Recent research has indicated that gum disease poses more of a risk to health than the potential for tooth and bone loss. The severe form of gum disease known as “periodontitis” increases the risk of heart disease and other life-threatening conditions. The most recent evidence of a link between oral health and chronic diseases comes
read moreThe term “toothbrush abrasion” refers to brushing one’s teeth so vigorously that tooth enamel becomes damaged and gums recede. This overly energetic brushing leads to thinning enamel and exposed roots that become overly sensitive to hot and cold foods and drink. Avoiding this potential problem begins with selecting a toothbrush with soft bristles that flex
read moreUnless dentures are cleaned daily and properly maintained, they will accumulate food particles and “plaque” (bacterial film) that can lead to bad breath, inflamed gums, and even chronic disease. With this in mind, denture wearers are strongly urged to either brush their prosthetic teeth or soak them in a cleaning solution. Arguably, the best cleaning
read moreIf you have teeth that are severely chipped, cracked, worn, or discolored, there is a procedure that can make them look better than new. Porcelain dental veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that are glued in place over the front surfaces of imperfect teeth, giving them a fresh appearance. To prepare teeth for veneers’ permanent placement,
read moreLast year, approximately 48,000 new cases of oral and throat cancer were diagnosed in the United States. Because dental checkups involve a close look at oral tissues, dentists are often the first to spot oral cancer, which may first appear as red or white patches or sores that do not heal on the tongue, insides
read morePeriodontal (gum) disease, caused by the sticky film of bacteria known as “plaque,” is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. With this in mind, it is important to periodically check the health of your gums. To do so, the dentist or hygienist will measure the depth of the “gingival sulcus groove” along the
read moreIt is important to properly diagnose the cause of “xerostomia” (dry mouth) in order to treat it properly. While many older adults incorrectly assume that xerostomia is a natural part of aging, it is more likely to be a side effect of the 400 or so medications that can affect the salivary glands, including antihistamines,
read moreResearch has debunked any notion that calcium from the mother’s teeth may be leeched during pregnancy to meet the requirements of the growing baby; yet, there may be some truth behind the adage. According to a study of 2,635 women, those with no children had lost one to two teeth while women with children tended
read moreFor patients with minor dental irregularities, “dental contouring” or “reshaping” provides a relatively easy remedy. This cosmetic procedure involves removing small amounts of enamel to minimize or alleviate imperfections. For instance, chipped or fractured areas can be smoothed out, and specific angles or edges can be rounded or squared. Tooth reshaping can also be undertaken
read moreAs effective as flossing is at removing plaque and food particles from between teeth, some people find floss difficult to handle. Others may have trouble reaching certain areas of their mouths with floss. Fortunately, there is an alternative to floss, which is just as effective and easier to use. Oral irrigation with a water-flossing device
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