The Importance of Dental Hygiene

             
                                             The Importance of Dental Hygiene

If you visit your dentist regularly, you probably hear a lot about dental hygiene. After all, the brushing and flossing they recommend is designed to keep your teeth and gums looking (and smelling) fantastic. Oral hygiene, though, is about more than just keeping your smile clean and breath fresh. It also has a significant impact on overall health.

Nutrition

Your mouth is the first part of your digestive system, so it only makes sense that your oral hygiene has a bearing on overall nutrition. Strong teeth are crucial to eating many healthy foods, such as apples, carrots, and nuts. If you don’t maintain your dental hygiene you could experience inflamed gums, cavities, and infected or lost teeth. All of these issues make it more difficult to enjoy wholesome, fresh foods. You could end up filling yourself with soft, junky foods instead. Chewing problems can also lead to irritable bowel syndrome and intestinal failure, among others medical conditions.

Infection and Diseases

Poor oral hygiene is also linked to some infections and diseases. Cardiovascular disease, for instance, may be related to the bacteria caused by oral inflammation. New research is constantly being done to determine the exact linkages between such conditions.

There are indirect effects of poor dental hygiene, as well. For example, if you have an infection in your mouth, it weakens your entire immune system and makes you more susceptible to other sicknesses. Serious cases of oral infection may potentially lead to sepsis.

How to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Keeping your mouth clean and healthy requires proper attention. The most important thing to develop is a maintainable routine. It’s not good enough to brush only a few times a week; brushing needs to occur at least twice per day. Make sure you’re spending about two minutes brushing, or you might not remove all of the plaque and bacteria. To simplify the process, set a timer or play your favorite song.

Other steps to good oral hygiene include:

•   Flossing at least once per day, being careful not to damage the gums.

•   Using a mouthwash after eating.

•   Avoiding excess sugar or overly sticky foods, such as caramel.

•   Brushing after eating sugary or grainy meals that may embed themselves in tooth grooves or existing cavities.

One of the most important ways to protect your dental hygiene is by visiting your dentist on a regular basis. She will be able to check for warning signs and future problems, while giving your teeth a deep cleaning.

If you need help and guidance on this, give us a call! 

Solace Oral Surgery www.SolaceOralSurgery.com

What to Know Before Choosing an Oral Surgeon

                                       What to Know Before Choosing an Oral Surgeon

 

Trying to decide on an oral surgeon can be daunting. However, there are several resources available that can make the task much easier. Understanding your needs as a patient, along with the help and advice of your dentist, will go a long way in helping you find the right oral surgeon.

 

To find an oral surgeon who best meets your needs, consider the following:

·       Length of time the oral surgeon has been in practice

·       Hours the oral surgeon has logged in training and clinical experience performing the procedure you need to have done

·       Estimated costs for the procedure and any pre- and post-op treatment plans

·       Diagnosis and treatment plan proposed by the surgeon

Your personal dentist is a great resource in your search for an oral surgeon. Your dentist understands your situation, your history, and your surgical needs and is equipped to provide references that will best suit your needs.

There are several types of oral surgeons and practices, and each is equipped to handle specific oral care needs. Be sure you select an oral surgeon who specializes in your procedure or condition.

 How Insurance May Affect Your Options

 Before settling on an oral surgeon, read your insurance policy. Depending on the type of coverage, your insurance might dictate which oral surgeon you can use. Your insurance provider should have a list of available surgeons and practices that you can choose from. Research those surgeons and facilities to find one that best suits your needs.

Be proactive and thorough by researching education and experience of any potential candidates. Websites dedicated to specific practitioners and facilities can provide a wealth of information. You can find information concerning location, prices, insurance qualifications, types of procedures, and specialties online. Reputable sites usually showcase customer reviews, which can be a great way to get informed feedback from other patient experiences.

 Look for the Necessary Credentials

Look for an oral surgeon that has the right training and experience. Also, spend a little time getting to know your potential surgeon and the people who work in the office. It’s crucial that you feel comfortable during these delicate procedures. Make some phone calls, do some research, even visit the facility. Find a practitioner you feel comfortable with and can trust with your oral health.

 If you are in the Nashville area, Solace Oral Surgery is here to help. Please call us with any questions about our practice, and we would be happy to assist you.

 

 

 

 

 

The Scary Truth About Gum Disease

                                                        The Scary Truth About Gum Disease

Chances are that you’ve already been warned about gum disease. Most of us are taught the importance of regular dental care at an early age. And yet, 50% of adults in America suffer from gingivitis—an early form of gum disease. Improper care routines can lead to painful and serious side effects and even illness.

Learn to Recognize Gum Disease

Gingivitis is the most common and least severe form of gum disease, but it’s the first stage of periodontitis. Gingivitis causes bright red and swollen gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing. Often, people don’t see bleeding gums as a problem and continue to neglect dental health. Gingivitis, although serious, doesn’t always progress to cause tooth loss or other damage.

Periodontitis, on the other hand, is advanced gum disease and is much more severe. At this stage, the gums recede from the teeth and bone. Deep pockets form within the mouth, trapping bacteria and food debris. These pockets become infected in many cases, filling with bacteria and causing the gum and bone to further dissolve. If the jaw structure become too far degraded, reconstructive surgery may be needed.

Periodontitis is a common cause of tooth loss in adults. The infected pockets can cause the teeth to die or rot in most cases, leaving behind odor and pain. Oral operation may be the only option to safely remove the dead tissue.

Avoid Health Risks Caused by Gum Disease

Tooth loss and oral infections are serious problems, but they’re not the only issues that gum disease causes. Studies have linked periodontitis to illnesses and diseases in other areas of the body as well. Improper dental care can lead to:

·       Diabetes. Substandard dental health causes inflammation in the mouth that can spread easily. This increased swelling can be associated with diabetes. Periodontitis can not only cause problems, but also exacerbate existing symptoms in someone who is already diabetic.

·       Erectile dysfunction. More than half of the men diagnosed with periodontitis also suffered from erectile dysfunction. The exact cause of how gum disease contributes to erectile dysfunction is unknown. However, researchers believe that inflammation and infections are to blame.

·       Pneumonia. People with gum disease inhale harmful bacteria each time they take a breath. Over time, this can cause respiratory distress and infections.

Taking care of your gums and teeth helps maintain your entire body. Remember to always brush and floss and make regular appointments for evaluations and care.

If you do suffer from tooth loss because of gum disease, Solace Oral Surgery is here to help. Contact us at 615-320-1392.

What is an Apicoectomy?

                                         
                                                           What is an Apicoectomy?

Teeth that have recurring infections indicate an issue at the root level or within the tooth canal. Root canals and related procedures are often used to treat these problems, but sometimes an apicoectomy must be performed.

An apicoectomy is a common dental surgery performed by an oral surgeon that involves removing the tip of a tooth root and sealing it. This procedure is performed as a last resort when multiple root canal treatments fail to adequately address the issue.

What Can I Expect During an Apicoectomy?

In most cases, an apicoectomy is a simple, minimally invasive procedure. Depending on the position and location of the infected tooth, it should take no more than 90 minutes to perform. Throughout the procedure, the oral surgeon views your affected tooth through a microscope. The surgical site is exceptionally small, and the tip of the root is only a few millimeters in length, which makes it difficult to see without magnification.

The oral surgeon makes a small incision near the infected area and lifts the gum away to expose the root. Any inflamed or infected tissue is removed along with the tip of the root. A small filling may be placed over the area where the root tip was removed. Stitches are applied over the incision area.

For affected teeth located in the back of the upper jaw, there is a risk the infection could spread into the sinuses. In such cases, patients may need antibiotics or decongestants for a few days prior to and after the procedure.

Sometimes the condition of the root or severity of the infection is unknown until the surgeon is able to view the area during the procedure. In these extreme cases, the oral surgeon may decide to simply extract the tooth.

What is the Recovery Time?

Recovery time after the procedure usually takes no more than 14 days. During that time, you may experience numbness, swelling, or soreness in the area. Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen are often prescribed, though prescription pain killers may be necessary. Any stitches are generally removed a few days after the surgery.

An apicoectomy is considered a permanent solution to a recurring tooth infection issue and should last a lifetime.

Are There Risks?

There is a slight risk of nerve damage when working on back teeth on the lower jaw. The endodontist will take x-rays prior to the procedure to locate nerve endings and assess the risk.

Call us at Solace Oral Surgery (615) 320-1392 and we will be a happy to answer any other questions! 

The Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal

                                          The Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth – the third and final set of molars – typically do not erupt until late in the teenage years or early 20s. Though not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, those that do will likely experience problems with them between the ages 25 and 30.

Why Should My Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

Healthy, well-positioned wisdom teeth do not cause problems, however, this is usually not the case when wisdom teeth erupt. Oftentimes, there is not enough space in the mouth to accommodate an additional set of teeth, which can lead to several dental issues.

·       A wisdom tooth that does not fully integrate into the mouth or align with the other teeth can become impacted in the jaw. Impacted teeth can house bacteria, which eventually leads to gum disease and infection.

·       If a tooth fails to come in completely, tissue will grow over the tooth, allowing food and other particles to become lodged under this tissue and form bacteria.

·       Teeth that grow in awkwardly can also have a huge impact on the overall comfortability and bite of the jaw. It can force the surrounding teeth to reposition themselves or push together and overlap.

·       Wisdom teeth that erupt only partially can sometimes cause fluid-filled sacs to form, otherwise known as cysts. To stave off infection and avoid damage to neighboring tissue, these cysts should be promptly drained or removed. However, there are no guarantees the cysts will not reform even after removal.

Due to their position in the jaw, wisdom teeth are exceptionally hard to clean. Flossing and brushing can be a challenge, so tooth decay and cavities are common ailments for these hard-to-reach teeth. And since your wisdom teeth are difficult to see without using a dental mirror, it is almost impossible to gauge visual indicators of infection or other problems.

Because of the problems wisdom teeth present, doctors recommend taking preventative measures whenever possible. Many oral surgeons advocate extraction in youth before the teeth have a chance to emerge. Young adults are particularly resistant to infection and generally have faster, healthier recovery times.

Are There Risks?

In most cases, there are no long-term effects associated with wisdom teeth extraction. Despite the procedure’s success rate, however, some minor complications can occur, such as a painful dry socket where the tooth was removed, infection due to food particles trapped in the vacant sockets, and damage to neighboring teeth or sinuses.

The benefits of wisdom tooth removal are great. To avoid many of these issues, consult with Solace Oral Surgery for options and information about removal. 

Dr. Jamie Romero Recognized As 2016 Top Dentist for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Dr. Jamie Romero Recognized As 2016 Top Dentist for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

With sincere gratitude and appreciation, we are honored to share that Dr. Jaime A. Romero Jr. of Solace Oral Surgery has been recognized as a 2016 Top Dentist for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery by Nashville Lifestyles.

The Top Dentists are selected based upon a database containing thousands of comprehensive evaluations from other dental professionals.  These professionals are asked to consider the nominees’ experience, continuing education, conduct with patients, use of new techniques and medical results, according to Nashville Lifestyles. The Top Dentists must also have an active license and be in good standing with the state dental board.

 

Dr. Romero has received Top Dentist standing multiple years in a row.  He is a graduate of the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry and accomplished his oral and maxillofacial surgery residency at Metro Health Medical Center and the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio.

Giving back to the community is a passion for Dr. Romero and one of the characteristics that make him a Top Dentist. Dr. Romero has recently been involved with Mission You Matter and has been involved for many years with Hope Smiles, an organization that provides surgical and emergency dental care during medial mission outreach in partnership with St. Thomas Health. He also serves and volunteers at Interfaith Dental Clinic, Brentwood Baptist Dental Unit and various other local organizations.

Born in the United States and raised in Mexico to be closer to family, Dr. Romero is fluent in Spanish. His family returned back to the U.S. when he was twelve years old for employment and educational opportunities.

Dr. Romero has a strong love and support for America. He served in the Tennessee Army National Guard as a major, has flown helicopters as part of his military career, and was deployed to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom before starting his surgical residency.

Dr. Romero and his wife Eva Angelina, the reigning Mrs. Nashville, currently live in Franklin, TN with their four children. Dr. Romero enjoys spending time with his family, traveling and playing basketball and soccer.  He, alongside with his four brothers, is a talented off-road Baja racer embracing the fighting spirit the sport embodies.

These unique traits, talents and interests make Dr. Romero a standout as a Nashville Top Dentist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. To learn more about Dr. Romero and Solace Oral Surgery please call (615) 320-1392 or visit solaceoralsurgery.com.

 

                                 

Understanding Anesthesia With Oral Surgery

                                           Understanding Anesthesia With Oral Surgery

Many oral surgery patients must undergo anesthesia before the procedure. Your surgeon will give you all the information you need to know for a successful operation. Always listen to your surgeon’s instructions above anything you read online. For a general background, here’s what you should know about anesthesia and oral surgery.

Types of Anesthesia

For oral surgery, your surgeon will recommend a specific type of anesthetic. Many surgeries require general anesthesia—a procedure that puts the body into a temporary induced coma. Not only are patients unconscious, but they’re also unresponsive. In this state, surgeons can easily perform all of the necessary tasks without worrying about pain management or sleep-related movements.

Aside from general anesthesia, some more routine procedures may only require semi-conscious or localized anesthetic. Semi-conscious sedation won’t render you completely unconscious. Localized anesthetic only affects a certain part of the body. Nitrous oxide may also play a role in treatment. Commonly referred to as laughing gas, this inhaled sedative delivers temporary calming effects.

 Discussing Anesthesia With Your Surgeon

For any type of anesthetic, your surgeon and anesthesiologist should have full knowledge of preexisting medical conditions and any medications you take. Some individuals react poorly to certain types of anesthesia. Tell your physician about any past experiences with anesthesia, existing allergies, and other medical information.

During your pre-operative appointment, your surgeon or a staff member will walk you through all of the anesthesiology requirements. For general anesthesia, you may need to fast for a certain period of time, stop taking some medications, and avoid using tobacco products and alcohol. Keep the written instructions regarding your requirements visible in the days leading up to the surgery. Failing to closely follow the instructions could lead to surgical complications.

 

What to Expect During General Anesthesia

When you arrive at the facility, the anesthesiologist or licensed professional should explain the process as he or she goes through the steps. Double check that you’ve followed all instructions, and ask the person administering the anesthetic to confirm the medication you discussed during your pre-operative appointment (especially if you have any allergies). After the professional administers the appropriate drug, you’ll drift out of consciousness.

 

You probably won’t remember the procedure, and the side effects from the anesthesia—including drowsiness—will wear off over time. Arrange to have someone take you to, pick you up from, and stay with you after any surgical procedure. In the days following the procedure, remember to obey your surgeon’s after-care instructions for a successful experience.

 

For additional questions, please contact Solace Oral Surgery at (615) 320-1392.