Smiles are powerful. They connect us, brighten our day, and even improve our health. But did you know that smiling has real scientific benefits? It’s true—research shows that a simple smile can have a profound impact on your physical and emotional well-being. Let’s explore the many benefits of smiling and how keeping your teeth in great shape can help you unlock them.
Smiling is more than just an expression—it’s a mood booster, thanks to your brain’s chemistry. Every time you smile, your brain releases feel-good chemicals like dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. These chemicals reduce stress, elevate your mood, and even help manage pain.
One of the most surprising benefits of smiling is that your brain doesn’t know the difference between a real smile and a fake one. Even forcing a smile can trick your brain into feeling happier. Plus, smiles are contagious, creating a ripple effect of positivity in your interactions with others.
Smiling doesn’t just feel good—it’s good for you! Here are some of the key health benefits of smiling:
When you smile with confidence, you enjoy these benefits and more. And the foundation of that confidence? A healthy, radiant smile.
Smiling confidently starts with oral health. When you feel good about your teeth, it’s easier to smile freely and take full advantage of the benefits of smiling. That’s where Tedford Family Dentistry comes in.
Our team is dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy smile through regular cleanings, preventative care, and cosmetic treatments. Whether you’re looking to brighten your teeth with whitening services or need a thorough checkup to address underlying concerns, we’re here to ensure your smile is always at its best.
Your smile is one of your most powerful tools for improving your health and happiness. From reducing stress to boosting confidence, the benefits of smiling are too good to ignore. And with Tedford Family Dentistry by your side, maintaining a smile you’re proud of is easier than ever.
If you’re ready to unlock the full potential of your smile, schedule an appointment today. Whether you need routine care or want to explore cosmetic options, we’re here to help you smile brighter. Because a healthy smile isn’t just about your teeth—it’s about your whole well-being.
Picking the right toothbrush and toothpaste can feel like a small decision, but it has a big impact on your dental health. The options seem endless—soft bristles or medium, manual or electric, whitening or tartar control—and that’s before you get into all the flavors and specialty formulas! That’s why we’re here to break it down into plain terms and help you pick the best tools for your oral health. After all, the right toothbrush and toothpaste are your first line of defense against cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.
Your toothbrush and toothpaste work together to remove plaque, strengthen enamel, and keep your gums healthy. Using the wrong type—or worse, skipping dental care altogether—can lead to avoidable issues like tooth sensitivity, enamel erosion, or gum inflammation. Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision.
Toothpaste isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different formulas address different needs, so picking the right one can make your oral care routine even more effective.
Even the best toothbrush and toothpaste won’t work as well if you don’t replace them regularly. Here’s a quick checklist:
At Tedford Family Dentistry, we prioritize personalized care for every patient. If you’re unsure which toothbrush and toothpaste are best for you, let us help! Book your next appointment and get expert advice from our friendly team. Together, we’ll keep your smile healthy for years to come.
Have you ever cringed while enjoying your favorite hot coffee or biting into a cold ice cream cone? You’re not alone! Tooth sensitivity is a common issue that can make everyday treats feel like a painful challenge. But what exactly are the causes of tooth sensitivity, and how can you find relief? Let’s dive into the root of the problem and explore ways to protect your smile. Understanding the causes of tooth sensitivity can help you prevent and treat this uncomfortable condition. Here are some of the most common culprits:
Tooth sensitivity doesn’t have to hold you back from enjoying your favorite foods and drinks. By understanding the causes of tooth sensitivity and following these treatment tips, you can protect your smile and find relief. If you're dealing with persistent tooth sensitivity, Tedford Family Dentistry is here to help.
If you need to set up an appointment to find the underlying causes of tooth sensitivity, give us a call. Our team is dedicated to providing the care and solutions you need to feel comfortable and confident in your smile.
Wondering what to expect during your dental check-ups? Here's a quick overview:
1. Comprehensive Examination:
Your dentist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth. This includes checking for signs of cavities, gum disease, and other potential issues. They may also take X-rays to get a closer look at what's happening below the surface.
2. Professional Cleaning:
Even if you’re diligent about brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can still build up in hard-to-reach areas. During your check-up, a dental hygienist will clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar to keep your smile bright and healthy.
3. Oral Cancer Screening:
Early detection is key when it comes to oral cancer. During your check-up, your dentist will examine your mouth for any signs of abnormal tissue or growths to catch any issues before they become serious.
4. Personalized Advice:
Your dentist will guide you on improving your at-home oral care routine. Whether it’s advice on brushing techniques, flossing tips, or recommendations for dental products, they’ll help you take the best care of your teeth between visits.
Regular dental check-ups are more than just a routine—they're a vital part of maintaining your overall health. By visiting your dentist regularly, you can:
Imagine looking in the mirror and feeling self-conscious about your smile. Maybe it’s the chipped tooth from a long-ago accident or the persistent stains from years of enjoying your morning cup of joe. These dental imperfections are common with age, but they can affect your self-esteem, preventing you from feeling like your most confident self. Fortunately, there’s a solution: cosmetic dentistry options can be a game-changer. If you feel low self-esteem because of your teeth or they cause issues in your life, cosmetic dentistry can offer the solution you need. At Tedford Family Dentistry, we focus on the client’s desires and what's best for their health to provide the best possible outcomes. We’ve created this guide to help you explore all the cosmetic dentistry options available and understand which ones might benefit you the most.
Every parent wants to ensure their child grows up healthy and happy, and these child teeth care tips are essential for maintaining their overall well-being. While we often focus on nutrition and physical activity, pediatric dental health is just as important! Establishing good dental habits early can prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.
At Tedford Family Dentistry, we care about your family's health and have compiled these child teeth care tips to help you succeed in caring for your child's dental needs. Here’s what you need to know to keep your child’s smile bright and healthy:
By following these child teeth care tips, you can help your child develop a lifetime of good dental habits and maintain a healthy smile. At Tedford Family Dentistry, we’re here to support you and your family with expert care and advice. We believe that a healthy smile is a happy smile, and we’re dedicated to making dental care a positive and enjoyable experience for your little ones. Schedule your next appointment with us, and let’s work together to keep those smiles bright and cheerful!
Dental care for children all comes down to routine. Having a routine can help you incorporate healthy habits for your kids, especially when it comes to dental hygiene. Summer time can be a little lax when it comes to kids though, right? Without school and normal routines, some of our structure tends to go out the window. But with school starting up again and some sense of normalcy returning to the days, you can help engrain those healthy dental habits for your kids. Chattanooga Preventative dentistry and intentional home care can culminate in a much healthier mouth.
Encourage your child to practice regular brushing and flossing As your child becomes more conscious of his or her appearance, encourage proper dental care to keep teeth healthy and looking their best Teach them about how good dental hygiene results in fresh breath If your child grinds his or her teeth at night, or plays sports, ensure they have the proper mouth guards to protect their teeth If your child wears braces, make sure he or she flosses and power brushes thoroughly to avoid spots when the braces are removed Remember to stay on top of regular cleanings and exams to avoid costly and painful dental issues
When it comes to preventative dentistry, we’ve got a few more tips for helping teach your children how to both care for their smiles at home and work closely with your family dentist.
If you are looking for exceptional dental care and preventative dentistry, come see our excellent staff at Tedford Family Dentistry in Ooltewah. We will take great care of your family!
Just as candy, sweets and sports drinks can increase your risk for tooth decay, so too can liquid medications. There are a variety of ingredients commonly found in cough drops and syrup medications that can leave you more susceptible to tooth decay and cavities, especially when the medicine is taken consistently over long periods of time. You may be asking yourself this question if you have a dentist appointment but are feeling a bit under the weather. As many dental appointments can be difficult to reschedule, you might find yourself uncertain of what to do. To cancel or not to cancel? Here’s a guide on whether you should cancel your appointment if you’re sick.
How Sick Am I?The first thing you must decide is, “How sick am I?” The type of ailment, depending on your symptoms, can greatly affect your appointment. You must evaluate the severity of your sickness, and the level of pain and discomfort. Patients who are unable to sit still through an appointment should consider rescheduling.
Am I Contagious?Contagious? If you don’t want to infect others, always reschedule.
However, you might not always know if you are contagious. If you are coughing or sneezing, you may have a common cold, a virus, or maybe even the flu. In this case, you should carefully listen to your symptoms.
Even if you are no longer sick, but have been feeling under the weather over the past several days, you might still be carrying the virus. Studies report that carriers can remain contagious to others for up to one week.
What Should I Do If I Keep My Dentist Appointment If I’m Sick?In the event that you are experiencing congestion, let our Tedford Family Dentistry staff know. Patients who often have trouble breathing through their nose may also struggle through dental procedures, as their mouth is occupied at times during treatments or exams. If you choose to keep your dental appointment, always communicate to your hygienist, dental assistant, or Dr. Tedford, if or when you experience any discomfort during your visit.
Cancelling My Dentist AppointmentWhether you have a dental emergency or are getting a routine checkup, as a general rule of thumb, we recommend that patients only cancel an appointment in the event of an emergency (sickness included).
While the majority of dental offices understand the need to cancel at times, we do urge you to keep your appointment to avoid any unnecessary cancellation fees. Plus, rescheduling appointments may take time, depending on availability.
If you are sick or contagious, contact our office today and ask us about our policy for these situations. It’s likely we’ll reschedule you for a different date. Get well soon!
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.
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!
Dental accidents can occur anytime, anywhere, and parents need to be prepared for these unforeseen situations so they can react quickly and appropriately. Knowing what to do when faced with a children’s dental emergency can mean the difference between your child losing a tooth forever or saving that permanent tooth by taking the right actions immediately. No matter what the dental emergency is, it’s imperative that you take your child to the dentist or the closest emergency room as soon as possible.
If your child cracks a tooth, rinse the mouth out with warm water to cleanse the area, and put a cold compress on the face to help reduce pain and swelling. See the dentist as soon as possible for the next steps.
First of all, make sure your child doesn’t have a more serious injury in addition to the knocked-out tooth—it’s important to assess the entire situation. For a knocked-out permanent tooth, it’s important to keep it moist at all times. Ideally, place the tooth in a container of milk, or use a tooth preservation product marked by the ADA’s Seal of Acceptance. Then, get to the dentist’s office as soon as possible. A primary tooth, or baby tooth, does not need to be placed in milk, but should still be brought to the dentist if possible.
If your child accidentally bites his tongue or lip, clean the area gently with water, then apply a cold compress. Contact your dentist or primary care doctor to determine how severe the bite is. If the bite is severe, go to the emergency room as soon as possible.
For toothaches in children, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area. Gently floss the area to remove any debris that could be causing the pain. If the pain persists, visit your pediatric dentist ASAP.
If your child has something caught between his or her teeth, first try to remove it gently with dental floss. Don’t ever use metal, plastic, or any other sharp tool to attempt to remove a stuck object between teeth, as this can cause more damage. If you are unable to remove the object, contact your dentist immediately.
First, rinse the mouth with warm water, then use a cold compress on the area to reduce swelling. Try your best to find the broken-off piece of tooth, and then contact your dentist immediately.
If you believe your child’s jaw may be broken or fractured, it’s important to exercise caution. VERY gently apply a cold compress to help control swelling and pain, and get to your dentist or ER immediately. Try your best to stabilize the jaw to keep it from moving.
Our team at Tedford Family Dentistry is equipped to handle your children’s dental emergencies. Contact us if you need assistance, and if it’s after hours, be sure to contact our emergency line or go to the nearest emergency room for immediate care.
