As a consequence of looking at images that they have taken of themselves with cell phones, some people are scheduling appointments with their dentists for cosmetic work. This self-perceived problem stems from the fact that “selfies” are taken at close distance, which produces a distorted image of their teeth. As a result, the front top
read moreIf you wake up with a dry mouth, you may be breathing through your mouth while you sleep. If so, you should know that nighttime mouth-breathing has been linked with an increased risk of dental erosion and tooth decay. The problem is that breathing through your mouth dries up saliva, which plays a vital role
read moreDeciduous (“baby”) teeth may eventually fall out and be replaced by permanent teeth, but that does not mean that they are expendable or any less important than adult teeth. It is therefore a matter of concern to dentists that 20.5 percent of U.S. children between the ages of two and five have tooth decay in their
read moref gum disease is allowed to occur and progress from its mildest form (“gingivitis”) to its most severe form (“periodontitis”), it will lead to inflammation, bleeding, and even tooth loss (by destroying the bone that supports the teeth). Of course, the best way to avoid tooth loss associated with gum disease is to floss and
read moreNo one likes bad breath, which is good reason to schedule regular dental cleanings and examinations. These provide opportunities for the dentist and hygienist to check for gum disease, which can cause bad breath. At the same time, it’s important to note that a number of medical conditions can also be responsible. Dry mouth, sinus
read moreA comprehensive dental exam goes far beyond looking for signs of tooth decay. It’s also necessary to take a complete medical history to alert the dentist to health conditions and/or medications that may affect future oral health and dental treatments. The dentist or hygienist will want to assess the health of the gums as well,
read moreWhile many people have been led to believe that they should brush their teeth with up-and-down motions, the proper way to brush is actually in circular motions. Not only does this way of brushing get tooth surfaces clean, but it also massages and stimulates the margins of the gums. For individuals with crooked teeth, it
read moreConsuming sports drinks, fruit juices, and carbonated beverages that are high in sugar content is not the only habit that can threaten the health of your teeth. Habits involving chewing on pencils and ice can also cause teeth to crack. If this absentminded chomping on inappropriate objects irritates the soft tissue inside a tooth (pulp), sharp
read moreWhile research indicates that women are more likely to have cavities than men, females tend to have better overall dental health. Perhaps this is due to the fact that women are nearly twice as likely to have visited the dentist in the past year. As a result of this proactive approach to dental and periodontal care,
read moreThere has been a great deal of discussion in recent years about the link between gum disease and heart disease. Now, researchers have found the culprit responsible for this link. The bacterium known as “Porphyromonas gingivalis” is well known to dentists and periodontists for causing the development of “periodontitis,” the serious form of gum infection
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