It’s open season for many choosing health insurance for 2019, and we hear more and more questions about dental insurance. One of the questions we hear frequently is this one: Is dental insurance really worth it? If you have terrific, low-cost dental coverage through your employer, that’s something to celebrate. But in some cases, dental insurance can actually be more expensive than paying out of pocket for dental care. And if you don’t have dental coverage, don’t panic. There are a lot of … [Read more...]

There is a range of factors associated with oral cancer. But there’s also an elephant in the room: tobacco use is the leading cause of mouth cancer, and quitting is the best prevention tool we know. Your dentist is your first line of defense in helping prevent mouth cancer and also in early detection, one more reason that those twice-yearly check-ups are so essential. Remember, it isn’t just about your teeth: a healthy mouth goes way beyond preventing tooth decay. What Is Mouth … [Read more...]

Technology makes so many dental procedures quicker and less painful than ever before, but a tooth extraction still causes fear and trembling for many who need the procedure. This is due in part to the fact that a  tooth extraction is generally more involved than many other dental procedures and because of that, can cause a lot of anxiety. But while a tooth extraction is a surgical procedure and often requires a few days of recovery time, an experienced dentist will be able to reduce pain and … [Read more...]

Besides regular check-ups, cavities are usually the most common reason for visiting a dentist. But patients often have questions about cavities and why they may be prone to getting them. Here’s a 101 on cavities plus tips on treating and preventing them! How Do Cavities Happen? The word cavity suggests a hole, and cavities are tiny holes in the teeth caused by tooth decay. When you eat (and especially when you eat sugary or starchy foods) a sticky coating called plaque can form on your teeth. … [Read more...]

Sometimes stress can really take a toll on our bodies--including our teeth. According to the National Sleep Foundation, one survey shows that around eight percent of adults grind their teeth at night, and some of us may not even realize we’re doing it. But teeth grinding (also known as bruxism) can really weaken your teeth, cause headaches and pain in the jaw--and can also be a sign of broader health problems. So it’s essential to identify and address teeth grinding with your dentist’s … [Read more...]

As our patients age, tooth loss becomes a very real possibility, even for healthy adults who have taken good care of their teeth. When the time comes to replace one or several teeth, dental implants are an increasingly popular choice. We think this is because patients want to maintain not only healthy teeth but also a great smile as they age. If 60 is the new 40, it’s important to have a smile that matches our overall vitality as we move into the senior years. Dental Implants And Quality Of … [Read more...]

It’s happened to many of us at some point – you’re sinking your teeth into a delicious dinner, and suddenly something doesn’t feel right. Your dental filling has fallen out, leaving you with an unexpected hole in your tooth and lots of questions. A lost filling is one of the most common issues dentists are called on to fix. Most fillings aren’t designed to last a lifetime, so if you have fillings, there’s an excellent chance you’ll have to have them replaced at some point. Regular checkups … [Read more...]

Bleeding gums can set off alarm bells for patients and can often be an important wake-up call for gum disease. The most important thing is not to ignore bleeding gums – they’re trying to tell you something!  If you notice bleeding or tender gums, make an appointment with your dentist right away. There is a range of successful treatments for gum disease, and catching it early can make a big difference in the outcome. What Are The Signs Of Gum Disease? Bleeding or tender gums are one of the most … [Read more...]

Have a gap between your front teeth? The old wives tale says it’s good luck. But for a lot of us, it’s just a nuisance that makes us feel self-conscious about our smile. The good news is, in many cases, it’s an easier fix than ever. And your dentist can do it right in their office – no braces required! What Causes the Gap Between My Front Teeth? The front tooth gap (officially known as a maxillary midline diastema) happens when there’s half a millimeter or more between the top front teeth. … [Read more...]

For many of us, the simple phrase “root canal” has become shorthand for pain and the mere idea of the procedure can be cause for fear and apprehension. But, root canals get a bad rap and are not as bad as they are often made out to be. In fact, once a tooth has reached the point where the nerve is severely damaged, a root canal is the only way to save the tooth. What is a Root Canal It helps to understand a little bit more about the way teeth are set up and about the procedure itself. The root … [Read more...]