Chronic periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss, afflicts 47.2 percent of the United States adult population aged 30 years and older. The incidences of moderate and severe periodontitis are estimated at 30 percent and 8.5 percent, respectively, among U.S. adults. In an effort to more effectively treat chronic
read moreWhat separates a “dental implant” from nearly all other forms of tooth replacement is that it feels as natural in the mouth as an actual tooth. This natural feeling is largely attributable to the fact that the titanium implant is surgically embedded in the jawbone so that it looks and functions just as a real
read moreIn order for flossing to effectively deter tooth decay and gum disease, it must be performed correctly. It only takes a minute or two. Begin by winding a piece of dental floss around each index finger. Then, to floss the upper row of teeth, thumbs should be placed about an inch apart from each other
read moreThe industrious beaver may have stained, buck teeth that no human would want, but the beaver’s teeth are much stronger than ours. Although beavers neither brush their teeth nor drink fluoridated water, their tooth enamel is more resistant to acid than ours is. To find out why, researchers took a look at the beaver’s brown
read moreIf you feel so self-conscious about your teeth that you stifle your smile, you owe it to yourself to visit the dentist. Not only does necessary remedial dental care make you more attractive to others, it can also actually make you happier. Recent research into the mind-body connection has led to the discovery that the
read moreIf you are not a fan of dreaded “morning breath” (and who is?), there is a very simple and effective way to banish it. Along with brushing and flossing, many people are embracing the Ayurvedic self-care ritual known as “tongue scraping.” This oral hygiene practice involves using an inexpensive tongue scraper to remove bacteria, food
read moreWhile it may seem that candy poses the biggest danger to children’s teeth, so-called healthy foods such as milk, fruit juices, and formulas may also contribute to decay. These foods have sugars that provide food for decay-causing bacteria. To nip this problem in the bud, parents should wipe off infants’ gums with gauze or a
read moreBecause our smiles are among the first things that people notice about us, the loss of front teeth (due to decay, gum disease, or trauma) can be a matter of considerable concern. Fortunately, dental porcelain is an excellent material for replacing the natural look of real teeth. Whether used to fabricate a crown attached to
read moreThe term “long in the tooth” refers to age-related gum recession, which makes the crowns of older persons’ teeth look longer. Fortunately, there is a simple cure for receding gums, which reduces tooth sensitivity, the incidence of tooth decay, the potential for underlying bone loss, and tooth loss. A “gum graft” involves harvesting tissue from
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