Dr. Causey DMD

Best toothbrush for me?

admin — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:18:14 +0000

KIMBERLY YELTON: Which toothbrush is best for me?

DR. CAUSEY: Kim. Let’s start with disposable toothbrushes. I don’t really have a favorite brand, but I can tell you some qualities to look for. Choose a toothbrush with a head that allows for easy access to all surfaces of your teeth. It should have a handle long enough to comfortably hold in your hand. Bristles? Soft is the safest and most comfortable choice. And it doesn’t hurt to check for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Approval on the package. Powered or electric toothbrushes are great…but more expensive. Next time you’re in for a check-up I’ll show you an electric brush I use myself.

Best toothbrush for me? is a post from Irmo, SC dentist Dr. Causey DMD

Auto Mechanics, plumbers, and…dentists?

admin — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 14:04:04 +0000

MIKE SHACKLEY: Gotta say, I think of dentists like I think of plumbers and auto mechanics. I don’t know anything about pipes or cars, so whatever they tell me I have to believe. Usually, I only see them when it’s an emergency, so they can charge me anything they want because I don’t have time to shop around for the best deal. Feels the same, going to the dentist. I always leave feeling like I’ve been ripped off somehow. Are you any different?

DR. CAUSEY: I hear you, Mike. After years of living in Irmo, Dana and I have finally found a mechanic we trust…and a plumber. But it took a while. I agree that going to the dentist can feel the same. A couple of things…regular maintenance is good for cars, pipes, and your teeth. Coming in for a checkup once or twice a year will save you money in the long run, while also building trust between you and I. The better we know each other…the better I know your teeth…the fewer surprises. Dental treatments and repairs can be expensive. The work is labor intensive, technology-driven, and a medical imperative. That doesn’t mean it can’t be affordable. I’d be happy to discuss the insurance and financing options we offer.

Auto Mechanics, plumbers, and…dentists? is a post from Irmo, SC dentist Dr. Causey DMD

Son’s gray tooth, no cause for alarm.

admin — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 14:01:14 +0000

JEANNE MAJORS: Dr. Causey. When we were on vacation last month, our five year-old son Justin bumped his front teeth coming out of a swimming pool. It was a very minor accident, no tears shed, barely slowed him down. Last week, we noticed that one of his front teeth had turned gray. My husband lost a tooth when he was a teenager in a similar fashion. After being hit by a baseball, one of his teeth turned gray and had to be removed. Is our son’s tooth dead? Do we need to see you about this?

DR. CAUSEY: Jeanne. It is not uncommon for active children to bruise a primary (baby) tooth from time to time. When they do, the tooth may turn dark gray or purple…like a bruise on your skin. Most primary teeth return to their natural color after a few months, though some do not. An initial radiograph (x-ray) should be taken to evaluate possible trauma to the underlying permanent (adult) tooth. As long as the tooth is not a permanent (adult) tooth, the area can be observed for tissue changes and treated based on symptoms. From a quick look at Justin’s records, it looks like he’s due to lose those front teeth pretty soon, anyway. (As for Rick’s front tooth…I know it well. Remind him to floss thoroughly around that area, will you?)

Son’s gray tooth, no cause for alarm. is a post from Irmo, SC dentist Dr. Causey DMD