February 14, 2024February 14, 2024 by PracticeCafe

dry mouth remedies, dry mouth risks, causes of dry mouth

Often, we don’t realize the value of something until it’s gone, and this couldn’t be truer for saliva. Imagine your mouth feeling as parched as a desert, or like you’ve just eaten a handful of Saltine crackers – that’s dry mouth for you. While it’s normal to experience this occasionally, persistent dryness, not related to the heat or hydration levels, signals xerostomia. This condition is more than a mere annoyance; it can seriously affect your oral health, and increase your risk of cavities and gum disease.

In this blog, we explore the causes of dry mouth and discover simple remedies to keep your smile comfortable and healthy.

Causes of Dry Mouth

Several factors contribute to the discomfort of dry mouth. Medications, dehydration, smoking, and certain medical conditions can reduce saliva flow. Even stress and anxiety can play a role. Identifying the underlying cause is the first step toward effective management.

Easy Remedies for Xerostomia

Stay Hydrated:One of the simplest remedies for dry mouth is staying hydrated. Sip water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugary beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Chew Sugar-Free Gum or Candy: Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candy stimulates saliva production, providing a natural way to combat dry mouth. Look for products sweetened with xylitol for added oral health benefits.

Limit Caffeine and Tobacco: Reducing caffeine intake and quitting smoking can significantly improve dry mouth symptoms. Reducing caffeine and quitting smoking are tough, but it’s like hitting a reset button for your mouth’s moisture levels. These lifestyle adjustments not only benefit your overall health but also contribute to a more comfortable oral environment.

Choose Moisturizing Mouthwash: Opt for an alcohol-free, moisturizing mouthwash, like Biotene or CloSYS, to keep your mouth hydrated. Rinse as directed, and consider carrying a travel-sized bottle for on-the-go relief.

Use a Humidifier: If dry air is exacerbating your symptoms, using a humidifier in your living space can add moisture to the air, providing relief for your mouth.

Regular Dental Check-ups: Keep up with regular dental check-ups, and inform our team about any persistent dry mouth symptoms. They can offer tailored advice and may recommend saliva substitutes or other interventions if needed.

Schedule an Appointment at Hermitage Dental Group

At Hermitage Dental Group, we understand the importance of oral comfort, and our team is here to support you on your journey to a healthier, hydrated smile. If you have concerns about xerostomia or any other oral health issues, schedule a visit with our friendly team at Hermitage Dental Group for personalized guidance!

January 16, 2024January 16, 2024 by PracticeCafe

pregnancy and gingivitis, a pregnant woman in a sweater forming a heart with her hands on her belly. original public domain image from wikimedia commons

Let’s face it, pregnancy is a rollercoaster of excitement and preparation, but amidst all the joy and chaos, your oral health needs a front-row seat. Gingivitis – that pesky gum disease – can be a sneaky troublemaker for both you and your little one. So, let’s dive into understanding the risks and embrace preventive strategies for a healthy pregnancy journey.

Pregnancy and Gingivitis: Hormones and Gums in a Tango

Pregnancy hormones, especially progesterone, can turn your gums into drama queens, reacting wildly to plaque and potentially setting the stage for gingivitis. No previous gum problems? It’s still super important to be your own oral health advocate during these months.

The Sneaky Risks of Ignoring Gingivitis When Expecting

Leaving gingivitis unchecked during pregnancy isn’t just about avoiding swollen gums. It’s a bigger deal than that. Studies whisper about links between untreated gum disease and not-so-great things like preterm birth and low birth weight. The bacteria from gingivitis might enter the bloodstream, sparking an inflammatory reaction that could affect your growing bundle of joy.

Oral Hygiene for the Win: Keeping Gingivitis at Bay

Here’s your game plan: tackle gingivitis with the might of a gentle yet effective oral care routine. Think of fluoride toothpaste as your shield, floss as your trusty sidekick, and antiseptic mouthwash as your secret weapon. And hey, those dental check-ups? We know your schedule is packed with prenatal appointments, but visiting the dentist is a key part of your pregnancy wellness journey.

Don’t forget, your diet is your ally too! Channel your inner health guru with vitamin-rich foods, especially vitamin C, to keep those gums in tip-top shape. And, let’s try to keep those sugary temptations at bay – your teeth will thank you!

Personalized Dental Care in Hermitage, TN

Now that you’re clued in on the gingivitis-pregnancy link, it’s time to take charge. By adopting preventive measures and keeping up with regular dental visits, pregnant women can significantly enhance their chances of a healthier pregnancy for themselves and their babies. Book an appointment with our team and take a confident step towards a happy, healthy pregnancy smile!

December 23, 2023November 30, 2023 by PracticeCafe

Brunette woman smiles while wearing a red Santa hat against a gray background

As the year draws to a close, it’s time to take stock of your health. Your dental care should not be overlooked. Planning year-end dental treatments can not only contribute to a healthy smile but also allows you to make the most of your dental benefits before they reset in the new year. Here is some guidance in planning your year-end dental treatments!

Check Your Dental Benefits

Many dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year, resetting benefits at the beginning of the new year. Check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and maximize your benefits while they are still available.

Hermitage Dental Group is in-network with several providers. Check our financial page for a list. Keep in mind that this information can change so call our office to verify we are still in-network!

Schedule a Comprehensive Checkup

Did you know most dental insurance plans cover two exams and cleanings each year? These comprehensive checkups allow your dentist to assess your overall oral health, identify any issues, and create a personalized treatment plan. Addressing concerns promptly can prevent them from escalating into more significant problems!

Accommodate Healing Time

If your treatment plan involves procedures with a recovery period, plan accordingly. Factor in healing time to ensure you can comfortably resume your regular activities, especially if you have holiday plans.

Schedule Around Busy Periods

Be mindful of the holiday season’s demands and schedule dental appointments to minimize disruption to your festive plans. Booking as early as possible helps secure convenient time slots and ensures you don’t miss out on essential year-end dental care.

Schedule Your Dental Appointment at Hermitage Dental Group

Prioritizing your year-end dental treatments involves strategic planning to optimize your oral health and maximize your insurance benefits. When you follow these tips, you can step into the new year with a healthy, confident smile. Contact us today to schedule your end-of-year visit at Hermitage Dental Group!

February 10, 2022January 31, 2022 by PracticeCafe

Dark-haired man smiles while pointing to his teeth because they are healthy and strong

At Hermitage Dental Group, we’re committed to helping our patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles that will last a lifetime. Many times, our patients ask us for tips on how they can achieve a healthier smile easily, so we’re sharing our top three tips for a healthier smile below.

Daily Brush & Floss Your Teeth

This tip might sound straightforward but many people don’t follow the proper brushing technique and/or skip flossing altogether. We can’t stress how important it is to brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day (using small, gentle circles as you brush) and to thoroughly floss every day to remove bacteria and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline. Doing so will work wonders for your smile.

Maintain a Tooth-Friendly Diet

Candy, pastries, cookies, alcohol, coffee, black tea, chips, white bread, and fruit juice can be damaging to your tooth enamel, which makes it easier to develop cavities and decay. Whenever possible, opt for water, whole fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber, and protein-rich foods to support a healthier smile.

Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year

Schedule twice yearly professional dental cleaning and examinations to make sure your teeth and gums remain healthy and to address any issues you may have experienced between appointments. Hermitage Dental Group offers extensive dental services, including preventive, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency treatments to suit the needs of all patients under one roof. We also offer dental sedation, sleep apnea treatment, and treatment for TMJ dysfunction.

Affordable Dentistry in Hermitage, TN

Looking to improve the health of your smile in 2022? We’d love to help you reach your smile goals! Our friendly team can help develop a custom treatment plan so you can improve your smile’s appearance and health at an affordable price. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

May 25, 2021April 23, 2021 by PracticeCafe

Drawing of a brunette woman with dental anxiety with her head in her hands against a blue background

Do you experience dental anxiety? Our team at Hermitage Dental Group understands how debilitating anxiety can be. We love helping patients overcome their fears and have positive experiences at the dentist. In this blog post, we suggest tips to reduce your dental anxiety!

Help Yourself Stay Relaxed

Make the necessary preparations to keep your visit as easy and stress-free as possible. For example, eat (then brush your teeth) so you aren’t hangry and wear comfortable clothing.

Additionally, give yourself ample time to get to your appointment. Head over to our office early so you won’t feel rushed if you get caught in traffic or need to stop for gas.

If you can schedule your visits on days when your schedule is a little lighter and you have less to worry about, that can help ease anxiety.

We also recommend that patients plan on doing something fun after their dental visits that they can look forward to, even if it’s something small like going on a walk or watching your favorite movie.

Utilize Dental Sedation

Dental sedation is an excellent way to reduce dental anxiety safely and effectively. Consult with our team to determine the best form of sedation for your unique needs!

For patients who have mild to moderate dental anxiety or want a sedation option that will wear off quickly, we recommend nitrous oxide (also called laughing gas). This is inhaled via a nose mask.

Oral conscious sedation is a prescribed pill that induces an even deeper state of relaxation. This will make you drowsy and less aware of your surroundings, but you can still respond to questions.

Our office also provides IV sedation. This medication is administered directly into your bloodstream to put you into a relaxed, sleep-like state.

Communicate with Our Team

Whether you have recently developed dental anxiety or it’s something you’ve dealt with for as long as you can remember, we don’t want you to suffer in silence. Sometimes asking a few questions about a treatment can help to make it far less scary and intimidating.

Our team would be happy to go over your treatment with you so you’ll know what to expect. By asking questions and being open about your fears, our friendly and compassionate team can work with you to reduce your anxious thoughts and feelings.