Top Tips for a Healthy Mouth in the New Year

January 10, 2020

Having a great smile is important for your self-confidence and quality of life. But a healthy mouth can benefit your health in several ways, reducing your risk of heart disease, Alzheimer’s, lung infections, and so much more. Commit to improving your health this year with these tips for a healthy mouth. Drink More Water Drinking soda and coffee can stain your teeth and eat away...
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3 Types of Anesthesia Used During Oral Surgery

December 18, 2019

Oral surgery, especially when anesthesia is used, can be an intimidating prospect for many people. However, when it is administered by a trained and certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, anesthesia is safe and helps relieve the anxiety and pain of oral surgery. Three main types of anesthesia are commonly used in oral surgery: local anesthesia, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. Always be sure to follow...
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The Top 5 Reasons People See An Oral Surgeon In Nashville

December 3, 2019

Wondering when you may need to see an oral surgeon in Nashville like the team at OMSNashville instead of a general or family dentist? Below is a list of the top 5 most common reasons that people may need to see a specialist for oral surgery in Nashville. To Treat An Impacted Tooth When a tooth is “impacted,” this means it has not fully erupted...
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CT Scans in Dentistry

January 11, 2017

In routine dentistry, professionals order x-rays to evaluate the jawbone, crowns, and the roots of your teeth. They allow doctors to identify and diagnose problems beneath the skin’s surface. CT scans provide three-dimensional imaging to give your doctor a usable blueprint of your oral and maxillofacial structure. What is a CT Scan? CT or computed tomography scans offer medical professionals a detailed and clear picture...
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Serving Special Needs Patients

November 16, 2016

Good oral health is important for everyone, including people with special needs. Unfortunately, patients suffering from conditions such as dementia, autism, Down syndrome, paralysis, or any number of other special needs do not receive appropriate dental care because of the unique challenges presented by their health conditions. A great dentist or oral surgeon can brainstorm with these patients or their caregivers to come up with...
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10 Most Damaging Habits to Teeth

October 5, 2016

Teeth are tough protrusions of bone, but they are far from indestructible. Normal wear and tear can break them down, but this can be prevented with good oral hygiene habits. Bad habits can accelerate the normal rate of tooth decay or cause damage directly. Dental Habits to Avoid There are many surprising ways people damage their teeth. Some everyday habits can chip teeth, cause impactions,...
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Top Tips for Patients Having Oral Surgery

October 1, 2017

If you’re having oral surgery, you’re probably nervous about the whole process. Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety and help both the procedure and your recovery go more smoothly. Prepare yourself and your family with these suggestions. Talk to Your Dentist or Oral Surgeon When your healthcare provider first recommended the procedure, you might have agreed it was necessary, but not yet had time...
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Team Spotlight: Dr. Kevin West

March 2, 2018

Get To Know Dr. Kevin West How long have you been an oral surgeon? 11 years What inspired you to become an oral surgeon? I learned about the specialty by shadowing partners in my practice while attending college.  I liked the varied procedures and the ability to provide such a positive impact for patients. What do you enjoy most about being an oral surgeon?  The...
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Lowering the Risk of Tooth Loss

July 9, 2018

For children, losing teeth is a normal part of life. In fact, many families celebrate this rite of passage with fables of fairy visitors who leave money or trinkets in exchange for the lost teeth. When adults lose teeth, however, it’s often seen as cause for embarrassment rather than celebration. This is because tooth loss in adulthood isn’t the result of new teeth growing in...
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How Your Mouth Impacts Your Life

September 26, 2017

Have you ever wondered how important your mouth is to your quality of life? Taking care of your mouth doesn’t just keep your teeth white and your breath fresh. Oral hygiene affects your health, your confidence, and how others see you. Here’s why taking care of your mouth is so important. Mouth Health Affects Heart Health Bacteria growth below the gum line causes periodontal disease....
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How to Pick an Oral Surgeon

August 11, 2017

While your dentist is an expert at routine care like keeping your teeth clean and filling cavities, some problems require an oral surgeon. Oral surgeons have the skill and knowledge necessary for the following: Removing diseased teeth when it requires anesthesia Repairing facial trauma Reconstructive or cosmetic surgery Surgical treatment for sleep apnea Evaluating cysts and tumors of the mouth and face Planning and placement...
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Six Tips for Oral Surgery Recovery

July 21, 2017

Modern advances in medicine and dentistry have made the process of oral surgery all but painless. Even when oral surgery is uncomplicated, there is a lengthy recovery process to endure to ensure your mouth heals properly. Here are some tips to encourage recovery: Take Recommended Medications. Your oral surgeon might prescribe you an antibiotic before and/or after surgery to eliminate or reduce the risk of...
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Pain Medication Disposal and Addiction

June 14, 2017

Over the past several years, the United States has seen unprecedented levels of drug overdoses and deaths from overdoses. While most people may assume that illegal drugs are behind this disturbing trend, this isn’t entirely correct. Prescription painkillers, particularly those made from opioids, are the primary cause of accidental death by drug overdose in the U.S. It’s imperative for citizens of Tennessee to understand this...
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A Guide to Senior Oral Health

May 19, 2017

As we get older, issues that affect our oral health can worsen. While most people know that routine health and dental care is important, they may be surprised to find that poor mouth health can increase their risk for conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to safeguard your mouth: Treat the Cause Did you know that about...
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