tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71835485193145693342024-03-14T00:16:18.212-07:00Garrison Family DentistryDr. Garrison has been practicing in Smithville for 15 years. Since he began practicing dentistry, Dr. Garrison has kept up to date on many continuing educational classes, ensuring that his patients receive the most comprehensive and advanced dental care. Currently a member of the American Dental Association, Missouri Dental Association, Greater Kansas City Dental Association, and past-president of the Clay-Platte Dental Society.Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.comBlogger168125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-40456590523476358642018-09-17T14:01:00.001-07:002018-09-17T14:01:58.447-07:00Periodontal Maintenance<p>In its most advanced stages, gum disease can lead to gum recession, and even tooth loss. Garrison Family Dentistry wants to make sure it never gets to that point for you and your family! When plaque builds up on a tooth, the gum starts to pull away from the tooth and form a pocket around the buildup, which only leads to more gum recession. A scaling and root planing procedure is used to treat this buildup and prevent the later stages of gum disease.</p><br /><p>Scaling and root planning are two parts of a deep cleaning procedure your dentist can perform to help reverse the progress of gum disease. The procedure beings with scaling, which is the process of the dentist removing plaque from the surface of the teeth, all the way down to the gums. Root planing is the term for any minor contouring to smooth the surface of a tooth near the root. When plaque has been removed and the tooth root has been smoothed, the gums that have pulled away will have a clean, smooth surface to reattach to as they heal.</p><br /><p>To learn more about deep periodontal cleaning and all the other treatments provided at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-43690423487309471412018-09-12T13:01:00.001-07:002018-09-12T13:01:29.795-07:00Drink Water For Oral Health<p>Drinking water is important for your health at all ages. Garrison Family Dentistry sees adult patients that are guilty of not drinking enough water, so we know it can be tough to monitor if kids are getting enough too. We want to encourage you and the kids in your family to stay hydrated and healthy!</p><br /><p>We all know kids love drinking juice and soda, but we forget that these beverages leave unwanted sugar behind on the teeth. The type of bacteria that causes cavities feeds on sugar, and produces acid that wears away enamel. Enamel is not replaceable, so it’s important to take care of it even from a young age. When kids drink juice or soda, it is helpful just to drink some water afterwards to dilute acids and wash away food particles and residue. You and your children should be drinking at least eight 8oz glasses of water each day. Drinking tap water with fluoride is important to help prevent cavities. If you’re worried that your children may not be drinking enough water, come see us to discuss tips that might help them drink more!</p><br /><p>To learn more about oral health and the services provided at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-86369087237682004042018-08-14T13:31:00.001-07:002018-08-14T13:31:42.540-07:00Dental Crowns<p>A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth – to cover the tooth to restore its shape and size, strength, and improve its appearance. Dental crowns have many uses, such as being able to “cap” a damaged tooth or cover an implant. They can also be used to attach bridges, protect a weak tooth from breaking, or restore one that’s already broken. To discuss dental crowns with one of our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry, schedule a consultation today.</p><br /><p>If you have a tooth that has been weakened due to decay, a desire to restore a broken tooth that has been severely worn down or simply wish to enhance the aesthetics of your smile, then you may be a candidate for a dental crown. Dental crowns are fixed prosthetic devices that one of our doctors cements onto existing teeth or implants. There are several types of materials that can be used for dental crowns and our doctor will discuss them during your consultation.</p><br /><p>If you have questions about restorative or cosmetic dentistry, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.<strong> </strong></p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-69417755966903512612018-08-11T14:30:00.001-07:002018-08-11T14:30:12.279-07:00Preventive Oral Care <p>As adults, we may think that our years of proper brushing and flossing are behind us, but that’s not true. In fact, because we are adults, our oral care routine is more important than ever. According to the American Dental Association, preventive measures in dental treatment are intended to defend the onset of disease. For a refresher in taking care of your teeth, you should visit our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry every six months for a professional cleaning.</p><br /><p>Swollen and bleeding gums are early signs that your gums are infected with bacteria. If nothing is done, the infection can spread. While regular dental exams are necessary to remove tartar and detect early signs of gum disease, oral health begins properly caring for your teeth and gums at home. Measures you can take to prevent gum disease and keep your teeth for a lifetime include brushing your teeth for two to three minutes twice a day along the gum line, floss daily, maintain a healthy diet, avoid cigarettes and tobacco and exercise preventive care.</p><br /><p>If you have questions about preventive oral care, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.<strong> </strong></p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-57533286887721871732018-07-14T13:31:00.001-07:002018-07-14T13:31:43.060-07:00Digital X-rays Benefit Patients<p>The field of dentistry is constantly evolving and our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry are keeping up with the changes by utilizing digital X-rays in the office. Digital X-rays take less time than film X-rays and have better quality viewing options for the doctor and the patient. In addition to these benefits, digital X-rays also use 70% less radiation than traditional film X-rays.</p><br /><p>Digital X-rays provide less discomfort, detect problems sooner, and offer less time in the dental chair for the patient. Additional patient advantages include avoidance of chemical processing errors, which means that our doctors will be able to take a closer look at the teeth and surrounding structures with astounding accuracy. Additionally, with digital X-ray equipment, X-ray images are instantly stored and ready to view on the computer so you and the doctor can take a closer look at what’s going on in your mouth.</p><br /><p>If you have questions or concerns about advancements in dental technology, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-54247341240513242242018-06-28T13:01:00.001-07:002018-06-28T13:01:28.263-07:00Bridges<p>Bridges are one of our specialties at Garrison Family Dentistry in Smithville. When people need extensive restorative work done, bridges allow multiple teeth to be restored at once. Depending on an individual patient’s needs, there are several forms a bridge might take.</p><br /><p>A bridge is a prosthetic device made up of several crowns. The classic dental bridge was designed so that the crowns on its ends would be cemented over natural teeth, and there would be an additional artificial crown suspended between them. This design had the advantage of allowing patients to keep their natural tooth roots, which was good for the structure of their jaw and avoided lengthy surgical recoveries. However, it required the base crowns to be significantly reshaped, which is only ideal in circumstances in which those crowns would need to be replaced anyway.</p><br /><p>Bridges can also be made in the form of partial dentures. These devices may clasp onto existing teeth, but they permit healthy intervening teeth to simply be left alone, instead of being extracted or reshaped. A partial denture may be supported by mini-implants. A bridge may also be supported by normally-sized implants if it is not meant to be removable.</p><br /><p>Dr. Matthew Garrison operates at Garrison Family Dentistry, 14790 N. 169 Highway, Smithville, Missouri, 64089. To schedule an appointment, call 816-532-8778 or visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>GarrisonDentistry.com</a> and fill out a <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/contact_information/'>contact sheet</a>.</p><br /><p> </p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-63390609016527196212018-05-19T13:31:00.001-07:002018-05-19T13:31:44.950-07:00Tooth Sensitivity<p>If you drink hot and cold beverages with caution to avoid tooth pain, you may be a victim of dentin hypersensitivity. Also known as tooth sensitivity, this occurs when the enamel that protects our teeth grows thinner, or because gum recession has begun, exposing the underlying dentin. When the dentin is exposed, enamel no longer has a layer of protection. When this happens, our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry will need to address the problem.</p><br /><p>Tooth sensitivity can range from mild to severe. It’s one thing to wince at a hot cup of coffee, but it’s another to breathe in cold air and feel the chill in your tooth root. Causes of tooth sensitivity include, but are not limited to, overzealous brushing, lack of oral care, or tooth erosion from a diet that is highly acidic. Proper oral hygiene is the key to preventing tooth pain. It’s important to visit our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry to get your sensitivity under control.</p><br /><p>If you have questions or concerns regarding tooth sensitivity, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-65672747711538318312018-05-09T14:30:00.001-07:002018-05-09T14:30:11.977-07:00Teeth Whitening<p>Patients of Garrison Family Dentistry are always asking our doctors about the best way to get to their whitest smile. Everyone likes to make a great impression with a nice smile and we are excited to <span style='color: black;'>offer an at-home whitening option to patients with serious staining to the teeth, and those with minor stains who want to achieve a bright, white smile.</span></p><br /><p><span style='color: black;'>A consultation can help you determine how severe your stains are and what kind of results you can expect from a whitening treatment. To whiten your teeth at home, we outfit patients with whitening gel and a set of custom trays for application. A dentist takes an impression of your teeth, and from this impression two custom trays are made for your top and bottom teeth. </span></p><br /><p><span style='color: black;'>The trays are made for you to take home and use by applying gel to the trays and then fitting them over your teeth. The dentist’s recommendation of how often to treat and how long each treatment should last may vary. When following the dentist’s recommendations, most patients see results of teeth whitening 4-8 shades.</span></p><br /><p>To learn more about teeth whitening and all the services we offer, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-19307733442845693382018-04-25T14:01:00.001-07:002018-04-25T14:01:59.929-07:00Cosmetic Services to Improve Your Smile<p>If your teeth are yellow in color, or if you have chips, cracks, or fractures in the teeth, our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry have a variety of cosmetic services to help improve the appearance of your smile. Cosmetic dental services are designed to enhance a patient’s smile while restoring the teeth and gums to their natural function. Allow us to educate you on the different types of services we provide at our practice.</p><br /><p>If you are unhappy with the aesthetics of your smile, it’s best to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors so that he or she can assess your needs and perform an oral exam. Cosmetic dental services such as veneers, crowns, teeth whitening, or tooth-reshaping, are designed to improve the overall look of a tooth (or several teeth) but also assist in improving a tooth’s function as well. Our doctors are skilled to answer any questions you may have about the techniques used to improve your smile.</p><br /><p>If you have questions or concerns regarding cosmetic services, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-89085449872752583192018-04-21T13:31:00.001-07:002018-04-21T13:31:43.192-07:00Don’t Delay Dental Treatment<p>There’s a reason why patients are supposed to visit the dentist twice a year and that is to prevent dental diseases such as periodontal disease, tooth decay, oral infections, and oral discomfort in general. If you notice that your teeth are lackluster, or if your breath is less than fresh, it’s time to visit our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry. By choosing to delay dental treatment, you are only causing your oral health, and your wallet, more harm.</p><br /><p>If you don’t practice proper oral care habits, or avoid visiting the dentist for a professional cleaning and oral exam, you are putting your oral health and overall health in jeopardy. The mouth is the window to your overall health, so excessive tooth decay can take a toll on your immune system as well as your cardiovascular system. Additionally, avoiding the dentist when something is wrong could lead to potential tooth loss. If you want to keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime, seek dental treatment immediately.</p><br /><p>If you have questions or concerns regarding oral care or dental health, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-25150704041705917772018-03-27T14:01:00.001-07:002018-03-27T14:01:58.309-07:00NTI Night Guard<p>If you suffer from frequent headaches, jaw-joint pain, or notice your grinding and clenching your teeth, an NTI night guard may be the solution for you. At Garrison Family Dentistry, we utilize the NTI night guard to alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions or eliminate them completely. If you have exhausted all of your options, or haven’t sought treatment at all, consider scheduling a consultation with one of our doctors to see if this is the right method for you.</p><br /><p>The NTI night guard is a small plastic device that is designed to prevent headaches and migraines that are caused by the clenching of the teeth. The objective of this device is to relax the muscles that cause this to happen. At Garrison Family Dentistry, one of our doctors will take an impression of the teeth to custom-fit your night guard. Once yours has been fabricated, you will wear it over the two front teeth at night to prevent contact with the canines and molars.</p><br /><p>If you would like to discuss the NTI night guard, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-1212161528365586612018-02-27T14:01:00.001-08:002018-02-27T14:01:57.991-08:00Break Your Bad Oral Habits<p>If you open packages with your teeth, bite your nails or suck your thumb when you’re anxious, you are likely wrecking your teeth without even knowing it. Habits such as these can damage your teeth over time, and increase your chances of cracking, chipping or fracturing a tooth. Our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry want you to keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime, so if you practice any of these detrimental habits, it’s time to break them, immediately.</p><br /><p>If you’re a nail-biter, this nervous habit can impact your jaw just as much as it impacts your teeth. This is because placing your jaw in a protruded position for a long period of time can put unnecessary pressure on it. Using your teeth as a tool can easily crack teeth because all it takes is one wrong move for the enamel to break. Teeth clenching and grinding will also cause jaw pain, an improper bite, and may cause crooked teeth. If bruxism is detected, our doctors may suggest a mouth guard to protect the teeth.</p><br /><p>If you have questions or concerns regarding oral care or dental health, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-85976813318746117912018-02-08T13:01:00.001-08:002018-02-08T13:01:29.785-08:00National Children's Dental Health Month<p>We provide dental cleanings to people of all ages at Garrison Family Dentistry in Smithville, and we’re proud to have educated so many children about their oral health. February is designated by the American Dental Association as National Children’ Dental Health Month, and this year, dentists are focusing on teaching why and how to use fluoridated toothpaste.</p><br /><p>Just because baby teeth fall out doesn’t mean decay will be any less painful if they aren’t kept clean. When children suffer from dental infections, their speech development, eating, sleeping, behavior, and academic performance all suffer. Fluoride treatments at our office can help prevent this, but regular use of fluoridated toothpaste also helps to shield teeth from acid caused by bacteria. We recommend that parents begin brushing their child’s teeth as soon as the first one erupts. As children age, their oral hygiene becomes one of the first aspects of their health that is their own responsibility, which prepares them for a lifetime of making self-care a habit. The only thing to look out for with fluoridated toothpaste is to not use it on oral appliances since they lack the protective film teeth have. These should be brushed with a different toothbrush, as well.</p><br /><p>Dr. Matthew Garrison operates at Garrison Family Dentistry, 14790 N. 169 Highway, Smithville, Missouri, 64089. To schedule an appointment, call 816-532-8778 or visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>Garrison Dentistry</a> and fill out a <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/contact_information/'>contact sheet</a>.</p><br /><p> </p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-77696190459490245982018-01-30T14:01:00.001-08:002018-01-30T14:01:57.915-08:00Risks of Impacted Wisdom Teeth<p>Wisdom teeth earn their name because they are the third set of molars to erupt around the ages of 17-22. When wisdom teeth are impacted, this means that they don’t have enough room to emerge or develop normally. Impacted wisdom teeth can result in pain, damage to the surrounding teeth, and other dental problems, such as infection. This is why our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry recommend extraction, to prevent future problems.</p><br /><p>Impacted wisdom teeth may leave a patient with swollen and tender gums, jaw pain, bad breath, or difficulty opening the mouth. Some patients, however, may experience no symptoms at all. Impacted wisdom teeth will also cause problems in the mouth, such as cysts, decay, or periodontal disease. If your wisdom teeth are still intact, it’s best to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors to discuss extraction before any of these symptoms develop. </p><br /><p>If you have questions or concerns regarding wisdom teeth extractions, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-63138814019567589332017-12-05T14:30:00.001-08:002017-12-05T14:30:11.881-08:00Post-Operative Care<p>Whether you’ve undergone oral surgery for dental implants or tooth extractions, our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry will give you a list of instructions to follow post-operation. It’s important to follow every step because if you don’t, you risk your stitches coming undone; making the healing process longer than it needs to be. Just in case you decide to toss your instructions in the trash, here’s a reminder to take it easy after oral surgery.</p><br /><p>It’s important to maintain the extraction site during healing to avoid infection and continued pain. Keep the extraction site clean by applying necessary gauze and using a rinse that the doctor will give you. On your first day of surgery, you should lay in bed to rest, as daily activities can increase bleeding, swelling, and pain. If you experience increased swelling, apply ice as needed. If something arises that is a cause for concern, don’t hesitate to call the office.</p><br /><p>If you have questions or concerns regarding tooth extraction or post-operative care, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-59207189890249794272017-12-02T14:01:00.001-08:002017-12-02T14:01:57.901-08:00Banish Bad Breath<p>It’s one thing to have bad breath after drinking a cup of coffee or eating a dish that is heavy on the garlic. It’s another thing to have persistent bad breath that leaves you feeling self-conscious on a daily basis. If you suffer from bad breath, our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry encourage you to review your oral hygiene habits. If you aren’t brushing for at least two minutes, twice a day, and flossing at least once a day, you are only making the problem worse.</p><br /><p>Offensive odors in the mouth indicate that something is out of balance. Symptoms depend on the underlying cause which may include dry mouth, poor dental hygiene, food, and beverages, and/or an illness. Treatment will depend on the cause but it’s important to visit our doctors twice a year for routine dental visits to ensure that you have optimal oral health. To help prevent bad breath in the meantime, eat fibrous fruits and vegetables that stimulate saliva flow and avoid smoking and alcohol.</p><br /><p>If you would like to discuss bad breath treatment options, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-37567343024689843132017-11-07T15:00:00.001-08:002017-11-07T15:00:26.724-08:00Dry Mouth Complications<p>If you often suffer from a bad taste in the mouth, or if you constantly feel dehydrated, our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry might need to treat you for being a victim of dry mouth. Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, refers to a condition in which the salivary glands in your mouth don’t produce enough saliva to keep the oral cavity moist. Decreased saliva flow can range from being a mild issue to having a major impact on your oral and overall health.</p><br /><p>If the mouth isn’t producing enough saliva, a patient may feel dryness or a feeling of stickiness in the mouth, bad breath, dry or a sore throat, and/or difficulty chewing, speaking, and swallowing. Saliva helps us chew and swallow food that we eat, when it’s lacking, it can make this everyday task a frustrating one. Treatment options may include a change in medication or recommended products that moisturize the mouth.</p><br /><p>If you would like to discuss dry mouth treatment options, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-58597408789124878802017-10-18T12:01:00.001-07:002017-10-18T12:01:38.205-07:00Dry Sockets<p>We believe in preserving teeth at Garrison Family Dentistry, but when extractions are necessary, patients are in good hands. We always make sure our patients understand how to avoid problems such as dry sockets. But if such an emergency does occur we want patients to recognize it so they can get help.</p><br /><p>Usually, sockets close within a few days of the extraction. During that time, they will be vulnerable to drying out if they are not covered by a blood clot or medicated wound dressing. This would be extremely painful and likely lead to infection. To ensure a blood clot forms, patients will need to disclose all of their medications to us, since some are known to interfere with clotting, and should also avoid smoking. Patients are further instructed not to sip through straws while the sockets are closing because the suction can tear clots loose.</p><br /><p>If patients notice the clot has become dislodged or they experience pain or dryness, they should request an immediate appointment. After cleaning the socket we can supply prescriptions for medications and dressings, which will need to be changed every few days. Complicated extractions, such as those requiring incisions and suturing, are known to result in dry sockets more frequently, and follow-up appointments to remove the sutures allow us to ensure the socket is healing correctly.</p><br /><p>Drs. Matthew Garrison and Anna Jones operate at Garrison Family Dentistry, 14790 N. 169 Highway, Smithville, Missouri, 64089. To schedule an appointment, call 816-532-8778 or visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>GarrisonDentistry.com</a> and fill out a <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/contact_information/'>contact sheet</a>.</p><br /><p> </p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-16565919936753816792017-10-11T13:32:00.001-07:002017-10-11T13:32:21.746-07:00Drink Water for Your Oral Health<p>Considering our bodies are made up of 60% of water, it’s no secret that we need it to survive. Water that contains fluoride – nature’s natural cavity – fighter does wonders for your smile, as it contains nutrients that protect our teeth from decay. At Garrison Family Dentistry, we encourage patients to consume more water instead of sugary beverages because water cleans the mouth with every sip.</p><br /><p>Fluoride in drinking water works from the outside in. This means that when we consume it through drinking water or professional fluoride treatments at the dentist office, we are helping keep our teeth cavity free. Water not only helps replenish saliva that assists in tooth decay prevention, it also fights bad breath, and prevents tooth discoloration.</p><br /><p>If you have questions or concerns regarding dental health, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-44620400834610405472017-09-13T13:31:00.001-07:002017-09-13T13:31:55.241-07:00Scaling and Root Planing<p>There are numerous reasons our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry encourage our patients to practice preventive dentistry. One of the reasons includes protecting yourself from gum disease that will lead to tooth decay and eventual tooth loss. By taking care of your teeth through dental checkups and professional cleanings you can save yourself from receiving scaling and root planing in the future.</p><br /><p>Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that has two parts. Though this method is effective in treating periodontitis, we hope your gum health never reaches this point. Scaling involves our doctor using a dental scaler to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line, while root planing smooths the tooth root and helps the gums reattach to the tooth. If you are concerned about pain during the procedure, we can discuss sedation options.</p><br /><p>If you have questions or concerns about scaling and root planing, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-30824110398679812012017-08-16T13:01:00.001-07:002017-08-16T13:01:27.920-07:00Periodontitis Prevention<p>If you’ve been told you have gingivitis, you better get to brushing to avoid periodontitis. Periodontitis is what develops if gingivitis is left untreated and unlike gingivitis, periodontitis is not reversible. This is because while gingivitis refers to gum inflammation, periodontitis refers to the destruction of gum tissue and bone. For optimal periodontal health, you should be visiting our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry for routine cleanings to prevent any forms of gum disease.</p><br /><p>Untreated periodontitis can usually result in tooth loss, so prevention is critical to your periodontal health. Periodontitis causes the gum tissue and bone to pull away from the teeth, leaving behind large pockets that collect bacteria. These pockets can lead to infection and not only put your smile at risk, but your overall health as well. If you notice that your gums are bright red or tender to touch, visit us to discuss treatment options.</p><br /><p>If you have symptoms of periodontitis, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-57725619831758082892017-07-26T13:01:00.001-07:002017-07-26T13:01:27.684-07:00Straighten Your Smile in Six Months<p>The staff of Garrison Family Dentistry sees adolescent and adult patients alike who are unhappy with the appearance of their smile. Patients may desire a perfectly straight look for their smile, but aren’t in need of braces to correct any serious orthodontic issues. We offer adult braces that can straighten teeth in the same manner as traditional braces, but without the metallic look or extended treatment time.</p><br /><p>Adult braces are an accelerated orthodontic treatment applied to achieve a cosmetic goal. They are not prescribed to treat severe misalignment, and will not correct issues with the bite or jaw. Clear brackets are used along with wires the color of natural teeth. The final look is not totally invisible, but is much more subtle than traditional silver braces and doesn’t look metallic. A typical treatment plan can be completed in only six months, and gives patients without any severe misalignment an opportunity to achieve the perfectly straight smile braces result in. The best way to determine if this treatment is right for you is a consultation with your dentist, so contact us if you want to improve your smile!</p><br /><p>To learn more about accelerated orthodontics and all the services we provide at our office, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-11663522707016827002017-07-19T12:31:00.001-07:002017-07-19T12:31:12.817-07:00Night Guards to Treat Bruxism<p>Bruxism is regular teeth grinding or clenching of the jaw. Stress can intensify bruxism, but it is most often caused by an abnormal bite or crooked teeth. Some teeth grinders consciously grind their teeth and clench their jaw, but some only do so while asleep and may not even realize it. Waking up with a dull headache or experiencing pain and stiffness in your jaw are signs you may be grinding your teeth overnight, and shouldn’t be ignored. Patients who continually grind their teeth often end up needing crowns, bridges, root canals and implants. In severe cases tooth loss can occur, and partial or complete dentures may be needed. Garrison Family Dentistry offers custom night guards to help patients overcome the negative effects of bruxism.</p><br /><p>Night guards look similar to mouth guards worn for protection during sports, but they serve a different purpose. A dentist uses an impression of your teeth to ensure a custom fit, and the night guard is manufactured in a dental lab. Wearing a custom night guard protects the surface of the teeth, and also properly aligns the jaw to improve breathing and sleep. If you think you a custom night guard could help you, please contact us.</p><br /><p>To learn more about night guards and all the services we provide at our office, visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.</p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-85376838723737814562017-07-05T13:31:00.001-07:002017-07-05T13:31:42.807-07:00Acid Reflux and Oral Health<p>At Garrison Family Dentistry, we treat the causes of toothaches as well as their symptoms. One of the most common reasons for enamel erosion is acid reflux, which is formally known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. Besides damaging the surfaces of teeth, it also weakens the gums and impedes the production of saliva.</p><br /><p>Hydrochloric acid is highly useful for digestion when in the stomach, which has mucus lining to protect it. But other body parts are not similarly protected, creating problems when the sphincter separating the stomach from the esophagus fails and acid escapes. The corrosion of tooth enamel is painful and cosmetically unpleasing, and the absence of saliva puts the mouth at risk of infection and makes it difficult for the patient to sleep or swallow.</p><br /><p>Remineralization therapies such as fluoride treatments can undo some of the harm, and patients can stimulate new saliva production by chewing gum. (We recommend sugar-free, of course.)But to prevent acid reflux, patients will have to avoid eating large meals before bed and reduce their intake of tomatoes, citrus juice, garlic, alcohol, and other highly acidic foods and drinks. They may also need to ask their primary care provider if they can switch medications which may contribute to acid reflux.</p><br /><p>Drs. Matthew Garrison and Anna Jones operate at Garrison Family Dentistry, 14790 N. 169 Highway, Smithville, Missouri, 64089. To schedule an appointment, call 816-532-8778 or visit <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/'>GarrisonDentistry.com</a> and fill out a <a href='http://www.garrisondentistry.com/contact_information/'>contact sheet</a>.</p><br /><p> </p>Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183548519314569334.post-66392949808644905522017-05-19T05:53:00.002-07:002017-05-19T05:53:12.203-07:00Oral Cancer Awareness MonthApril is Oral Cancer Awareness month, which is why our doctors at Garrison Family Dentistry want to take this opportunity to discuss the dangers of this type of cancer. Mouth cancer, or oral cancer, can develop anywhere in the mouth, including the surface of the tongue, the lips, the cheeks, and even in the tonsils. Next time you schedule your appointment with us, we encourage you to inquire about oral cancer screening. Oral cancer screening helps detect symptoms that the human eye may not see and helps our doctors stop oral cancer in its tracks.<br />
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Oral cancer can appear as a red or white patch in the mouth or as a sore that won’t heal. Other symptoms may include bleeding in your mouth, loose teeth, problems eating, speaking, or swallowing, and/or a lump in the neck. Oral cancer screenings are quick and painless and help detect oral cancer in its earliest stages when it’s the most treatable. Treatment will depend on the patient, but methods may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.<br />
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If you have questions or concerns about oral cancer, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit <a href="http://www.garrisondentistry.com/" mce_href="http://www.garrisondentistry.com/">www.garrisondentistry.com</a> for more information. To schedule an appointment with Garrison Family Dentistry here in Smithville, MO, call 816-532-8778.Garrison Family Dentistryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09695579887090587331noreply@blogger.com0