral care routine at home.

• Contains 12 yards of floss in a dispenser that’s as thin as a credit card
• Unmatched portability
• Perfect for flossing on-the-move

Spry Xylitol Gum – Tube of 30 for $6.57

Some types of gum can be terrible for your teeth, but if it lacks sugar, then the opposite is true. That’s right – there are types of gum that actually benefit your smile while you chew them. Xylitol is a sweetener that has properties that are excellent for your teeth. This type of sweetener keeps sugar from sticking to your enamel and it doesn’t break down to cause decay like sugar does. With numerous brands and flavors available, chewing xylitol gum is one habit that will earn you a high-five from your dentist.

• Easy to carry, cylindrical container
• Scrubs your teeth with every chew
• Spry Fresh Fruit Flavor

Oral-B White Action Battery Powered Toothbrush – $4.72

While electric toothbrushes can cost well over $100, many brands are surprisingly affordable. One such brand is the White Action Battery Powered Toothbrush by Oral-B. Running on AA batteries, the White Action toothbrush provides a remarkable 14,000 strokes per minute. With this much brushing power available for less than five dollars, everyone can reap the benefits of an electric toothbrush without breaking their wallet.  

• Easy-grip handle
• 3 Color Options
• Powerful enough to remove stains

Keep Your Home Oral Care Routine Effective and Fun

Many adults skip out on their oral care sessions, but by adding variety to the experience, you can make brushing and flossing interesting day after day and year after year. Remember that even with stellar oral care at home, it’s still important to come in and visit us for an exam at least twice per year. With the combination of biannual dental visits and excellent oral care at home, you can start the new year with the smile you deserve! Contact us today for your next exam.

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4 Fun Dental Gifts for Teens

The holidays are fast-approaching, and with them, the challenge of finding the right gifts for the right people. When you think of buying gifts for the teens in your life, you probably think of fashion, gadgets, and games, but believe it or not, there are creative dental gifts that your teenager is likely to appreciate. Check out our list of four dental gifts that are cool enough to earn a high-five from the teens in your life.  

   1. Lush – Dirty Toothy Tabs

An innovative new way to clean your teeth, Dirty Toothy Tabs are perfect for cleaning your teeth on the go. Packaged in a black box with white text, each toothy tab will cause you to foam at the mouth within seconds of placing it there. This is the lather you can use to brush your teeth, and although different, it’s just as effective as the toothpaste you’re used to. For teens who like to be different, Dirty Toothy Tabs might be a cool change of pace for their brushing routine.

• Try all 6 Flavors: Boom, Dirty, Miles of Smiles, Limelight, Bling, & Oral Pleasure
• Eliminates the need for toothpaste
• $10.95 per pack

   2. LED Tooth-Whitener by Ionic White

While over-the-counter whiteners are typically comprised of strips that you leave on your teeth for a period of time, the new LED Tooth-Whitener by Ionic White is a true gamechanger. Taking advantage of professional whitening technology that you’d find at the dentist’s office, your teen can now use a handheld device to create a powerful whitening effect for their teeth. Teens who love to look their best will appreciate this innovative new product by Ionic White.

• Professional whitening power in the palm of your hand
• Includes 2 LED lights, 2 whitening pens, and color guide
• $19.95 per pack

   3. Cupcake Flavored Dental Floss

Only about half of all Americans use dental floss daily. With Cupcake Flavored Dental Floss by Accoutrements, your teen might start looking forward to their flossing sessions. Packaged in a pink container adorned with a cupcake, teens with a sweet tooth will appreciate the frosting-like flavor. If nothing else, they’ll chuckle at the irony of cleaning their teeth with a product that tastes like a cavity-causing cupcake.

• Waxed dental floss flavored like a frosted cupcake
• Fun and unique pink cupcake packaging
• $5.95 per box

   4. Carbon Coco – Pitch Black Charcoal Toothpaste

Odds are, your teen will find it counter-intuitive to whiten their teeth with a toothpaste that’s black as night, but that’s exactly what’s happening with Carbon Coco. Using a charcoal-based, fluoride-free formula, Carbon Coco cleans your mouth, freshens breath, and whitens your teeth. If you know a teen that would love a totally new approach to cleaning their teeth, then this Carbon Activated Toothpaste by Carbon Coco may be a fun gift.

• Pitch black toothpaste that freshens breath and whitens teeth
• Spearmint flavor
• $39.99 for a 2-pack

Show Your Teen that Dental Gifts Can Be Awesome This Year

At Dentistry of Nashville, we know that all of our patients have different needs. While a basic dental kit may not be a worthy gift for the teens in your life, there are some creative dental gifts that are appealing enough to make the grade. Have fun exchanging gifts with loved ones this year and count on Dentistry of Nashville to keep your family’s smiles strong and healthy. Contact us to schedule an appointment with our talented team of doctors.

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3 Dental Stocking Stuffers that Kids Will Love

Whatever holiday you celebrate in December, it’s likely there will be gatherings with family and friends and gifts for children. While most children wouldn’t be into a fancy new electric toothbrush as their main holiday gift, some dental products can be fun and can make excellent stocking stuffers for kids. Dr. Fleming and the staff at Dentistry of Nashville have some recommendations for dental-related stocking stuffers that your kids will appreciate.

1. Wild Flossers by J&J

Less than 25% of adults use dental floss regularly, so it’s important to start developing your children’s good habits when they are young. One way to do that is by adding some much-needed fun to the flossing experience.

J&J Wild Flossers are a product that does just that, providing dental picks in a variety of colorful shapes and colors that kids won’t be able to resist. Each flosser is shaped like different dinosaurs and from the fun packaging to the easy grips, it’s clear that this is the perfect way to make flossing fun for your children.

2. Battery Powered Toothbrush – Disney’s Frozen

For less than $5, you can get your kids started with their first electric toothbrush. As soon as they see their favorite Disney characters on the packaging, they’ll be excited to check it out. The buttons and colorful design will hold their attention, and once they experience the fun of an automatic toothbrush, you may never have to beg them to brush their teeth again! Oral-B and Crest Disney’s Frozen Battery Operated Toothbrush is a phenomenal way to encourage your kids to look forward to their oral care routine.

3. Hello Fluoride-free Natural Watermelon Toothpaste

An excellent choice for parents who care about organic and cruelty-free products, this toothpaste by Hello Oral Care is completely recyclable and made in the USA.

From the bright packaging to the unique flavors, Hello Oral Care has created one of the best toothpastes for kids. If the natural watermelon flavor isn’t to their liking, you can try Blue Raspberry or Bubble Gum instead. The ingredients in Hello Natural Toothpaste, make it safe for young kids and effective at keeping their teeth clean. You’ll find cavity-busters like Xylitol and a silica blend that polishes their teeth, as well as being fluoride-free in case your child accidentally swallows it. Packing enhancements to taste and fun, this toothpaste by Hello Oral Care might spark a love of oral care in your child.  

Happy Holidays from the Team at Dentistry of Nashville!

However you choose to celebrate this year, we wish you a safe, happy holiday! If you choose to give your kids a fun dental gift or two, it may be the beginning of a lifelong appreciation of oral care. Young children should visit the dentist by their first birthday to ensure their teeth are erupting properly. If any member of your family is due for their dental appointment, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment.

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Tips for Keeping Thanksgiving Foods from Harming Your Smile

Thanksgiving is a few weeks away and no matter how you plan on spending the holiday, odds are there will be feasting involved. But have you ever wondered how the Thanksgiving staples affect your smile? Check out this list of Thanksgiving tips to ensure that your teeth stay strong and healthy this November.

Fresh Snacks are Best

While people don’t think of fresh fruit or cheese slices when they think of Thanksgiving, it is common to have appetizers sitting out before the big dinner. Many of these appetizers are excellent for your teeth, including fresh veggie sticks, cheese slices, and apple slices. If you plan on trying a wide variety of foods this Thanksgiving that aren’t as good for your smile, then mixing in fresh foods can minimize damage to your teeth.

Don’t Forget to Drink Water Often

This tip is excellent for keeping your smile bright, because water washes away much of the debris, sugar, and acid that rests loosely on your teeth. It’s likely that champagne, beer, soda, coffee, and other beverages will be available on Thanksgiving, but remember water for its dental benefits. Plus,  it’s ability to make you feel full is excellent for weight loss as well.

Chew Xylitol Gum Between Meals  

If you’re like most Americans and your Thanksgiving feast involves more than one plate, then one tip that’s great for your teeth is to remember to chew xylitol gum. Xylitol is a sweetener that benefits the teeth, and the American Dental Association has confirmed its advantages for your oral health. Simply look for the ADA seal of approval on the pack of gum you buy to ensure that it will help your smile rather than hurt it.

Enjoy the Turkey!

Turkey is not only an excellent meat when it comes to your waistline, but it also contains nutrients that benefit your oral health. For example, turkey is rich in phosphorus which maximizes the effect of calcium, the building block of your teeth. The nutrients in turkey contribute to your smile by rebuilding gum tissue and performing other useful functions.

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Cancun Travel Guidebook

Cancun is often referred to as the ‘Caribbean Jewel’ and is one of the Mexico’s best loved holiday destinations. Whatever you look for in a holiday you are guaranteed to find it in Cancun, so we are here to guide you through the best tourist hotspots, beaches and accommodation available in this spectacular ‘Mexican Caribbean’!

View -> Hotels in Cancun

Whether you wish to spend your time relaxing on one of the romantic beaches or enjoying the party atmosphere in one of Cancun’s legendary nightclubs, there really is something to suit all tastes. Many people arrive in Cancun ready to take advantage of the idyllic scenery, wedding ceremonies often take place on the beaches and honeymooners can always be found watching the sun set over the beautiful lagoons. Prefer to spend your time keeping active? Cancun offers an almost limitless amount of sports and leisure facilities to enjoy during your break. The crystal clear waters are the perfect setting for surfing, sailing and even fishing. Divers will love exploring the Caribbean underwater world with its abundance of colourful sea life and coral, lessons are available along with guides to let you know the best spots to put on your snorkel.

In your vacations in Cancun do not forget to book your service: Cancun shuttle

At Cancun Travel Guide we aim to make sure that your holiday is right for you, with details on the best restaurants to visit down to the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. There is a wide range of hotels, apartments and villas to choose from when booking a break so it is important to make sure that you find your perfect base. Many hotels specialise in luxury, ideal for anyone looking to be completely pampered during their break. Private villas are the perfect choice for honeymooners looking for an idyllic escape; choose a beachfront villa for the ultimate exotic getaway!

Are you a fan of diving? You can not miss the opportunity to visit the cancun cave diving

Your dream Cancun holiday is closer than you think, with our handy hints and tips on Cancun travel covering everything from holiday budgets to vital tourist information. Kick off your Cancun experience today and start planning your esca

3 Best Sugar-Free Treats to Hand Out this Halloween

Americans will be spending an average of $27 per household on candy this year for Halloween, but with most candies leading to cavities and obesity, is there a better option?

Obviously, the treats have to be candy that kids love, so how do we minimize the dental damage in the treats we’re giving away?

One easy answer is to opt for sugar-free candy instead. Whether you want to hand out Reese’s Cups or caramels, Jolly Ranchers or gummies, these classic candies are all available in sugar-free variations. Discover the options for handing out sugar-free candy this Halloween and how you can be the house that preserves the teeth of kids in your neighborhood.

Advantages of Sugar-free Candy

• Kids typically don’t notice that it’s sugar-free
• Lots of available options
• Won’t cause cavities
• Avoids sugar crashes
• Less effect on their blood sugar
• Lower carbs and calories

Drawbacks of Sugar-free Candy

• Sugar alcohols in large amounts can cause digestive side effects
• Taste in some brands may be significantly different than versions with sugar

Best Types of Sugar-free Candy

Taste has to be a major consideration when choosing the best sugar-free candies. Popular brands that are recognizable to kids are also likely to be accepted quickly, regardless of lacking the sugar they’re craving. If you want to commit to providing healthier treats for kids in your neighborhood, then consider the following options they’re likely to love:

1. Russell Stover Sugar-Free Assorted Chocolates

While other houses are giving away basics like Tootsie Rolls, you can be the house that hands out decadent chocolates that kids will remember. The Russell Stover Assortment Bag comes with several of their most popular individually-wrapped chocolates. These include:

• Dark Chocolate Mint Patties
• Milk Chocolate Pecan Delights
• Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
• Milk Chocolate Coconut
• Milk Chocolate Caramel

Sweetened with Stevia, Russell Stover’s sugar-free chocolates will be some kids’ favorites, and they won’t cause cavities or widen their waistlines.

   2.  Werther’s Original Sugar-free Caramel Apple Hard Candies

Werther’s Original is arguably the most popular brand of hard and chewy caramels, and almost all of their flavors come with a sugar-free variation. While a caramel hard candy may sound boring, when you consider their flavors and the soft texture of their hard candies, you’ll see how Werther’s is an excellent option. This is especially true for their Caramel Apple flavor which combines two forms of sweetness into a smooth caramel that will appeal to many people – and won’t cause cavities for kids.

   3. Jolly Ranchers Assorted Sugar-free

Featuring apple, grape, watermelon, and raspberry, sugar-free Jolly Ranchers are one candy that has maximum taste with no sugar whatsoever. Each 4-piece serving is only 35 calories and each Jolly Rancher will typically last several minutes. With colorful packaging and bold, tempting flavors, Sugar-free Jolly Ranchers are an affordable treat that kids will love this Halloween.

Our Nashville Dental Team will Keep Your Smile Healthy

We know that most Americans are going to indulge in candy this Halloween – we’ll probably sneak a few pieces as well. By remembering to brush at the end of the day and drinking plenty of water throughout your Halloween celebration, you can minimize dental damage from any candy you consume. If you feel like something isn’t right with your teeth after Halloween, count on Dentistry of Nashville to provide the oral care you need. Contact us today!

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Root Canals – A Great Procedure with a Bad Reputation

In all aspects of life, sometimes a person, thing, or in this case, a dental procedure can earn a bad reputation. The root canal has earned such a reputation, perhaps because it used to be a more painful procedure. However, with our modern advancements, enhanced knowledge, and the reality that it’s a vital treatment, the root canal is actually an extraordinary treatment. Plus, it may be the only way to save your tooth. Take a minute and explore one of the most widely hated procedures, and see why it’s absolutely vital for some patients.

The Inner-Layers of Our Teeth

We’re all familiar with the outer layer of our teeth – we brush it, chew with it, and everyone sees it when we smile. But what many people don’t know is that there are other parts inside of your teeth that keep it alive. They include the pulp, nerves, roots, and even a section called the root canal which gives this treatment its name. When an infection spreads to these inner areas of the tooth, it can cause immense pain and may have to be extracted.

The Anatomy of a Tooth
Credit: WebMD, 2009

What Exactly is a Root Canal?

Essentially, a root canal involves removing all of the inner parts of a tooth that keep it alive, thereby eliminating the need for extraction. When faced with a severely infected tooth, the two most common choices are as follows:

1. Extract the tooth and replace the gap with a bridge or dental implant
2. Get a root canal and have a custom crown cover the damaged tooth

The option involving the root canal saves your tooth and spares you from the extra money and time required for a replacement. This is why root canals are beneficial to those who are in that situation -They may be the only way to prevent you from losing a tooth.

The Irony of Root Canals

The fact that root canals are such a dreaded procedure is an irony when you consider one of their most common uses. When patients enter a dental office complaining of severe pain to their teeth, often this pain is debilitating and is keeping them from focusing on anything else. Well, guess what procedure is most often used to alleviate this pain and provide relief? The root canal. The truth is that the root canal relieves far more pain than it ever causes.  

Root Canals are Nothing to Worry About!

Although root canals have developed a bad reputation, there is typically little pain involved in a modern root canal. When you arrive for your root canal treatment, your Nashville doctor will begin by administering anesthesia to numb the area. Anesthesia is extremely effective at Dentistry of Nashville and you can expect little to no pain during your procedure. Plus, it really doesn’t make sense that a root canal would be worse than more intensive surgeries, such as gum grafts or sinus augmentations – anesthesia removes the pain from these procedures.

Visit Our Nashville Team and Avoid the Need for Root Canals

A major part of preventing infection is showing up for your biannual appointments at Dentistry of Nashville. Only through consistent dental care can we remove the hardened tartar that develops on your teeth and stop dental problems before they get worse. While the root canal is an extremely useful procedure, our dental team in Nashville wants you to avoid the need for one as long as possible. Contact us to see how we can help your smile.  

 

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Make Your Appointment a Breeze with Sedation Dentistry

It’s no surprise that many people feel some degree of anxiety about visiting the dentist. Whether you’re stressed, afraid, or don’t want to feel any pain during your procedure, sedation dentistry may be for you. With precise doses of anesthesia, we can ensure that you get the dental care you need without even remembering your experience. Discover how sedation dentistry provides an outlet for dental care for those who experience fear and anxiety at the dentist.

Different Levels of Sedation

Patients react differently to sedation dentistry depending on gender, weight, height, and other factors. Therefore, different types and methods are used to ensure optimal sedation for each patient. These are the most commonly used types of sedation dentistry:

4 Types of Sedation Dentistry

These are the 4 kinds of sedation dentistry that are commonly used:

1. Oral Sedation

Oral sedation involves the use of pills to sedate the patient. Commonly used drugs in oral sedation dentistry include hydroxyzine, lorazepam, and diazepam. Since people react differently to medication, it can be more difficult to gauge the degree of sedation when using pills.

2. IV Sedation

IV sedation has the advantages of being easier to control than other types. With the patient attached to an IV, the sedative is fed through the tube and allowed to enter their bloodstream. IV sedation is a popular choice for sedation dentistry because the doctor can easily add or decrease the amount as needed.

3. Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is a gas that has commonly been used for anesthesia. Considered the lightest form of anesthesia, nitrous oxide is administered via a gas tank, breathing tube, and a respirator. When used for medical sedation, the effect of nitrous oxide is typically enough to dull most pain and leave the patient in a sedated state.

4. General Anesthesia

General anesthesia uses one or more sedative agents to ensure a loss of reflexes in patients. General anesthesia affects the entire body, and is the most powerful form of sedation. Since general anesthesia is powerful enough to be used after major surgeries, it’s not often the top choice for sedation dentistry.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Considering sedation dentistry during your next appointment? More and more people are experiencing this method of taking the stress out of their dental appointments. Check out some of the most pertinent reasons why you might benefit from sedation dentistry:

• Take the pain and stress out of dental visits
• Get more than one procedure accomplished in a single visit
• Remain relaxed for sensitive or complex procedures
• Shut down your reflexes to make a procedure easier to undergo
• Ideal for patients with a sensitive gag reflex
• Helps those who suffer from dental phobia and dental anxiety

Try Sedation at Dentistry of Nashville on Your Next Visit!

At Dentistry of Nashville, we understand that some patients get stressed over their dental visits. We offer sedation dentistry to ensure that you feel comfortable and relaxed during your appointment. Feel free to take all of the stress out of your next appointment by letting us know that you want sedation dentistry – we always put your needs first at Dentistry of Nashville. Contact us to make an appointment and see what we can do for your smile.

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By: Richard

5 Extractions 9 Implants in all. I wanted to see a new country having lived in states all my life….so I considered Europe, Thailand and India, I never saw this guide but did some research on the Internet, got quotes and even spoke on phone. Finally settled for India, because I knew English is widely spoken and for a procedure like implants I wanted to be able to communicate with the dentist well. I chose center for dental implants & esthetics in Delhi suburb called Gurgam.
Young team of 4-5 folks ..it’s a boutique dental office- they mostly focus on implants and that’s what I wanted. All the dentist and their patient care team speak good English, so no problem there. They managed my accommodation, mid-range hotel but absolutely no problem was around $50-60 I believe.
First visit for 7 days. Day 1 Set of X-rays were done again, done thorough examination dental chart was prepared. Left for sight seeing OLD DELHI, what culture, came back again in the evening – discussed the treatment plan. They work on Sundays too…so over the weekend all extractions were done and sutures placed, medication was given.
Day 3 after review found ok to go for sight seeing. Day 4 went to Taj Mahal what a sight….marvelous structure did some shopping. Day 5 -Day7 more tour in Delhi and flight back to Alabama.
Second visit after 4 months another 7 days I kept 3 days exclusively for Rajasthan – Jaipur & Jodhpur….loved it.
The whole process was smooth. They will help you with visa and air tickets too, prompt with request and I learnt they throw in surprise package for companion, although I was alone. I saved almost 25K in the whole deal but it’s worth your time and effort. I will recommend them for their treatment planning.

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Have You Brought Your Toddler in to the Dentist Yet?

Do you know the recommended age to bring your child to the dentist?

Your first year with a baby is a busy one. The parents are just getting used to their routine and to fulfilling the many needs of their new child. From preliminary visits to the pediatrician to ensuring you have enough diapers, there are a wide range of new concerns when you have your first baby.  It’s also recommended to bring them in for their first dental appointment by the end of their first year their first teeth are beginning to erupt.

What to Expect During Your Baby’s Visit

The main purpose of your child’s initial visit to the dentist is to get them accustomed to the dental care process. At age one, your child will only have a fraction of their baby teeth. During the appointment, your child will meet the dentist, sit in the dental chair, and undergo an exam.

3 Reasons the First Dental Appointment is Important

1. Get them used to seeing the dentist

Throughout their life, your child will be responsible for visiting the dentist at least twice each year. Taking them to the dentist as toddlers gets this process started early and sets the tone for excellent oral health well into the future. Experiences like sitting in the dental chair and keeping their mouth open for an exam will prepare your child for a lifetime of effective oral care.

2. Catch any ailments before they get worse

By the time they’re one, your child has most likely tried a wide variety of foods. Even if you’re committed to only giving them the best, their daycare workers or other relatives may have spoiled them with sugary foods. The trip to the dentist is vital because it’s an opportunity to catch any dental problems that may be beginning to develop.

3. Learn the status of your child’s dental progress

During your child’s first dental appointment, you’ll learn the status of their teeth, how many they have, and whether there is anything unique about their mouth. Parents will appreciate this information because teeth in the rear parts of the mouth can be difficult to see, especially if they’re not fully formed yet.

Why You Shouldn’t Skip Your Kid’s Appointment

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), 20% of children between 2 and 5 years old have one untreated cavity. Skipping your child’s dental appointments sets them up to be one of those statistics. By taking care of their oral health needs at home and visiting our Nashville dentists, you can avoid cavities for your child. Why risk cavities developing in your toddler if it’s entirely preventable?

Bring Your Kid to Dentistry of Nashville Today!

Even if your kid doesn’t have all of their teeth yet, it’s still important to bring them to the dentist before their first birthday. Setting them up for success in this way will greatly benefit their oral health in the future. If you’re near the Nashville area, bring your child in to Dentistry of Nashville for an exam. Contact us with any questions – We hope to see you!

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By: taivin98

Hi Karen; did you go? I’m in your situation and need some advice from someone who has been there. I’m not worried about traveling alone, I just want to make sure I don’t get ripped off by the dentist incurring extra charges not mentioned. I’m told to get a written contract and study it very carefully and to see if the dentist guarantees their work in case something goes wrong with the work.

Thank you,

taivin98

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Understanding Acid – The True Culprit Behind Cavities

Sugar often takes the blame for being the worst food product for your teeth, but acid develops from this sugar and bacteria and eats away at the enamel. There are foods rich in this corrosive dental acid as well, and many of them are healthy. Learn more about this acid that grows from the sugars in your mouth and see how it takes its toll on your oral health.

How Acid Develops in Your Mouth

Everyone has a certain amount of acid in their mouths on a daily basis – the problem is when that acid is excessive or is left on the teeth to eat away at their enamel.

When you eat foods that contain simple sugars, acid grows from these and begins to erode the hard surfaces of the teeth. Bacteria and acid from the food you eat sticks to your teeth and the acids they produce do corrosive damage to their dentin, enamel, and cementum.

Eating Your Enamel – Acid and Your Oral Health

The biggest problem that arises from acid is that it eats holes through each layer of your teeth. Cavities are holes in the teeth and are caused by acid from sugars and bacteria. Tooth decay from acid eating away your enamel can cause a variety of problems:

• Weaken your tooth
• Cause pain as your tooth loses its structure
• Loosening or loss of your tooth
• Difficulty eating or chewing with your teeth
• Varying degrees of dental caries

3 Forms of Dental Caries (Cavities)

Arguably the most common problem caused by acid is that it eats craters out of your teeth and causes cavities. What most people do not know is that the type of cavity differs based on how many layers the acid has eaten through. These are the three stages of dental caries:

1. Dental Caries – Only the enamel is damaged
2. Dentinal Caries – The corrosion has progressed into the tooth’s dentin
3. Cementum Caries – The deepest and most rare form of cavities

Which Foods Cause the Most Acid?

All liquids have a rating on the pH meter that shows how acidic they are and food products do as well. The foods with a low pH level are highly acidic and can pose more of a threat to your oral health. Here are some of the foods that are known to be most acidic:

• Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit)
• Tomato products (pasta sauce, hot sauce, ketchup, salsa)
• Alcohol (beer, wine, liquor)
• Coffee
• Cranberries
• Fruit juices

Tips for Minimizing the Acid in Your Mouth

If left on your teeth, acidic foods can cause damage to them over time. But this doesn’t mean that avoiding every acidic food is the answer. Many acidic foods are healthy, so they still can have a consistent place in your pantry. Instead of avoiding acidic foods altogether, just follow these tips for keeping acid from causing dental damage to your teeth:

• Have water with highly acidic foods
• Visit your dentist – they can spot early dental erosion
• Drink lots of water – water and saliva help keep your mouth clean
• Use an enamel-building toothpaste
• Brush & floss twice daily – especially after acidic foods

Learn More about Preventing Acid at Dentistry of Nashville

Now that you understand why acid is one of the biggest threats to your oral health, you can take better actions to prevent it. Along with consistent home care, keeping up with your bi-annual dental visits will do a lot to keep your oral health intact. Drs. Fleming, Elan, and Vaughn have the experience to provide advanced dental treatments and improve your smile. Contact the Dentistry of Nashville today to see what we can do for you.

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See How Your Workouts Can Have a Dire Effect on Your Teeth

Did you know that certain aspects of being an athlete have a devastating effect on your teeth?

Whether you prefer to run for miles at a time or you’re a gym rat who loves tossing heavy weights around, your workout habits can be taking their toll on your oral health. Learn more about why this is and what can be done about it to ensure that your own smile stays healthy.  

The Shredded Body and Rotten Mouths of Olympians

For evidence of how athletes’ oral health is impacted by strenuous exercise, look to this study that focused on 278 visitors to the Olympic clinic and reported stunning facts about their declining oral health. At this clinic for Olympic athletes, at least 75% had diseased gums and 55% had cavities. About one-quarter of the athletes said their dental problems impacted their quality of life during the games. These stats beg the question – why are athlete’s teeth so bad?

3 Main Reasons that Athletes’ Teeth Often Suffer

From rowers to track stars, serious athletes run a greater risk of gum disease than the average person. It’s important to know that this dental damage isn’t caused by their workout at all – it’s caused by decisions that are made surrounding the workout. By keeping these pitfalls in mind, you can engage in your favorite physical activities without your teeth having to suffer for it.

1. Breathing Hard Causes Dry Mouth

Ever notice how it becomes difficult to breathe normally while running? This increased level of exertion means that more oxygen must be circulated throughout the body, and this manifests as harder and more frequent breathing. Ultimately, this leads to dry mouth, a condition that is terrible for your oral health. Dry mouth deprives the mouth of its main defense system: saliva.

1. Sports Drinks are Loaded with Sugar

Are you a fan of Gatorade, Powerade, and other popular sports drinks? It’s important to know that these beverages played a key role in the poor oral health of Olympic athletes in the aforementioned study. From runners to bodybuilders, numerous athletes tend to grab sports drinks that are marketed towards them, not knowing the damage they’re causing to their teeth. Considering that a basic 20oz Gatorade has over 30g of sugar, water is clearly a better option.

1. Snack Choices are Often Bad for the Teeth

Hours of intense exercise means that athletes need to refuel, and their choices are often pre-packaged, quick, and full of sugar. Whether your favorite sports snack includes protein bars, dried fruit, or trail mix, each of these sports snacks will take a toll on your oral health. Ensure that your mid-workout snacks are low in sugar to prevent damage to your smile.

Quick Tips for Keeping your Teeth Healthy While Working Out

While working out can take a toll on your smile, these consequences can be easily avoided with a few steps. Check out these quick tips for keeping your teeth healthy as an athlete:  

 

• Choose Water Instead of Sports Drinks

 

You need to stay hydrated during your workout and water can make that happen without filling your body with extra sugar.

 

• Make Your Own Electrolyte Water Sports Drink

 

If replenishing electrolytes is a concern, there’s still no need to rely on store-bought sports drinks. With a few simple ingredients, you can make your own instead! Finding your own favorite recipe for an electrolyte rich sports drink will save you money on brand name sports drinks. Try these five variations you can make yourself.

 

• Plan Healthy Snacks Instead of Packaged Sports Bars

 

While there are some healthy, natural, and low sugar options for protein bars and sports snacks, most of them advertise as if they’re healthy while being loaded with ingredients that aren’t. Take the guess work out of it by putting together some snacks you can be proud of: Look to natural snacks like baby carrots, cucumbers, apples, and bananas to keep you fueled for your workout.

Count on Dentistry of Nashville to Restore Your Smile!

Our Nashville dentists have a strong appreciation for athletic hobbies. In fact, water skiing, tennis, and other sports are among our favorite activities. We understand that serious athletes face additional risks to their oral health that the average person does not. You can depend on us to examine your unique condition and put together a treatment plan that takes your needs into account – Contact us today!

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3 Ways to Enhance Your Smile at Dentistry of Nashville

Most people spend time getting their bodies in shape for the summer, but what about your smile? Your smile is the first thing people see when they meet you and a great smile conveys positive things to the world. Whether your smile has been impacted by stains or has sustained damage over the years, there are reliable treatments that will restore it to its former glory.

From a simple in-office teeth whitening procedure to porcelain veneers which act as shells attached to your teeth, it’s very likely that we offer a solution to enhance your smile at Dentistry of Nashville.

Brighten your Smile with In-Office Whitening

If you’re a fan of your morning cup of coffee or evening glass of wine, then your teeth may have been affected by staining. While this doesn’t harm the teeth, it alters the color of their outer layer, darkening your smile. Fortunately, our Nashville dentists offer a whitening service that can brighten your teeth by several shades.

Teeth Whitening

While over-the-counter teeth whitening kits have grown into a multi-billion-dollar industry, a more potent version is offered at our dental office. Take home trays are easy to use and thorough instructions will be given by our doctors. Proven to whiten your teeth by multiple shades throughout the day, take home whitening kits are an excellent value for those who want to enhance their smile.

Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants

Missing teeth can cause a lot of problems for your mental and physical health. Those with missing teeth don’t smile with as much confidence, and this can affect everything from dating to professional situations. In terms of overall health, missing teeth causes a negative impact to your nutrition, gums, and surrounding teeth. Filling your empty sockets with brand new dental implants will greatly enhance your smile.

Dental Implants

While dentures and dental bridges are also designed to replace missing teeth, dental implants are the superior method because they prevent the jawbone from shrinking. Other advantages include completely restored chewing and speaking ability, plus the fact that you don’t have to remove your dental implants. Not to mention, your dental implants appear as a natural looking smile and no one will be able to tell the difference.

Repair Your Smile with Porcelain Veneers

There are a wide variety of reasons why your teeth may have sustained damage. Perhaps it was from that time you tried to carry too many boxes down the stairs on moving day, or maybe when you took an elbow during an intense game of basketball. Whatever your reasons for sustaining damage to them, chipped and cracked teeth cannot always be repaired – but your smile can be. Learn more about how porcelain veneers are used to hide your dental damage and restore a perfect smile.

Porcelain Veneers

One all-encompassing treatment that is used to cover up a wide range of dental ailments is the porcelain veneer. Essentially a porcelain shell that gets bonded to each tooth, veneers enable the dentist to hide a massive variety of problems. These include:

• Cracked Teeth
• Stained Teeth
• Crooked Teeth
• Decayed Teeth
• Broken Teeth
• Chipped Teeth

Regardless of the damage sustained to your teeth, a veneer can cover it up with durable, natural-looking material. The result is a realistic looking, completely restored smile that you can be proud of.

How Will You Enhance Your Smile This Summer?

Whenever you get the urge to do something to boost your appearance, remember that your smile is a major part of that. With decades of experience between them, there are a lot of ways that Drs. Elam, Vaughan, and Fleming can brighten, repair, and restore your smile. Contact Dentistry of Nashville with your questions or make an appointment – Our staff would love to hear from you!

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It’s Time to See the Dentist – Here’s Why

Between shuttling the kids to school and practice, holding down a full-time job, and trying to exercise, it’s hard to find time for anything.

Balancing a busy schedule is commonplace. And it’s great to lead an active life! But it’s imperative that you have your priorities in order, with your health topping that list. Unfortunately, we notice that a lot of people let their dental health fall by the wayside.

Part of a healthy oral hygiene regimen involves visiting a dentist every 6 months, but sometimes, there are telltale signs that you should pay yours a visit a bit sooner. Nashville dentists Drs. Elam, Fleming, and Vaughan are here today to discuss four red flags that indicate it’s time to see the dentist.

1. See the Dentist if Your Gums are Bleeding

One of the things that never fails to shock us at Dentistry of Nashville is just how many people think that it’s normal for their gums to bleed. Bleeding gums are indicative of serious oral health problems that need to be immediately addressed.

Bleeding gums can indicate

• Gingivitis – Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. Bleeding, swollen, and tender gums are major indicators of the condition.
• Poor Brushing Habits – If you brush with anything harder than a soft-bristled toothbrush, you’re inflicting major damage on your gums.
• Adverse Reaction to Medications – Certain blood thinners are known to cause the gums to bleed.

If you notice a little blood in the sink, don’t ignore it. Get to your dentist as soon as you can.

2. See the Dentist if You Drink Coffee or Alcohol Regularly

We understand that it’s a tall task to ask our patients to quit their coffee habits. For some people, a morning cup of joe (or two) is the only way to properly start their days. Couple that with a few drinks of alcohol at night and your teeth are in major danger.

Tinted drinks like coffee, soda, and red wine have dark pigment in their chemical makeup, which can get stuck in the microscopic cracks of your enamel. If you don’t clean them promptly and properly, your teeth can end up permanently stained.

Next time you look in the mirror, check to see if your enamel has yellow or brown stains. If you notice some, give your dentist a call. It may be time to schedule a deep cleaning.

3. See the Dentist if You’re in Pain

You probably want to see the dentist anyway if you have a toothache. Toothaches are much more than minor inconveniences—they’re crises. They can be distracting, painful, and indicative of much more severe health problems.

Common causes of toothaches include:

• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Infection
• Malocclusion (bad bite)
• Teeth grinding

If your mouth is in pain, don’t ignore it. The condition may not go away on its own. Keep your toothaches at bay by visiting your Nashville dentist as soon as you feel that something isn’t quite right.

4. See the Dentist if You Have Headaches

Headaches and oral health are closely linked. If you wake up in the morning with headaches, you may be grinding your teeth while you sleep. This not only causes a bad headache but can lead to damaged teeth and jaw disorders.

Plus, your dental health and sinuses are connected. When your sinuses grow inflamed due to sinusitis or sinus infections, your upper teeth and jaw can start to ache. Persistent and recurrent sinusitis can cause you to breathe through your mouth, which may dry it out and allow the bacteria to grow more quickly.

Make an Appointment with Your Nashville Dentist

Regular visits to the dentist can help prevent long-term oral health problems and ensure that your teeth stay healthy and strong. Make an appointment with Dentistry of Nashville to take charge of your oral health and maintain a bright and happy smile.

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Father’s Day Gift Ideas from Dentistry of Nashville

Father’s Day is just around the corner. Here in Nashville, families enjoy Father’s Day barbecues, outings, and spending time appreciating all of the wonderful things that dads do year round.

Why not think outside the box when shopping for gifts this year? There are plenty of thoughtful and useful things for dad that you can get in your dentist’s office. Why not get him something that will leave him smiling all summer long?

Teeth Whitening

As we age, our teeth tend to grow yellow or discolored. Unless your dad takes impeccable care of his teeth, he may benefit from teeth whitening treatments from the Dentistry of Nashville.

A professional teeth whitening treatment is a great and affordable way to help your dad regain confidence in his smile. We offer take-home teeth whitening treatments so he can whiten and brighten his teeth from the comfort of his home.

The Dentistry of Nashville’s take-home whitening kits consist of trays that fit over your teeth. The trays are filled with a whitening agent, and over time, the agents will reduce the appearance of stains and discoloration.

Veneers

If your dad has crooked, cracked, or misshapen teeth, he might appreciate veneers. Veneers are thin, porcelain shells that mimic the appearance of natural teeth. Because they can be individually tailored to his needs, veneers can repair even the most damaged of smiles.

A lot of Hollywood stars have perfected their signature grins with veneers because they yield stunning results. The entire process only takes a few visits, too. First, your dad will meet with our Nashville team to discuss the treatment plan best for him. He and the dentist will decide how many veneers are needed as well as the size and shape.

Next, he’ll have his teeth prepared. Depending on the state and nature of his teeth, he may have them polished or shaved down a bit to make room for the restorations. This process won’t hurt and can be completed very quickly. He’ll walk out of the office that day with a set of temporary veneers until the custom ones are ready.

Finally, he will return to our office to have the beautiful final pieces cemented to the front of his teeth. They will be so securely bonded to the front of his teeth that only a dental drill or laser would be able to remove them. After that, he’s finished! He will be able to flash his beautiful, straight smile for a lifetime.

Invisalign

If your dad paid for your braces when you were a teen, now could be the time to return the favor. If his teeth are crooked or misaligned, he may be able to benefit from Invisalign.

Invisalign aligners are clear, plastic retainers that fit over crooked teeth. Every few weeks, the aligners will be changed to slowly straighten crooked teeth, with the end result being a straight and beautiful smile.

And the best part? Invisalign aligners are completely invisible! Your dad won’t have to worry about dealing with noticeable metal wires and brackets, giving him the freedom to eat and smile without embarrassment.

Father’s Day Gifts at the Dentistry of Nashville

Drs. Elam, Fleming, and Vaughan aren’t just dentists—they’re all fathers, too. They love Father’s Day and spending time with their children and grandchildren in celebration. Why not take their advice and get dad something that he could use for the rest of his life—a confident smile! Contact our office for other Father’s Day dental work ideas.  

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Country Music Mecca — 5 Cool Facts About the Nashville Music Scene

From the twang of a banjo to the smooth blare of a harmonica, the foundation of Nashville is inarguably rooted in music. Dubbed “Music City U.S.A” back in 1950, the down-home sounds of the music scene here in Nashville continue to be heard across the country.

The influences of country music can be traced to gospel, bluegrass, and R&B. With the Nashville music scene dating all the way back to the 1700s, there are plenty of interesting facts that would surprise even the most dedicated country music buff.

1. The History Of “Music City U.S.A”

So, where did our hometown get the name Music City? There are several theories regarding Nashville’s nickname. Some believe the moniker can actually be attributed to WSM-AM announcer David Cobb who named Nashville “Music City U.S.A” on air back in 1950.

Others believe that the name originated from the Fisk Jubilee Singers from Nashville’s Fisk University. The group is one of the first musical acts to tour around the world. Rumor has it that Queen Victoria is responsible for the nickname because she said that the singers must come from the “Music City.”

2. Evolution of the Grand Ole Opry

There’s no question that the Grand Ole Opry is a key part of Nashville’s country music legacy. It all started with a Saturday night broadcast from WSM radio company that featured country music — known as the WSM Barn Dance. The program debuted on the night of November 28, 1925, with a fiddle player named Uncle Jimmy Thompson.

Quickly gaining popularity, the show now known as the Grand Ole Opry moved to a performance hall in order to accommodate the live audience. After several moves, the show eventually made its home at the Grand Ole Opry House in 1974.

3. A Songwriter’s Paradise

Boasting an impressive and eclectic music scene, Nashville is also known as the “Songwriting Capital of the World.” Musicians and songwriters flock to our city for its unique charm and opportunities to better their craft.

Bluebird Cafe, located just outside of downtown, is considered paradise for up-and-coming artists. The venue is recognized worldwide as a space for artists to perform their own songs. Garth Brooks is one of the many performers known to regularly play Bluebird Cafe’s open mic before he was discovered and signed to Capitol Records.

The popularity of Bluebird Cafe continues to solidify the city’s songwriting reputation with its regular appearance on the popular ABC drama, Nashville. The cafe is an important piece of the drama’s plotline showcasing the music industry in Nashville.

4. Home of The Country Music Association

If you’re a fan of country music, chances are that you’ve heard about the Country Music Association. This association was founded in Nashville back in 1958 to promote country music. According to the CMA, the association was formed in response to the growing popularity of rock ‘n’ roll on the radio.

The CMA started out with just 160 members and now has more than 7,500 professionals representing different areas of the country music industry. Today, the association is best known for the annual televised CMA Awards.

5. The Birth of Nashville Sound at RCA Studio B

What eventually became known as the distinct Nashville sound began at RCA Studio B, which was originally known as just RCA Studios in the 1960s. The famous recording studio is credited as reviving the popularity of country music and establishing the city as a music recording hub.

Some country music’s heroes like Waylon Jennings, Dolly Parton, and Willie Nelson have recorded in Studio B. The historic studio is now a popular cultural attraction for both locals and tourists.

Country Music Hits a High Note in Nashville

Whether you like the steady rhythm of Johnny Cash or the pop-infused sounds of Carrie Underwood, there’s no question that our city is the place to soak up country music culture for all honky tonk connoisseurs.
Don’t believe us? Just look at Nashville’s impressive legacy and contributions to our favorite music genre!

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Your Recovery from Dental Implant Surgery

 

 

These days it’s no surprise that so many people are choosing dental implants, the healthy, convenient, and long-lasting choice for replacing missing teeth.  This revolutionary technology offers numerous advantages over dentures and dental bridges, the two most common alternative treatments.

Preview the Dental Implant Process

Once you and your dentist have determined that dental implants are the best solution for replacing your missing teeth, one of our dedicated dental health specialists will sit down with you and come up with a timetable that matches your schedule.  At this point we will go over the entire dental implant process with you and address any questions or concerns you may have.

The Dental Implant Process

The dental implant process typically requires 3 to 6 months to complete.  However, this timetable could be expanded if our doctors determine that you require any additional procedures, such as bone grafting or treatment for gum disease,  to prepare for dental implants.

Here’s a list of the steps involved in the dental implant process, including pre-surgery procedures which you may not require:

• Preparation of the surgical site. Any damaged or broken teeth are removed.
• Pre-implant procedures. Dentist performs pre-surgery treatments, such as bone grafting or treatment for gum disease.
• Your fixture is surgically fitted.
• Your jawbone becomes firmly integrated with the fixture.
• Your abutment and crown are attached to you implant.

Your Post-Surgery Instructions

We will provide you with detailed written instructions on how to prepare for each stop of the dental implant process, but please don’t hesitate to call us at any point if you have any concerns at all.  This is your smile we’re talking about and you have every right to know what to expect at every stage of the process.

Follow our Directions for Quick and Healthy Recovery

The surgical fitting of the dental implant fixture to your jawbone is a crucial to the success of the entire implant.  It’s essential that the fixture forms a strong bond with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration to anchor the entire dental implant to your mouth.  That’s why it’s so important that you follow your dentist’s directions during your recovery from the procedure.

Expect Some Swelling and Bleeding After Dental Implant Surgery

It really helps to know what to expect going into the dental implant process.  For example, some pain, bleeding, and swelling are a natural part of the recovery process and it should not alarm you to be feeling some discomfort after your implant fixture has been surgically fitted to your jaw.

Patients commonly experience some swelling after the fixture is fitted.  Typically the swelling reaches its peak 2 to 3 days after the procedure is completed.  However, your level of pain should reach its highest level about six hours after surgery.  You can place an ice pack on your cheekbone above the surgical site and you can should also use your pain medication as directed by your dentist.  And if your dentist prescribes any antibiotics, be sure to take all of them in order to fight against possible infection.

Like swelling, bleeding is another common side effect of dental implant surgery.  You can change your gauze every 30 to 45 minutes as necessary.  Wetting your gauze and biting down on it can make this process easier.  You should not feel alarmed if blood continues to leak from the site for up to 48 hours after the surgery.  But again, please feel free to contact our office about any concerns you might have.

Additional Side Effects Following Dental Implant Surgery

Dry lips and bruising on the cheek are two additional side effects that are a common part recovery from dental implant surgery.  You can use a lubricant such as Vaseline to treat your lips and the bruising should begin to subside by 2 to 3 days after the surgery.

Things to Avoid Following Dental Implant Surgery

In order to ensure a healthy recovery, the following should be avoided for at least five days following your implant surgery:

• Strenuous physical activity
• Drinking from a straw
• Nicotine
• Alcoholic beverages
• Hot drinks such as coffee and tea
• Hard and crunchy foods

Your New Smile

Once your dental implant fixture has been successfully fitted, you are on your way to having that new smile.  You will look and feel attractive, healthy, and ready to face the world with a new sense of confidence.  Call us today at Dentistry of Nashville to find out what dental implants can do for you.

 

 

 

 

 

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By: Karen

Going to either Mexico or Costa Rica for Dental Tourism. I need to have bridge put in over two teeth. Must fix cavity on one of teeth before getting bridge. Would I be able to get work done completely within 3-7 days? Can anyone tell me where to go and who to see to get this work done? I need to have work done soon, so cavity doesn’t get worse. Local USA dentist said price would be ~$3000. I don’t have dental insurance and I don’t have money for it either. I would need a loan or put on credit card. I would be going alone on this trip and I’m >60 yrs old. Is this a good idea? I’ve not done anything like this before. Worried about going to terrible dentist. Not sure how to find out information about clinic and dentist.
Please help give me information. Thank you.

from Comments on: Dental Tourism – Interviews & Experiences of Treatment Abroad http://ift.tt/2oZnGG6

Protect Your Smile: Top 5 Reasons To Wear A Mouthguard

Whether you’re racing down the field for a touchdown or going for a slam dunk on the court, the last thing on an athlete’s mind is the health of their smile. Despite this seemingly unrelated topic, more dental accidents occur while playing sports than you might think.

According to Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, dentists estimate that between 13% and 39% of dental injuries occur while playing sports. What’s even more, 80% of all dental injuries affect at least one of the front teeth.

Although many athletes neglect the safety of their teeth, it’s critical to address this issue to avoid dental trauma. In celebration of National Facial Protection Month, all of us here at Dentistry of Nashville encourage our patients to protect their smiles by wearing a mouthguard while playing any contact sports.

Why Is It Important To Wear A Mouthguard?

The importance of wearing a mouthguard should not be overlooked. Some of the top reasons to wear a mouthguard while playing contact sports include:

1. Avoid Fractures: The most obvious benefit of wearing a mouthguard is protecting your teeth from breaking. If a fracture does occur, there are still several dental treatments that can save your tooth. However, we believe that preventative measures should be taken to avoid this problem altogether.
2. Avoid Tooth Displacement: Even if your teeth remain intact without any chips or fractures, they can still be displaced. Displacement occurs when the tooth still remains partially or completely in the socket but has shifted. This is particularly dangerous because it can cause your tooth to move easily after the accident.
3. Protect Your Jaw: A mouthguard can also be a useful tool for protecting your jaw. In the instance of impact, a mouthguard can help to absorb the shock and prevent a painful injury to the jaw.
4. Protect Soft Tissue: A mouthguard is useful for protecting the soft tissues of the mouth, including the gums, cheeks, and lips. During impact, many athletes can bite through their lower lip or inner cheek. Wearing a mouthguard can protect your teeth along with these soft tissues.
5. Save Money: In the end, investing money in a mouthguard will save you the pain and financial burden of costly treatment for dental injuries.

The Most Common Dental Injuries For Athletes

According to the American Dental Assistants’ Association, approximately 5 million Americans lose teeth due to injuries related to sports. The most common types of injuries fall into three categories:

• Cracked teeth
• Fractured roots
• Tooth intrusion

No matter what category your dental trauma falls in, it’s critical to treat the issue as soon as possible. Avoiding treatment can impact the rest of your teeth, and you may even end up losing a tooth that initially could have been saved.

Types Of Mouthguards

If you’ve decided to invest in a mouthguard, we’d like to congratulate you on taking the first step to protecting your smile and dental health! The next important step is choosing the right mouthguard according to your budget and preferences.

A mouthguard should be resilient, comfortable, and not restrict your breathing. Some of your choices for mouthguards include:

• Custom-made mouthguards: A custom-made device provides the best fit and the most protection. The mouthguard is made by taking an impression of your teeth to perfectly fit your mouth. While this is the most comfortable, effective option, it is also the most expensive.
• Boil-and-bite mouthguards: These types of mouthguards come pre-formed and can be fitted by boiling the mouthguard and biting down. Most boil-and-bite mouthguards can be found at sporting good stores and are a more comfortable option than stock mouthguards.
• Stock mouthguards: These mouthguards are preformed and ready to wear. These can often be the least comfortable.

Mouthguard Maintenance

Maintaining your mouthguard is also important for protecting your smile. According to a 2011 study published in Sports Medicine, researchers found a variety of molds and bacteria on the mouthguards of football players. Properly cleaning and caring for your mouthguard will ensure your mouth stays clear of bacteria while protecting your teeth. Some of the best ways to maintain your mouthguard include:

• Keeping your mouthguard in a clean dry area between games
• Rinse and brush your mouthguard before and after use
• Soak your mouthguard in soapy water and rinse for thorough cleanings
• Never leave your mouthguard in hot water or the hot sun
• Look for signs of wear and replace your mouthguard when necessary

Contact Dentistry Of Nashville

Do you have additional questions about protecting your smile while playing sports? No matter what your dental concerns are, we are here to assist you! From family dentistry to restorative treatment, your smile is in the best hands possible with us! Contact our office today to learn more about how we can give you a healthier, beautiful smile.

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Quit These Habits To Maintain Health Teeth

Your teeth are vital for your overall health and longevity. Strong and healthy teeth, helps you speak and eat with ease and helps keep your gums in great shape. Keeping your teeth healthy is very important to do. Maintaining them is necessary if you want to prevent oral diseases and the spreading of bacterial infections throughout the body.

Although many people may have a fantastic regimen to keep their pearly whites strong, certain common practices can have negative effects. View our top 5 common habits that can cause damage to your teeth.

1. Chewing Ice Cubes

While chewing on ice cubes can be refreshing for the body on a hot day, your teeth may not enjoy it. Chewing ice can cause micro-cracks in the enamel and can cause tooth sensitivity over time. Chewing on ice can also damage the gums and cause gum recession.

Surprisingly, craving ice is often a sign of iron deficiency and stress. Sometimes taking iron pills can make the ice craving go away. Next time that you choose to chew on ice, substitute it for a great snack like carrots or celery, that will provide the same crunch effect but with healthy vitamins.

If you feel like you crave ice all of the time, speak to your healthcare professional to determine any further medical concerns.

2. Brushing Forcefully

Many people believe that the harder that you brush, the cleaner your teeth will be. That is not the case brushing your teeth too hard can actually cause many serious problems to your teeth and gums. If you apply too much pressure to your teeth when brushing your teeth, you run the risk of developing receding gums, cavities and enamel wear. Below you will find a few signs of over brushing.

• Enamel wear
• Receding gums
• Cavities on teeth

Dental professionals recommend that you brush your teeth with a gentle toothbrush while using soft gentle strokes in a circular motion around each tooth. It is recommended that you brush your teeth for 2-3 mins to get optimal results. Finish your routine with flossing in between your teeth and using a mouthwash.

3. Teeth Grinding

Over 30 to 40 million Americans grind their teeth consciously or unconsciously. The behavior is also called bruxism. It’s important for people who suffer from this disorder understand the consequences that happen to your oral health. It can cause chips, pain, and discomfort to your enamel.

If you don’t know if you suffer from teeth grinding, there are many symptoms that are noticeable when you are awake. Some of these symptoms include:

• Dull constant headache
• Sore jaw
• Someone hears your grinding during your sleep
• Indentations on your tongue
• Tooth sensitivity

If you suspect that you may have the teeth grinding condition, schedule an appointment with your dental professional. They will provide the solution to combat the problem.

4. Consuming Sugary Foods

According to the National Institutes of Health, 58% of teens aged 12 to 19 have cavities, with adults 20-64 at an astonishing 92%. Consumption of sugar is a primary reason that cavities and tooth decay are at a rise in the United States.

When you consume sugar, mouth bacteria feed on it. The bacteria then leaves its residue on your teeth, which leads to gum disease, tartar, and cavities. To prevent this, make sure to consume less sugar in your diet and to brush your teeth after indulging in it.

5. Biting Your Nails or Cuticles

Biting your nails is a common habit that can cause by nervousness. According to the American Psychiatric Association, biting your nails is considered a form of the obsessive compulsive disorder. In a study conducted by a few researchers, nail biting is common in 45% of all teenagers of either gender.

Many people may not realize the damage that nail biting can cause on the enamel of the teeth. According to Colgate, patients who bite their nails chip the enamel away from their front teeth due to the pressure and stress caused to the enamel. In addition to the damage that it causes to the enamel of the tooth, a person can develop bruxism (teeth grinding) as a result of this habit.

Your dental professional may prescribe a mouth guard to help prevent patients from further biting their nails, resulting in damaging their teeth. Other professionals may develop a therapy that patients can learn that helps them learn different techniques that will eliminate them from biting their nails or cuticles.

Contact Us

Maintaining healthy teeth is important if you want to have great overall health. Our doctors and staff are dedicated to helping all of their patients achieve great oral health. If you have further questions on how to maintain a great oral health contact us today.

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8 Foods To Eat For A Better Smile

March is National Nutrition Month, a time when we raise awareness of the importance of making healthy diet and exercise choices. While most of us understand that choosing good food has an effect on our overall health, we find that a lot of our patients forget to take their teeth into account.

In observance of National Nutrition Month, the Dentistry of Nashville team is here to offer a list of the 8 best foods to eat to keep your teeth healthy.

1. Tea

Black and green teas are full of polyphenols, compounds that slow the growth of bacterias that cause cavities and gum disease. Researchers from the University of Chicago found that people who rinsed their mouths with black tea for 1 minute 10 times per day had less plaque buildup on their teeth as opposed to those who rinsed with water. Even more, the size and stickiness of their plaque was reduced as well.

Not only does tea prevent bacteria from clumping together with other bacteria, it can also keep bad breath at bay. Those polyphenols suppress the genes of bacteria that stimulate the production of smelly compounds in the mouth.

2. Cheese

Recent studies found that teenagers aged 12-15 who ate cheddar cheese had lower levels of acid in their mouths than those who ate yogurt or milk. This signifies that cheese can neutralize acidic compounds around the teeth, compounds that can cause cavities and gum disease.

Cheese also stimulates saliva production, which washes away bacteria and debris.

3. Raisins

Natural raisins are sweet without the addition of sucrose, better known as table sugar.  The bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and produce an acid waste, which is the primary cause of cavities. Raisins are a source of phytochemicals as well, which kill cavity-causing plaque and bacteria.

4. Crunchy Fruits And Vegetables

You’ve probably been hearing about the health benefits of fruits and vegetables since you were young, so it should come as no surprise that they also help your teeth.

Crisp produce such as apples, celery and carrots act like natural toothbrushes. When you chew on them, their fibers scrub against your enamel and help remove plaque and other harmful bacteria.

5. Vitamin-rich Foods

Foods containing calcium—such as cheese, almonds and leafy greens—and foods high in phosphorous—like meat, eggs and fish—can help keep tooth enamel strong and healthy. Foods and drinks with high acid levels can cause tiny, damaging lesions on tooth enamel. Calcium and phosphate help redeposit minerals back into those lesions, repairing damaged enamel as you eat.

Calcium also strengthens bones, including those in your jaw. This helps prevent tooth loss and jawbone deterioration.

6. Sugarless Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum after meals and snacks can help rinse off and neutralize the acids released by the bacteria in plaque, which are harmful to tooth enamel. Both the act of chewing and the flavor of the artificial sweeteners in the gum stimulate 10 times the normal rate of saliva flow. Not only does saliva neutralize the acids in your mouth, it also washes away food particles, helping keep your teeth clean.

In addition, sugar-free gum sweetened with xylitol has the added benefit of inhibiting the growth of streptococcus mutans, one of the oral bacteria that cause cavities. In the presence of xylitol, the bacteria lose the ability to adhere to the tooth, halting the cavity formation process. With xylitol use over a period of time, the types of bacteria in the mouth change and fewer decay-causing bacteria survive on tooth surfaces.

7. Milk

The sugar present in milk is lactose, which is the least damaging type of sugar for your teeth. This gives milk a sweet and tasty quality while not being harmful to teeth. In fact, the calcium in milk strengthens and revitalizes enamel that has been damaged by acidic foods.

Additionally, studies have shown that when cavity-causing foods are eaten along with milk, like a sugary chocolate chip cookie, the milk can help protect the teeth from damage. If you’re lactose intolerant or don’t drink milk, ask your dentist about other calcium-rich foods and toothpastes that can remineralize your teeth.

8. Cranberries

The enzymes in cranberries pack a powerful punch. Along with stopping the bacteria before they start to feed on sugars in your mouth, they may also disrupt the production of glucan, one of the main components of plaque.

While helping you fight plaque formation, a single glass of 100% cranberry juice can also:

• Lower cholesterol
• Treat colds and sore throats
• Boost eyesight
• Lower blood pressure
• Fight free-radicals

Learn More About The Best Foods To Keep Your Teeth Healthy

The Dentistry of Nashville team is dedicated to enhancing the smiles of each and every patient that comes through our doors. But visiting your dentist every 6 months is only half the battle toward a healthy smile. Ensuring that you eat properly and establish a good dental health routine is essential in attaining bright, healthy teeth.

If you want to learn more about the best cavity-fighting foods, contact our office to make an appointment today.

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