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...]

When the time comes for your child’s first dentist visit, you want to be sure the visit will be a success. As we all know, there’s no second chance to make a first impression, and your dentist wants to create a positive first step in a long life of keeping teeth healthy with regular dental care. But even if there are a few bumps in the road, with the right attitude and a few simple practices, you can help make your dentist’s office a positive place for your child. When Should My Child See The … [Read more...]

Dental implants offer a high-tech solution to the common problem of missing teeth. Whether it’s a single implant for a missing tooth or implant-based dentures that correct several missing teeth, implant dentistry has revolutionized the options available to restore a natural looking smile. But the benefits extend beyond aesthetics. Missing teeth can create long-term oral health issues. One of these problems is bone loss. After tooth loss, healthy stimulation of the bone goes with it. If you … [Read more...]

If you need a major dental procedure, or suffer from dental anxiety or discomfort, you may require sedation at some point in the process. In this article, we assess the different types of sedation and explain why you should consider it for specific procedures. What Types of Sedation Are There? Four common types of sedation are used for patients: Inhaled Sedation: This form of sedation is induced with laughing gas (nitrous oxide), which has a short-lived effect and can be rapidly adjusted … [Read more...]