Tag Archive for "clarksville" - Richview Family Dentistry

Marijuana Use and Your Oral Health

Posted on: December 17th, 2022 by tcg_admin

According to the ADA, more than half of dentists reported patients arriving for appointments high.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, 21 states and the District of Columbia have legalized the adult use of marijuana for recreational purposes. Find out which states here. (Tennessee is not one of them)

Reasons why this is not a good idea:

Being high at the dentist can limit the care that can be given.
Marijuana and anesthesia impact the central nervous system, and some patients need to increase anesthesia to treat them.
Marijuana leads to increased anxiety, paranoia, and hyperactivity which could make the visit more stressful.
Marijuana also increases heart rate and unwanted respiratory side effects.
Marijuana users are more likely to have significantly more cavities.
The active ingredient in marijuana is THC, which makes you more hungry, and you don’t always make the healthiest food choices under the influence.

Marijuana and oral health

Marijuana is associated with gum disease and dry mouth, which can lead to many oral health issues.
Marijuana smokers are also at increased risk of mouth and neck cancers.

Medicinal use

Patients who use marijuana for medicinal purposes can work with their dentist as part of their personal healthcare team.
If used medicinally, you can stay on top of your oral health with strong daily hygiene:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Cleaning between teeth daily
- Making healthy snack choices
- Regular check-ups with your dentist

For more information about the side effects of Marijuana use, click here.

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

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!

931.647.2243

Posts Tagged ‘clarksville’