We share valuable dentist tips & advice to help you thrive.
Pregnancy and Your Dental Health: What Every Mom-to-Be Should Know
Pregnancy is an exciting time, but (as you know) it also brings changes that can affect your entire body—including your dental health. At Thrive Dental
What Happens If You Don’t Get a Child’s Cavity Filled?
If a child’s cavity isn’t filled, the decay will continue to spread, potentially leading to pain, infections, and long-term oral health problems. Cavities don’t heal
Teething: What to Expect and Relief
When your little one suffers with teething pain, this can be frustrating for you and baby. But knowing the signs and symptoms to look can
How To Get Your Kids to Brush Their Teeth
Getting your kids to brush their teeth… it’s one of the trickiest things parents have to deal with. But also one of the most important.
Best kids electric toothbrush
by Dr. Christine Coughlin DDS Thinking of getting an electric toothbrush for your kid? One of the most asked questions I get is: should I
Choose the Best Non-Toxic Baby Toothpaste
by Dr. Christine Coughlin DDS Did you know that you don’t need to use any toothpaste for your baby before age two? The most
All About Baby Teeth Care
Caring for your baby is a huge blessing and responsibility, and caring for their teeth is no exception. We want to make it easier for
Your Kid Needs Braces Sooner Than You Think
by Dr. Christine Coughlin DDS It’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your child’s future. And timing is EVERYTHING. Braces are proven
Caring for baby teeth: 5 things every parent should know
by Dr. Christine Couglin DDS Although baby teeth eventually fall out, they have a lasting effect on your child’s dental health. In this guide, you
How To Prevent Kid’s Cavities
by Dr. Christine Coughlin DDS It’s a question that every parent wants to know: How do I help my kids prevent cavities? Do you want
When Do Baby Teeth Grown In?
Hi, friends! We’re here to talk to you about a question I get asked all the time. When do baby teeth grow in and how
How to Recognize and Treat Gum Abscesses
A gum abscess is a painful, pus-filled infection in the gum tissue that requires immediate dental care. At Thrive Dental & Orthodontics, we want you
7 Ways to Manage Tooth Sensitivity
Dealing with tooth sensitivity—also known as dentinal hypersensitivity—can be a real challenge. Whether it’s that sharp zing of pain when you sip a hot drink
How to Prevent Bad Breath: 6 Tips and Tricks
Bad breath can be a real confidence killer. Whether you’re heading into a big meeting, spending time with family, or going on a date, the
What Your Dentist Can Spot Before You Feel a Thing
Many individuals view dental visits as a response to existing problems—addressing a toothache, fixing a chipped tooth, or treating gum discomfort. However, routine dental check-ups
The Mouth-Heart Connection: How Your Oral Health Impacts Your Heart
When you think about heart health, brushing and flossing might not be the first things that come to mind. However, emerging research reveals a significant
Why Is Preventative Dental Care Important?
If you only see the dentist when something hurts, you’re playing catch-up with your oral health. Preventative dental care is about staying ahead of the
What Will the Dentist Do If All My Teeth Are Decaying?
If your teeth are severely decaying, don’t panic—you’re not alone, and there’s always a solution. Whether some of your teeth can be saved or you
Is It Ever Too Late to See a Dentist?
Absolutely not! No matter how long it’s been since your last dental visit—whether it’s been a few years or even decades—it’s never too late to
Why Affordable Dental Care Is Important
Affordable dental care is essential because it allows people to maintain healthy teeth and gums without breaking the bank. When dental costs are too high,
The Benefits of Routine Dental Visits
Wondering if those twice-a-year dental visits are really necessary? The answer is yes! Routine dental appointments are the key to keeping your teeth and gums
The Benefits of Having a General Dentist
The Benefits of Having a General Dentist If you want a healthy, confident smile, having a general dentist is one of the smartest decisions you
How to Afford a Dentist Without Insurance
No dental insurance? No problem! You don’t have to choose between your budget and a healthy smile. At Thrive Dental and Orthodontics, we believe that
What Is a Deep Cleaning at the Dentist?
A deep cleaning at the dentist, also called scaling and root planing, goes beyond a regular teeth cleaning. It’s a specialized procedure designed to remove
How Does a Dentist Fix a Cracked Tooth?
Fixing a cracked tooth depends on the severity of the damage. Dentists may use bonding for minor cracks, crowns for larger fractures, or root canals
What is a Tooth Cavity and What Does it Look Like?
I still remember when I got my first cavity. Nothing hurt, so I didn’t realize I had a cavity until much later when the tooth
Does Insurance Cover Wisdom Teeth?
Yes, most dental insurance plans cover wisdom teeth removal, especially if the procedure is deemed medically necessary. However, the exact coverage depends on your policy.
5 everyday habits that are damaging your enamel
by Dr. Christine Coughlin DDS Do you ever clench your teeth when you’re stressed? I do! Do you sometimes use your teeth to open packages
How To Choose The Best Dentist for Your Family
Finding the best dentist for your family can be one of the most nerve-racking decisions in life. You want to find someone you can truly
How to Prevent Gum Recession
Hey everyone, it’s Dr. Nate here at Thrive Dental and Orthodontics with my lovely wife, Dr. Christine, who is also a dentist. And we’re going
How To Get Rid of a Toothache at Home
by Dr. Nathan Coughlin Many of us have experienced a toothache at one point or another. A toothache can cause us to stay awake at
What is a Root Canal and How Much Does it Cost?
Hey guys! Dr. Nate here. I want to talk to you about one of the most common dental questions people ask: What is a root
Tooth Abscess Emergency: All You Need To Know
I want to talk to you about a common dental emergency that can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly by an emergency dentist.
The Tooth Will Set You Free From Bad Teeth
Am I born with bad teeth? “I just have bad teeth… my mother had bad teeth… my mother’s mother had bad teeth… and my grandma’s
How To Stop Teeth Grinding Damage
Teeth grinding or clenching – aka Bruxism (caused by a combination of physical, psychological, and genetic factors) is extremely prevalent and affects both adults
Toothpaste: The Best and Worst Ingredients
“What’s the best toothpaste?” This is the number one question patients ask me. Unfortunately, conventional toothpastes contain toxic ingredients that are harmful to our health.
Sonicare Toothbrush Dentist Review
Everyone knows that brushing your teeth is extremely important for good dental health. But brushing the correct way is key. Choosing the right toothbrush will
How To Find the Right Dentist in the Dallas Area
Finding a great dentist in Dallas and close cities like Plano, Frisco, Allen, Richardson, and Sachse is much like finding a trusted doctor or contractor.
How To Prevent Cavities
Dr. Nate here again with my lovely wife, Dr. Christine, and we want to talk to you today about dental cavities. I remember when I
What is a Dental Cavity, Root Canal, and Filling?
If you are Googling this, you’re probably wondering what is a dental cavity and what is a dental filling? That is what I’m going to
Crest Whitestrips: Do They work?
Crest Whitestrips have become extremely popular for their convenience and affordability. They do work and can be an easy solution for whiter teeth, but you need to know
What is The Best Dental Insurance?
When shopping for dental insurance, it can be tough to determine which is best for you. If you’re lucky, your employer may offer dental insurance,
Heal and Prevent Cavities with Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste
If you haven’t heard of Hydroxyapatite (HAp) toothpaste yet, listen up! For dental health and overall wellness, I always recommend using clean, non-toxic products over
Are You Afraid of the Dentist?
Going to the dentist has been on your to-do list for ages, but the thought of going makes you feel…uneasy. Maybe you had a bad
Why We’re Giving You An Electric Toothbrush For Free
Did you know? Dental disease remains the most common chronic disease in children and adults. Around half of US adults have gum disease, and a third
Should Dentists Post on YouTube?
by Dr. Nathan Coughlin Ok, who doesn’t like a good YouTube video every once in a while? YouTube has grown from this tiny little platform
Our story – Thrive Dental and Orthodontics
Welcome, friend. We are so grateful you are here. We are absolutely honored to serve you and your family, and we want to share our
Why Are My Teeth Yellow When I Brush Them Every Day?
You brush twice a day, floss regularly, and still—your teeth look yellow. What’s the deal? The truth is, brushing alone won’t always give you a
How to Fix a Chipped or Broken Tooth
by Dr. Nathan Coughlin DDS Having a chipped tooth can be a traumatic experience for anyone. Whether it’s just a small chip or half the
Dental Crown: Cost, Procedure, Types
Think you might need a dental crown (aka dental cap)? These restorations are extremely common and help so many people improve their smiles. They serve
Are Veneers Worth It?
You’ve probably dreamt about having a perfect, sparkly smile. Maybe to fix crooked, chipped, or discolored teeth? Find out if dental veneers are the right
Before whitening your teeth: 5 things you need to know
You’ve always wanted to try whitening your teeth but thought it’s too expensive (not anymore! – keep reading). Everywhere you look, there’s a new DIY
Got yellow teeth?
One of the most common questions asked by our patients is: What causes yellow teeth? The next is: How do I have a whiter, brighter
Teeth Whitening at Home vs. At The Dentist
by Dr. Christine Coughlin, DDS Everyone wants whiter teeth, but many don’t know where to start. Regarding teeth whitening, there are two options available: whitening
Best ways to whiten teeth fast
Everyone wants straight, white teeth! Patients (and friends and family) ask us all the time what is the best whitening kit or best teeth whitening
How to Care for Your Braces: The Do’s and Don’ts for a Healthy, Happy Smile
Getting braces is a big step! It’s an exciting journey toward achieving a healthy and beautiful smile. But braces also come with a few lifestyle
Can You Switch from Braces to Aligners?
Yes, you can switch from braces to clear aligners in many cases. If you’re feeling frustrated with brackets and wires, switching to a more discreet,
What Is Considered Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment refers to any procedure that helps straighten teeth, fix bite issues, or improve jaw alignment. From traditional braces to Invisalign aligners and retainers,
Can Invisalign Fix an Overbite?
Yes! Invisalign can fix many cases of overbite by gradually shifting your teeth into better alignment. If you have a mild to moderate overbite, Invisalign
Should You Still Go to the Dentist with Braces?
Yes! Even with braces, you still need to visit the dentist. While your orthodontist focuses on straightening your teeth, your dentist helps keep them healthy
Do Your Teeth Stay Straight After Invisalign?
Yes, your teeth can stay straight after Invisalign—but only if you follow through with proper post-treatment care, especially wearing a retainer. Invisalign clear aligners are
What Stage of Braces Hurt Most?
Braces don’t hurt all the time, but certain stages of treatment can cause some temporary discomfort. Most patients—whether kids, teens, or adults—feel the most soreness
Do Adults Get Braces?
Yes, adults absolutely get braces! In fact, orthodontic treatment for adults is more common than ever. Whether you’re looking to fix a lingering dental issue
Do Braces Take Longer for Adults?
Yes, braces can sometimes take longer for adults than for teens, but not always. While factors like bone density and dental history might extend treatment
What Is the Oldest Age You Can Get Braces?
There is no upper age limit for braces! As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you can straighten your smile at any age.
How Long Do You Wear a Retainer After Invisalign?
You just finished up your Invisalign treatment – congrats! But the journey doesn’t end there. Wearing a retainer is a crucial next step to keep
Getting Braces? What to Expect at Your First Few Orthodontist Visits
Your first visit to get braces is very easy. After you fill out the necessary paperwork, we will take a cephalometric and panoramic radiograph. The
Why Choose Braces Over Invisalign
The choice between braces and Invisalign can be made easier if you know the pros and cons of each. Even though, esthetically, Invisalign is your
10 Things to Know Before Getting Invisalign
Hi, I’m Dr. Nate from Thrive Dental and Orthodontics, and I want to talk to you about the ten things you should know before starting
What Happens After Invisalign or Braces Treatment?
Are you about to get your braces or Invisalign off and wondering what the next steps are? Are you nervous about getting your braces or
9 Signs You or Your Child Need Braces
Let me walk you through the steps I look for to determine if you or your child needs braces. First and foremost, we need to
When Can My Child Get Braces?
by Dr. Nathan Coughlin Hey guys, Dr. Nate here at Thrive Dental and Orthodontics, and I want to talk to you about what age is
Why Braces Are Bad For You
By Dr. Nathan Coughlin Braces have many disadvantages, and even though I’m an orthodontist, I wanted to address a question I get asked often: ”
Why Do Braces Cost So Much?
By Dr. Nathan Coughlin Have you ever wondered why braces cost so much? Have you thought that the braces seem so small, so why does
How to Find the Best “Orthodontist Near Me”
Okay, I’m a little biased because I think we have the best orthodontist, but if I were a patient searching for “the best orthodontist near
How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
By Dr. Nathan Coughlin Invisalign is a powerful way to move teeth without metal braces. Invisalign has been around for multiple decades and continues to
Ceramic Braces vs. Metal Braces
Ceramic braces (aka clear braces) are a more aesthetic than traditional metal braces. They are more discreet and blend more with your teeth than metal
Retainers: Cost, Types, How To Wear, How To Clean
A retainer is an orthodontic appliance made to keep teeth in place after braces or shift them to the correct position. It is made
Retainer Brite: Instructions, Review, and Does it Work?
By: Dr. Nathan Coughlin Retainers are a vital part of orthodontics, and Retainer Brite can help keep your removable appliances clean. We spend a lot
Invisalign: Cost, Pros and Cons, What to Expect
Invisalign is one of the most powerful and popular dental advancements today. But there are a few things you must know before getting Invisalign. Having
Orthodontic Check-Up: No Later Than Age 7
Most people think kids must be in their teens or pre-teens for orthodontic treatment. But your child needs an orthodontic exam much sooner. The American
All About Braces To Straighten Teeth
Braces come from orthodontics – a special field of dentistry that focuses on positioning the teeth and jaw. There are several types of orthodontic problems.
Braces: Do All of My Baby Teeth Have to Fall Out First?
Most people believe the myth that you have to wait until all your baby teeth fall out before getting braces. But if you wait that
5 Tips to Keep Your Retainer Clean
by Dr. Nathan Coughlin Keeping your retainer clean is hygienic and can ensure your teeth stay straight for years. As mentioned in Healthline, not taking
Braces: 5 powerful ways they change your life
This one thing could change your life forever. It did for me. I’m talking about braces. If you’re thinking about getting them for yourself, your
Overbite: What It Is and How To Fix It
by Dr. Nathan Coughlin Half of the patients who come into our Thrive Dental offices want to fix their overbite. I love talking about this
What To Know Before Starting Invisalign
by Dr. Nathan Coughlin Invisalign has been around for over twenty years now, and it keeps getting better and better. We get patients every day
How I, An Orthodontist, Put On Braces!
by Dr. Nathan Coughlin The best part of my job is putting on and taking off braces. Both times, the patients are so excited they
All About Clear Aligners
Clear Aligners Before and After Invisalign is an amazing product. It has been around for more than 20 years and continues to get better. Even
Read Before Trying Smile Direct Club or Candid
There has been so much hype in the past few years regarding do-it-yourself (DIY) orthodontics. Smile Direct Club and Candid are the two companies that
Invisalign vs. Braces: Which One is Better?
Ahh, the age-old question: Should teeth be straightened with Invisalign or Braces? Okay, maybe it’s not the age-old question for everyone, but I deal with
What is An Orthodontist?
Hey, guys! Dr. Nate here. Even some of my friends don’t know what I do, so I thought I would explain it here. I want
Will a Dentist Pull an Infected Tooth the Same Day?
Yes, a dentist can pull an infected tooth the same day, but it all depends on your situation. If the infection is manageable and there’s no major
Wisdom Teeth Extraction Tips and Recovery
Wisdom teeth are third molars that are the last to grow in, around 17-21 years. Most people have to get their wisdom teeth removed if
Extracting a Tooth: Cost, What to Expect, Aftercare & Recovery
Tooth extraction is the removal of a damaged or unrestorable tooth. There are 2 types of extractions: simple extractions and surgical extractions. Wisdom tooth extractions are almost always surgical extractions. A tooth
Dry socket Frequently Asked Questions
Dry socket is a painful ailment that happens after a tooth extraction. When the blood clot from the extraction site falls out prematurely (within the first
How Do Dentists Fix a Tooth If It Falls Out?
If a tooth falls out, dentists can either reattach it (if it’s intact and brought in quickly) or offer solutions like implants, bridges, or dentures
Are Dental Implants Worth It?
Yes, dental implants are absolutely worth it for most people seeking a long-lasting, natural-feeling solution for missing teeth. They don’t just restore your smile—they also
How Soon After Losing a Tooth Can You Have an Implant?
In most cases, you can get a dental implant placed just 8-12 weeks after losing a tooth. This waiting period allows your gums and bone
Why You Never Want a Missing Tooth
by Dr. Christine Coughlin DDS “I’d rather just pull it,” said Kevin. “I don’t want to deal with a root canal. I just want to
Dental Implants vs. Bridges
Are you trying to determine if a Dental Bridge or Dental Implant is a better option? I’m going to go through the top reasons you
Dental Bridge: Cost, Procedure, Types, & Alternatives
Think you might need a dental bridge? It’s one of the most common dental procedures for replacing a missing tooth. It’s an excellent solution that
Implant Costs, Types, and How They Work
What is a dental implant? Dental implants are a type of dental prosthesis to replace a missing tooth or missing teeth. They have a screw
