Tooth Extractions in Clarksville, TN

Tooth extractions can be painful, and it’s important to realize how to care for your extraction site afterward to promote healing. Knowing what to eat and what not to eat is a good place to start. 

Like any kind of dental procedure, you should stick to soft foods and liquids so as not to irritate the extraction site. Soft foods that are easy to consume should be eaten for the first 24 hours after your procedure. After 24 hours, you can ease into more of a normal diet, when you feel comfortable doing so. 

It’s important to try to stick with easy-to-chew foods for the first few days. Some examples include: 

• Yogurt
• Pudding
• Jell-O
• Ice cream
• Applesauce

After the first day, you can try a wider variety of foods:

• Mashed potatoes
• Mashed sweet potatoes
• Scrambled eggs
• Oatmeal
• Pancakes
• Broth-based soups

What Not To Eat

After having a tooth extracted, your body will need time to heal. You should avoid consuming alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours following the surgery. If you are taking any powerful pain medications, you should avoid consuming alcohol until you are no longer on the medications. 

For about a week, it is advised to avoid eating hard, chewy, crunchy, or brittle foods. These could include chips, nuts, and popcorn. 

How To Eat

How you eat your food is equally as important as the types of foods you consume after an extraction. You should try to only chew on the opposite side of your mouth from the treated area. Since you’ll likely be consuming more liquids than solids following the procedure, it might be tempting to use a drinking straw. This is not advisable because the suction of the straw could dislodge the blood clot and lengthen your total healing time. 

Having a tooth extracted is a common procedure that many people will go through in their lifetime. Knowing how to care for your extraction site can speed up the recovery process. If you have any questions about tooth extractions, please call our office at 931-431-0200. 

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Dentures: What Is Your Best Option? 

Many aspects must be considered when choosing which type of dentures you want and require. With three different types of dentures available to you, there are advantages and disadvantages for all. So, let’s go over all your options and figure out which one will suit you best. 

Traditional Dentures

The traditional denture has been used for many centuries. Traditional dentures are no longer considered to be up to the standards of care since dentures have become so mainstream in dentistry. Traditional denture users will have a significant loss of bone and gum support, which will result in facial drooping, sagging skin, and the look of early aging. The following are a few benefits and drawbacks:

Advantages:

• The least expensive of the three types
• Can look nice
• Better than having nothing

Disadvantages:

• Hard to eat with & they move around a lot
• Can feel bulky in your mouth
• Large loss of taste and temperature sensations due to the roof of the mouth being covered
• Needs frequent realignment and repairs

Implant Snap-On Dentures

The most popular choice for people seeking to replace their missing teeth is the implant snap-on denture. Compared to a traditional denture, this option snaps into place and is far more stable, less bulky, and doesn’t cover the roof of your mouth. For simple cleaning, the denture can be taken out. Additionally, the use of implants stops future bone loss, early aging, and facial drooping. The following are the benefits and drawbacks of this form of denture:

Advantages: 

• The most affordable implant option
• Huge upgrade over traditional dentures
• Prevents bone loss and premature aging
• Improves ability to taste things

Disadvantages:

• Still has some movement
• Comes out at night

Implant-Supported Permanent Teeth

Implant-supported dentures are a full set of upper or lower teeth that are permanently attached to dental implants and are screwed in dental bridges. This option is the closest we have to the feel and function of your own teeth. These bridges may not be removed by you, only your dentist. Of all the alternatives, this bridge has the most natural-feeling bite and chewing characteristics. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages:

• Made of strong material
• Natural feel
• Best biting and chewing function
• Stays in the mouth all the time

Disadvantages:

• Can be difficult to clean
• Will require maintenance over time
• Most expensive option

Speaking to your dentist about the best option for you and your lifestyle is important. If you have any more questions about the differences between these options and what the process may look like contact Alpha Dental in Clarksville, TN. We’d be happy to help you regain your smile.

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Enhance Your Smile with SureSmile®: A Comprehensive Guide

SureSmile® has transformed the landscape of orthodontic treatment, providing a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. The clear aligner system enables individuals to improve their smiles without the discomfort often associated with braces. While SureSmile® offers an aesthetically pleasing solution, it’s crucial to consider various factors when choosing orthodontic treatment. Our dentists at Moorehead Dentistry recommend evaluating your situation before making a decision. In this guide, we’ll explore the effectiveness of SureSmile® in addressing specific orthodontic issues.

SureSmile® Treatment for Common Concerns

1. Crooked Teeth

SureSmile® excels in treating crooked teeth, offering a practical solution to align teeth and enhance your smile discreetly.

2. Overbite & Underbite

Addressing both overbites and underbites, SureSmile® can reposition either the top or bottom teeth to achieve proper alignment with the mouth closed.

3. Crossbite

SureSmile® effectively corrects crossbites, ensuring that teeth align correctly when the mouth is closed, preventing misalignments in the back or front teeth.

4. Gaps in Teeth & Crowded Teeth

Whether you have gaps between your teeth or experience crowding, SureSmile® is a versatile solution. It resolves gaps and overcrowding, promoting optimal oral health.

Considerations and Limitations

While SureSmile® is an excellent option for various orthodontic issues, it’s essential to acknowledge its limitations. In some cases, traditional braces may be more suitable, especially for severe orthodontic problems, intrusion, and extrusion. It’s worth noting that SureSmile® has evolved over the years, now capable of addressing more complex situations than before.

To determine if SureSmile® is the right choice for you, we recommend consulting with our experts at one of our three Moorehead Dentistry locations. Contact one of our offices today for personalized guidance on achieving your ideal smile.

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What Are the Pros and Cons of Dental Implants?

In the realm of modern dentistry, dental implant surgery has emerged as a revolutionary solution for replacing missing teeth. Understanding the pros and cons of dental implants is crucial if you’re considering this transformative dental procedure.

Cons of Dental Implants

While dental implants offer remarkable benefits, it’s essential to be aware of potential drawbacks:

• Meeting Requirements: Before undergoing dental implant surgery, meeting specific criteria is necessary. Significant bone loss due to tooth loss may impact the success of the implant. Good overall health is also vital for optimal jawbone recovery.
• Cost Considerations: Although dental implants provide a long-term solution for tooth loss, they may not always be the most cost-effective option. However, the comfort, confidence, and natural feel they offer make them worth the investment.
• Lengthy Procedure: Dental implants are not a quick fix; the process can take several months. From removing an existing damaged tooth to fitting the implant anchor and waiting for healing, the overall procedure requires patience.

Pros of Dental Implants

The advantages of dental implants far outweigh the disadvantages, making them a preferred choice for many:

• Natural Look and Feel: Dental implants closely resemble real teeth, both in appearance and sensation. Once fitted, it’s challenging to distinguish between the replacement tooth and natural teeth. The anchored implants feel as strong as regular teeth.
• Ease of Eating and Chewing: Unlike dentures, dental implants seamlessly integrate with regular teeth when eating and chewing. After the completion of the procedure, you can enjoy a diverse range of foods without concerns.
• Longevity: Dental implants offer a long-lasting tooth replacement solution. While crown replacement may be necessary every 10-15 years, proper care can make the implants last a lifetime.
• Easy Maintenance: Taking care of dental implants is simple – follow the same routine as you would for natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing, regular dental checkups, and a healthy diet contribute to their longevity.
• Prevention of Bone Loss: Dental implants, anchored into the jaw, prevent bone loss. The implant’s screw thread mimics the root of a natural tooth, maintaining the strength of the jaw bone.

In conclusion, the numerous benefits make dental implants an excellent choice for those experiencing tooth loss. If you have questions or require further information, feel free to reach out. We are dedicated to helping our patients look and feel their best, and dental implants are a significant step in achieving that goal. Give us a call for any inquiries!