Meadowbrook Dentistry Blog

Why Chewing on Ice is a Bad Idea

July 18, 2023

Woman standing outside chewing on an ice cube

When you finish your drink, do you ever find yourself automatically reaching into the cup and picking up an ice cube or two to chew on? Plenty of people fall into this habit before they know it, especially during the summer. On the surface, it may seem harmless and can even be a handy way to cool off. However, the reality is that it could lead to a dental emergency if you aren’t careful. Your dentist is here to explain the dangers of chewing on ice and how you can stop yourself from doing it.

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The Truth about Pain and Root Canals

June 6, 2023

dentist holding a model of a decayed tooth

When people talk about the dental procedures that patients dread the most, root canals somehow always top the list. For some reason, they’ve gotten a reputation as painful, invasive procedures that leave patients wincing.

It may be a good idea to have an honest conversation about discomfort associated with root canal treatment, and whether there’s anything for you to worry about. Here’s what you should know.

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5 Things to Try If You Have Something Stuck In Your Teeth

May 2, 2023

a cartoon of a green bean between two teeth

At some point in each of our lives, we’ve all experienced getting an object stuck between our teeth. Whether you were enjoying a full-course meal or simply munching on a piece of popcorn, this uncomfortable situation can occur at any moment. In many cases, the item can come out by itself thanks to a little saliva. However, what if it stays there for too long? Read on to learn several ways to remove the object stuck between your pearly whites so you can protect your smile.

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Can Chewing Gum Worsen Your TMJ Disorder Pain?

April 10, 2023

a woman placing gum in her mouth to chew

Chewing gum has been a habit that humans have done for thousands of years. However, thanks to modern times, people no longer have to just chew birch bark tar! There are now so many varieties and even options that are good for your teeth, such as sugar-free gum. While there are benefits to enjoying a stick of the chewy treat, it may not be best for those who suffer from TMJ disorder. Read on to learn about the connection between the two and how your dentist can help you get a more comfortable smile!

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Watch Your Smile During These Special Days in March!

March 10, 2023

a woman smiling and eating waffles on International Waffles Day

The third month of the year doesn’t just usher in the refreshing spring season, but it is also full of celebrations! From St. Patrick’s Day to International Waffle Day, there is plenty of fun taking place. However, as you enjoy yourself with your friends and family, it’s important to keep your oral health in mind. These special days can take a toll on your pearly whites! Here are a few special holidays in March and how to protect your smile as you celebrate.  

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Will Invisalign Affect the Way I Speak?

February 10, 2023

young woman putting on her Invisalign aligner

Invisalign is an incredible orthodontic treatment, capable of straightening your teeth discreetly and without any change in diet. However, like with any treatment, there are some things about it that’ll take some time to get used to.

For example, some people who start Invisalign treatment find that they have a hard time speaking with their aligners in. If you want to know a little more about that, here’s a guide that can tell you everything about how Invisalign can affect your speech.

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How the Entertainment Industry Can Shape Your View of Dentists

January 13, 2023

a woman covering her mouth at the dentist

American culture is often influenced by the portrayal of certain characters in movies and television shows. This can include the common fear of dentists! While these depictions can be entertaining, they can instill a false narrative about dental professionals and cause people to avoid caring for their teeth with necessary preventive care. Read on to learn more about the entertainment industry and the fear of dentists…and what you can do to alleviate any dental anxiety.

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Cosmetic or General Dentist – What’s the Difference?

December 12, 2022

a patient talking with a cosmetic dentist in Plainview

Are you considering whitening your smile? Interested in fixing chipped or cracked teeth? If so, then you’ll want to seek treatment from a skilled and trustworthy cosmetic dentist. There should be no room for error when it comes to upgrading your pearly whites. That said, after spending some time researching, you might ask yourself: “What’s the difference between a cosmetic and a general dentist?” Keep reading to learn what you can expect from these two kinds of professionals.

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Is Dental Sedation Safe for Pregnant Women?

November 3, 2022

Pregnant woman at dentist

Dental anxiety doesn’t discriminate. If you tend to get nervous when you have a dental visit coming up, you aren’t alone. Over 30 million Americans experience stress related to their dental visits. Fortunately, you don’t need to put off getting the essential dental care you need. Sedation is available to help nervous patients feel comfortable in the dental chair. But what if you are pregnant? Is it safe for you and your baby to take advantage of the benefits of dental sedation during this time? Here’s what you should take into consideration.

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Is Direct Bonding the Right Option for You?

October 27, 2022

Woman pointing to direct bonding

Is your smile littered with aesthetic flaws? Fortunately, you don’t need to settle for cosmetic imperfections, like chips, gaps, or stains. There is a wide array of cosmetic dental treatments available that can help you achieve the beautiful results you’ve been dreaming of. For many patients, direct bonding is the affordable, practical solution that works best for them. Read on to learn more about this treatment process so you can determine if it’s an ideal option for you.

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