Ritchie Dental Group Blog

At Ritchie Dental Group, we are concerned not only with the condition of your mouth, but also with how it affects your complete physical health and general well-being. Today’s post looks at the connection between diabetes and oral health and may be of interest to Marble Falls residents with diabetes as well individuals who are trying to reduce their risk factors. Scientists have known for quite some time that people with diabetes have higher rates of gum disease. Maintaining proper blood glucose levels is the key to minimizing the risk of gum disease and related issues for those affected. Additional research is exploring the reverse relationship. In other words, whether poor oral health increases the risk of developing diabetes. Findings from a long-term study suggests that it does. “We found that over two decades of follow-up, individuals who had periodontal disease were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life when compared to individuals without periodontal disease.” -Ryan T. Demmer, PhD, MPH¹ Additional trials are exploring how tooth and gum health bumps the ability of diabetics to manage the disease. “Not only are people with diabetes more susceptible to serious gum disease, but serious gum disease may have the potential to affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of diabetes.”² If you have diabetes, it is critical that you see a dentist regularly and are enthusiastic about daily oral hygiene, proper nutrition, and other critical practices. Moreover, your success in controlling your blood glucose levels will improve your oral health and vice-versa. If you don’t have a dentist and live in Marble Falls or the greater Horseshoe Bay area, I invite you to call me, Greg Ritchie. I will perform a thorough examination and one of my hygienists will treat your teeth and gums to a professional dental cleaning. Then we will create a great plan for improving and maintaining your dental health for life. I can be an essential member of your healthcare team and will work with your medical doctor, if necessary. ¹Angelo Milone, “Does periodontal disease cause type 2 diabetes?,” Endocrine Today, November 2008, http://www.healio.com/endocrinology/diabetes/news/print/endocrine-today/%7Bacdccbd7-a2b2-4a9e-ac08-b29b53116908%7D/does-periodontal-disease-cause-type-2-diabetes, accessed August 12, 2015 ²“Diabetes and Oral Health Problems,” American Diabetes Association, September 18, 2012, http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/oral-health-and-hygiene/diabetes-and-oral-health.html#sthash.9IlHJB8l.dpuf, accessed August 12, 2015

Contact Ritchie Dental Group:

830-693-8833

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Ritchie Dental Group – Marble Falls 1000 Marble Heights Dr Marble Falls, TX 78654

Ritchie Dental Group – Brady 2001 Nine Rd Brady, TX 76825

When they are properly cared for, adult teeth can last a lifetime. If you get a loose adult tooth it is a sign that something is going on, and you should call us at Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX right away. There are a number of reasons why a permanent, adult tooth can become loose, some more serious than others. Pregnancy. Higher-than-usual levels of progesterone and estrogen during pregnancy can result in a loose tooth. The ligaments and bone holding a tooth in place can actually loosen. It’s usually temporary, but don’t assume it is. Osteoporosis. Our bones can become less dense as we age: not just the jaw, but throughout the body. If it happens in the jaw then teeth can become loose. It can happen to men and women, but is more common in women. Trauma. An impact from a collision – in an auto accident or playing sports, for example – can result in one or more loose teeth. Teeth grinding can also be enough force to loosen teeth. Any injury to the mouth might cause this, and should be considered a dental emergency. Gum Disease. Often the result of poor dental hygiene and the buildup of plaque and tarter, gum disease can be painful and also lead to loose teeth, and even tooth loss. It can be treated, but the sooner it is diagnosed the better the chances of a successful outcome. All of these issues should be taken seriously. If you notice any of them, seek help immediately. People from Burnet, Kingsland, and Meadowlakes remember Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX for emergency dentistry, and for cosmetic dentistry and other services. Call for an appointment today.

Contact Ritchie Dental Group:

830-693-8833

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Ritchie Dental Group – Marble Falls 1000 Marble Heights Dr Marble Falls, TX 78654

Ritchie Dental Group – Brady 2001 Nine Rd Brady, TX 76825

At Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX, we deliver dental miracles every day. Regardless of the number of teeth affected, we use cosmetic dentistry to re-design smiles and correct problems. Quality dental care and cosmetic dental procedures can be extremely visible. Think porcelain veneers, dental crowns, and teeth whitening. Today, however, let’s review some purposefully unseen procedures that can contribute to a healthy, brilliant smile. In today’s message, we will review three advanced cosmetic dental treatments: white fillings, invisible braces, and dental implants. White Fillings Tooth-colored fillings, white fillings, or invisible fillings are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color. These are out of strong composite resins and porcelains. If you would like to get rid of the silver amalgam fillings in your teeth, white fillings are the way. You can’t go back and clear away those cavities, but you can make the silver disappear. Invisible Braces Orthodontia has become less visible with the availability of invisible braces. Custom invisible braces are worn either over teeth or behind the teeth. Invisible braces are effective and convenient. Though they are not always the best tooth-straightening option, they have helped many people align their teeth for a compelling improvement in their smile. Dental Implants Sure, the crown of a tooth implant is clearly visible. But the important part—the component that makes them so much stronger than a dental bridge—is anchored into your jawbone. A titanium post secures your restoration to offer the look, feel, and strength of a natural tooth. If you are missing one or more teeth, think about dental implants. At Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX we are dedicated to creating appealing smiles for our valued dental patients. We provide a full menu of general, preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dental treatments including complete smile makeovers. We serve patients from the Burnet, Kingsland, and Meadowlakes areas. Call us today to schedule a consultation.

Contact Ritchie Dental Group:

830-693-8833

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Ritchie Dental Group – Marble Falls 1000 Marble Heights Dr Marble Falls, TX 78654

Ritchie Dental Group – Brady 2001 Nine Rd Brady, TX 76825

Regular brushing and flossing is essential for good dental health. But a  toothbrush can’t reach into every small groove and depression in your teeth, especially the really bumpy back teeth. That’s where sealants from Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX can be invaluable. Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the biting surfaces of the teeth. Think of them as an added layer of protection: they help to prevent cavities from forming. Studies have shown that using sealants can reduce the risk of tooth decay by nearly eighty percent! Studies also bear out that kids without dental sealants have nearly three times as many cavities as those who do. The dental sealant process if quick, painless, and straightforward. The teeth are first cleansed, and then the sealants are applied in liquid form. We use a special light to dry them. Dental sealants can last for many years, and can be re-applied  if need be. People come to Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX from Burnet, Kingsland, and Meadowlakes for family and cosmetic dentistry. Schedule an appointment today!

Contact Ritchie Dental Group:

830-693-8833

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Ritchie Dental Group – Marble Falls 1000 Marble Heights Dr Marble Falls, TX 78654

Ritchie Dental Group – Brady 2001 Nine Rd Brady, TX 76825

In decades past, doctors performed more tonsillectomies on youngsters. If you were a child with frequent sore throats, “getting your tonsils out” was a rite of passage.

A tonsillectomy was once a common procedure to treat infection and inflammation of the tonsils (tonsillitis). Today, a tonsillectomy is usually performed for sleep-disordered breathing but may still be a treatment when tonsillitis occurs frequently or doesn’t respond to other treatments. Mayo Clinic

In this article from us at Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX we will talk about tonsil infections. Your tonsils sit at the base of the tongue, one on each side. They are small masses of lymphoid tissue.. As such, they are part of your immune system. Tonsils are made of infection-fighting tissue known as lymphocytes, but, in many cases, tonsils aren’t really that successful at their job of germ killing and ridding the body of toxins. Adenoids are made up of similar tissue but are located behind the nasal cavity. Tonsils have many areas where dead cells, mucus, and bacteria can become trapped. If this debris accumulates and becomes concentrated, white formations can occur. In rare cases, it hardens and becomes a tonsil stone or tonsillolith. Tonsil infection is characterized by:

Bad breath Sore throat Difficulty swallowing Ear pain Swelling of tonsils

Some children have persistent tonsil infections that eventually require surgical removal of the tonsils. If your child complains of throat pain, it’s vital to discuss treatment with your dentist or doctor. If your son or daughter has frequent sore throats, ask your physician to check their tonsils. Young children may have difficulty describing where the pain is coming from. Regular visits with a pediatrician are for your child. Regular dental check-ups are just as critical. Your pediatric dentist can determine if the mouth pain is the result of a sore throat or dental issue. Come check us out. We at Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX serve patients from Burnet, Kingsland, and Meadowlakes and also perform cosmetic dentistry and restorations.

Contact Ritchie Dental Group:

830-693-8833

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Ritchie Dental Group – Marble Falls 1000 Marble Heights Dr Marble Falls, TX 78654

Ritchie Dental Group – Brady 2001 Nine Rd Brady, TX 76825

At Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX we take jaw pain seriously. Persistent jaw pain could be an indication of a treatable condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder. The temporomandibular joints are among the most complex in the human body. Usually shortened to “TMJ,” they’re the muscles, tendons, and bones that connect the jaw to the skull. The TMJ is a hinge joint that allows free movement so that we can move it not just up and down, but from side to side. That’s how we grind food between our teeth. TMJ Pain When TMJ disorder occurs it can be painful to bite or chew, or even to talk. In addition, you may notice:

• clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
• Swelling on the sides of the face
• Headaches
• Ear pain
• Stiff or sore jaw muscles

Jaw pain may be one one or both sides of the jaw. It may be the result of an injury; from misaligned teeth; it may be the result of clenching the teeth. It may also seem to come out of nowhere. What To Do? If you suspect your jaw pain is TMJ disorder, you can find short-term relief using ice packs on the affected area. Over-the-counter pain relievers are also good. You can also choose softer foods, don’t chew gum, and try massaging the area that hurts. For the longer term, consider a professional diagnosis and treatment, like what we provide at Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX. We have treated patients throughout Burnet, Kingsland, and Meadowlakes, who also come to us for dental implants and much more. Call us to schedule an appointment today!

Contact Ritchie Dental Group:

830-693-8833

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Ritchie Dental Group – Marble Falls 1000 Marble Heights Dr Marble Falls, TX 78654

Ritchie Dental Group – Brady 2001 Nine Rd Brady, TX 76825

We at Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX know here is nothing that influences your smile as much as your eating habits. Develop good eating habits and your  dentist will smile down on you too. Patients would do well to follow the example of a dentist in what and how they eat. 1. Rinse after eating Rinse your mouth with a drink of water or brush your teeth after a meal. Marble Falls folks who snack all day long prolong tooth exposure to sugars and food debris. Planned meals with brushing in between keeps your oral health on top. 2. Avoid sugary gum Sugar free gum doesn’t leave sugar to break down on your teeth and spoil your hard earned healthy gums. If you are one of the many  gum chewers, do your teeth a favor and go sugarless. 3. Avoid sticky foods Sticky foods have a habit of clinging to your teeth with stronger chances for decay. Toffee, gummy candy, fruit snacks, even dried fruit can be problematic for  smiles. Brushing doesn’t always remove the obstinate particles. 4. Consume nutritious foods A balanced diet with a variety of vitamins and minerals can keep the immune system strong and able to fight infection. 5. Consume cheese Cheese contains calcium and protects from acid that breaks down tooth enamel. 6. Avoid acidic foods Acid will eat away enamel over time: lemons, red wine, soda pop. Minimize direct, constant, consistent exposure. All things in moderation. If you have concerns about enamel damage that’s already taken place on your teeth, need help with crooked, chipped or missing teeth, or just need to get in for a check up, we at Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX are here to help. We serve patients from Burnet, Kingsland, and Meadowlakes. We’ll answer your questions about sedation dentistry, general dentistry, and porcelain veneers. We know braces, veneers, dental implants, oral sedation, and the cost of cosmetic dentistry and can answer your concerns. We help alleviate your worries and bring you to a place of knowledge and power. Make an appointment to discuss your dental goals.

Contact Ritchie Dental Group:

830-693-8833

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Ritchie Dental Group – Marble Falls 1000 Marble Heights Dr Marble Falls, TX 78654

Ritchie Dental Group – Brady 2001 Nine Rd Brady, TX 76825

Quality Dental Care: A Responsible Investment Restorative and cosmetic dentistry options at Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX might seem like a frivolous and ultimately unnecessary expense. After all, aren’t routine dental checks and the occasional drill-and-fill enough to maintain a smile? In the best of cases, this can be true. However, for a large number of patients, cosmetic and restorative options are as much an investment in their dental health as they are an aesthetic solution. Cosmetic and Restorative Procedures For Dental Health Below you will find a list our team has compiled that defines some cosmetic and restorative treatments. More importantly, it highlights their respective dental health benefits.

• Teeth whitening, as the name suggests, consists of applying a bleaching gel to your teeth that surpasses any over-the-counter or store-bought product. Though used most often to remove stains, it has the additional health benefit of giving you a clean slate and keeping bacteria at bay – at least for a while. You can maintain this boost in enamel health with proper brushing and flossing.
• Dental implants, while aesthetically significant in their tooth replacement capacity, can also be a boon to your overall oral health. Filling in gaps in your teeth can prevent other healthy teeth from sliding into place and misaligning your smile.
• Treatments like dental crowns and bridges add structure and stability to your jaw. Enamel that is worn away never grows back, so these top-of-the-line restorations can help rebuild your smile and prevent future damage.
• Porcelain veneers aren’t just about brightening and beautifying the fronts of your teeth – they also fortify your teeth so they can better fight bacteria from sugars and acids in your food. They can eve help straighten slightly crooked teeth, so they serve an orthodontic role as well!

Words like cosmetic and restorative are just that: words! They are categories created to distinguish between dental techniques, but you should never take their names as a complete definition of their purpose. All of these treatments have the potential to improve your dental aesthetics and your overall oral health. You don’t have to choose! At Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX, you can have both! Patients from Burnet, Kingsland, and Meadowlakes also come to us for general dentistry and state of the art laser dentistry. Contact us at Brady or Marble Falls today!

Contact Ritchie Dental Group:

830-693-8833

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Ritchie Dental Group – Marble Falls 1000 Marble Heights Dr Marble Falls, TX 78654

Ritchie Dental Group – Brady 2001 Nine Rd Brady, TX 76825

Chronic bad breath can happen even when you do everything right: brushing and flossing after meals, using mouthwash, and having regular checkups at Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX.

If you are doing everything right but still coping with bad breath, don’t make any changes right away. Brushing longer and more forcefully isn’t likely to make much of a difference. In fact, brushing too vigorously is dangerous to gums and contributes to gum recession.

Ordinary bad breath is usually caused by the things we eat and drink. Food debris builds up on the teeth and forms plaque, which is bacterial. The best defense against it is to brush and floss after every meal.

Whatever the cause, you don’t have to live with bad breath. The best thing to do is to let us know. At Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls and Brady TX, we help patients from Burnet, Kingsland, and Meadowlakes with effective brushing and flossing. Our services include general and restorative dentistry. Contact us today!

Contact Ritchie Dental Group:

830-693-8833

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Ritchie Dental Group – Marble Falls
1000 Marble Heights Dr
Marble Falls, TX 78654

Ritchie Dental Group – Brady
2001 Nine Rd
Brady, TX 76825