5 Questions New Patients Ask About Intraoral Scanners—Answered
Have questions about intraoral scanners? Dr. Breanna Costa answers the 5 most common questions new patients ask at Knoxville Smiles. Book your visit today!
Have questions about intraoral scanners? Dr. Breanna Costa answers the 5 most common questions new patients ask at Knoxville Smiles. Book your visit today!
If your jaw clicks or pops when you open your mouth, chew, or yawn, it is not always a sign that something is wrong. Many people experience occasional jaw clicking without pain or other symptoms. However, if the clicking becomes frequent, painful, or makes it difficult to move your jaw, it is time to have it evaluated. Early care can help prevent discomfort from getting worse and protect the health of your jaw joints. Why Does Your Jaw Click? Your jaw moves through a joint called the temporomandibular joint, which connects your lower jaw to your skull. A clicking sound … Continue reading
Stop small cavities now before they become root canals in Farragut. Dr. Michael Costa at Knoxville Smiles helps you prevent costly dental problems. Book today!
If your gums are pulling away from your teeth, you may wonder whether you need treatment or if the problem will resolve on its own. The answer depends on how much gum tissue has receded and whether it is affecting your oral health. A gum graft is often recommended when gum recession exposes the tooth roots, causes sensitivity, increases the risk of decay, or continues to worsen. A dental exam is the best way to determine whether this procedure is the right option for you. What Is Gum Recession? Gum recession happens when the gum tissue surrounding a tooth gradually … Continue reading
Pain when chewing or biting is usually caused by tooth decay, a cracked tooth, an infection at the root of a tooth, gum disease, a TMJ (jaw joint) disorder, or a bite that is not aligned properly. Symptoms often include sharp zaps when pressure is applied, a dull lingering ache, jaw clicking, or even pain that spreads toward the ear or temple. Treatment ranges from fillings and crowns to gum therapy and custom oral appliances, depending on what is driving the problem. Common Causes & Symptoms Identifying where the pain starts helps narrow down the real issue and guides treatment. … Continue reading
Getting a confident smile takes more than just treatment in the dental chair. What happens after plays a big role in how long those results last. Many people don’t realize that small daily habits can slowly affect even the most advanced dental work. From what you eat to how you care for your teeth at home, everything adds up. If you have invested in improving your smile in Knoxville or are considering it, knowing what to avoid can help you protect that investment for years. Everyday Habits That Can Interfere With Smile Results Even strong dental work can be affected … Continue reading
A small cavity may not seem urgent at first. You might not feel pain, notice visible damage, or think much about it during your day. But tooth decay does not stay in one place. Once it starts, it continues to spread deeper into the tooth over time. What begins as a minor issue can eventually lead to infection, severe discomfort, and even tooth loss if left untreated. Knowing how cavities progress can help you take action before the problem becomes more difficult to treat. How a Cavity Gets Worse Over Time Stage 1: Early Enamel Damage Cavities usually begin when … Continue reading
A small chip in a tooth may not seem like a big deal at first. But once you notice it every time you smile, speak, or look in the mirror, it can quickly become frustrating. Uneven edges, visible cracks, and worn enamel can also affect how your teeth feel when you bite or chew. These issues are common, and many people spend years hiding their smiles because they assume the damage cannot be corrected easily. Modern cosmetic dentistry offers several ways to improve the shape and appearance of teeth while still keeping the results natural-looking. Whether the concern comes from … Continue reading
Swollen gums can make simple daily habits feel uncomfortable. You may notice tenderness while brushing, irritation when eating, or redness around the gumline. In many cases, gum swelling develops because of plaque buildup, trapped food particles, irritation, or the early stages of gum problems. The good news is that mild swelling often improves with the right care at home. Knowing what helps and what can make the irritation worse can speed up healing and protect your oral health. Common Reasons Gums Become Swollen Gum irritation can happen for several reasons, including: Plaque buildup along the gumline Food trapped between teeth … Continue reading
Preventing dental problems often comes down to a few simple habits. Taking care of your teeth daily, protecting them from damage, and avoiding harmful habits can greatly reduce the risk of sudden pain or unexpected oral health issues. Small preventive steps today can help you avoid stressful dental situations later. 1. Maintain a Strong Daily Oral Care Routine Daily oral hygiene helps keep your teeth and gums healthy while lowering the risk of decay and infection. Brush Twice a Day Brush your teeth every morning and night using fluoride toothpaste. Clean all surfaces of your teeth carefully instead of rushing … Continue reading
