Top 5 Reasons 6 Month Dental Appointments Are Important

• Plaque and Tarter Removal: A dental hygienist does a much better cleaning job than we can perform at home. Using specialized instruments, he/she is able to remove hardened plaque (tarter & buildup) that can be detrimental to our oral health. 

• Oral Cancer Screenings: The dentist and/or the dental hygienist will perform an oral cancer screening. They will also routinely take a full mouth x-ray (panoramic x-ray) which is the only imaging currently available that allows dentists to detect oral cancer or other abnormalities. This is extremely important because if not detected early on, oral cancer can be devastating and even cause death.

• Irregular Cleanings Can Lead to Bone Loss: Irregular cleanings allow tarter and buildup to get down below the gums, and if left untreated leads to bone loss. Bone loss leads to tooth loss. Tooth replacement options can be costly, so it is best to stay on a regular schedule with your dentist. 

• Detection of Other Problems: Your dentist may be able to identify other health problems that present themselves through the mouth. Examples include; 

Eating Disorders- can be seen through symptoms or dry mouth and 

acid erosion along the tooth's enamel. 

Heart Disease- inflamed, bleeding gums and loose teeth could be 

signs of heart complications. Lack of proper hygiene can also

lead to heart problems because of the bacteria that is present.

Osteoporosis- receding gums and loose teeth are strong indicators 

an underlying bone issue. It won't necessarily show itself through

the teeth, but the bone supporting the teeth.

• Full Mouth Exam: The doctor will thoroughly review x-rays, and also perform an intra-oral exam to make sure there are no abnormalities in the tooth structure. He/She will determine the best form of treatment if any treatment is necessary. These routine examinations are essential to maintaining good oral health and preventing potential problems. 

Dr. Davis performing a thorough exam.

Here at Davis Dental we strive to give our patients the best care possible! We would love to give you an amazing dental experience! 

For more information or to make an appointment, contact Davis Dental at: 

(801)292-5812 or visit our website davisdentalutah.com

 7 Healthy Foods For Your Teeth

The foods that you consume play a major role in your overall dental health. People who eat foods with a high sugar content are more prone to dental caries/cavities. Here is a list of the top 7 foods that are good for your teeth. 

• Cheese- Not processed cheese, but block cheese or string cheese are great options. The enzymes in cheese can help to balance the pH levels in the mouth and increase saliva production. This helps to lower your risk for tooth decay. Cheese also contains calcium and protein which strengthens tooth enamel. 

• Yogurt- Yogurt also has protein and calcium to strengthen enamel. It has probiotics, or good bacteria that can rid your gums of caries causing bacteria. The best yogurt choice is a plain yogurt because the flavored varieties have added sugar. 

• Carrots- Carrots are crunchy and full of fiber. Eating carrots increases saliva production which helps to "rinse" the teeth and prevent cavities.

• Leafy Greens- They are full of calcium which helps tooth enamel, but also contain folic acid which can possibly improve gum disease in pregnant women. If you don't enjoy leafy greens by themselves or in a salad, you could try sneaking them into other foods you do enjoy. Such as smoothies, or on a pizza. 

• Apples- Apples produce saliva in the mouth which helps clear away food debris, but the texture of an apple is similar to that of brushing your teeth. It definitely doesn't replace brushing with a toothbrush and toothpaste, but is a good way to clean your teeth until you can brush them. 

• Celery- Celery is similar to apples and carrots. It is great for increasing saliva production and helping to rid your mouth of that pesky food debris. If you don't love plain celery, try it with some peanut butter to change it up. 

• Almonds- They are high in fiber and protein but very low in sugar. This helps to strengthen tooth enamel and serves as a great and filling snack. Almonds are great on their own or tossed into a salad. 

Here at Davis Dental, we want to help you find easy ways to improve your oral health. We hope these simple and healthy foods will get you headed in the right direction! 

For more information or to make an appointment, contact us at: (801)292-5812 or visit our website at davisdentalutah.com

Information for this post was gathered from colgate.com pictures were obtained from google.

Importance of a Mouth Guard

Many kids and teenagers don't realize the importance of using a mouth guard while participating in sports. In their minds, "mouth guards are stupid", right? Mouth guards aren't only important for young children or teens, they are just as important for adults. Here are some reasons mouth guards are essential. 

• It protects your teeth, cheeks, mouth, tongue, and jaw from injury. Although a mouth guard is made of plastic or laminate materials, it can prevent over 200,000 oral injuries every year. 

• Injuries to the mouth or jaw can be expensive and very painful. Possible injuries include; broken or chipped teeth, biting the cheeks or lips, root damage, fractured jaw, and concussions. Many of these can be prevented by the use of a mouth guard. 

• Mouth guards don't have to empty the bank account. There are essentially three options when it comes to mouth guards. 

1.  Stock Mouth Guards. These are a "one size fits all". The biggest issue we find with this type of guard is that it doesn't fit well for everyone, and is not made to be adjusted to fit. Patients have complained that the stock guards are extremely bulky and tend to make hard or heavy breathing during game time difficult. They are very inexpensive, and can be picked up at any sporting goods store. 
2.  Boil and Bite Mouth Guards. These are a step up from the stock guards we talked about. With this type of guard, it requires you to boil the plastic material for a certain amount of time, then bite into it to give it a more customized fit. They are also inexpensive and can be molded in the comfort of your own home. The down side to this type of guard, is it also doesn't fit every person correctly. It tends to be bulky in the mouth, but is more comfortable to wear than a stock mouth guard.        
3.  Custom Fit Mouth Guards. This is a guard that we make in our office for you. We take dental impressions of your teeth, pour up this impression in dental stone, and then mold the plastic material to it. This type of mouth guard is much more comfortable to wear and will also protect your overall mouth better because it is molded specifically for you. 

Here at Davis Dental, we want to help you protect your smile for many years to come! Come in and see us for a custom mouth guard or for any of your other dental needs. We would love to give you the best dental experience you've ever had. We look forward to meeting you! 

Contact us at: (801)292-5812 or visit our website at: www.davisdentalutah.com

Information gathered from colgate.com

What Our Patients Are Saying About Davis Dental

"I am always extremely pleased with my visits to Dr. Davis. He has a wonderful team; I am always warmly greeted by the front desk staff and immediately feel “at home” in a very comfortable atmosphere. Dr. Davis is always very thorough and professional; He and his outstanding staff is patient and take all the time needed to discuss the dental issues and what are the options for treatment. I feel that my care is in very capable hands and the office utilizes the highest technology. Everything a patient is looking for is present in Dr. Davis office. A super dental office where I feel I receive the best of care." - Christiane F. 

"My experience with Dr. Jordan Davis, DDS and staff was authentically compassionate, and professional. The lovely receptionist (Janet) and the hygienist (Tandem) were enjoyable and efficient making me feel completely comfortable as they explained and educated me in the working process. I felt Dr. Jordan Davis was extremely competent and dedicated to providing the latest technology for my dental health and personal needs. I was completely satisfied with the whole experience and felt like I walked away with peace of mind, an uncommon experience in my dental history." - Colleen W. 

"Dr. Davis and his team were so kind to me! I had to have all 4 of my wisdom teeth taken out and due to being pregnant they could not sedate me. I was very nervous and they were very patient and kept me calm. They continually monitored my heart rate and blood pressure, and made sure that I was as comfortable as possible. They were extremely reasonable with my payment options and helped me in all ways possible. I would recommend Dr. Davis to any and all who are looking for a fantastic experience at the dentist." - Maddison D. 

"Dr. Davis and his team really know their "stuff!" Their professionalism and knowing how to do their job is equal to (or maybe even surpassed by) their friendly and caring attitude. They want everything right for you. They may have one or two other patients being seen while I am there, but I have always felt like I was their primary concern. That's how they run the office - and that's good business." - Lamar H. 

"I have had quite a few procedures with Dr. Davis from simple cleaning and x-Rays to pretty complex procedures with sedation. Every time, he and his staff go above and beyond to make sure my questions are answered and I'm comfortable with the process. To say everyone is great in this office is an understatement. They really truly care! There are very few appointments that I would drive 40 miles roundtrip to but for Dr.Davis and his wonderful staff...I do and will continue to do...as long as I have my teeth :)" - Kande S. 

We love our patients and take pride in giving them the best dental treatment possible. We look forward to doing the same for you! 

To learn more about Davis Dental you can visit our website at: www.davisdentalutah.com

For questions or to make an appointment you can reach us at: (801)292-5812

The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth

We see patients on a regular basis who are in need of tooth replacement, whether it be a single tooth or several teeth, there are essentially three options. 

Option 1: The first and best option is a dental implant.  It is essentially a screw or a post with rivets made of titanium that is placed in to the jaw bone (we also offer a ceramic implant for patients who are looking for a metal free option). It is then allowed to heal for four-six months so that the bone can fuse to the implant. After healing is complete, a different type of post called an abutment is screwed into the implant so that a replacement tooth can be placed on top. A crown or cap is placed on the post. The process is then complete and the patient may use the implant normally.

Implants are the most similar to a natural tooth. You eat, brush, and floss as you would without an implant. 

Implants also have a much longer life span than other treatment options. 

Option 2: The second option is a bridge. It is made of porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. A bridge is three or more teeth that are fused together and then attached to the neighboring teeth. The bridge will fill the empty space left from the missing tooth. In order for the bridge to fit onto the existing teeth, they must be prepped or ground down to create enough space for the bridge to fit. It is then cemented into place. 

The biggest risk factor with a bridge is bridge failure. This happens when either one or both of the neighboring teeth get decay on them. If this occurs, the entire bridge needs to be removed to have the decay taken out properly. Then a new bridge would need to be made and cemented into place.

Option 3: The third option is a removable partial denture or a retainer that has teeth attached to it. An impression or mold of the upper and lower teeth is taken. The impression is then sent to a Dental Laboratory for fabrication. Once completed, the patient will return to the dental office for an appointment to ensure a proper fit.

Partial dentures are fairly easy to care for. They come in and out of the mouth and can be brushed daily with a soft toothbrush. At night, it is recommended that partial dentures be removed from the mouth and placed in a cup of water with an effervescent tablet like Polident to clean it thoroughly.

The biggest downside to a partial denture for patients is the fact that it does come in and out of the mouth. Over time, it will also need adjustments to keep it fitting well and eventually will need to be replaced. 

It is important to replace missing teeth for the following reasons:

1. Teeth will shift over time. For example, if you had your second to back tooth on the lower left side, extracted, eventually the tooth behind it will begin to move forward at an angle to fill the space. Also, the upper teeth will begin to move down until they touch the opposing teeth again. This process is called super eruption. When teeth begin to shift or move up or down, sometimes they will do it to the point that they are no longer savable and need to be extracted.

2. If you have a tooth extracted and you wait several years before deciding to replace it, there may not be room for an implant or another option because the teeth around it have shifted too much.

3. The other problem with waiting several years before replacing a tooth is you will begin to lose the bone in that area. Which results in needing a bone graft if you have decided to have an implant placed. When having a bone graft done, this will delay healing time and also prolong the implant process. 

Here at Davis Dental, we want to help you have a long lasting, fully functioning, beautiful smile! Contact us for more information. (801)292-5812

Fluoride Benefits

Many people are on the fence about fluoride and its benefits. Here at Davis Dental we have experienced the true difference fluoride use can make not only for children, but adults as well. Fluoride is vital in preventing tooth decay. Fluoride comes in many forms and can be used in different ways such as, in toothpaste, drinking water (in some areas) and mouth rinses. 

There is some controversy about having fluoride in drinking water, but according to the American Dental Association "more than 70 years of scientific research has consistently shown that an optimal level of fluoride in community water is safe and effective in preventing tooth decay by at least 25% in both children and adults. Simply by drinking water, Americans can benefit from fluoride's cavity prevention whether they are at home, work or school. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention named community water fluoridation one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century." 

• How does fluoride protect teeth?

Fluoride that comes from foods, beverages, and supplements helps protect teeth before they come into the mouth by helping the tooth enamel become stronger therefore resisting decay. 

After teeth erupt (break through the gums) fluoride helps to remineralize enamel (making it stronger) and can even reverse the signs of early decay. 

• Why should I want to drink fluoridated water?

You can better your overall oral health and prevent cavities simply by drinking water. It is a very easy and safe way to provide your teeth with fluoride. 

Overtime, the fluoride from your drinking water will be present in your saliva and will help to bathe your teeth with very small amounts of fluoride to help protect and remineralize teeth. 

• Why should I choose a fluoridated toothpaste?

Toothpaste helps to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and mouth. Adding fluoride to this method helps to strengthen enamel. 

• Should my children be using fluoridated toothpaste?

For children younger than 3 years, parents and caregivers should begin brushing children's teeth as soon as they begin to come into the mouth by using fluoride toothpaste in an amount no more than a smear or the size of a grain of rice. 

For children 3 to 6 years of age, parents and caregivers should dispense no more than a pea sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. 

Teeth should be brushed thoroughly twice a day (morning and night) or as directed by a dentist or physician. Children's brushing should be supervised to ensure that they use the appropriate amount of toothpaste. 

If you feel that your child isn't brushing thoroughly, we recommend that you help them brush and show them the proper technique. 

Fluoride is a simple, effective, and safe way to ensure healthy teeth. 

For more information visit our website at: davisdentalutah.com or contact Davis Dental at: (801) 292-5812

All information gathered from ada.org. Photo credit to ada.org.

The Prettau Implant Bridge

The Prettau Implant Bridge is the most advanced implant bridge on the market. Unlike other plastic or acrylic options, the Prettau is made of Zirconia, one of the strongest materials in dentistry today, so it won’t crack, chip or stain. In fact, it is actually a metal found on the periodic table of elements. It, however, does not have the appearance of most metals and can be made to look like natural teeth and gum tissue.

If you are missing teeth, have poor teeth with continual problems experiencing bad odors from ill-fitting dentures, this is the ideal restoration. The Prettau Implant Bridge has so much to offer, and can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life, happiness, and self-esteem. The Prettau is a permanent, all on 4, implant bridge that will last a lifetime! This Prettau is professionally milled to compliment your smile and facial structure. The detail in the craftsmanship of each Prettau is unsurpassed, nothing on the market comes close to the durability and styling of the Prettau Implant Bridge.

This restoration is not only very strong, durable, and won’t chip, but also offers superior aesthetics. It is fixed (not removable) to dental implants placed into the jaw, offering stability and function similar to natural teeth. At Davis Dental, we are continually committed to offering our patients the latest and best dentistry available on the market. Not only do we restore the patient’s smile with the Prettau Implant Bridge here at Davis Dental, but we are able to perform the surgical portion (implant placement, bone grafting, and sedation) as well. The entire procedure is done from start to finish at our office, maintaining consistency from the treatment plan, to the surgery, and to the final prosthesis, ensuring the most consistent and excellent outcome.

Change your life forever! If you’re unhappy with your smile, The Prettau is the solution! Regain the freedom to eat what you want and smile with confidence!

For more information on the Prettau Implant Bridge, contact Davis Dental (801)292-5812

Information from this post was collected from www.prettauimplantutah.com 

5 Ways to Help You Overcome Your Dental Anxiety

Do you get extremely nervous before you make a visit to your dentist? You're not alone! Many patients tell us every day that they hate coming to the dentist. But what if I told you there were simple ways to cope with your fear? Guess what?! There is! Here are 5 simple ways you can make going to the dentist a little less stressful. 

1. Don't be afraid to tell your doctor how you feel. They will be glad to do whatever they can to make your visit more comfortable. 
2. Do you like to know exactly what is going on? Let your dentist know! Ask them to explain each part of the procedure so you are never taken by surprise. Some people prefer to not know anything that is happening because it makes them more nervous. What ever you prefer, make sure you let your doctor know. 
3. Deep breathing can be very beneficial for patients with anxiety. Essential oils applied prior to your appointment can also help you relax. Some patients even enjoy a combination of deep breathing exercises and essential oils because not only does it help you relax, it can actually be therapeutic. 
4. Do you hate the sound of the drill? Trust us, most patients do, and we understand. Bring a pair of headphones and your favorite music to help drown out the high pitched noise. 
5. Establish a stop signal. It can be a simple raise of the hand, or a thumbs down to let your doctor know you need them to stop right away. It doesn't have to be a pain signal, it can just mean that you need a rinse or that you simply need a break to breathe and relax. 

These are just a few ways to help you relax before and during your dental procedure. If these methods do not work for you, there are always sedation methods that may be the best option for you. Visit your dentist to establish the best route of treatment for you. 

To make an appointment with Dr. Davis and his team, contact us at (801) 292-5812

Information gathered from personal experience and psychcentral.com

Davis Dental Welcomes a New Assistant: MICHELE NASABAL

Welcome Michele Nasabal!

Michele has recently found that a career in the dental field gives her the ability to combine her interests in the medical profession and aesthetics with her background in cosmetology and CNA training. She enjoys working with a team of professionals who truly value patient care and comfort. New to the office, she successfully develops her skills, relationships with patients, and the Davis Dental team. At home, Michele stays busy with her daughter and family.

https://www.facebook.com/davisdentalutah

Meet the Davis Dental Team

The Team of Experts at Davis Dental Welcome You 

View Post: Meet Dr. Jordan Douglas Davis

Dr. Dale R. Linton, DDS

Dr. Linton is a graduate of Emory University School of Dentistry in Atlanta, GA. He earned his Bachelor of Science from Brigham Young University. Dr. Dale R. Linton has been practicing dentistry in the Bountiful-Salt Lake City area since 1975 and has been serving his patients, by giving them the highest standard of treatment and care by giving them award-winning smiles. He is deeply committed to continuing education, both as a continual student and a teacher.  He has taught his techniques and high standards of quality in many different countries for the past eight years.  His special interests lie aesthetics, veneers and crown and bridge.  He also practices and teaches Minimally Invasive Dentistry. All of Dr. Linton’s and Dr. Davis’s patients are considered close personal friends and are made to feel comfortable and at ease while receiving the most advanced dentistry available.

Dr. Linton has been inducted, as a Fellow in the American College of Dentistry, the International College of Dentistry, and the Pierre Feuchard Academy and received two Lifetime Achievement Awards. He is a member of the Utah Dental Association, American Dental Association, LDS Academy of Dentistry, and the South Davis Dental Society.

When not in the office Dr. Linton enjoys: spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren, SCUBA diving, water skiing, snow skiing, running (three marathons), tennis, golf, painting, and wood work in his shop.

Tandem Beckstrom- Registered Dental Hygienist

Tandem is a northern Utah native.  She graduated at the top of her class with her Bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene from Weber State University.  She has worked in the dental profession for over eight years including the last three with Dr. Linton and Dr. Davis as a dental hygienist. She feels fortunate to in work for outstanding doctors and a remarkable team.  She finds value in building meaningful relationships with her patients and enjoys educating people on their oral and periodontal health.  Patients comment that Tandem makes them feel at ease during their dental experience. To keep up with the ever-changing field of dentistry she stays current by attending continuing education courses. When Tandem is not at work, she stays busy keeping up with her little boy.  She also enjoys baking, reading, camping, four wheeling, playing with her black lab, and going out on the town with her husband.  

Deana Keck- Certified Dental Assistant   Deana is a Certified Dental Assistant and has worked in the profession since 1986.  She began assisting at the Bountiful office in 1992. She is knowledgeable and proficient in all aspects of dental care. She enjoys the friendship of the people she works with, the wonderful patients she assists and meeting any challenge set before her. She is dedicated to her profession and values serving those around her.  She has had several opportunities to go on dental service trips to Nuevas Casa Grande, Mexico where she has assisted in giving complimentary dental care to those in need.  Deana has lived in Utah her entire life. She is happily married and together they are raising their family in the Layton area. Snowmobiling, riding bikes, reading and spending time with her family are her favorite pastimes.

Deana Keck- Certified Dental Assistant   Deana is a Certified Dental Assistant and has worked in the profession since 1986.  She began assisting at the Bountiful office in 1992. She is knowledgeable and proficient in all aspects of dental care. She enjoys the friendship of the people she works with, the wonderful patients she assists and meeting any challenge set before her. She is dedicated to her profession and values serving those around her.  She has had several opportunities to go on dental service trips to Nuevas Casa Grande, Mexico where she has assisted in giving complimentary dental care to those in need.  Deana has lived in Utah her entire life. She is happily married and together they are raising their family in the Layton area. Snowmobiling, riding bikes, reading and spending time with her family are her favorite pastimes.

Deana Keck- Certified Dental Assistant  

Deana is a Certified Dental Assistant and has worked in the profession since 1986.  She began assisting at the Bountiful office in 1992. She is knowledgeable and proficient in all aspects of dental care. She enjoys the friendship of the people she works with, the wonderful patients she assists and meeting any challenge set before her. She is dedicated to her profession and values serving those around her.  She has had several opportunities to go on dental service trips to Nuevas Casa Grande, Mexico where she has assisted in giving complimentary dental care to those in need.  Deana has lived in Utah her entire life. She is happily married and together they are raising their family in the Layton area. Snowmobiling, riding bikes, reading and spending time with her family are her favorite pastimes.

Alyssa Mackey- Dental Assistant  

Alyssa has worked as a Dental Assistant for almost two years and is loving it! Two years ago she was working as a nanny in NYC and when she moved home she soon discovered that the Dental field was the place for her.  Being trained on the job at another Dental office, she has recently joined our team and is very excited about working with Dr. Davis and Dr. Linton.  One of her favorite things about the job are her patients.  She loves meeting new people, getting to know each individual person and helping them.  Alyssa enjoys traveling, movies, reading, being with family and, like all newlyweds, spending time with her husband. 

  

Janet Staples- Practice Manager and Administrator  

Janet has lived in Davis County for the majority of her life. She attended Brigham Young University while excelling in sales management. She became interested in the dental profession in 2003. She has years of experience in customer service and finds her work as an office manager rewarding. She supports the doctors and team who provide the highest level of quality care. She is enthusiastic about cutting edge technology and loves to see the change in patients’ lives through esthetic dentistry. She especially enjoys the opportunity to get to know patients and loves working with a fabulous team.  She enjoys attending her children’s sporting events, running marathons, shopping, gardening, and spending time with her family.