Fillings fill (hence the name) open cavities created from tooth decay, cracks, breaks, and other damage. If you have a cavity, for example, your dentist will remove the decay and seal the open space with what is known as a filling. They can perform the same type of work for cracks, breaks, and other forms of damage.

Removing the decayed part of your tooth will stop further damage from occurring, and it will also eliminate the pain or discomfort you may experience. However, if you don’t take the proper precautions, the decay can spread to surrounding teeth, causing further damage and decay. 

The biggest preventative of cavities is proper oral hygiene. Bacteria, sugary drinks and foods, unhealthy snacks, and poor brushing and flossing are the most comment factors in which cavities appear. The better care you take of your teeth, the less likely you will get cavities. However, other factors can play a role, such as family history, certain medications (especially those that cause dry mouth), receding gums, and more. 

We check for any signs of cavities or other forms of damage that may need to be fixed at every visit. If we catch the issue early, the recovery is simple and quick. If you have tooth decay and don’t visit the dentist, the damage can take much longer to mend. 

Many people don’t notice signs or symptoms of tooth decay and are shocked when we reveal they have a cavity. The most common symptoms are:

• Mouth or tooth pain
• Bad breath
• Bleeding gums
• Tooth sensitivity – especially with hot or cold food and drinks 

At Cakmes Dental Studio, we offer tooth-colored fillings to ensure your smile is healthier, stronger, and more natural-looking. These composite resin fillings are a great way to keep your smile healthy and natural-looking. They look and feel like natural teeth, and there’s no shiny, silver metal distracting from the rest of your smile. If you’ve noticed any of the above symptoms, come in for a check-up to make sure that cavities aren’t the reason why. And as always, make sure you brush and floss your teeth properly every day. Healthy oral habits are the best way to avoid cavities and keep a healthy and beautiful smile.

Every year on March 6th, we celebrate National Dentist’s Day. At Cakmes Dental Studio, we celebrate every day because we know how lucky we are to have the two best dentists in Knoxville. As a family-owned dental office, we have an incredible father-son duo with Dr. Nick and Dr. Steven Cakmes. 

Dr. Nick graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor of Arts degree in microbiology and then received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in Memphis, TN. Dr. Steven earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga and received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. 

As a way to honor their hard work, dedication, and fantastic work ethic, we have come up with a few ways to celebrate National Dentist’s Day. 

• Give a shout-out on social. Tag Dr. Nick and Dr. Steven in a thank you post or use #NationalDentistDay as a way to show your appreciation. A few kind words can go a long way in making their day even better.
• Send an email or make a quick call. Another way to make your dentist’s day is by reaching out personally. While they may be busy during business hours, when they check their voicemail or email during lunch or at the end of the day, seeing or hearing a thoughtful message is a great way to put a smile on their face. 
• Make your next appointment. A great way to applaud the hard work that Dr. Nick and Dr. Steven have put in is to put it to the test! So schedule your next cleaning or dental work appointment and come in and see them. 
• Spread the word. Another great way to celebrate the day is by letting your friends and family know that you have found the best dentist in town. We trust what our friends and family say most, and we’d be honored if you put your trust in us.

We encourage you to celebrate National Dentist’s Day with us this March 6th. Whether you give Dr. Nick or Dr. Steven a call, tag them on Facebook, or schedule your next appointment, know that you are honoring the best dentists in Knoxville. We are lucky to have such incredible patients, and we are honored that you trust us with your dentistry needs.

Good oral hygiene starts with keeping your teeth and gums healthy by practicing good dental habits. Taking a little time each day to follow some of these healthy habits is key in preventing problems down the line, such as gum disease, cavities, and more. Maintaining good oral hygiene is also the first step in ensuring that you’re in good health overall. Following these healthy dental habit tips daily and having regular checkups with your dentist are two of the best practices to keep your smile healthy and happy.

Brush Twice a Day

For most people, it’s a given that brushing your teeth is the key to good dental health. However, there are many factors involved when it comes to proper brushing techniques. First, be sure to have the correct toothbrush. Always choose toothbrushes that have been certified by the American Dental Association (ADA) and try to replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. When brushing, do so twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Use circular motions and remember to brush all sides of your teeth, as well as your tongue and inside of your mouth.

Floss Each Time You Brush

Flossing should be done every time you brush your teeth. It helps to remove any plaque or bacteria, especially in areas where your toothbrush may not reach. Flossing also reduces inflammation at the gum line and can help prevent gum disease. 

Drink Plenty of Water and Follow a Healthy Diet

What you eat and drink has a big impact on your oral and dental health. Limit the number of sugary foods and drinks you consume, as these can lead to cavities and are harmful to the enamel of your teeth. Drinking plenty of water can help rinse some of the acids from these sugary foods and drinks out of your mouth as well. 

Check-In with Your Dentist Regularly

Regular dental checkups and cleanings are necessary even for those who take the best care of their teeth. Dentists can perform thorough cleanings of your teeth to remove all possible plaque. They’ll also be able to check for any potential problems such as cavities or gum disease. Most insurance companies cover two dental checkups per year, so be sure to take advantage of this and schedule your dental appointment accordingly. 

At Cakmes Dental Studio, our number one goal is keeping patients feeling confident by ensuring that they are maintaining the best oral health possible. If you have any concerns about your teeth or gums, give our office a call to set up an appointment. In between dental checkups, be sure to follow these daily habits to promote a lifetime of good dental health!

Dental Hygiene & Your Health

Did you know October is recognized as Dental Hygiene Month? We all know that skipping brushing and flossing can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and tooth loss, but studies have shown that poor oral hygiene can affect your whole body. From heart disease to low birth rate, forgetting to take good care of your mouth can take a toll on your body.

Here are a few diseases that poor oral hygiene can play a part in:

• Cardiovascular disease
  Some studies show that bacterial infection in the mouth and gums can move into the bloodstream, attach to fatty plaques and cause inflammation in the blood vessels, increasing the risk of clots.
• Dementia 
  Some studies suggest there is a correlation between periodontal disease and increased risk of dementia. The bacteria from gingivitis may enter the brain through the nervous system or the bloodstream leading to Alzheimer’s disease.
• Diabetic complications
  Gum disease is more frequent and severe among people who have diabetes. Periodontal disease can make it harder to control blood sugar and worsen diabetic symptoms.
• Pregnancy and Birth
  A study found in the NCBI confirms that mothers with Periodontal disease tend to produce relatively low birth weights as a result of poor dental hygiene.

Now that we know what poor hygiene and periodontal disease can cause, how do we prevent it?

• Find the right toothbrush
  Brush with a soft or extra soft toothbrush because medium and hard bristles can damage enamel.
• Floss Daily
  Brushing only cleans 70% of tooth surface area leaving a whopping 30% to be reached only through flossing.
• Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings
  Tartar buildup cannot be cleaned with just regular brushing and flossing, dentists need to remove tartar buildup to prevent oral disease. They also check for oral and throat cancer.
• Brush at least twice a day for two whole minutes
  Studies show that brushing for two minutes reduces plaque considerably compared to one minute of brushing. Brush a minimum of twice daily for two minutes each for optimal oral hygiene.
• Brush more than just your teeth
  Gums, tongue, and top of your mouth also harbor bacteria so make sure to give them a good brush too.

If you think you may be experiencing periodontal disease, Cakmes Dental Studio in Knoxville is here to help. We are currently accepting new patients. Call (865) 584-6163 to schedule an appointment today!

Resources:

• https://abcnews.go.com/Health/Dental/ways-poor-dental-care-makes-sick/
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/