When we think about crooked teeth, we often think of kids. Young children may have uneven smiles as baby teeth fall out and permanent teeth come in. We generally associate orthodontic care with the teen years. However, our teeth don’t stop moving as we age. Adults may experience crowding and other problems related to shifting smiles. Sometimes adults need a little help too. Fortunately, with the advent of clear aligners, improving your smile as an adult is more convenient than ever. Do Our … [Read more...]

We know tobacco use is one of the worst things you can do for your teeth. It causes staining and gum disease and is linked to oral cancer. We might think of vaping as a “safer” alternative to cigarettes. But the more we learn about electronic cigarettes, the more we understand their health risks. From mouth cancer to tooth decay, we now have a better picture of vaping’s harmful impact on oral health. What Is Vaping? E-cigarettes create an aerosol using a battery to heat a liquid containing … [Read more...]

At-home whitening kits have come a long way. You can find all kinds of DIY treatments online or at the drugstore, from portable pens to light-up LED devices. But they don’t always work as advertised, and patients often find themselves disappointed with the results. Fortunately, your family dentist has excellent options if over-the-counter treatments don’t work for you. Why Do My Teeth Get Dingy, Yellow, or Discolored? Our teeth tend to get discolored as we get older. Staining is related to … [Read more...]

Raise your hand if you’ve ever slept through tooth fairy duty. You’re not alone. Most of us have woken up with that sinking feeling at least once in our lives. Some parents adore tooth fairy duty–and others not so much. But regardless of where you stand, wiggly baby teeth and presents under pillows actually offer opportunities to talk about oral health. Every lost baby tooth is a chance to reward excellent oral hygiene and discuss why caring for our teeth and gums is essential. How Much Does … [Read more...]

Who remembers learning about scurvy in sailors in school? This long-misunderstood nutritional deficiency killed millions of sailors over the centuries. Then the scientific community finally discovered the link between Vitamin C and health. Since then, we’ve learned a lot about the essential role vitamins and minerals play in our oral and overall health. A healthy diet, regular preventive dental care, brushing, and flossing are the primary ways to keep our mouths healthy. But sometimes our diets … [Read more...]

An ADA-accepted mouth rinse can be an excellent addition to your oral hygiene routine. By reaching places your toothbrush can’t, mouth rinses can help fight cavities, reduce staining and help with other oral health conditions. But not all mouthwash is created equal. And they’re not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Mouth rinses have become way more sophisticated than back in the days when we all wanted minty fresh breath. There are more choices than ever, and different active ingredients … [Read more...]

Water is life. It’s a cliche, but it’s so true. Drinking water is one of the best things you can do for your overall health. Did you know that water also has plenty of oral health benefits? The simple act of drinking water helps keep our teeth and gums healthy. It’s a simple and powerful step that makes a significant difference. How Does Drinking Water Help My Teeth? It helps clean your teeth. Unlike sodas and sports drinks, which contain sugars and acids that can hurt your teeth, water … [Read more...]

Do you have a missing tooth or teeth? Tooth loss is more common than you think. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, 69 percent of adults ages 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth. Causes include injury, gum disease, unsuccessful root canals and severe tooth decay. Several therapeutic options are available if you have a lost or damaged tooth. Dental implants are a trend, offering the look and feel of a natural tooth. They can help you look and feel … [Read more...]

When our teeth fit together correctly, we may not even think about our bite. But when our teeth are misaligned, it can cause all kinds of oral health problems. We might believe bite problems are simply cosmetic. While it’s true that properly aligned teeth help us look better and boost self-confidence, a bad bite can affect our oral and overall health in ways that aren’t always obvious. Good alignment is essential for healthy teeth and bone and jaw development. If you think you have a bite … [Read more...]

‘Tis the season for treats and festive snacks. But what about our teeth? Can we splurge a little and enjoy holiday foods while staying mouth-healthy? The answer is yes. We can still celebrate and enjoy our favorite foods while maintaining oral hygiene and protecting our teeth and gums. And while we focus on the holiday rush, many patients find that December is an excellent time to catch up on checkups and dental procedures they've been putting off. How Can I Keep My Teeth and Gums Healthy … [Read more...]