Take a few moments to look at your teeth in the mirror, checking for dark spots or discoloration. Why you ask? They are one of the early warning signs you're developing a cavity.
Are you suddenly experiencing localized hair loss? Whether its on your head or elsewhere on your body, you may want to visit the dentist. Its appearance could be an indication of a hitherto undetected tooth infection.
Gum disease is one condition that can be treated by using lasers, which work to reshape gums and remove bacteria.
Remember that your kids watch what you do and pattern themselves after you. If you regularly go to the dentist, your kids are likely to adopt this as the proper course of action.
What are prosthodontists and what do they do? A prosthodontist is a dentist that makes oral prostheses. He or she specializes in replacing broken, decaying, or missing teeth with dentures, bridges, implants, veneers, and crowns.
What are periodontists? These are the dentists who've taken postdoctoral courses dealing with the teeth’s structural support system. This additional training allows periodontists to address issues concerning the gums and lets them place and repair dental implants.
How does diabetes affect your teeth? Because this disease affects a person's ability to respond to bacterial infections, it can manifest itself as abscesses, swollen gums, and other problems that aren't responding to normal dental care.
Invented by George F. Green in 1868, the first pneumatic dental engine featured a drill driven by bellows connected to a foot pedal. Green also patented the first electric dental drill in 1871, but foot-powered models remained in widespread use until 1900.
Are mouthwashes effective? While not a replacement for brushing and flossing, mouthwashes have been proven to reduce bacteria that can lead to oral problems. In addition, they can be an effective alternative during times when brushing is not possible.
The tooth fairy is just as susceptible to inflation as the rest of the economy. American children now receive an average of $3.00 under their pillows for each tooth. This is up from $2.10 in 2011, and way up from the average nickel or dime in the 1950s.
While it may not seem like it, did you know that saliva is necessary for a healthy mouth? Aside from helping digest food, saliva also washes away food particles and, more importantly, helps control the build-up of bacteria.
Sedatives don't all function at the same intensity. Sedatives can ranging from a slight mild sedation on one end of the spectrum to full unconsciousness on the other end. Dentists usually use mild to moderate sedatives.
It's not just sugary drinks that can cause problems with your teeth. Even sugarless carbonated water can be a problem because the compounds that make the bubbles can erode tooth enamel.
George Washington had dentures made of gold, ivory, and other human teeth. Contrary to popular belief, he never had wooden teeth, though his dentures were still very uncomfortable and made him extremely self-conscious.
Myth: chewing gum causes Temporal Mandibular Joint disorders. Fact: Chewing gum may aggravate the condition, but is typically not the cause. Cartilage damage or injury, alignment, arthritis and chronic grinding are much higher risk factors for TMJ.
If you hate flossing, dental picks are better than not flossing. These don't get quite as deep as full flossing, but they are better than not flossing at all.
Are you interested in whiter teeth or other cosmetic procedures? We can handle many of those treatments in our office and can recommend an excellent specialist for procedures we don't handle.
What is gingivitis? It is a gum disease that results from plaque and tartar not being properly removed from the teeth and manifests itself as red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Daily brushing, flossing and regular cleanings are the best ways to prevent it.
Fortunately, in most cases, the pain associated with TMJ disorders can be alleviated with non-surgical treatments. However, severe TMJ disorders may require surgery.
Remove stains and whiten your teeth by brushing once a week with baking soda or baking powder. You may be surprised to know that these baking ingredients can be used just like toothpaste. Just be sure not to swallow any and to spit it out!
Did you know that, when it comes to filling cavities, unlike a drill, the laser will actually kill the bacteria that caused the tooth decay to begin with? Not only is this a more hygienic method of treatment, but it also results in a stronger bond between filling and tooth.
Dental floss is considered an integral part of gum and dental care these days, but it's really an ancient routine. Researchers have discovered remnants of dental floss and toothpicks in the teeth of prehistoric humans from thousands of years ago.
If your teeth are sensitive to cold or hot foods, you may have a cavity or overly sensitive nerves. Your dentist can recommend solutions.
While orthodontists do fit braces to improve a person's appearance, their services aren’t limited to aesthetic treatments. Their training also lets them rehabilitate patients who have sustained significant dental injuries.
With IV moderate sedation for a dental procedure, you are literally receiving the sedative drug through a vein. This is beneficial, as the drug will not only go to work more quickly but the dentist will be able to continually adjust your level of sedation for maximum benefit.
Though experts are still on the fence, there seems to be a correlation between gum disease and heart health. Studies show that people with gum disease have a greater risk of developing heart conditions as gum inflammation along with bacterial action may narrow important arteries.
If you are pregnant, congratulations! Just be sure to maintain all your dental appointments. The changes you are going through can be problematic for your teeth and gums if you're not careful.
