Yummy Foods for a Healthy Smile

Posted August 29, 2023 by Paris Mountain Dental

Many foods, like sugary drinks and starchy snacks, are poor for your teeth and gums. We recommend prioritizing dietary choices that will benefit your dental health! For example, the following yummy foods help promote a healthy smile:

Strawberries

These bright berries are sweet, juicy, and rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Vitamin C promotes healthy gums and strengthens blood vessels, reducing the risk of gum disease. The natural astringent properties of strawberries can also help remove surface stains from your teeth, enhancing your smile’s brightness.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilling is a popular cooking method, but it’s not only for meats! Try grilling an assortment of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. These vegetables are rich in fiber, which promotes saliva production and helps scrub away plaque from your teeth while you chew.

Dairy Products

Calcium-rich dairy products like low-sugar yogurt, whole-milk cheese, and milk support strong teeth and bones. Dairy products also contain a protein called casein that forms a protective layer on the tooth enamel, shielding it from acid erosion.

Salmon

While calcium is great for the teeth, it won’t matter how much you eat if your body doesn’t have enough vitamin D. Vitamin D is helpful in processing and absorbing calcium. Salmon is one of the best foods for getting vitamin D. The healthy fats from salmon also help prevent oral disease.

Pears

Similar to vegetables like celery, pears are fibrous and can easily stimulate saliva production. Pears also have acid-neutralizing effects in your mouth. Add sliced pears to a salad or eat them on the go!

Schedule a Dental Appointment in Travelers Rest, SC

While what you eat is important, how you care for your smile is even more important! Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles. And don’t forget to schedule routine dental appointments for you and the whole family at Paris Mountain Dental!

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Debunking Myths about Fluoride

Posted July 31, 2023 by Paris Mountain Dental

Fluoride is highly recommended due to its protective and strengthening action on the teeth. Fluoride, a natural mineral, helps prevent dental cavities. Though effective in preventing decay, there are several misconceptions surrounding fluoride. Below, we debunk 3 myths about fluoride to help you learn about its benefits!

Myth 1 – Fluoride Is Harmful to Health

It is likely that you have heard fluoride is harmful to health. However, like everything else, excess use is the key to the equation. The American Dental Association and many other dental organizations endorse the use of fluoride in dental care.

The recommended amount of fluoride in toothpaste and drinking water is carefully regulated to ensure its benefits while avoiding any potential risks. At our dental office, we carefully monitor and measure fluoride treatments.

Myth 2 – Fluoride is Only Beneficial for Children

Another common myth is that fluoride is only necessary for children. While it is true that fluoride is essential for developing teeth, it continues to offer benefits throughout our lives.

Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps to repair the early stages of tooth decay in adults. It also aids in remineralization, reversing the damage caused by acid attacks on the teeth. Many kinds of toothpaste have fluoride, which people of all ages use and benefit from!

Myth 3 – All Water Sources Contain Sufficient Fluoride

Some people believe that fluoride is naturally present in all water sources, eliminating the need for additional fluoride treatments or products. However, this is not always the case.

While some communities have naturally occurring fluoride in their water supply, many do not. By visiting a dentist near you, you can discover whether or not your water supply contains fluoride. If it does not, then fluoride treatments can be highly beneficial.

Preventive Dental Treatments in Travelers Rest, SC

The addition of fluoride to dental products, water, and dental treatments is highly beneficial. By learning about fluoride, you’re learning about how to aid and protect your oral health. If you’re interested in fluoride treatment, sealants, or other ways to maintain a healthy smile for years to come, contact our dental office in Travelers Rest, SC!

Healthy Oral Habits to Teach Your Kids

Posted June 28, 2023 by Paris Mountain Dental

Here are several oral health habits you should help your child establish when they are young!

Brush Teeth Twice a Day & Floss Daily

One of the most beneficial habits for a child to learn early on is to brush their teeth twice a day, once in the morning when they wake up and again at night before bed. Encourage them to brush in gentle, circular strokes across all surfaces of their teeth for two minutes. Babies, toddlers, and young children will need their parents to brush their teeth for them. Depending on their level of maturity, physical development, and any special needs, your child may be ready to brush their own teeth with supervision around age 5-7. As soon as they have 2 teeth touching, your child will benefit from daily flossing.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

Guide your child to develop a positive relationship with food. Allow them to learn how to consume sweets in moderation. Expose them to a balanced variety of foods. Some of our favorite healthy snack options for kids include:

Celery and apple slices with nut butter

Cheese sticks

Whole fresh fruits, like oranges, apples, berries, and kiwi

Whole-grain toast with avocado

Egg quesadillas

Unsweetened applesauce with cinnamon

Trail mix

Fresh vegetables with hummus or plant-based ranch

Yogurt parfaits

Smoothies

Drink Plenty of Water

Encourage your child to drink plenty of water every day, especially instead of soda or soda. Water helps give the body energy, reduces cravings, and prevents dry mouth.

Regularly Visit the Dentist

We understand that dental visits can feel scary and intimidating for kids. However, becoming accustomed to routine dental visits early on means they will be more likely to continue these visits, which will contribute to good oral health through adulthood. Finding a compassionate dentist who can accommodate your child’s unique needs and appreciate their personality will show your child that going to the dentist can be a positive experience!

At Paris Mountain Dental, we provide comprehensive dental services and accept patients of all ages. We also offer family block scheduling so we can schedule family members at the same appointment time or back-to-back for your convenience. Please contact us to schedule an appointment for your child!

How to Be Prepared for a Dental Emergency

Posted May 25, 2023 by Paris Mountain Dental

Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them. A dental emergency could involve a variety of issues, such as accidentally chipping or breaking a tooth, losing a filling or dental crown, breaking your dentures, experiencing sudden tooth pain, or getting a permanent tooth knocked out. Being prepared for a dental emergency can help you remain calm and resolve the problem as quickly as possible. Follow these tips so you’ll know what to do the next time you require urgent dental care.

Stock an At-Home Emergency Kit

Have a kit of dental emergency supplies in your home in case you experience an oral injury. Helpful items include gauze, disposable gloves, and over-the-counter pain medication, as well as a small container with a lid in which you can keep a knocked-out tooth safe and clean. Additionally, keep an ice pack or cold compress in the freezer to use if you’re experiencing swelling of the mouth or jaw.

Keep Your Dentist’s Contact Information Handy

You’ll want to call your dentist at the first sign of an emergency. Time is of the essence during an emergency, especially if you knock out a permanent tooth. Be sure you have your dentist’s phone number saved in your phone contacts or posted on your refrigerator.

At Paris Mountain Dental, we understand that dental emergencies can be painful and alarming. Our team will be able to assess your situation and provide guidance over the phone until you can get to our office for a proper exam. We make every effort to get you in for treatment as soon as possible by leaving room in our schedule to accommodate same-day emergency appointments.

We hope you choose our Travelers Rest office as your oral healthcare provider for both general dental care and emergency care. Please contact us today with any questions or to schedule an appointment!

Questions to Ask Your Travelers Rest Dentist

Posted April 21, 2023 by Paris Mountain Dental

Maybe you’re new to Travelers Rest (if so, welcome!) or maybe you just haven’t visited a dental office in a while. Whatever the case may be, it’s possible you feel a little unsure about what to ask your dentist at your upcoming appointment. There’s no need to stress! It’s not a test that you need to come prepared for. Your dental team will guide you through the process and be happy to answer any questions you have.

Here are a few questions that you might find helpful to ask your Travelers Rest dentist the next time you see them:

How Can I Improve My Oral Health?

Your dental team can offer up some personalized tips to make your oral health habits even better. If they don’t tell you already, ask them how you can improve your oral health based on what they find during your cleaning and checkup. They may give you pointers on flossing technique or point out specific areas of your mouth you should focus more on while brushing. You could even ask them for specific toothpaste or toothbrush recommendations.

I Am Having a Dental Issue… How Can I Fix It?

Whether you’re experiencing some sort of dental pain or there’s an aesthetic issue that annoys you everytime you see pictures or reflections of your smile, your Travelers Rest dentist can help. Let them know what you’d like to improve or change, and they can recommend some treatments to you based on their suite of dental services.

What Are My Payment Options?

Before going to a dentist for the first time, check what kind of financial options they have. You’ll find that different dental practices accept various kinds of payment methods. Your dental team should be happy to help you figure out which payment method works the best for your specific budget.

Come Visit Us!

If you’re still looking for a dentist in Travelers Rest, we invite you to check out Paris Mountain Dental. We’d be delighted to welcome your whole family into our practice and to care for your smile throughout the years.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

Posted March 25, 2023 by Paris Mountain Dental

Dental sealants are a preventive treatment that can help reduce the chances of cavities developing. Sealants smooth out the uneven pits and grooves that can frequently trap food particles. Applying these thin, protective coatings on the chewing surface of your back teeth is a quick, painless procedure.

Whether you already have sealants or are considering getting them, you may be wondering how long they last. The short answer is that, when properly cared for, dental sealants can last for up to ten years!

How to Get the Most Out of Your Dental Sealants

While sealants are most effective in the first two years after they are placed, they can protect your teeth for long after that if you take the right steps.

The best way to increase the lifespan of your sealants is to practice proper oral hygiene by brushing and flossing every day. It’s also important to come in for routine checkups twice a year, during which our team will make sure that your sealants are still in good condition.

When sealants wear down, it’s possible for bacteria to lodge underneath the protective coating, resulting in cavities. Therefore, you’ll want to avoid any activity that may weaken your sealants, such as chewing on ice or hard candy.

If you clench your jaw or grind your teeth, the sealants on your molars could wear down more quickly. We recommend wearing a custom nightguard to prevent tooth erosion and to allow your sealants to last longer.

Dental Sealants in Travelers Rest, SC

Our friendly team at Paris Mountain Dental offers comprehensive oral healthcare, including sealants and other preventive dental care. Please contact us today to schedule an appointment! Our office is open Mondays by appointment, and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 8 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM.

Do Dental Implants Last Forever?

Posted February 24, 2023 by Paris Mountain Dental

If you are missing teeth, you have likely experienced associated changes with your bite, speech, diet, and confidence, and a decreased quality of life. But it doesn’t always have to be that way. Replacing missing teeth can improve oral function and restore your smile’s appearance! Dental implants, for example, are a fantastic long-term tooth replacement solution.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are one of the most secure, natural-looking restorative dentistry procedures available. An implant is a biocompatible dental screw that is surgically placed into the jawbone. Once the area is healed and fused with your jaw, an artificial tooth is attached to its top to restore full function and appearance.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

While the implant itself is permanent as long as you maintain good gum health, its accompanying dental crown will experience wear and tear and may need replacement within 15-20 years. But thanks to our advanced dental technology, we can quickly craft a replacement crown so you can continue enjoying a complete smile.

How to Prolong the Life of Your Dental Implants

A dental implant can last for many years when it is cared for with daily brushing and flossing, routine dental cleanings, and a balanced diet. Besides maintaining these habits, the following tips can also help you promote dental implant longevity:

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush when brushing

Wear a nightguard if you grind and clench your teeth

Wear an athletic mouthguard during sports

Avoid chewing on ice, nails, pencils, pens, and other objects

Avoid tobacco products

Dental Implants in Travelers Rest, SC

A dental implant may be the perfect solution for the gap in your smile. Contact our team at Paris Mountain Dental in Travelers Rest, SC, to learn more about restoring your smile with dental implants. We would be delighted to hear from you.

Dental implant image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

Will Clear Aligners Straighten My Smile?

Posted January 23, 2023 by Paris Mountain Dental

Misaligned, crooked teeth can make you feel self-conscious and make it harder to keep your teeth clean. Thus, straightening your smile will not only boost your confidence, but improve your oral health too! Nowadays, many patients can choose between braces and clear aligners to address their misalignment.

What Are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are custom mouth trays that use gentle pressure to straighten your teeth. You switch out the aligners every two weeks or so until treatment is complete. Because the trays are made from smooth plastic, they’re more comfortable than traditional metal braces. They’re also removable! You take them out to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush and floss your teeth.

Who Can Get Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners can fix mild to moderate alignment issues. You may need the power of traditional braces if you have a more complicated case. Additionally, you need to have good oral health, be responsible enough to keep track of your aligners, and commit to wearing your aligners for 20-22 hours a day and keeping them and your teeth clean. The best way to know if you’re a good candidate for this orthodontic treatment is to schedule an appointment with a dentist that is specially-trained in clear aligner therapy!

How Long Do Clear Aligners Take to Straighten Teeth?

While each case is different, clear aligner treatment typically takes about a year for most patients. The process requires checkups every several weeks. Keep in mind that treatment will be prolonged if you do not wear your aligners enough each day.

Clear Aligners in Traveler’s Rest, SC

Clear aligners effectively and discreetly straighten crooked teeth. Unlike traditional braces, they’re removable and not very noticeable. If your dental insurance does not cover the cost, we accept CareCredit and offer a discount on clear aligners with enrollment in our dental savings plan. Please contact us today to set up a consultation at Paris Mountain Dental!

How to Floss Your Teeth

Posted December 29, 2022 by Paris Mountain Dental

When you visit our office, you will likely be reminded to brush and floss your teeth every day to help prevent cavities and gum disease. If you’re not sure how to floss your teeth properly, these tips can help!

Tips to Floss Properly

1) Break off about 18 inches of floss. Wrap a majority of your floss in one of your middle fingers and the rest around the same finger on the opposite hand.

2) Hold the floss between the thumbs and pointer fingers. This hold is how you will guide the floss.

3) Gently guide the floss between each tooth. Some teeth may require more force than others.

4) When the floss is inserted between teeth, curve it into a C shape and slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth on each side.

5) Gently guide the floss up and down. Repeat for every tooth surface with a new section of the string of floss.

Why Is It Important to Floss Properly?

Daily brushing and flossing will not be painful or cause bleeding for healthy teeth and gums. However, infrequent or improper flossing can cause bleeding gums. Flossing too hard can damage the tissue between your teeth. Being inconsistent or too gentle will not effectively get food particles and bacteria out, thus increasing your risk of bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease.

What to Use to Floss Your Teeth

You’ll likely notice many different dental products available in the oral care aisle at the store. These products may include several types of floss, such as traditional string floss, dental picks, and water flossers. Using a combination of these products will likely yield the best results! Choosing a product with the ADA Seal of Acceptance indicates it will be safe and effective. You can also consult with our team for personalized recommendations.

Preventive Care in Travelers Rest, SC

Brushing and flossing are vital parts of good at-home preventive care. Additionally, you should schedule routine cleanings and exams at our office. We offer comprehensive oral healthcare services. Please contact us today to schedule a visit!

Is It Safe to Pull Your Own Tooth?

Posted November 20, 2022 by Paris Mountain Dental

There are so many DIY solutions floating around on the internet. From how to create your own household cleaner to repairing certain things around the home without calling in outside help, some DIY recommendations are more manageable and helpful than others. One dental-related DIY job we’ve heard about is to perform a tooth extraction at home.

The Risks of Pulling Your Own Teeth

If your tooth is causing you agonizing pain, you shouldn’t remove it yourself unless you are experiencing some sort of bizarre scenario, like Tom Hanks stranded on an island in the movie Cast Away. If you have reasonable access to a reputable dentist, you should seek care for severe tooth pain as soon as possible.

Pulling a permanent tooth at home will be extremely painful and will significantly increase your chance of getting an infection. You don’t have the necessary tools and medication to properly numb and clean the area like we do in our dental office. In your effort to remove the tooth, you could wind up breaking the tooth (making it more difficult to remove) or damaging the surrounding teeth, or even your jawbone. Now instead of just one problematic tooth, you have even more dental issues!

Pulling Out Baby Teeth

So what about pulling out baby teeth? Maybe when you were a kid you remember your sibling, parent, or grandparent yanking out your loose teeth and now you want to help your child with their wiggly teeth. Regardless of whether you survived the experience as a child, it’s not a good idea to try and pull out your child’s baby tooth. Pulling a loose baby tooth can be painful and cause unnecessary bleeding and trauma to your child’s mouth.

Instead, encourage your child to wiggle their baby tooth with a clean finger or tissue. Baby teeth will fall out when they are ready. Something as simple as biting down on an apple can nudge them out completely when they are very loose. If you’re concerned that your child’s baby tooth isn’t falling out, consult with our team.

Your Trusted Dentist in Travelers Rest, SC

Need a gentle tooth extraction or some extra dental advice? Contact our dental office in Travelers Rest today! Paris Mountain Dental is here for all of your family’s smile needs.