Gingivitis causes redness of the gingiva, or the gum line that meets the base of your teeth. It typically causes inflammation, making gums appear puffy. Gingivitis also causes bleeding gums more often during brushing or flossing, with bad breath as a common symptom as well.
Confidence is everything, and our cosmetic dentistry staff near McDonald Tennessee has the skills to get you feeling confident about your smile! We take special care to ensure your teeth are aligned properly and have multiple opportunities to help you achieve cleaner-looking bites all around. Some examples of options we provide include:
Teeth Whitening Near McDonald Tennessee
The appearance of your teeth is dependent on the color and reflectiveness from the surrounding tissue, as well as any dark stains gathered over time. Thinner enamel allows more dentin to show through, which can lead to darker-looking not-so-pearly whites! The tooth whitening we provide near McDonald Tennessee is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that decreases stains and discoloration on teeth. Many people opt for this service to ensure their smiles are always picture-perfect!
Tooth Reshaping Near McDonald Tennessee
Tooth reshaping, also called contouring, can fix minor cosmetic dental problems like slightly misshapen teeth. Our office near McDonald Tennessee treats this by gently removing tooth enamel with a laser or drill. You'll be able to smile proudly, knowing you received quality work from experts with the experience necessary to bring out your best features!
Dental Implants Near McDonald Tennessee
To accommodate tooth loss, dental implants can replace a tooth's root with an artificial root. Metal posts or frames are surgically positioned under the gums into the jawbone. The placement of these dental implants allows for reliable replacements of missing teeth. In most cases, the results aren't just an improved smile, but a more youthful appearance as well.
Dental Veneers Near McDonald Tennessee
Dental veneers are a quick and easy way to fix many different types of dental problems. They come in the form of thin pieces of porcelain that can be bonded onto your teeth, providing them with a strength similar to enamel. Dental veneers can be very beneficial whenever there are gaps between teeth or when multiple teeth are missing altogether.
Visit Tedford Family Dentistry Near McDonald Tennesee
You deserve to have a smile that lights up the world, and it’s possible by improving your dental health! No matter what type of stain or discoloration you are struggling with, we will combat them together through proven procedures like bleaching and laser treatments. Make an appointment today for your cosmetic consultation near McDonald Tennessee!
Tedford Family Dentistry is the dentist of East Brainerd that the community has come to know and trust with their family's dental care. Regardless of the age of the family member, we can assist in keeping their teeth in tip-top shape!
Pediatric dental care is an essential part of a child's overall health and development. Primary teeth begin to erupt between six and twelve months of age and continue to erupt until around age three. This is a crucial time for children to receive proper dental care, learn healthy oral hygiene habits, and have any potential problems with their teeth or jaw development detected and treated early.
Early dental visits also allow parents to learn how to best care for their child's teeth, and how to avoid or address common issues such as cavities, tooth decay, and the effects of pacifier use, thumb-sucking, or baby bottling on teeth and jaw development. Ensuring that children receive the proper dental care during this crucial time can help them develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime.
Preventive dentistry is all about maintaining good oral hygiene and educating people of all ages on how to keep their teeth and gums healthy. This includes daily brushing and flossing, teeth cleanings, and examinations. Preventive care can also help detect problems early when they are most easily treated. By taking proactive steps to care for your teeth and gums, you can help prevent serious dental problems down the road.
One of the most important things you can do as you age is to pay attention to your oral health. After years of use, your teeth and gums can become weaker, making them more susceptible to decay and disease. Senior dental care is essential to maintaining a healthy smile, and Dr. Tedford is committed to providing his patients with the latest technology and gentle care. Whether you need a routine cleaning or more advanced treatment, he will work with you to create a plan that meets your individual needs.
Tedford Family Dentistry is the dentist of East Brainerd for good reason, we are your one-stop shop for any dental needs. Dr. Tedford and our skilled staff are dedicated to providing patients with quality results and gentle dental care at an affordable price. We offer a variety of services such as teeth cleanings, fillings, crowns, and more. We also have a wide selection of dental products to choose from, so you can find the perfect fit for your smile.
The thin shells are created from porcelain or resin and can be customized for a desirable color and shape.
Over time, it is natural and common for gums to recede.
No, bridges are non-removable, they are permanently cemented in place.
Our teeth whitening procedures are used to brighten the appearance of a patient’s smile by as many as 5 to 10 shades in one session.
Even if your jawbone has receded, bone implants might be an option that allows you to be a candidate for implants.
Our technology at Tedford Family Dentistry anchors the denture plate so securely that it won’t wander.
Basic preventative care and regular checkups will help you fix dental pains before surgery becomes necessary.
“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” –Oprah Winfrey
The last remaining months of the year are filled with family, friends, and food– yes, with the holidays comes a full spread of delicious eats and treats that you’ve likely been anticipating all year long. Though you’re surely excited to indulge in all the foods, drinks, and desserts you love while you celebrate the holidays, it’s important to prioritize your oral health during this time as well. So here are five dental tips to bear in mind this holiday season to keep your teeth and gums healthy and happy.
Even though the holidays can be a major disruption to our everyday schedules, it’s important to stick to your regular routine as it pertains to oral health. Make sure you continue to brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and that you floss at least once per day too!
Of course, the end of the year is easily the busiest of times, but that isn’t reason enough to blow off your regular dental visits. Keep your teeth healthy and cavity free, and your gums in ship shape by keeping those always-important dental check ups and cleanings.
Drinking water has a slew of health benefits, but is especially important during the holiday season. This busy time of year often has us running ragged, and staying hydrated can help boost our immune systems, keep our skin looking its best, and help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Water washes away food debris and bacteria, and often has fluoride in it to help strengthen teeth while you drink it.
It’s easy during this time of year at holiday parties and family gatherings to eat a little here and there, and graze on the snacks and treats abounding. That said, grazing is not great for your teeth and gums. When you eat, your body produces an acid that aids in the breakdown of food, and that acid is not ideal for tooth health. This is why it’s a good idea for meal times to have distinct beginnings and ends to allow for your teeth to get a break from this process. It’s also a good idea to try to brush or rinse after eating whenever possible.
Another pro tip, especially during the holiday season, is to keep some dental floss in your bag or pocket. Not only is it a great idea to pop into the bathroom for a quick floss after meals, but you’ll also be totally prepared if you have an unfortunate spinach dip situation, or something else stuck in your teeth when you’re trying to socialize at the company Christmas party.
These are small and simple ways you can prioritize your oral health during this usually-hectic time of year. Of course, if you have any issues or concerns, contact our team at Tedford Family Dentistry. We’re always here to help! Cheers to the most wonderful time of the year, and to taking the best possible care of our holiday smiles no matter what the calendar brings!
We all know that dental health habits are important at any age, but as we grow older, we may face more oral health concerns than we did in our earlier years. This is why it’s important to establish and maintain great dental hygiene routines and to foster a relationship with a great dentist to help meet dental challenges as they come.
What happens to our teeth as we get older? The fact of the matter is, as our bodies age, we sometimes find ourselves dealing with ailments that were not a problem in our youth. This can apply to our teeth and gums as well. Most of these dental problems that can arise in seniors are easy to identify, resolve, and even prevent when you know what signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for. Here are a few things to be aware of when it comes to senior oral health.
Attrition simply means wear and tear, something your teeth see a lot of over the years as they help you chew your food, speak, and function normally. Years of use, eating, grinding, and general aging can take their toll on your teeth. Also as your healthy tooth enamel wears down over time, they leave your teeth more susceptible to decay and cavities.
Aging in and of itself does not necessarily make the symptoms of dry mouth more likely; however, certain factors that come along with it can, such as chronic conditions, medications you may take, and so on. If you are experiencing dry mouth, it can be indicative of issues you’ll need to address with your dentist.
Gum disease happens to be one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Also referred to as periodontal disease, this dental issue is caused by plaque forming on the teeth, and being left untreated. Gum disease symptoms include red, puffy, or bleeding gums, consistently bad breath, pain, and tooth sensitivity, all of which can be prevented by diligent oral care. Gum disease is also reversible when detected and treated early.
Some also find that tooth sensitivity is more of an issue as they age. Gums naturally recede over time, and that can leave areas of tooth exposed that are not well-protected by enamel. Sometimes sensitivity can be an indication of a bigger problem such as a cavity or a cracked or fractured tooth.
Often as a result of gum disease, the roots of your teeth can become exposed as gums recede over time. This can cause tooth decay to develop at an increased rate, which can then lead to a whole host of other dental problems that will require the attention of your dentist.
Of course, maintaining oral health for seniors looks a lot like it does for folks at any age, and keeping your teeth and gums in prime condition just takes a little bit of effort. Combat dental problems that can become more likely with age through the following practices:
Our team at Tedford Family Dentistry is here to support families in their oral health regardless of age. We offer preventative dental care for children, adults, and senior adults, and we want to help you achieve your greatest possible oral health at every age! Contact our team to schedule an exam or cleaning, or to address any dental issues you may be experiencing.
When it comes to oral health, it’s about so much more than just teeth. Your gums play a critical role in maintaining a healthy mouth, and even in ensuring your teeth remain healthy and strong. Even if your teeth are cavity free and aesthetically beautiful, that doesn’t mean you are immune to gum disease. Gum disease can oftentimes be completely painless, and therefore difficult to detect.
Gum disease affects 47.2% of adults ages 30 and up, according to the CDC. It begins with plaque that builds up under and along the gum line, and can cause infections that hurt the gum and bone, leading to tooth decay and other issues. The presence of plaque can also cause gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis can cause your gums to become red, tender, swollen, and inflamed, and can cause bleeding as well. As unpleasant as that sounds, the upside is that this damage is completely reversible.
Periodontitis, however, is a more advanced stage of gum disease, and can impact the bones that hold your teeth in place within the mouth. If left untreated, this can be the ruin of gums, bones, and tissues inside the mouth. The final and most serious stage of gum disease is advanced periodontitis, and in this phase, the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are destroyed. This can result in issues with your bite as well as tooth loss.
Per the American Dental Association (the ADA), signs that you may have gum disease include:
Consistently bad breath A consistently bad taste in your mouth Separating or loose permanent teeth Gums that easily bleed Gums that are red, swollen, or tender Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
A positive thing to note here is that gum disease is completely preventable, and here are a few tips for healthy gums that will help you evade these problems when it comes you your own oral health.
1– FLOSS ‘EM
Just do it, ok? Floss your teeth at least once per day to help remove plaque and food particles that are beyond the reach of your toothbrush. It doesn’t really matter that much when you do it, just do it!
2– BRUSH TWICE A DAY
Brush at least twice a day, or even better yet, after every meal. Brushing your teeth removes food bits and plaque that can build up on your teeth and gums. You’ll also want to brush your tongue, which can be a hotspot for all sorts of problem-causing bacteria (and stinky breath). Your toothbrush should ideally have soft bristles and fit comfortably in your mouth.
3– FLUORIDE OR DIE
Let your fluoride toothpaste be your oral health ride or die. Your toothpaste aisle might have you a little overwhelmed with options, but no matter what you do, be sure to choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride and has the ADA seal of acceptance. Type, flavor, brand is all completely your call.
4– SWISH N’ SPIT
The next tip for healthy gums is to use an over the counter therapeutic mouthwash. This can help reduce plaque, prevent gingivitis, and reduce the speed at which tartar develops in the mouth. More than that, the actual act of swishing and rinsing helps to loosen and remove food particles and debris that can take up residence in the mouth. Just remember mouthwash is not a suitable alternative to regular brushing and flossing, but an additional step that can do a lot of good!
5– DON’T SMOKE
Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your gums. Smoking is strongly associated with the development of gum disease, and even makes it harder to fight off gum infections by weakening your immune system, according to the CDC. Smoking also makes it harder for your gums to heal after facing damage.
6– MAKE YOUR DENTIST YOUR BFF
The final tip for healthy gums is to prioritize dental cleanings and exams. Your dentist can help diagnose any issues that arise early, and help ensure you get the treatments necessary for maintaining your overall oral health. Professional dental cleanings are also necessary for removing tartar build up on the teeth and along the gumline, which can cause problems if left untreated.
If it’s time for a dental check up, contact our team at Tedford Family Dentistry today, and we’ll get you taken care of. In the meantime, make your oral health a priority with these tips for healthy gums. We assure you, you won’t regret the extra effort!
