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...]

Your child has gone for more than a decade with a spotless record at the dentist. Then all of a sudden, he hits the teen years and gets his first cavity. What’s going on? Why does oral hygiene sometimes slip in the teen years, and how can parents motivate big kids with dental care? And how can parents partner with their teens to keep dental care front and center? What Causes Oral Hygiene to Slide During The Teen Years? When our kids are little, we often find ourselves hovering near the … [Read more...]

Did you know that taking care of your teeth while pregnant can help prevent cavities in your children? We don’t always think about it, but oral healthcare is an essential part of prenatal care. Dental care for moms gives babies a terrific start in terms of both oral and overall health. Seeing your dentist regularly also helps you stay healthy during pregnancy. Should I Be Worried About Getting Dental Care While Pregnant? There’s a lot to worry about during pregnancy. And some moms-to-be are … [Read more...]

A terrific smile is a gateway to a great first impression. There are more options than ever for improving our smile in our dentist’s chair. Of course, excellent oral health is your family dentist’s top priority. But we understand that our patients want healthy and beautiful teeth. Discolored, flawed or chipped teeth can make us self-conscious and lower self-esteem. Cosmetic dentistry is a meaningful option for patients from teens to older adults. And the good news is you don’t need to see a … [Read more...]

Dental anxiety and phobias are real. They’re often rooted in real-life experience and amplified by portrayals in film and television. If you have dental anxiety, it’s essential to acknowledge and address it. But problems arise when folks let their fear keep them away from needed routine care. When we avoid preventive treatment, it creates a vicious cycle of shame and painful oral health problems. Finding a dentist you trust is the first step in overcoming anxiety. What Causes Dental Anxiety? A … [Read more...]

Patient care is at the heart of what dentists do. But the truth is that most dental offices couldn’t run without hygienists. Hygienists are licensed oral health professionals who work hand in hand with dentists to provide excellent care. But they’re also the soul of the practice, helping run things with skill, compassion, and calm. Hygienists build relationships with patients and play a unique role in welcoming and encouraging our youngest patients. They’re rock stars in preventive care and … [Read more...]