New Image Dentistry - Dr. A. Allen Blourchian

Smile makeovers at New Image Dentistry!

2010-09-11T15:33:00.000-07:00

The most dramatic treatment Dr. Allen Blourchian offers at our convenient Franklin office is a smile makeover.

Using a variety of procedures, your smile can be transformed to the ideal one you have always dreamed of. We begin by listening to your desires and preferences. Next, Dr. Blourchian and our staff analyze your smile completely, including your lips, teeth, mouth, jaw line, etc.

Actual treatment takes only two appointments in a period of two weeks. Patients will be amazed at how a smile makeover can improve their appearance and self-image. For many, this treatment is a life-changing event.

If you're interested in a smile makeover, we encourage you to give us a call at 615.591.4490. Have a wonderful rest of the weekend!

September is National Gum Care Month! From Dr. Allen Blourchian

2010-09-05T17:14:00.000-07:00

At New Image Dentistry, we know that gingivitis - the early stage of periodontal disease - can be difficult to recognize. Many people don't recognize the warning signs - bleeding and swollen gums, as a precursor to gum disease. This month, a national campaign is under way to raise awareness about gum health and periodontal disease, and we wanted to help do our part to spread the word!

Dr. Allen Blourchian will tell you early recognition and action are the most important steps to health gums, and ultimately a health body, too! Studies are published every year linking oral health, including the gums, to the health of other areas of the body, such as your heart. One of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for gum disease.

Dr. Blourchian knows these can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you happen to notice any of these signs, please schedule an appointment at our convenient Franklin office by calling (615) 591-4490 as soon as possible. Dr. Blourchian can take proactive steps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, while showing you how to improve gum care in your daily oral hygiene habits.

We hope you're having a relaxing Labor Day weekend!

Write a review of Dr. Allen Blourchian!

2010-08-27T17:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! Whether you've visited New Image Dentistry for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about Dr. Allen Blourchian. There are lots of places on the Internet where you may share your reviews, but we'd like to direct you to our Google Local Page to write a review of us - it only takes a moment!

You may write your review here.

Thank you in advance and enjoy your weekend!

Foods for healthy gums and healthy hearts, from Dr. Blourchian

2010-08-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

Gum disease, known also as periodontal disease, is far more common than you may think. Each year, new studies begin to link the effect gum disease can have on the heart, and we at New Image Dentistry have been helping spread the word! One of the simplest steps to achieving healthier gums can be your diet. We recently found a great article outlining several options for healthier gums. Included among the suggestions were:

*Raisins
*Green Tea
*Whole Grains

In addition to these foods being gums-friendly, they happen to be healthy foods in general, and a great option to begin integrating into your diet.

Have a great weekend!

National Smile Week at New Image Dentistry!

2010-08-12T14:07:00.000-07:00

This week marks National Smile Week, and an ideal time to remind patients of Dr. Allen Blourchian to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining and happy! This includes brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding foods that can stain your teeth such as tea and coffee and visiting our convenient Franklin office every six months or as recommended. Remember, we serve Franklin, Cool Springs, Nashville, Spring Hills, Brentwood and all of Tennessee.

The American Dental Association, or ADA, recommends the following for good oral hygiene:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won't do a good job of cleaning your teeth.

• Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner. Tooth decay–causing bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. This helps remove the sticky film on teeth called plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.

• Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.

• Visit New Image Dentistry on a regular basis for professional cleanings and oral exams.

Lastly, a great reason to smile is this: smiling can actually help you live longer according to a new study! Have you visited our office lately for a cleaning or checkup? If not, give us a call at (615) 591-4490 to set up an appointment! Summer is a great time for a visit!

The importance of flossing, from New Image Dentistry

2010-08-05T16:01:00.000-07:00

At New Image Dentistry, we hope you're not a part of the 51 percent of Americans who don’t floss daily. Or worse, we hope you're not part of the 10 percent who never floss at all. Dr. Blourchian and our staff will always tell you that proper flossing is just as important for your dental health as brushing regularly. Flossing cleans food and plaque that build up between teeth and below the gumline, key areas that brushing simply cannot reach.

Flossing 3-to-5 minutes everyday is recommended, but even 60 seconds of flossing has a great benefit over not flossing at all. Also, make sure to always brush your teeth after you floss, and to rinse with water or mouthwash. When you begin flossing you may experience gum pain or bleeding, but with daily flossing and brushing this should stop within a week or so.

On a side note, has it been at least six months since your last checkup at our office? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to schedule an appointment by calling (615) 591-4490!

We hope you're enjoying your summer! Be sure to post your summer photos on our Facebook wall!

When should you call New Image Dentistry?

2010-07-28T22:27:00.000-07:00

Having to deal with a dental emergency during the summer while at work or on vacation is not something people often think about. And Dr. Blourchian will always tell you that being prepared can make the difference between saving or losing a tooth. If you're facing a dental emergency this summer, we want you to call us immediately or let us know on our Facebook page. If you need urgent treatment after hours, you can call our emergency number (please ask us for the number if you haven't already done so). We are always here to assist when your dental health is at risk. Below are tips on dealing with urgent dental situations; you may want to display this list on your refrigerator or store it near your emergency phone numbers for easy reference.

Toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm water and inspect your teeth to be sure there is nothing caught between them. If pain continues, use a cold compress to ease the pain. Do not apply heat or any kind of aspirin or topical pain reliever directly to the affected area, as this can cause damage to the gums. Schedule an appointment immediately.

Bitten Lip or Tongue: If you've bitten your lip or tongue severely enough to cause bleeding, clean the bite gently with water and use a cold compress (a cold, wet towel or washcloth pressed firmly against the area) to reduce or avoid swelling. Give us a call to help determine how serious the bite is.

Object Caught In Teeth: If you have something caught between your teeth, use dental floss to gently remove it. Never use a metal, plastic, or sharp tool to remove a stuck object. If you are unable to remove the item with dental floss, give us a call.

Broken, Chipped, or Fractured Tooth: If you've chipped or broken a piece off of your tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water, then use a cold compress to reduce swelling. Try to locate and save the tooth fragment that broke off. Call us immediately.

Knocked Out Tooth: If your tooth has been knocked out, find the tooth and rinse it with water (no soap), taking care to only touch the crown of the tooth (the part you can see when it's in place). If you can, place the tooth back in its socket and hold it in place with a clean towel or cloth. If you can't return the tooth to its socket, place it in a clean container with milk. In either case, call us immediately and/or head to the nearest hospital. If you act quickly, it's possible to save the tooth.

Loose Tooth: If you have a loose tooth, it should be removed to avoid being swallowed or inhaled. And, you probably guessed it: give us a call.

We hope that helped you get prepared for - knock on wood - any dental emergency this summer. We hope you're having a GREAT summer so far!

Ask Dr. Blourchian: What does Invisalign® have to do with my oral health?

2010-07-22T11:23:00.000-07:00

When considering treatment options with Dr. Allen Blourchian, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign at New Image Dentistry than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible. Besides straightening your teeth, Invisalign can improve your oral health. Here’s how Invisalign can help improve your health, while shaping your beautiful smile:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque, and gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Blourchian the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page or give us a call at 615.591.4490!

Happy Thursday,

Dr. Blourchian and team

New Image Dentistry, helping you avoid heat exhaustion this summer

2010-07-15T12:12:00.000-07:00

93 degrees today! With the heat wave sweeping through Nashville, Franklin and surrounding areas this summer, Dr. Blourchian and staff want you to be extra careful when you’re out and about. Last week, Good Morning America ran a segment about the many ways you can protect yourself from heat stroke and other heat-related conditions this summer. And, here are some helpful summer safety tips from our friends at WebMD.

Dr. Blourchian and our team encourage you to watch this GMA short clip and remember to always have a bottle of water handy when heading out! We hope you're having a wonderful summer.

White for Life Club at New Image Dentistry!

2010-07-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

At our convenient Franklin location, we have a wonderful program for our patients who would like to keep their smile white and shiny for the rest of their life. For a one time fee of $99.00, Dr. Allen Blourchian and staff will make you bleaching trays and give you bleaching solution. For as long as you keep your six month appointments with us, we will refill the bleach at no other cost to you! We call this White For Life Club and invite you to join! Please give us a call at (615) 591-4490 if you are interested! We hope you had an outstanding Fourth of July weekend!!

Featured patient review for Dr. Blourchian!

2010-06-29T08:27:00.000-07:00

For Franklin and Nashville dentist Dr. Blourchian and our entire team at New Image Dentistry, nothing speaks louder than patient reviews. One of Dr. Blourchian's patients, Pamela Wheat, recently send the doctor a card and chocolates. Her card says:

Dear Dr. "B"
I can't begin to tell you how very happy I am that I found you for my new dentist here in Tennessee. You have not only changed my confidence level in a Dentist, but you have also changed my appearance, for which I will be forever grateful.

Thank you, Pamela! We are honored to have you as a patient! Dr. Blourchian and our staff are always happy to hear from current and former patients! Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about our office!

Dr. Blourchian wants to know: What are you up to this summer?

2010-06-25T10:58:00.000-07:00

It’s summer here at New Image Dentistry!, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting America’s open roads or just having fun in the backyard, Nashville family dentist Dr. Allen Blourchian and our team want to hear all about it! Leave a comment on our Facebook fan page and tell us about your summer!

Happy Travels,

Dr. Blourchian and team

What do patients like most about New Image Dentistry?

2010-06-16T14:38:00.000-07:00

Dr. Allen Blourchian and team love hearing from our current and past patients! We received a few received recently that made made us very proud of the work we do as Nashville and Franklin's leading dentistry: creating beautiful smiles.

"Very friendly, efficient, and willing to answer my questions and curiosities about dentistry!" ~ Katherine B.

"Expertise, Facilities, Staff. all excellent." ~ Byron S.

"Dr. Blourchian's location and and up-to-date technology." ~ Katherine N.

"Best dental facility I have been to. Very polite, prompt, helpful and informative." ~ Amber S.

"It is a step above what most dental offices go when trying to help patients." ~ Scherra V.

Dr. Blourchian and team, supporting National Smile Month

2010-06-04T08:04:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Dental Association discovered that a person's smile was important than their eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature. After all, there's a big reason why Americans spend as much as they do each year on general and cosmetic dentistry each year: people want to look (and feel) great.

That brings us to June, also known as National Smile Month. It's a great time for Dr. Blourchian to remind all of our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to New Image Dentistry.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks.
* Visit Dr. Blourchian regularly (usually every six months).

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call at (615) 591-4490. We hope you have a great weekend! Now get out there and share your smiles with Nashville!

This Memorial Day, what are you up to? From New Image Dentistry

2010-05-27T14:32:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day Weekend, only a day away, is a time Americans everywhere stop and remember those men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom over the course of history.

Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer 2010, and for many folks in Nashville, Franklin and surrounding areas, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the office or in the classroom is sweet, sweet relief. At New Image Dentistry, we also know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s a season of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or hitting America's great open roads this weekend, we want to know all about it!

Dr. Blourchian and our entire team at New Image Dentistry wish you a nice, safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

Sedation dentistry in Nashville - Dr. Blourchian

2010-05-21T20:39:00.000-07:00

While Dr. Blourchian and our team at New Image Dentistry strive to offer a comfortable experience for all our patients, we realize that fear or anxiety while visiting the dentist can affect a lot of patients anyway. For patients who need extra comfort and relaxation during their dental visit, we are pleased to offer sedation dentistry.

The reasons for patients' fear of the dentist can be numerous, but are usually due to a traumatic experience during their childhood. This overwhelming anxiety can cause one to avoid modern dental care, resulting in poor oral hygiene and possible mouth-related issues such as gum disease.

There are, however, some important things to note about sedation dentistry:

- Sedation dentistry is not the same as being unconscious: you will be responsive and conscious throughout the entire procedure, but in a deeply relaxed state of mind.

- Because the sedation takes some time to wear off completely, it is crucial for you to have a friend or family member with you to transport you to and from our office safely.

If you suffer from dental phobia, sedation dentistry may be the answer for you. At our Nashville suburb office, several patients have successfully completed dental treatment using this state-of-the-art and effective technology. Please give us a call at 615.261.8879 for more info about sedation industry, and we'll be more than happy to answer your questions.

Enjoy your weekend!

What do you love about New Image Dentistry?

2010-05-14T15:29:00.000-07:00

From your very first visit to New Image Dentistry, our doctor and team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. Blourchian? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve visited us for the first time, or you've been a patient for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you!

New Image Dentistry, supporting National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

2010-05-04T07:35:00.000-07:00

Did you know the month of May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to include more physical activity into our lives, and the reminder is even more significant today as folks are distracted more and more by television, social networking and working more hours. Living an active lifestyle can and does improve physical and mental health, productivity and overall well-being. The best part? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time or effort.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your reference. The guidelines call for people to exercise one hour every day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At New Image Dentistry, our staff and Dr. Blourchian encourage our patients to exercise or participate in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of mouth or facial protection when doing so. To learn more about how often you should exercise, we recommend you check out these helpful tips, courtesy of our friends at the American Heart Association.

Ask Dr. Blourchian: Can I get dental implants if I have diabetes?

2010-04-27T10:34:00.000-07:00

In short, yes.

Dr. Blourchian understands dry mouth, gum disease, delayed healing and other health issues are all special concerns for our patients with diabetes. But what are your options when infection has weakened teeth beyond repair? In many cases,
Dr. Blourchian recommends dental implants as permanent replacements for damaged teeth.

Recent studies of dental implants with diabetic patients show success rates of higher than 90 percent. In the rare case that the implant does not blend properly to the bone, Dr. Blourchian will remove and the procedure at New Image Dentistry can be repeated. While the process of implantation takes longer than conventional treatments like bridges, the strength and durability of implants make them an excellent long-term solution for your tooth replacement. If you have diabetes and have lost one or more teeth (and your diabetes is under control), you may consider implants. However, if your blood sugar is not controlled, Dr. Blourchian recommends putting off any non-emergency dental care – including implants, dentures, and bridgework – until you’ve worked with your primary care physician to control it.

Otherwise, feel free to give us a call and our staff will try to answer any diabetes-related question we can.

Are you a teeth whitening 'addict'?

2010-04-23T08:01:00.000-07:00

In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when sparkling white teeth might be the difference between getting a job or that promotion, more and more Americans want to look and feel great. But can there be too much of a good thing when it comes to teeth whitening? Dentists everywhere are reporting a spike in patients' complaining about irritation and bleeding gums, translucent teeth and excessive teeth sensitivity, especially to cold food and drink items.

There are two main types of home teeth-whitening products, including tray-based systems, in which a tray filled with beaching solution is worn over the teeth - or whitening strips. If you're considering using a tooth whitening product containing bleaches, however, the American Dental Association recommends that you visit Dr. Blourchian at New Image Dentistry first.

We offer two types of teeth whitening procedures at Dr. Blourchian’s Franklin practice: a take-home bleaching kit and Zoom!® In-office teeth whitening. Each is designed to remove stains and discoloration on the teeth, giving patients a bright, white smile.

Give us a call and have yourself a great weekend!

Mr. Bean goes to the dentist! From Dr. Blourchian

2010-04-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

How do you feel about a treat today? Here's a little classic dental humor for you to enjoy, from the bumbling yet lovable British spy, Mr. Bean. Our staff loved it, and know you'll get a laugh out of it as well. Enjoy "Mr. Bean Goes to the Dentist”!

If you have any other suggestions you think we should share with our patients, please let us know!

Dr. Blourchian, helping calm children's fears and anxieties about dentistry

2010-04-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

Our staff at New Image Dentistry knows that many children have a fear of visiting the dentist. Recently, we came across a good article on helping kids overcome fears of the dentist, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Dr. Blourchian and our team excel at making children feel comfortable visiting the dentist. In fact, most of our young patients look forward to their next visit!

Has your child visited New Image Dentistry in the last six months? If not, it’s time to schedule an appointment by calling (615) 261-8879! We look forward to seeing you and have a great weekend!

Smile wide and often! From New Image Dentistry

2010-03-31T12:01:00.000-07:00

Dr. Blourchian has some good news to report today! People with big, happy smiles may actually out-live those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study conducted at Michigan's Wayne State University.

Dr. Blourchian knew that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they used information from the Baseball Register to look at photos of 230 players who began their baseball careers prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (wide smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were then compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through last year.

The researchers then took into account other factors associated with longevity, such as body mass index, or BMI, career length and college attendance. They found that players who weren't smiling died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old!

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you tried perfecting your smile by visiting Dr. Blourchian and New Image Dentistry lately? If not, give us a call today!

Ask Dr. Blourchian: what's the best advice you ever received?

2010-03-23T08:45:00.000-07:00

There are two pieces of advice that have shaped my decision-making in dentistry and life. The first one is "WIDIOM" rule, short for "Would I Do it on Me," which sometimes clarifies sometimes complex treatment decisions in dentistry.

The next one would be the one rule I learned from my all time favorite book, "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" by Steven Covey. It is by far the most helpful book I have ever read. That rule is called "Universal Laws." It simply states that there are invisible, but easy to discover and understand laws that govern our world. They are as real and as inescapable as the laws of gravity. They govern our lives, have been there from the very beginning of time, and will be there until the end of time. We can not break these laws, we can only break ourselves against these laws.

The only sure way to achieve happiness, satisfaction and peace of mind in life is to obey these laws as we obey the law of gravity for example. We all know them: Honesty, Integrity, Fidelity, Hard Work, etc. This book and this particular law have verified and confirmed my previously vague feelings. Steven Covey has been a tremendous influence on my life, my family and my business. I highly recommend his book to everyone.

Your turn! From New Image Dentistry

2010-03-18T13:34:00.000-07:00

Week after week, Dr. Blourchian and our staff at New Image Dentistry blog about important topics pertinent to dental care. This week, we thought we’d step back and ask: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the field of dentistry? What would you like us to focus on our blog? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

So… take it away and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have!

Five helpful tips to avoid plaque, from Dr. Allen Blourchian

2010-03-08T16:40:00.000-08:00

Dr. Blourchian knows Nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Let’s start with not brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is not flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, evading a trip to visit Dr. Blourchian is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting your dentist at least twice a year, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables. You can still eat these types of fruits and veggies if you have braces, but be sure to cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid breaking off brackets.

Finally, before you pick that candy up, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be. If you have any questions, please give Dr. Blourchian and team a call at (615) 591-4490.

At New Image Dentistry, a pursuit of excellence

2010-03-05T16:28:00.000-08:00

At New Image Dentistry, Dr. Allen Blourchian and team make every effort to provide you with the best dental treatment possible. For us that means achieving consistently great results. There are many things that help Dr. Blourchian do that. Some of them are:

1. Using the most up to date and proven cosmetic dental technologies available
2. Spending time and resources on continuing education to stay current and relevant
3. Training our entire team on new dental techniques
4. Educating our patients about the pursuit of excellence

If you or a family member has been thinking about cosmetic dental treatment, please give us a call at (615) 591-4490. Dr. Blourchian and team look forward to seeing you.

February is also National Children’s Dental Health Month, from Dr. Blourchian

2010-02-25T09:45:00.000-08:00

Last week, the team at New Image Dentistry discussed February, also known in the dental world as "Heart Month." Well, did you know February is also National Children’s Dental Health Month, and Dr. Allen Blourchian is here to tell you about the need for preventative oral care in kids. For 60 Februaries, the American Dental Association, or ADA, has sponsored National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. National Children's Dental Health Month began as a one-day event in 1941 in a Cleveland clinic. Forty years later, however, the program was extended to a month-long celebration known today as National Children’s Dental Health Month.

Every February, Dr. Blourchian and thousands of fine dental professionals across the U.S. focus on the preventive oral care of our children. Dr. Blourchian and our staff want you to remember developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Has your child visited New Image Dentistry the past six months? If not, it’s time to give us a call and schedule an appointment!

February is American Heart Month, from New Image Dentistry

2010-02-18T14:22:00.000-08:00

Did you know February is Heart Month? It’s a great time to take notice of the health of your heart, says Dr. Blourchian. Cardiovascular disease remains American's number one killer, according to the American Heart Association. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.

Visiting our office regularly can help prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. And because people with dental insurance are more likely to visit their dentist when they should, a healthy mouth begins with a visit to New Image Dentistry. In observance of Heart Month, Dr. Blourchian says it’s also important to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25). If you have any questions about heart health, or about your treatment at New Image Dentistry, please give us a call today.

Toothbrush trivia with Dr. Blourchian!

2010-02-09T10:22:00.000-08:00

People have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years! In fact, the first “toothbrush” was created around 3000BC! Ancient civilizations used a thin twig with a frayed edge to rub against their teeth for cleaning.

The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.

It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced and people quickly became aware of practicing good oral hygiene.

Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush (and toothpaste), from Dr. Blourchian and team:

• Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color
• The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India
• On average, children smile about 400 times per day
• Your toothbrush should be replaced every two months
• The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in the US in 1955 and Colgate in 1873

At New Image Dentistry, 24/7 access to your account

2010-02-01T16:40:00.000-08:00

At New Image Dentistry, our professional team and Dr. Blourchian embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative dental treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located in Nashville and Franklin.

Did you know Dr. Blourchian's patients have access to their account, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on our web site? You may look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

Just see what some of our patients are saying about this service!

"It is nice to be able to slowly browse for information without worrying about wasting anyones time. This way I can be sure about what the important things I need to ask when calling." ~ Scherra V.

"It seems to me very few dentists have this sort of internet-based service. Very good." ~ Byron S.

"No call needed to update insurance state, or to confirm next appointment time." ~ Jean K.

"I am a new patient and used Sesame for the first time. I was able to easily check and confirm my appointment. It looks like a very easy site to use." ~ Earl M.

You can sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please call the team at New Image Dentistry if you have any questions!

Dr. Blourchian wants to know: What do you love about our community?

2010-01-25T13:00:00.000-08:00

New Image Dentistry, located in Franklin and serving Nashville and surrounding communities, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Blourchian and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Franklin or Nashville? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Favorite bar? Let us know!

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.” And, who knows, we might post your response on our social networks! Or, you may give us a call!

Have a great week!

A few tips to avoid bad breath, from Dr. Blourchian

2010-01-18T15:11:00.000-08:00

We've blogged about the effects of bad breath in the past, and today thought we'd share a few tips with you to help prevent halitosis, or bad breath. Dr. Blourchian knows bad breath can be a real downer, but he wants you to know it can be easily prevented!

Bad breath is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grow in your mouth. This bacteria gathers on bits of food and between your teeth and release sulfur compounds, making your breath smell. Recently, we read an article by Dr. Andrew Weil titled, "3 Ways to Prevent Bad Breath." He recommends the following ways to help prevent bad breath.

1. Brush your tongue: "The tongue, and especially the back of the tongue, is a warm harbor for bacteria," he writes, and recommends spending some time on your tongue during teeth brushing, "moving slowly toward the back so as not to activate your gag reflex."

2. Keep your mouth hydrated: Because a dry mouth typically leads to bad breath, eating oranges or celery, or drinking water, may help.

3. Freshen your mouth: Herbal palate cleansers (parsley, peppermint tea and cardamom seeds may do the trick). If bad breath returns, give us a call! Dr. Blourchian may diagnose any condition or concerns of the oral cavity that may be causing the problems, such as gum disease.

Happy MLK Day!

Facebook Fan Page for New Image Dentistry!

2010-01-11T09:34:00.000-08:00

Did you know New Image Dentistry is on Facebook? Our fan page, which keeps growing each day, provides you the latest news from Dr. Blourchian and our office. We invite you to connect with us and be "in the loop" for all things New Image Dentistry.

Become a "fan" today and have a great rest of the week! From Dr. Blourchian and the entire team at Image Image Dentistry!

What puts you at ease at New Image Dentistry?

2010-01-04T09:56:00.000-08:00

Dr. Blourchian and our team understand not everyone is thrilled to see their dentist. But we at New Image Dentistry strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about our practice that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly staff? Dr. Blourchian himself?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call. And Happy New Year! We are happy to be back!

Benefits of dental implants, from Dr. Blourchian

2009-12-28T11:19:00.000-08:00

In the past, in order to replace a missing tooth one would automatically get a bridge. While it is still a widely performed procedure, bridges involve grinding adjacent teeth that might be healthy and would otherwise need no treatment. Implant dentistry is a conservative treatment approach that spares the adjacent teeth unnecessary dental work.

Did you know Dr. Blourchian is at the forefront of dental implant technology? As a dental healthcare provider, he believes it is his duty to keep up with advances in the field of dentistry. Dentistry has changed much within the last 10 years, and Dr. Blourchian has always been an enthusiastic participant in various continuing education courses in his professional life.

For Nashville, Franklin, and Cool Springs-area residents who have a compromised or severely damaged teeth, dental implants are the best option. Instead of spending time, money and effort trying to save a severely damaged tooth that will most likely cause problems in the future, dental implants fix the problem permanently.

There are several benefits of implant dentistry including:

--Improved appearance
--Firm and stable teeth
--Preventing destructive bone loss caused by dentures
--More comfort and ease with chewing
--Helping maintain healthy adjacent teeth

Dental implants are an excellent option for patients who want to restore their smile. For more information about implant dentistry, give us a call today!

Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays from Dr. Blourchian and New Image Dentistry!

2009-12-21T11:11:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is upon us, and as Dr. Blourchian and his team at New Image Dentistry reflect on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What’s your favorite part about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for the new year? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

--The team at New Image Dentistry

An interesting article about changes in dentistry, from Dr. Blourchian

2009-12-14T10:23:00.000-08:00

Our world is always changing and evolving, whether it’s the latest gadget you ordered online or the high-tech braces on your teeth! Recently, the team at New Image Dentistry read an article in the New York Times about dental implants, and how they are becoming increasingly favored over bridges to replace lost teeth. One thing to remember about dental implants is that they need to be cared for just like your regular teeth; daily brushing and flossing are a must!

Call us today to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation with Dr. Blourchian to discuss your implant options.

Happy Monday!

Patient reviews for Dr. Blourchian

2009-12-09T08:06:00.000-08:00

New Image Dentistry, serving Nashville, Franklin and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about Dr. Blourchian and his team!

"Always confirms appoinments. They are on top of billing and I never have to call about mistakes. I like all the people in the office as well." ~ Robert M.

"Honest, concerned, understanding, comfortable discussing my options." ~ Margaret Y.

"Best dental facility I have been to. Very polite, prompt, helpful and informative." ~ Amber S.

"Modern equipment and a feeling that he is current on techniques and dental developments." ~ Mark B.

"Everyone is very nice and do what they can to make you comfortable and they try to help you in what your needs are." ~ Leah P.

"The atmosphere and staff where great. I appreciated the honesty about prices and services before I made my choices. No pressure." ~ Scherra V.

Keeping You Safe This Cold & Flu Season, from Dr. Blourchian

2009-11-30T08:49:00.000-08:00

Traditionally cold and flu season starts in Fall, but this year it seems to have started much earlier and with the number of patients canceling appointments because of flu and H1N1 symptoms New Image Dentistry is taking additional precautions to help prevent the spread of germs.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, we give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Maintaining and protecting oral hygiene equipment is also important this flu season. To protect your toothbrush from bacteria follow these steps:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

Hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions! Stay healthy!

The importance of brushing your teeth, from Dr. Blourchian

2009-11-23T09:05:00.000-08:00

One of the things Dr. Blourchian and the team at New Image Dentistry tell patients every day is the importance of daily oral care. Whether it is brushing, flossing, or using mouthwash, good oral hygiene is important! We found an adorable video that helps illustrate our point. Check it out below and have a great week!

Dr. Blourchian wants to know: What are you up to in November?

2009-11-16T09:01:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before you go celebrating, Dr. Blourchian and team want to know: What are you doing this month? Anything exciting happening in your life? If so, we'd love to hear all about it!

You can share your stories with us here or by giving us a call!

--The team at New Image Dentistry

Getting Married This Fall? Smile Bright at New Image Dentistry!

2009-11-09T09:32:00.000-08:00

It’s Fall. Leaves are turning shades of orange and red, the wind is picking up and getting cooler, and pumpkin patches are full of bright orange pumpkins. Families gather together, kids head out trick-or-treating, and as always, wedding bells are ringing. That's right, Fall is one of the best times of year to tie the knot! If you are gearing up for a wedding this Fall, consider matching that white dress to a perfectly white smile!

At New Image Dentistry we offer in-office tooth whitening for the bride, the groom, or the entire wedding party! You get the girls together to get their nails done, and now you can get them together to get their teeth done!

In-office whitening is the quickest, most effective way to achieve whiter teeth. Because we are dental professionals, we have the expertise to use higher percentages of whitening agents than the at-home systems allow. So you can get a brighter white, usually in just one visit!

Give us a call and let us add some extra sparkle to your “I do”!

--Dr. Blourchian and team

Let Dr. Blourchian know how he's doing!

2009-11-02T09:27:00.000-08:00

Whether you have visited Dr. Blourchian for a week or for years, we’d love to hear your feedback about New Image Dentistry! Now with the Internet, it’s even easier to write your thoughts and share them with the world. We'd want to encourage you to write a review of us. It only takes a moment!

You may review Dr. Blourchian here.

Thank you!

--Dr. Blourchian and team

Parsley and Other Ways To Brighten Your Smile, From Dr. Blourchian

2009-10-26T10:21:00.000-07:00

Dr. Blourchian sees lots of patients concerned about their bad breath. So we want to educate you about what you can do to really keep your chompers clean and breath minty fresh!

Naturally, good oral hygiene is the first step. With proper brushing and regular dental checkups you can keep bad breath (halitosis) in check.

Certain foods, medications, smoking, sinus issues, or even gum disease cause most bad breath. If the stink lingers for longer than 24 hours, you should contact us. It might be something more serious, like dehydration, zinc deficiency, diabetes, liver failure, kidney failure, or even certain kinds of cancers!

In the meantime, here are some home remedies to keep you smiling bright from New Image Dentistry.

--Spice Up Your Life
Snack on some cloves, fennel, or anise after each particularly odorous snack.
--Don’t forget the tongue
Lots of people brush their teeth regularly, but leave the tongue alone. One of the main causes of bad breath is food and plaque residue on the surface of your tongue. So give it a nice gentle brush-over too!
--Watch your drinking habits
The worst options are coffee, wine, whiskey, and beer.
--Frequent brushing
Carry a toothbrush with you so brushing after each meal is convenient and refreshing! Trust us, you’ll love the way it makes you feel. If you can’t brush, still swish around a couple sips of water to remove any lingering food.
--Make your own Gargle
Gargling with a home mixture of sage, calendula, and myrrh gum extracts four times a day should ward off that bad breath potential.
--Parsley’s there for a reason
Finish your parsley after you finish your dinner and you’ll find a refreshing breath enhancer. Hate the texture? Throw a couple sprigs in a blender to sip after each meal.
--Sugarless Gum
Always a good idea to carry some mints or sugarless gum for that quick spruce up before you meet the boss.
--Don’t cut that cheese
The stronger the cheese, the stinkier your breath can become. Think about blue cheese and Roquefort? They really get the party started in your mouth and it’s hard to make them leave!

Zoom! Whitening with Dr. Blourchian

2009-10-20T09:33:00.000-07:00

Feel like you could use a whiter smile? Then call Dr. Allen Blourchian at New Image Dentistry! A whiter smile is one just one dentist visit away! ZOOM! Smile Whitening brightens and whitens your teeth in just 45 minutes. Once you have gone through the Zoom! treatment we will send you home with an at home whitening bleaching kit with custom made trays. Using the take home trays will allow you to maintain your desired level of whitening over several months.

While Zoom! Smile Whitening is a great way to enhance the appearance of your smile, it's not always for everyone. Those with deep, dark stains that remain unaffected by whitening treatments and patients with regular tooth sensitivity may not be good candidates. Find out more about Zoom! Smile Whitening at our web site; and when you are ready to have a whiter, brighter smile contact Dr. Blourchian's office for an evaluation!

Cosmetic dentist. General dentist. How are they different?

2009-10-15T10:50:00.001-07:00

We at New Image Dentistry like to tell our patients that with us, you get two dentists for one. You get the care and attention to your good oral health that any good general dentist provides. But on top of that, you get a dentist who understands the impact of a bright smile and straight teeth.

Cosmetic dentists undergo extra training to stay on the leading edge of restorative techniques. We can whiten teeth, perform implants, add veneers, even straighten minor crooked teeth. All the while, we’re keeping an eye on your dental health. Your teeth will be in great shape, and your smile will be stunning!

National Dental Hygiene Month

2009-10-08T10:10:00.000-07:00

Did you know that October is National Dental Hygiene Month? Fall is here, and Halloween is coming soon, but now it is more important than ever to maintain good oral hygiene.

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats can damage your teeth and braces too! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! After eating these candies, be sure to wash your mouth out with water, drink milk or eat a few slices of cheese. These will help neutralize the acid in your mouth (wait at least one hour before brushing your teeth with toothpaste, as this can actually increase the effects of acid on your teeth)

Besides cavities and tooth decay, many people do not realize that good oral health and hygiene are important to your overall health too! Research is discovering the connection between periodontal disease and other major health concerns, such as heart disease! Therefore, it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine: see Dr. Blourchian every six months, brush and floss daily and use an antibacterial mouthwash.

Make a resolution to improve your oral health for October, the National Dental Hygiene Month!

--New Image Dentistry, Franklin TN

Oral Piercing: Is It Worth It?

2009-09-30T12:43:00.000-07:00

Piercing, like tattooing, is one of today’s popular forms of “body art” and self-expression. If you’re thinking about getting a piercing – or if you already have one or more – there are some health risks you should know about.

Your mouth contains millions of bacteria, and infection is a common complication of oral piercing. Just touching your mouth jewelry (tongue barbells and lip and cheek labrettes) can lead to infection. Many people who have piercings tend to regularly touch them – which is a perfect opportunity for bacteria from hands to enter piercing sites. Also, food particles that collect around piercing sites can lead to infection.

Pain and swelling are other possible side effects of piercing. Your tongue – the most popular piercing site in the mouth – could swell large enough to close off your airway! Piercing also can cause uncontrollable bleeding or nerve damage. Damage to the tongue’s blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.

The hoop, ring, stud, and barbell-shaped jewelry can hinder your ability to talk and eat. Some people also develop a habit of biting or playing with their piercings – which can lead to cracked, scratched teeth; gum damage and recession; and sensitive teeth. There may also be a need for restorations, such as crowns or fillings, and additional dental treatment due to piercings.

Consider the potential pitfalls of piercing carefully before getting one. Keep in mind that it will be an added responsibility to your life, and will need regular upkeep. Make sure that you’re committed to the task of taking care of it for the full healing period and beyond.

If you have an oral piercing, pay special attention to it. Clean the piercing with antiseptic mouthwash after eating, and brush the jewelry when you brush your teeth. Of course, let us know if you have any questions.

--New Image Dentistry

Under Armor Performance Mouthwear now at New Image Dentistry!

2009-09-23T11:01:00.000-07:00

Part of maintaining a healthy smile is protecting it from injury! For those of you involved in sports, mouthguards are popular method to protect your teeth. Dr. Blourchian has been recently certified as an Under Armor dental provider, and can now offer the exclusive Under Armor Performance Mouthwear line.

So what is the difference between a regular mouthguard and one of the UA Performance Mouthpieces? Several studies have concluded that teeth clenching, a common reflex during athletic activities, can release hormones that hurt your overall performance. By using an Under Armor Performance mouthpiece, you not only protect your teeth, but you perform better!

Under Armor has developed several different types of performance mouthpieces for sports ranging from football and hockey to gymnastics, golf and tennis. You can learn more about the benefits of each mouthpiece on the Under Armor web site.

Give us a call at 615-656-3534 to schedule an appointment. We will first take an impression of your teeth, and then send it to the Under Armor labs. Once the completed mouthpiece has arrived at our office we will schedule a final fitting.

Professional Whitening Trays from New Image Dentistry

2009-09-18T14:14:00.001-07:00

Have you been considering teeth whitening, but feel overwhelmed by the different options available to you? You've seen the toothpastes and mouthwashes aimed at giving you a whiter smile. These in-home products can help reduce stains from coffee, tobacco, tea, wine and other heavily pigmented foods, but they will not dramatically change the color of the teeth.

We're sure you have also seen the over the counter whitening strip kits. While these can work well for young adults and teens, their effect for adults is often not as effective. These strips only treat the front six or eight teeth, and cannot whiten your entire smile.

So what is the answer? One of the methods we offer at New Image Dentistry is professional custom whitening trays. These are an easy way to whiten all of your teeth and allow you more control of the whitening process. Once we create your trays in the office, the whitening kit can be used in-home, and comes with custom whitening gel in various strengths depending on the sensitivity of your teeth.

These trays are comfortable to wear, and the application time is only about 15 to 30 minutes. If you have been considering a teeth whitening solution, give us a call at 615-656-3534 today!

Cosmetic Options for a beautiful smile!

2009-09-11T14:01:00.000-07:00

There are many treatment options available to you with cosmetic dentistry that allows you and your doctor to create that beautiful smile you have not only dreamed of, but the smile that you deserve.

Some of your basic cosmetic options include natural tooth colored fillings, porcelain, metal, or composite crowns that strengthen and improve the shape of your teeth, and bonding to repair slight chips, discolorations, or crooked teeth.

If you are missing any teeth, it is very important to replace them. Dental implants are made of steel and porcelain and look just like your natural tooth. You may also want to consider a bridge. Bridges are made up of two crowns and a natural looking false tooth that are supported on both sides by your natural teeth.

Another option is Veneers; custom designed “shells” that cover your natural tooth to enhance your teeth for a more aesthetic smile.

If you’re interested in learning more about cosmetic dentistry, and all of the wonderful options available to you, please call our practice at 615-656-3534 to schedule an appointment and consultation.

--New Image Dentistry

Have you had a dental checkup recently at New Image Dentistry?

2009-09-01T10:14:00.001-07:00

Even if you brush and floss daily, it is still important to see us at New Image Dentistry every 6 months. Why?

-We can detect and treat tooth and gum problems that you may have never felt or noticed.

-Even thorough daily oral care may not be enough to prevent cavities and oral decay.

-Frequent visits can allow us to treat a problem early to prevent future complications.

If you are overdue for an appointment with us, call 615-656-3534 today!

--Dr. Blourchian & Team

Let’s Talk About Toothpaste, From New Image Dentistry

2009-08-26T14:14:00.000-07:00

Have you been trying to go a little greener these days? Maybe you spend more time comparing organic and non-organic products at the store? If this is the case, then perhaps you’ve noticed that organic and natural items have begun to pop up in more aisles than just produce!

The good news is that you can smile - you’ve got tons of choices, even when it comes to your dental health. Let’s start with toothpaste. There are so many different brands to choose from, and now you must make the choice between natural toothpaste and regular toothpaste.

Some of your natural toothpaste brands include:

• Tom’s of Maine
• Kiss my Face
• Jason Natural Cosmetics
• The Natural Dentist
• Nature’s Gate Organics
• Trader Joe’s All Natural Toothpaste

Regular toothpaste brands include:

• Colgate
• Crest
• Aquafresh
• Arm and Hammer
• Aim
• Oral-B

The good news for you is that both natural and regular toothpastes are good for you and your teeth. The main difference is that natural toothpaste does not contain saccharine (an artificial sweetener) or sorbitol (humectants used to give toothpaste its pasty consistency and keep toothpaste from drying out). Both natural and regular toothpastes contain fluoride, which is essential for protecting the health of your teeth. If you have any questions about a particular type or brand of toothpaste, ask Dr. Blourchian at your next checkup. You can also call our office at 615-656-3534 and we’re happy to answer any questions you may have about your dental heath.

New Image Dentistry Around the Web

2009-08-18T16:35:00.000-07:00

If you've ever visited us at New Image Dentistry, you already know that we love connecting with our patients. We love the ability to communicate with all of you online too! Besides our web site and our blog, New Image Dentistry is on many other networks too!

* Share a video with us, or watch one of ours on YouTube

* Become a "fan" of New Image Dentistry on Facebook

* View and comment on our photos on MySpace

See you around the web!

--New Image Dentistry

Softly Brushing your way to Clean Teeth with New Image Dentistry

2009-08-10T12:03:00.000-07:00

Just as there are so many different types of toothbrushes to choose from, each brush also has a different type of bristle! There are generally three different types of bristles; hard, medium, and soft. We always recommend that our patients, especially children and seniors, use a soft bristled toothbrush.

Using a hard and medium bristled brush can actually harm your teeth and gums by stripping the enamel from the teeth and irritating the gums so that they become red and sore, and can even cause gum recession. If you do use a hard or medium bristled brush as a personal preference, we recommend using an electric toothbrush.

Soft bristles are much gentler on your teeth and gums, and while patients of all ages are recommended to use soft bristled brushes, they are particularly great for children, seniors, patients recovering from a dental procedure, and patients wearing braces.

Soft bristles, and even extra-soft bristles are every bit as effective when it comes to cleaning your teeth; in fact, if you currently use a hard or medium bristled brush, try a soft bristled brush next time you buy a toothbrush and we bet you won’t even notice a difference!

--Dr. Blourchian

Summer Fun with New Image Dentistry!

2009-08-05T13:44:00.000-07:00

Its summer here at New Image Dentistry, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbeque, a camping trip, or just having fun in the sun, we want to hear about it! Leave a comment on our blog and tell us about your summer!

Happy Travels,

-From Dr. Blourchian

Gummy Tummy, with New Image Dentistry

2009-07-27T09:15:00.000-07:00

At New Image Dentistry we know the rumors going around – mostly among young people – that once you swallow a piece of chewing gum it will stake a claim and take up residency in your stomach for at least seven years! We really hate to take all the fun out of the mystery, but the truth is that chewing gum, when swallowed, will enter the stomach and move through the digestive system just like any other piece of food and leave the body long before seven years! So, if you ever have accidentally swallowed a piece of gum, there is no need to worry!

This being said, gum does not have any dietary benefits, so while it’s not harmful to swallow, you still want to avoid swallowing it. If you are a gum-chewer, make sure you chew sugarless gum, because gum with sugar can lead to cavities. Sugarless gum still has the same amount of flavor, but with less cavity causing ingredients. You see, when the bacterium in your mouth breaks down sugar, what’s left behind is acid. This acid eats away at the enamel coating of your teeth, causing holes that we call cavities. Cavities can lead to other long term mouth problems if they are not treated in time, so it is best to try and avoid overexposing your teeth to too many harmful substances!

Happy (sugar-free) gum chewing!

--New Image Dentistry

Bottled Water May Be Behind Tooth Troubles, by Dr. Blourchian

2009-07-20T15:04:00.000-07:00

We at New Image Dentistry want you to know that as more families turn to bottled water and away from the tap, they may be missing out on one important ingredient that most brands of bottled water fail to include: fluoride!

As of 2005, bottled water is second only to soft drinks as the most popular drink in the United States, beating out milk, juice, and – more significantly – tap water. Between 2001 and 2006, the amount of bottled water sold in the U.S. rose an average of 10% per year. And many dental health specialists point to bottled water’s increased popularity as the culprit behind rising rates of cavities.

Because fluoride helps strengthen teeth, it is an important component of maintaining good oral health. The benefits of fluoride were noticed in the early part of the twentieth century, when researchers found communities with low levels of tooth decay. It turned out that these towns had measurable levels (around 1 part per million) of fluoride in their drinking water.

Beginning in the 1940s, communities have fluoridated their water supplies, and dentists have seen a significant decline in cavities ever since. The American Dental Association endorses both community water fluoridation and the use of fluoride-containing products as a safe means of preventing tooth decay. Between tap water and toothpaste, most of us get sufficient amounts of fluoride.

But if your family avoids fluoridated tap water in favor of ever-more-popular bottled water, you could be missing out on the levels of fluoride necessary to make a difference in your oral health.

If bottled water is your water of choice, check the label to make sure that your brand contains fluoride. As of a 2006 decision, the FDA allows bottled water containing .6 to 1.0 milligrams per liter of fluoride to carry a label stating that fluoridated water may reduce the risk of dental cavities or tooth decay. The ADA has backed this decision.

Of course, simply drinking fluoridated water is not a magic ticket to perfect teeth. To keep your choppers in tip-top shape, it’s important to brush and floss daily and avoid sugary sweets, in addition to maintaining your fluoride intake and visiting us at New Image Dentistry regularly.

--Dr. Blourchian

Is Invisalign® Really Customized for Each Patient? Dr. Blourchian Explains

2009-07-13T10:57:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Blourchian is a certified Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, give us a call at (615) 656-3534.

New Image Dentistry Patient Reviews

2009-07-06T16:32:00.000-07:00

We have been hearing some great feedback from our patients at New Image Dentistry, which specializes in cosmetic and implant dentistry in the Franklin and Nashville, Tennessee areas. Take a look at what people have to say about Dr. Blourchian.

New Image Dentistry always confirms appointments. They are on top of billing and I never have to call about mistakes. I like all the people in the office as well. ~ Robert M.

The atmosphere and staff where great at New Image Dentistry. I appreciated the honesty about prices and services before I made my choices. No pressure. ~ Scherra V.

Best dental facility I have been to. Dr. Blourchian was very polite, prompt, helpful and informative. ~ Amber S.

Expertise, Facilities, Staff. All are excellent at New Image Dentistry. ~ Byron S.

Cardiodontics: The Heart Mouth Connection from New Image Dentistry

2009-06-29T10:19:00.000-07:00

If you have been told you have periodontal disease (also known as gum disease or periodontitis), you're not alone. An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of the disease! Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are lost.

Gum disease is a threat to your oral health. Research is also pointing to health effects of periodontal diseases that go well beyond your mouth. So we at New Image Dentistry want to let you know some interesting facts and ways to treat the disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?

"Perio" means around, and "dontal" refers to teeth. Periodontal disease is an infection of the structures around the teeth, including the gums and the bones that hold the teeth. The earliest stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis – an infection of the gums. In more severe forms of the disease, all of the tissues are involved, including the bone. Bacteria that live and reproduce on the teeth and gums cause periodontal disease.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Symptoms may include the following:
--redness or bleeding of gums while brushing teeth or using dental floss
--halitosis, or bad breath
--gum recession, resulting in apparent lengthening of teeth
--"pockets" between the teeth and gums indicating that the bone which holds the teeth in the mouth is dissolving
--loose teeth
Gum inflammation and bone destruction are largely painless. Hence, people may wrongly assume that painless bleeding after teeth cleaning is insignificant, although this may be a symptom of progressing periodontitis. If your hands bled when you washed them, you would be concerned. Yet, many people think it's normal if their gums bleed when they brush or floss.

Periodontal Disease Affects Your Health

Periodontal disease is a putrid, festering infection of the mouth. Bacteria and inflammatory particles can enter the bloodstream through ulcerated and bleeding gums and travel to the heart and other organs. In recent years, gum disease has been linked to a number of health problems. Researchers are studying possible connections between gum disease and:
--Heart disease: Gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease. Gum disease also is believed to worsen existing heart disease.
--Stroke: Gum disease may increase the risk of the type of stroke caused by blocked arteries
--Diabetes: People with diabetes and periodontal disease may be more likely to have trouble controlling their blood sugar than diabetics with healthy gums.
--Premature births: A woman who has gum diseases during pregnancy may be more likely deliver her baby too early and the infant may be more likely to be of low birth weight.

Combating Periodontal Disease

--See your dentist! See your dentist every six months for a checkup! Regular professional cleanings and checkups make you feel good, look good, and could be a lifesaver!
--Brush and floss daily. Take your time and do it right!
--Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash. Daily use of an anti-bacterial mouthwash helps to disinfect the teeth and gums, and reduces the number of bacteria.
--Straighten your teeth. Crowded teeth are nearly impossible to keep clean. Orthodontic treatment can greatly reduce inflammation and periodontal disease.

--New Image Dentistry

How To Stay Young And Healthy from New Image Dentistry

2009-06-18T19:40:00.000-07:00

Whether you’re 5 or 50, your health depends on your awareness of what’s good for you. But in a world filled with fad diets, blaring advertisements, and unintelligible ingredient lists, we at New Image Dentistry know it can be difficult to determine exactly what is good for you – and what’s not.

For straightforward guidance on how to live a long, healthy life, we recommend Brush Your Teeth! And Other Simple Ways to Stay Young and Healthy by Dr. David Ostreicher. The book sums up good health in six fundamental principles: hygiene, diet, attitude, exercise, sleep and personal safety.

Drawing on nearly three decades of experience as an orthodontist and professor of health and nutrition, Dr. Ostreicher definitively answers age-old debates, like the best way to prevent colds and flu (your mom was right: wash your hands). He provides straight talk on a variety of diet choices including salt, fats, carbs and organic food, and he documents the importance of regular sleep, stress reduction and positive thinking to your overall health. His suggestions throughout are simple, clear, and inexpensive.

Dr. Ostreicher advocates a back-to-basics, common-sense approach to staying young and healthy. We at New Image Dentistry couldn’t agree more, and we’d like to repeat the title of his book as our favorite piece of advice: don’t forget to Brush Your Teeth!

Congratulations Tonya from New Image Dentistry

2009-06-09T22:27:00.000-07:00

At New Image Dentistry, we are happy to feature one of our patients. Tonya has been a regular patient in our office for awhile and we have seen how much effort and care she has put into her dental health. Tonya is truly a pleasure to be around. We want to take a moment to congratulate her, so we asked her a couple questions about her dental care!

How do you feel about getting the dental work done in our office?
- I actually don’t panic when I come, because no matter what I know Dr. B will make sure I am not in pain.

Do you have a new perspective on dental health and the role it plays in your overall health?
- Yes. Because I take better care of my teeth now than I ever have, I feel I’m better educated when it comes to my overall health.

How do you feel your experience has been at New Image Dentistry?
-Great!

How has your perception of dentistry or dental offices changed, if at all?
I used to just go to the dentist if I only had pain, but now it has become a normal healthy routine.

Do you want to say anything to people who do not get regular dental care?
Yes. To avoid serious pain and overall health problems I recommend regular dental care.

What do you do for fun?
Mosaic tiling, quilting, knitting. I watch movies with my husband.

More Information On Dental Implants From New Image Dentistry

2009-05-29T07:49:00.000-07:00

At New Image Dentistry, we specialize in dental implants. We found this very informative web site for consumers about implants. Here's what they had to say!

Dental implants are stronger and more durable than their restorative counterparts (bridges and dentures). Implants offer a permanent solution to tooth loss. Additionally, implants may be used in conjunction with other restorative procedures for maximum effectiveness. For example, a single implant can serve to support a crown replacing a single missing tooth. Implants can also be used to support a dental bridge for the replacement of multiple missing teeth, and can be used with dentures to increase stability and reduce gum tissue irritation.

Procedural advancements, including the development of narrower “mini” implants, mean that more people than ever before are finding themselves candidates for implantation. However, candidacy for implantation still varies, meaning that your dentist may determine that you should opt for an alternative restoration. At New Image Dentistry, we do both phases of surgical and restorative implant dentistry, and having both done by the same clinician means the procedure is more convenient and successful!

We also use I-Cat 3d imaging which makes dental implant placement a safe and predictable procedure.

What to do if you have ill-fitting dentures? Dr. Blourchian Answers

2009-05-21T14:47:00.001-07:00

At New Image Dentistry, we know that many denture wearers are unable to enjoy the simple pleasures of life that so many of us take for granted. Chewing becomes a difficult and frustrating experience. Diet will consist of mainly soft foods that lack nutrients and fiber. Loose or ill-fitting partials or dentures can also affect your general health.

Dental implants, offered for our Nashville and Franklin-area patients, can restore the quality of life for people who wear dentures. The boost in self-esteem and confidence that accompany a smile restored with dental implants can drastically improve the overall health of patients who previously suffered from loose or ill-fitting partials or dentures.

If you experience problems with your partials or dentures, implant dentistry may be the solution for you. Get in touch with New Image Dentistry in Franklin to schedule a consultation.

Dr. Blourchian Explains The Benefits of Dental Implants

2009-05-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

Dr. Blourchian and New Image Dentistry have a new approach to cosmetic dentistry that keeps you shining bright longer and spares the adjacent teeth unnecessary dental work.

Dental implants are the best option for Nashville, Franklin, and Cool Springs-area residents who have a compromised or severely damaged tooth with a questionable future. Instead of spending time, money, and effort trying to save a severely damaged tooth that will probably be the cause of future problems, dental implants fix the problem permanently.

There are several benefits of implant dentistry including:

--Firm and stable teeth
--Prevents destructive bone loss caused by dentures
--More comfort and ease with chewing
--Improved appearance
--Helps maintain healthy adjacent teeth

Dental implants are an excellent option for patients who want to restore their smile. For more information about implant dentistry, contact the office of Dr. Blourchian in Franklin today.

New Image Dentistry And Their Fabulous Team!

2009-05-07T11:35:00.000-07:00

Having started our New Image Dentistry Office about a year and half ago, I have a small, yet highly effective team. Our team consists of: Jennifer, the hygienist, Leslie, the dental assistant, and Diane, the patient care coordinator.

Jennifer has been with me for years, even before I started my new office. Last year she completed the local anesthesia training at UT Memphis. Now she gives most of the injections in our office. I am so glad to delegate this job!

Leslie and Diane joined our team last summer. My wife, Yasmin, does some part time hygiene work as well.

After being in the dental profession for 18 years, I can confidently say that I have never been as proud of my team as I am now. My team members are leaders in their own fields. I am confident that my patients are being taken care of in the best way, be it clinical or administrative. They are highly motivated professionals who strive each and every day to help our practice and patients. They frequently get compliments from our patients.

I depend on my team for their thoughts, inputs, and sometimes their criticism.

Dentistry has been very pleasurable (really!) to me all my career. Having this team on my side has made it even more fun!

Stop by New Image Dentistry for yourself to see what a great team we have!

Dr. Blourchian Explains What To Do In Case of a Dental Emergency

2009-04-27T14:09:00.000-07:00

Spring is here and with it comes so many sports! At New Image Dentistry, we want you to be prepared in case a dental emergency comes up, so we asked Dr. Blourchian to answer some common questions.

What should I do if I experience an injury to my face and I lose a tooth?

You need to see your dentist and get x-rays to see what your possible solutions are.

If I lose a permanent tooth due to a facial injury, can it be put back?

Typically no, but your dentist may be able to if it is done rather quickly. Keep it in milk and get in to see your dentist as soon as possible.

If I lose a baby tooth due to a facial injury, will that make my teeth crooked later?

Yes and No. If the baby tooth was about to fall out, it will not affect your permanent teeth. However, if the permanent teeth is not ready to erupt, you will need a "space maintainer" to keep your bite from collapsing, which could cause a problem for the unerupted tooth.

What should I do if I chip or break my tooth while playing sports?

If you can find the broken piece, put it in milk and call your dentist.

Can a chipped, cracked, or broken tooth be fixed?

Of course. We can sometimes just bond the broken piece back, and if not there are many cosmetic dentistry solutions we offer at New Image Dentistry to help you obtain your ideal smile.

Dr. Blourchian; Getting Smart About Wisdom Teeth

2009-04-20T10:55:00.000-07:00

If you were waiting for some extra brainpower to kick in with the arrival of your wisdom teeth, don’t hold your breath. Wisdom teeth are intelligent only in name, and are actually correlated with an advance in age, not an increase in smarts.

Most people develop three sets of permanent molars throughout youth and early adulthood. The molars appear in each of the four quadrants of the mouth (right, left, top, and bottom). The first set grows in, or erupts, around age six, and the second around age twelve. The third and final set of molars generally appears during the late teens or early twenties. Because this age has traditionally been considered one of increased knowledge, third molars are fondly (if inaccurately) referred to as “wisdom teeth.”

While in many mouths, wisdom teeth arrive in perfect formation – aligned properly with respect to the jaw and the second molars – frequently they are instead impacted, which means they either do not fully come in, or they come in misaligned.

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a number of problems, the most common being:

--Infection: When a wisdom tooth only partially erupts, it leaves an opening that bacteria can enter, leading to infection.
--Tooth damage: If a wisdom tooth erupts at an odd angle, it can cause damage to nearby teeth. Some wisdom teeth erupt at angles toward or away from second molars, or toward the inside or the outside of the mouth.
--Cyst formation: In some cases, a cyst, or fluid-filled sac, forms, and can cause pain as well as damage to the jawbone and tooth roots.
--Tooth decay and gum disease: Due to impaction, as well as location in the rear of the mouth, wisdom teeth can be difficult to brush and floss. Uncared-for teeth are more likely to decay, which can lead to gum disease.

Symptoms of impacted molars include pain, jaw stiffness, swelling of the face, swelling of the gums, and oral infection. If you experience any of these symptoms, give us a call immediately at New Image Dentistry. We can assess the situation and recommend a specialist if necessary.

In many cases, an impacted wisdom tooth must be removed. And depending on the information gleaned from x-rays of your mouth, we may recommend that wisdom teeth be extracted before they even begin to erupt. An early removal can avoid painful problems and complicated extractions in the future. Extraction is a simpler procedure at an earlier age, because the tooth roots are smaller and the jawbone is less dense. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons estimates that about 85% of third molars will eventually need to be removed. But, if you are able to keep them clean and they cause no other problem, you may hold on to them. Wisdom teeth are not used for chewing food and are hard to keep clean.

You may wonder why we develop third molars, if they are so commonly problematic. Anthropologists believe that the course of human evolution has involved a shrinking of the lower jaw, which leaves less room for these formerly useful teeth. As the last teeth to arrive, third molars are often faced with a game of musical chairs. In many cases there is no chair (space on the jaw) for these teeth to sit upon.

A complimentary theory finds that as the human diet has progressed from an abundance of meat, uncooked greens, nuts, and other foraged food to a “softer” diet, our third set of molars has been rendered unnecessary. A molar that has found a way to avoid working – now that sounds like one smart tooth!

If you have any more questions about your wisdom teeth or about cosmetic dentistry in general, give us a call at New Image Dentistry.

How Dr. Blourchian Remains At The Forefront of Cosmetic Dentistry

2009-04-14T09:16:00.000-07:00

As a dental healthcare provider, I believe it is my duty to keep up with advances in my field. Dentistry has changed much within the last 10 years. I have always been an enthusiastic participant in various continuing education courses in my professional life.

Since I enjoy what I do, I very much enjoy taking various continuing education courses. It helps me grow professionally and keeps my job interesting by learning and adding new skills.

I have taken hundreds of hours of classes every year for many years. From being certified in Invisalign, to many hours of courses on cosmetic dentistry, TMJ, sedation, and dental implants.

Within the past few years, I have placed more emphasis on dental implants and tissue reconstruction. It is a very exciting field because there is so much opportunity for professional growth and advancement. Two years ago, I received the fellowship in the ICOI (International Congress of Oral Implantologists).

All this, of course, is ultimately geared to help the care I provide for my patients and benefit them.

Dr. Blourchian

New Image Dentistry Prepares You For Spring with Custom Made Mouth Guards

2009-04-06T11:27:00.000-07:00

Teeth work best when they’re snug in your mouth; but in some situations permanent teeth may become loose or even worse, fall out, because of an injury to the mouth!

Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. With winter on its way out, many children, teens, and even adults will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement, and lace up the cleats to hit the fields for the return of spring sports! Because of all this heightened activity, April is National Facial Protection Month!

At New Image Dentistry, we have a few pointers that will help every active child, parent, weekend warrior, and professional athlete play it safe this spring:

Where can I find a good mouth guard? What is the best brand of mouth guard?

Well, since a mouth guard has to fit your specific mouth, it needs to be custom made.

Does your practice sell mouth guards?

At New Image Dentistry, we custom make mouth guards to fit your mouth.

If I have braces, can I still wear a mouth guard?

Yes, it is even more important to wear mouth guards while wearing braces, since braces can cause a lot more damage to your cheeks if you are involved in an accident.

If you have any more questions about mouth guards, or want to come in and have us custom make you one. Give us a call at New Image Dentistry!

Dr. Blourchian Answers Teeth Questions

2009-03-30T15:40:00.000-07:00

We all have so many questions about our teeth and don't always get a chance to ask them when we are at the dentist. So we asked Dr. Blourchian to talk about some of the more common concerns regarding those pearly whites.

Can fingernail biting cause damage to my teeth? What about lip biting or biting the ends of pencils?

Fingernail biting is not a good habit to have, but it won't damage healthy teeth. Same goes for the ends of a pencil. However, you'll want to avoid chewing hard objects on your fillings. If you have a filling on the edge of a tooth, hard objects such as a pencil can cause severe damage.

It’s said that the changing seasons can have an effect on your body and joints. Can the seasons changing also have an effect on the way my mouth feels?

The seasons themselves won't hurt your teeth, but if you develop sinusitis from the weather, it may mimic a toothache on your upper molars.

Is a soft toothbrush or a medium toothbrush better for my teeth and gums?

We only recommend a soft toothbrush. It is the only option that is gentle enough on your gums. And remember to replace your toothbrush once the bristles start to bend sideways.

If I play sports and use a mouth guard can constantly biting down on the hard rubber eventually cause my teeth to shift and become crooked?

Your mouth guard won't cause damage if it is constructed properly and fits passively. If it does not fit properly, you will need to get another size. If you are uncertain, bring it by New Image Dentistry and we will give you our professional opinion.

What Kinds Of Food Are Healthy For My Teeth? Dr. Blourchian Tells All

2009-03-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

At New Image Dentistry, we know that there are so many questions about your teeth and you may forget to ask your dentist. So we asked Dr. Blourchian to share industry secrets about your pearly whites.

Which foods and drinks are actually healthy for my teeth?

Well, an apple or sugar free gum can cleanse the teeth for you. And any drink that has fluoride and no sugar (like tap water) is good also. Beside that dentists are mainly concerned with foods--and especially drinks--that can harm your teeth.

Can hard candies or hard mints cause damage to my teeth?

Yes, they sure can crack or break your teeth! Especially if you have large silver fillings.

Is sugar-free gum good for my teeth, or can it still cause cavities?

It is good for your teeth, because it does not have sugar and it stimulates salivary flow, which cleanses the teeth. However, if you have TMJ problems, you don't want to chew gum.

Does alcohol have an effect on the health of my teeth?

No.

Are spicy or acidic foods bad for my teeth?

Yes they dissolve the minerals in your enamel, causing sensitivity and weakness of teeth. If it becomes a habit, you will actually lose enamel!

Hope these pointers help. Stay tuned for next week, we'll have Dr. Blourchian cover even more topics!

New Image Dentistry Uses the Latest in X-Ray Technology

2009-03-16T14:30:00.000-07:00

At New Image Dentistry, we use low radiation x-rays. Because the x-ray dosage is so low, it is essentially without any adverse effects to the patient. If digital x-rays are used, that cuts down the amount of radiation even further.

There is no alternative to an x-ray, and x-rays are essential for Dentistry. However, we use new methods to take x-rays. For example, we have a CT-Scan cone-beam device in our office that takes a 3D view of the subject area. It is a giant leap forward in Dentistry, but it still uses x-ray radiation.

At our office, we also cover our patients with non-lead aprons that are lightweight and protect from radiation. The shielding material is hi-tech; NASA developed it!

We try to avoid x-rays if a patient is pregnant, and we ask that all metal objects be removed from around the patient’s head and neck before the x-ray. Some mouth piercings can get in the way, so remove them if you can. Children under 7 can receive x-rays, if needed.

The Buzz Around Fluoride with Dr. Blourchian

2009-03-09T13:24:00.000-07:00

Dr. Blourchian's Adorable Daughter

Recently there has been quite a buzz about fluoride - is it good for me, is it bad for me, how much do I need to stay healthy, and so on. A lot of toothpastes advertise fluoride as a main ingredient; and of course, we cannot forget drinking water! So how much really is too much when it comes to fluoride? Dr. Blourchian answers these important questions!

1. Is fluoride good for my teeth, or bad for my teeth?

Fluoride, in the amount found in drinking water (1 part per million), is very good for the teeth.

2. When I was younger, my dentist told me to use fluoride, do I still need to use it as a teen? As an adult?

Everybody would benefit from fluoride use, especially teens that drink a lot of soda and may neglect proper oral hygiene. Also people with a lot of fillings or caps would benefit.

3. How much fluoride should I be using each day?

No additional amount of fluoride is necessary if you drink tap water and do not replace it with bottled water. However, people who stop using tap water completely do not have access to fluoride. For them, daily use of fluoride is mandatory.

4. Many toothpastes say that fluoride is an ingredient, is this enough or do I still need a rinse in addition to brushing and flossing?

Again, if you do not drink tap water, you need a fluoride supplement.

5. Are there any at-home remedies (such as baking soda and peroxide) that I can use instead of fluoride?

No. Fluoride is unique because it incorporates the crystalline structure of enamel and hardens it. Nothing else will do the trick.

6. I’ve heard that fluoride can actually stain teeth or leave behind spots. Is this true? How can I avoid staining my teeth but still keep them healthy? If my teeth become stained or spotted, how can I fix this?

The amount of fluoride in drinking water is safe. If one drinks well water while growing up, and that well water has excess amounts of natural fluoride, a condition called fluorosis develops that causes the teeth to darken. Veneers are usually the best way to fix that problem.

7. Should I drink water with fluoride or without? How much fluoride should there be in the water I drink? How can I tell if there is enough fluoride in my water?

You should drink water with fluoride. Tap water in most cities and towns are adequately fluoridated (one part per million). You can check with your local water department to find out whether or not your tap water is fluoridated.

8. Do you recommend fluoride for all your patients? Should certain people avoid using fluoride?

I recommend fluoride for anybody and everybody. Every person using fluoride benefits.

9. Is it best to use over-the-counter fluoride or to have a prescription? If I use over-the-counter fluoride, what brand do you recommend?

I recommend prescription fluoride, because I don't know how other ones measure. An important thing to remember is that you should NOT swallow the fluoride supplement. If you have any more questions, contact New Image Dentistry.

Make Your Best First Impression With an Invisalign Smile -- New Image Dentistry

2009-03-02T12:19:00.001-08:00

“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

This age-old aphorism has been used to describe situations in business, in Hollywood, in the classroom, as well as in simple everyday life. A recent piece of research confirms the sentiment, with a particular emphasis on the impression made by the quality of your smile – and the teeth it reveals.

According to a study conducted by Beall Research & Training of Chicago, Illinois, on behalf of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, your smile has quite a lot to say about you to strangers.

Researchers showed hundreds of Americans photos of eight individuals. Some of the photos showed the individuals before undergoing dental improvements, and some showed them after. The “before” photos all showed people within in a normal range of dental quality: there were no rotten or missing teeth, for example. The level of improvement displayed in the “after” photos ranged from mild, to moderate, to major. Those viewing the photos were not told that the subjects of the images had undergone dental improvements.

The results were telling. Across the board, respondents indicated that the people in the “after” photos were more attractive, intelligent, successful in their career, friendly, interesting, sensitive to other people, happy, kind, popular with the opposite sex, and wealthy than the people in the “before” photos.

If something is bothering you about your smile, give us a call at New Image Dentistry. We are certified Invisalign practitioners. Time-tested by over half a million people, Invisalign allows you to improve your smile invisibly, with no metal wires or bands. Adults and teenagers alike opt to straighten their teeth with a series of clear aligners, which can be removed for meals and cleaning, as well as on special occasions.

Your new, improved first impression could be right around the corner. Call us today at New Image Dentistry!

The History of the Luxurious Armana Center in Franklin, Tennessee

2009-02-23T10:19:00.000-08:00

We opened New Image Dentistry in the world-class Armana Center on October 15, 2007 in Franklin, Tennessee. Situated on the third floor, the office overlooks rolling hills, beautiful trees, and a lovely pond, all designed to make your dental visit relaxing and pain-free. Dr. Blourchian owns the building and oversaw every detail in the construction, including the name!

Dr. Blourchian named the Armana Center after his children: the first three letters from the name of his son Armand, and the last three letters from the name of his daughter Ariana. Prior to opening this state-of-the-art facility, Dr. Blourchian practiced in the Nashville area for 17 years.

For full-sized pictures of our spectacular view and to see more pictures of our office visit our MySpace page, and while you're there be sure to add us as a friend!

Meet the New Image Dentistry Team

2009-02-18T10:04:00.000-08:00

Diane C.
Office Manager
I have been in the dental field for over ten years. I enjoy my position at New Image Dentistry which has expanded my knowledge in both cosmetic dentistry and computer technology. I feel New Image Dentistry offers a safe haven for treatment. Many of our patients haven’t been to a dentist in many years due to fear or shame. I promise that at New Image Dentistry we will never make you feel ashamed or uncomfortable about your teeth.

In my spare time you will find me out for a good walk or at the computer putting together fun family video scrap books. I love to spend vacations and holidays visiting my grandchildren or taking a nice ride on a cruise ship.

Jennifer H.
Dental Hygienist
As one of the hygienists at New Image Dentistry, I enjoy working both with Dr. B and the rest of the team. We manage to grow both in knowledge and skills, while still having a good time enjoying each day. The best part of my job is getting to know our patients. I enjoy hearing about our patients' families, vacations and humorous stories. Working at New Image Dentistry has provided the most opportunity for growth during my sixteen years as a dental hygienist. This is because Dr. B himself is always seeking to expand his own knowledge and skills, so he expects the same of his staff. I find Dr. B to be someone who challenges me to be my best, both personally and professionally, and he has a dry, quick wit about him that catches me off guard, even after having worked for him for years.

When I am not laughing at work, I am laughing at home with my wonderful husband and my two silly little girls. If I am not laughing, then I am either reading, napping, gardening or daydreaming of the next tropical vacation that I want to take!

New Technology Turns Dentistry 3D at New Image Dentistry

2009-01-30T10:16:00.000-08:00

When you visit the dentist you want to know that you’re receiving the most accurate diagnosis and treatment. With the i-CAT™ 3D scanner accuracy is always guaranteed!

New Image Dentistry is the only dental practice in Franklin and Brentwood, TN that offers i-CAT 3D scanning. Our practice uses i-CAT scanning technology for its ability to accurately and efficiently scan images of patients’ oral and maxillofacial structures (the face, mouth, jaw, and skull). Scanning can be done within seconds, and patients are exposed to less radiation than with traditional scanning methods. The images come out with more clarity are make it easier to diagnose and treat any deformities or oral diseases.

We encourage you to learn more about i-CAT 3D scanning technology, as well as how cosmetic dentistry can benefit your smile! Contact our practice at (615) 656-3534 to schedule an appointment, or visit our web site for more information about our practice.