Ooltewah TN Dentist Blog
Friday, 03 March 2023 15:56

Low Cost Dental Care

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Chattanooga Family Dentists Think Sealants Are Key to Low Cost Dental Care

Tedford Family Dentistry believes sealants are a great step toward achieving low cost dental care.

The staff at Tedford Family Dentistry in Ooltewah, TN always stresses the importance of taking care of your teeth. Regular brushing and flossing, avoiding sugary food and drinks, and consistent cleanings and dental exams are all crucial in maintaining a healthy mouth. When we slack on these things, the effects can often be painful and extremely costly to rectify. Filling cavities, getting root canals and needing crowns are things we all want to avoid. But in addition to proper cleaning, dental sealants are a great way to help keep tooth decay at bay.

Where are the sealants applied?

Molars can be rough and craggy, with lots of tight nooks and crannies for food particles and bacteria to hide. This is where sealants come in! You can actually safeguard your child’s molars with these thin, protective coatings that can actually keep cavities from forming, as well as keep minor tooth decay from progressing into full-blown cavities that require fillings.

How effective are sealants in protecting teeth?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, dental sealants prevent 80% of cavities in back teeth or molars, where 9 out of 10 cavities occur. The CDC also reports school-aged children without sealants have almost three times more cavities than children who do have sealants.

How do they work?

Sealants are basically like armor for your teeth. After application, the sealants keep bits of food, germs, and bacteria (the recipe for cavity-making) from settling on the surfaces of the teeth, just like a shield would protect you in battle.

How are sealants applied?

Your dentist can quickly and easily apply sealants to adult and baby teeth in both adults and children. It’s a completely painless and non-invasive process. Your dentist will first clean and dry the surface of the tooth then place on it an acidic gel. The gel acts as a bonding agent for the sealant by creating a rougher surface for it to grab onto. After applying this gel and allowing it to set, your dentist will simply rinse it off, apply the sealant material, then harden or set it with a special instrument called a dental curing light (also used for fillings, etc).

Happy tooth is happy because preventative care like dental sealants make all the difference in pediatric dentistry.

Are they cost-effective?

Many dental insurance plans cover the cost of sealants. If you’re not sure about your coverage, call your provider to check in about it. Covered or not, sealants should be part of every parent’s low cost dental care regimen, as they can prevent cavities and other dental problems that are extremely costly to address. As purveyors of great dental care from pediatric dentistry all the way through adulthood, the staff Tedford Family Dental recommends all children have sealants applied to their teeth. Preventative is always the best approach when it comes to a healthy mouth.

It’s comforting to know that our Ooltewah TN family dentistry offers teeth whitening as part of our cosmetic dentistry services, but there are things that you can do to minimize the impact of stains and discoloration before this is needed to restore your pearly white smile. This month’s blog is dedicated to answering frequently asked questions about teeth whitening…

Why do teeth stain?

ooltewah tn teeth whitening

Teeth become yellow or gray for a variety of reasons that may be behavioral or simply the effects of erosion of the enamel over time allowing more of the color of the dentin to show through.

How can I maintain the whiteness of my teeth?

There are a few different things you can do to keep your natural smile looking it’s best. You’ve no doubt heard the expression “You are what you eat…”

Turns out, this is true, at least when it comes to the coloration of your teeth.

Because your teeth are porous, they naturally absorb the liquids that you drink. Avoid consumption of or exposure to products that are known to stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, sodas, grape or cranberry juice, popsicles, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, tomato sauce, fruits and berries (blueberries, blackberries, cherries, pomegranates, etc.), and beets.

Making some adjustments can minimize the impact of these foods and beverages, including swishing your mouth with water after eating or drinking something (or, if practical, brushing and rinsing immediately after consuming), adding milk to coffee to lighten it’s color, choosing green tea over black tea, choosing light-colored sodas, drinking apple juice instead of grape or cranberry juice, avoiding popsicles with dark coloring, switching to light-colored or creamy sauces over deeply colored sauces, adding a lighter vinegar to salads, and adding greens like lettuce and broccoli that create a film on your teeth to prevent staining from occurring. You can also use a straw so the liquid from beverages that stain bypasses your front teeth.

Foods like beets are packed with good nutrients, but they stain everything they touch. You don’t need to skip foods high in antioxidants and vitamins that your body needs just to avoid staining teeth. Research suggests that gum disease accelerates and is potentially more severe in people with poor nutrition.

You DO want to consider eliminating sodas because of the artificial sugar and acid, which are terrible for the enamel on your teeth. Foods high in carbohydrates, sugars, and starches greatly contribute to the production of plaque acids that attack the tooth enamel. “Energy drinks” can erode enamel, so drinking water during workouts is a better alternative.

The color of a drink does not always dictate the full extent to which it can stain teeth. The dark, rich color of red wine makes it an obvious culprit, but white wine actually contains more damaging acid

What else can I do to keep my teeth white?

We recommend brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing at least once daily. Use a whitening toothpaste once a week only to remove surface stains, using your regular toothpaste the rest of the time. 

Are All Stained Teeth the Same?

Whitening may be more effective on yellowish teeth than brownish-colored teeth. Grayish-hue or purple-stained teeth present the biggest challenge. Blue-gray staining can require months of treatments. In some cases, veneers, bonding, or crowns may present a better choice than bleaching. It’s also important to note that teeth whitening is not permanent as patients may expose their brightened teeth to the same foods and beverages that stained their teeth in the first place. A touch-up treatment in 6 months or after a year or two may be needed.

Can a Cosmetic Dental Procedure Whiten my Teeth?

Certainly! Tedford Family Dentistry helps our patients restore their gorgeous smiles with procedures such as teeth whitening, dental implants, dental veneers, cosmetic fillings, and contouring the shape of teeth.

Our professionally applied products meet ADA guidelines for safety and effectiveness. The first step to ensuring safe and effective us is a professional consultation. Call us at (423) 238-8887 to arrange a cosmetic dental appointment at our office at 9380 Bradmore Lane, Suite 108, Ooltewah TN 37363.


Photo: © Catalin205 / 123RF Stock Photo

Blog © 2019 Tedford Family Dentistry: Tedford Keith DDS | Ooltewah TN 37363

Tuesday, 07 February 2023 14:15

Can You Get Rid of Gingivitis

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Almost half of the adults in the US have some type of gum disease. Fortunately, gingivitis, which is the initial stage of gum disease, can be reversed by having proper oral hygiene. Schedule regular dental check-ups to eliminate plaque and tartar, which are the leading causes of gum disease. There is no overnight solution for healthy gums, but forming good habits will help to maintain oral health in the long run.

What Does Gingivitis Look Like?

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.

Why Does Gingivitis Occur?

To address gingivitis, it is important to recognize the root cause. Plaque, an invisible layer of bacteria, tends to thrive in the mouth as it finds nourishment in the sugar that remains on your teeth and gums. This creates an acidic environment that damages both the enamel and the gums. It is important to clean away plaque and tartar quickly to reverse gingivitis before it progresses to a more severe form of gum disease. If the condition is not treated in time, only some of the symptoms can be managed.

How To Prevent Gingivitis

Fortunately, there are several measures you can take to prevent gingivitis. Gently brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush for a minimum of two minutes each time. This will clean all the surfaces of your teeth. Brushing too hard can damage your enamel, so be sure to be gentle. For best results, brush your teeth twice a day and make sure to brush before you go to sleep to prevent plaque buildup. Dental plaque tends to hide in hard-to-reach spaces between teeth and can cause cavities and gum irritation if not removed. To avoid this, it is also important to floss each tooth daily to remove plaque and reduce the amount of harmful bacteria in the mouth.

Does Mouthwash Help Gingivitis?

If you're looking to reduce your risk of gingivitis, it's essential to avoid foods and drinks that are high in sugar. This means steering clear of soda, sports drinks, energy drinks, popsicles, dried fruits, and caramel. When you consume sugary items, your teeth may become coated in plaque and tartar, giving them a fuzzy feeling. For this reason, we recommend limiting your sugar intake. Having clean teeth and good oral hygiene are essential to prevent cavities and gingivitis. Use a mouth rinse that contains fluoride and is labeled as antibacterial, antiseptic, or antigingivitis. This will help protect your teeth and make them more resistant to acid attacks caused by plaque. Establishing good oral care at an early age is important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums for life.

Make Sure You Don't Miss Your Dental Appointment

We can provide a thorough teeth cleaning and examination at our dental office to help prevent gingivitis. We use a scaler tool to eliminate plaque and tartar during teeth cleanings. Additionally, X-rays may be taken to view any internal issues. It is advised to have this type of appointment every six months to maintain optimal oral health. Our staff is here to help you obtain the best possible oral health and wellness. When caught early, gum disease can be reversed. When your gums become swollen, sore, or bleeding, you should call our office immediately. To request an appointment with our Ooltewah dentist office, call us at (423) 238-8887 or send us a message here.
Friday, 03 February 2023 15:56

The Chew on Gum

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13746892 lAccording to a 2015 study, 100 million bacteria can be removed from the mouth after 10 minutes of chewing sugar free gum. There are more benefits to chewing gum than just minty fresh breath. It can help various other aspects while you chew:

Oral Health
Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can help to clean teeth by rinsing off and neutralizing the acids left behind by plaque and bacteria. In addition to preserving tooth enamel, chewing sugar free gum stimulates saliva flow up to ten times the normal rate.

Xylitol, the artificial sweetener found in sugar free gums, prevents the growth of oral bacteria and cavities. The ingredient prevents bacteria from adhering to the tooth, stopping cavities from forming.

Cognitive Function
Not only does chewing gum help to strengthen teeth, but it has also been linked to improving cognitive function. The action increases blood flow to the brain and elevates the body’s glucose level which aids in fueling the mind.

Stress Relief
Chewing sugar free gum can also work to reduce stress. The rhythmic motion can relax the body, reducing tension and leaving you satisfied. It can also help to reduce nervous energy.

Aids Digestion
Digestive health can also be improved by chewing gum. It increases saliva flow which increases swallowing and prevents acid reflux.

Though chewing gum can be beneficial to your oral hygiene, it should not replace brushing or flossing.

Senior Chattanooga Dental Care

Our seniors are precious and need special consideration to remain healthy. Dr. Tedford works to provide affordable senior dental services like dentures, implants, bridges, and more to the Ooltewah, Chattanooga, Collegedale, and Cleveland, TN communities. In fact, we have a dedicated page on this website to specifically address senior citizen dental care needs.

Readers can learn more about minimizing root decay that can lead to age-related gum loss and tooth loss. Lost Bone mass can also harm the jaw and increase the need for dental implants. Wear and tear related to time also impacts how well dentures fit. Decades of exposure to coffee, wine, and sodas show erosion of the dental enamel. Dr. Tedford assists seniors with routine dental care and cleanings, implants, dentures, veneers, bridges, and teeth whitening.

It’s important that our retirement years be spent comfortably, which includes retaining our ability to chew food correctly and without pain to nourish the body. Poor dental health can lead to problematic infections, according to experts at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Brushing teeth twice daily, flossing, and going for regular dentist checkups are recommended as part of a Consumer Reports Health Checklist for Seniors

The Importance of a Senior Chattanooga Dental Care Program

senior dental care chattanoogaIt makes perfect sense that our teeth and gums require extra attention as we get older, the same as other health conditions complicated by age. Some of the unique situations affecting seniors:

  • Tooth Decay from old fillings.
  • Less exposure to tooth-protective fluoride in water systems over their lifetime.
  • Dry Mouth as a side effect of medications to treat chronic health conditions.
  • Reduced saliva production, making plaque more likely to stick to teeth.
  • Receding Gums leave tooth roots exposed, sensitive to temperature extremes, and vulnerable to germs.
  • Tooth and Gum Damage related to diabetes.
  • Oral Cancer Screening after long-term smoking.
  • Loose-fitting Dentures.
  • Complications brushing or flossing due to Arthritis.
  • Seniors generally become more susceptible to disease.

And just because someone is of advanced age, that doesn’t mean we never see patients wishing to correct crooked teeth by getting fitted with braces or have teeth whitened. If someone has been sensitive about his or her smile for most of their life and now have the discretionary income to do it, why not?

Special care is needed when treating dementia patients who suffer from jaw, tooth and gum pain. It’s also a good idea to prepare a list before an appointment to tell Dr. Tedford during visits about all drugs taken by seniors, the dosage and how often these medications are taken. Such information can affect the recommended Senior Dental treatment plan.

Dental Implants Ooltewah

Seniors are the primary consumers of dental products like dentures, bridges, and dental implants. The latter can be a great option following tooth loss, but the patient needs healthy enough gums and bone to hold an implant in place. Bone density loss is a significant concern for women age 65 and older in particular. Discuss this Dr. Tedford during the initial consultation before such a dental procedure happens.

Chattanooga Dental Care for Seniors with Medicare

Access to regular dental care is often difficult for seniors. Medicare doesn’t cover it, and Medicaid coverage is limited. Out-of-pocket expenses can be prohibitive to those on a fixed income. Most seniors must rely on either Medicare Advantage plans or private insurance to get coverage, but there are options.

Programs of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a Medicare and Medicaid program that allows people 55 or older who otherwise need a nursing home level of care to remain in the community, covering dentistry, x-ray services, and other services. There are two PACE organization plans in Tennessee, both through Alexian Brothers Community Services

The Senior Dental Care insurance program is available to most Medicaid recipients at no additional cost.  Veterans may be eligible for dental benefits provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Ask us about payment options such as payment plans and reduced prices based on need.

Affordable Chattanooga Dental Care for Seniors

Dr. Tedford wants to help seniors keep their natural teeth longer and maintain good oral health so they can smile through their golden years. Call us at (423) 238-8887 or make an appointment to visit our office at 9380 Bradmore Lane, Suite 108, Ooltewah TN 37363.


Photo: © Vadim Gozhda / 123RF Stock Photo

Blog © 2018 Tedford Family Dentistry: Tedford Keith DDS Ooltewah TN 37363

Friday, 06 January 2023 15:56

9 Tips for Denture Care

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Ooltewah Affordable Denture CareBelow are some simple, general tips from our Ooltewah dentist to keep your dentures, either complete or partial dentures, in good shape.

When you visit with Dr. Tedford, he will make recommendations on the best denture solutions for you.

1. Take Your Dentures Out Daily.
If possible, take your dentures out while you sleep. If this is not a good option for you, take them out for 6 to 8 hours a day during another time period. This will give your mouth tissues time to recover.

2. Help Retain Your Dentures Shape

Place your dentures in warm water (or a denture cleanser solution), when they are not being worn, to help retain the denture's shape, remain pliable and keeps it from drying out. Dentures should never be placed in hot water, which could cause them to warp.

3. Clean Your Dentures Daily

Like natural teeth, dentures must be cleaned daily to remove food particles, tartar and bacteria, and to help prevent dentures from becoming permanently stained.

Commercial denture cleansers for removable dentures come as tablets, creams, pastes, gels and solutions. The first step in cleaning dentures is to rinse away loose food particles and remove any denture adhesive.

Denture cleanser tablets are dropped into warm water to create an effervescent solution. Dentures are removed from the mouth and placed in the solution. Soaking dentures in the cleaning solution helps kill germs that can cause odor. The amount of time dentures should be soaked—from a few minutes to overnight—depends on the manufacturer’s instructions.

Denture cleansing creams, pastes or gels are brushed on the denture after it is removed from the mouth and then rinsed off, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Denture cleansers should not be used while dentures are still in the mouth.

Dentures can also be cleaned with toothpaste or soap—mild hand soap or dishwashing liquid—warm water and a soft-bristle toothbrush. However, denture wearers should never use bleach or powdered household cleansers, which can be abrasive, for cleaning their appliance as this may damage the denture.

4. Find Out if You Need Denture Adhesives

A film of saliva typically helps hold dentures in place. Denture adhesives may be used if the salivary glands do not produce a sufficient amount of saliva. Denture adhesives are not, however, a remedy for ill-fitting dentures. A denture that fits poorly (i.e., feels loose or causes discomfort) may need to be relined or replaced as it can contribute to the development of mouth sores.

Denture adhesives, also called denture adherents, are creams, powders, wafers or strips that are used to hold dentures firmly in place. The adhesive also helps form a seal that keeps food particles from sticking between the dentures and gums. Adhesive is applied to clean dentures, which are then positioned in the mouth and held in place for a few seconds, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

During denture cleaning, adhesive should be removed with gentle scrubbing to prevent contamination.

5. Look After Your Whole Mouth

You still need to care for your gums, even with complete dentures. When you take out your dentures, give your mouth a good rinse and then massage your gums with a washcloth or a soft toothbrush. If you have partial dentures, you still need to properly brush and floss your regular teeth every day.

6. See Your Dentist
You still need to see your dentist at least once a year. Dr, Tedford will examine your oral tissues for changes and for sores that might become cancerous and he will also provide advice as to oral hygiene and denture care.

7. Watch for Changes in Fit
If your dentures aren’t fitting properly or don’t feel right, please check in with Dr. Tedford, your Ooltewah Dentist. He may be able to adjust your dentures
or recommend a solution. The gums and bones in our mouths change over time, which can lead to an improper denture fit. Poorly fitting dentures can cause problems like sores, pain and burning and may be a sign of periodontal disease.

8. Nourish Your Body
Be sure to be eating a balanced diet. Research suggests that proper nutrition slows the progress of gum disease, so a healthier diet could even mean a healthier mouth.

9. Use ADA Approved Products

A company earns the ADA Seal of Acceptance by producing scientific evidence that demonstrates the safety and efficacy of its product, which the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs carefully evaluates according to objective requirements.

Look for the ADA Seal—your assurance that the product has been objectively evaluated for safety and efficacy by an independent body of scientific experts, the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs.

For more information, please contact our dental office in Ooltewah TN at (423) 238-8887.
Wednesday, 21 December 2022 19:42

Keeping the Smiles of Chattanooga Healthy

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At Tedford Family Dentistry in Ooltewah, TN, we understand the importance of preventive dentistry in keeping the smiles of Chattanooga bright. With our comprehensive services, we provide patients with the knowledge and care necessary to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Our commitment to your oral health includes regular examinations and professional cleanings as well as brushing and flossing guidance. By following our personalized plans, you can reduce your risk of gum disease, cavities, and enamel damage that can occur from a lifetime of wear. To ensure you keep your sparkling smile for years to come, contact us today to explore the world of preventive dentistry!

Are these exams and x-rays truly necessary?

Regular dental checkups are an important part of preventive dentistry and one of the best ways to protect your teeth. During these appointments, a qualified dentist like Dr. Tedford will carefully examine your mouth and use x-rays to assess the overall state of your dental health. The exam provides an opportunity for early detection of various conditions such as cavities and sensitivity, giving your dentist an opportunity to recommend treatments that can help reduce or prevent the development of these issues. Carefully following these preventive measures is essential for patients of all ages in order to maintain proper oral hygiene and ensure good long-term health.

Preventive dentistry is crucial for the smiles of Chattanooga’s children.

Regular examinations and cleanings can go a long way toward preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues. For young children, in particular, receiving such treatments regularly is even more important. Providing early encounters with the dentist has been shown to help them form (and maintain) positive impressions of dental hygiene practices later in life. Moreover, teeth that are well-maintained from a young age tend to be much stronger and healthier for longer.

Following each teeth cleaning appointment, it is also recommended that parents ensure their children continue the good habits by brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, and avoiding sugary snacks that can contribute to tooth decay. With the right attention both inside and outside of the office, preventive dentistry treatment can lead to strong teeth and excellent oral hygiene for years to come.

Let your smile join the other beautiful smiles of Chattanooga!

At our family dentistry office, we prioritize your dental health, offering preventive care services to the Ooltewah, Collegedale, Chattanooga, and Cleveland TN communities. Our skilled team of professionals works with you to assess the state of your oral health, make recommendations and develop a unique plan to help preserve your smile! Together we can detect minor problems before they become more prominent and costlier issues that are more difficult to fix. Take control of your oral well-being today - contact us to schedule your visit with our experienced family dentist!
Wednesday, 09 November 2022 17:18

Cosmetic Dentistry Near McDonald Tennessee

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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

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

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.

Senior Dental Care

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

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.

Monday, 13 December 2021 13:35

5 New Year's Resolutions to Boost Dental Health

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5 New Year's Resolutions to Boost Dental Health.jpg“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” –Oprah Winfrey

With the new year on the horizon, it’s time for us to start planning our resolutions. A new year also means a fresh start for each of us in many ways, and an opportunity to improve ourselves by whatever means we set our minds to. Interestingly enough, there are many new year’s resolution options that can actually help boost your dental health, and here are just a few to consider for the upcoming calendar year!

1– Floss More!

Flossing is one of those things we all KNOW we should be doing at least once per day, but it’s pretty easy to blow it off, or skip it when we’re in a rush or tired and more than ready for bed. That said, resolving to floss your teeth more is a great way to improve overall dental health, eliminating food particles and bacteria from the mouth that can lead to decay and other dental problems.

2– Regular Dental Exams

This potential resolution will be a relatively simple one to honor seeing as you only really need to visit the dentist for dental cleanings and exams twice per year (barring any problems). Making a commitment to see your dentist every six months can be a big step forward in your dental health journey. Cleanings help keep your pearly whites in their best condition, and your checkup and x-rays will help ensure any problems with your teeth or gums are detected and treated early.

3– Get a Night Guard

Another new year’s resolution that can help preserve your dental health is getting and regularly wearing a night guard while you sleep. The only real way to guard against the grind and preserve the integrity of your teeth is to wear a mouthguard while sleeping. Your Tedford family dentist can get you fitted for a custom night guard to prevent tooth damage, jaw tension, headings, and other dental problems by minimizing the effects of grinding and clenching throughout the night. This is a wise investment, and though the night guard may take some getting used to, it will be more than worth it in the long haul.

4– Avoid Stains!

Perhaps your teeth aren’t quite as white as you’d like them to be? If this is the case with you, you could resolve to avoid drinks and foods that can stain your teeth over time. Coffee, tea, wine, and other food and drink can take their toll on teeth, but you can protect your teeth from these stains by avoiding these items whenever possible to protect the cosmetic appeal of your smile.

5– Drink More Water

Isn’t this something we could all stand to do? Probably. Water is like a dear friend to the human body. Getting enough water can result in more energy, healthier skin, better digestion, and much more. Drinking more water can also help boost your dental health by rinsing away food particles that can cause decay, and by introducing your teeth to more fluoride, which is in a lot of drinking water.

No matter what you settle on for this year’s resolutions, our team at Tedford Family Dentistry wishes you all the best in the upcoming year, and we’re here to support you and your family for all your dental health needs. Contact us if you need a cleaning or exam, and cheers to a new year.
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