General News Archives - Richview Family Dentistry Archive

Here’s What the ADA Says About Piercings

Posted on: August 16th, 2022 by tcg_admin

Body piercing is a popular form of self-expression. Oral piercings may look cool, but they can harm your health. Richview Family Dentistry wants you to know some of the possible problems.

Infection, Pain & Swelling

Your mouth is a moist environment, home to huge amounts of bacteria, and an ideal place for infections.
Piercing the tongue can also cause your tongue to swell, potentially blocking your airway.

Damage to Gums, Teeth, and Fillings

A common habit of biting or playing with the piercing can injure your gums and lead to cracked, scratched, or sensitive teeth. They can also damage fillings.

Hypersensitivity to Metals

Allergic reactions at the pierced site are also possible.

Nerve Damage

After piercing, you may experience a numb tongue caused by nerve damage that is usually temporary but can sometimes be permanent.
The injured nerve may affect your sense of taste or how you move your mouth.
Damage to your tongue’s blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.

Excessive Drooling

Your tongue piercing can increase saliva production.

Dental Appointment Difficulties

The jewelry can get in the way of dental care by blocking X-rays.

Precautions:

Contact your dentist immediately if you have any signs of infection, swelling, pain, fever, chills, or a red-streaked appearance around the piercing site.
Keep the piercing site clean by using a mouth rinse after every meal.
When participating in sports, remove the jewelry and protect your mouth with a mouth guard.
See your dentist regularly, and remember to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily.

If it has been a while since your last check-up or if you’re new to the area and looking for a family dentist, give us a call today at (931) 647-2243. We love new patients at Richview Family Dentistry!

The Best Foods for a Healthy Mouth

Posted on: April 19th, 2022 by tcg_admin

Richview Family Dentistry has a list of the best foods to help you maintain a healthy mouth

Dairy

Milk, cheese, and other dairy products are low in sugar which is good for your dental health.
Dairy products contain protein and are full of calcium, which can help strengthen your teeth leading to a healthy mouth.

Proteins

Phosphorus-rich foods such as meat, poultry, fish, milk, and eggs help to strengthen your teeth and contain valuable nutrients and protein.

Fruits and vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are not only an essential part of any balanced diet but can also be good for your teeth.
They are high in water and fiber which helps to balance the sugars they contain and help to clean your teeth.

Nuts

Nuts contain protein and minerals essential for overall health.
Nuts that are low in carbohydrates don’t add to your risk of cavities because tooth decay is caused by acid-producing bacteria that are activated by carbs.
Chewing nuts also stimulates saliva production which can reduce your risk for tooth decay.

Water

Water right out of the tap is the best beverage for your oral health. Clarksville’s water is safe to drink and is fluoridated.
Fluoride helps to make teeth more resistant to the acid attacks that can cause cavities.

Of course, Richview Family Dentistry recommends brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily to maintain a healthy mouth.

What To Tell Your Child About the Tooth Fairy

Posted on: February 16th, 2022 by tcg_admin

Richview Family Dentistry has some advice on what to do if your child asks about the Tooth Fairy

On average, children start losing their baby teeth around the age of 6. While some parents don’t like to lie about Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, and the Tooth Fairy, others let their child’s imaginations run wild with the thoughts of these myths for as long as they can. So what should you do if they ask if the Tooth Fairy is real?

Follow your child’s lead

If your child asks about it, try asking them, “What do you think?”
If they seem ready for the truth, give it to them!
If they don’t, try saying, “I absolutely believe in the magic of the tooth fairy!”

When they find out the Tooth Fairy is not real

Teach them about the tradition that has been passed down for generations.
Remind them of the fun they had putting their tooth under their pillow and waking up to find a prize.
Talk to them about how parents become the Tooth Fairy because they love seeing their joy.

Remind them that they should keep the secret and not ruin it for younger siblings or other children.

Oral health

This conversation is a great opportunity to discuss the importance of maintaining healthy oral habits like brushing twice a day and flossing daily.

Losing baby teeth is a rite of passage. However, the magic does not have to end with knowing that the Tooth Fairy is not real. You can make losing teeth special and meaningful regardless!

If it has been a while since your child’s last check-up or if you are new to the area and looking for a family dentist, give us a call today at (931) 647-2243. We love new patients at Richview Family Dentistry!

Can Chewing Sugarless Gum Prevent Cavities?

Posted on: December 15th, 2021 by tcg_admin

Richview Family Dentistry has some interesting facts about how chewing sugarless gum may help prevent cavities

Studies show chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes following meals can help prevent tooth decay.

Chewing gum on a regular basis, especially after a meal, can improve your oral health, but only if you choose sugar-free.
- Sugarless gum increases the flow of saliva, which washes away food and other debris.
  - Saliva neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth and provides disease-fighting substances throughout the mouth.
  - Increased saliva production also carries with it more calcium and phosphate to help strengthen tooth enamel.
- Sugar-free gum can reduce the development of plaque and reduce gingivitis.
- It can also strengthen teeth by remineralizing and can help with digestion.
- Always look for sugarless gum with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
  - Gum with the ADA Seal is sweetened with non-cavity-causing sweeteners such as aspartame, xylitol, sorbitol, or mannitol.
Why sugarless?
- Regular gum is filled with a variety of sugars, preservatives, and artificial flavoring. All of these ingredients are necessary to create those fun flavors people love, however, adding them to the gum can dramatically impact your oral health.
- Gum-containing sugar puts you at an increased risk for developing cavities.
- Cavities and tooth decay can develop over time with prolonged exposure to sugars, artificial flavorings, and preservatives.
Gum chewing should not replace regular dental practices
- Chewing sugarless gum is not a substitute for brushing or flossing.
- The ADA recommends brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- It’s also recommended to use dental floss or other interdental cleaners to remove plaque from between your teeth at least once a day.
If it has been a while since your last check-up or if you’re new to the area and looking for a family dentist, give us a call today at (931) 647-2243. We love new patients at Richview Family Dentistry!

Signs, Treatment & Prevention of Tooth Decay

Posted on: October 18th, 2021 by tcg_admin

Richview Family Dentistry wants you to know all about tooth decay from the signs to look for, how to prevent it, and what treatment to seek if you have tooth decay

Tooth decay is very common and roughly 8 out of 10 people have one or more teeth with decay.

Those with higher risks of tooth decay include

The elderly
Those on medication containing sugar
Dry mouth sufferers
People with diabetes
People with receding gums
Those who have poor oral hygiene

Signs

Toothache
Tooth sensitivity
Unpleasant taste in your mouth
Dark spot on the surface of your tooth

Treatment

In the early stages, your dentist may apply a fluoride varnish onto the area to help stop decay from getting worse.
If the decay is not too serious, your dentist can remove the decay and repair the tooth with a filling.
If the nerve in the middle of your tooth is damaged, you may need a root canal to repair the tooth with a filling or crown.
If a tooth is so badly decayed that it cannot be repaired, you may have to have the tooth removed. The dentist will then suggest replacing the tooth with a bridge, denture, or implant.

Prevention

The best way to prevent tooth decay is by brushing your teeth thoroughly, twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Make sure you brush the inner, outer, and biting surfaces of your teeth carefully and along the gumline.
Flossing regularly helps to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
And most importantly, have regular checkups with your dentist.

If it has been a while since your last check-up or if you are new to the area and looking for a family dentist, give us a call today at (931) 647-2243. We love new patients at Richview Family Dentistry!

Foods That Can Damage Your Teeth

Posted on: August 10th, 2021 by tcg_admin

Richview Family Dentistry wants you to know the dangers of some of the foods you eat or drinks you consume as it pertains to your oral health

Hard Candy

Constant exposure to the sugar in hard candy can be harmful to your teeth.
Biting down on hard candy can result in a dental emergency such as broken or chipped teeth.
Alternative: Chew sugarless gum that carries the ADA Seal.

Ice

Chewing on ice can damage the enamel of your teeth and can also break a tooth.
Alternative: Drink plain water.

Citrus

Frequent exposure to acidic food can erode the enamel of your teeth.
Citrus fruits can also irritate mouth sores.
Alternative: Drink plenty of water.

Coffee

Coffee and tea can be healthy beverages but too many people add sugar.
Coffee and tea can also stain your teeth.
If you do drink coffee and tea, make sure to also drink plenty of water and try to keep the added sugar to a minimum.

Sticky Foods

Dried fruit can be seen as a healthy snack, however, they are sticky and tend to stay on the teeth longer than other food.
Alternative: Be sure to rinse with water after eating dried fruit and brush and floss carefully.

Crunchy Snacks

Crunchy snacks like potato chips are filled with starch, which tends to get trapped in your teeth.
If you eat lots of crunchy foods, be sure to floss carefully to remove all the food particles that can lead to plaque build-up.

Sodas

Sodas are loaded with sugar that produces acids that attack tooth enamel.
Even diet sodas are acidic and therefore can be bad for your teeth if you consume a lot of them.
Caffeinated sodas can also dry out your mouth.
Alternative: Drink a cup of water alongside each soda you consume.

Alcohol

Alcohol causes dehydration, dry mouth, and a reduction of saliva which can lead to tooth decay.
Heavy alcohol use also increases your risk for mouth cancer.

Sports Drinks

They sound healthy but sugar is the top ingredient in sports and energy drinks.
Check the sugar content before downing any of these drinks.
Alternative: Water!

The Importance of Oral Health for Older Patients

Posted on: April 23rd, 2021 by tcg_admin

Richview Family Dentistry wants you to know that there are special considerations and precautions to be made for your oral health, especially if you’re over 65

There are several factors that lead to special precautions for adults, especially those over the age of 65:

An aging patient’s health can be complicated by comorbid conditions
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Physiologic changes associated with aging
Dental conditions associated with aging include
- Dry mouth*
- Root and coronal caries
- Periodontitis

*A number of factors can cause dry mouth, including many medications. This can be detrimental, as saliva helps you eat and talk. Saliva also carries minerals that keep teeth strong.

To combat the effects of dry mouth:
- Take small sips of water throughout the day
- Suck on sugar-free lozenges
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco

According to data from NHANES, 39% of people aged 65 years and older reported using 5 or more prescription drugs.

Drugs most commonly prescribed in elderly patients include:

“Statin” drugs for hypercholesterolemia
Antihypertensive agents
Drugs for endocrine dysfunction
And some OTC medications like laxatives and vitamins

Patients with physical limitations

Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect a person’s ability to maintain good quality home oral care.
Modification of manual toothbrush handles or the use of electronic toothbrushes can help accommodate for lost mobility.
Increasing the frequency of dental cleanings and examinations can help promote optimal maintenance of oral hygiene.

The Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) suggests seeing your dentist regularly so they can check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, poorly fitting dentures, and oral cancer, especially for those patients who are over 65 years of age.

If it’s been a while since your last check-up or if you’re new to the area and looking for a family dentist, give us a call today at (931) 647-2243. We love new patients at Richview Family Dentistry!

Best Practices for Whiter Teeth

Posted on: October 19th, 2020 by tcg_admin

Richview Family Dentistry has some tips for a whiter and brighter smile

Stains: Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Stains

Extrinsic stains occur on the surface of the tooth and are caused by tobacco use, beverages such as red wine, tea or cola drinks.
- Brushing with a whitening toothpaste or professional prophylaxis can reduce tooth coloration due to extrinsic stains.
Intrinsic stains involve tooth surfaces beneath the enamel.
- These can be related to aging, long-term antibiotics (tetracycline), or amalgam restorations.

Over-the-Counter vs. Dentist-Supervised

Over-the-counter options include a variety of products from toothpaste to paint-on gels and whitening strips.
- Toothpastes primarily rely on abrasives to remove surface stains.
- Whitening strips rely on peroxide to bleach teeth.
Dentist-supervised options involve in-office application of a peroxide-containing gel, with or without a light intended to accelerate and enhance the bleaching process.
- Dentist-supervised at-home options involve a whitening gel which the patient places in a customized tray made in the office to fit comfortably and minimize contact of the gel with the gingiva.
Cost may be a consideration for patients when choosing whitening options.
- Over-the-counter products are less expensive than at-home or in-office approaches, but there is a time trade-off in that OTC products may take significantly longer.

When choosing a method, bear in mind that it’s best to buy OTC products that have the ADA Seal of Acceptance. To have this seal, the manufacturers must apply to the American Dental Association’s Council on Scientific Affairs and submit data to show that their products are safe and effective.

If you have any questions about which method of whitening to use, please contact us. We’re here to help make sure you have a healthy and dazzling smile.

If it’s been a while since your last check-up or if you’re new to the area and are looking for a family dentist, call us. We love new patients at Richview Family Dentistry. Call us to make an appointment today at (931) 647-2243.

Best Practices for Healthy Teeth and Gums

Posted on: July 30th, 2020 by tcg_admin

Richview Family Dentistry wants to remind you of the basics for good oral health

Here’s a list of what you should be doing daily to maintain healthy teeth and gums:

Brush regularly
- Brushing twice a day is one of the most important things to do for good oral health.
- Don’t brush too hard and don’t use a hard-bristled toothbrush.
- The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends using a soft-bristled brush and you should change it out every 3 months.

Use fluoride
- Fluoride helps prevent cavities and is a common ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwash.
- Evidence suggests that a lack of fluoride can lead to tooth decay.

Floss
- Flossing removes plaque and bacteria from between the teeth.
- It can also prevent bad breath by removing debris and food between the teeth that brushing can’t reach.

Don’t smoke
- Smoking harms the body’s immune system, can cause gum disease, and can also slow down the healing process after a dental procedure.

Use mouthwash
- Some studies say that certain mouthwashes can benefit oral health by helping to control plaque and gingivitis.
Limit sugary foods and starches
- Consuming too much sugar can lead to cavities.
- Starchy foods can cause tooth decay.
- The ADA recommends eating plenty of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables as well as dairy products without added sugar.
Drink water instead of soda
- Drinking sugar-sweetened beverages is the number one cause of cavities.
- The ADA recommends drinking water or unsweetened tea throughout the day instead.
Make regular visits to your dentist
- It is recommended that you see your dentist every 6 months.
- The dentist can check for visual signs of cavities, gum disease, mouth cancer, and other oral health issues.
- A hygienist will clean your teeth and remove plaque and hardened tartar.

Coronavirus Update

Posted on: March 12th, 2020 by tcg_admin

Summer 2022 Update:

We are allowing patients in the reception area and we are allowing masks to be optional upon entering our office. We are continually monitoring the current covid tracker for our county. Thank you for being loyal patients. We are so happy to continue to serve you, your family, and friends.

May 2021 Update:

Our office is continuing to mitigate the potential spread of Covid-19 per the CDC guidelines for healthcare facilities. We do require masks to be worn while inside our facility. We are asking you to remain in your car and call our office upon arriving for your appointment. We will continue to check your temperature and then bring you in for your scheduled appointment.

Thank you for your understanding and we look forward to providing you with the best dental care possible.

May 19, 2020 Update:

We want to welcome back our loyal patients. Our reception area may be closed but we are so glad to see you! Please be aware we are operating under a new set of guidelines, but one thing has remained the same: our commitment to our patients.

You will notice some changes when it is time for your appointment.
Our office will be asking some screening questions when confirming your appointment.
When you arrive for your appointment, we ask that you remain in your vehicle. Please call us at 931-647-2243 to let us know you have arrived. A staff member will ask you some screening questions and take your temperature.
We ask that only the person with the appointment come into the office. If there are special circumstances, please speak with a staff member when they call to confirm the appointment.

Thank you for being loyal patients. We are so happy to continue to serve you, your family, and friends.

If you have a mask, please wear it. We will not be providing masks to patients at this time as there is a national shortage. Thank you for understanding.

March 23, 2020 Update:

Richview Family Dentistry is suspending services typically provided to our patients through April 5th. We will continue to be available to provide emergency services Monday- Thursday from 7am-12. This action is being taken in response to the coronavirus pandemic, on the recommendation of the Tennessee Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Richview Family Dentistry sincerely regrets any inconvenience this action may cause to our patients. Please know we are taking this unprecedented and extraordinary action because we are deeply concerned for the heath and well-being of the public and our dental team.

March 12, 2020 Update:

As the coronavirus (COVID-19) begins to have an increased impact on our community, we feel it is imperative to share with you the steps we are taking to ensure that our office stays healthy and safe.

We are monitoring information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local officials regarding the COVID-19. The health and safety of our patients and staff is our top priority. We have always taken great pride in maintaining a clean office. We will continue to follow strict infection control protocols for healthcare settings. Our office is professionally cleaned and maintained on a routine basis. We have hand sanitizer and cleaning stations in each room for our patients and staff to use. We are following all of the CDC recommendations to ensure a safe environment.

If you have flu or cold-like symptoms such as fever or cough, any newly developed shortness of breath, recently traveled to an area outside the US with known coronavirus (COVID-19), or been in contact with someone who has contracted the virus, you should contact your primary care physician and call us to reschedule your appointment at 931-647-2243.

931.647.2243

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