At our Knoxville, TN dental practice, our primary goal is to help your family achieve and maintain healthy smiles for life. Dr. Jack W. Haney has the education, experience, and expertise necessary to deliver top-tier dental care, and he has been providing our community with oral health services for the last 20 years. Today, he shares five things your family dentist wants you to know.
If you are interested in learning more about the services we offer, contact our practice today. Schedule an appointment by calling 865-693-6886.
#1: Professional cleanings and at-home care are equally important.
True, professional cleanings with your dental hygienist are essential for optimal oral health. But how you care for your teeth between visits is just as important. Oral bacteria begin to repopulate after every cleaning. Therefore, proper brushing and flossing are crucial to keep harmful microbes at bay and protect your teeth and gums from damage. During a routine visit at our practice, your family dentist can demonstrate proper at-home hygiene techniques that will help you maintain a healthy smile.
#2: Pain shouldn’t be your only gage.
While discomfort can certainly be an indicator that something isn’t quite right, the condition has often progressed by the time pain develops. Attending regular dental examinations and cleanings can help your family dentist identify any issues early on and prevent the problem from worsening. This simple commitment can not only keep you out of pain, but it can save you a tremendous amount of time and worry in the future.
#3: Gum health is just as important as the health of your teeth.
Did you know that gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss? Most patients understand the importance of cavity-free teeth, but healthy gums are just as important. Periodontal disease can seep beneath the gums and erode the supporting jawbone. This infection can wreak havoc on your oral and overall health. Gum disease has been linked to more complex health issues, such as diabetes, heart disease, dementia, and stroke, just to name a few. Therefore, when you care for your gums, you are investing in your long-term general wellbeing.
#4: After meals, rinse your mouth.
We know that brushing twice a day can help reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. While cleaning the teeth after every meal would be ideal, it is not always feasible. Your Knoxville family dentist recommends rinsing the mouth out with water after eating. This helps wash away debris and food particles that cause plaque and bacteria.
#5: Quality dental care is important for patients of all ages.
Dental care is vital to your oral and overall health, no matter what your age. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends bringing your child in for his or her first dental visit by age one or after the eruption of the first tooth. Doing so allows your dentist to detect any potential problems before they worsen. Best of all, pediatric dental care helps your child develop healthy habits that will deliver a lifetime of benefits.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Knoxville Family Dentist
If you would like to learn more about the services we offer at our Knoxville, TN dental practice, schedule a consultation with Dr. Haney. He will listen carefully to your oral health concerns and goals and will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. Give us a call at 865-693-6886.
