South Holston Dental Designs is dedicated to the highest standards of dentistry from design to delivery in a relaxed and comfortable environment using the latest in dental technology. At South Holston Dental Designs, we specialize in dental implants, preventative care, root canals, dentures, teeth whitening, crowns, extractions, complete dental rehabilitation, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions About South Holston Dental Designs
What should I do if I have bad breath?
There are various reasons one may have bad breath, but in healthy people, the major reason is due to microbial deposits on the tongue, especially the back of the tongue. Some studies have shown that simply brushing the tongue reduced bad breath by as much as 70 percent. Keeping a record of what you eat may help identify the cause of bad breath. Also, review your current medications, recent surgeries, or illnesses with you dentist.
How often should I brush and floss?
Toothbrushing – Brush your teeth at least twice a day (especially before going to bed at night) with an ADA approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste.
Flossing – Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.
Are amalgam (silver) fillings safe?
An amalgam is a blend of copper, silver, tin and zinc, bound by elemental mercury. Dentists have used this blended metal to fill teeth for more than 100 years. The general consensus is that amalgam (silver) fillings are safe. Along with the ADA’s position, the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization, the FDA, and others support the use of silver fillings as safe, durable, and cost effective.
How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning?
You should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year, though your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend more frequent visits. Regular dental exams and cleaning visits are essential in preventing dental problems and maintaining the health of your teeth and gums.
How can I tell if I have gingivitis or periodontitis (gum disease)?
Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages. Unlike tooth decay, which often causes discomfort, it is possible to have periodontal disease without noticeable symptoms. Having regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are very important and will help detect if periodontal problems exist.
Why is it important to use dental floss?
Brushing our teeth removes food particles, plaque, and bacteria from all tooth surfaces, except in between the teeth. Unfortunately, our toothbrush can’t reach these areas that are highly susceptible to decay and periodontal (gum) disease. Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.
How can cosmetic dentistry help improve the appearance of my smile?
There are many helpful cosmetic dental procedures available to improve your teeth, such as dental implants, veneers, crowns, and more. Depending on your particular needs, cosmetic dental treatments can change your smile dramatically, from restoring a single tooth to having a full mouth make-over.
What are porcelain veneers and how can they improve my smile?
Porcelain veneers are very thin shells of tooth-shaped porcelain that are individually crafted to cover the fronts of teeth. They are very durable and will not stain, making them a very popular solution for those seeking to restore or enhance the beauty of their smile.
What can I do about stained or discolored teeth?
Professional teeth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel, and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile. Over-the-counter products are also available, but they are much less effective than professional treatments and may not be approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).
What are my options if I have missing teeth?
There are many options for replacing a tooth that is missing due to removal, decay, or injury. Options include: removable bridges, fixed bridges, dentures, and dental implants. If you are missing teeth, ask us if they need replacement and what options are available to you.
What can be done about old, unattractive, or discolored fillings?
Options for replacing old, unattractive, or discolored fillings include: composite (bonding) fillings, crowns (caps), inlays/onlays, and porcelain veneers. As you can see, there are various options for replacing old, unattractive fillings. These treatments will provide strong, natural, and long-lasting replacement solutions to enhance the health and beauty of your smile.
What does heart disease and other medical conditions have to do with periodontal (gum) disease?
There are numerous studies that have looked into the correlation between gum disease and major medical conditions. These studies suggest people with periodontal disease are at a greater risk of systemic disease and indicate that periodontal disease may cause oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream and travel to major organs and begin new infections. Researchers conclude there is still much research to be done to understand the link between periodontal disease and systemic diseases, but enough research has been done to support that infections in the mouth can play havoc elsewhere in the body.
When are sealants recommended?
Although thorough brushing and flossing remove most food particles and bacteria from easy to reach tooth surfaces, they do not reach the deep grooves on chewing surfaces of teeth. More than 75 percent of dental decay begins in these deep grooves (called pits and fissures). Toothbrush bristles are too large to possibly fit and clean most of these areas. This is where sealants play an important role. A sealant is a thin plastic coating that covers and protects the chewing surfaces of molars, premolars, and any deep grooves or pits on teeth. Sealant material forms a protective, smooth barrier covering natural depressions and grooves in the teeth, making it much easier to clean and help keep these areas free of decay.
What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?
We’re all at risk for having a tooth knocked out. More than 5 million teeth are knocked out every year! If we know how to handle this emergency situation, we may be able to actually save the tooth. Teeth that are knocked out may be possibly reimplanted if we act quickly. The sooner the tooth is replaced back into the socket, the greater the likelihood it has to survive and possibly last for many years.
Why straighten teeth?
Straighter teeth perform chewing, biting and speaking functions more effectively than crooked teeth. In addition, a straight smile boosts confidence, is aesthetically pleasing to look at, and can help stave off a wide variety of dental ailments.
What services does South Holston Dental Designs specialize in?
South Holston Dental Designs specializes in dental implants, preventative care, root canals, dentures, teeth whitening, crowns, extractions, complete dental rehabilitation, and more.
What are the office hours of South Holston Dental Designs?
The office is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
How can I contact South Holston Dental Designs?
You can contact them by phone at +1 276-466-9800 or by email at office@southholstondentaldesigns.com.
How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning?
You should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year, though your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend more frequent visits to maintain optimal oral health.
What should I do if I have bad breath?
Bad breath is often caused by microbial deposits on the tongue. Brushing the tongue can reduce bad breath by up to 70%. Keeping track of your diet and reviewing medications or recent illnesses with your dentist can also help identify causes.
Are amalgam (silver) fillings safe?
Yes, amalgam fillings made of copper, silver, tin, zinc, and mercury have been used for over 100 years and are considered safe by major health organizations including the ADA, CDC, WHO, and FDA.
What options are available if I have missing teeth?
Options include removable bridges, fixed bridges, dentures, and dental implants. South Holston Dental Designs can help determine the best solution for your needs.
Are there places nearby where I can relax or eat after my dental appointment?
Yes, nearby you can visit Ladybug Cafe & Cakery, a café and cupcake shop ideal for a relaxing snack after your appointment.
Where can I find fuel or convenience stores near South Holston Dental Designs?
Nearby options include BP gas station and Quick Stop Market, a gas station and convenience store, for fueling up or grabbing quick essentials before or after your visit.
Are there any fitness or recreational facilities near South Holston Dental Designs?
Yes, High Society gym and Pointe Break Performing Arts Company dance school are close by for those interested in sports, fitness, or dance classes.