What Can Stain Your Teeth?

Teeth stain when the enamel of your teeth gets discolored. Even though brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can keep them clean, they still do need extra care from regular dental cleanings. During this appointment, your dentist will professionally clean your teeth, keeping plaque and tartar away.

Here are the various factors that stain your teeth:

Tobacco

Tobacco is one of the worst substances for your oral health. It increases your risk of gum disease, tooth loss, oral cancer, and even heart disease.

Cigarette smoking is the top cause of oral cancer. One in five cancer deaths is linked to cigarette smoking. If you smoke, quitting is one of the most important things you can do to prevent your teeth from staining and for your health.

Coffee

Coffee stains your teeth due to the tannins found in coffee. These tannins dissolve into your tooth enamel and cause a yellowish-brown tint. If you drink coffee often, your teeth will look more yellow.

However, coffee isn’t the only beverage that stains your teeth. You should also avoid soft drinks, tea, and red wine. Each of these beverages contains tannins that stain your teeth.

Nutrition

Nutrition can influence both your oral and overall health. First, it can affect your tooth enamel. Enamel is the outermost layer of your teeth. It is porous and susceptible to staining. Enamel can also become damaged from certain types of foods, including highly acidic food. You may also want to be careful with highly acidic drinks, such as soda. Soda, juice, and sports drinks are acidic and can harm your enamel.

Aging

Teeth do change as you age, so your risk level for staining may change, too.

As you age, your teeth may become more yellow, brown or gray. This can be due to medications you’re taking, tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, or the natural aging process.

While teeth whitening can help, more dramatic staining issues may require dental veneers.

Trauma

Traumatic injuries can cause damage to your teeth. A tooth that is knocked out, broken, or fractured may be more susceptible to staining. Since the surface of a tooth is porous, it can become discolored over time when exposed to staining agents such as coffee, tea, and tobacco.

Medications

Some medications can cause discoloration of your teeth. Some of these medications are antibiotics, antihistamines, blood pressure medication, antidepressants, and antipsychotics.

Medications that are typically prescribed to treat allergies can cause staining of your teeth. You can take extra precautions to prevent staining by rinsing your mouth out with water after using the medication.

 

Choo Choo City Dentistry, located in Chattanooga, TN, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (423) 756-0957 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to know more about the services provided at the dental practice. 

Seven Tips To Get Rid Of Bad Breath

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can result from poor oral hygiene habits. In some cases, bad breath can be a sign of an underlying oral health problem, such as gum disease, tooth decay, dry mouth, or an infection.

Follow good oral hygiene habits

Plaque is a buildup of bacteria and food particles that accumulate in the mouth due to poor oral hygiene habits. These bacteria cause tooth decay and gum disease. The buildup of bacteria also causes a foul odor in your mouth. Good oral hygiene habits include brushing at least twice per day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.

Brush your tongue

The tongue can harbor bacteria that cause bad breath. You should brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and move the brush in a back-and-forth motion. It is recommended to brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth. Tongue scrapers are an effective tool to help remove the bacteria that can cause cavities and bad breath. Bacteria can accumulate quite quickly on the tongue, so it’s best to use a tongue scraper every day. The tongue scraper is specially designed to remove the buildup of skin, bacteria, and fungi from the surface of your tongue. Using a tongue scraper is more effective in fighting bad breath than using a toothbrush alone.

Clean dentures or dental appliances

Dentures should be removed at night and soaked in an antiseptic solution. The denture should be cleaned daily with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Soaking the denture in a cleansing solution can help remove plaque and debris from the surface of the denture. It can also eliminate foul odors.

Avoid dry mouth

A dry mouth is caused by an inadequate amount of saliva in the mouth. Saliva is a natural defense mechanism. It washes away food particles and other debris from the teeth and gums, keeping bacteria and plaque at bay. When the mouth lacks this natural protection, harmful oral bacteria accumulate and result in bad breath. If left untreated, dry mouth can lead to various complications including tooth decay and gum disease.

The causes for dry mouth include aging; smoking tobacco cigarettes; taking certain medications; having anxiety, depression, or stress; using alcohol excessively; and having diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome, diabetes, Parkinson’s, HIV/AIDS, strokes, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. These conditions all affect salivary gland function and can cause dry mouth.

To combat dry mouth, patients should drink plenty of water throughout the day. Patients should also avoid alcohol and caffeine if they experience these symptoms. It is important to tell your dentist about your symptoms to get a proper diagnosis so that you can treat this condition as soon as possible.

Adjust your diet

Some foods can contribute to bad breath. Garlic and onions can make your breath smell bad for a long time; however, brushing, flossing and mouthwash can usually get rid of that odor. Another common food to avoid is coffee. Coffee can be very acidic and therefore it can wear away at the enamel of your teeth and cause bad breath. A well-balanced diet can help to prevent bad breath. Avoiding sugary foods and drinks can help keep your mouth clean and healthy as well. Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and produce acids. These acids are what cause decay and inflammation in your mouth which creates the unpleasant odors associated with bad breath.

Regularly get a new toothbrush

The team at our dental office wants to remind all of our patients that it’s important to replace toothbrushes on a regular basis in order to keep your smile healthy and bright. Toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months as well.

Schedule regular dental checkups

Regular dental checkups can be the key to avoiding bad breath and many other issues altogether. These appointments are more than just an opportunity for the dentist to tell you to brush and floss more; they’re a chance to catch and treat anything problematic before it worsens even further. The American Dental Association recommends scheduling an appointment for a checkup and cleaning twice each year.

Choo Choo City Dentistry, located in Chattanooga, TN, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (423) 756-0957 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to learn more about the services provided at the dental practice. 

Tips And Tricks To Ease Dental Fear

Fear and anxiety about dental appointments are quite common. Many times, patients avoid getting the treatment they need just because they are afraid of the dental procedures.

Talk about your fears with the dentist

It is normal to feel anxious when going to a dentist. However, if you just have mild anxiety or nervousness, dentists offer several tips to ease your fear during your appointments. Aside from discussing your concerns with your dentist, consider these tips for your next appointment.

Always disclose your fears and concerns to your dentist. Letting your dentist know about your worries can make him or her more attentive toward you and can address your concerns accordingly. Your dentist will also know the specific areas that trigger your fear and can better accommodate you by having the necessary tools and equipment ready.

Agree on a signal

If talking to your dentist makes you uncomfortable, you may discuss a signal that will let your dentist know that you are feeling uncomfortable. Some patients prefer raising their hands, while others may prefer a small word such as “relax” or “stop.” Dentists are well-trained to understand these signals.

Take a friend or family member with you for support

Whether it’s your first time at the dentist’s office or you’ve been going there for years, going alone can be scary! Bringing someone, you trust into the office can be a great way to reduce anxiety.

Ask your dentist if you can bring a support person in for your visit. Your friend can help hold your hand and distract you while you sit in the chair, as well as help reminds you of what you have done when you get home. This can be especially helpful if you’re nervous about being put under anesthesia.

Bring distractions to occupy your mind during procedures

Distracting yourself during a procedure can help you relax and feel more comfortable. If you are afraid of going to the dentist and are anxious about a procedure, taking something to distract yourself from the situation can help ease your anxiety. Bringing a book or magazine to read in the waiting room, listening to music on your iPod during the procedure, and bringing a friend or a loved one who you can talk to can give you something else to focus on and help you relax while you are in the dentist’s chair.

Consider Sedation Dentistry

Some patients may want to consider sedation dentistry if they are especially fearful or anxious about their dental treatments. Many offices offer oral conscious sedation, which can be taken before your treatment to help sedate and relax you. Intravenous sedation is also an option that is offered if you need to be asleep for your dental appointment. Talk to your dentist about the best option for you to make your next dentist appointment as easy as possible.

Sedation dentistry relaxes you and alleviates your nervousness or anxiety. This helps you tolerate lengthy dental procedures without discomfort. Types of sedatives include oral pills, nitrous oxide gas, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. Talk to your dentist to find out if sedation is right for you.

Choo Choo City Dentistry, located in Chattanooga, TN, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (423) 756-0957 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to learn more about the services provided at the dental practice. 

How To Keep Your Teeth Healthy This Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to express your love. This day is marked by expressing love through gifts like chocolates, cards, flowers, etc. This day also encourages couples to show their love for each other by going out on special dates.

Brushing and Flossing Regularly

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner! While you should be nice to your significant other, never neglect your own oral hygiene. Remember to brush and floss at least twice a day to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Make sure that you are using a soft-bristled toothbrush to protect your enamel. If you experience tooth sensitivity or pain, try using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and see your dentist for an exam and possible treatment recommendations.

Using Mouthwash and Dental Floss

Flossing and using mouthwash are your two best lines of defense against gum disease, cavities, bad breath, and other oral health problems. For Valentine’s Day this year, consider surprising your loved one with a brand-new toothbrush or floss holder! You can also take them to the dentist for a checkup and a cleaning if you would like to do something more special. A healthy smile is always a great gift for Valentine’s Day.

Regular Dental Checkups

When patients think of their dentist, they often think about checkups and cleanings. However, these procedures aren’t the only reasons to visit your dentist. Your regular dental checkup isn’t just about making sure your teeth are clean and free of plaque and food debris. It’s also about helping to prevent future problems from occurring in your mouth that could threaten your oral health and your overall well-being.

During your checkup, we will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth, gums, teeth, tongue, throat, jaw muscles, and more to look for early warning signs of any potential problems. If we find anything that needs to be addressed or brushed off, we will do so before they become a problem. We will also clean your teeth, apply fluoride treatments if necessary, and recommend any treatment you might need to improve the health of your smile.

Remember to schedule a checkup every six months for a healthier smile and better overall health.

 

Choo Choo City Dentistry, located in Chattanooga, TN, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (423) 756-0957 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to learn more about the services provided at the dental practice. 

Bad Habits That Are Damaging Your Oral Health

Tooth damage can occur due to certain habits. Listed below are common tooth damage habits that should be avoided:

  • Nail Biting

Nail biting is a bad habit that can cause a number of oral health issues. For example, it can wear down your teeth, causing chipping and cracking. It can also lead to infection of the gums or jaw misalignment. If you bite your nails often, talk to your dentist about tips to break the habit.

  • Smoking

Cigarette smoke contains thousands of chemicals that can harm our teeth and gums. The harmful chemicals from cigarette smoke will cling to your teeth and mouth lining and cause staining over time. Tar and nicotine found in cigarettes will also damage your gum tissue and lead to tooth loss and gum disease. Smokers also have a higher risk of developing oral cancer compared to those who don’t smoke. To avoid these complications, you need to quit this bad habit now.

Smoking also affects your oral health indirectly by causing dry mouth. A dry mouth is a condition where there is not enough saliva in the mouth, which helps wash away bacteria and food particles that can stick to the teeth and cause decay. Saliva also acts as a natural cleanser to remove plaque from the mouth. When you have a dry mouth, you have a higher risk of developing tooth decay, bad breath, and other oral problems. Nicotine in cigarettes causes salivary glands to shrink, which can also lead to a dry mouth. Quitting the habit can help reverse the effects of dry mouth. Once you stop smoking, the body will be able to produce more saliva, which will help flush away bacteria and protect your oral health.

If you find it hard to quit smoking on your own, you can seek professional help. Support groups can help you in your journey toward quitting smoking. There are also medications that can help ease withdrawal symptoms so you can get through the first few weeks without smoking.

  • Brushing Teeth Aggressively

If you brush your teeth too forcefully or do not brush them regularly at all, it can lead to problems such as bleeding gums and receding gum lines. This can also damage the enamel of the teeth. Instead, make sure you use a soft-bristled toothbrush and make a circular motion while cleaning your teeth. Do not scrub back and forth since this can harm the tooth enamel. Also, don’t forget to floss after every meal. Flossing helps remove the food debris from between the teeth and also stimulates healthy gum tissue growth.

  • Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding is an involuntary habit for many patients. The damage that it does to the teeth can range from subtle to severe and can even be dangerous in some cases. When patients are asleep, they grind or clench their teeth together as a result of bruxism. This can happen because of stress, sleep disorder, misalignment of the jaw joint, or even as a side effect of certain medications. Many patients do not even realize that they are doing this until they get checked out at the dentist’s office and discover the damage that it has done to their smile. But the good news is that a dentist can prescribe a night guard to help patients stop grinding their teeth while sleeping.

By wearing a night guard, a patient protects their tooth enamel from the effects of grinding. They form a barrier between the upper and lower molars where otherwise the teeth would be touching. This prevents wear and tear on the teeth and also helps to prevent chips and cracks that can lead to further complications and long-term problems. However, the easiest first step is to stop grinding altogether, which can be done with the help of a dentist.

  • Using Teeth As Tools

A habit as simple as chewing on a pen or pencil may seem harmless, but it actually can wreak havoc on your smile by wearing down your tooth enamel and damaging your gums. Once tooth enamel is gone, it doesn’t grow back! Enamel protects the sensitive inner layers of your teeth from damage, so when it is compromised, it puts your teeth and gums at risk of developing decay, infection, sensitivity, and more problems.

You should also avoid using your teeth to open packages or cut tape because these types of activities can damage the protective layers and expose the inner parts of your teeth to potential harm.

Additionally, it’s important to consider the fact that using your teeth as tools can actually lead to tooth loss. That’s because regular use of your teeth as a tool can cause cracks or chips in a tooth, which can also lead to a crack in your dental veneer or dental crown that will cause severe pain and require immediate attention.

If you’re experiencing pain in a tooth or if you’ve noticed a crack in your dental restoration, contact our office right away to schedule an emergency visit. We’ll get you treated as soon as possible so you can avoid further damage to your smile.

  • Not Visiting Your Dentist Regularly

When you visit the dentist every six months for a regular checkup and cleaning, you can reduce your risk for tooth decay and gum disease.

The dentist will clean your teeth and examine them to look for any signs of cavities or gum disease. If there are signs of damage, your dentist may recommend restorative treatments to repair your smile. Additionally, these routine visits will also allow the dentist to catch any minor problems before they become major oral health issues. If you skip appointments with your dentist, you may develop serious problems that require costly treatment to fix.

Choo Choo City Dentistry, located in Chattanooga, TN, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (423) 756-0957 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to learn more about the services provided at the dental practice. 

How Stress May Affect Your Oral Health

Stress is one of the most common and widespread issues in today’s world. The condition is so common that it is even considered an epidemic. It can affect us in many different ways. It can make us physically ill and mentally unstable and even affect our dental health.

The Biology Behind How Stress Affects the Body

When you experience stress, it’s your body’s natural response to external pressures and stimuli. Your body goes into fight-or-flight mode. This activates your sympathetic nervous system, which works to help you either run from the situation or confront the problem at hand. However, this response also changes other bodily functions like your heart rate, blood pressure, and even your immune system.

When this occurs, your body isn’t able to focus on keeping your mouth and teeth healthy. It can’t create protective saliva to fight off bacteria. Instead, it creates cortisol which weakens the enamel on your teeth as well as causes gingivitis and other gum problems. Also, your blood pressure increases which cause inflammation in the gums and surrounding tissue. This can lead to serious gum disease issues as well as other health problems as well.

Dentists in Chattanooga recommend that patients be aware of their stress levels in order to reduce the effects of stress on their health. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try to find a healthy way to release that stress. Exercise, meditation, yoga, or even a nice long walk can help relieve stress and calm you down. Managing your stress and finding ways to reduce it can help promote better oral health in the long run!

The Link Between Stress And Oral Health

When you feel stressed, your body releases hormones in response. This response causes you to breathe faster and your heart rate to increase. These physical changes affect how your mouth functions, too. For example, you may have trouble sleeping at night due to stress and may have more difficulty maintaining good oral hygiene habits.

Here are some unique challenges that you may experience if you are highly stressed:

  • Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
  • Bruxism (teeth grinding)
  • Increased plaque buildup and gum disease
  • Dry mouth (Xerostomia)
  • An increase in the estimated time it takes to brush your teeth (as compared to your baseline)

If you are feeling stressed, try consulting with a doctor about your options. Some doctors may recommend cognitive behavioral therapy or relaxation techniques to help you manage your stress levels. Your dentist may also recommend that you schedule routine visits for cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

 

Choo Choo City Dentistry, located in Chattanooga, TN, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (423) 756-0957 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to learn more about the services provided at the dental practice. 

Restore Your Smile With Restorative Dentistry

Teeth can be lost due to decay, gum disease, or injury. Not only are missing teeth unsightly, but they can also cause other teeth to shift out of place and can make chewing and eating difficult. There are a variety of restorative dentistry options available, depending on your budget and your needs. Listed below are some of the most common treatments.

Dental Fillings

Fillings are the most common type of restorative dental treatment at the dentist’s office, and they are designed to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay. The composite material is shaped to correct the shape of the tooth and is then bonded to the tooth. A filling can be reversed in the future if additional treatment is needed.

Dental Crown

Patients may need to have a crown made of porcelain or gold placed over the tooth for a longer-term solution. This restoration will completely cover the tooth to prevent further damage or deterioration.

The dentist will evaluate your dental health to determine if a crown or a filling is right for you. If damage to the tooth is severe, the dentist may recommend you undergo root canal therapy to remove the infected pulp from the tooth and replace it with an inert material. This will protect the structural integrity of the tooth while maintaining its functionality.

Once the treatment and treatment plan is decided, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth to send to a lab for the procedure. Typically, it takes a couple of weeks to have a crown or filling made. You will need to schedule a follow-up appointment to have the crown placed on your tooth after it has been prepared by the lab. The procedure to place the crown typically takes about an hour to complete.

There are several types of crowns available, including full porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, and full metal. Your dentist will be able to discuss these options with you to determine which option is best for you.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a type of restorative dental treatment that replaces one or more missing teeth. Bridges use crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap to anchor the bridge in place and provide stability within the mouth. The false tooth or teeth are suspended between dental crowns. The bridge is bonded to the surrounding teeth using dental cement, and this provides a strong, durable restoration capable of lasting for decades with proper care. With proper dental care and regular checkups and cleanings, your dental bridges will last for years.

Dental Implants

Implants are the most modern restorative dentistry treatment available for missing teeth. Unlike dentures, which must be removed and cleaned daily, dental implants are permanent. They are placed directly into the jawbone to support the crowns that will later be attached to them. They look and feel exactly like natural teeth once they have healed in the mouth! The dental implants themselves are small posts made of titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone where the teeth are missing. These implants will fuse with the surrounding bone tissue during a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and sturdy base for the restoration. Once this fusion is complete, the dentist can then attach a crown to the implant post. Your new tooth will look and function just like a natural tooth!

 

Choo Choo City Dentistry, located in Chattanooga, TN, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (423) 756-0957 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to learn more about the services provided at the dental practice. 

Toothaches: Everything You Need To Know

A toothache is a pain that originates from a tooth. The tooth may be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, or it may feel painful when you chew on it. A toothache may indicate a dental condition that requires treatment.

What Causes A Toothache?

Tooth pain occurs for a number of reasons. A cavity is an infection of the tooth’s enamel and dentin. Decay develops when plaque builds up on the tooth. This causes the enamel to erode and the dentin to become exposed. The nerves in the tooth are exposed, which triggers pain. If the decay is not treated, it will continue to progress, causing more pain as it eats away at the tooth. The other causes of toothache include cracked or chipped teeth, tooth trauma, tooth sensitivity, gum disease, tooth wear, infection, etc.

What Are The Symptoms of A Toothache?

Some patients describe their toothaches as throbbing or aching, while others report sharp, stabbing pain. Gum-related toothaches typically produce a dull, constant pain. If your tooth hurts, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist for a thorough examination.

The major symptoms of a toothache include the following:

  • Sharp, throbbing, or constant toothache
  • Pain when pressure is applied to the tooth (biting down on something)
  • Swelling around the tooth
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Foul taste in the mouth
  • A bad smell from the mouth

Treatments For A Toothache

To treat a toothache, a dentist will perform an exam. The dentist will ask questions regarding the pain, check the tooth for signs of damage, and take an x-ray. A dentist can also provide a dental cleaning to remove any buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth.

If your toothache is caused by a cavity, the dentist will remove the decay and clean your tooth. Once your tooth is clean, they will fill it with a filling. If your tooth has structural damage, the dentist may recommend a dental crown. This will strengthen your tooth and prevent it from breaking in the future. In case of a dental infection, the dentist may give antibiotics to treat the infection, followed by a root canal treatment. For toothaches due to gum disease, a scaling and root planing procedure can help.

Prevention of Toothache

The best way to prevent toothaches is to practice good oral hygiene at home. Brushing and flossing regularly will prevent food debris from accumulating on and between teeth. If food particles remain in the mouth, bacteria can feed on them and produce an acidic substance that wears down tooth enamel and causes cavities. When cavities form, toothaches can occur.

Choo Choo City Dentistry, located in Chattanooga, TN, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (423) 756-0957 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to know more about the services provided at the dental practice. 

Improve Your Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry is a combination of dental procedures that are designed to enhance your smile and improve your overall appearance. These procedures can correct cracked, broken, stained, or chipped teeth, as well as teeth that are misaligned or misshapen. The appearance of your smile is linked to your dental health.

We offer cosmetic treatments that can fix a wide range of common dental issues. These treatments include:

Teeth Whitening

There are many options for teeth whitening, i.e., professional teeth whitening and at-home teeth whitening. Professional teeth whitening is done at the dentist’s office under supervision. A whitening gel is applied to your teeth, and the bleaching agent is activated using a special light. We will also protect your gums while performing the procedure.

If you’re interested in getting whiter teeth at home, then a take-home teeth whitening kit may be all you need. We offer custom teeth bleaching trays and gels to fit your mouth perfectly so that you can achieve the best results.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a fast, safe, and effective way to repair minor cosmetic issues. At the time of treatment, the dentist can bond composite resin material to your teeth. This material can be tinted to match the surrounding teeth. The bonding resin can be shaped and molded to your teeth to effectively conceal any chips, cracks, stains, or gaps between teeth.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or resin composite. They are bonded to the front of teeth to conceal chips, cracks, misalignment, and discoloration.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are used to treat damaged teeth or to hold space over an implant. These restorations can be customized to fit your mouth.

If a tooth is damaged, a dental crown can be placed to protect the remaining tooth structure. A crown also restores a tooth after a root canal.

Dental crowns are also used to hold dental bridges in place. They can also be used to support a tooth that has a large filling.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are another tooth replacement option that can restore your smile.

Dental bridges are permanent, non-removable appliances. They consist of crowns that go over two teeth on either side of the missing tooth. A false tooth or teeth fill the space of the missing tooth and are held in place by the dental crowns.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a versatile treatment option for patients missing one, several, or all of their teeth. They are titanium posts that replace the roots of missing teeth and are permanently anchored into the jawbone, providing a stable base for prosthetic teeth.

 

Choo Choo City Dentistry, located in Chattanooga, TN, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (423) 756-0957 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to know more about the services provided at the dental practice. 

Protect Your Teeth With Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are plastic coatings that are placed on a person’s back teeth, premolars, and molars. These tooth surfaces are particularly susceptible to tooth decay because they are pitted and grooved. Dental sealants protect these teeth from bacteria and acids that can cause cavities. Dental sealants are quick, painless, and noninvasive. The teeth need to be cleaned well before applying dental sealants.

Applying dental sealants only takes a few minutes, and the process does not require any anesthetics or drills. A special gel will be applied to the teeth, and the plastic sealant is then painted over the teeth. The plastic sealant is then allowed to dry.

What Are Dental Sealants For?

Dental sealants are plastic coatings that are typically placed on the back teeth (premolars and molars) to prevent tooth decay. They work by filling in pits and grooves in the teeth and creating a smooth surface that is less likely to trap food particles and bacteria.

Are Dental Sealants Safe?

Dental sealants are safe and effective and are only used if dentists determine that they are a necessary treatment. They are noninvasive and do not involve dental tools in the actual application or placement of sealants. Dental sealants are made of plastic or resin, and they are applied to the surfaces of the teeth without any dental tools (a brush or swab).

How To Care For Dental Sealants?

You should care for your barrier sealant the same way you care for your natural teeth. While your dental sealants are protecting your teeth, you should still brush and floss every day. You should also avoid chewing on hard items like ice, fingernails, and pencils.

Because dental sealants are plastic, they can last for several years. You should continue to attend your biannual dental appointments so that your dentist can check the sealant’s condition. If you consume large amounts of sugary foods, the sealant should be replaced more frequently.

Dental sealants are most often recommended for children, but adults can benefit from them as well.

 

Choo Choo City Dentistry, located in Chattanooga, TN, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (423) 756-0957 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to know more about the services provided at the dental practice.