Drew Beaty DDS Blog

When you have a tooth extracted, one of the keys to proper healing is the formation of a blood clot in the space. This clot seals up the wound, stopping the bleeding and protecting the gums, nerve endings, and bone from bacteria and food debris. As the site heals, the clot dissolves. But sometimes during the process, the clot can become dislodged, causing a painful condition known as dry socket. Dry socket doesn’t just hurt, it can put your incision site at greater risk for infection and even prolong your healing time. As a result, you should do everything you can to avoid this outcome.

Maybe you’re experiencing some dental discomfort and know what’s coming next, or maybe you’ve already received a treatment recommendation from your dentist. Either way, you know that your dentist’s preference is to preserve your tooth with a root canal. But you also know there’s technically a second option: tooth extraction. The thought of getting the whole thing over with and removing the troublemaking pearly white is pretty tempting.

If the pressure of making a decision is getting to you, don’t throw darts at a wall just yet! Here’s everything you need to know about these two treatments.

If you have less-than-perfect teeth, you’ve probably thought about giving your smile a makeover at least once. But it can be difficult to justify a cosmetic dental treatment, especially if the economy keeps whisking away your savings.

If you find yourself thinking “it’s not necessary, I can carry on without it,” “I’m not sure the treatment will be worth it,” or “maybe one day when I’m rich,” then keep reading. There’s some valid math magic that will help satisfy the left side of your brain.

Everybody wants a beautifully aligned set of teeth, but many are hesitant to commit to traditional braces because they involve significant food restrictions and wearing conspicuous metal parts for a year or more. Luckily, Invisalign can realign teeth with removable and virtually invisible clear aligners that allow the patient to eat whatever they want. Here’s a short list of common questions about Invisalign to help you know if this treatment might be right for you.

Dating can be one of the most nerve-wracking aspects of adulthood, and adding an uncertain factor like Invisalign is tough. However, with the right mindset and a little preparation, your dating life doesn’t need to grind to a halt. You can still turn on the charm while undergoing orthodontic treatment.

If you want to be more confident in your dating life while wearing Invisalign, continue reading.

Dental implants have allowed many patients to replace missing teeth with high-quality restorations that look, feel, and work just like the real thing. They are considered the best form of tooth replacement available because they are incredibly lifelike, highly functional, require only the same hygiene as real teeth, and can last a lifetime with excellent care. However, a patient will need to meet certain oral health requirements to get them. Here’s what makes someone a good candidate for dental implants and how you can get to that point if you’re not there yet.

Dental implants have become a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, offering a natural look and feel. They’ve been so successful as a treatment that most dental schools now offer training as part of their regular curriculum. While you may be familiar with the basics, several lesser-known facts about them will blow your mind.

Continue reading to delve into five surprising hidden aspects of dental implants.

The holiday season is here again to draw friends and family together. Feasting and drinking are appropriate for many celebrations, and the holidays all have their traditional beverages to help get everyone in the spirit of the season. However, a few of these favorite potable treats can be dangerous for your teeth if they aren’t consumed in moderation or if the drinker does not practice proper oral hygiene. Here are a few traditional brews to go easy on during holiday gatherings.

It’s the season again to gather around the table with friends, family, and food to share stories and smiles. Thanksgiving is a special time when it seems like every indulgence is on the table. From sugar-laden pies to the expensive wines you’ve been saving for later, delights are the order of the day. If you’re trying to preserve your oral health, it can be especially challenging.

If you want to enjoy the festivities of Thanksgiving while keeping your smile bright and healthy, continue reading.

Will you be in the middle of your Invisalign treatment during Halloween? If so, the good news is that your aligners won’t prevent you from indulging in your favorite sweet treats. However, you need to be careful about making the right decisions so that your treatment isn’t disrupted. Below are 3 tips that Invisalign-wearers might find helpful on and after October 31st.