Whether dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, and veneers are supported by natural teeth or implants, they require lifelong care. Newly revised guidelines recommend that patients with dental restorations visit their dentists at least every six months so that the dentist and/or hygienist can clean, adjust, repair, or replace their restorations. The dental team can
read moreIf you’ve ever had a cavity filled, you are probably familiar with the traditional amalgam (“silver”) filling and/or the tooth-colored composite filling. Dental fillings of the future, however, may be composed of something else entirely, as researchers are currently developing “bioactive” glass. This material, a type of crushed glass that is able to interact with the
read moreIf you’ve noticed notches in the enamel of your teeth at the point along which the gums meet the tooth (known as the “gingival margin”), you likely have a form of tooth loss known as “abfraction.” This loss of tooth structure is not caused by decay. Instead, it can be traced to forces exerted on the
read moreAs 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
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