Category: General Dentistry

Understanding When a Dental Concern Requires Immediate Attention

Most dental problems don’t improve by waiting. What starts as a mild toothache or a small chip can quickly become an infection, severe pain, or even tooth loss if left untreated. While it’s not always easy to know whether your symptoms require immediate attention, recognizing the warning signs can help you make informed decisions about your oral health.

Every emergency appointment begins with a careful evaluation of your symptoms, a comprehensive examination, and digital X-rays when necessary. Rather than simply treating the pain, Dr. Kenneth Nash and Dr. Jonathan Nash focus on diagnosing the underlying condition so they can recommend treatment that protects both your immediate comfort and your long-term oral health.

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to contact your dentist without delay.

 Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For

1. Severe or Persistent Tooth Pain

A toothache is one of the body’s most effective warning signals. While temporary sensitivity to ice cream or hot coffee is often caused by exposed roots or worn enamel, pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse usually indicates that something more serious is happening inside the tooth.

Many people try to manage tooth pain with over-the-counter medications, hoping it will disappear on its own. Unfortunately, dental pain rarely resolves without treating the underlying cause. In many cases, delaying treatment simply allows the condition to progress.

When Tooth Pain Shouldn’t Wait

You should schedule an emergency dental appointment if your tooth pain:

• Lasts longer than 24 to 48 hours
• Prevents you from sleeping
• Makes chewing difficult
• Radiates into your jaw, ear, or neck
• Is accompanied by swelling or fever
• Continues despite pain medication

These symptoms often indicate inflammation or infection that requires professional treatment.

What Causes Severe Tooth Pain?

Several dental conditions can produce similar symptoms, which is why an accurate diagnosis is so important.

One of the most common causes is deep tooth decay. As bacteria break through the enamel and dentin, they eventually reach the dental pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. Once the pulp becomes inflamed or infected, pain can become intense and constant.

A cracked tooth may also cause significant discomfort. Some cracks are obvious after an injury, while others are microscopic and develop gradually from years of chewing, teeth grinding, or biting hard foods. Every time you bite down, the crack can flex slightly, irritating the nerve inside the tooth.

Pain may also be caused by:

• A dental abscess
• Advanced gum disease
• A damaged filling or crown
• An exposed tooth root
• Severe teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

Because these conditions require different treatments, guessing at the cause often delays appropriate care. Call Nash Family Dentistry at (601) 634-1812 to set up an emergency appointment.

2. Swollen Gums, Face, or Jaw

Swelling is your immune system’s response to inflammation or infection. While mild gum irritation from vigorous brushing may resolve within a day or two, noticeable swelling of your gums, cheek, or jaw should never be ignored.

Facial swelling is especially concerning because it often indicates that an infection has spread beyond the tooth itself and into the surrounding tissues.

Common Signs of a Dental Infection

In addition to swelling, you may notice:

• Tender or red gums
• Pain when chewing
• A bad taste in your mouth
• Drainage near a tooth
• Difficulty opening your mouth fully
• Persistent bad breath
• Fever or swollen lymph nodes

These symptoms frequently occur together when bacteria have reached the tissues beneath the gums or around the root of a tooth.

Why Dental Infections Become Serious

Unlike many minor cuts or scrapes, infections inside a tooth cannot heal on their own because the infected pulp has a limited blood supply. Once bacteria enter the root canal system, professional treatment is necessary to remove the infection and prevent it from spreading.

As the infection progresses, pressure builds inside the surrounding tissues. This pressure often causes the throbbing pain and swelling many patients experience.

Without treatment, bacteria may continue spreading into the jawbone, nearby soft tissues, or other areas of the body. While these complications are uncommon, they demonstrate why prompt dental care is so important whenever swelling develops.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

Although most dental infections can be treated safely in a dental office, certain symptoms require emergency medical attention. Seek emergency medical care immediately if swelling is accompanied by:

• difficulty breathing
• difficulty swallowing
• rapidly increasing facial swelling
• high fever

Once your condition has been stabilized, your dentist can provide any additional treatment needed to restore your smile.

3. A Knocked-Out, Loose, or Broken Tooth

Dental injuries can happen in an instant. Whether they’re caused by a sports accident, a fall, a car accident, or biting down on something unexpectedly hard, damage to a tooth should always be evaluated promptly. Even if the tooth doesn’t hurt immediately, injuries can affect the tooth’s nerve, supporting bone, or surrounding ligaments in ways that aren’t visible without a professional examination.

One of the biggest mistakes patients make is assuming that a chipped or cracked tooth can wait simply because the discomfort is minimal. In reality, small fractures often become larger over time, allowing bacteria to enter the tooth and increasing the likelihood of infection.

A Knocked-Out Tooth Is a True Dental Emergency

If a permanent tooth has been completely knocked out, acting quickly can significantly improve the chances of saving it. The tissues surrounding the root begin to deteriorate once the tooth is out of the mouth, making prompt treatment critical.

If this happens:

• Pick up the tooth by the crown, never by the root.
• Gently rinse away dirt with clean water if necessary, but do not scrub the tooth or remove any attached tissue.
• If possible, place the tooth back into its socket and gently bite down on clean gauze to hold it in place.
• If reinsertion isn’t possible, store the tooth in milk or a tooth preservation solution. If neither is available, placing it in your saliva is generally preferable to allowing it to dry out.
• Contact Nash Family Dentistry immediately so your emergency visit can be arranged as quickly as possible.

The sooner treatment begins, the greater the likelihood that the natural tooth can be successfully replanted.

A Loose Tooth Should Never Be Ignored

Adult teeth should never feel loose. After an injury, a tooth may appear intact while the supporting ligament or surrounding bone has been damaged. Even slight movement can indicate trauma that requires immediate attention.

During your visit, Dr. Kenneth Nash or Dr. Jonathan Nash will evaluate the stability of the tooth, examine the surrounding tissues, and obtain digital X-rays when appropriate. In many cases, a loose tooth can be stabilized with a temporary splint while the supporting structures heal.

Cracked or Broken Teeth Require Prompt Evaluation

Not every fracture looks dramatic. Some cracks are barely visible but extend deep into the tooth, while others remove a significant portion of the crown.

Symptoms may include:

• Pain when biting
• Sensitivity to temperature
• Sharp edges that irritate the tongue or cheeks
• Swelling around the affected tooth
• Intermittent discomfort that comes and goes

Treatment depends on the location and severity of the fracture. Minor chips may be repaired with bonding, while larger fractures often require a dental crown to strengthen and protect the remaining tooth structure. If the crack extends into the pulp, root canal therapy may be recommended before restoring the tooth. When a fracture extends below the gumline or into the root, extraction may be the healthiest long-term option.

The goal is always to preserve your natural tooth whenever possible while restoring its strength, appearance, and function.

4. Bleeding That Won’t Stop or Signs of Trauma

The mouth contains a rich network of blood vessels, so even minor injuries can produce noticeable bleeding. However, bleeding that continues despite applying pressure, especially after a fall or other accident, should never be dismissed.

Dental trauma doesn’t only affect the teeth. Injuries can involve the gums, lips, cheeks, tongue, jawbone, and supporting tissues, making a thorough evaluation essential.

When Bleeding Is a Cause for Concern

Persistent bleeding may result from:

• A deep cut to the gums
• Trauma to the lips or tongue
• A tooth that has been partially displaced
• Damage to the surrounding bone
• A severe periodontal infection

If bleeding continues after applying firm pressure with clean gauze for approximately 15 minutes, contact your dentist immediately for further guidance.

Signs That an Injury May Be More Serious

Following an accident, pay attention to symptoms beyond the obvious injury. Contact Nash Family Dentistry promptly if you notice:

• Teeth that no longer fit together properly when you bite
• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
• Jaw pain that worsens with movement
• A loose or displaced tooth
• Significant swelling
• Numbness in the lips or chin

These symptoms may indicate damage to the jaw, supporting bone, or nerves and should be evaluated as soon as possible.

5. A Dental Abscess or Pimple on Your Gums

A dental abscess is one of the most serious oral health conditions a patient can experience. An abscess is a pocket of infection that develops when bacteria invade the tissues surrounding a tooth or enter the pulp through deep decay, a crack, or advanced gum disease.

Unlike many infections elsewhere in the body, a dental abscess will not resolve on its own. Although the pain may temporarily lessen if the abscess begins draining, the infection remains active until it is professionally treated.

Common Symptoms of a Dental Abscess

The signs of an abscess can vary depending on its location and severity, but many patients experience:

• Severe, throbbing tooth pain
• Swollen gums
• Facial swelling
• A small bump or pimple on the gums
• Drainage with a salty or unpleasant taste
• Persistent bad breath
• Pain when chewing
• Fever or swollen lymph nodes

Some patients also notice that the affected tooth feels taller than the surrounding teeth because inflammation creates pressure around the root.

Why an Abscess Should Never Be Ignored

An untreated abscess can destroy the bone supporting a tooth and eventually lead to tooth loss. More importantly, the infection may continue spreading into nearby tissues if left untreated.

Prompt treatment not only relieves pain but also helps prevent complications that may require more extensive care.

What to Do While Waiting for Your Emergency Dental Appointment

When a dental emergency happens, knowing what to do before you reach your dentist can help protect your teeth and reduce discomfort. While home care cannot replace professional treatment, the right steps can prevent the problem from becoming worse while you arrange an appointment.

The most important thing you can do is contact Nash Family Dentistry as soon as you recognize a potential emergency. Even if you’re unsure whether your situation requires immediate care, speaking with a dental professional can help you determine the appropriate next steps.

While waiting for your appointment:

Manage Pain and Swelling Carefully

If you are experiencing discomfort, over-the-counter pain medication may help reduce symptoms when taken according to the directions on the label. A cold compress applied to the outside of your cheek can also help minimize swelling and provide temporary relief.

Avoid placing aspirin directly on your gums or tooth. This common home remedy can irritate the soft tissues and may cause additional discomfort.

Protect the Affected Area

Try to avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the problem is located. Eating softer foods and avoiding extremely hot, cold, or sugary items may reduce irritation until you can receive treatment.

If a tooth has broken, avoid picking at the area or attempting to repair it yourself with household materials. These temporary fixes can damage the tooth further or make professional treatment more difficult.

Handle a Knocked-Out Tooth Properly

If a permanent tooth has been knocked out, time is critical. Keep the tooth moist and avoid touching the root. Do not wrap it in a paper towel or allow it to dry out, as this can damage the cells needed for successful reattachment.

Contact Nash Family Dentistry immediately so your dental team can guide you through the next steps.

Avoid Delaying Care Because Symptoms Improve

One of the most important things to remember about dental emergencies is that symptoms can sometimes improve temporarily without the underlying problem being resolved.

For example, an infected tooth may stop hurting if the nerve inside the tooth dies. However, the infection can remain and continue affecting the surrounding tissues. A temporary reduction in pain does not always mean the problem has healed.

Don’t Wait When You Notice Signs of a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies can be stressful, but getting prompt care can make a significant difference in protecting your oral health. Severe tooth pain, facial swelling, broken or knocked-out teeth, uncontrolled bleeding, and signs of infection should never be ignored.

At Nash Family Dentistry, Dr. Kenneth Nash and Dr. Jonathan Nash are committed to providing compassionate emergency dental care for patients in Vicksburg, MS, and surrounding communities. Their team focuses on identifying the cause of your dental concern, explaining your treatment options clearly, and providing comfortable care designed to restore your oral health.

If you are experiencing a dental emergency, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Call Nash Family Dentistry at (601) 634-1812 to speak with our Vicksburg dental team and schedule an appointment. Prompt treatment can help relieve pain, protect your natural teeth, and prevent a small dental issue from becoming a more serious problem.

Dental implants are widely considered one of the most reliable ways to replace missing teeth, but the cost is often a key concern for patients in Vicksburg, MS. At Nash Family Dentistry, Dr. Kenneth Nash and his team help patients understand not only the price of treatment but also the long-term value behind restoring a healthy, functional smile. Because every case is unique, implant costs can vary significantly based on clinical needs and treatment planning.

If you are researching dental implant cost in Vicksburg, MS, this guide will break down what you can expect in 2026 and what factors influence pricing.

Average Dental Implant Cost in Vicksburg, MS (2026)

In 2026, the cost of a single dental implant in Mississippi typically ranges based on complexity and materials. National and regional data generally place a full single-tooth implant (post, abutment, and crown) in the range of:

• $3,000 to $6,000 per tooth (all-inclusive cases) (mazp.com)
• Some local estimates in Mississippi may fall slightly lower or higher, depending on the provider and treatment needs

At Nash Family Dentistry in Vicksburg, treatment is always customized, meaning your final cost is based on your specific oral health, not a one-size-fits-all price.

If you are asking how much dental implants cost in Mississippi, the answer depends heavily on bone health, restoration type, and whether additional procedures are required.

What’s Included in the Cost of Dental Implants?

A full dental implant treatment typically includes several components:

• Dental implant post (placed into the jawbone)
• Abutment (connector between implant and crown)
• Custom dental crown (visible tooth replacement)
• Imaging and treatment planning
• Surgical placement and follow-up care

Understanding this breakdown helps explain why implant pricing is higher than other tooth replacement options—but also more durable long-term.

Factors That Affect Dental Implant Cost in Vicksburg, MS

Several clinical and procedural factors influence your final treatment cost:

• Number of missing teeth being replaced
• Need for tooth extraction before placement
• Bone grafting or sinus lift procedures
• Type of restoration (single tooth vs. full arch)
• Materials used for the crown and implant
• Complexity of your oral health condition
• Time required for healing and staged treatment

Because every smile is different, a consultation is the most accurate way to determine your exact treatment plan.

Cost Breakdown by Treatment Type

Single Tooth Dental Implant

• Designed to replace one missing tooth
• Most common implant option
• Includes implant, abutment, and crown

Implant-Supported Bridge

• Used when multiple teeth are missing in a row
• Fewer implants may support multiple teeth
• Often more cost-efficient than individual implants

Full-Arch Dental Implants (All-on-4 / All-on-6)

• Replaces an entire upper or lower set of teeth
• Higher initial investment
• Designed for maximum stability and function

Are Affordable Dental Implants Really Possible?

Many patients search for affordable implants, and while implants are a premium treatment, there are ways to make them more accessible:

• Flexible financing and monthly payment options
• Health savings accounts (HSA/FSA)
• Insurance contributions toward crowns or related procedures
• Treatment staging to spread out costs over time

At Nash Family Dentistry, the goal is to help patients find a solution that balances oral health needs with financial comfort.

Why Dental Implants Are a Long-Term Investment

Although implants may cost more upfront than dentures or bridges, they are designed for durability and function:

• Can last decades with proper care
• Help prevent jawbone loss
• Do not rely on adjacent teeth for support
• Restore natural chewing ability and speech
• Improve long-term oral health stability

For many patients, implants reduce the need for repeated replacements over time.

Ways to Make Dental Implants More Affordable

Patients in Vicksburg, MS, can often reduce out-of-pocket costs by:

• Using in-house financing plans
• Reviewing insurance coverage for eligible portions
• Addressing missing teeth early to avoid bone loss
• Choosing a phased treatment plan when appropriate
• Scheduling a consultation for an accurate cost estimate

What to Expect During a Dental Implant Consultation

A consultation at Nash Family Dentistry typically includes:

• Comprehensive oral examination
• Digital imaging to assess bone structure
• Discussion of treatment options and timelines
• A personalized cost estimate
• Review of financing and payment options

This step ensures transparency and helps patients make informed decisions.

Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation in Vicksburg, MS

If you are considering dental implants and want a personalized cost estimate, the team at Nash Family Dentistry is here to help. Dr. Kenneth Nash provides comprehensive implant evaluations designed to match your oral health needs with clear, transparent treatment planning.

Call today at (601) 738-9313 to schedule your consultation at our Vicksburg dental practice and learn whether dental implants are right for you.

A Lifetime of Dental Care for Vicksburg Families

Maintaining a healthy smile is a lifelong journey, and dental needs change at every stage of life. From a child’s first tooth to a senior managing dentures, each generation requires specific care and attention. Our dental practice in Vicksburg, MS, is dedicated to supporting patients of all ages, helping families maintain optimal oral health throughout their lives.

Take the next step toward healthier smiles for every member of your family by contacting our friendly team. Whether you’re new to the area or looking for a practice that treats every generation with care, we’re here to help you feel confident about your oral health. Call (601) 738-9313 today to schedule your visit.

Early Childhood: Toddlers and Kids (Ages 1–12)

A child’s first dental visit is an important milestone that lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy habits. During these early years, parents often have questions about teething, cavities, and proper brushing techniques. Preventive treatments such as fluoride applications and sealants help protect young teeth, while gentle, patient-centered care helps children feel comfortable at the dentist. Education for both children and parents ensures that good oral hygiene routines are established from the start.

Adolescence: Teens (Ages 13–19)

As children enter their teenage years, dental needs begin to shift. Hormonal changes, diet, and lifestyle habits can impact oral health. Many teens require orthodontic care, such as braces or clear aligners, and guidance regarding wisdom teeth or sports-related dental injuries becomes important. 

Our practice provides personalized support during this stage, including regular checkups, preventive care, and advice on maintaining a strong, healthy smile during these formative years.

Young Adults (Ages 20–39)

Adults in their twenties and thirties often focus on routine cleanings, cosmetic concerns such as whitening or veneers, and managing wisdom teeth if they haven’t been addressed earlier. Lifestyle factors like diet, stress, and habits such as smoking can affect oral health. 

Regular visits allow our team to monitor for potential issues, provide restorative treatments, and offer guidance to help protect smiles for years to come.

Middle-Aged Adults (Ages 40–64)

During middle age, the risk of gum disease, tooth wear, and other dental conditions increases. Comprehensive examinations and preventive care become critical, as early detection of issues such as gum disease or oral cancer can prevent more serious complications. 

Our team provides thorough exams, periodontal care, and restorative treatments to help adults maintain their dental health and confidence throughout midlife.

Seniors (Ages 65+)

For seniors, dental care often involves managing the effects of aging on the mouth. Tooth loss, dry mouth, dentures, and other concerns are common, and maintaining proper oral hygiene is key to overall health. 

Our practice offers specialized support for seniors, including denture care, dental implants, and guidance on maintaining oral health while managing chronic conditions. These services help seniors enjoy healthy, functional smiles well into their later years.

Preventive Care Across All Ages

Preventive care is the cornerstone of lifelong oral health. Regular checkups, professional cleanings, and personalized guidance help patients avoid complications and maintain strong, healthy teeth and gums throughout their lives. 

Our practice provides the resources, treatments, and education families need to support oral health across generations.

Caring for Every Generation Starts Here

If you’re looking for a place where your family’s smiles are cared for with genuine attention and long-term support, our team is here to welcome you. Patients from Clinton, Port Gibson, and Tallulah trust us with their dental needs because they know they’ll be treated with compassion and skill at every visit. 

When you’re ready to take the next step toward a healthier smile for every generation in your family, call our Vicksburg dental office at (601) 738-9313 to schedule your appointment today.

The Great Juice Debate: What Popular Drinks Are Really Doing to Your Kids’ Teeth

The Hidden Truth About “Healthy” Drinks

Kids love to sip throughout the day, whether from a sippy cup, a water bottle, or a juice box. But this habit keeps sugars and acids in constant contact with their teeth, creating the perfect environment for cavities.

Even juices labeled “100% juice” contain natural sugars that bacteria convert into acids. These acids attack enamel again and again, especially when children sip slowly over long periods. So while natural sugars may sound better than added sugars, their effect on teeth can be nearly identical when exposure is frequent.

If you’re worried about how everyday drinks may be affecting your child’s teeth, the team at Nash Family Dentistry, home of our top-rated dentist in Vicksburg, MS, is here to help. Dr. Kenneth Nash provides guidance, prevention-focused care, and practical strategies to protect growing smiles. Have questions or want personalized recommendations? Call (601) 738-9313 to schedule your child’s visit today.

Five Juice Drinks and Their Impact on Children’s Teeth

100% Apple Juice

Apple juice is one of the most popular children’s drinks — and one of the biggest sources of hidden sugar. A typical serving contains high natural sugar levels and a low pH, which softens enamel. When kids walk around sipping apple juice for hours, their enamel never gets a break from the acid attacks.

Orange Juice

Orange juice delivers vitamins, but it also brings intense acidity from citric acid. This type of acid is especially aggressive, wearing down enamel and making teeth more sensitive. For children with thinner enamel, the effects can be quick and dramatic.

Grape Juice

Grape juice often contains the most sugar per serving. Even if it’s labeled “100% juice,” the concentration of natural sugars fuels cavity-causing bacteria. Frequent sipping makes this one of the riskiest drinks for young smiles.

Sports Drinks

Most children do not need sports drinks. Unless they’re engaging in prolonged, vigorous activity, the sugar and added acids create more problems than benefits. These drinks are very similar to sodas in terms of their effect on enamel.

Fruit Punch & Juice Boxes

These favorite lunchbox staples usually contain only a small percentage of real juice. They’re mostly flavored sugar water with a highly acidic pH. Because children tend to sip them slowly, fruit punches and juice boxes create nonstop exposure that significantly increases cavity risk.

Why Kids’ Teeth Are Especially Vulnerable

Children’s smiles have unique needs — and unique weaknesses. Dr. Kenneth Nash explains that even small daily habits can create cumulative damage that shows up months or years later.

• Baby teeth have thinner enamel, making decay spread more easily
• Sippy cups and bottles encourage slow sipping
• Young kids may not brush thoroughly
• Frequent sugar and acid exposure adds up quickly

These factors make smart beverage choices one of the simplest, most powerful ways to protect your child’s smile.

Smart Strategies to Protect Your Child’s Smile

Some ways you can safeguard your child’s oral health at home include:

• Offer water throughout the day, especially between meals
• Limit juice to four to six ounces daily
• Serve juice with meals instead of as an all-day drink
• Encourage kids to finish juice in one sitting
• Transition from sippy cups to open cups early
• Dilute the juice with water
• Have kids rinse with water after sugary or acidic drinks
• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste under supervision

The Best Beverages for Healthy Teeth

Water

Water — especially fluoridated water — is the absolute champion for children’s teeth. It washes away debris, balances pH, and strengthens enamel.

Milk

Plain milk provides calcium and other nutrients without the high acidity of juices. It’s a tooth-friendly choice for meals and snacks.

Herbal Tea

For older kids, unsweetened herbal teas offer flavor without sugar or harsh acids.

What to Watch For: Signs of Dental Trouble

Parents should stay alert for:

• White chalky spots on teeth
• Sensitivity to cold or sweet items
• Discoloration or dark spots on teeth
• Tooth pain
• Persistent bad breath
• Plaque buildup along the gumline

Early attention prevents deeper decay and helps maintain a healthy smile.

Protect Your Child’s Smile With Vicksburg’s Best Dentist

At Nash Family Dentistry, Dr. Kenneth Nash focuses on helping families in Vicksburg, MS, make informed decisions that support long-term oral health. By teaching smart drink habits and offering gentle preventive care, the practice is committed to protecting your child’s teeth at every stage.

For guidance or to schedule your child’s next visit, contact Nash Family Dentistry at (601) 738-9313. Dr. Nash and his team look forward to helping your child enjoy a healthy, confident smile.

There is not a day that goes by without the production of saliva in our mouths. From helping us to swallow food to drooling in our sleep, we cannot escape it – and we don’t want to. Saliva is a biological part of our make-up. Saliva has many jobs; one being helping us to taste food.  Saliva is made up of proteins, enzymes, mucin, and electrolytes. While saliva includes all of these items, the main percent of the make-up is water. Saliva never goes away, because we are constantly producing it. Salivary glands keep up the saliva production, and without saliva, we would not be as healthy. There are three main salivary glands, and they are located in the jaw, cheeks, and floor of the mouth. 

The American Dental Association credits saliva as being important because it:

• Fights against cavities
• Washes away food debris
• Allows you to taste and swallow
• And keeps your teeth strong

All of the aforementioned keep us healthy and aid in our oral health. Without the production of saliva, our teeth would begin to decay and our breath would begin to smell badly. Saliva also helps to not speed up the production of bacteria. Bad bacteria in the mouth also causes serious problems such as tooth decay and gum diseases. 

If you are under producing saliva, it is important to speak to your dentist. It is important to consult with your doctor. With underproduction of spit, you could be experiencing dry mouth, which can cause oral hygiene issues. Stress, medication, and smoking are some things that may cause try mouth. If you are experiencing dry mouth, try sipping on water, chewing gum and avoiding drinks with caffeine, as it dehydrates you. 

While saliva can be gross or taboo to speak about, it is such an essential part of our lives. If you are feeling dehydrated and do not believe you are producing as much saliva as you should be, seek dental help. 

 

It happens. Life throws a lot at us all at times and it can be hard to fit yet another appointment into our busy schedules. But if you want to get your dental health back on track before you develop serious issues, this is how often you should visit the dentist and these are the things you should be doing at home. And no, it’s not quite as simple as going once or twice a year.

How Often Should You Visit the Dentist for Routine Appointments?

It used to be so simple – you visit the dentist twice a year for checkups. But it turns out, that was too simple. Yes, everyone should visit the dentist at least once a year – twice a year is preferable in most cases and even more frequent visits are strongly recommended for individuals with on-going dental issues.

Individuals with early gum disease should probably visit the dentist at least twice a year, but more times may be needed to protect the progress and keep the problem from devolving into periodontitis. Those with advanced gum disease, periodontitis, will certainly need to see the dentist several times a year.

There are other high-risk groups who may need several dental appointments throughout the year to keep the need for preventive dentistry from turn into the need for restorative dentistry.

What to Do at Home
The effort you put into your oral health at home minimizes the effort your dentist in Vicksburg, MS and their staff will have to put into your oral health in the office.

Here are basic preventive dental practices you should be performing at home, every day:

• Brush twice a day for two to three minutes each time
• Floss at least once a day
• Rinse with an antiseptic oral cleanser, mouthwash, after brushing and flossing

These are long-term tips for strong dental hygiene at home:

• Replace your toothbrush, or brush head for electric brushes, every three or four months
• Visit your dentist annually and follow-up with more appointments if recommended
• Ask your dentist about preventive dental services offered and take advantage of them

Continue the Conversation with a Dentist in Vicksburg, MS

Don’t let the conversation end here. Schedule an appointment with a dentist in Vicksburg MS to get a better idea about the state of your oral health, what problems you might someday encounter and what you can do now to avoid those potential issues.