Tag: Dentist Biloxi

You may not realize it, but you could be at risk of  

developing an unsightly medical condition known  

as a hairy tongue. While it is harmless in most cases,  

a hairy tongue is still an unpleasant ailment. The  

causes are not always completely known, but  

practicing good oral hygiene at home and visiting  

our dental office for cleanings can help prevent  

the issue. Here’s what you need to know. 

What is a hairy tongue? 

With hairy tongue, your tongue may look like its  

covered in fuzz or hair, but this condition is  

actually caused by an accumulation of bacteria. The surface of your tongue is covered in small,  rough papillae which gives it its rough texture. Overtime, these papillae grow, shed, and are  replaced. Occasionally, the older papillae may fail to shed properly. This causes a buildup on the  tongue and can cause a hair-like appearance. 

Who is at risk of hairy tongue? 

According to the American Academy of Oral Medicine, as much as 13% of the population may  have hairy tongue. Anyone can develop the condition, but certain risk factors such as age and  tobacco use increase your chances. 

What causes hairy tongue? 

While the exact causes of hairy tongue are not known, there are a variety of factors that can  put you at a higher risk of developing the condition. Poor oral hygiene and a diet of soft foods can put you at an increased risk, as a lack of stimulation on the tongue can prevent the  shedding of older papillae. Excessive consumption of certain substances, including tobacco,  alcohol, coffee, and tea have been shown to contribute to this condition. Dehydration and dry  mouth can slow down the tongue’s natural refresh cycle of replacing papillae. 

The best defense against hairy tongue is a regular at-home oral hygiene routine that includes  twice daily brushing, flossing, and mouthwash. Visiting our Biloxi dentist at least twice a year for  cleanings can also give us an opportunity to regularly examine your mouth and catch any early  signs of hairy tongue.  

If you’re past due for your regular cleaning or are concerned that you might be developing hairy  tongue, don’t hesitate to contact Pure Smiles Dental of Biloxi for an appointment today.

It is not uncommon for many of us to grab a  

bite to eat in a hurry. Americans have grown  

accustomed to bigger food portions at  

restaurants, but our mouths have not. Trying  

to fit that oversized sandwich or apple in your  

mouth might be worse for you than you have  

ever imagined. Below are some reasons why  

this could be detrimental for your oral health  

and what you can do about it.  

Why This Is a Problem 

According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), taking bites that are too big for you to  chew can not only cause jaw and teeth issues, it can also cause digestive problems. Discomfort,  swelling and difficulty eating may result from opening your jaw too wide. Taking large bites may also result in food not being chewed thoroughly, which can lead to weight gain and digestive  issues.  

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) 

Constantly opening your jaw too wide becomes an even larger problem for people with  temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to  the skull bones enabling movement during chewing. People with TMD, usually have a  restriction with how wide they can open their jaws. Taking large bites of food, especially hard  foods like apples, can aggravate this condition making pain and jaw clicking worse.  

What You Can Do 

If you have food that is too large to chew or starts to cause jaw discomfort, try cutting your  food into smaller portions. This makes food easier to eat with less hassle. Also consider eating  softer foods that won’t harm your teeth or irritate your jaw.  

Tip: Avoid chewing on ice, popcorn kernels, hard candies, and opening nuts with your teeth.  This can lead to a chipped tooth! 

Contact Pure Smiles Dental of Biloxi today to schedule an exam and cleaning. 

Are you embarrassed to show your smile  

because of missing teeth? For many people,  

missing teeth can create a feeling of diminished  

self-confidence. Modern dentistry can not only  

replace the gaps in your smile, our team can  

also create long-term replacements that look  

and feel just like your natural teeth. You have  

options. Here are a few of the most common  

tooth replacement solutions. 

Dentures 

Dentures are a solution for those who have lost many or all their teeth. They create a realistic,  aesthetically pleasing smile. They are ideal for patients that are missing multiple teeth on either  the top or bottom. Our team will start by taking an impression of your mouth. We will then  send the impression to a lab for a customized set of dentures to be created. Once your  dentures are ready, we will ensure a proper fit and make any necessary adjustments. Dentures  should be cleaned regularly with a non-abrasive cleanser. Our team will provide you with all the  information you need to take care of your dentures. 

Bridges 

You may have heard of dental bridges referred to as partial dentures. Dental bridges are a  replacement solution for one or more missing teeth. They help prevent your existing teeth from  shifting into the empty gaps of your missing teeth. Bridges utilize your surrounding teeth as an  anchor for your replacements. Our team can match the bridge to look like your natural teeth;  no one will even notice the difference. 

Dental Implants 

Dental implants are a long-lasting tooth replacement option. Unlike dentures, which may  require replacement, dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. Our team will ensure  your gum tissue is healthy enough with adequate bone support to anchor the implant. For  some patients, additional preparations may be necessary such as a bone graft to guarantee your implant has a strong, stable foundation. 

The gaps in your smile can be filled. Our Biloxi Cosmetic Dentist can help you decide on a tooth replacement  solution based on your individual needs. It is important to fill the gaps of missing teeth to  prevent deterioration to your gums and the shifting of teeth into these empty spaces. 

Additionally, tooth replacement solutions such as dentures, bridges, or implants can help  improve your speech and comfort. 

If you are missing teeth, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team. Contact Pure Smiles Dental of Biloxi today.

At times, life can seem to move quickly.  

Between work, school, sports, and social  

events, it can seem there is little time left for  

you and your health. It’s imperative for a  

healthy mouth and body to always have your  

next dental appointment scheduled and to  

prioritize this care. Our team will work with you  

to find the most convenient day and time for  

you. If you need to reschedule, we will do our  

best to accommodate you. Advanced notice of  

a change is greatly appreciated, whenever  

possible. Missed appointments without notice are harmful to our practice, as we’ve  reserved your appointment time exclusively for you. 

Missed dental appointments can lead to worsened oral and overall health. Whether  receiving preventive or restorative care, if left without professional treatment, plaque  and decay will progress and the state of your oral health will likely decline. Some of our  patients are predisposed to more frequent oral health issues. Many times, these guests  prefer more frequent office visits. Please know this is an option for you as well. Investing  in one extra cleaning each year can often prevent more costly concerns. 

We know it can be tempting to skip your dental appointment. Perhaps you’d rather be  relaxing at home or you’ve had a last-minute obligation arise. Please make every effort to prioritize your healthy smile, as it significantly contributes to your overall health. 

Please know we’re here for you. If you have any questions about our care or practice philosophy, don’t hesitate to contact Pure Smiles Dental of Biloxi.

Don’t wait until you’re in pain to see your dentist! Most people make time to clean out the house, car,  garage, or closets at least twice a year. Why not include your oral health on your “to do” list? 

Schedule an Appointment Now!  

Regular professional cleaning and examinations are essential to maintaining optimal oral health. These  routine visits are your first line of defense against tooth decay, periodontal disease, oral cancers, and  more. Early identification and treatment of any oral illness improves outcomes and allows for less invasive treatment options. Don’t wait until it hurts! 

Why Do We Avoid Going? 

The HDI institute, in a study done with the American Dental Association, lists some of the main reasons  we sometimes delay going to the dentist. Cost, low perceived need, time, and anxiety are the most  common causes. However, if we allow these concerns to interfere with oral care, we may allow more  serious issues to develop. 

When Should We See the Dentist? 

The ADA or American Dental Society recommends maintaining twice yearly visits for cleaning and  examinations. In addition, they advise making an appointment for any of the following concerns: 

1. Pain in your mouth, teeth, or face 

2. Injury to your mouth, teeth, or face 

3. Conditions that can affect oral health, such as diabetes 

4. Pregnancy 

5. Jaw pain or stiffness 

6. Bleeding, swelling, or redness in your gums 

7. Recent dental treatment, such as fillings, crowns, implants, or root canal 

8. Pain or difficulty eating or drinking 

9. Chronic dry mouth 

10. Smoking or tobacco use 

11. Sores in your mouth that are not healing 

12. You have questions or concerns about your oral health or hygiene 

Our Biloxi Cosmetic Dentist is here to help you achieve and maintain your best oral health. To schedule your next appointment, please contact Pure Smiles Dental of Biloxi. 

Determining Which Type of Denture is Best for You  

Dentures can either be a replacement of all of one’s teeth known as complete dentures or a section of  teeth, known as partial dentures. When arriving for your scheduled appointment here is what you can  expect. X-rays to look for any issues that might affect fit. In some cases, the addition of crowns, may be  

needed to accommodate the new partials. Once fitted, your dentist will recommend keeping them in for  one week to make any necessary adjustments. Next, how you should care for them, why it is important  to note any misconceptions, and any future questions you might have will go down here in this handy  guide. Always consult your dental professional should you have any questions or concerns.  

Fitting of Partial Dentures 

Having been fitted with your partials, you will be ready to schedule a follow up appointment you’re your  dental professional to make any adjustments and address any concerns you are having during this first  week period. There will be different types of products available to you the consumer for taking care of  your new partials, and that it is important to know what to expect when wearing and caring for them.  Some of the commonly held misconceptions are listed below and are summarized from the ADA’s  recommendations.  

Misconceptions and how to Care for Them Below, is a look at some differences, and what you can  expect when caring for your new partials. The many different types of products available to you over the  counter and caring for them will change. Below, we can see how and what will be done different.  

1. Never brush your dentures with a regular toothbrush. Always use an approved denture  brush designed specifically for dentures themselves, otherwise you can damage them.  2. Avoid any non-approved denture toothpaste not designed for dentures. They are far too  abrasive and again you risk damaging them.  

3. Instead, using a mild household soap and water is perfectly acceptable and will not damage  them.  

4. Your dentist will probably recommend a cleanser. Look for denture cleaners sold over the  counter that are ADA acceptable and the label clearly indicates this.  

1. Finally, if at any time your dentures become damaged, either they have been chipped or are  missing one or more teeth, consult your dentist immediately.  

Whether you are deciding which type of dentures, either partial and full replacements, you should now  have a basic understanding of what to expect with full or partial ones. Avoiding cleansers and brushes  that will cause harm or damage and following the recommendation of your Biloxi Cosmetic Dentist are  crucial in making your new partials last a long time. For helpful tips, or to schedule your appointment, please contact Pure Smiles Dental of Biloxi. 

Do you have white spots on your teeth? Are your teeth quite sensitive? Do your teeth have  cracks, chips, or indentations? If yes, then you may be experiencing enamel erosion. 

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. It is the clear coating that protects  your teeth. However, being the strongest substance in the body does not mean it should be  neglected. Enamel can erode. Without the protection of enamel, you not only risk developing  decay, but also abscesses, tooth pain, and even tooth loss. 

What Causes Tooth Enamel Erosion? 

There are several factors that cause tooth enamel to erode, some of which are the result of  everyday actions. Sugars and acids can wear down enamel. If you regularly drink soft drinks or sugary fruit drinks, you may be damaging your teeth. To protect your teeth, limit your consumption of such drinks. Alcohol can also erode enamel, as well as a diet that is high in  sugary or starchy foods. The bacteria in the mouth can transform starches and sugars in foods  such as bread into damaging acid.  

Other factors include acid reflux, recurrent vomiting, gastrointestinal problems, genetically inherited conditions, grinding your teeth, even brushing too hard or not flossing properly. All of these impact the health of your enamel, and, ultimately, your teeth. Once the enamel is worn or chipped away, it cannot be replaced. 

Keep the sweets from becoming everyday treats, replace white breads with whole grains, and  try eating more cheese and yogurt to bolster the calcium in your saliva to keep the acids in  check. 

How Can Enamel Erosion Be Prevented? 

In addition to exercising moderation with soft drinks, alcohol, sugars and starches, and, of  course, taking extra care with regard to medical conditions and your tooth care regimen, there  are a few extra things you can do to protect your smile. Saliva can neutralize harmful acids in  your mouth. By drinking water and chewing sugar-free gum, you can boost saliva production.  

Keep the sweets from becoming everyday treats and replace white breads with whole grains.  Add more cheese and yogurt to your diet. Not only are both foods high in calcium, but they also  help neutralize harmful acids in your mouth. 

Tooth enamel is essential for maintaining a healthy smile. Be mindful of what you eat and drink.  Enamel erosion may also be the consequence of other complications such as excessive teeth  grinding or acid reflux. Regular visits to our office allow our team to provide a full examination. If  we detect that your enamel is eroding, we will discuss potential causes and solutions.  

To schedule your next visit to our office, please contact our team today.

Did you know that chocolate might not be as bad for your teeth as people may have thought? You can now  eat your favorite treat without feeling guilty. Studies have shown that there are benefits to eating chocolate, however, not all chocolate is created equal. It is important to note that these benefits apply to dark chocolate, not milk chocolate or white chocolate. Dark chocolate is rich in Fiber, Iron, Magnesium, Copper, Manganese and a few other minerals.  A 100-gram bar of dark chocolate with 70-85% cocoa contains: 

? 11 grams of fiber 

? 67% Iron 

? 58% Magnesium 

? 89% Copper 

? 98% Manganese 

? It also has plenty of potassium, phosphorus, zinc and selenium 

Here are more advantages to eating dark chocolate and how to maintain good oral health while  doing so. 

Chocolate and Your Teeth 

Chocolate is a candy that dissolves quickly in your mouth, resulting in less time on your teeth. It  does less damage than a chewy or sticky candy because the sugar doesn’t cling to your teeth  as long. 

Chocolate and Your Health  

Cocoa and dark chocolate are also a powerful source of antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the  body from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Many experts believe this  damage is a factor in the development of blood vessel disease, cancer, and other conditions.  The bioactive compounds in cocoa can improve blood flow in the arteries and cause a small but  statistically significant decrease in blood pressure. 

Chocolate Benefits  

Eating chocolate can lower your risk for cardiovascular disease. A study also showed that the  flavanols from cocoa can improve blood flow to the skin and protect it against sun-induced  damage. 

Remember to eat responsibly as too much sugary food can be harmful, regardless of the  benefits. Eating dark chocolate and brushing your teeth after will reduce the negative effects of  chocolate.