Set Your 2021 Intentions!

It's New Year's Eve, and Access Dental and Dentures is so happy to wish you and yours a very happy new year! As we say goodbye to 2020, you may be thinking about setting some New Year's resolutions to help enjoy a healthier, happier year in 2021. Access Dental and Dentures always puts your health first, and we are here to share our tips for creating attainable resolutions that you can stick to well into the new year. Keep reading to get inspired! 

Balanced Diet

More and more, research is showing that maintaining a balanced diet is the best way to lose weight, keep it off, and enjoy a healthier lifestyle. You don't necessarily need to go on a strict cleanse in the new year. Having a healthy diet is more about balance and making more "right" choices than "wrong" choices. Sometimes starting the New Year off with a strict diet can be demoralizing if it doesn't work out. Instead, simply start out by making healthier choices. Trade your breakfast doughnut for a bowl of frozen berries and plain Greek yogurt. As the frozen berries thaw, their juices will naturally sweeten the yogurt for less calories! The vitamins and protein could also help improve your health in addition to removing that added sugar from your diet. Lessening added sugar is also good for your dental health.

Drink More Water

Water is incredibly important to your health for many reasons. While there is water-content in many food types, water is clearly the best way to stay hydrated. Staying hydrated is important for your immune system, cognitive function, and overall wellbeing. Drinking more water can also help you maintain a healthier diet by filling up your stomach to feel less hungry.

Drinking water is also very good for your oral health. It can keep your mouth cleaner from bacteria and debris by rinsing away harmful materials that would otherwise build up. Most water is also fortified by fluoride and other minerals that are helpful to your teeth. Fluoride helps strengthen your enamel. So drink up for a healthier and happier smile!

Improve Your Dental Routine

Dental health is important for overall health as well, so keeping a good routine is important! Make sure you are brushing at least twice a day. This helps remove bad breath in the morning and clean your teeth of bacteria and food particles accumulated throughout the day every night.

It is also a good idea to rinse your mouth after each meal to help free pieces of food from in between your teeth so they aren't sitting there all day and causing damage. Carrying a travel-sized mouthwash could also be very helpful in keeping your teeth clean and fresh all day.

Flossing is another daily habit that you should adopt if you haven't already. Flossing removes debris that gets stuck between your teeth and can't be removed with just a simple mouth rinse. This is important because it prevents inflammation and bacteria growth that could damage teeth and make you sick.

Best Missouri Dentist

Stay healthy, happy, and confident in 2021 with attainable goals! As you work to improve your health each and every day, remember that you have an ally - Access Dental and Dentures. We have the best dental clinics in southern Missouri, with several convenient locations and incredible quality and service. Give us a call to schedule your next appointment: 1-877-DENTIST. We can't wait to help you!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Diets & Dental Health - How are They Connected?

Before you pick a diet for the New Year, make sure to consider all of the factors, including how it will affect your dental health. There are a lot of popular diets out there and each of them can affect your dental health differently. Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist in southern Missouri and we are here to help you sort through your diet options and how they can affect you. Keep reading to learn more!  

Dairy-Free Diets

A few good examples of popular dairy-free diets are Paleo and Whole30. The Paleo diet encourages participants to eat meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, herbs, spices, healthy fats, and oils. People on this diet are also supposed to avoid processed foods, sugar, soft drinks, grains, dairy products, legumes, artificial sweeteners, vegetable oils, margarine, and trans fats. Whole 30 abides by five major rules: No added sugar, no alcohol, no grains, no legumes, and no dairy. Most of these items can be good to avoid, but not always.

Dairy is often considered beneficial for bones and teeth due to its calcium content. Until recently, all dairy was thought to have the same effect on teeth. The Academy of General Dentistry published a study that indicates cheese could actually have anti-cavity properties. It does this by reducing the level of acidity in your mouth and increasing saliva production! Check out the research in Science Daily here: (https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/06/130605130118.htm).

Low Carb Diets

One of the most popular diets in recent years has been the Low-Carb Diet. You may have heard of "Keto", which at its core is a low or no-carb diet. The idea of these diets is to optimize your body to burn fat by reducing or eliminating carbs. This diet could also reduce your folic acid and fiber intake, though, if you are not careful to replace grains with a high volume of leafy greens and beans.

These diets can be detrimental to your oral health because of the elimination of fruits. Fruits are considered carbs on these diets because of their natural sugar content, so they are either not allowed or limited on almost all Low-Carb Diets. But fruits can be helpful to your oral health! Particularly fruits like apples, pears, and watermelon. These fruits have higher water content and cause you to salivate more when eating them. Saliva production is incredibly important to keep your mouth hydrated and free of bacteria. If your choice is between a piece of low-carb pie and an apple, the higher-carb apple may be a healthier choice for your teeth.

Liquid Cleanses

Some people like to start the new year off with a power punch to their health journey. Liquid and juice diets can be very effective for rapid weight loss, but their merits are often debated in the medical community. It can be difficult to get the nutrients you need from fluids alone, and the loss of fiber and roughage in your diet could cause stomach issues.

A liquid diet could also be harmful to your dental health. Crunchy health foods like carrots and apples can help reduce the buildup of plaque by literally pushing it off your teeth. Liquid diets can also be acidic and high in sugar because juices and smoothies tend to be what people on this diet grab first.

Ask Your Dentist

Always remember, you should consult with your doctor before making a drastic change in your daily diet. As the best dentist in the Springfield area, Access Dental and Dentures is here to help your dental health be as good as possible. Whether you are looking to start a new diet or just want to boost your oral health in 2021, we are here for you. Give us a call to set up an appointment and learn more about how to lead a healthier life. We are here for you!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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The Professional Whitening Difference

Looking for a solution to yellow, dull teeth? Before you head to the drug store and grab any old whitening product, keep reading and find out how professional teeth whitening can make the biggest difference while also keep your teeth safe and healthy. Access Dental and Dentures has the best dental clinics in southern Missouri, and we are here for you with all the information you need to safely whiten your teeth this season. 

Custom Whitening Tray

This is probably the best perk of getting your teeth professionally whitened! Drug store whiteners have to be painted on or stuck on as a slippery strip of plastic that never seems to stay put. At Access Dental and Dentures, we fit the whitening tray to your teeth specifically. You can come into our office and get a custom impression made of your teeth and we'll design a whitening tray to perfectly fit your unique smile! This can help ensure all of your teeth are getting the proper coverage of the whitening agent when you do whitening sessions.

Complete Coverage

Our whitening treatments create a brighter white on every part of your teeth. The complete coverage of our whitening trays offers the ideal shade of lightener for your entire smile. With drug store brands, you can usually only get your front teeth, which can look strange any time your other teeth are visible. Smile big and laugh freely with a professional whitening from Access Dental!

You Control the Shade

Access Dental has at-home treatment options so that you can perform the whitening session as often as you'd like until you achieve the results you are looking for. Our dentists will advise you on the proper use and frequency of the treatment. This allows you to safely whiten to the shade you're looking for. Drugstore brands could bleach your teeth too white in just one sitting, causing damage to your enamel that results in pain and sensitivity.

Professional Strength

Our whitening agent is a professional grade so that you can achieve fast results. It can help you gain and maintain the shade of white you want. Over-the-counter products can cause damage to your teeth due to the cheaply made ingredients. Or, they can have a hard time getting your teeth white enough because the whitening agent is too weak. Easily whiten your teeth and save time with a professional whitening.

Convenience!

Access Dental and Dentures has several locations throughout Southern Missouri where you can create your own unique whitening tray impressions. Once you have your personal tray, you can perform the whitening treatments in the convenience of your own home! It's the ultimate way to conveniently get your teeth whitened with a professional treatment.

Boost Confidence

When you are more comfortable with a bright white smile, you can feel more confidence overall! Whitening your teeth professionally is a great way to increase your self-esteem. You can also feel more confident in a professional whitening with Access Dental and Dentures because we know teeth better than anyone. We can make sure they stay healthy and strong throughout the whitening process.

Best Professional Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is something that a lot of people want in order to feel more confident in their smile, but a lot of people make the risky choice of trying to do it with drug store strips, paste, trays, etc. Work with Access Dental and Dentures to get the smile of your dreams and to promote your dental health while whitening your teeth. Give us a call to schedule an appointment! 

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Dental Health & Pregnancy

Are you expecting a new addition to the family? Access Dental and Dentures has the best dental clinics in southern Missouri, and we are here to help you navigate your dental health during your pregnancy. There are a lot of things you should keep in mind and consider about your teeth, gums, and mouth when you are expecting a baby. Keep reading to learn more about how dental health changes during pregnancy and how you can take better care of yourself! 

Avoid Infection 

When you are pregnant, your body can have a harder time fighting off infection. This is true across the board. While you may be focused on not contracting a cold or stomach bug, it is important to also remember your mouth and teeth. Your body could be struggling with fighting off bacteria and plaque buildup while pregnant. This additional buildup is bad news for your teeth and can cause cavities to occur more quickly. Pay close attention to your oral health during pregnancy to help ensure no serious infections or decay occurs.

Mouth Tumors?

There is a strange phenomenon that can occur with pregnancy called pregnancy tumors. These growths occur under the skin of your mouth and are cause by excess plaque. Help prevent these inconvenient tumors by keeping your mouth clean with diligent dental habits.

Gum Inflammation

During pregnancy, it is common for mothers to suffer from gum inflammation. This is most common during the second trimester. Your gums could experience tenderness, swelling, and even bleeding. It is important to take special care when choosing a tooth brush that is soft bristled to prevent further aggravation of your sensitive gums. If it lasts for an extended period of time or hinders your daily life, it might be time to make an appointment with your local dentist to see if something more serious is happening.

When Baby Comes

Infant oral care is very important. Even though your little one won’t have teeth when they first arrive, it is important to keep their mouth clean and help them start getting used to a good oral health routine early. At first, simply use a clean washcloth or baby toothbrush to wipe their gums. This will help remove milk residue that could be lingering in their mouths. 

As soon as teeth appear, start using a toothbrush during their daily routine. Start by simply brushing away food particles with the toothbrush and water. When your child is a little more advanced, you can add toothpaste to the routine. (Start with a child-friendly toothpaste until they get used to not swallowing it.) 

The age of two is about the time your child should start visiting the dentist to make sure all their teeth are coming in well and there are no concerning issues.

Best Dentist Southern Missouri

If you are expecting a baby and want to know more about how to take care of your teeth during your pregnancy, don't hesitate to give us a call! As the best dentist in the Springfield area, our team of dental professionals are here to help you stay healthy and confident. We can't wait to help you!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Christmas Gifts with Dental Care in Mind

Looking for a unique gift this year for your Christmas lists? Access Dental and Dentures has some great ideas to help inspire you this year. As the best dentists in southern Missouri, we care about people's health and happiness, and we believe that a great dental care routine is an important part of that. Keep reading to hear our gift ideas that can help keep your family and friends healthier this year. 

Re-Usable Straws

While this may not seem related to dental care at first glance, using a straw when drinking certain beverages can help protect your teeth from exposure to damaging chemicals. Sugary, acidic, or staining drinks won't be in contact with your teeth as much if you use a straw. As an added bonus, re-usable straws are helpful to the environment by eliminating waste from disposable straws!

Toothbrush Sanitizer

To help keep your gift recipient's toothbrush clean and free from bacteria, you could buy them a toothbrush sanitizer. These handy tools use ultra-violet light to kill bacteria that could otherwise grow in the bristles of the toothbrush. You can find these devices in large models you keep in your home bathroom or in small portable models that are battery-powered.

Electric Toothbrush

An electric toothbrush could be the perfect gift this season! Electric brushes help take some of the work out of brushing your teeth. While it's not a labor-intensive activity, the automatic brushing from the electric toothbrush helps keep your teeth clean by ensuring your teeth are getting enough cleaning action. Some electric toothbrushes even have timers letting you know when to switch sides.

A great, affordable electric toothbrush on the market right now is Quip. Quip is not just an electric toothbrush, it is also a subscription service that can help keep your teeth cleaner than a standard disposable brush. The service starts with a Quip brush and brush holder and sends replacement heads in the mail so you never have to think about when to buy a new toothbrush. What a great idea!

Water Pick

These are becoming more popular, and for good reason! These devices are like little power washers that are gentle enough for your teeth. Water picks spray pressurized water, allowing you to thoroughly clean around your teeth for a healthy, chemical-free cleaning technique. There are several different kinds on the market, some very high-end! Surprise your gift recipient with a high-quality water pick this season for incredible health benefits they can enjoy for a long time to come.

Dog Flossing Toys

If your Secret Santa is a pet owner, a dog flossing toy could be a great gift! Dogs need dental care to stay healthy, just like we do. If plaque and tartar build up too much on their teeth, it can cause gum disease and possibly a life-threatening, system-wide infection. Realizing this problem, several inventors came up with creative toys to help keep dogs' teeth clean.

These toys are designed with rubber bristles that gently clean dogs' teeth while they simply enjoy playing with the toy. Some of them even have places to add dog-safe toothpaste with flavoring that will make your gift recipient's dog love it even more!

Best Missouri Dentist

Christmas is just three weeks away! Get the special people in your life gifts that they will love using day after day. Or maybe even get a few of these great items for yourself! Taking care of your dental health is important, and our team is here to help you. As the best dentist in the Springfield area, Access Dental and Dentures is here for you! 

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Don't Forget These Tips Over the Holidays!

The holidays are fun, but they can also tend to be unhealthy. With all of the snacking, feasts, and pies, it can be hard to put your health first this season. Access Dental and Dentures has the best dentists in the Springfield area, and we are here with all the tips you need to keep your teeth healthy over the holidays. Keep reading to learn more, and follow us on all our social media to get important tips and reminders every week! 

Neglecting Healthy Habits

Even if you're not traveling far this year, the holidays tend to disrupt our normal habits. With time off work, scheduling zoom calls, visiting nearby family, buying presents, and other holiday activities... It can be hard to keep up with important dental and hygiene habits. Make your health a priority and set reminders to brush and floss your teeth every day, bring a refillable water bottle  with you to stay hydrated, and carry floss picks and travel mouthwash with you to stay fresh. 

Overindulging

During the holidays, it can be hard to manage your impulse control. After all, how often do you have a full feast of delicious foods and desserts spread out in front of you?! Not only do we tend to eat too much during the holidays, but we also tend to eat too often. As you spend time in the kitchen with your family preparing dishes for dinner, you could fall into a bad habit of snacking all day. It's just a taste test, right? Unfortunately, if you are eating food all day - especially food high in sugar and fat - that means it's in contact with your teeth for a longer amount of time. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the more opportunity bacteria has to grow and accumulate. Try to avoid snacking throughout the day in order to keep your teeth feeling fresh. If you do choose to snack during the day, be sure to drink plenty of water to flush away food particles.

Food & Drink Selections

In addition to eating too much and too often over the holidays, we tend to make worse choices. Instead of eating a lightly seasoned fish filet with steamed veggies, we indulge in gravy-smothered dishes high in carbs, fat, and sugar. It can be easy to make excuses for the holidays, especially when you think ahead to January and promise yourself that your resolutions will make up for the bad choices now. Unfortunately, the bad food choices you make over the holidays can do more than just add pounds. Bacteria feed on sugar, so the more sweets you consume over the holidays, the more the bacteria in your mouth can grow. If you choose to indulge this season, try to limit the amount of sugar you consume, and make sure to rinse your mouth and brush your teeth after a particularly sugar-rich meal.

Visit Access Dental!

You should see a dentist every 6 months to make sure your teeth are in good condition and don't have any serious issues. If it's been a while since your last check-up, after the holidays could be the perfect time. Access Dental and Dentures has several convenient locations in southern Missouri, and we would love to help you keep you teeth in top condition year after year. Give us a call to learn more and schedule an appointment!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Services at Access Dental & Dentures

As the best dentists in southern Missouri, Access Dental and Dentures has all the dental services you need to keep a healthy and happy smile! We have offices throughout southern Missouri, so there is bound to be one conveniently located near you. Keep reading to learn more about our services and how we can help you! 

COMPOSITE FILLINGS

We use composite (tooth-colored) fillings that are light cured to match your teeth. They are a mixture of glass or quartz filler in a resin medium. Composite fillings have good durability and resistance to fracture in small-to-mid size restorations. Your dentist also has to remove less tooth structure when using composite instead of an amalgam. 

CROWNS

The reasons your dentist may suggest restoring your tooth with a crown can vary from case to case. Crowns strengthen and protect the remaining tooth structure and can improve the appearance of your teeth. Crowns can be made from different materials which include a full porcelain crown, a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown, and an all-metal crown. You and your dentist will decide which type is appropriate, depending upon the strength requirements and esthetic concerns of the tooth involved.

ROOT CANALS

Endodontic treatment (root canal) treats the inside of the tooth. Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes: deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, faulty crowns, or a crack or chip in the tooth. In addition, trauma to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.

TEETH WHITENING

We will provide you with a custom whitening tray made from your own dental impressions. Once at home, you can choose how often and long to use the supplied whitening agent to customize the brightness of your smile.

VENEERS

Porcelain veneers are dental prosthetics that are placed on the surface of discolored, chipped, cracked, or misaligned teeth, and they are probably the most aesthetic means of creating a more pleasing smile. They require a minimal amount of tooth reduction (approximately .5 mm) and are, therefore, a more conservative restoration than a crown. 

DENTURES / PARTIALS

For missing teeth, we can make dentures or removable partials for you right in our own on-site, professional dental lab. Since our technicians are on-site, you will not have to wait days or weeks for your new set of dentures or new partial. Normally, your new teeth will be ready the very next day and in some cases, the same day. We can then make any necessary adjustments for a perfect fit while you wait.

DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental Implants are basically sophisticated screws made of a medically pure metal - titanium. These screws are then placed in the jaw bone and rest under the gum for 3 – 6 months. During this time they fuse to the jawbone and become osseo (bone) integrated. After the appropriate healing time, we uncover the implants and use them to replace one or more missing teeth by fabricating a dental prosthesis.

BRIDGES

If tooth loss occurs, your dentist may recommend that a bridge be placed. A bridge consists of a replacement tooth/teeth attached to crowns on each side. The bridge is cemented to the teeth adjacent to the space, effectively replacing the missing tooth and preventing any shifting. 

MISSOURI DENTIST

As your trusted Missouri dentist, Access Dental and Dentures is here to help you stay healthy and enjoy a more confident smile. If you are in need of dental assistance, or simply looking for a new dentist's office, give us a call. 1-877-DENTIST. We are here for you!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Smile Improvements from Access Dental!

Your smile is priceless. Not only can it show just how happy and confident you are, but it can also make a great first impression that lasts. If you aren't fully confident in your smile, Access Dental and Dentures can help with that! We are the best dentists in southern Missouri, and we are here to help boost your confidence and improve your health. Keep reading to learn the specific ways we can help you enjoy a healthier, winning smile. 

Teeth Whitening

Professional whitening is a great way to improve your smile. We will provide you a custom whitening tray, made from your own dental impressions, so that you have a custom fit. Once at home, you can choose how often and long to use the supplied whitening agent to customize the brightness of your smile.

Veneers

Porcelain veneers are dental prosthetics that are placed on the surface of discolored, chipped, cracked, or misaligned teeth. Veneers require a minimal amount of tooth reduction (about .5 mm), which make them a more conservative restoration than a crown. Dental veneers allow us to alter tooth position, shape, size, and color. They are not the only alternative for all aesthetic abnormalities, but they are an excellent way to give you the clean, beautiful smile you've always imagined.

Dentures & Partials

For missing teeth, we can make dentures or removable partials for you in our own on-site, professional dental lab! Since our technicians are on-site, you won't have to wait weeks, or even days, for your new set of dentures or partial. Normally, your new teeth will be ready the very next day or, in some cases, the same day. We can then make any necessary adjustments for a perfect fit while you wait.

Tooth Extractions

If  you have a tooth beyond repair, like extensive decay or an abscess, then it is usually recommended that the tooth be removed. If needed, a tooth extraction should be done as soon as possible to avoid the spread of infection or even more serious problems. We can extract a single tooth, full mouth, and most wisdom teeth.

Routine Cleanings

It's a good idea to have your teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist every six months. It also gives your dentist an opportunity to check your teeth for any cavities, soft spots, or issues coming up. Regular cleanings include a deep clean to polish your teeth for a healthy smile. We will also give you tips for better oral care if needed.

Best Missouri Dentist

So, if your smile isn't what it could be, give the experts at Access Dental and Dentures a call! We can help restore or repair your smile so that you can enjoy all the confidence a healthy, happy smile can bring. We can't wait to help you! Call to ask questions or set up an appointment: 1-877-DENTIST.

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Tips on Reducing Sugar This Season

There is a lot of sugary temptation this season. From leftover Halloween candy to hefty cold-weather meals, fall can be a difficult time to eat mindfully and protect your teeth from too much sugar. As the best dentist in southern Missouri, Access Dental and Dentures is here to help you resist temptation and stay healthy during the holidays. Keep reading to learn more! 

Avoid Stress & Triggers

While avoiding stress is sometimes easier said than done, there are other ways to help your body cope other than eating sweets. A few things you can try to help cope with stress are… meditation, yoga, exercise, etc. 

Avoid triggers or tempting situations like grocery shopping while hungry, or attending a party on an empty stomach. If you know you will be attending a party where you will be surrounded by a lot of sweets, eat a meal that is high in protein before leaving and make sure you are well hydrated. Chew on a piece of gum during the party to help prevent absent-minded snacking as well. 

Ditch Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are typically not actually better for you than traditional sugar. While both are bad for your health, artificial sweeteners can cause the signals that control appetite in your brain to get mixed up or ignored. Some sweeteners that are considered “healthy”, like Stevia, actually taste ten times sweeter than the average sweetener. If your taste buds develop an appetite for this sweeter flavor, it is likely that you will crave more of it in higher quantities.

Eat More Fruit

Fruit contains natural sugars that are significantly better for you than table sugar. Eating a handful of berries or an apple could help satisfy your sweet tooth while also providing good vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your diet. 

Prioritize Protein

Protein is a necessary nutrient to our diets, and it also helps you feel full for longer. If you feel full throughout the day, you are less likely to feel like snacking on unhealthy treats and sweets. Protein can help diminish your cravings as well, because your body doesn’t feel like it is in need of more nutrients. 

Drink Plenty of Water

Sometimes the body can get confused and cross its signals. If you are craving something sweet, your body could actually just be dehydrated and in need of water. Drink a large glass of water when you experience unhealthy cravings or hunger outside of mealtime. This could help satiate your body enough to curb cravings so you can say “no” to the office candy dish.

Dental Health for the Holidays

Ditching the sweets over the holidays is very difficult, especially with so much stress that can come with the season. Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist in the Springfield area, so we can help if your sweet tooth gets your actual teeth in trouble. Give us a call to learn more about how we can help improve your dental health!  

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Dental Health Tips for Holiday Travels

Planning to travel and see family this holiday season? Breaking your regular routine can disrupt your dental hygiene habits and make it difficult to stay on track and keep taking care of your oral health. The holidays also come with temptations of large amounts of sugary and fattening foods. Access Dental and Dentures is the best dental clinic in Missouri, and we are here to help you stay on track. Keep reading for our best tips and advice on staying healthy this holiday season!

Be Prepared

While no one plans to misplace luggage, it's important to be prepared when traveling over the holidays. Keep a spare tooth brush on you when traveling! That way, you won't be caught off guard and stuck with bad dental health. If your travel plans include a flight, keep a toothbrush in your carry-on bag to ensure you arrive to your destination prepared.

Pack Small

There are a number of miniature oral hygiene items that take up less room when traveling so you don't have to go without the proper hygiene during your vacation. The added convenience of smaller dental hygiene items can make it easier to pack and remember these important things. A foldable toothbrush, miniature tube of toothpaste, and small bottle of mouthwash can easily fit in your suitcase or travel bag. And if the mouthwash is less than 3 fluid ounces, you can even take it on most flights.

Keep Toothbrush Dry

If your travel plans allow, try to let your toothbrush air out between uses. A damp toothbrush in an enclosed space creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. If you do have to keep your toothbrush enclosed, remember to wash your case and brush as soon as you get back home to eliminate bacteria buildup.

Eat Healthy

While it may be difficult to resist during the holidays, try to eat a well-balanced meal when possible. Try to limit your sugar intake this season. The sugar found in snacks and treats promotes bacteria growth, which can lead to tooth decay.

Chew Gum

While it may be hard to brush your teeth throughout the day when traveling, sugar-free gum can help keep your tooth surface free of debris and plaque build up. Drinking plenty of water can also flush away debris and help to protect your teeth throughout the day.

Best Missouri Dentist

Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist in southern Missouri, and we are here for you. In fact, we are in lots of places for you! We have several convenient locations including Springfield, Osage Beach, Rolla, Mountain Grove, and Aurora. If you need assistance or information about dental care, don't hesitate to contact us! 

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Tooth Pain? Check Out These Common Causes!

Tooth pain is not only annoying, but it can feel very invasive as well! Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist in southern Missouri, so we know all too well how bad tooth pain can be. Not being able to enjoy cold food, hot drinks, chewing crispy or hard items... If tooth pain feels like it is taking over your life, keep reading to see if one of these causes could be why. And give us a call for an appointment! 

Grinding Teeth

If you grind your teeth, the outer layer of your tooth gets worn down from the pressure. This exposes the dentin inside your teeth, which makes it more susceptible to sensitivity and decay. If you regularly wake up with an aching jaw or tooth pain, then it may be a good idea to talk to your local dentist to get some protective gear while you sleep. 

Too Much Acid Exposure

If you consume a lot of acidic foods and drinks as part of your diet, then you could be on the path to some serious dental issues. Check out these signs and symptoms to see if your enamel may already be experiencing erosion. 

• Tooth Sensitivity - Hot, cold, and overly sweet items will cause tooth pain.
• Discoloration - Teeth will become more and more yellow.
• Rounding - Teeth may start to look rounded as corners wear away.
• Transparent Teeth - Teeth might start looking somewhat see-through, especially at the edges.
• Cracks & Cupping - Small cracks and dents may appear on your teeth.

Too Much Brushing

Tooth pain and sensitivity could simply be caused by bad, or incorrect, brushing techniques. If you tend to brush your teeth very hard with a hard-bristled toothbrush, then it could simply mean that you are being too aggressive and need to pull back a bit. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush in gentle circles to avoid causing damage to your gums while brushing. 

Too Little Flossing

Flossing. We know it’s something we should do daily, but most people aren’t quite sure why. You may think that brushing your teeth twice a day and using Listerine is enough. But what you might not realize is that neither of those methods can reach the bacteria growing in the tight spaces between your teeth. This bacteria can cause inflammation and tooth pain. The benefits of flossing go beyond just keeping your teeth clean and shiny. Flossing regularly can help prevent...

• Bad Breath
• Yellowing Teeth
• Tooth Decay
• Gum Disease
• Serious Health Concerns

Cavities

Your tooth pain and sensitivity could be caused by a more serious issue than the others, though. It could be that your enamel has already worn away and caused a cavity in your tooth. It is important to see a dentist to rule out this possibility!

Missouri Dentist

If none of these causes sound like they could be the reason you are experiencing tooth pain, be sure to schedule an appointment with a professional dentist near you as soon as possible. There could be an underlying issue causing the problem. Access Dental and Dentures is dedicated to your health, and we are here for you. Give us a call to set up an appointment or a regular cleaning: 1-877-DENTIST

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Dentures - What to Expect & How to Care for Them!

Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist in southern Missouri! That includes our on-site professional dental lab where we can create custom dentures. In many cases, your dentures could even be ready the next day. If you are curious about what to expect after you receive your dentures and how to take care of them, keep reading!

Adjust Your Diet

In the first 24 hours, your diet should consist of non-carbonated, cold beverages (i.e. ice tea) and soft foods. Progress diet as healing allows. 

Don't Rinse!

DO NOT RINSE YOUR MOUTH in the first 24 hours, as this may dislodge the clots in the tooth socket. The result is a dry socket, which can be very painful. This rarely happens but when it does, it is usually the result of smoking. If you feel the need to remove the dentures, remember to rinse them quickly with cold water and reinsert immediately. If you cannot insert the denture, wait for your dentist to help you. Place a towel on your pillow, because it is normal to have some oozing of blood. 

Expect Some Pain & Swelling

Please leave the immediate dentures in place for 24 hours after your teeth have been removed. The dentures will act as a bandage to protect the extraction sites and to prevent swelling. The dentures will limit the bleeding and swelling with their splinting. Ice packs placed on the face in the extraction areas for 10-15 minute intervals will help minimize the pain. Please follow pain medication instructions as prescribed by your doctor. 

Adjusting to Your Bite & Speech

In the first 24 hours, the dentures may not feel right. You may also experience salivation and gagging for the first few days. Your dentist will adjust your denture over the next couple of appointments. Please be patient as you heal. The doctor and his staff will help you adjust to your new prosthesis. You may notice a lisp or slurring of your speech in the first days of wearing your denture. This is normal and will disappear as you adjust to your denture. 

Denture & Mouth Care

After the initial 24 hours, use a denture brush that is contoured to clean your denture and an ADA approved denture-cleaning solution. Clean dentures twice a day. For the 1st week please only remove the dentures to clean them and then place them back in your mouth. Leaving the dentures out for an extended period may result in increased swelling and inability reinsert the dentures. After 1 week: Please begin removing your denture at night. Exposure to oxygen is best for your gums. When the denture is out of your mouth, place in water to prevent the acrylic from drying out. 

Healing Process

As you are healing, the swelling is reduced, and the extraction sites will begin to close. The dentures may begin to slip or feel big. You may purchase denture adhesive at your local drugstore. Please use as directed. During the initial stages of healing while the extraction sites re open, please do not place denture adhesive over the extraction sites or in the denture area that sits on the extraction sites. Denture adhesive can be irritating to open sockets and may cause infection. You will also need to clean the denture adhesive completely off the denture and your tissue before reapplying. Over the next 3-6 months, you will have many changes in your mouth. Remember the removal of teeth involves bones and bone requires 6 months to completely heal. 

Best Denture Care

If you have any questions about how the process of getting fit for dentures works or want to ask our team more questions about how to prepare, give us a call at 1-877-DENTIST! We are the best Missouri dentists, and we are happy to help get you to the confident, healthy smile of your dreams. Call Access Dental and Dentures today!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Important Health Benefits of Water!

Just about everyone knows that drinking water is an important health habit. Staying hydrated is important for gut health, skin elasticity, electrolyte balance, and more. But, not a lot of people realize that drinking water is also very important for the health of your teeth. Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist office in southern Missouri, and we are here to help advise you on important dental health practices. Keep reading to learn more about how water can benefit your teeth! 

Water Keeps You Hydrated

This benefit may seem obvious for overall health but staying hydrated is also important to your oral health because it helps maintain healthy saliva production. Saliva plays a vital role in keeping your teeth strong and healthy, as it naturally washes away bacteria and debris. It also deposits tooth-strengthening minerals like calcium to keep your teeth resistant to cavities.

Water Flushes Out Contaminants

As you go through the day, your teeth are exposed to things like coffee, office donuts, and your lunch. These can cause bacteria to start developing on and in between your teeth. Drink water regularly and each time you eat or drink something else. This will help flush away staining residue from coffee or pieces of food that may have been left behind. The less time that those items are in contact with your teeth, the better!

Water Replaces Unhealthy Drinks

If you make it a point to drink water throughout the day, it may help you resist reaching for a drink full of sugar. Sugary drinks like sodas and fruit juices can harm your teeth by depositing sugar on and in between them. As this sugar sits on your teeth, it can start damaging the enamel surface that protects your teeth from cavities. Sugar can also promote bacterial growth. Avoiding sugary drinks and replacing them with water can help reduce tooth decay and bacterial growth in your mouth.

Water Strengthens Teeth

Tap water and certain kinds of bottled water contain fluoride. Fluoride is a substance that strengthens your teeth and thereby helps prevent cavities. Drinking your recommended daily allowance of water will provide more exposure to fluoride in addition to brushing your teeth twice a day. While it may not seem like a lot compared to the fluoride in your toothpaste, the additional fluoride in your water could make a big difference in keeping your teeth strong and healthy.

Drinking Water is Dentist-Approved! 

Drinking water is a simple way to benefit your teeth and give your oral health a boost. The simple act of drinking water can…

• Strengthen your teeth with fluoride
• Flush out bacteria-causing contaminants
• Replace unhealthy drinks and reduce sugar
• Keep you and your mouth hydrated

Your dental health is important to us, and we are here to help! Drink water to benefit your teeth and overall oral health. Getting enough water in your diet can strengthen your teeth, flush out bacteria, keep unhealthy drinks out of your diet, and keep you hydrated! Call Access Dental and Dentures to set up a dentist appointment and we can help keep your teeth in great condition. 

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Aging & Dental Health

Did you know that your teeth change over time as you age? Children's teeth are more prone to cavities because they are softer. As teeth age, they become stronger and less prone to dental issues until a more advanced age when they can become prone to cavities and dental issues again. Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist in southern Missouri, and we are here to help you understand how aging can affect your dental health. Keep reading to learn more!

Wear & Tear

Despite how careful you are, teeth usually wear down over time. You can help control the amount of wear and tear by watching what you eat. Chewing on ice can create enamel chips or completely break off teeth. While this may be a hard habit to break, if you want to avoid wear, you’ll want to ditch this habit. Teeth can also be worn down by a poor bite or night-time grinding. Dental appliances from Access Dental and Dentures can help prevent this kind of damage.

Discoloration

Unfortunately, teeth coloring is also common with age. The dentin, which is the core tissue in your teeth, becomes more yellow over time. The outside enamel on teeth then thins with age, causing the coloring of the dentin to show through. Eating and drinking certain things like coffee, wine, sodas, tea, some fruits and vegetables, and tobacco can also yellow teeth. Cutting back on these foods, drinking lots of water, and having a professional whitening can help you maintain a sparkling white smile.

Teeth Shift

Teeth also begin to shift with age. The two front lower teeth are often the first to shift due to the pressure on your teeth that are caused by wear and tear. Teeth shifting causes loss of bone, which causes gums to recede. A lot of stress that comes with aging is taken out on the jaw through grinding and clenching, which can cause wear on the enamel and even chipped teeth. Getting appliances to protect your teeth from clenching and grinding in the night can help prevent teeth shift also.

Dry Mouth

As you age, you may find yourself being prescribed more medications to take by your doctor. With some of these medications comes the side effect of dry mouth. Due to the reduced amount of saliva being produced during dry mouth, foods and bacteria can stay in your mouth longer which leads to an increased chance of a cavity. Make sure to let your dentist know about all the medications you take and about any medical changes you've noticed.

Gum Disease

Gum disease becomes more common with age also. It becomes an issue when the bacteria in plaque causes the gums to become irritated and swollen. Unfortunately, gum disease is often painless until it reaches a certain stage, so it can go undetected for a while. During advanced stages of gum disease, the gums pull away from the teeth, allowing food and other particles to get caught within these pockets. Gum disease can destroy gums, bones, and the ligaments that hold teeth in place. This can eventually cause tooth loss.

Your Local Dentist

If you are concerned about what aging could be doing to your teeth, come visit Access Dental and Dentures. We are the best dentist in southern Missouri, and we are here to help you! Regular dentist visits can help catch issues like cavities and gum disease before they become too advanced. Give us a call to schedule an appointment.

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Common Causes of Stains, and How to Treat!

Stained teeth can be unsightly and embarrassing! If you are struggling with teeth stains, then Access Dental and Dentures is here for you. We have the best dental services in Southern Missouri and we would love to help you fight stains and gain confidence with a bright, happy smile. Keep reading to learn how to avoid stains and how we can help!

How to Prevent Stains

Other than avoiding these items completely, which can be difficult, Access Dental has some great tips to help keep your teeth brighter and healthier! If you do eat or drink something acidic or stain-causing, drink a full glass of water afterward. This can help rinse away the stain causing materials and fortify your teeth with fluoride from the water. Using a straw is another great way to help limit stains, as it keeps the stain-causing beverage away from your teeth.

Your Daily Coffee

Coffee is a fairly acidic drink and can cause dark stains. Most of us have had a little mishap with coffee and had to face the stained consequences. Imagine what drinking coffee every day could do to your teeth over time. If you drink your coffee with milk, it could lessen the resulting stains somewhat because milk is more basic and can help reduce the acidic content of the beverage. Milk also has a high calcium content which can help strengthen teeth. Just make sure you aren't using a creamer with high sugar content. This will actually weaken your teeth, making them more susceptible to stains.

Red & White Wines

Red wine contains tannins that can stain teeth. We know that red wine is a powerful stain-causing agent to clothes and tablecloths, so it makes sense that it can also cause dark stains on our teeth. White wine is not necessarily safe, however. While it isn't darkly pigmented, it does have a high acidic content that can damage teeth and lead to discoloration. 

Sodas

It's not just darkly-colored sodas that can stain teeth. Soda, in general, contains a huge amount of sugar and acid that erode enamel. Without this protective covering, your teeth are much more susceptible to stains setting in at a deep level.

Acidic Foods

Not all acidic food cause stains, but the high acid content in them can wear away your enamel, making teeth weaker and more susceptible to stains. Foods that are high in acid content and also stain causing are particularly harmful. One example would be tomato sauce. Tomatoes contain a lot of acid and also can cause significant stains due to their pigmentation. 

Hard Candies

Candies that contain a lot of artificial dyes can be harmful. If it stains your tongue, it can also stain your teeth. Chew-able candy still isn't healthy for your teeth, but hard candies are typically held in your mouth for longer periods of time. This extended contact with your teeth gives the sugars and dye more time to cause damage.

Dark Berries

Berries are full of flavor and can help give the rest of your body an immune boost. However, it can also cause lasting stains on your teeth due to the dark pigments that they contain. If pieces are stuck or left behind, they can continue to cause even darker stains as they sit there.

Visit the Dentist Regularly

If your teeth are looking yellow or dull and you want to have a more confident, white smile, contact Access Dental and Dentures! We are the the best dentist in the Springfield area, and we would love to help you. Whether you need to get on a regular cleaning schedule or want to talk about custom, professional whitening services, Access Dental can help! Give us a call to get started. 

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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