When researchers recently searched the Internet to find what constitutes a perfect smile, using terms such as “best smile” or “ideal smile” and “celebrities” or “Hollywood,” they selected 32 pictures of famous men and 62 images of famous women. They then compared the celebrity pictures with photographs of 200 dental students using computer software that
read moreWhile the electric toothbrush has been hailed for its ability to effectively remove plaque, improper brushing technique can lead to potentially serious problems. To avoid such complications, it is important to note that an electric toothbrush should not be used in the same way that a manual toothbrush is used. Instead of brushing hard and
read moreWhen one or more missing teeth must be replaced, the dentist will likely recommend a “bridge.” This prosthetic device is made of artificial teeth that are fused to a metal frame. This is held in place on either side by virtue of attachment to implants or healthy teeth that are outfitted with crowns. The anchoring
read moreOne of the most effective ways of preventing cavities from forming in the teeth of young children is to coat the chewing surfaces of permanent back teeth (molars and premolars) with a plastic coating that protects them from decay. Research shows that “dental sealants” are quick, easy, and painless to apply and could prevent up
read moreSugar and carbohydrates are not the only things we ingest that have the potential to damage teeth. Many of us also eat foods and drink beverages that contain acids that contribute to “dental erosion.” This underappreciated problem, which affects as many as 20% of the population, begins with softening (demineralization) of the enamel and underlying
read moreChronic sleep deprivation can put you at higher risk for chronic health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Oddly enough, the dentist is often the first person to diagnose a sleep disorder. In particular, “sleep apnea” is a condition that causes repeated breathing interruptions throughout the night. These breathing pauses can
read moreIt is estimated that one-third of Americans over 65 have either dentures or some other type of prosthetic replacement tooth. Although dentures provide patients with a functionally and cosmetically acceptable way to replace teeth at a reasonable cost, they do have a drawback. Because our jawbones tend to shrink as we age, even well-fitting removable
read moreWe’d all like to think that health problems can be solved simply by taking a pill, and some actually are. As far as taking a pill to prevent tooth decay is concerned, researchers may have taken the first step in developing a viable treatment. This research revolves around the discovery of a previously unidentified strain
read moreInflammation has been likened to fire in that it is a smoldering process that has the potential to injure tissues, joints, and blood vessels. “Acute inflammation” helps the body deal with injury and disease by introducing white blood cells that surround the injured or diseased area and fight off invaders that might cause infection. This
read moreWhen a tooth is missing or so damaged that it requires extensive repair, a dental crown is the restoration of choice. Also known as a “cap,” this type of cosmetic restoration has the longest life expectancy of all others. When cemented in place, a crown completely encapsulates the remaining portion of tooth and fully restores
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