What Happens If You Go to Bed Without Brushing Your Teeth?

We know you’re a busy person with a full-time job, a family, and household chores that don’t do themselves. So every now and then you fall to bed exhausted. By the time you begin to drift off, you remember you didn’t brush your teeth before bed. You may think to yourself, “Okay, how bad can it be to only brush once a day?”.

Skipping that second brushing means that everything you have eaten throughout the day sticks around on and between your teeth, leaving bacteria to feast on your teeth overnight. This bacteria naturally reside in the mouth, and just like every other living organism, these bacteria excrete waste after a meal. This waste is highly acidic and breaks down tooth enamel, causing cavities. And let’s not forget: Your breath will smell really bad. Not brushing your teeth lets bacteria multiply inside your mouth, eventually leading to a buildup of fuzzy, foul-smelling plaque.

When you hit the hay without brushing, plaque starts to harden on your teeth. Once this happens, it’s impossible to remove with a toothbrush and floss and can only be removed by visiting your dentist for a teeth cleaning.

What’s the worst that could happen?

Besides cavities, the build-up of plaque can lead to gum disease. The first sign is inflammation. You’ll have gums that bleed when you brush or floss. The gums see plaque buildup as an infection, so your immune system springs into action to attack that infection. When plaque build-up and inflammation is present long-term it can cause damage. By attacking the plaque buildup, your body starts to destroy the healthy tissues that hold your teeth in place, making the gums begin to pull away from the tooth. The good news is, if caught early enough, it can be reversed by treatment from your dentist and sticking to a good oral health routine.

This isn’t something that is going to happen overnight. The buildup of plaque that causes gum disease takes around 24 to 48 hours to develop, so if you forget to brush your teeth before bed every once in a while, it’s okay. Brushing your teeth the next morning will disrupt the bacteria before it gets a chance to really screw up your teeth and gums. But, if you make a habit of not brushing and flossing before bed, cavities and gum disease will definitely be in your future.

BOTTOM LINE: BRUSHING YOUR TEETH ONCE A DAY ISN’T GOING TO CUT IT.

A Springtime Smile Makeover

Spring is right around the corner. Often accompanying the long-awaited warmer weather is the desire to look like the best version of yourself after hiding away all winter. When you’re planning your springtime makeover, why not take time to address the most important part of any look – your smile?

One of the fastest and most affordable cosmetic dental treatments is professional teeth whitening. Just like with any makeover, teeth whitening is customized to your unique look, and our dentist will work with you to help achieve your ideal appearance.

Whether you’re a going to be a Spring bride or planning a tropical Spring Break, you’ll smile wider knowing your teeth sparkle in all your memorable photos.

What about problems like fractures in your enamel, mild misalignment, crowding, gaps between teeth, and more? Fortunately, we have a solution for these issues as well!

Start spring with a fresh face and a dazzling smile. Our experienced cosmetic dentists can help you achieve the bright smile you’ve always wanted. You’ll be leaving our office in Clarksville, TN with a revitalized new look and a gorgeous set of pearly whites you can be proud of!

New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthy Smile

2019 is here and a new year is often a time for us to turn our focus to setting resolutions. For many of us, some of our most important goals are to establish healthier habits, whether it is working out more, eating less, and perhaps even taking better care of our teeth. While you are resolving to improve to make a healthier “new you” don’t forget to include your mouth! After all, oral health has such a direct impact on our health overall.

Like any goal, it is important to break your goal down into smaller, attainable S.M.A.R.T steps that can be achieved over a long period of time.

Here are a few tips our dental team has put together to help you meet your New Year resolution for a healthy smile.

1> MAKE SURE TO FLOSS: While most of us remember to brush our teeth at least twice a day, not as many of us can say that we floss the recommended once-per-day. Flossing helps remove food and bacteria from between the teeth and is a huge factor in preventing gum disease. By making it a habit to floss every day this year, you will be doing yourself and your mouth a considerable favor.

2> VISIT THE DENTIST: If it has been more than 6 months since your last dental cleaning, you’re due. The icky sticky goo can cause gum disease, bad breath, and other dental issues.No one knows better than your dentist when it comes to keeping your mouth healthy. Scheduling regular checkups allows your us to monitor your dental health and address any concerns before they become bigger problems.

3> EAT HEALTHY: A healthy diet is important for maintaining good dental health. Sugary and highly acidic food and drinks are bad for your teeth and can lead to a build-up of the bacterias that lead to tooth decay. Make a point this year to incorporate more tooth-healthy foods such as dairy, veggies and fruits in your daily diet.

4> STOP SMOKING: If you currently use tobacco, your risk for gum disease is doubled compared to a non-smoker. Instead, try out a healthier habit, like chewing sugar free gum, which stimulates the flow of saliva that washes away bacteria. Consider quitting this year. Your teeth, gums, and the rest of your body will thank you for it!

You owe a lot to those teeth and gums of yours. Do them a favor this New Year by practicing excellent dental health habits and smile big in 2019!

Home Remedies for a Toothache

Sudden toothaches are very painful, so much so that it can even hinder you from getting to your local dentist who can solve the problem. Toothache symptoms might include:

• Sharp tooth pain that feels like someone is stabbing at your tooth with something pointed, like a pick

• Throbbing tooth pain where you might feel like your tooth has its own heartbeat

• Inflammation around the tooth, such as in the gumline

• Red, irritated gums

• Generalized mouth pain that is hard to pinpoint

We understand tooth pain is not something to take lightly, so we wanted to provide some quick pain relief techniques using natural remedies to hold the pain at bay until you can get help. These are helpful because many of the items used to provide the relief can be found in almost every household.

 

Note: these pain relief techniques are only temporary and are in no way a substitute for seeking dental advice or help.

 

How to Stop a Toothache with Home Remedies

 

Saltwater Mouthwash

A common method for relieving tooth pain can be accomplished easily with just salt and warm water. This solution helps to loosen debris lodged in cavities or between teeth and may also reduce swelling and the aching sensation.

A saltwater rinse can be made by dissolving 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish around in the mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting out. This process can be repeated as often as needed.

 

Cold Compress

A cold compress or an ice pack can help ease the dental pain, especially if a toothache is due swollen gums. The application of a cold compress or ice pack will constrict the blood vessels in the affected area, slowing the flow of blood and helping to numb the pain

 

Garlic

Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which accounts for its powerful antibacterial properties.

A fresh clove of garlic should first be crushed and then mixed with a little salt, and the mixture applied to the affected tooth.

 

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

If a toothache is caused by infection, a hydrogen peroxide solution is an effective antibacterial mouthwash.

It should be mixed in equal parts of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and water and swished in the mouth for about 30 seconds. After spitting it out, the mouth should be rinsed several times with plain water.

 

Cloves

Cloves contain eugenol, a chemical compound that acts as a natural anesthetic. Its antibacterial properties can also help fight tooth infections.

Soak a small cotton ball with clove oil and apply it to the area affected by the painful tooth.

 

Onions

Onions are known for their antiseptic properties. They can provide pain relief by killing infection-causing germs.

At the first indication of trouble, simply chew a small slice of fresh onion for a few minutes, or you can hold the slice in your mouth and bite it to release the juices that soothe the pain.

 

Cucumber

If you want something that tastes better than onions and cloves, cucumber slices can actually help you get instant relief from a toothache. Cucumbers have hemostatic properties which may reduce the flow of blood around the affected tooth. This may give you some relief from pain, especially if it is a direct result of a recent root canal.

A slice of chilled, fresh cucumber can be held against the tooth that hurts. You can also try mashing some of the cucumber into a paste and applying it to the area.

Turmeric

Turmeric utilizes antiseptic and antibacterial properties that aid in relieving pain and swelling.

Make a paste using this spice and water, then apply to the tooth.

 

Apple Cider Vinegar

Not only does apple cider vinegar have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, but because it is acidic, it also kills the bacteria causing your toothache.

Soak a cotton ball in it and press it gently on the affected tooth.

 

The best way to prevent a toothache or dental abscesses is by keeping teeth and gums as healthy as possible. These home remedies are meant to provide temporary relief only. It is important to seek immediate treatment from a dentist once a toothache lasts for more than a day or two.

If dental pain is not treated straight away, it might lead to more serious problems, such as gum disease or a dental abscess. An abscess is caused when bacteria infect the innermost part of the tooth called a dental pulp. If you are experiencing tooth pain don’t hesitate to call our office immediately.

 

Root Canal Myths Busted!

The phrase “root canal” can be unnerving to a person who has never gone through the procedure. Well, we’re here to give you the scoop on this endodontic procedure, why it’s performed and why it could actually save your tooth.

 

Myth #1: Root Canals are painful.

Fact: You’ll be relieved to hear that root canals are performed to alleviate your pain, not cause it.

Because of the advanced techniques we use here in our office, it is usually a comfortable procedure without any pain.

Myth #2: Extractions are a good alternative to a root canal.

Fact: Keeping your natural teeth is always the best option. If the infection is caught early, a root canal can help preserve your natural tooth.

When a tooth is removed, it’s gone forever. Tooth loss can cause more problems down the road. Dentists only resort to tooth extraction in cases of the most severe infection.

Myth #3: A root canal causes illness.

Fact: If you do not have a root canal performed, you risk allowing bacteria from the infected tooth to spread throughout your body.

Root Canal Therapy “cleans” the infection out of the tooth and is recommended to prevent infection of the tissue around the affected tooth which may result in abscesses.

Myth #4: Root canals require multiple appointments.

Fact: Most root canals can be performed in about one to two hours in just one visit.

Those with more severe infections may have to come back for additional visits to make sure there are no complications and the infection has fully healed.

 

With proper care, teeth that have undergone root canal treatment can last a lifetime. For more information about root canal therapy, contact our office today!

Does Activated Charcoal Really Whiten Teeth?

Activated charcoal is a popular topic these days. a trend involving using activated charcoal to whiten the teeth has exploded on the internet. It’s hard to be on social media and not see someone using it for teeth whitening purposes. The question on everyone’s mind is, “does it REALLY work?”

What is Activated Charcoal?

It isn’t the same charcoal that you would use in your barbeque-although they are both made from the same base materials.

Activated charcoal is a finely milled black powder made from coconut shells, bone char, olive pits, coal, sawdust, or other materials. The charcoal is processed with high heat, which “activates” it. This changes its internal structure, making it more porous than regular charcoal.

Can Activated Charcoal Safely Whiten Teeth?

Activated charcoal has been FDA approved for many health uses. The American Dental Association has not currently approved any activated charcoal products for dentistry.

However, the chemical properties of activated charcoal are effective in absorbing plaque and other compounds that stain teeth – it binds to them, resulting in whiter teeth.

How to Do it

Generally, the mineral is sold in tablet form and can be purchased from your local health food store or pharmacy. In a container, grind up 1-2 tablets into a fine dust and add about 1-2 teaspoons of water to form a paste. Dab the mixture onto your teeth, rather than brushing it on, to avoid damaging your tooth enamel. Leave the activated charcoal paste on your teeth for three minutes to ensure that it has had enough time to bind with surface stains on your teeth, then thoroughly rinse your mouth out several times before brushing your teeth clean.

Use Activated Charcoal in Moderation

Teeth enamel doesn’t regrow. Once it’s gone, it’s gone forever. So, be cautious when using an abrasive substance on your teeth. Rather than brushing it on, consider smearing the product on your teeth. This allows it to whiten the teeth without harming the tooth enamel.

Most Common Denture Problems

Dentures are a widely used solution for tooth loss. A set of well-made and properly fitted dentures can improve a person’s appearance, boost their confidence, and make a huge difference in their daily lives. Today’s dentures are more comfortable and natural looking than they were in the past. However, if you don’t take proper care of your dentures, problems can occur.

Let’s take a look at the two most common denture problems and how they can be treated.

Ill-Fitting Dentures: Your dentures should rest snugly against the gums and not slide around. A common issue among denture wearers is ill-fitting dentures, which can cause mild or severe inflammation of the gums and be painful. When ill-fitting dentures begin to rub against the gums, it leads to soreness and swelling. If left untreated, this can lead to wearing dentures intolerable.

Because your jaw and gums can change after tooth removal, regular adjustments may be necessary to keep your dentures fitting properly. If left untreated, irritated gums and sore spots can easily become infected. If a sore spot develops, contact your dentist immediately to reduce the risk of infection.

 

Stains: Most dentures are made with acrylic and can become stained by many of the same substances that can stain natural teeth such as coffee, sodas, red wine, and smoking. Plaque and tartar can also build-up on dentures just as they do on natural teeth.

Cleaning your dentures properly can help control staining. Here are some tips for cleaning your dentures.

• At night, soak your dentures in a good cleaning solution. The recommended time for soaking is between 6-8 hours.

• Use a toothpaste and toothbrush specially designed for dentures. Regular toothpaste and brushes are abrasive enough to scratch the surface of dentures.

If denture stains start to build up, you can take your dentures in for an ultrasonic cleaning, which may remove some of the stains.

Dentures don’t have to be a bad thing.  With the right fit and proper care, they can look and feel wonderful. Contact our dental office today to learn more or to schedule your consultation with our expert dentist.

 

See What Patients Are Saying!

See what our patients have to say about their experience at All Smiles Family Dentistry!

 

 

Visit http://allsmilesdds.net/testimonials/ to read even more reviews!

Popular Products Used to Naturally Whiten Teeth

When it comes to teeth whitening, you may have heard of many different methods – from oil pulling to charcoal – there are so many different choices that you may see online or in magazines. It’s tempting to think ingredients in our own kitchens could hold the key to a brighter smile. Be mindful that some natural, at-home remedies are safe and can whiten your teeth, while others won’t and might harm your teeth or gums.

 

Let’s go ahead and look at some of the natural teeth whiteners that are commonly used.

 

Activated Charcoal

This may seem like one of those practical jokes of the internet, except it actually works. Activated charcoal is created when wood, peat, bamboo, or coconuts are burned at extremely high temperatures with a gas. This process creates a porous surface on activated charcoal particles and allows activated charcoal to bind to the teeth. One thing you should be aware of is that the dark black activated charcoal can actually tattoo gums an unsightly dark color.

 

Baking Soda

Whitening your teeth using baking soda has been around for quite a long time and a solution your grandmother probably told you about. You can add baking soda to your toothpaste, or mix with some with hydrogen peroxide to help eliminate stains. Be aware that baking soda is so hard on the teeth because of its abrasive nature and overuse could damage tooth enamel.

 

Apple Cider Vinegar

Nowadays, apple cider vinegar seems to work as a remedy for everything! When it comes to teeth whitening, apple cider vinegar is no quick fix. It must be applied daily, and you will not see any results for at least a month. Because apple cider vinegar is so acidic, make sure to rinse your mouth, brush with your regular toothpaste, and rinse your mouth again. If you do not re-brush your teeth, you are risking damaging your tooth enamel from the acid in the vinegar.

 

Coconut Oil

To give your teeth to give them a brighter look, swish around a teaspoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 5-10 minutes. The oil removes mild plaque build-up while causing an anti-inflammatory effect to the gums causing them to become pinker. This, in turn, makes your teeth look whiter.

 

There are actually plenty of natural ingredients that you can use to whiten your teeth and these natural remedies may give you some success, but if you’re an avid smoker or coffee drinker, you may need a professional.

 

Metal vs. Tooth Colored Fillings

At some point, almost everyone has had a cavity.  When a tooth develops a cavity, the decayed areas of the tooth must be removed by performing a root canal. The empty space that is left is then filled in with strong and durable amalgam or composite materials to provide the tooth with the support it needs to function normally.

In the past, patients’ fillings were primarily made of a silver amalgam material. Todays patients also have the option of choosing composite, tooth-colored filling materials that seamlessly blend in with surrounding teeth.

A good filling will last anywhere from 5 to 50 years. If you’re going to have a filling in your mouth for that long, it’s fair enough to want to know what’s the difference in these two types of fillings and which one is right for you.

Silver Amalgam Fillings

Silver fillings are still offered by most dentists. If you have a metal filling in your mouth, chances are it’s a silver amalgam filling. Some patients even prefer silver fillings to composite fillings for several reasons:

• Silver fillings are sturdy and they last a long time in most patients.
• The placement of amalgam fillings takes less time.
• They do not require use of advanced dental tools or techniques, lowering the cost of treatment.

There are some drawbacks associated with silver amalgam fillings, including:

• More of the tooth structure has to be removed to ensure a long-lasting filling.
• It is more noticeable.
• The material in amalgam fillings expand and contract differently than the natural tooth surrounding it. This can result in cracks around the filling that can eventually lead to decay forming in the cracks, tooth sensitivity, or tooth breakage.

Tooth-Colored Composite Fillings

These days, more and more patients are getting tooth-colored fillings due to their many benefits, including:

• They don’t require your dentist to remove as much of the natural tooth.
• The tooth-colored material can be matched to blend in with surrounding teeth and look more natural.
• They can be repaired without removing the entire filling.
• Patients report less post-treatment discomfort and sensitivity.

Although many patients prefer composite fillings, there are some disadvantages that they should be aware of:

• They are more expensive than silver fillings
• It takes longer to place a composite filling than it does for a metal filling.
• Oftentimes, composite fillings are not covered by dental insurance.

Ultimately, the best dental filling is no dental filling. Prevention is the best medicine. However, if you need a cavity filled, your dentist can talk to you about your options, answer your questions, and help you decide which is right for you.

If you think you may have a cavity, the best thing you can do is see your dentist early before the decay gets worse. The earlier you catch cavities, the more options you have!