Dental FAQs

Your oral and mental health are more closely associated than you probably expect. Steps you can take to improve your oral health can also have a positive effect on your mental health as well.

• Brushing regularly
• Flossing at least once a day
• Maintaining a healthy diet free of excessive sugar
• Abstaining from smoking
• Limiting your consumption of alcohol can all have a positive effect on your mental health and help lower the risk of various mental illnesses.

Learn more in our blog article, “The Link Between Mental Health and Oral Health.”

To care for your oral health properly, it’s important to practice a healthy dental hygiene routine that includes:

• Brushing your teeth twice a day
• Flossing twice a day
• Abstaining from tobacco products
• Limiting your intake of alcohol
• Lowering the amount of sugar in your diet
• Eating a healthy diet
• Seeing your dentist regularly

Learn more in our blog article, “The Link Between Mental Health and Oral Health.”

Practicing good oral hygiene habits is important to maintaining your oral health as well as your whole-body health. Brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist twice a year will help keep your oral health in check and lower your risk of many other illnesses throughout your body.
But good oral health habits affect more than just your physical health. Poor dental health can have a negative impact on your mental health as well. When you do not take proper care of your teeth, it can cause depression, anxiety, lower self-esteem, and more. When you feel down, it can become even harder to maintain a dental hygiene regimen, creating a vicious cycle of unhealthy habits.

Learn more in our blog article, “The Link Between Mental Health and Oral Health.”

Problems with your mental health can create problems with your physical health, and that includes your oral health. If you are suffering mentally, you may not take proper care of yourself and instead turn to unhealthy habits in an attempt to cope, which can cause problems with your oral health. Some examples include:

Neglecting oral care – Mental health problems make it more difficult to maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine.
Diet – People trying to cope with negative emotions may indulge in sugary foods in an attempt to lift their spirits, but this can accelerate tooth decay.
Substance abuse – Smoking and drinking alcohol are common ways to find relief from mental disorders, but these unhealthy habits contribute to gum disease, tooth decay and even cancer.

Learn more in our blog article, “The Link Between Mental Health and Oral Health.”

Yes, various studies have shown a link between poor oral health and negative mental health outcomes. Here are a few examples of ways that oral health problems can affect your mental health:

Lower self-esteem – If you are embarrassed about your teeth, it can make you less confident about yourself, especially if you are already preoccupied with your appearance.
Anxiety – People with oral health problems can become nervous that others will notice their bad breath or see the effects of tooth decay. When the same people already feel anxiety over going to the dentist, it can create a vicious cycle.
Depression – Avoiding social situations due to pain or anxiety can cause people to become socially isolated and sink into depression. The effects can also become cyclical because depression can also lower your body’s ability to fight infections, which can worsen your oral health further.
Physical pain – When your oral health gets worse enough, toothaches and damaged gums can cause physical discomfort, making it more difficult for you to live your life normally.

Learn more in our blog article, “The Link Between Mental Health and Oral Health.”

Yes, your oral health is linked with your whole-body health. We call this the Mouth-Body Connection. Studies show that poor oral health is associated with an increased risk of problems throughout your body, including:

• Heart disease
• Cognitive decline and dementia
• Diabetes
• Pregnancy complications
• Stroke
• Cancer

It is therefore critical for your overall health to maintain a good oral hygiene routine and make regular visits to the dentist.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Hygiene: Tips & Health Issues."

Bad teeth as the result of poor oral hygiene can cause a variety of problems with your oral health, including bad breath, gum disease, toothaches, and much more. But the effects don’t stop there. Bad oral health has been linked with a wide range of issues throughout your body, such as:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Dementia
• Respiratory infection
• Diabetes
• Pregnancy complications
• Infertility
• Erectile dysfunction
• Kidney disease
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Cancer

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Hygiene: Tips & Health Issues."

Maintaining good oral hygiene is important to keep your teeth healthy and prevent a wide range of oral health issues, including:

• Chronic bad breath
• Sensitive teeth
• Dry mouth
• Toothaches
• Bleeding gums
• Receding gums
• Mouth sores and ulcers
• Pain when biting or chewing
• Cracked or broken teeth

But oral hygiene can affect much more than just your mouth. Bad oral health can have a surprising impact on your whole-body health as well.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Hygiene: Tips & Health Issues."

To improve your oral hygiene, create and practice a good oral health routine every day. This includes:

• Brushing regularly for two minutes at a time, twice a day
• Replacing your toothbrush every three or four months
• Flossing at least once a day
• Getting fluoride treatments to protect your teeth
• Avoiding sugary and acidic foods

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Hygiene: Tips & Health Issues."

Good oral hygiene means practicing good oral health habits. By protecting your oral health, you can enjoy a brighter, healthier smile and have a better chance of avoiding various health issues, both in your mouth and throughout your body. Brushing, flossing, eating healthy foods, and getting regular dental checkups and cleanings will go a long way toward maintaining your whole-body health.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Hygiene: Tips & Health Issues."

Those with a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer include:

• Smokers
• Individuals who consume alcohol heavily
• Those with a family history of pancreatic cancer
• People over the age of 65

In addition, an increased risk of pancreatic cancer is associated with certain pre-existing health conditions, such as:

• Diabetes
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Lynch syndrome
• Obesity
• Peutz-Jeghers syndrome

Learn more in our blog article, "Pancreatic Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment."

Pancreatic cancer can be treated using:

• Surgery to remove parts or all of the pancreas to get rid of the cancerous tumors depending on their location
• Chemotherapy to kill the cancer cells
• Radiation to eliminate cancerous cells
• Chemoradiation, a combination of chemotherapy and radiation, to destroy cancer cells before the cancer has spread from the pancreas
• Immunotherapy to augment your natural immune response against cancerous cells
• Targeted therapy with medication and antibodies to single out cancer cells

Learn more in our blog article, "Pancreatic Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment."

It is very difficult to detect the warning signs of pancreatic cancer. Through the early stages of the disease, there are hardly any symptoms. Even once the cancer spreads to other parts of the body, it will still be difficult to link the symptoms to the pancreas. Some of these symptoms are:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Upper abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Jaundice
• Back pain
• Bloating
• Loss of appetite
• Depression
• Itchiness
• Light-colored stool
• Dark-colored urine

Learn more in our blog article, "Pancreatic Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment."

The presence of periodontal disease is linked with an increased risk for a variety of systemic health issues. One such systemic issue is diabetes. People with diabetes are more prone to getting an infection, including gum disease, and the disease makes it more difficult to regulate blood sugar, which can make diabetes worse. This circular relationship can become very dangerous.
Another systemic health problem linked with periodontal disease is cardiovascular disease. Periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease have similar risk factors, including tobacco use and being overweight. Bacteria from the mouth travels through the bloodstream, creating inflammation and arterial plaque. One study also suggests that oral bacteria contributes to a thick layer of fats and cholesterol called atherosclerosis building up in the veins.

Learn more in our blog article, "Link Between Periodontal Disease & Other Health Issues."

Oral health is linked to whole-body health more closely than you might think. The health of your teeth and gums can have a big impact on your overall health. We call that the Mouth-Body Connection. Inflammation originating in your mouth due to tooth decay and periodontal disease can increase your risk of health conditions such as:

• Stroke
• Cognitive decline
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Pregnancy complications

Maintaining a proper dental hygiene regimen and making regular dental visits can help limit the impact that oral health issues have on your overall health.

Learn more in our blog article, "Link Between Periodontal Disease & Other Health Issues."

Most people believe that there is a disconnect between oral health and whole-body health because you go to a different type of doctor to treat each, but the reality is not so simple. Research shows that poor oral health is linked with serious health problems throughout the body, including:

• Cancer
• Osteoporosis
• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Alzheimer's disease
• Adverse pregnancy outcomes

Maintaining a healthy oral care routine, including regular visits to a dentist, can help reduce the likelihood and severity of these conditions.

Learn more in our blog article, "Link Between Periodontal Disease & Other Health Issues."

Yes, periodontal disease has been linked with an elevated risk of potentially deadly brain illnesses such as stroke as well as cognitive decline. Studies show that bacteria in the mouth can travel to the brain and become a factor in the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Studies show that people with oral health problems can have up to a 26% higher risk of dementia.

Learn more in our blog article, "Link Between Periodontal Disease & Other Health Issues."

Gum disease is associated with problems throughout your body, including your:

• Mouth and teeth
• Heart
• Brain
• Joints

Gum disease is also linked to an increased risk of complications during pregnancy, such as low birth weight and preterm birth.

Learn more in our blog article, "Link Between Periodontal Disease & Other Health Issues."

Yes, although gum disease starts in the mouth, it can affect your whole body. This is called the Mouth-Body Connection. The resources that your body uses to fight the inflammation in your mouth cannot be used to fight other conditions throughout your body, which can allow conditions that would have otherwise been mild to become worse. While there is no proof that gum infection causes other diseases to occur, it is linked and correlated to many illnesses.

Learn more in our blog article, "Link Between Periodontal Disease & Other Health Issues."

Keeping your brain healthy starts with good self-care, such as eating a healthy diet, drinking water, getting plenty of sleep, exercising regularly, and avoiding stress. But one aspect of brain health you might not realize is its link with oral health.
Your oral health has a surprising link to your brain health. Tooth loss is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline, and the inflammation that results from tooth decay can increase your risk of stroke. Therefore, to help keep your brain healthy, you should also make sure to look after your oral health by maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding sugary foods, and visiting your dentist twice a year for dental exams and cleanings.

Learn more in our blog article, "Why Poor Oral Health Can Affect Your Ability to Learn." 

Oral health is linked to brain health in many ways. Inflammation that results from tooth decay and gum disease can impact the way your brain functions and increase your risk of both brain disease and cognitive decline. This is part of the Mouth-Body Connection.®
A proper oral health regimen includes regular visits with your dentist, who will clean your teeth and treat any signs of infection or other oral health condition. Treating these problems early can help you avoid the worst ramifications to both your oral and brain health.

Learn more in our blog article, "Why Poor Oral Health Can Affect Your Ability to Learn." 

Taking care of your teeth at home will help you take care of your brain. Follow a basic oral hygiene routine to lower your risk of tooth decay, tooth loss, and gum disease so you can avoid the associated risks to your brain health.
Creating a healthy smile starts with good oral health habits, including:

• Brushing your teeth twice a day
• Flossing at least once a day
• Maintaining a low-sugar diet
• Avoiding tobacco products
• Drinking plenty of fluoridated water
• Visiting a dentist twice a year

Learn more in our blog article, "Why Poor Oral Health Can Affect Your Ability to Learn." 

Cavities and gum disease cause inflammation that travels through the same pathways in your body that go to the brain. This inflammation affects the brain by increasing the risk of stroke and other brain diseases. It also impacts the way the brain works, causing problems with the way you learn, solve problems, and recall memories.
In older adults, tooth loss is associated with an increased risk of dementia. One NYU study showed that adults with tooth loss are almost 1.5 times as likely to develop cognitive impairment and 1.3 times as likely to experience dementia.
Dental decay can also impact a child's ability to learn. Studies show that tooth loss early in life can cause speech delay, reduce the child's self-esteem, and reduce their ability to thrive. Tooth pain and decay can also impair speaking, eating, attentiveness, and learning. Kids with tooth decay are also three times more likely to miss school, putting them behind in their studies.

Learn more in our blog article, "Why Poor Oral Health Can Affect Your Ability to Learn." 

Regular visits to a dentist are necessary to maintain your oral health. Studies also suggest that your oral health has an impact on your overall health and vice versa. This is called the Mouth-Body Connection.®
People who do not see a dentist regularly have no one to examine their teeth, bone, or health of their jaw or the soft tissue in their mouth for decay, infection, or even cancer. Even minor issues can grow into major problems when left untreated, such as:

• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Chronic bad breath
• Sensitive teeth, making it painful to chew.
• Tooth decay that is too extensive to restore with a simple filling
• Infections causing a loss of gum tissue and bone
• Teeth falling out completely
• Oral cancer and other systemic conditions that grow more lethal when left undiagnosed

On top of these health issues, a lack of good oral hygiene can cause problems in your social and professional lives. Decaying teeth can become a barrier to success in your career and relationships, resulting in social isolation and depression.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Fear: Why You have it and How to Ease the Fear." 

Learn about cognitive-behavioral exercises such as muscle relaxation and intentional breathing. Another strategy is to focus your thoughts on the positive aspects of a dental visit rather than your fears. Think about how healthy your teeth will be after your appointment is over or how bright and clean your smile will be. If you have extreme dental fear, consider speaking to a psychologist or therapist for additional techniques.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Fear: Why You have it and How to Ease the Fear." 

Some phobias are easy to avoid, but you can't put off going to the dentist forever. That means you will need to confront your fear eventually. Here are a few handy tips to make your dental visit less stressful:

Talk to your dentist about your anxiety. They may know special strategies and techniques to help ease the nerves of anxious patients and avoid some of your triggers.
Positive stimulation can help distract you from your negative thoughts. Try bringing an entertaining book, a funny podcast, or uplifting music to your appointment to keep your mood high and your thoughts positive. Many dental offices have televisions set up in the waiting room or operatory to help occupy their patients' minds.
Ask the dentist to explain everything they do before they do it. If you know what to expect, there will be fewer surprises that could trigger a negative reaction. Some clinics will even enlist the patient to hand them certain tools so they can feel like a part of their own treatment.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Fear: Why You have it and How to Ease the Fear." 

Unease over going to the dentist is quite common. Almost half the population experiences some aversion to the dentist chair, with 36% of people experiencing dental anxiety and another 12% experiencing a more extreme dental fear.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Fear: Why You have it and How to Ease the Fear." 

One of the most common causes of dental anxiety is a bad dental experience in your past, usually as a child. A bad root canal, a painfully pulled tooth, or just a negative experience with dental staff can all follow you into adulthood and taint your impression of dental visits. Even hearing about the poor experiences of others can leave a strong impression.
Another related but equally common cause is the fear of potential pain or discomfort that may occur in the process of dental treatment. Dental drills, anesthetic injections, and the sight of blood can all serve as triggers. Lurid depictions of dental treatments in media can also reinforce the notion that going to the dentist is a potentially traumatic experience.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Fear: Why You have it and How to Ease the Fear." 

Yes, you can expect some sensitivity and discomfort while you have a temporary crown in place. The first reason is that you have just had a dental procedure, so your filed-down tooth, gums, and surrounding teeth may be more sensitive for a time afterward. The second reason is that a temporary crown is not custom-fitted to your mouth, so it will not fit completely flush with its opposite tooth when you chew or clench your teeth. Once you receive a permanent crown, any discomfort should fade away on its own.

Learn more in our blog article, "Temporary Crown vs. Permanent Crown."

A temporary crown is like a bandage for your tooth. Once the damaged tooth has been cleaned and treated, the temporary crown is added to create a layer of protection from infection. The temporary crown covers the damaged tooth and keeps harmful bacteria from getting in. However, unlike a cut on your skin, damaged teeth do not heal on their own, so the temporary crown will eventually need to be replaced by a permanent crown.

Learn more in our blog article, "Temporary Crown vs. Permanent Crown."

Yes, permanent crowns do feel more comfortable and natural than temporary crowns. A permanent crown is designed to fit perfectly with the teeth around it. That way, whenever you press your teeth together or chew, your teeth interlock and fit together comfortably.

Learn more in our blog article, "Temporary Crown vs. Permanent Crown."

There are several common treatments to remove oral cancer that may be used depending on its location and stage as well as other factors:

• Surgery to remove the tumor from the body
• Radiation therapy using beams of high energy to kill cancer cells
• Chemotherapy using chemicals to kill cancer cells
• Targeted drug therapy using medication that binds with cancer cells to hinder their growth
• Immunotherapy using the body's natural immune system to fight the cancer

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Cancer Treatment." 

Yes, oral cancer can spread quickly to other areas of the body. It is vital to detect the cancer as early as possible to limit the amount of time it has to spread and make treatment more difficult.

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Cancer Treatment." 

The most common treatment for oral cancer is surgery. A surgeon will cut out the tumor as well as a small amount of tissue around it to ensure that only healthy tissue remains. Larger tumors make require a portion of the jawbone or tongue to also be removed. If the cancer has spread to the neck, a neck dissection may be necessary, in which lymph nodes and related tissue are removed.
After surgery, mouth reconstruction surgery may be necessary to help you eat and speak. This procedure might involve grafts of bone, muscle and skin to be taken from other areas of your body. Dental implants may be used to replace any teeth that have been lost.

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Cancer Treatment." 

No matter how long ago your cancer went into remission, there is always a chance that cancer can return. The risk of remission is greatest within the first two years, which is why it's so important to make regular follow-up visits with your doctors so they can monitor for signs that the cancer has returned.
Oral cancer patients can also develop a second form of cancer, both during treatment for oral cancer and afterward.

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Cancer Treatment." 

The cost to treat oral cancer will vary depending on a wide range of factors, including:

• The type of cancer treatment
• The length of your treatment
• Where you're receiving treatment
• What kind of health insurance you have
• Whether you have supplemental insurance

The total cost will include the doctor appointments you make, the methods of cancer treatment you receive, the medication you take, and the travel costs through it all. You may incur additional costs depending on whether you need additional living expenses, at-home care, and long-term care. Legal costs and other financial issues can also add to the expense.
Find out more in our blog article "Oral Cancer Treatment."

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Cancer Treatment." 

Just like when using a manual toothbrush, you should use an electric toothbrush twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed, to maintain proper oral hygiene habits. Electric toothbrushes have many benefits, but only if you use them consistently!

Learn more in our blog article, "Electric Toothbrush vs Manual: Pros & Cons."

Studies suggest that electric toothbrushes are better at removing plaque from tooth enamel than manual toothbrushes. They are particularly effective at cleaning teeth around metal braces. Many models come with built-in timers, which can help ensure you spend a proper amount of time cleaning your teeth.
Electric toothbrushes are also easy to use. Just press the on button and start brushing. Because the brushing motion is not powered by your arm movements, electric toothbrushes can help individuals with limited mobility get the most out of brushing.

Learn more in our blog article, "Electric Toothbrush vs Manual: Pros & Cons."

Contrary to what you might think, electric toothbrushes are actually gentler on your gums than manual toothbrushes. Some individuals using manual toothbrushes brush harder than necessary, which can cause gums already affected by gingivitis to recede further.

Learn more in our blog article, "Electric Toothbrush vs Manual: Pros & Cons."

An electric toothbrush will not harm the enamel of your teeth when used properly to remove food and plaque during your daily brushing and oral hygiene routine.

Learn more in our blog article, "Electric Toothbrush vs Manual: Pros & Cons."

The primary disadvantage of electric toothbrushes is the cost. The initial cost of an electric toothbrush is considerably higher than a normal toothbrush and can serve as a barrier to some potential buyers. Further, new toothbrush head replacements must still be purchased as the old ones wear out. In addition to the cost, finding compatible heads for your model may be challenging.
Another potential drawback to electric toothbrushes is the sensation. The tickling or vibrating feeling of an electric toothbrush can be strange or unpleasant for some individuals. Many electric toothbrushes have multiple settings, however, so starting off with the lowest setting can be a helpful way to get used to the unique sensations.

Learn more in our blog article, "Electric Toothbrush vs Manual: Pros & Cons."

Make an appointment with a dentist if you suspect you have a cavity. Your dentist will inspect your teeth for evidence of decay and symptoms. After your dentist has determined that you have a cavity, the following step is to ascertain what type of cavity you have. There are three different kinds:

• Smooth surface cavity – This cavity type is located on a tooth's smooth surface
• Root cavity – This cavity-type develops on a tooth's surface above the roots
• Pit and fissure cavity – This cavity type is found on a tooth's chewing surface

Learn more in our blog article, "Are Cavities Genetic?"

Great genetics will only get you so far when it comes to cavity prevention. Any cavity-prevention advantage you got from your parents will be swiftly undone by bad dental habits and a lack of proper cleanliness.
Another practice that raises the risk of cavities is smoking. Because smoking reduces saliva production, this is the case. Saliva aids tooth cleaning by washing away food particles that bacteria can use to start the rotting process.
Another major cause of cavities is a diet heavy in sweets and carbohydrates. Other, less well-known causes of cavities exist.

• Snoring
• Constant Snacking
• Missed Dental Exams

Learn more in our blog article, "Are Cavities Genetic?"

• Ability to Taste
• Enamel
• Sugar Cravings
• Saliva
• Shape
• Immune Response to Bacteria

Learn more in our blog article, "Are Cavities Genetic?"

Tooth decay is a significant problem that can strike anyone at any time. However, those always struggling with decay difficulties may ponder why my teeth are so susceptible to cavities.
Cavity predisposition can be determined by heredity in the same way that hair and eye color are determined by genetics.

Learn more in our blog article, "Are Cavities Genetic?"

Positive lifestyle changes can improve your general health, including preventing atherosclerosis from progressing to the point of causing difficulties. Diet and exercise are vital in maintaining good health by keeping arteries and muscles strong and giving the nutrients our systems require to function properly.

Replace red meat with omega-3-rich meats like fish a couple of times a week to improve your health.
Saturated fats and fatty foods should be avoided.
Increase your intake of leafy green vegetables to boost your vitamin K levels, which can help maintain your arteries healthy and prevent damage. According to research, foods high in nitrate, such as kale, spinach, and collard greens, can lower blood pressure and enhance blood vessel health.
Increased consumption of antioxidant fruits like berries has been demonstrated to reduce dangerous low-density lipoproteins, sometimes known as bad cholesterol.
Niacin is a vitamin that can help persons with heart disease and has anti-clotting properties.
Black tea provides antioxidants that can help protect blood vessels and can help lower blood pressure.
Walnuts contain alpha-linolenic acid, an Omega fatty acid that can aid in the maintenance of a normal heartbeat.

Learn more in our blog article, "Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment."

The older you get, the more likely you will get atherosclerosis, which begins around the age of 40. Even if you are healthy, you have a 50% chance of having significant atherosclerosis during your lifetime. Atherosclerosis risk factors rise as you get older than 40.

Learn more in our blog article, "Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment."

The first line of treatment is lifestyle changes:

• Exercise will strengthen your arteries
• Diet changes that increase healthy vegetables and are low in fat, sugar, and sodium
• Quit smoking

By treating high blood pressure or high cholesterol, medications can slow down and possibly prevent plaque from creating a more significant blockage in the artery. Aspirin can be taken to avoid blood clotting.

If more intervention is needed, surgery is also an option to alleviate plaque-clogged arteries.


By-pass surgery can be done by taking a blood vessel from another part of your body to create a new pathway around a blockage.
Endarterectomy is the removal of plaque that builds up in your neck arteries.
A stent can be inserted in a blocked artery to keep it open, allowing the oxygen-filled red blood cells to flow through freely.
Thrombolytic or fibrinolytic therapies use drugs to dissolve blood clots in the arteries.

Learn more in our blog article, "Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment."

There are numerous methods for detecting indications of atherosclerosis. Your doctor will begin by performing a physical examination, including listening to your heart or arteries for an unusual whooshing sound known as a bruit, looking for evidence of a weak pulse, and asking you about signs of poor wound healing, which can suggest insufficient blood flow. Suppose all of your symptoms point to atherosclerosis. In that case, your doctor will run a battery of tests to pinpoint the source of the problem and provide a comprehensive diagnosis.

Learn more in our blog article, "Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment."

The development of atherosclerotic and other arteriosclerotic diseases is heavily influenced by age. The suppleness of a person's arteries decreases as they age, causing them to stiffen. When the endothelium on the interior of an artery is compromised, cholesterol from the bloodstream penetrates the arterial wall. It becomes trapped, forming plaque over time. The following conditions can cause atherosclerosis:

• Diabetes
  
• High blood pressure
• Stress
• High cholesterol
• Obesity
• Smoking

Learn more in our blog article, "Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment."

• Chest pain
• Pain in a specific extremity
• Shortness of breath
• Becoming lightheaded or dizzy
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Arrhythmia or an unusual heartbeat
• Numbness
• Aneurism
• Drooping facial muscles
• Severe headache

Learn more in our blog article, "Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment."

Although the terms atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis appear to be synonymous and are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not. Arteriosclerosis is a term that refers to a group of diseases in which arteries become stiff and thick. On the other hand, atherosclerosis is an umbrella term that refers to arteries that have become rigid and thick due to plaque buildup.

Learn more in our blog article, "Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment."

This disorder is divided into four stages, the first of which has no plaque and is referred to be a healthy blood vessel. The other three stages organized in order of severity, starting with the least, are:

• Fatty streak
• Fibrofatty plaque
• Complicated plaques

Learn more in our blog article, "Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment."

Atherosclerosis is a disorder that occurs when plaque builds up along the artery walls, narrowing and hardening the arteries. Plaque can form from calcium and fats in addition to cholesterol, and it can even break apart in the blood vessels, causing a blood clot.
Coronary atherosclerosis occurs when arteries near the heart become stiff and narrow, resulting in various heart problems. In contrast, cerebral atherosclerosis refers to the narrowing or blocking of arteries leading to the brain.

Learn more in our blog article, "Atherosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment."

Getting your dental health back on track is a fantastic method to safeguard your teeth and gums. It also helps to reduce oral inflammation. This approach includes a renewed commitment to continuous and comprehensive home care and frequent dental visits. 

Controlling your diabetes is aided by reversing this inflammatory disorder and vice versa. Taking care of your teeth and gums might also help you manage some diabetic mouth symptoms. While periodontitis can only be treated at a dental office, gingivitis can be treated at home. 

Daily brushing and flossing reduce the build-up of biofilm, plaque, and bacteria on the teeth. Brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes with fluoride toothpaste is recommended.

Learn more in our blog article, "Expect More From Your Spit: The Slobbery Link Between Your Saliva and Diabetes." 

Gum disease and diabetes are bidirectional, which means they go in both directions. Your body is a system, which means that whatever affects one part of it will influence the rest. So, while research has yet to demonstrate a causative link, gum disease can affect your type 2 diabetes.
The mouth is the body's doorway. Your oral health is inextricably linked to your overall health, especially if you have diabetes. If you have plaque and bacteria in your mouth due to gum disease, it will spread throughout your body. When the infection from your gum disease spreads and settles someplace else, it might lead to the development of other chronic illnesses, such as diabetes.

Learn more in our blog article, "Expect More From Your Spit: The Slobbery Link Between Your Saliva and Diabetes." 

Loss of teeth and diabetes have a relationship, albeit an indirect one. The bone and gums are degraded by the persistent inflammation caused by diabetes gums, leading to gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss. Diabetes, in the context of the two disorders, might make it difficult for gum tissue to recover from inflammation and heal itself. Furthermore, leaving damaged teeth in your mouth might worsen diabetic issues and bring hazardous bacteria into your circulation.

Learn more in our blog article, "Expect More From Your Spit: The Slobbery Link Between Your Saliva and Diabetes." 

Inflammation and diabetes are closely linked, with type 2 diabetes causing internal inflammation. When too little insulin is created, or current insulin is not adequately utilized, blood sugar levels can rise. A rise in blood sugar leads to increased insulin resistance, resulting in a deadly sugar-inflammation loop.
Being overweight and inactive are two primary factors for diabetes. Excess fat cells create substances that cause inflammation in the body. This, in combination with sugar inflammation, causes a rise in insulin production, which feeds into the vicious cycle of inflammation, insulin production, and insulin resistance.

Learn more in our blog article, "Expect More From Your Spit: The Slobbery Link Between Your Saliva and Diabetes." 

Periodontitis causes inflammation of the gums. Gum disease is mainly caused by bacteria found in dental plaque, which causes the immune system to react with an inflammatory response in reaction to germs and infection. Gum inflammation, which occurs early in the course of periodontal disease, can start the degradation of the soft tissue of the gums, which can later lead to tooth loss. However, gum disease inflammation isn't limited to the mouth. The link between gum disease and chronic inflammation can have far-reaching consequences that may surprise you.

Learn more in our blog article, "What is Chronic Inflammation? How to Treat it? Why is it Such a Big Deal?" 

Inflammation isn't always constant; it might come and go. Acute inflammation is usually only there for as long as the damage or wound is present. The inflammation is required to allow the tissue to recover or remove the threat from the body. Although it would seem that chronic inflammation would remain constant throughout time, this is not always the case. Rheumatoid arthritis is a good illustration of this; inflammatory cells target joint tissue, causing inflammation on and off, which leads to discomfort and serious joint destruction.

Learn more in our blog article, "What is Chronic Inflammation? How to Treat it? Why is it Such a Big Deal?" 

• Joint Pain
• Mouth Sores
• Skin Rash
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Chest Pain
• Abdominal Pain

Learn more in our blog article, "What is Chronic Inflammation? How to Treat it? Why is it Such a Big Deal?" 

• Swelling
• Heat
• Redness
• Loss of Function
• Pain

Learn more in our blog article, "What is Chronic Inflammation? How to Treat it? Why is it Such a Big Deal?" 

It's critical to understand not just what inflammation is but also how to spot the symptoms and what causes it in the first place, especially when it comes to chronic inflammation. You can tell if you have chronic or acute inflammation by looking at the inflammation's symptoms, length, and cause. If you have chronic inflammation, understanding the problem will allow you to take the necessary actions to treat it and return your body to its best functional condition.

Learn more in our blog article, "What is Chronic Inflammation? How to Treat it? Why is it Such a Big Deal?" 

Acute inflammation is site-based and situational, usually occurring due to an injury, bacteria, or toxin that has posed a threat. Chronic inflammation occurs when inflammatory cells attack a portion of the body when there is no real danger, resulting in a persistent inflammatory response.
Chronic inflammation could occur for various reasons, including autoimmune disorders, long-term exposure to chemicals, autoinflammatory diseases, and acute inflammation if the original inflammatory trigger were never fully resolved. Diet and alcohol consumption, in particular, can have a major impact on the level of inflammation in the body.

Learn more in our blog article, "What is Chronic Inflammation? How to Treat it? Why is it Such a Big Deal?" 

Diabetic problems can be avoided with early detection, thanks to the ease with which salivary testing can be done and the ability of dentists and doctors to undertake salivary diagnostic tests. If you have diabetes, keeping a close eye on your blood sugar levels and your blood pressure and cholesterol can help you avoid developing kidney, eye, and nerve disorders, which can be expensive to treat and have a significant impact on your quality of life.

Learn more in our blog article, "Expect More From Your Spit: The Slobbery Link Between Your Saliva and Diabetes." 

As research becomes more conclusive and when procedures and standards are established to make testing results more reliable, it is possible in the future that your dentist will be able to test and even diagnose diabetes using saliva glucose levels and other identified biomarkers.

Learn more in our blog article, "The Link Between Diabetes and Your Gums."

A visual inspection of the tongue has also been shown to aid in diagnosing diabetes. Diabetic tongue refers to the comparable physical properties of the tongue's appearance in diabetic patients, such as color, shape, fur color and thickness, and saliva flow. A positive diagnosis can also be attributed to salivary gland dysfunction.

Learn more in our blog article, "Expect More From Your Spit: The Slobbery Link Between Your Saliva and Diabetes." 

Diabetes can affect the amount of saliva produced. Many diabetic patients complain of dry mouth, which is a side effect of the disease. While the salivary glands in diabetic patients are working overtime, the volume of saliva produced in the mouth is significantly less than in similarly aged, healthy control patients. According to the National Institutes of Health, diabetic saliva has greater calcium levels and dramatically lower magnesium and zinc levels, which contributes to diabetes and affects healing time and mouth infections.

Learn more in our blog article, "Expect More From Your Spit: The Slobbery Link Between Your Saliva and Diabetes." 

• Oral cancers
• Gum disease
• Viral hepatitis
• Breast cancer
• Heart disease
• HIV
• Diabetes

Learn more in our blog article, "Expect More From Your Spit: The Slobbery Link Between Your Saliva and Diabetes." 

Living with an illness like diabetes can completely change your life. If symptoms are managed, testing and regular checks, which are essential for keeping the condition under control, must continue regardless of how you feel.
Diseases in their early stages can be detected, and efforts can be made to reverse the disease's trajectory so that patients can remain healthy before the disease takes hold and causes irreversible harm, thanks to the high potential of salivary diagnostics used to screen for many ailments. Gum disease is a good illustration of this. When a dentist uses a saliva test to diagnose gum disease, the exact bacteria strain can be determined, allowing the proper therapy to be administered.

Learn more in our blog article, "Expect More From Your Spit: The Slobbery Link Between Your Saliva and Diabetes." 

Glucose is a type of sugar that originates from the meals you eat and is used to power all of your body's processes. Glucose can be present in the blood, where these energy-source carbohydrates are transported, but it can also be detected in saliva.
The sugar present in the saliva is known as salivary glucose. Unlike blood glucose, which requires a small finger prick to take blood to evaluate sugar levels, it can be easily examined with a swab of the tongue. According to recent studies, salivary glucose levels in diabetic patients are substantially greater than in non-diabetic people, and this is also true of blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. The graph above depicts the relationship between salivary and blood glucose levels.

Learn more in our blog article, "Expect More From Your Spit: The Slobbery Link Between Your Saliva and Diabetes." 

Saliva is essential for oral health because it contains antibodies that target and kill bacteria. Patients may be diagnosed with diseases of the salivary glands or even malignancy. On the other hand, low saliva levels have been linked to disorders like diabetes, which can lead to subsequent difficulties like gum disease.

Learn more in our blog article, "Expect More From Your Spit: The Slobbery Link Between Your Saliva and Diabetes." 

Saliva, often known as spit, is a unique liquid found in your mouth. Saliva is produced in the mouth cavity by three big pairs of saliva glands and hundreds of smaller glands. It performs various functions, including supplying critical minerals to your teeth, wiping away food waste, and aiding in the digestion of food for better taste and swallowing.

Learn more in our blog article, "Expect More From Your Spit: The Slobbery Link Between Your Saliva and Diabetes." 

Oral DNA testing uses saliva to identify diseases in the mouth and body. It uses specific information contained in your saliva to lighten what is going on in your body.
Although diabetes is not spread through saliva, the fluid in the mouth can help detect and monitor diabetes so that the disease's dangerous consequences do not fully develop. Patients are more likely to have tests done if saliva is used instead of blood, allowing disease or the possibility for disease to be detected early and possibly prevented entirely.

Learn more in our blog article, "Expect More From Your Spit: The Slobbery Link Between Your Saliva and Diabetes." 

According to the information given by the National Library of Medicine, brushing your teeth might potentially alter glucose levels in saliva, fasting blood sugar, and insulin as a whole. People who cleaned their teeth several times a day, for example, had lower amounts of glucose in their saliva than those who only brushed once or not at all.

Learn more in our blog article, "More Brushing, Less Diabetes." 

Bacteria and plaque build up in the mouth while we eat, potentially leading to diseases of the teeth and gums and an increased risk of tooth loss. Brushing removes plaque and germs that, if left unchecked, will eat away at the enamel. Cavities and tartar build-up are more likely as the enamel begins to deteriorate. Tartar in the mouth can cause gum disease and inflammation, extending to other regions of the body.
Brushing teeth properly numerous times a day can help prevent plaque and bacteria accumulation from causing harm. Keeping the teeth free of these harmful chemicals reduces the chances of tartar forming and causing discomfort.

Learn more in our blog article, "More Brushing, Less Diabetes." 

Blood sugar and insulin balance impact many various regions of the body, including oral health. Diabetes has long been thought to harm oral health. Still, a recent study suggests that there may be a link between good dental hygiene habits and a reduced or increased risk of diabetes.

Learn more in our blog article, "More Brushing, Less Diabetes." 

The link between oral health and diabetes is high blood sugar. Diabetes impairs the body's ability to fight infection and causes inflammation, which is detrimental to oral health. When the immune system's ability to combat infection is compromised, bacteria in the mouth are more likely to grow into serious disorders like gingivitis and periodontitis if left uncontrolled.
Many people with diabetes suffer from other problems, such as dry mouth, which results in less protective saliva. Less saliva can cause mouth ulcers and tooth decay, leading to infection in other body parts as germs gain access to essential systems such as the circulatory and respiratory systems.

Learn more in our blog article, "More Brushing, Less Diabetes." 

If diabetes isn't managed, it can have various negative effects on your oral health.
You can, for example, acquire dry mouth. This is a condition caused by a decrease in saliva production. Because saliva protects teeth by eliminating food particles that might contribute to plaque and bacteria accumulation, your teeth will be at a higher risk of cavities.
Gingivitis is a condition in which your gums expand and frequently bleed due to diabetes. The first stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis. If left untreated, periodontal disease can kill your gums, the tissues that keep your teeth in place, and even your jawbones.

Learn more in our blog article, "More Brushing, Less Diabetes." 

The A1C test is a blood test that determines your average blood glucose level over the previous two to three months. Diabetes-related problems of the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, eyes, and feet can be caused by high A1C levels. Your doctor should advise you how often you should have your A1C tested each year. The test is typically done twice a year for those who meet their diabetes treatment goals. A1C levels of less than 7% are considered desirable.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tips on Managing Your Diabetes with Oral Health and More." 

Managing your blood glucose is essential for feeling better and living with diabetes successfully. There are numerous advantages to keeping your blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible. To begin with, you'll have greater energy. You'll also feel less weary, and your thirst will diminish. In addition, you'll urinate less, heal faster, and have fewer skin and bladder infections.
Successful glucose monitoring also lowers the risk of some significant diabetes-related health complications. The following are some of the health risks:

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Blindness or other sight issues
• Nerve damage
• Kidney problems
• Teeth and gum problems

Learn more in our blog article, "Tips on Managing Your Diabetes with Oral Health and More." 

You can control the course of your diabetes with a variety of oral health self-care techniques that you can do at home, such as:

Take your insulin; it's the quickest approach to getting your blood sugar levels down.
If you wear dentures, you should clean them every day.
Tobacco usage (smoking, chewing, etc.) should be avoided.
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
After that, floss to get those hard-to-reach spots that a toothbrush can't reach.

You can control your diabetes without taking medication if you practice the procedures you learn at home.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tips on Managing Your Diabetes with Oral Health and More." 

Type 1 diabetes is caused by the body's inability to manufacture insulin. Insulin is required to extract glucose from the meals you eat. The glucose is converted into energy for the body to use. To live, a person with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily.
Type 2 diabetes is also the most frequent of the three forms. Type 2 diabetes is caused by the body's inability to manufacture or utilize insulin properly. To control their diabetes, people with Type 2 diabetes must take tablets or insulin.
Gestational diabetes is a kind of diabetes that develops in certain women during pregnancy. After the mother has delivered, it usually fades away on its own. If the mother has diabetes while pregnant, both the mother and the kid are more likely to have diabetes later.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tips on Managing Your Diabetes with Oral Health and More." 

• Swollen, tender gums
• Bright red, dusky red, or purplish gums
• More intense bleeding of gums, spitting out blood after brushing and flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Pus discharge between your teeth and gums
• Loose teeth or tooth loss
• Pain while chewing
• Development of new spaces in teeth
• The appearance that your teeth look longer as gums pull away from teeth
• Changes to your bite, meaning the way the teeth come together

Learn more in our blog article, "Periodontal (Gum) Disease Stages: When to See a Dentist."

The infection is becoming more severe at this stage in gum disease. Some patients report that eating causes them discomfort and that their teeth seem loose in their mouth. Patients also suffer ulcers within their mouths and foul breath, and sensitivity to their teeth. Pyorrhea, or the release of pus from the gums, can also occur. Patients will lose their teeth if the infection is not treated, and the illness will spread to the jawbone.

Learn more in our blog article, "Periodontal (Gum) Disease Stages: When to See a Dentist."

• Same as early-stage periodontitis, only more severe, i.e., more bleeding and more gum recession
• Teeth feeling loose
• Beginning of supporting bone loss
• The inflammatory response in the body to the infection

Learn more in our blog article, "Periodontal (Gum) Disease Stages: When to See a Dentist."

Moderate periodontitis exacerbates the preceding signs and symptoms. More damage to the gum tissue and bones occurs when the infection develops and expands. Additionally, symptoms may worsen, making it difficult to ignore while chewing. You may also notice that your teeth "feel loose," indicating that the condition is progressing and that supporting bone tissue is lost. You could start to see inflammatory responses in other places of your body.

Learn more in our blog article, "Periodontal (Gum) Disease Stages: When to See a Dentist."

• Red, inflamed gum tissue
• Swollen gums
• Gum recession with pockets of infection where the tooth and gum come together
• Bleeding when brushing and flossing
• Bad Breath

Learn more in our blog article, "Periodontal (Gum) Disease Stages: When to See a Dentist."

Tartar buildups on the tooth's surface and below the gum line are signs of early-stage periodontitis. When an infection spreads behind the gums, the tissue can detach from the teeth, generating infection pockets that cause swelling and bleeding. This illness, if left untreated, can cause bone deterioration and tooth loss. Additionally, bacteria below the gum line can enter the bloodstream and travel to other body parts, contributing to disease progression in chronic inflammatory conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, and other chronic inflammatory diseases.

Learn more in our blog article, "Periodontal (Gum) Disease Stages: When to See a Dentist."

Gum disease in its early stages is referred to as gingivitis. Plaque accumulation, a mixture of germs and bacteria that combines into a sticky material known as biofilm, causes it to form. This biofilm hardens into calculus and tartar, which cling to your gum tissue over time. Tartar is difficult to remove from your teeth. Your Smile Generation dental hygienist is generally the one to do it. Tartar accumulation irritates the gums and initiates the early stages of infection as it develops and grows. Tooth decay can also be facilitated by irritated gum tissue.4. What are the most common symptoms of gingivitis?

• Red gums
• Swollen gums
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Gum tissue loss, called gum recession
• Bad breath

Learn more in our blog article, "Periodontal (Gum) Disease Stages: When to See a Dentist."

Per the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), the dental specialty that focuses on gum health, there are a few specific risk factors for developing gum disease, which include:

Age: Older people are more likely to have gum disease than young people, especially those over 65.

Smoking: Some studies show that tobacco use is one of the most significant risk factors for developing gum disease.

Genetics: Some people are more prone to gum disease based on their heredity.

Stress: Stress makes it harder to fight off infections like the one associated with gum disease.

Medication: Some side effects from prescriptions you take can make your oral environment more susceptible to gum disease.

Grinding Teeth: Patients who clench or grind their teeth can accelerate the development of gum disease resulting from the additional forces exerted on the teeth and supporting bone.

Systemic Illness: Other inflammatory conditions can contribute to the progression of gum disease.

Obesity: Extra weight indicates a nutrient-poor diet, which inhibits the body's ability to fight off infection, placing you at a higher risk for severe gum disease.

Learn more in our blog article, "Periodontal (Gum) Disease Stages: When to See a Dentist."

Gum disease is an infection. The infection attacks the tissues and bones that support your teeth and is the leading cause of tooth loss. How quickly the periodontal disease progresses depends on several factors, but once it develops, it accelerates progression when left untreated.

Learn more in our blog article, "Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Medication, Types, Causes, & Prevention." 

Sleep apnea affects people of all ages and gender. However, some people have more sleep apnea risk factors than others.

Age: While sleep apnea may affect anybody, from babies to the elderly, the chance of developing it increases with age. One reason might be that as we get older, the way our brain controls breathing while sleeping changes. Another factor is how fatty tissue in the neck and tongue grows as we become older.

Lifestyle Choices: Unhealthy habits such as smoking, drinking, eating a bad diet, and not exercising can all contribute to the development of sleep apnea.

Family History: If someone in your family has sleep apnea, you may acquire it as well. However, healthy lifestyle choices can reduce your chance. Your risk factors are also influenced by the form of your face and skull (how your brain controls breathing during sleep, which is determined by genetics). Furthermore, research reveals that your genes influence your chances of developing inflammation or being obese.

Learn more in our blog article, "Sleep Apnea: Causes, Types & Treatments." 

Sleep apnea can be treated in a variety of ways. Mild forms of sleep apnea, for example, may not necessitate therapy. Instead, your doctor may advise you to make lifestyle changes such as decreasing weight or quitting smoking. It might be as easy as addressing nasal allergies for certain folks. Reduced use of sleeping pills or alcohol, the use of a nasal breathing strip to keep nasal passages open, or the purchase of a pillow that encourages and supports side sleeping over back sleeping are all possibilities.
Assume your obstructive sleep apnea is moderate to severe. In such a situation, you may be able to benefit from a medical device that helps open the airway or an oral appliance that enables you to breathe better while you sleep.
The CPAP machine is common medical equipment used to treat sleep apnea. When you sleep with a CPAP machine, you must wear a mask. The mask then uses air pressure to keep the upper airway open, allowing for better breathing and snoring prevention.
Some individuals, however, dislike using CPAP. The machine's air pressure might rouse people up at any point during the night. An auto-CPAP, which adjusts the air pressure as needed throughout the night, or a BPAP (bi-level positive airway pressure), which changes the air pressure depending on whether you are inhaling or exhaling, may be used in some cases. Another alternative is to use an oral device to help open the airway. While not as dependable as a CPAP, the oral appliance is simpler to use.

Learn more in our blog article, "Sleep Apnea: Causes, Types & Treatments." 

Sleep apnea is diagnosed by a medical professional. Your doctor will want to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms before making a sleep apnea diagnosis. They'll ask for your medical history, a list of your medications, and travel history (altitudes above 6,000 feet can affect oxygen levels in the bloodstream and disrupt sleep after you return). They also examine for risk factors and see whether any current diseases, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or irregular heartbeats, are linked to undiagnosed sleep apnea.
After that, you'll have a physical exam to check for physical issues that might put you at risk. The doctor looks for narrow upper airways, swollen tonsils, or large neck circumferences in that examination. Additionally, the doctor will look at your tongue position, jaw size, and structure. They'll also listen to your lungs and heart and test your neurological systems for any irregularities associated with sleep apnea.
The doctor may then request blood tests to evaluate hormone levels to see whether an endocrine disease is causing you to have trouble sleeping. A pelvic ultrasound may be performed on women to detect if cysts are present, indicating polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
The next step might be a sleep study. The research, known as a polysomnogram, will be referred to you by your doctor (PSG). The PSG keeps track of several things. It identifies breathing activity (or inactivity) indicative of sleep apnea, monitors the movement in the muscles that control breathing, determines your blood oxygen levels, and watches your heart and brain activity while you are asleep. The doctor can then diagnose you with mild, moderate, or severe sleep apnea based on the research findings.

Learn more in our blog article, "Sleep Apnea: Causes, Types & Treatments." 

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea
• Central Sleep Apnea
• Complex Sleep Apnea

Learn more in our blog article, "Sleep Apnea: Causes, Types & Treatments." 

Some of the factors are biological in nature. An obstruction in the airway causes one kind of sleep apnea. When the central nervous system ceases communicating with the brain about breathing, another type of sleep apnea develops.
Other factors also play a role. Sleep apnea can be caused by illnesses that damage the central nervous system, such as strokes, ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease. Sleep apnea can occur in people with severe heart disease or kidney failure. Genetic disorders that cause smaller facial bones or change the location of the tongue are incredibly worrying. Sleep apnea has also been linked to hormone imbalances. Babies born before 37 weeks have a higher chance of developing a sleep issue.

Learn more in our blog article, "Sleep Apnea: Causes, Types & Treatments." 

• Loud snoring
• Periods where breathing stops (usually noticed by another person)
• Gasping for breath during sleep
• Dry mouth
• Headaches the following morning
• Difficulty staying asleep during the night (insomnia)
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Problem with the attention span
• Irritability

Sleep apnea sufferers may also experience a variety of additional symptoms. The first symptom is dizziness, which is caused by low oxygen levels. Night sweats, frequent nightly urination, and sexual dysfunction are all possible side effects for some people.

Learn more in our blog article, "Sleep Apnea: Causes, Types & Treatments." 

Sleep apnea is defined by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke as a condition in which a person's breathing is interrupted repeatedly for ten seconds or more while sleeping. Sleep apnea, if left untreated, can lead to a variety of significant health problems, including:

• Hypertension (High blood pressure)
• Stroke
• Heart arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
• Cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart muscle)
• Heart failure
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Heart Attacks

Learn more in our blog article, "Sleep Apnea: Causes, Types & Treatments." 

Braces provide a huge advantage for difficult repairs like a large overbite or underbite because they are linked to each tooth. Although Invisalign may not be appropriate in every situation, braces may undeniably straighten badly misaligned teeth and give you a gorgeous smile.

Learn more in our blog article, "Invisalign vs. Braces."

While Invisalign has numerous advantages, it also has certain drawbacks that should be considered before deciding to use it.
Inconvenience
In today's hectic world, remembering to take out your Invisalign and properly store and maintain the aligners is another thing to add to your already long to-do list.
Potential Delays in Length of Treatment
The entire duration of treatment time can be greatly extended if the aligners are not used as directed regularly. Because Invisalign requires a high level of personal responsibility, it may not be the greatest solution for younger children or teenagers.

Learn more in our blog article, "Invisalign vs. Braces." 

Invisalign is, on average, speedier than braces. Invisible braces are often worn for 12 to 18 months, whereas regular braces are typically worn for one to three years. However it's crucial to remember that Invisalign is usually best suited for people who don't require considerable correction. As a result, the alignment process is less demanding than it would be for someone who needs extensive correction with traditional metal braces.

It's also worth noting that the pace of correction is influenced by the patient's willingness to wear the Invisalign aligners for the recommended length of time each day. If they're not worn for the recommended amount of time each day, the entire procedure can be severely slowed.

Learn more in our blog article, "Invisalign vs. Braces." 

Is Invisalign better than braces? There are many advantages of Invisalign that range from aesthetic appeal to comfort of use:

• Aesthetic Appeal
• No Dietary Restrictions
• No Irritation to Other Parts of the Mouth
• Ease of Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene

Learn more in our blog article, "Invisalign vs. Braces." 

• Temporary
• Not made for daily use
• Can cause plaque build-up or irritate gums when worn long term
• Provide no protection for broken, cracked, or chipped teeth

Learn more in our blog article, "Types of Veneers and the Cost." 

• Instant smile transformation
• Inexpensive
• You can eat with them on

Learn more in our blog article, "Types of Veneers and the Cost." 

• More prone to cracking and chipping
• Expensive: $800-$2000 per tooth
• Less chance of insurance coverage

Learn more in our blog article, "Types of Veneers and the Cost." 

• Lasting over 20 years
• Natural-looking
• Reversible
• Can be less expensive than porcelain veneers

Learn more in our blog article, "Types of Veneers and the Cost." 

• Do not last as long as porcelain veneers
• Prone to staining
• Long time in the chair
• Results vary and depend heavily on the skills of the cosmetic dentist

Learn more in our blog article, "Types of Veneers and the Cost." 

• Durable for a temporary treatment
• Less invasive procedure. Ask your dentist how much enamel will be removed. Some do not take off any but rather add acid to rough up the enamel
• An acceptable appearance
• Does not affect the gum tissue in most cases
• Easily repaired if chipped or broken
• Usually completed in only one appointment
• Last between five to seven years
• Less expensive than porcelain veneers, $250 to $1500 per tooth

Learn more in our blog article, "Types of Veneers and the Cost." 

• Expensive, $500 to $2500 per tooth
• The procedure takes up to three visits
• Irreversible and invasive procedure

Learn more in our blog article, "Types of Veneers and the Cost." 

• Custom made for your mouth
• Stain-resistant
• Very strong and durable
• Smooth texture
• Very natural appearance
• Long-lasting, typically eight to 20 years

Learn more in our blog article, "Types of Veneers and the Cost." 

Unfortunately, teeth straightening does not happen overnight. However, it does not imply that you must wear braces for years to see improvements in many circumstances.

In short, the answer is contingent on the treatment you require to achieve your desired results. According to estimates, minor orthodontic cases can be completed in as little as 12 months, while more complex cases can take up to three years.

Learn more in our blog article, "Adult Braces: Pros & Cons." 

The short answer is no; braces do not make you feel any more uncomfortable as an adult. On the other hand, braces are uncomfortable when you initially acquire them or when they need to be adjusted.

Learn more in our blog article, "Adult Braces: Pros & Cons." 

Modern orthodontic treatment has many advantages, including improving one's appearance by having a straighter smile. But, that's not the only reason for getting adult braces.
Fixing issues with your occlusion, or the way your teeth come together in a bite, for example, can help you avoid oral health concerns in the long run. Also, because it's more challenging to keep misaligned teeth clean, deterioration is more likely when they're not straight. When teeth deteriorate, it can also lead to gum disease, leading to tooth and bone loss if left untreated.

Learn more in our blog article, "Adult Braces: Pros & Cons." 

Teeth whitening with a heat-generated laser is referred to as laser teeth whitening. Your dentist bleaches each tooth. The laser generates heat, which boosts the bleach's efficacy. The procedure is quick and efficient.
Your dentist will first assess the color of your teeth before taking photographs of your existing teeth. Next, a cheek retractor is introduced into the mouth, and a protective SPF cream is applied to your lips. After that, cotton rollers are inserted under the lips to protect your gums and mouth from the bleaching gel.

Learn more in our blog article, "Stained Teeth & Types of Tooth Discoloration." 

An extrinsic tooth stain is a stain that appears on the surface of a tooth. Tobacco usage or regular consumption of beverages such as coffee, tea, wine, or soda are the most common causes. A colored residue from tobacco, meals, or drinks collects in the protein layer that covers tooth enamel, causing the stain.

Fortunately, extrinsic tooth stains do not penetrate the tooth enamel and can be removed with regular dental cleanings, whitening toothpaste, and at-home teeth whitening solutions.

Learn more in our blog article, "Stained Teeth & Types of Tooth Discoloration." 

Veneers are mostly cosmetic, being applied directly to the teeth to improve the color of your smile or conceal chips and cracks. On the other hand, a crown can be cosmetic but is essentially restorative. If you have a tooth that is cracked, chipped, or broken, a crown may be the best option, but it may be the only way to restore its functionality. Examine the benefits and drawbacks of crowns vs. veneers to ensure you have all the facts before embarking on your journey to a brand-new smile.

Learn more in our blog article, "Pros and Cons of Veneers vs. Alternatives." 

Veneers are like shells that are applied as a covering to a tooth after some enamel has been removed. Both are cosmetic procedures that hide stains, chips, and other small flaws in your smile. Bonding is a resin placed directly on the tooth after the dentist has etched the enamel. While bonding does not last as long as veneers, it is still a viable option in many situations.

Learn more in our blog article, "Pros and Cons of Veneers vs. Alternatives." 

When it comes to Lumineers vs. veneers, knowing the benefits and drawbacks might help you decide which option is ideal for you. Veneers and Lumineers are both "shells" that are placed over a tooth's surface. Lumineers are about half the thickness of veneers, so they're less intrusive because they don't require the dentist to remove any enamel. Veneers require more time and effort since the tooth must be shaved down to accommodate the thickness of the material that will be applied to the surface

Learn more in our blog article, "Pros and Cons of Veneers vs. Alternatives." 

There are plenty of good alternatives to veneers. With so many options available, you're sure to find the best one for you, whether that's crowns, veneers, bonding, Lumineers, or any number of different combinations. Examine your own teeth: are any of them fractured, chipped, or cracked? Or do you want a merely cosmetic effect that will give you a lovely smile?
Knowing the fundamental cause of the problem and your personal "why" will aid you in determining the best remedy.

Learn more in our blog article, "Pros and Cons of Veneers vs. Alternatives." 

It's not always easy to self-diagnose a broken tooth because some cracks aren't visible to the human eye. In some cases, your dentist may not be able to diagnose it even with an x-ray.
So you'll have to rely on your senses, which means you'll have to feel if it's cracked.

There are two primary indicators that you have a cracked tooth. You'll first notice it when biting and chewing food. When eating or drinking hot or cold foods and liquids, you may experience dental sensitivity.

Learn more in our blog article, "Handling a Dental Emergency: Chipped Tooth." 

Flush the inside of your mouth with warm water. To reduce swelling, place a cold pack on the outside of your mouth.
Anti-inflammatory medicines and over-the-counter pain relievers can also help. Make sure you take the medication as directed. Clove oil is another alternative for pain alleviation. It contains the chemical eugenol, a numbing agent that has anti-inflammatory properties. Also, until you can get dental treatment, avoid biting down on the tooth. Biting down on the tooth will only make the situation worse.

Learn more in our blog article, "Handling a Dental Emergency: Chipped Tooth." 

Losing an adult tooth, no matter how it happens, is a dental emergency. A tooth can be lost in a variety of ways. Two of the most prevalent occurrences are accidents and injuries.
Begin by retrieving the tooth, which should be in good condition. Then contact a dentist right away. Gently rinse the tooth's root with water. Don't scrub the tooth, and don't remove any attached tissue.

Gently try to re-establish the tooth's natural position in its socket. But don't overdo it. Place the tooth in a cup of saltwater or milk if you can't get it back in. If a tooth is knocked out and replaced within an hour, it has the best chance of survival.

Learn more in our blog article, "Handling a Dental Emergency: Chipped Tooth." 

This is a significant problem that will require dental treatment. So, if you have a broken tooth, you should know what to do.

If you can find the fractured piece (or fragments) of the tooth, save them. Then, with warm water, rinse your mouth and the tooth fragments. If there is continuous bleeding, cover the area with gauze. Keep the gauze in place for at least 10 minutes or until the bleeding has stopped. Until you can visit a dentist, you can reduce swelling and pain by icing the region and taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.

Learn more in our blog article, "Handling a Dental Emergency: Chipped Tooth." 

There are several types of dental emergencies, and they always seem to happen on holidays, weekends, or after hours. Below are the most common:

• Broken Tooth
• Toothache
• Infected Tooth
• Loose Tooth
• Lost Filling
• Faulty Dental Crown

Learn more in our blog article, "Handling a Dental Emergency: Chipped Tooth." 

Two weeks after tooth extraction, the location should be mostly healed, with tissue closing up instead of an open socket. It's crucial not to brush this delicate, fragile tissue. Food should not be chewed near the healing socket since it may damage the soft, fresh tissue and induce infection.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Extraction Healing: Stages & Recovery."

The toughest part is over once you've made it through the first week after tooth extraction. Depending on the type of stitch you received, it will either be removed or disintegrate on its own.
Please contact your dentist if you are experiencing any discomfort or bleeding at this time so that they can assess your case. Except for a bit of sensitivity from the younger tissue growing around the extraction site, pain, bleeding, and swelling should have stopped. Continue to rinse (not brush) the region to keep the now-secured blood clot in place and avoid brittle, crumbly foods that could sneak into the partially open socket.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Extraction Healing: Stages & Recovery."

After three days, the tooth extraction site should feel better and recover nicely. Swelling should be minor, and the bleeding should have stopped.

The blood clot that grew in the socket should be more stable, but it can still come loose if you're not careful. At this point, tooth extraction recovery is well advanced, but some tenderness around the extraction site is usual. Please notify your dentist if you develop any bleeding or swelling.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Extraction Healing: Stages & Recovery."

A blood clot will form in the hole where the tooth has erupted when the tooth is extracted. This is a good thing, and it will protect the nerves and bones exposed in the socket. If the clot comes out, the result is painful and prolongs the healing time of the extraction.

A dry socket occurs when a blood clot falls out, creating pain in the inflamed socket that can also travel down a nerve in your jaw. A dry socket is the most common complication of tooth extraction. It can become very painful, and over-the-counter pain relievers may not be enough to relieve the pain. If you experience severe pain after a tooth extraction, you may have a dry socket and should call your dentist.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Extraction Healing: Stages & Recovery."

A 3D dental printer can now create veneers. A 3D dental printer employs new resins and a ceramic-filled hybrid material to make veneers.
3D printed veneers are substantially faster than porcelain or composite resin veneers. There's no need to take imprints of your teeth and then ship them off to a lab to be turned into models.
A dentist can utilize a computerized dental scanner and a 3D printer to make the imprints. After that, they'll be able to print a replica of your mouth. There will be no more waiting for the models to be returned from the lab. For the patient, this removes the need for a follow-up appointment.
A 3D dental printer can make veneers with incredible precision, giving you and your dentist confidence that they'll fit your mouth correctly.

Learn more in our blog article, "Types of Veneers and the Cost." 

Composite veneers are less expensive than porcelain veneers, costing between $250 and $1,500 per tooth against $925 to $2,500 for porcelain veneers. When comparing composite veneers to porcelain veneers, composite veneers require fewer dental visits for placement and are fastened more quickly and efficiently. On the other hand, composite veneers are not as strong or long-lasting as porcelain veneers. Composite resin veneers are only good for five to seven years, whereas porcelain is suitable for 10-15 years.

Learn more in our blog article, "Types of Veneers and the Cost." 

After the teeth have been prepared, molds are taken. Afterward, you and your dentist will use a shade guide to figure out how to match the color of your natural teeth as precisely as possible. The molds and shade guide are then sent to a lab to become custom veneers.
It may take a week or two for the lab to return the veneers to your dentist. In the meantime, your dentist can make you a temporary veneer to wear until your next appointment. The temporary veneer is only meant to be worn for a short time. When eating with the temporary veneers, use extra caution. Make sure you don't eat anything that could fracture or damage your teeth.

Learn more in our blog article, "Types of Veneers and the Cost." 

Veneers are porcelain or composite resin shells. They are made to fit over your teeth to improve their appearance or grin. Veneers are occasionally necessary to fix stained, chipped, crooked, deformed, or gapped teeth.

Learn more in our blog article, "Types of Veneers and the Cost." 

Because at-home whitening treatments aren't as concentrated as professional treatments, they take longer to see results. What might take one to two weeks at home can be accomplished in 45 minutes with your dentist. Even if another professional session is required to get the desired shade, it will take less time and effort than DIY whitening procedures.

Learn more in our blog article, "DIY vs. Professional Teeth Whitening." 

Because of the depth of penetration of the bleaching ingredient, professional in-office whitening procedures produce longer-lasting results. Although the results will not endure indefinitely, follow-up treatments or at-home whitening trays, your dentist offers, can help you keep your beautiful white smile for a long time.
DIY treatments will require more consistency overtime to brighten your smile, making a considerable difference in the long run.

Learn more in our blog article, "DIY vs. Professional Teeth Whitening." 

The cost of professional teeth whitening will vary depending on your location, the number of sessions required to obtain desired results, and the type of treatment you want.
Zoom whitening is the cheapest option, and laser whitening is the most expensive. In-office whitening typically costs between $450 and $1000.

Learn more in our blog article, "DIY vs. Professional Teeth Whitening." 

Cosmetic procedures such as tooth whitening are typically not covered by most dental insurance policies. However, some claim to provide coverage. As a result, it's critical to contact your insurance provider to determine what coverage might be applied to the total cost of teeth whitening if you don't have insurance.

Learn more in our blog article, "DIY vs. Professional Teeth Whitening." 

There must be some form of whitening substance administered to the teeth for any type of teeth whitening. The optimum results are produced when the teeth are thoroughly cleaned and polished before the procedure, ensuring there is no interference with the treatment.
The gumline is purposefully protected from the whitening solution in professional procedures, whether in-office or professional kits for at-home application. This reduces the risk of gum sensitivity both during and after the treatment.
If you opt for in-office professional whitening, your dentist may add a layer of fluoride to your teeth after the procedure to reduce the risk of sensitivity.

Learn more in our blog article, "DIY vs. Professional Teeth Whitening." 

It can be tough to get into the habit of wearing a removable retainer at first, especially if you have a child who requires one.
Making a retainer part of the overnight and morning routines is the simplest method to get a youngster to wear one. Make a dedicated spot for the retainer case in the bathroom. Keeping the case in the same place and in plain sight will serve as a visual reminder for your child to wear the retainer at night and take it out in the morning. Your youngster will establish the habit of wearing a retainer over time and with regularity.

Learn more in our blog article, "Retainers FAQs." 

The main advantage of dental retainers is that they keep your teeth from shifting. You may have recently spent a few years wearing braces or Invisalign and attending frequent sessions to correct your teeth. If your teeth start to move and become misaligned again, the work and money will feel like a waste.
After your orthodontic treatment is completed, being proactive about wearing your retainer will help you avoid bite difficulties and the chance of needing additional orthodontic treatment in the future.

Learn more in our blog article, "Retainers FAQs." 

When it comes to retainers, which must sometimes be worn for years, insurance is a wonderful method to transfer financial risk, and there’s a good chance you’ll need an expensive replacement retainer at some point in the future.
But how much does it cost to replace a retainer? The cost of replacing a retainer depends on several factors, including the type of retainer, your geographic location, and whether you have retainer insurance. Due to the high expense of a retainer without insurance, it is prudent to purchase retainer insurance from the start to avoid additional financial obligations in the future.

Learn more in our blog article, "Retainers FAQs." 

Maintaining the proper form of your retainer with appropriate care is critical to the amount of comfort you enjoy. While some discomfort is to be expected when wearing a retainer for the first week or after it has been tightened, this should not be the case daily. Good retainer care practices can help with the annoying abrasions and inconveniences that come with wearing a retainer.

Learn more in our blog article, "Retainer Too Tight." 

Retainers come in various shapes and sizes, and how they are adjusted depends on whatever type or types you have. If plastic retainers that look like Invisalign aligners aren’t fitting properly, they’ll need to be remade.
Likewise, if your retainer is permanently attached to your teeth, it must be removed, adjusted, and reattached in the proper position. An orthodontist can easily adjust a removable retainer with a wire piece; they will determine whether the retainer was properly designed, to begin with, or whether the issue is drifting of the teeth from the position set in place by the braces.

Learn more in our blog article, "Retainer Too Tight." 

A retainer should not be too tight or too loose all of the time, but what should you do if it is? If you think your retainer is too tight on your teeth or doesn’t fit properly in any manner, make an appointment with your orthodontist immediately.

Learn more in our blog article, "Retainer Too Tight." 

For the first few days after getting a retainer, it’s typical for it to be uncomfortable, tight, or painful. Even if the soreness lasts for a week, it’s usually not a cause for concern. However, if retainer pain persists for longer than a week, you should see your orthodontist. A retainer should not cause you to have persistent, ongoing pain that makes it difficult for you to function normally regularly.

Learn more in our blog article, "Retainer Too Tight." 

Laughing gas is an excellent sedative for a variety of dental operations. However, that does not imply that it is appropriate or safe for all patients. If you have any of the following problems, consult your dentist before undergoing any procedure:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or any other respiratory disorders
• Drug and substance abuse history
• Currently in the first trimester of pregnancy
• Vitamin b-12 deficiency
• A history of mental health condition

Learn more in our blog article, "What to Know about Laughing Gas." 

Nitrous oxide consumption is linked to several urgent health hazards, including:

• Fainting
• Heart attacks
• Blood pressure drop
• Hypoxia – fatality due to oxygen loss
• Anemia
• Vitamin b-12 deficiency
• Nerve damage associated with tingling sensations

Learn more in our blog article, "What to Know about Laughing Gas." 

Because of its effectiveness and safety, dentists are increasingly turning to laughing gas for sedation. It acts rapidly, usually in a matter of minutes, and it wears off quickly once the treatment is through. In addition, laughing gas allows you to speak with the dentist throughout the treatment because you are not sleepy, like you would be under general anesthesia.

Learn more in our blog article, "What to Know about Laughing Gas." 

Nitrous oxide and oxygen are mixed together. The patient then inhales it through a small face mask. Patients are told to take deep breaths regularly. After a few minutes, the laughing gas symptoms set in.

Learn more in our blog article, "What to Know about Laughing Gas." 

Nitrous oxide, often known as laughing gas, is a mild sedative commonly used during dental treatments. It’s used to manage a patient’s pain and anxiety due to the treatment, but it’s not meant to put you to sleep. Since the mid-1800s, laughing gas has been employed in surgical and dental treatments.

Learn more in our blog article, "What to Know about Laughing Gas." 

Brushing your teeth after fluoride treatment should be done according to the same guidelines as eating and drinking. You don’t want to clean your teeth too soon after applying fluoride since you can accidentally scrub away the fluoride. To avoid washing the fluoride off your teeth, wait four to six hours before brushing.

Learn more in our blog article, "Fluoride Treatment FAQs." 

Following a fluoride treatment, you should avoid a few foods and drinks. Coffee, tea, and soda are all dark beverages that can stain your teeth if consumed before the fluoride has had a chance to cling to your teeth fully. If you drink coffee or hot tea too soon after therapy, the heat can be harmful. Citrus fruits are acidic and should also be avoided.
In the hours following fluoride treatment, sticky confectionery and sugary soda should be avoided. If you are able, it is best for your teeth if you avoid sugary drinks and foods regularly.

Learn more in our blog article, "Fluoride Treatment FAQs." 

After you’ve had fluoride treatment, your best bet is to stay away from extremes when it comes to food and drink. Stick to lukewarm water and wait until the 30-minute waiting period has elapsed before drinking. For four to six hours, avoid hot or dark liquids like coffee or tea to ensure that the fluoride has had enough time to offer the full benefit. Start with light foods that don’t contain anything that could damage or stick to your teeth after the initial waiting period.
Here are some suggestions for food that are safe to eat after the waiting period:

• Hard-boiled eggs
• Potatoes
• Yogurt
• Bananas
• Applesauce

Learn more in our blog article, "Fluoride Treatment FAQs." 

At the 30-minute mark following fluoride treatment, drinking lukewarm water is acceptable. Many people ask, ‘how long after fluoride can I drink coffee?’ after fluoride treatment, hot liquids need a longer wait period. Allow time for the topical fluoride treatment to seal your teeth before consuming any beverages that could discolor your teeth or obstruct the process.

Learn more in our blog article, "Fluoride Treatment FAQs." 

It’s critical to be aware of the guidelines for eating following fluoride treatment. ‘How long after fluoride treatment may I eat?’ you might wonder after your regular dentist appointment and fluoride treatment. The typical guideline for eating following fluoride treatment is based on when you should eat, not what you should consume.
You should not only inquire about “what may I eat after fluoride treatment?” but also “how long can I eat after fluoride treatment?”
The most common guideline is to wait at least 30 minutes after receiving fluoride therapy before eating. In some cases, however, you may be advised to wait four to six hours following fluoride treatment before eating. The sort of fluoride treatment you receive and your situation will determine the specific suggestion you receive.

Learn more in our blog article, "Fluoride Treatment FAQs." 

Professional fluoride therapy comes in a variety of forms. A mouth rinse, gels, foam, pastes, and varnish are all examples of professional fluoride treatments. Your dentist will recommend the fluoride treatment best suited to your needs. Although fluoride treatment is quick to apply, you should spend some time learning about fluoride treatment aftercare. Before you finish your fluoride treatment, ask yourself the following questions:

• Can I eat after fluoride?
• Can I drink coffee after taking fluoride?
• What should I avoid eating after a fluoride treatment?
• How soon after fluoride treatment may I clean my teeth?

Learn more in our blog article, "Fluoride Treatment FAQs." 

When a child’s first tooth appears, he or she can receive their first fluoride treatment. Fluoride treatments can be advantageous throughout a person’s life, from childhood to maturity.
Fluoride is added to tap water and some bottled water in the United States. As people go about their daily lives, this provides a modest amount of fluoride. Unfortunately, the amount of fluoride in the water supply is insufficient to get the full advantages. Fluoride therapy during regular dental appointments can help you get the most out of fluoride’s benefits for your overall oral health. Professional fluoride treatment should be done at least twice a year for everyone with natural teeth.

Learn more in our blog article, "Fluoride Treatment FAQs." 

Fluoride treatment is a strategy to keep your teeth healthy and free of decay. Bacteria and enzymes eat away at the protective enamel of your teeth, causing tooth decay. Once bacteria have penetrated the enamel, they can cause decay in the tooth. Brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis can help prevent tooth decay. Professional fluoride therapy can provide an additional layer of decay defense.

Learn more in our blog article, "Fluoride Treatment FAQs." 

• Dry mouth
• Changes in eating habits can contribute to an increase in plaque buildup
• Your gums might be reacting to the acid present in vomit from morning sickness
• Changes in your home care habits leading to plaque buildup

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Health During Your Pregnancy."

You already know that you should give up activities such as drinking alcohol and smoking. Not only is it good for your body and the baby, but it’s good for your teeth. Additionally, here are some other steps you can take to protect your teeth during pregnancy: 

• Brush twice a day for at least two minutes
• Floss or clean between teeth daily
• Use a fluoride mouth rinse daily
• Get your teeth cleaned while pregnant

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Health During Your Pregnancy."

Swollen gums are common during pregnancy because of hormone changes. Because estrogen and progesterone fluctuate, it can cause an increase in blood flow, which causes the gums to swell, become sensitive, and irritated.
Additionally, changes in progesterone can make it harder for your body to fight off bacteria, such as plaque, naturally. Plaque buildup increases the chances of gingivitis which also causes your gums to redden and swell.

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Health During Your Pregnancy."

A few safe homeopathic treatments that might help alleviate your discomfort during pregnancy include: 

• Using a baking soda solution for brushing
• Rubbing Aloe Vera on swollen gums
• Drinking milk to get more Calcium and Vitamin K
• Rinsing with sugar-free pomegranate juice
• Applying garlic or clove to the affected area

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Health During Your Pregnancy."

Yes, bleeding gums are common during pregnancy, and as many as 40% of pregnant women develop periodontal disease or some form of gum disease.
While it is common during pregnancy, it should not go untreated since it can lead to tooth loss and destruction of the gums and supporting bones. It is perfectly safe to visit the dentist during pregnancy. Just be open about what you experience, how far along you are, and any medications or medical treatment you are receiving.

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Health During Your Pregnancy."

Yes, gum disease can negatively affect pregnancy, and there is a connection between periodontal disease and preterm births and low birth weight.
While Gum disease can be an indicator that adverse pregnancy outcomes are to follow, there is no evidence that gum disease is the cause of preterm births.
By seeing your dentist during pregnancy, you can work to reduce inflammation resulting from gum disease, which is common during months two and eight of pregnancy.

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Health During Your Pregnancy."

Not only can you go to the dentist while pregnant, but it is encouraged. The key is communication during your visits.
X-rays are safe while pregnant if you use protective aprons during the process.
Anesthesia is also safe during pregnancy.
While the ADA recommends essential dental work during pregnancy, there are some treatments not recommended during pregnancy, such as teeth whitening. Also, due to comfort, it’s recommended to schedule your regular dental appointment during the

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Health During Your Pregnancy."

From changes in hormones to disruption in your home care routines, several things can cause your teeth to feel sensitive during pregnancy: 

• Increased blood flow to the gums
• Hormone changes
  
• Changes to diet
• Grinding teeth
• Morning sickness

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Health During Your Pregnancy."

• Brushing twice a day, for at least two minutes, with fluoride toothpaste
• Eat less sugary food and drinks
• Flossing daily
• Use fluoride rinse
• Visit your dentist every six months
• If you are experiencing dry mouth, here are some things that work for some women.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy
• Suck on ice chips or sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum
• Drink more water and consume fewer spicy foods and alcoholic beverages
• Rinse your mouth with water or a mouth rinse after eating
• Use a humidifier, especially at night
• Talk to your dentist about mouth gels or sprays that increase the oral cavity moisture

Learn more in our blog article, "What to expect for your Oral Health during Menopause." 

• Dry Mouth
• Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS)
• Burning Mouth
• Burning Tongue
• Tooth Sensitivity
• Increased Cavities
• Gum Recession
• Gum Disease
• Weakened Jawbone
• Change in Taste

Learn more in our blog article, "What to expect for your Oral Health during Menopause." 

Yes, menopause can, in fact, affect your oral health because your gums and teeth are susceptible to hormonal changes. These changes in your body, due to hormones, make it so you have a harder time fighting off infections, including minor oral infections.
Menopause can result in dry mouth, glossodynia, and increase your dental disease and oral mucosal risk. Also, common with menopause are bleeding gums and sensitive teeth.

Learn more in our blog article, "What to expect for your Oral Health during Menopause." 

Just like in adults, foods and drinks can stain the surface of the teeth. In addition, these same foods leave behind bacteria. If your child does not brush regularly and visit a dentist, this bacteria will eventually turn to plaque and then tarter.
Plaque is an easily removed film over the teeth, and it can make the teeth look dull or discolored. However, tarter results from plaque hardening, and you need a dentist to remove this hardened surface. If you don’t prevent and remove plaque and tartar, it can lead to gum disease, decay, and other mouth and body issues.

Learn more in our blog article, "The Importance of Children's Dental Health Month." 

Cavities and infections are often a result of poor oral health, and they can make it quite difficult to complete everyday tasks. This can mean having trouble eating, speaking, and concentrating in school for a child.
When looking at the consequences from a long-term perspective, research tells us that those with poor oral health are more likely to miss school and therefore struggle with grades than children who have good oral health.
Something as simple as a cavity can make it difficult to concentrate, leading to other health issues if left untreated.

Learn more in our blog article, "The Importance of Children's Dental Health Month." 

If you have children, you might wonder how you start making oral hygiene a habit. Here are some easy steps to start your kids off on the right track!
1. Start early
Start teaching your child to brush before they even have teeth. Kids pick up habits quickly, so start by “brushing” your baby’s gums every morning and evening. Simply using a soft bristle brush or silicone finger with no toothpaste will do the trick. This makes it much easier to transition to toothpaste and an actual toothbrush when your child is ready to start brushing because they are used to the process.
2. Prioritized routine dental visits from a young age
You should take your child for their first dental visit within six months of the first tooth coming in and no later than their first birthday. Not only does this set the standard that dental appointments are essential, but it also works to correct problems or potential problems early on.
3. Set the example
You already know, kids watch everything you do, including how you take care of yourself. So by letting your kids see you brushing your teeth and flossing, they start to learn that this is something they, too, should do.
Let your kids see the steps you take to maintain good oral health. Talk about going to the dentist and show them foods that are both good for the body and their teeth. These are all effortless ways to set your kids up for success.

Learn more in our blog article, "The Importance of Children's Dental Health Month." 

There is a link between your oral health and heart disease; therefore, good oral health can decrease the chances of heart disease.
You have probably already heard that things such as exercising, diet, and a lack of tobacco products can help your heart. But did you know that healthy teeth and a healthy mouth can also reduce the risk of heart problems?
Since your oral health and heart health are connected, easy steps you can take to prevent heart disease include good oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist.

Learn more in our blog article, "Empower Yourself with National Wear Red Day." 

Yes, your oral health can directly impact the rest of your body. For instance, gum disease or a mouth infection can spread and cause systemic problems such as a stroke. It is important to know that periodontal disease or gingivitis (both common, preventable, and treatable) is associated with a much higher risk for specific strokes.
By simply maintaining good oral hygiene and routine care from your dentist, you can work to prevent periodontal disease and other infections.

Learn more in our blog article, "Empower Yourself with National Wear Red Day." 

The short answer is, yes, oral health can impact your heart health. This is because things such as infections can spread when not treated. For instance, if you have an oral infection and do not get it treated, it can spread through your bloodstream to other areas of your body, including your heart.
This is why oral health is so important. When you don’t have proper oral hygiene and do not visit your dentist regularly, it can lead to infections and other issues in the mouth. And when they are not treated, it can cause poor health in other parts of your body.

Learn more in our blog article, "Empower Yourself with National Wear Red Day." 

Dental insurance covers the costs that come with dental treatments. And those who have dental insurance are more likely to see their dentist. With regular cleanings and exams, you are working to prevent gum disease, which can lend itself to an array of issues both in and out of your mouth.

Learn more in our blog article, "Understanding Your Dental Benefits." 

If you have a dental plan, there are procedures commonly covered: office visits and regular cleanings, crowns and fillings, root canals, tooth extraction, and minor surgical procedures, braces and retainers, scaling and root planing, bridges, and dentures.

Learn more in our blog article, "Understanding Your Dental Benefits." 

Yes, your dentist can detect signs of diabetes. In fact, a peer might also be able to detect the symptoms. This is because some detectable signs of diabetes can be found in your breath. If your breath gives off a fruity or acetone-like (nail polish smell) odor because of high ketone levels, then you should seek out medical advice/treatment.

Learn more in our blog article, "The Link Between Diabetes and Your Gums." 

If you have unhealthy teeth, it can introduce bad bacteria into your bloodstream, which can increase diabetic complications. So, if you have teeth that cannot be helped, you should have them removed to decrease the amount of harmful bacteria introduced to your system.
For those who have been diagnosed with diabetes, it is recommended by the American Dental Association that you have your teeth cleaned at least three times a year. This also applies to those who have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, therefore both diseases are recommended to a periodontal maintenance program.

Learn more in our blog article, "The Link Between Diabetes and Your Gums." 

Diabetes affects more than your bodily health, it can also affect your oral health — your gums, teeth, and the tissue in your mouth can all show signs of diabetes. Here’s what to look out for:

• Puffy gums
• Burning sensation in your mouth
• Reoccurrence of mouth sores
• Reduced salivary gland function
• Altered taste

By attending regularly scheduled dental appointments, your dentist can see any changes and look for the symptoms listed above. If you do not have a regular dentist and notice any of the symptoms above, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist and/or primary care provider.

Learn more in our blog article, "The Link Between Diabetes and Your Gums." 

Dentures are an option to replace missing teeth, whether it be complete or partial dentures.
Full dentures, commonly known as complete dentures, fit over your gums and are used when the patient is missing all of your teeth in the upper and/or lower jaws. Your dentist will likely recommend full dentures because you do not have any natural teeth to support a bridge.
Partial dentures are used when you have one or more teeth missing and are also referred to as removable bridges. Partial dentures attach to natural teeth and have a metal framework and clasps.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Bridge vs. Dental Implants, Crown, & Dentures." 

Implant-supported bridges combine a dental bridge and an implant and are commonly referred to as partial dental implants. The biggest difference between a fixed bridge and a partial dental implant is that dental implants secure the bridge instead of the adjacent healthy teeth.
Your dentist may recommend this option if you do not have healthy teeth to support a traditional dental bridge.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Bridge vs. Dental Implants, Crown, & Dentures." 

If you want your dental bridge to last, you need to take proper care of it. Although a dental bridge typically lasts about five to seven years, it can last upwards of 10 years with care.
To increase the years before a replacement is needed, you must maintain good oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Regular appointments with your dentist are also important to help detect and deter issues that could lead to a necessary replacement.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Bridge vs. Dental Implants, Crown, & Dentures." 

Dental bridges fill the gap of a missing tooth between two existing teeth; they bridge your teeth together. If you have two healthy teeth with one or more teeth missing between them, your dentist may recommend a dental bridge.
On the other hand, a dental implant is a surgical replacement of your missing teeth, which requires attaching an implant to the jawbone. This involves removing both the tooth or teeth and roots.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Bridge vs. Dental Implants, Crown, & Dentures." 

Which should you get, a dental implant or a crown? The answer is going to depend on your needs and finances. For instance, crowns cost less than implants, so if you are paying out of pocket, a crown might be worth considering to help save money.
However, dental implants may cost more upfront and less in the long term, as they tend to last 10 to 15 years before needing to be replaced. Dental implants also require a crown (otherwise, you will have an exposed post in your mouth), leading to increased costs.
But, if you want to preserve your natural teeth, having a crown to complement your root canal rather than removing it could be beneficial since it is less involved.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Crowns vs. Implants: Fix Chipped Tooth." 

Dental implants can be used to fix broken or chipped teeth and consist of either a metal post or frame. Dental implants are surgically attached beneath the gums to the jawbone. Once the posts have been inserted, your dentist should be able to mount replacement teeth, such as crowns, a bridge, or dentures.
The two types of implants considered safe by the American Dental Association (ADA) are endosteal implants and subperiosteal implants.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Crowns vs. Implants: Fix Chipped Tooth." 

There are a variety of dental crowns, and your needs will determine which type of crown your dentist recommends.
The six types of dental crowns consist of various materials and, in some cases, a combination of the material. There are ceramic crowns, porcelain fused to metal, IPS e.max, base-metal alloy, and gold alloy dental crowns.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Crowns vs. Implants: Fix Chipped Tooth." 

A tooth cap, also known as a dental crown, fits over the tooth (like a cap). You might need a tooth cap if your tooth has lost its shape or size.
A cap is placed over the tooth and secured with cement and may be necessary if your tooth has lost its shape from injury, wear and tear, or decay.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Crowns vs. Implants: Fix Chipped Tooth." 

Did you chip a tooth? It can be fixed! Of course, the severity of the chip will deem what type of fixes are necessary.
A small or simple chip can be fixed with bonding, using a composite resin mold and then shaping the composite into the chip. If you have a bigger chip, your dentist may recommend veneers, a porcelain cover intended to look like a smooth and natural-looking tooth. On the other hand, a more severe chip or break will require either dental crowns or implants.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Crowns vs. Implants: Fix Chipped Tooth." 

Root canals are invasive and are considered a major dental procedure. As a result, your dentist should consider other options before making this recommendation.
Alternatives to a root canal may include taking antibiotics to treat the infection. However, this may not be an option if the infection is too severe.

Learn more in our blog article, "Root Canal Costs, Infections, and Eating." 

Just like a tooth extraction, you can eat a variety of soft foods and liquids such as mashed potatoes, ice cream, apple sauce, broths, and yogurt, to name a few. However, until you no longer have pain and swelling, you should stay away from hard or sticky foods.
Also, ensure you wait until the numbness wears off before eating anything, as you do not want to risk biting your tongue or cheek.

Learn more in our blog article, "Root Canal Costs, Infections, and Eating." 

Root canals can be complex, and when things are complicated, they usually get costly. Root canals typically involve multiple office visits and might require both a general dentist and an endodontist, increasing the cost.
Where you live, how many visits are required, referrals needed, insurance, and severity of the infection will all fact into the cost of your root canal. Depending on the necessities, you might pay less than $1,000, but the price can add up quickly if it is not a straightforward procedure.
If you do not have insurance, look into the financing and insurance options available through the Smile Generation.

Learn more in our blog article, "Root Canal Costs, Infections, and Eating." 

Decay, gum disease, and injury can lead to a necessary root canal. After removal, signs that you have an infection in your root canal include pain that does not get better, warmth around the tooth, and fever.
While root canal infections after removal are not common, they do happen. So, if you have any of the symptoms listed above, it might be possible that bacteria got into the root canal. If this happens, follow up with your dentist.

Learn more in our blog article, "Root Canal Costs, Infections, and Eating." 

If you have deep decay or the pulp is exposed to an infection, you might need a root canal. A root canal involves the removal of that pulp, which is the soft tissue inside of your tooth. This tissue provides your teeth nourishment and will need to be replaced if infected. Infection of the pulp is an issue that should be addressed as it can lead to significant pain, swelling, and abscess.

Learn more in our blog article, "What Is A Root Canal?" 

After having a tooth extracted, you will want to avoid any foods that could cause more damage, pain, or infection. For example, foods that are sticky, hard, acidic, spicy, or can get stuck in the socket are all foods that should be avoided.
While many foods should be avoided, some will help with both oral and hunger pains. These foods consist of cold foods, such as ice cream and Jell-O, eggs, mashed potatoes, broth, yogurt, and oatmeal. As your healing progresses, you can slowly introduce soft food; just make sure to rinse with salt water after your meals to prevent infection.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Extractions: Cost Without Insurance, Healing and Eating." 

Without insurance, a tooth extraction can cost more than you might expect. The cost will also depend on a few things, such as where you live and the type of extraction you need. For instance, a simple extraction, where no incision was made, will cost less than a surgical extraction, where an incision and sutures were required.
Typically, but not in all locations or offices, a simple tooth extraction will cost less than $100, while more complicated extractions can cost over $1,000.
If you do not have insurance, consider a dental plan or financing through Smile Generation—dental plans typically cost less than insurance.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Extractions: Cost Without Insurance, Healing and Eating." 

There are two types of tooth extractions, and the type of extraction will determine the length of healing.
The first type of extraction is a simple extraction and usually requires little intervention in the healing process. Simple extractions do not involve significant healing lengths as there is no required incision.
The second type of extraction is a surgical extraction and will require weeks to heal. This type of tooth extraction requires cutting to get the entire tooth, including the roots out. While the healing process starts almost immediately, you are looking at several weeks before the site is completely healed.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Extractions: Cost Without Insurance, Healing and Eating." 

Damaged tooth? You might need a tooth extraction. If your tooth is damaged below the gum line, chances are, your dentist will not be able to save it. When the tooth is either damaged wholly or severely broken, your dentist will likely recommend a tooth extraction.
Other cases, such as advanced gum disease, will also constitute a tooth extraction because it can permanently damage both your teeth and jaw if not treated. And in some cases, if there is an abscess, you will also need a tooth extraction.
There are also cases where there is no sign of disease, decay, or damage, yet a tooth extraction may be necessary. For instance, a tooth extraction might be recommended if you have overly crowded teeth.

Learn more in our blog article, "Emergency Tooth Extractions." 

Having your wisdom teeth removed has already proven to be a painful experience, but it becomes excruciating if you also endure an infection. Infections are also quite dangerous and need to be treated immediately, as they can spread to other parts of the body.
If you have an infected wisdom tooth, your dentist will likely recommend removing it. You will know your wisdom tooth is infected if there is pain around the tooth, you have a fever, swollen gums, pain in your jaw, bad breath, your lymph glands are enlarged, and you start having difficulty chewing. When you have an infected wisdom tooth, it may even be hard to open your mouth, and your jaw or the side of your face may become swollen.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Recovery: What to Expect." 

After having your wisdom teeth removed, what you eat and do not eat can either help or hinder the healing process. Foods that can cause more problems and should be avoided consist of crunch or chewy things; this is because these foods can reopen the incision and cause excessive pain.
Other foods that you should avoid if you do not want to add to the pain are high acid and spicy foods. Also, please stay away from anything that can get stuck in the socket. These types of food can create an infection, which is both painful and dangerous.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Recovery: What to Expect." 

After having your wisdom teeth removed, you must eat foods that do not hinder healing. However, eating some foods can lead to more pain and even infections, which can be dangerous.
Foods that are safe to eat consist of ice cream (a favorite for many), applesauce, yogurt, pudding, Jell-O (another favorite), broth, and mashed potatoes. Cold foods, in particular, are great options because they help with the pain common with wisdom tooth removal.
If you are within the first 24-hours of the healing process, a liquid diet will be optimal. And as your healing continues, you can start to introduce soft foods that do not cause extra pain when chewing, such as eggs and oatmeal. In addition, most mashed-up, whipped, creamy, or smooth foods will not cause additional pain and are safe to consume as you recover from your wisdom tooth removal.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Recovery: What to Expect." 

Bone grafts can come from various sources, such as a human donor, animal, or another area of your body. A bone graft from a human donor is referred to as an allograft and is the most common recommendation to those needing a dental bone graft.
A bone graft from an animal source is known as a xenograft, and if you use bone from a different area of your body, it is known as an autogenous. There is also a synthetic option available for those who feel uncomfortable with using bone from a human or animal cadaver or do not want to use bone from their own body and is known as an alloplast.
Your dentist may recommend one or all of these options. However, the recommendation may also result on what the dentist can offer you, what your insurance is willing to cover, and your specific needs.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Bone Graft: Procedure and Healing." 

The type of dental bone graft you need, where you live, if you have insurance, and the extent of the work required will determine the cost of your procedure.
For instance, having insurance can lower your out-of-pocket expenses considerably. There are also a variety of dental plans and financing available through Smile Generation that can help cover the cost of your bone graft.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Bone Graft: Procedure and Healing." 

The side effects of a dental bone graft are minimal. However, as with any procedure, there are risks of developing an infection, seeing bleeding, and issues directly related to the anesthesia needed for the procedure. More significant side effects may include nerve damage, which can occur with any dental surgery.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Bone Graft: Procedure and Healing." 

To restore bone loss in your jaw, your oral surgeon may recommend one of several types of bone grafts, depending on the cause of bone loss. These different bone grafts consist of a socket preservation bone graft, ridge expansion bone graft, or sinus lift.
After a tooth extraction, you may be recommended a socket or ridge preservation bone graft. A Ridge expansion bone graft is recommended for patients with significant bone loss. And finally, if there is bone or tooth loss in the part of your moth directly below your sinus, your surgeon may recommend a sinus lift bone graft.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Bone Graft: Procedure and Healing." 

A dental bone graft is needed when bone loss is in your jaw. A bone graft corrects the loss of bone in your jaw by placing new material in the jawbone, which will help grow new bone in the affected area.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Bone Graft: Procedure and Healing." 

A toothache can cause considerable pain, and in some cases, it may feel like a dental emergency. If your pain is manageable, you might benefit from doing a cold compress, taking over-the-counter pain medications, and doing a rinse. If you are looking for a natural or herbal treatment, other options might include applying crushed garlic, vanilla extract, clove oil, or peppermint tea to the area.
If your pain is not manageable, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. They may recommend an antibiotic if you have jaw swelling or fever due to your toothache.

Learn more in our blog article, "Toothaches: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment." 

There are a variety of conditions that lead to toothaches. These conditions consist of things such as cavities, damaged fillings, broken or abscessed teeth, infections, eruptions, extractions, sensitivity, disorders, bruxism, sinusitis, and food particles accumulating between the teeth.
Visiting your dentist is always the best option for determining the exact cause of your toothache and what treatments are needed to fix the pain.

Learn more in our blog article, "Toothaches: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment." 

The symptoms of a toothache are not always simple tooth pain. Other symptoms may include jaw pain or sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks.
If you have tooth or pain when you chew, experience sensitivity to hot, cold, and even sweet and sour food or drink, you should see your dentist to determine why you have pain and try to remedy it.
Other symptoms may include headaches, jaw and even tooth swelling, bad breath, fevers, swollen glands, trauma to the mouth, and bleeding or discharge around the tooth or gums.
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should be seen by your dentist, as these symptoms may result from a more severe problem and can be a sign of decay or gum disease.

Learn more in our blog article, "Toothaches: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment." 

Why you have a toothache can depend on the type of pain you feel. This pain may come in the form of sharp, biting pain, or it may be dull and chronic.
Your toothache presents such significant pain due to what is in your tooth pulp—the nerves. Therefore, if you have any irritation or infection of the pulp, you will have some severe pain.

Learn more in our blog article, "Toothaches: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment." 

When you have tooth pain, that is a toothache, and it emanates either in or around the tooth that has an issue. Depending on the type of toothache you have, it may need to be treated by your dentist.
Issues that cannot resolve themselves need to be seen by a dentist. Other types of tooth pain may result from sensitive teeth and can be treated with special toothpaste and mouthwash. However, it is best to see your dentist if you are unsure.

Learn more in our blog article, "Toothaches: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment." 

If you want to fix your large teeth, several cosmetic dentistry options are available. These options may include shaving or trimming down the larger teeth, adding composite resin after reshaping, and replacing the tooth with a false tooth.
Why you have macrodontia will also determine if you need to see a primary care doctor. For instance, if your condition results from a syndrome, simply fixing the teeth will not address the underlying problem.

Learn more in our blog article, "Large & Small Teeth: How to Fix Them." 

While some people have smaller teeth than the average person, some have larger teeth than others. This may include teeth that are wider or longer than average, and it is referred to as macrodontia and is typically the result of genetics. In addition, macrodontia can result from specific syndromes, hormones, and glandular imbalances.
Macrodontia comes in three forms, isolated macrodontia, true generalized macrodontia, and relative generalized macrodontia. Isolated macrodontia is when only one tooth is affected, which is quite rare. True generalized macrodontia is extremely rare and is when all the teeth are larger than they should be. Finally, relative generalized macrodontia is when the teeth are large for the individual's facial structure whose teeth are actually of average size.

Learn more in our blog article, "Large & Small Teeth: How to Fix Them." 

Whether microdontia negatively impacts your self-esteem or oral health, there are options to fix your small teeth.
Corrective methods, such as cosmetic dentistry to make your teeth larger can help build self-confidence and prevent further teeth and jaw damage. Based on your specific situation, you may have various options available to you.
Options for fixing small teeth may include composite bonding, dental veneers, porcelain crowns, and gum reshaping.

Learn more in our blog article, "Large & Small Teeth: How to Fix Them." 

There are two types of microdontia, true generalized microdontia and localized microdontia. True generalized microdontia is when you have a complete set of atypically small teeth, and it is rare. However, localized microdontia is when one tooth is smaller than the rest of the teeth, which is much more common.
While microdontia may seem insignificant outside of aesthetics, it can cause more serious issues. For instance, it can lead to unnecessary wear and tear because microdontia can create an improper bite, creating weakness of the tooth structure and even tooth decay.

Learn more in our blog article, "Large & Small Teeth: How to Fix Them." 

If you have sensitive teeth, you will know it by the intense pain you feel, particularly from eating or drinking hot and cold foods. It is really the source of the pain that creates sensitivity. For instance, you can have sensitive teeth from lack of enamel or structural damage. And that pain can come when you hot or cold foods, suck in air, or eat acidic food and beverages.
For those who have never suffered from tooth sensitivity, you may not know that eating sweets and sour foods can create the same level of pain. The type of toothpaste and mouthwash you use can also intensify tooth pain.

Learn more in our blog article, "Sensitive Teeth: Causes & Treatment." 

Are you looking for a permanent solution to sensitive teeth? Depending on the source of your pain, this may look different for everyone. For instance, if you have a cracked tooth, it may be causing pain when you brush. By fixing the tooth, or the root cause, you should also eliminate the pain.
For others, the solution may require changing out your toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, or diet. For example, if you know that your teeth only hurt when eating acidic foods, you might consider not eating this type of food.

Learn more in our blog article, "Sensitive Teeth: Causes & Treatment." 

There are a few reasons you may have sensitive teeth, but the most common reason is that the enamel on your teeth has worn down over time. However, there are some extenuating circumstances, such as structural damage.
If you want to prevent sensitive teeth, it is best to stay away from things such as intense brushing. You also want to make sure you do not use a hard toothbrush as the bristle can damage enamel. Also, eating or drinking too much acidic food can create the same results.

Learn more in our blog article, "Sensitive Teeth: Causes & Treatment." 

Permanent retainers are permanent because they cannot be taken out at night. However, they are not permanent for a lifetime. A dentist may recommend a permanent retainer because you need a retainer 24/7 until the structure of your teeth heals. Once the orthodontist believes that your teeth will stay in place without a retainer, they may recommend the retainer be removed.
Despite a permanent retainer not being a lifetime commitment, most fixed retainers stay in the patient’s mouth up to 10, even 15 years.

Learn more in our blog article, "Retainers FAQs." 

If you are wearing a permanent retainer, that means you cannot take it out when you eat. So, like your braces, you must be careful what you eat as your diet can damage the retainer.
For instance, if you eat sticky foods, like caramel or bite into hard foods, such as hard candy or ice, you might damage the retainer. Also, normal wear and tear can take its toll on your retainer, which means if you wear it long enough, you might need a replacement.

Learn more in our blog article, "Retainers FAQs." 

How long you must wear a retainer will depend. This is because everyone’s mouth is different and heals at different speeds. For example, younger people tend to heal more quickly than older adults. Therefore, the amount of time might not be the same for everyone.
However, as a general rule of thumb, you might need to wear your retainer for around eight months. The healing is required because the structures holding your teeth needs to heal. Once your braces are off, your teeth will likely move back in place over time. Movement happens because of regular chewing and biting, but also because the ligament stretched while wearing braces may snap back into place. For this reason, your orthodontist may recommend wearing your retainer for a prolonged amount of time. This may mean wearing it at night, so your teeth stay where they are intended to be.
Ultimately, how long you wear your retainer will depend on the stability of your teeth.

Learn more in our blog article, "Should I Wear My Retainer & Do Retainers Hurt?"

A fixed retainer is sometimes referred to as a permanent retainer because you do not take it out. Unlike a removable retainer you might take out in the morning when you wake up, a fixed retainer is bonded or cemented to the backside of your teeth.
Also called a bonded retainer, a fixed retainer can be fitted either to the lower or upper part of your mouth because of the bonding technique mentioned. This is done using a thin wire custom-fitted to the patient’s mouth.

Learn more in our blog article, "Retainers FAQs." 

If you wear a retainer, you must ensure it is cleaned just as you clean your teeth, especially if it is permanent or you are wearing a retainer at night. Proper oral hygiene means regularly cleaning your retainer so that it does not buildup harmful bacteria or lead to plaque buildup.
If you are unsure where to start, ask your orthodontist to recommend a mouth rinse and toothpaste. Like caring for your teeth, these are needed to clean your retainer. For instance, your orthodontist may tell you to brush your retainer with toothpaste before wearing it, particularly if you are going to wear it at night.

Learn more in our blog article, "Retainers FAQs." 

For some, an oral cancer screening is free because it is included in the cost of your comprehensive dental exam. Other dental offices charge an additional fee somewhere between $10 and $35. If your dentist does not include an oral cancer screening as a part of your annual exam, you are looking at paying between $70 and $90.
Pricing also depends on where you live and insurance.

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Cancer Screenings: Cost and Steps." 

Because it is not always noticeable whether a person has oral cancer, it is vital to have a regular cancer screening to ensure there are no forms of oral cancer inside the mouth. Some routine dental checkups include this exam, but not all dentists do. Therefore, it is important to ask your dentist about the exam.
You will know if your dentist is performing an oral cancer screening because they should thoroughly check the tissues, gums, and tongue. This exam also includes your ears, nose, neck, and head in some cases.

Learn more in our blog article, "Oral Cancer Screenings: Cost and Steps." 

Oral cancer can affect various parts of the mouth, such as gums, lips, and tongue. It can also affect the insides of a person’s cheeks and the roof and floor of the mouth. Basically, any form of cancer that starts in the mouth is referred to as oral cancer.
Because most oral cancers develop into squamous cells, they are called squamous cell carcinomas. These are the cells that makeup one’s mouth and throat lining. Unfortunately, oral cancer does not always result in pain; to let you know there may be an issue, which is why you should get regular cancer screenings.

Learn more in our blog article, "Time To Get In The Know Of Oral Cancer." 

Most people have 32 teeth; some have fewer depending on whether all wisdom teeth come in. Of course, all 32 teeth do not show up at once, but most children are born with 20 teeth under the gumline, leaving another 12 teeth to develop and grow.
What does a full set of teeth look like? Glad you asked!

8 incisors
4 canines (or cuspids)
8 premolars
8 molars
4 wisdom teeth (also classified as a type of molar)

As teeth start growing in, some people may begin to see crowding. In cases of misalignment, the wisdom teeth can be removed, leaving you with only 28 teeth. And when can you expect to have between 28 and 32 teeth? For most, the answer is while they are a teenager.

People have two sets of molars, and they generally come in toward the end of the baby's tooth development. The first molars tend to come in after the incisors, while the second comes in after the canine teeth.
Molars are the set of teeth that surface in the back of the mouth. Keep in mind, this is before wisdom teeth (third molars) come in, which is usually during the teenage or young adult years. The second set of molars are usually the last set of teeth to break the gum line in babies but may not appear until 20-30 months old.

Learn more in our blog article, "Baby Teeth Guide: Teething, Care and More." 

Baby teeth do not always come in the same order, but it is pretty predictable in most cases. Generally speaking, the upper front and lower front teeth or bottom and upper central incisors come in first, followed by the teeth on either side of those (upper and lower lateral incisors. These teeth may or may not come in before the first birthday.
Next, your child’s first set of molars should start to come in; these are the back teeth. Then, the canine teeth (the sharp, pointed-looking teeth) should come in. Then, the last of the baby teeth should come in, somewhere between 20-30 months old.
Finally, there are the wisdom teeth, which typically come in during the teenage years or early 20s. However, do not be alarmed if your child does not develop wisdom teeth­—some people do not get them.

Learn more in our blog article, "Baby Teeth Guide: Teething, Care and More." 

No person is the same, and that goes for our teeth too. Generally, the first two teeth to surface from under the gumline are the lower central incisors (the bottom front teeth). Again, this is for most but not all children. Sometimes other teeth come in first. However, if your child falls into the general category, the upper front teeth or upper central incisors should come in next.
Once the front sets of teeth come in, the upper lateral incisors (located on either side of the upper front teeth) will most likely come in next, followed by the same set on the bottom. Depending on your child’s development, they may have all or only some of these teeth by the time they turn a year old.

Learn more in our blog article, "Baby Teeth Guide: Teething, Care and More." 

Not all, but most babies are born with teeth. If you are wondering why you have never seen a newborn with a complete set of teeth, it is because they are still under the gumline. It is the process of teething that helps the teeth surface.
While teething does not typically start until about six months old, not all children are the same. Therefore, when your child begins to teeth, it will also depend on how long it takes before baby teeth start to come in. Some children will get their first tooth before six months old; others may take over a year.
If you are concerned, particularly if your baby has not started teething around the nine-month mark, consider taking them to a pediatrician or a pediatric dentist so they can determine if it is something to concern yourself with. However, delayed teething is not usually something to worry about. But it is worth taking your baby to be checked on, as it can cause some medical and dental issues.

Learn more in our blog article, "Baby Teeth Guide: Teething, Care and More." 

Are you trying to figure out when the tooth fairy needs to start making her rounds? If so, you can expect the much-anticipated visitor somewhere between ages six and 12 when kids start losing their baby teeth.
While the order in which teeth fall out can vary, they typically fall out in the same order they came in. So, if your child’s first tooth was the lower central incisors (those bottom front teeth), chances are likely, although not definite, that those will also be the first to fall out.

Learn more in our blog article, "Baby Teeth Guide: Teething, Care and More." 

An underbite is when the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth, and it can cause considerable difficulty chewing, biting, and speaking. Underbites can also cause pain in the mouth and jaw. In addition, having an underbite can leave you prone to biting the insides of your cheeks, lips, and tongue.
Underbites are typically genetic but have also been associated with prolonged thumb sucking, pacifier, and baby bottle use.

Learn more in our blog article, "What is an Underbite?" 

An overbite looks how it sounds when the upper teeth overlap the bottom teeth. It is common for some to have a little bit of an overbite, but if you have a more severe overbite (malocclusion), it might be worth seeing a dentist, as overbites affect more than aesthetics.
How your teeth and jaw sit can affect both your oral and physical health, as it can cause headaches, TMJ, earaches, jaw clenching, and teeth grinding.

Learn more in our blog article, "Why is it Called an Overbite?" 

A dentist who performs surgery on both the jaw and face is a maxillofacial surgeon and treats issues involving the structure of the face. For example, if you need maxillofacial surgery, you need an oral maxillofacial surgeon because they specialize in jawbone and facial surgery.

Learn more in our blog article, "What is Oral Maxillofacial Surgery?" 

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction or TMJ dysfunction is in the jaw joint and its surrounding muscles. When there is pain or comprised movement in these areas, it is known as TMJ dysfunction, and there are a variety of treatments to combat this discomfort, some of which are surgical, others non-surgical.  If you need surgical treatment of the TMJ, it is irreversible. Therefore, it should be considered a last resort. Non-surgical treatments are less invasive and can help ease the pain until surgery is needed. Reducing pain may involve using medication, applying ice packs to the painful area, and minimizing jaw movement. There are also jaw relaxation and stress reduction techniques and jaw stretching exercises.

Learn more in our blog article, "Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: TMJ & TMD." 

A dental bridge or tooth bridge is when a false tooth is held in place by abutting teeth on either side of the replacement gap. This means that there is a false tooth between two natural teeth, and those natural teeth are holding the false tooth in place. The false tooth is known as a pontic and can be made with various materials, such as gold or porcelain.
Some dental patients may elect a dental bridge over a partial denture because they look better and let you eat and speak more easily than partial dentures.

Learn more in our blog article, "What is a Dental Bridge: Types, Procedure & Cost." 

Bonding is the process of bonding something to your teeth, such as porcelain or resin, to fix a damaged tooth. Teeth bonding can also be used in cases where you have an unwanted gap between your teeth that you want to be filled.
The material used in bonding is meant to fuse to the patient’s tooth; this way, it feels natural to the patient and looks realistic to others when used to improve the smile. Bonding is also quick, and in many cases, only requires one visit to the office. Even better, it typically requires little if any downtime.

Learn more in our blog article, "Teeth Bonding: A Complete Guide." 

Unlike a Smile Makeover, full mouth reconstruction typically requires cosmetic dental procedures. For instance, you are improving the functioning of your teeth by doing a dental implant procedure. And just like a Smile Makeover, it can help create the aesthetically pleasing smile you have always wanted.

Learn more in our blog article, "Smile Makeover: Procedures, Types & Cost." 

If you are looking at having a Smile Makeover done, there are a variety of treatments to get you exactly what you want and get you feeling your best when it comes to your smile.

• Dental Veneers
• Dental Crowns
• Composite Bonding
• Tooth Implants
• Teeth Whitening

Learn more in our blog article, "Smile Makeover: Procedures, Types & Cost." 

A Smile Makeover will vary from person to person, depending on the cosmetic procedures you want to be performed. It will also depend on other factors, such as the severity of dental damage, insurance, and where you live.
Whether you want to do a simple procedure, such as in-office teeth whitening, or something more complex, insurance may cover part of the costs. However, you are likely to have to pay at least some out-of-pocket expenses. Luckily there are many dental offices providing payment plans so you can achieve the smile you have always wanted without paying everything upfront.

Learn more in our blog article, "Smile Makeover: Procedures, Types & Cost." 

If you are ready to transform your smile, then a Smile Makeover is for you, and we look forward to giving you a smile you have always wanted!
A Smile Makeover transforms your smile by changing teeth, gums, and your bite. For instance, if your teeth are discolored, a Smile Makeover will address those stains. And depending on what you are looking for, we could fix damaged teeth, misalignment, missing teeth, and even that gap you have always hated.

Learn more in our blog article, "Smile Makeover: Procedures, Types & Cost." 

Teeth grinding or bruxism is most common in children; therefore, it is wise to keep a listening ear to more than those mischievous sounds coming from the other room.
Other than actually hearing the sound of teeth grinding together, the best way to know if your child grinds their teeth is by visiting a dentist. By having a dentist look at your child’s teeth, they will be able to see if the teeth have any wear to them, including chips, cracks, and even tenderness. If the dentist finds evidence of bruxism, they may offer a mouth guard and other advice in eliminating bruxism.

Learn more in our blog article, "Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Causes & Treatment." 

Known as sleep bruxism, grinding teeth in your sleep typically means disturbance in your sleep pattern. This disturbance can have several factors, causing you to grind your teeth.
While grinding your teeth can result from a disorder or genetic condition, this is not always the case.
If you do not fall into one of those categories, take a look at your lifestyle. For example, are you stressed, drink high levels of caffeine or alcohol before going to bed? Do you participate in recreational drug use? If any of these apply to you, it could be why you are grinding your teeth while sleeping.

Learn more in our blog article, "Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Causes & Treatment." 

Anxiety and stress, habits and coping mechanisms, genetics, physical and mental disorders, as well as external factors such as caffeine, medication, alcohol, and drug use, can cause teeth clenching and grinding.
Teeth grinding is primarily seen in children, adolescents, and young adults but can affect individuals more as they progress into middle-age and older.

Learn more in our blog article, "Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Causes & Treatment." 

Bruxism is regularly called teeth grinding because of the sound and action of your teeth grinding against one another. Bruxism involves both the act of clenching and grinding the teeth together or gnashing.
Bruxism is most common during sleep; however, some individuals may grind their teeth together when they are awake (awake bruxism). Both sleep and awake bruxism can cause damage to your teeth and the jaw.

Learn more in our blog article, "Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Causes & Treatment." 

Teeth grinding, also referred to as bruxism, is the terrible sound you hear when someone clenches and grinds their teeth together. Not only is it a cringe-worthy sound, but it is also bad for your health.
Repetitive grinding of the teeth can affect your sleep (sleep bruxism), cause damage to your teeth and overall oral health, and even create adverse mental and physical health conditions.

Learn more in our blog article, "Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Causes & Treatment." 

If you have concerns about the inside of the tooth, you need an Endodontist. An Endodontist focuses on treating and caring for the sensitive material in the center of your teeth — the nerves found inside the dental pulp.
Endodontics means “inside the tooth,” and your Endodontist is there to help protect that part of the tooth. Their goal is to save your natural teeth from infection or injury and keep them from needing to be extracted.

Learn more in our blog category, "Endodontics."

If you have gum disease, you need to see a Periodontist because they specialize in diagnosing and treating gum disease. They are called periodontists because periodontal disease is the medical term for gum disease.
A Periodontist pays particular attention to the parts of the mouth surrounding the teeth, such as the gum, bone, and connective tissue. Wondering what else a Periodontist might do? They are known for performing pocket-depth reduction, soft tissue grafts, dental implants, non-surgical treatments like scaling and root planing, along with various dental-related cosmetic procedures.

Learn more in our blog category, "Periodontics."

Gingivitis is a word that describes the beginning stages of gum disease or periodontal disease. Things such as not brushing your teeth before bed, between meals, and forgetting to floss, can result in gingivitis.
If you have gingivitis, you might feel irritation and see redness and swelling around the gingiva — giving gingivitis its name. The gingiva is the gum that encompasses the base of the tooth. If you think you have gingivitis, you should consult a dentist so it does not become more serious.

Learn more in our blog article, "Gingivitis: Symptoms of Gum Disease, Causes, and Treatment." 

While gums may bleed for various reasons, some being more severe than others, the most common could be due to your brushing and flossing habits. For instance, you might have healthy gums, but if you have recently picked up flossing, there is a chance you could irritate the gums, which can cause them to bleed.
Another common reason for gums to bleed is if you have gingivitis. Gingivitis causes gum bleeding, particularly after brushing your teeth. And if you are pregnant, you might also notice the gums bleeding.

Learn more in our blog article, "Healthy Gums: Maintaining Good Oral Health." 

There are various reasons you may have a mouth blister or mouth sore, some more serious than others. These blisters and sores can be caused by mouth trauma (biting, scratching, or damage inside of the mouth), viral infections (such as herpes), underlying conditions like Aphthous Stomatitis (leads to canker sores), allergies and food sensitivities, hormonal fluctuations, diseases (HIV/AIDS, Behcet’s Disease, Crohn’s Disease, etc.), mouth burns, and even high stress.

Learn more in our blog article, "Mouth Ulcers & Sores: Symptoms & Treatment." 

Mouth Ulcers are lesions in the mouth. When you accidentally bite the inside of your cheek, for instance, bacteria from food can set in, which causes ulcers. However, there are many other reasons an ulcer may form, such as viral infections, burns, allergic reactions, or underlying conditions.

Learn more in our blog article, "Mouth Ulcers & Sores: Symptoms & Treatment." 

Once your tooth is pulled, there is a hole left behind. In that hole, a clot should form, which looks wet with a red scab. A dry socket is just the opposite of this. If you can see the space, instead of being wet, it will look dry and empty. Some patients may also see bone tissue because there is no red scab covering the area.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dry Socket: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment." 

After a tooth is removed, the hole left behind leaves room for a dry socket. A dry socket occurs in the space when a blood clot gets loose, comes out, or does not form at all. The dry socket hurts because the clot is meant to cover the nerve ending in the tooth socket. Those nerve endings are exposed without a blood clot to protect the area, and food particles or other debris touching the nerves cause significant pain.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dry Socket: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment." 

Dental inlays are fillings. It is the part that fits inside the tooth's pit and fissures. The main difference between the inlay and onlay is that it does not cover the tooth's cusps. A dental onlay is a partial crown covering at least one or all of the tooth's cusps.
You can think of inlays and onlays as such: Both repair the tooth's surface that is meant for chewing, but each is responsible for covering a different part of that surface. For example, the inlay covers the pits and fissures between cusps while onlays cover the cusps themselves.
Also, onlays are usually more expensive than an inlay because they cover more area.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Inlays and Onlays: Restorative Dentistry." 

The first place to start preventing cavities is with good oral hygiene, which includes regular brushing and flossing. When you brush and floss, you are actively getting rid of plaque and acids forming on your teeth, which, if not cared for, can lead to a cavity. It is also good to cut back on consuming sugary and starchy food and drinks.
Combined with dental checkups and dental sealants, you are well on your way to preventing cavities.

Learn more in our blog article, "What is a Tooth Cavity?" 

Cavities include permanent damage to the tooth, created by tooth decay, and resemble a hole in the affected area. When acid forms and erodes the tooth’s protective surface, the enamel, it allows for decay. This decay happens for various reasons: consuming sugary foods and drinks, mouth bacterial, and not having good oral hygiene.
While anyone can get a cavity, children, teenagers, and older adults are more likely to develop one. If you think you have a cavity, your dentist should treat it. Failure to treat your cavity can lead to further oral issues, such as infections and tooth loss.

Learn more in our blog article, "Cavities and Tooth Decay: Everything You Need to Know." 

While often described as a tooth infection, an abscess is actually an infection around the tooth. Infection typically involves the gums, supporting structures, or the tip of the root. When a pocket of pus develops around the tooth, it creates a tooth abscess. Contrary to popular belief, not all tooth abscesses come with pain, but when they do, it can feel like a dental emergency.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Abscess: Symptoms & Treatment."

A tooth extraction is the process of extracting the tooth from the mouth. In some cases, tooth extractions are simple, such as a baby tooth that will not fall out. In other cases, tooth extractions are complex and require surgical removal. If the tooth is above the gum line, it is considered simple, but if it is below the gum line, meaning it has not grown in, you will need a surgical extraction.
If you require a surgical tooth extraction, such as with an impacted wisdom tooth, the dentist may need to remove gum tissue or even parts of the bone to extract the tooth. You may need a tooth extraction if the dentists believe you to have severe tooth decay, advanced gum disease, crowded teeth, an abscess, impact, or other dental injuries that are not treatable.

Learn more in our blog article, "What Is A Tooth Extraction?" 

Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed. However, many people do. You will know you need your wisdom teeth removed if you have pain, which may come and go. You have this pain because the wisdom teeth are growing or impacted. If the pain continues or gets worse, you should see your dentist. Otherwise, there may be further issues resulting from ignoring the pain.
If you are unsure if you need to have your wisdom teeth removed, a dentist can examine your teeth and advise you on whether the cause of your pain is growth or impact.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Removal." 

Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth pulled out. If your wisdom teeth are not causing pain, infection, or other problems, your dentist may recommend leaving them in place. Wisdom teeth that are not pulled out may need to be monitored. If problems occur later, your dentist may recommend pulling the wisdom teeth.
Pulling your wisdom teeth out unnecessarily can lead to other complications, as does every procedure. So, if your dentist does not recommend removing the teeth, you should leave them in place.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Removal." 

The wisdom teeth usually come in when you are between 17 and 21 years old. However, everyone’s different, and your wisdom teeth may show up earlier or later. However, if you do not have room for the wisdom teeth to grow in, they may be trapped under the gum, giving the illusion that you do not have any. Your dentist will be able to make this determination if you are unsure.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Removal." 

Your wisdom teeth are the rearmost teeth in your mouth. If your wisdom teeth grow through your gums, you will see one in each corner of your mouth, right behind your second molars. However, if there is no room in your mouth for your wisdom teeth, they may be trapped under your gums.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Removal." 

You may have pain at the extraction sites for one to two weeks after having your wisdom teeth removed. The pain might be worse if you needed a more complicated procedure. Your dentist may recommend taking a day or two off work or school. The discomfort should gradually improve in the days following the procedure. However, let your dentist know right away if you feel severe pain.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Removal." 

Most people have four wisdom teeth, but it is not uncommon to have a lower number. One study of American teenagers found that about 15% are missing at least one wisdom tooth. About 2% of teenagers were missing all four wisdom teeth. The reasons for these missing teeth are not entirely clear, but they may involve genetics.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Removal." 

It varies. Some wisdom teeth may be removed without needing to cut into the gums. Other wisdom teeth may be trapped under the gums, and some may need to be cut into smaller pieces before being removed. Depending on the procedure, wisdom tooth removal could take anywhere from a few minutes to over 20 minutes per tooth. Your dentist can explain how long your procedure may take.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Removal." 

Wisdom teeth may not seem very useful today, but they were helpful for early humans. This extra set of molars helped our early ancestors chew their diet of tough, uncooked foods. With the modern diet of softer, cooked foods, our jaws have become shorter, and there may not be enough room for wisdom teeth. Still, if your wisdom teeth come through correctly, they can help fulfill their original purpose — helping you chew.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Removal." 

The wisdom teeth are your third set of molars. Since they are the last teeth to appear in your mouth, there is not always room for them to grow correctly. As a result, the wisdom teeth may get stuck or emerge at an angle. Wisdom teeth that do not grow properly may cause dental problems, such as gum disease or infections, which is why they are often removed.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Removal." 

The wisdom teeth are your third set of molars. Since they are the last teeth to appear in your mouth, there is not always room for them to grow correctly. As a result, the wisdom teeth may get stuck or emerge at an angle. Wisdom teeth that do not grow properly may cause dental problems, such as gum disease or infections, which is why they are often removed.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Removal." 

The wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, are the last teeth to appear in the mouth. They generally appear after the other 28 adult teeth are in place. Often, this happens when people are in their late teens or early 20s.

Learn more in our blog article, "Wisdom Teeth Removal." 

While many Americans receive dental benefits through work or government assistance, we know that does not apply to everyone. If dental insurance is not an option for you, there are various resources at hand. These options may include non-profit clinics, public health departments, and dental schools.
Another option available is payment plans. Some dentists can accommodate patients without dental insurance by allowing monthly payments, rather than paying everything up front. If payment plans are not an option at your dentist's office, there may be free or low-cost clinics nearby.

Learn more in our blog article, "See a Dentist Without Insurance: Learn Your Options." 

A Dental Savings Plan is not insurance, which means you do not have to wait before receiving a service while insurance clears. Instead, a Dental Saving Plan is a membership program, which means you may get discounts from participating dentists for things like cleanings, x-rays, and a variety of other services.

Learn more in our blog article, "What is a Dental Savings Plan?"

Having your teeth cleaned at least twice a year is a great way to prevent issues from forming or getting worse. A routine dental visit typically includes an exam and cleaning. A standard exam and cleaning might cost you anywhere from $125 - $170.
Keep in mind; prices vary based on where you live and if you have insurance. Luckily, most plans tend to cover all the costs associated with preventative dental care.

Learn more in our blog article, "What is a Routine Dental Cleaning?" 

The cost of a tooth extraction may vary based on the difficulty of the procedure. For example, a simple extraction, which is performed on teeth that are fully visible above the gum line, generally costs around $160 to $215. However, if your dentist needs to remove gum tissue or bone to reach the tooth, the cost is higher: For these surgical extractions, the price may be between $285 and $555.

Learn more in our blog article, "What Is A Tooth Extraction?" 

A dental crown generally costs between $800 and $1,500, depending on the material used. Crowns made from composite resin tend to fall toward the lower end of the price range, while crowns made from porcelain or gold tend to be pricier.
As with most dental procedures, cost also depends on your location and your insurance plan.

Learn more in our blog article, "What are Dental Crowns?" 

It varies based on where you live, but you can generally expect to spend around $2,300 to $3,200 for a dental implant. The priciest part of the procedure is surgically implanting the implant post in your jawbone, which runs around $1,700 to $2,300. Then, for the artificial tooth affixed to the implant post, you may pay around $650 to $900.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Implants: Cost, Procedure & Types." 

The cost will vary based on the type of dental emergency. For example, if you have a cracked tooth, your dentist may recommend placing a crown. Depending on its material, a crown generally costs $800 to $1,500. Your dentist can explain the treatment options for your dental emergency and how much they may cost.

Learn more in our blog category, "Emergency Dental."

If you have a dental emergency, call your dentist right away. If you do not have a dentist, you can use The Smile Generation to find an emergency dentist in your area. If you cannot get a hold of your dentist, go to the emergency room, as they may be able to help with the pain until you can get in to see your dentist.

Learn more in our blog category, "Emergency Dental."

A dental emergency is an urgent dental problem that needs to be addressed immediately. Common dental emergencies include cracked teeth, knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, and objects lodged between the teeth. Other dental emergencies include a broken jaw or a bitten tongue that will not stop bleeding.

Learn more in our blog category, "Emergency Dental."

When you have a dental emergency, call your dentist right away. Most dentists offer same-day appointments for emergencies, and some provide after-hours services. If you have a dental emergency and cannot see your dentist, visit your local emergency room. While most hospitals are not equipped to treat dental problems, they may offer antibiotics or pain medicines to help you feel better until you see your dentist.

Learn more in our blog category, "Emergency Dental."

A fluoride treatment is a preventative measure against cavities, and the process of applying the fluoride to your teeth is the treatment. Fluoride itself is a mineral that helps prevent cavities and can reverse a cavity in early development.
The two most used fluoride treatments are topical and systemic:
Topical fluoride treatment requires fluoride to be applied to the tooth's surface. It is most common to have daily fluoride treatments using fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash. The fluoride treatments you receive at the dentist's office include a much higher concentration and are a good option if you are prone to cavities or have a history of oral health issues.
Systemic fluoride treatment requires the fluoride to be ingested. You can find drinking water supplemented with fluoride as well as fluoride supplements.

We recommend brushing your teeth for two minutes to help remove plaque from your teeth.
Despite this recommendation, most people do not brush this long. Instead, most fall somewhere between a 30 to 60-second brush, maybe because of busy schedules tempting us to shave off upwards of 90 seconds!
But why are those 90 extra seconds so important? For example, one dental study concluded that those who brush their teeth for two minutes, compared to 45 seconds, were able to remove 26% more plaque.

Learn more in our blog article, "Brushing Teeth: All You Need to Know." 

Flossing helps you remove plaque and food particles trapped between your teeth, where your toothbrush cannot reach. Cleaning these hard-to-reach tooth surfaces may help you reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Hygiene: Tips & Health Issues." 

Start with about 18 inches of floss and wind it around your middle fingers. Next, grip the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers. Then, gently guide the floss between your teeth. When the floss reaches the gum line, carefully floss around the gum line by curving the floss into a C-shape against the tooth. Then, gently rub the floss against the side of the tooth. Repeat this process for your other teeth. If you would like a demonstration of proper flossing technique, ask your dental hygienist.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Hygiene: Tips & Health Issues." 

It is up to you. The American Dental Association explains that either way is acceptable, as long as you brush and floss thoroughly. If you are currently brushing your teeth first and often forgetting to floss, consider reversing the order. Getting flossing out of the way first may help you prioritize this critical oral hygiene step.

Learn more in our blog article, "Brushing Teeth: All You Need to Know." 

Flossing is an essential part of your at-home oral hygiene routine. It helps you clean tooth surfaces you cannot reach with your toothbrush. Removing plaque and food particles between your teeth and along your gum line may help prevent gingivitis, also known as gum disease. Proper flossing may also help you reduce your risk of cavities.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Hygiene: Tips & Health Issues." 

The American Dental Association recommends flossing once per day. You can use traditional string floss or another interdental cleaner, such as floss picks or water flossers. Feel free to floss at a time that is convenient for you. For example, some people prefer to floss at night before going to sleep, while others floss first thing in the morning.

Learn more in our blog article, "Dental Hygiene: Tips & Health Issues." 

Your dental hygienist will start by examining your mouth for signs of cavities or other dental problems at your dental cleaning appointment. Then they will use small, metal tools to scrape plaque and tartar off your teeth. Professional flossing follows this thorough cleaning to remove plaque from between your teeth. Your dental hygienist may finish the cleaning by polishing your teeth and applying a fluoride treatment.

Learn more in our article, "What is a Dental Teeth Cleaning"

Yes. Professional dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. Plaque and tartar contribute to many dental health problems, including gum disease and tooth decay. Plus, a professional cleaning can effectively reduce stains on the surface of your teeth — leaving you with a whiter smile.

Learn more in our article, "What is a Dental Teeth Cleaning"

As a general rule, dentists may recommend getting your teeth cleaned once every six months, but you may need cleanings more or less frequently. For example, if you have poor oral health and are at risk of cavities or other dental problems, your dentist may want to see you once every three months. On the other hand, if you take good care of your teeth at home, your dentist may recommend cleanings as infrequently as once every two years.
Many insurances pay for two cleanings a year, along with a comprehensive exam. So, even if you do not have any concerns and good dental practices, you might still want to take advantage of the second cleaning.

Learn more in our article, "What is a Dental Teeth Cleaning"

Not long! A dental cleaning can usually be completed in around 30 minutes. During your cleaning, if other issues arise, it could change how long it takes. In some cases, your dentist may recommend that you make a follow-up appointment for further treatments.

Learn more in our article, "What is a Dental Teeth Cleaning"

Routine dental cleaning generally costs between $125 and $170, depending on where you live. The cost may be much lower if you have dental insurance. Many plans cover the total cost of preventive care. Check your plan details to determine what coverage you have for dental cleanings.

Learn more in our article, "What is a Dental Teeth Cleaning"

Invisalign teeth aligners are similar to the cost of traditional braces. However, your price may vary based on your unique orthodontic needs.

Learn more in our blog article, "What Are Clear/Invisible Aligners and Why Get Them?" 

Teeth aligners are another cosmetic alternative to traditional metal braces. There are a series of custom-made, clear plastic trays that fit on top of your teeth. You will wear each tray for around one to three weeks before moving on to the next tray. Over time, the trays gently shift your teeth into their ideal positions. There are many brands of teeth aligners on the market, including Invisalign.
In some cases, where there is severe misalignment, your Orthodontist may recommend traditional metal braces. It is always best to check with your provider to see what option works best for your teeth and the type of dental treatment needed.

Learn more in our blog article, "What Are Clear/Invisible Aligners and Why Get Them?" 

The cost of braces may vary based on several factors, including your age and the complexity of your tooth or jaw problems. For adolescents, the average cost of orthodontic treatment ranges from around $2,900 to $5,450. Braces for adults tend to be slightly more expensive, with average costs ranging from around $3,250 to $5,550. The range is broad because everyone’s orthodontic needs are different. Ask your Orthodontist for an estimate of how much your treatment will cost.
Since braces can be expensive, ask your Orthodontist about installments. Many Orthodontists will allow you to pay off your braces over the course of treatment. Also, check to see if your insurance will pay some or all the costs.

Learn more in our blog article, "Metal Braces." 

You can get braces at any age, as long as your teeth are healthy. If you are interested in braces for your child, starting at a younger age — when their body is still growing — may help you achieve optimal results. Orthodontic treatment often starts when children are between seven and 14 years old. These are the years when most of the baby teeth are replaced with adult teeth.
As an adult, you may be self-conscious about getting braces. Traditional braces are made of metal, but if your dentist recommends them, there are also clear braces or aligners, so you do not feel like everyone is staring at your mouth.

Learn more in our blog article, "Braces for Kids: When to Get Them?" 

Invisalign is a well-known brand of clear dental aligners. The company notes that Invisalign treatment generally costs about the same as traditional braces.
The cost of traditional braces varies: For adolescents, orthodontic treatment starts at an average of $2,900, while braces for adults, start at around $3,250. If you are interested in Invisalign, ask your orthodontist for a personalized estimate.

Learn more in our blog article, "What Are Clear/Invisible Aligners and Why Get Them?" 

Both types of braces can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile, but there are some key differences between them.
Metal braces are noticeable when you smile or talk, while clear braces have a more natural tooth-colored appearance. For more complex tooth and bite issues, orthodontists may recommend metal braces.
Ceramic braces, as well as clear aligners like Invisalign, may not be appropriate for all orthodontic problems.

Learn more in our blog article, "Invisalign vs. Braces." 

Both types of braces can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile, but there are some key differences between them.
Metal braces are noticeable when you smile or talk, while clear braces have a more natural tooth-colored appearance. For more complex tooth and bite issues, orthodontists may recommend metal braces.
Ceramic braces, as well as clear aligners like Invisalign, may not be appropriate for all orthodontic problems.

Clear braces, also known as ceramic braces, are a cosmetic alternative to traditional metal braces. The brackets are made of tooth-colored ceramic for a more natural appearance. The term “clear braces” may also be used to describe clear aligners, such as Invisalign.

Learn more in our blog article, "What Are Clear/Invisible Aligners and Why Get Them?" 

Retainers help keep your teeth in their ideal positions after your orthodontic treatment ends. Your orthodontist may bond a thin wire to the back of your teeth to hold them in place. Or, they may recommend a removable retainer that you can put in and take out on your own. Removable retainers may be made of wire and plastic, or they may be clear trays that fit over your teeth.

No matter the type of retainer you have, you need to make sure you keep it clean, just as you do your teeth. Otherwise, debris can build up inside of your retainer and cause things such as bad breath. It also allows bacteria to form in the mouth, which can cause other dental issues.

Learn more in our blog article, "Should I Wear My Retainer & Do Retainers Hurt?" 

Getting braces on is a fairly simple procedure. Your orthodontist will cement the brackets onto each tooth with a special adhesive and thread an orthodontic wire through the brackets. Sometimes, the wire is held in place by clips in the brackets themselves, but in other cases, your orthodontist will attach tiny rubber bands. The whole process only takes about 90 to 120 minutes.
Once your braces are put on, you will be required to go in regularly and have the braces adjusted. This will help to slowly move your teeth into their proper place. During these follow-up appointments, you may have new bands or replacement brackets put on.

Learn more in our blog article, "Types of Braces: Clear vs. Metal vs. Ceramic & More." 

The best type of braces for your child will vary based on their unique dental situation. For some kids, traditional metal braces may be the right choice. Other kids may be good candidates for clear teeth aligners. Talk to your child’s orthodontist to learn more about the best braces for their needs.

Learn more in our blog article, "Metal Braces." 

The desire for straight teeth is not just a modern phenomenon. Some of the earliest evidence of orthodontic treatment dates back to the ancient Romans when medical writer Aulus Cornelius Celsus described moving teeth with finger pressure. The orthodontic pioneer Dr. Edward H. Angle introduced his edgewise appliance — what we now call braces — in 1928.

Learn more in our blog article, "Metal Braces."

Braces have two parts: brackets and wires. Brackets are metallic squares that are cemented onto your teeth. Most of the time, brackets are placed on the front of your teeth, but it is sometimes possible to place them on the backs of the teeth. The wires are threaded through the brackets and place gentle forces on your teeth to guide them into their ideal positions.
Typically, over several months or years, braces can slowly move the teeth to correct a variety of issues. These issues include things such as crossbites, overbites, or underbites. Braces are especially helpful in cases where your bite is causing headaches or other issues. They can also be used to fix the aesthetics of your smile, such as excessive gaps or spaces between the teeth.

Learn more in our blog article, "Metal Braces."

Orthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on diagnosing and treating teeth that are not aligned properly. A dentist who specializes in orthodontics is called an orthodontist. On top of completing dental school, they complete two or more years of specialized training in orthodontics, bringing their required schooling to almost 11 years.
The purpose of your Orthodontist is to provide you with long-term solutions to your dental issues. This may mean fixing a crossbite, recess, or jaw alignment.

Learn more in our blog category, "Orthodontics."

Orthodontic treatment is used to fix teeth that are not aligned properly. This may involve straightening teeth that are crooked or crowded. However, orthodontic treatment is not just about creating nice-looking smiles. It may also involve fixing jaw alignment problems, such as overbites or underbites.
Most commonly, an orthodontist fixes crooked and crowded teeth and excessive tooth gaps or spacing. They also work to adjust underbites, overbites, as well as crossbites.

Learn more in our blog category, "Orthodontics."

Everyone is different, and your teeth are no different. Some people have large teeth, and others have small teeth. If your teeth are smaller than the average, this is called microdontia.

Microdontia is genetic; however, there are other known causes. For instance, if your front teeth are smaller than most people’s, it could result from teeth grinding. In addition, chemotherapy and other health conditions or syndromes can result in microdontia.

Learn more in our blog article, "Large & Small Teeth: How to Fix Them." 

Unfortunately, there are some foods you need to avoid while wearing braces. This is because there are foods known to loosen and break the brackets that are bonded to your teeth.

If you want to avoid breaking these brackets, you should avoid hard and chewy food. For example, hard nuts, candy, and ice can break the brackets. Popcorn, corn on the cob, raw carrots, and celery can also loosen and break your brackets. Gum, particularly the kind with sugar, should also be avoided because it can easily get stuck in your braces and is particularly hard to remove.

Learn more in our blog article, "Braces Cleaning: Tips and Care Routine." 

Unfortunately, there are some foods you need to avoid while wearing braces. This is because there are foods known to loosen and break the brackets that are bonded to your teeth.

If you want to avoid breaking these brackets, you should avoid hard and chewy food. For example, hard nuts, candy, and ice can break the brackets. Popcorn, corn on the cob, raw carrots, and celery can also loosen and break your brackets. Gum, particularly the kind with sugar, should also be avoided because it can easily get stuck in your braces and is particularly hard to remove.

Learn more in our blog article, "Braces Cleaning: Tips and Care Routine." 

Neglecting to take care of your braces can lead to permanent damage to your teeth and gums. For instance, not taking the time to do proper braces cleaning can cause gum disease and tooth decay.

While it can be treated, another consequence of neglecting your braces care is yellowing teeth. Because there are brackets on your teeth, it is more difficult to clean your teeth. If you do not take the extra time to clean your braces, you might see plaque buildup turning to tarter.

Learn more in our blog article, "Braces Cleaning: Tips and Care Routine." 

Because a child’s teeth fall out and are replaced by adult teeth, you may think orthodontic treatment is not necessary. However, lack of treatment can cause severe and sometimes painful consequences later in your child’s development.

For instance, braces can help treat crowding and misalignment, which can create pain in everyday activities, such as eating. This is because issues such as misaligned teeth can lead to uneven wear of the teeth, clenching and grinding, and jaw pain. And jaw pain can lead to head and neck pain.

While your child may not have considerable pain now, these issues left untreated can become severe over time.

Routine dental cleaning generally costs between $125 and $170, depending on where you live. The cost may be much lower if you have dental insurance. Many plans cover the total cost of preventive care. Check your plan details to determine what coverage you have for dental cleanings.

Learn more in our blog article, "Braces for Kids: When to Get Them?" 

Braces are not just about aesthetics. Getting your child braces can correct current dental issues and combat teeth and jaw issues that might occur later without braces.

Braces can correct several oral problems, including misalignment, overcrowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and open bites. If your child has difficulty eating or talking, visiting an orthodontist may also present some solutions, making everyday tasks significantly easier.

Your orthodontist can spot potential issues that may arise as adult teeth start to come in. By taking your child to see an orthodontist early, you can prevent these issues from ever occurring by having braces put on. 

Learn more in our blog article, "Braces for Kids: When to Get Them?" 

Teeth aligners are another cosmetic alternative to traditional metal braces. There are a series of custom-made, clear plastic trays that fit on top of your teeth. You will wear each tray for around one to three weeks before moving on to the next tray. Over time, the trays gently shift your teeth into their ideal positions. There are many brands of teeth aligners on the market, including Invisalign.

 In some cases, where there is severe misalignment, your Orthodontist may recommend traditional metal braces. It is always best to check with your provider to see what option works best for your teeth and the type of dental treatment needed.

Learn more in our blog article, "Metal Braces." 

The cost of braces may vary based on several factors, including your age and the complexity of your tooth or jaw problems. For adolescents, the average cost of orthodontic treatment ranges from around $2,900 to $5,450. Braces for adults tend to be slightly more expensive, with average costs ranging from around $3,250 to $5,550. The range is broad because everyone’s orthodontic needs are different. Ask your Orthodontist for an estimate of how much your treatment will cost.
Since braces can be expensive, ask your Orthodontist about installments. Many Orthodontists will allow you to pay off your braces over the course of treatment. Also, check to see if your insurance will pay some or all the costs.

Learn more in our blog article, "Metal Braces."     
    

You can get braces at any age, as long as your teeth are healthy. If you are interested in braces for your child, starting at a younger age — when their body is still growing — may help you achieve optimal results. Orthodontic treatment often starts when children are between seven and 14 years old. These are the years when most of the baby teeth are replaced with adult teeth.
As an adult, you may be self-conscious about getting braces. Traditional braces are made of metal, but if your dentist recommends them, there are also clear braces or aligners, so you do not feel like everyone is staring at your mouth.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Plaque: What It Is & How to Remove It."     

Both types of braces can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile, but there are some key differences between them. 
Metal braces are noticeable when you smile or talk, while clear braces have a more natural tooth-colored appearance. For more complex tooth and bite issues, orthodontists may recommend metal braces. 
Ceramic braces, as well as clear aligners like Invisalign, may not be appropriate for all orthodontic problems. 

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Plaque: What It Is & How to Remove It." 

Both types of braces can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile, but there are some key differences between them. 
Metal braces are noticeable when you smile or talk, while clear braces have a more natural tooth-colored appearance. For more complex tooth and bite issues, orthodontists may recommend metal braces. 
Ceramic braces, as well as clear aligners like Invisalign, may not be appropriate for all orthodontic problems. 

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Plaque: What It Is & How to Remove It."     

Clear braces, also known as ceramic braces, are a cosmetic alternative to traditional metal braces. The brackets are made of tooth-colored ceramic for a more natural appearance. The term “clear braces” may also be used to describe clear aligners, such as Invisalign. 

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Plaque: What It Is & How to Remove It." 

Retainers help keep your teeth in their ideal positions after your orthodontic treatment ends. Your orthodontist may bond a thin wire to the back of your teeth to hold them in place. Or, they may recommend a removable retainer that you can put in and take out on your own. Removable retainers may be made of wire and plastic, or they may be clear trays that fit over your teeth. 
No matter the type of retainer you have, you need to make sure you keep it clean, just as you do your teeth. Otherwise, debris can build up inside of your retainer and cause things such as bad breath. It also allows bacteria to form in the mouth, which can cause other dental issues.

Learn more in our blog article, "Tooth Plaque: What It Is & How to Remove It." 

Getting braces on is a fairly simple procedure. Your orthodontist will cement the brackets onto each tooth with a special adhesive and thread an orthodontic wire through the brackets. Sometimes, the wire is held in place by clips in the brackets themselves, but in other cases, your orthodontist will attach tiny rubber bands. The whole process only takes about 90 to 120 minutes. 

Once your braces are put on, you will be required to go in regularly and have the braces adjusted. This will help to slowly move your teeth into their proper place. During these follow-up appointments, you may have new bands or replacement brackets put on.

Learn more in our blog article, "Why are Teeth Yellow: Causes & Prevention."

The best type of braces for your child will vary based on their unique dental situation. For some kids, traditional metal braces may be the right choice. Other kids may be good candidates for clear teeth aligners. Talk to your child’s orthodontist to learn more about the best braces for their needs.

Learn more in our blog article, "Why are Teeth Yellow: Causes & Prevention."

If you are interested in braces, make an appointment with an orthodontist. Smile Generation makes it easy to find an orthodontist in your area. The process of getting braces starts with a consultation to determine if you could benefit from orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist may recommend a treatment plan that involves braces or another type of appliance.
If you have an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or simply want the spacing between your teeth fixed, your dentist may refer you to an Orthodontist to start the process of getting braces.

Learn more in our blog article, "Why are Teeth Yellow: Causes & Prevention."

The desire for straight teeth is not just a modern phenomenon. Some of the earliest evidence of orthodontic treatment dates back to the ancient Romans when medical writer Aulus Cornelius Celsus described moving teeth with finger pressure. The orthodontic pioneer Dr. Edward H. Angle introduced his edgewise appliance — what we now call braces — in 1928.

Learn more in our blog article, "Why are Teeth Yellow: Causes & Prevention."

Orthodontic treatment is used to fix teeth that are not aligned properly. This may involve straightening teeth that are crooked or crowded. However, orthodontic treatment is not just about creating nice-looking smiles. It may also involve fixing jaw alignment problems, such as overbites or underbites.
Most commonly, an orthodontist fixes crooked and crowded teeth and excessive tooth gaps or spacing. They also work to adjust underbites, overbites, as well as crossbites.

Learn more in our blog article, "Sensitive Teeth: Causes & Treatment." 

Orthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on diagnosing and treating teeth that are not aligned properly. A dentist who specializes in orthodontics is called an orthodontist. On top of completing dental school, they complete two or more years of specialized training in orthodontics, bringing their required schooling to almost 11 years.
The purpose of your Orthodontist is to provide you with long-term solutions to your dental issues. This may mean fixing a crossbite, recess, or jaw alignment.

Learn more in our blog article, "Sensitive Teeth: Causes & Treatment." 

Braces have two parts: brackets and wires. Brackets are metallic squares that are cemented onto your teeth. Most of the time, brackets are placed on the front of your teeth, but it is sometimes possible to place them on the backs of the teeth. The wires are threaded through the brackets and place gentle forces on your teeth to guide them into their ideal positions. 

Typically, over several months or years, braces can slowly move the teeth to correct a variety of issues. These issues include things such as crossbites, overbites, or underbites. Braces are especially helpful in cases where your bite is causing headaches or other issues. They can also be used to fix the aesthetics of your smile, such as excessive gaps or spaces between the teeth.

Learn more in our blog article, "Why are Teeth Yellow: Causes & Prevention."

Orthodontic treatment relies on appliances to gently move teeth into their ideal positions. Braces are the most common appliance. Some orthodontic problems can be treated with clear aligners. In some cases, such as when the teeth are overcrowded, removing teeth may be a necessary orthodontic procedure.
Orthodontic procedures can be used to help patients who have difficulty chewing or biting, speaking, or closing their lips. Additionally, Orthodontists can perform procedures necessary to prevent cheek and upper roof biting as well as grinding and clenching teeth. They can also fix protruding, broken, crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth, jaw shifting, protrusion, or recess and help give patients asymmetrical faces.

Learn more in our blog category, "Orthodontics."

You should tell your dentist that you are on birth control because most types of birth control change your hormone levels, which can affect your oral health. In the first few months after a woman takes birth control, her progesterone levels will usually rise, which can cause inflamed gums. Birth control can also decrease the levels of natural estrogen in your system, which can inflame your jaw joint.

Some contraceptives lower the effectiveness of antibiotics, so when your dentist needs to prescribe antibiotics, they should be aware of the fact that you're taking contraceptives so they can accurately gauge the dosage to give you.

Interested in learning more? Check out our blog article "The Impact of Your Birth Control on Your Oral Health."

Most types of birth control affect your hormones, and hormones affect your oral health. Fluctuation of your hormone levels caused by contraceptives can have a number of side effects in your mouth, such as:

• Swollen gums

• Gum recession

• Dry socket

Studies have suggested that injectable birth control has a more severe effect on your oral health than other forms.

For more information, check out our blog article "The Impact of Your Birth Control on Your Oral Health."

Most types of birth control affect your hormone levels, which can cause a range of side effects in your oral health, such as swollen gums, gum recession, and dry socket. While you are taking birth control, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting a dentist twice a year for check-ups. You should let your dentist know that you are taking birth control so they can adjust their care to better serve your needs.

To learn more, read our blog article "The Impact of Your Birth Control on Your Oral Health."

Most types of birth control affect your hormones, including birth control pills, the Depo-Provera shot, the birth control ring, the intrauterine ring, the patch, and the implant. Fluctuating hormone levels can cause issues with your oral health as a side effect, including swollen gums, gum recession, and dry sockets. Injected birth control has been shown to have a greater effect on your mouth than other kinds of birth control.

Non-hormonal birth control, however, does not affect your hormones and has no effect on your oral health. The downside is that this type of birth control is often not as effective.

To learn more, read our blog article "The Impact of Your Birth Control on Your Oral Health."

It usually takes about three to four weeks for a baby tooth to reattach after coming loose due to trauma, though it can take up to eight weeks. However, if the pulp of the tooth has been damaged and no blood is reaching the tooth, the tooth will never reattach. In this case, you should take your child to a dentist to perform a root canal.

Find out more in our blog article "Can a Loose Baby Tooth Reattach Itself?"

Are some forms of birth control better for my oral health than others?

Yes, most forms of birth control affect your hormone levels, which can affect your oral health. Among other side effects, hormonal birth control can cause gum recession, swollen gums, and dry socket. However, non-hormonal birth control does not affect your hormones, and therefore it has no effect on your oral health. The downside is that some types of non-hormonal birth control are not as effective at preventing pregnancy.

Find out more by reading our blog article "The Impact of Your Birth Control on Your Oral Health."

You should not attempt to push a baby tooth back into your child's socket. The root may have been exposed to dirt or bacteria that could cause an infection in the adult tooth lying below the surface of the gums. Instead, you should take your child along with the tooth to a dentist to decide the best course of action for your child's long-term oral health.

Learn more in our blog article "Can a Loose Baby Tooth Reattach Itself?"

When a baby tooth is knocked loose but not completely out, there is a chance it can reattach itself over the course of three or four weeks, though sometimes the process can take as long as eight weeks. However, if the tooth's pulp was also damaged, then it is likely that the tooth will not reattach itself, and a dentist may be needed to perform a root canal.

Find out more information by reading our blog article "Can a Loose Baby Tooth Reattach Itself?"

Teeth grinding is called bruxism, and it has a number of potential causes in children, including misaligned teeth, stress, or as a side effect of other disorders, such as earaches, dehydration, sleep disorders, and nutritional deficiencies. Babies can also grind their teeth as a response to teething pain.

To find out more, check out our blog article "Mouth Guard for Kids: Sports and Sleeping."

Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, usually goes away on its own. More than half of kids with bruxism stop grinding their teeth by the age of 13. You should take your child to a dentist if you believe that bruxism has become an issue. They may recommend a mouthguard to wear at night, which stops teeth grinding and helps preserve your child's teeth.

To learn more, check out our blog article "Mouth Guard for Kids: Sports and Sleeping."

Yes, children can wear mouth guards for a variety of reasons. Mouth guards help protect your child's teeth during sports and other athletic activities, especially those where an impact to the child's face is a probability. Mouth guards can also help protect your child's teeth from night-time teeth grinding.

To learn more, check out our blog article "Mouth Guard for Kids: Sports and Sleeping."

Mouth guards are not "one size fits all." When selecting a mouth guard for your child, be sure you are selecting a child's size mouth guard to prevent discomfort. An ideal mouthguard should fit comfortably and not inhibit the child's speaking or breathing.

Find out more in our blog article "Mouth Guard for Kids: Sports and Sleeping."

Mouthguards protect your teeth from impacts, so they can help your child preserve their teeth while playing sports or enjoying other outdoor activities where they might get struck in the face. Mouthguards also protect your child's teeth from damage caused by teeth grinding, also called bruxism. Depending on your child's activities, you may want to ask your pediatric dentist whether a mouthguard could help your child.

Learn more in our blog article "Mouth Guard for Kids: Sports and Sleeping."

Sugar leaves a thin film over the enamel of your teeth called plaque. This plaque will soften the enamel until it starts to get worn away, allowing decay to set in. Saliva cannot get rid of plaque, so the only way to remove it is to brush twice a day, floss daily, and get regular cleanings at your dentist.

For more info, check out our blog article "How Eating Too Much Sugar Can Harm Teeth."

Tooth decay can set in quickly, but it happens in stages. The first stage is the appearance of cavities. Your dentist will treat cavities with fillings or a crown. The second stage is dentin decay. At this stage, the softer layer of the tooth below the enamel is affected, exposing the pulp, which is where the tooth's nerves and blood vessels are. In the third stage, severe tooth decay sets in, which may result in the tooth's root getting an infection, called an abscess. Your dentist may need to treat this with a root canal or remove the tooth completely.

For more info, check out our blog article "How Eating Too Much Sugar Can Harm Teeth."

You can help remove plaque as it develops by brushing and flossing regularly, especially after eating foods high in sugar. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush using toothpaste that contains fluoride. You can also remineralize the enamel of your teeth by chewing sugar-free gum and eating foods that are high in fiber and calcium.  

For more info, check out our blog article "How Eating Too Much Sugar Can Harm Teeth."

Yes, sugar leaves a thin film over the enamel of your teeth called plaque, which softens the enamel of your teeth over time. If left unchecked, plaque can cause tooth decay as your softened tooth enamel gets worn away, exposing the more vulnerable parts of your tooth underneath. Eating a diet that is low in sugar and practicing proper oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly, can help reduce the amount of plaque that builds up on your teeth.

For more info, check out our blog article "How Eating Too Much Sugar Can Harm Teeth."

While studies have suggested that vaping is not as bad for your oral health as regular cigarettes, e-cigarettes still contain nicotine. Nicotine stains teeth, lowers your blood circulation, and increases the amount of plaque and bacteria build-up in your mouth, all of which puts you at a higher risk for tooth decay and other oral health issues. So, while vaping may not damage your teeth as quickly as smoking, it is not safe for your teeth.

Learn more in our blog article "E-Cigarettes: Is Vaping Bad for Your Teeth?"

Unlike regular cigarettes, vaping does not introduce smoke or tar into your mouth, so the negative effects of vaping are not as bad as cigarette smoking. However, that does not mean that vaping is safe for your teeth. E-cigarettes still contain nicotine and other chemicals that have a similar effect, potentially leading to cavities, periodontal disease, stroke, heart attack, and oral cancer. While e-cigarettes might not be as dangerous as regular cigarettes, the full effects of vaping are still being studied. It'd important to check with your dentist regularly to help identify any issues that it may cause.

Learn more in our blog article "E-Cigarettes: Is Vaping Bad for Your Teeth?"

It is not possible to erase the damage done to our teeth by vaping. However, maintaining good oral health habits can help prevent tooth decay from developing even faster. Drink water immediately after vaping to rehydrate your mouth and flush away lingering bacteria. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and make regular trips to your dentist to address any oral health issues as they develop.

Learn more in our blog article "E-Cigarettes: Is Vaping Bad for Your Teeth?"

Brushing your teeth after vaping will not reverse any damage to your teeth that the nicotine and other chemicals caused. However, it is still important to maintain good oral health habits if you choose to vape so that tooth decay and other oral health problems do not develop even more quickly. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and see your dentist regularly to protect your teeth as much as possible.

Learn more in our blog article "E-Cigarettes: Is Vaping Bad for Your Teeth?"

Yes, vaping is damaging to your gums as well as your teeth. Vaping reduces the circulation of blood in your mouth by causing the blood vessels to constrict. When this happens, the parts of your gums that no longer get oxygen from your blood cells will start to die off, and your gums will start to shrink. Studies suggest that flavor e-liquids in e-cigarettes can also cause inflammation in your gums. Ultimately, vaping leads to gum recession, gum disease, and tooth loss. Be sure to visit your dentist regularly to examine your gums for signs of damage.

Learn more in our blog article "E-Cigarettes: Is Vaping Bad for Your Teeth?"

Yes! Studies have shown that tongue scrapers provide many benefits to your oral health. They help remove the bacteria that cause bad breath and other oral health issues. They can also remove the dead cells and food debris that coat your taste buds, letting you better appreciate the flavors of the food you eat. The benefits of daily tongue scaping make it a useful addition to your daily oral care regimen.

Check out our blog article "Tongue Scraper Facts: How To & Benefits" for more information. 

No, when used properly, tongue scrapers should not cause any damage to your tongue. As long as you be gentle and do not apply too much pressure, your tongue will be safe. In fact, studies have shown that daily tongue scraping can help improve your sense of taste by removing the dead cells and food debris that get in between you and your food.

Check out our blog article "Tongue Scraper Facts: How To & Benefits" for more information. 

Studies show that brushing and scraping your tongue both have proven benefits to keeping your tongue healthy and clean. However, scraping proved to have a larger impact in improving your sense of taste by removing the dead cells and food particles that mask your taste buds. So, while either practice is good, you should consider adding a tongue scraper to your daily oral health regimen.

Check out our blog article "Tongue Scraper Facts: How To & Benefits" for more information. 

Just as it is possible to damage your gums by brushing too hard, it is possible to damage your tongue by applying too much force on your tongue scraper. You should instead use your tongue scraper gently but firmly to enjoy the benefits of a clean and healthy tongue without causing any damage.

Check out our blog article "Tongue Scraper Facts: How To & Benefits" for more information. 

Your teeth will not recover from the damage caused by smoking all by themselves. However, you can address the effects of smoking by making regular trips to your dentist to remove plaque, treat cavities, and check for signs of gum disease and other issues. You can also get your teeth professionally whitened to remove the noticeable yellow stains caused by cigarette smoke.

To learn more, read our blog article "Smokers Teeth: The Effects on Oral Health."

Smoking damages your teeth by reducing your gums' ability to heal itself, causing your gums to shrink and expose more of your teeth to cavity-causing elements. This combination of effects puts smokers at an increased risk of both periodontal disease and tooth decay. When smokers lose teeth, their gum disease gives them a higher risk of dental implants being placed unsuccessfully. Tar and nicotine in cigarette smoke will also stain teeth enamel into an unhealthy and unsightly yellow color.

To learn more, read our blog article "Smokers Teeth: The Effects on Oral Health."

Smoking is bad for your teeth and gums, but you can reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth loss by practicing good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily. It is vitally important for smokers to make regular visits to their dentist to remove plaque, fight cavities, and address any signs of gum disease. However, the best way to prevent damage to your oral health from smoking is to quit.

To learn more, read our blog article "Smokers Teeth: The Effects on Oral Health."

Just like any other stain, tooth stains do not go away on their own, so even after you quit smoking, the stains that the cigarette smoke left behind will stay forever unless you apply a tooth whitening treatment. You can purchase teeth whitening kits over the counter at your local drug or grocery store. However, you can also get professional tooth whitening treatments at your dentist for more stubborn stains.

To learn more, read our blog article "Smokers Teeth: The Effects on Oral Health."

Yes, it is possible for your gums to heal once you quit smoking. Studies have shown that quitting smoking will reduce your risk of periodontal disease and gum disease that is already in progress. You can also take advantage of nonsurgical gum disease treatments at your local dentist to further improve the health of your gums.

To learn more, read our blog article "Smokers Teeth: The Effects on Oral Health."

Dairy products contain high levels of calcium, which makes your teeth and bones stronger, as well as casein, which also helps strengthen your tooth enamel. Other foods that are good for your teeth are eggs, fish, and poultry. These lean proteins are high in phosphorus, which is good for teeth enamel, and low in sugar, which causes tooth decay. Eating plenty of these foods on top of practicing good oral hygiene habits should keep your teeth healthy and strong.

Learn more in our blog article "Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth."

Some foods are naturally worse for your teeth than others because they contain sugar, starch, acid, or other substances that can damage or stain your tooth enamel. Some examples include:

• Alcohol
• Bread
• Carbonated drinks
• Citrus fruits
• Sour candy

Learn more in our blog article "Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth."

There are several types of food that can keep your teeth bright and reduce your risk of staining. Strawberries and watermelons contain malic acid, which naturally bleaches your teeth and fight stains. Pineapples break down the pellicle layer that coats your teeth, which is where stains reside. Drinking plenty of water is another way to reduce your risk of teeth staining because it helps wash food particles out of your mouth and reduce the time they have to cause stains.

Learn more in our blog article "Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth."

In addition to maintaining good oral hygiene habits, you can keep your teeth healthy and strong by eating foods that are good for your teeth. Dairy products contain calcium and casein, which both help strength your tooth enamel. Sources of lean protein such as poultry, fish, and eggs are high in phosphorous and low in sugar, which will help strengthen your tooth enamel and do not contribute to tooth decay.

 Learn more in our blog article "Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth."

Water is the best beverage to keep your teeth healthy because it flushes away food particles that stain and damage your tooth enamel over time. Milk is another great drink for your teeth because it contains high levels of calcium and casein, which help keep your teeth enamel strong.

Learn more in our blog article "Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth."

Bacteria in your mouth breaks down the sugar and carbohydrates you eat into acids, which can weaken your tooth enamel. Fluoride helps slow and reverse this damage by strengthening and rebuilding tooth enamel in a process called remineralization. This process also helps keep your teeth whiter by building up the white enamel of your teeth and preventing the darker dentin beneath from getting exposed.

Find out more in our blog article "Best Ways to Add Fluoride to Your Life."

Yes, fluoride helps make your teeth whiter by rebuilding the healthy white enamel of your teeth in a process called remineralization. This can prevent the darker dentin beneath your tooth enamel from getting exposed, making your teeth look brighter and whiter.

Find out more in our blog article "Best Ways to Add Fluoride to Your Life."

Fluoride occurs naturally in the environment and is found within your own body. But to make sure you get enough fluoride to keep your teeth healthy, eat foods high in fluoride and use products containing fluoride. Foods like grapes, fruit, vegetables, seafood, coffee, and tea are all high in fluoride. You can also try fluoride mouth rinse, fluoride supplements, fluoride gel and foam, and fluoride varnish. Tap water can also contain fluoride. Most importantly, make sure your toothpaste contains fluoride.

Find out more in our blog article "Best Ways to Add Fluoride to Your Life."

You don't need to get all of your fluoride from toothpaste and other fluoride treatments. Some foods are naturally high in fluoride. Eat the following as part of a balanced and nutritious diet to help keep your teeth healthy and strong:

• Grapes and raisins
• Other fruits
• Spinach
• Potatoes
• Seafood
• Coffee
• Tea

Find out more in our blog article "Best Ways to Add Fluoride to Your Life."

Yes, many cities add fluoride to their tap water to help keep residents' teeth strong. You can drink fluoridated tap water safely to help you get a healthy amount of fluoride in your diet. If you are curious about whether your local tap water is fluoridated, most states offer this information online.

Find out more in our blog article "Best Ways to Add Fluoride to Your Life."

Yes, stress is not only bad for your mental health but also for your oral health. Stress often causes people to overindulge in foods that are bad for your teeth, such as sugary sweets, and it also can make people skip their dental appointments. But stress itself has a direct impact on your mouth as well, causing problems that include:

• Teeth grinding
• Dry mouth
• Canker sores
• Mouth ulcers
• TMJ
• Burning mouth syndrome

Curious to learn more? Check out our blog article "Effects of Stress on Your Teeth and Oral Health."

Stress can have a negative impact on your oral health in a variety of ways. People experiencing stress and anxiety commonly neglect their oral hygiene regimen, which can lead to tooth decay, gum issues, and other problems. Stress can also directly cause oral health issues such as:

·       Cold sores

·       Mouth ulcers

·       Tooth grinding

·       Jaw pain

·       Dry mouth

Curious to learn more? Check out our blog article "Effects of Stress on Your Teeth and Oral Health."

Yes, stress can indirectly and directly cause tooth decay. When people feel stress, they tend to crave unhealthy foods that are high in sugar, which can cause tooth decay as saliva breaks down the sugar into acids that eat away at tooth enamel. A dry mouth is another symptom of stress, which allows harmful bacteria to multiply in your mouth and accelerate tooth decay. It is therefore important to stay vigilant about your oral hygiene during times of high stress to minimize the damage.

Curious to learn more? Check out our blog article "Effects of Stress on Your Teeth and Oral Health."

Yes, stress is a risk factor in the development of gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease. To maintain healthy gums, it is important to drink plenty of water, brush twice a day, and floss daily to maintain your oral health and prevent the development of gum inflammation.

Curious to learn more? Check out our blog article "Effects of Stress on Your Teeth and Oral Health."

Yes, anxiety can lead to dry mouth, which allows bacteria to accumulate in the mouth and cause oral health problems such as gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. It is important to maintain healthy oral hygiene habits during times of stress so that gum disease does not give you an extra problem to worry about!

Curious to learn more? Check out our blog article "Effects of Stress on Your Teeth and Oral Health."

Your oral health will be significantly changed during pregnancy. It is common for pregnant women to experience tooth sensitivity and pain as well as bleeding gums. Gum disease has been linked to negative birth outcomes such as low birth weight and preterm labor, so it is vitally important for pregnant women to maintain their oral health through healthy oral hygiene, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily, as well as regular trips to the dentist.

Interested in learning more? Read our blog article "Women’s Oral Health at all Life Stages."

Contraceptives can have a number of side effects on your oral health. Studies show that birth control can cause gum inflammation, which can lead to gingivitis and gum disease, though newer medications have recently been developed to minimize the risk. Birth control pills can also lead to TMJ disorders due to the decrease they cause in natural estrogen levels. It is important to stay aware of your oral health while on birth control, maintain healthy oral hygiene, and take regular trips to your dentist.

Interested in learning more? Read our blog article "Women’s Oral Health at all Life Stages."

Hormonal changes during menopause can affect your oral health. Dry mouth is a common symptom during menopause. An absence of saliva in the mouth allows bacteria to build up, which weakens your tooth enamel. Women also frequently experience sensitive teeth, tooth pain, gum recession, and a burning sensation in the mouth and tongue called Burning Mouth Syndrome. While these oral health issues are just a few of the changes that will occur during menopause, it is important to pay close attention to them and maintain your oral health regimen to avoid the worst effects.

 Interested in learning more? Read our blog article "Women’s Oral Health at all Life Stages."

Some birth control pills have been shown to increase your chances of developing inflammation in the gums, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. However, more recent medications carry a decreased risk because of their lower doses of hormones. Investigate the medications you take when getting on a birth control regimen. It is also important to pay attention to any discomfort you are feeling in your mouth while you are taking any medication, including birth control. An exam with your dentist could uncover any issues in your oral health caused by your prescriptions.

Interested in learning more? Read our blog article "Women’s Oral Health at all Life Stages."

Pregnancy will affect your oral health in a variety of ways, so it is important to maintain a regular brushing schedule using fluoride toothpaste. A diet high in vitamin C will help reduce any issues with swollen gums. After experiencing morning sickness, rinse your mouth out with water to wash away any lingering stomach acid. Although you may want to brush your teeth right away, it is actually better to wait about half an hour before brushing your teeth to avoid damaging your tooth enamel.

Interested in learning more? Read our blog article "Women’s Oral Health at all Life Stages."

Changes in your hormone levels can have a variety of effects on your oral health. A reduction of sex hormones can cause dry mouth, making it easier for bacteria to build up. When the blood flow to the gums is affected by hormone fluctuation, it can lead to problems like receding gums, bleeding gums, and gum disease. Your tongue may also start feeling tingly, and your sense of taste can change. For these reasons, it's important to ensure that you are maintaining good oral health habits during menopause and other periods of high hormone fluctuation.

Interested in learning more? Read our blog article "Women’s Oral Health at all Life Stages."

Yes, a change in your hormone levels can lead to periodontal disease. Hormones affect the supply of blood to your gums. When your gums do not get the blood they need to remain healthy, it can lead to gingivitis, a mild form of periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into worse forms of periodontal disease, leading to bone and tooth loss. It is best to catch and treat hormonal gingivitis early to prevent these negative impacts on your oral health.

Interested in learning more? Read our blog article "Women’s Oral Health at all Life Stages."

Hormones play a role in helping your gums receive the blood they need to heal and stay healthy. When your sex hormone levels change, it can have a variety of effects on your gums, including periodontal disease. The effects are more pronounced in women. When estrogen levels change, it can lead to oral health problems like bleeding gums and gum disease.

To find out more, read our blog article "The Effects of Hormones on Your Oral Health."

Because hormones affect the blood supply to your gums, any period of high hormonal fluctuation can have a big impact on your oral health, such as menopause. During menopause, women are at an increased risk of a variety of oral health issues, including bleeding gums, gingivitis, and tooth decay. During any period of hormonal imbalance or change, be sure to maintain your oral health hygiene habits and visit a dentist regularly to keep an eye out for issues as they develop.

To find out more, read our blog article "The Effects of Hormones on Your Oral Health."

Puberty is a time of hormonal changes, and fluctuations in hormone levels can have a surprising impact on your oral health. Hormones affect the ability of your gums to get the blood it needs to remain healthy. Hormonal changes also impact the way your gums react to plaque and bacteria. For these reasons, when hormone levels change during puberty, you can be at an increased risk of bleeding gums, gum recession, and even gingivitis. Stay vigilant in your oral health hygiene during puberty and be sure to visit a dentist regularly to ensure that any oral health issues that may crop up are treated promptly.

To find out more, read our blog article "The Effects of Hormones on Your Oral Health."

Here are five interesting facts you might not know about teeth:

1. The hardest substance in your body is tooth enamel.
2. While they may look similar, teeth are not bones.
3. Sports cause 10 to 39% of tooth injuries in children.
4. While tooth enamel can be strengthened and repaired, it does not grow back.
5. Just like your fingerprints, your teeth are unique to you.

Want to find out some more facts about teeth? Read our blog article "10 Fun Dental Facts You Didn't Know."

In centuries past, professional dentists also tended to have side jobs as barbers and blacksmiths, since all of these jobs required the use of sharp tools. Some early treatments for dental problems did not have much basis in medicine, such as tying a frog to your jaw to fix a loose tooth!

Want to find out some more facts about teeth? Read our blog article "10 Fun Dental Facts You Didn't Know."

Did you know that babies are actually born with teeth? It's true! Babies are born with 20 teeth already waiting beneath their gums to emerge after about 3 to 6 months. Adult teeth start to form under the gums during childhood.

Want to find out some more facts about teeth? Read our blog article "10 Fun Dental Facts You Didn't Know."

Dental care is thousands of years old. Even before the days of toothbrushes, people used the frayed edges of special twigs to clean their teeth. The ancient Egyptians even used a mixture of powdered eggshells and animal hooves to scrub their teeth. Modern toothbrushes with nylon bristles weren’t invented until the 1930s.

Want to find out some more facts about teeth? Read our blog article "10 Fun Dental Facts You Didn't Know."

Here are a few sobering facts about tooth decay:

• Two of the most common chronic health conditions in the US are cavities and periodontal disease.
• Cavities are the most common disease in children.
• Of all adults over the age of 65, 25% have lost all of their teeth due to periodontal disease.

Want to find out some more facts about teeth? Read our blog article "10 Fun Dental Facts You Didn't Know."

Ancient civilizations were performing surprisingly advanced dental treatments thousands of years ago, and the first book dedicated completely to dentistry was written in 1530. However, professional dentists who focused exclusively on oral health did not emerge until the 1700s.

Curious about learning more? Check out our blog article "Timeline of the History of Dentistry."

The oldest evidence of oral health issues being diagnosed and treated is from thousands of years ago, when the ancient Egyptians wrote about tooth decay and created replacements for lost teeth. Ancient Greeks like Hippocrates and Aristotle also wrote about dental topics like gum disease and dental treatments for decaying teeth and broken jaws.

Curious about learning more? Check out our blog article "Timeline of the History of Dentistry."

The first toothbrushes were twigs with frayed edges that people used to scrub teeth. Around 1780, William Addis created the first toothbrush using swine bristles and a carved cattle bone handle. Modern nylon toothbrushes didn't come on the scene in the early 1900s. Nowadays, we have electric toothbrushes, floss, mouthwash, and other hygiene tools at our disposal.

Curious about learning more? Check out our blog article "Timeline of the History of Dentistry."

While other ancient civilizations may have practiced dental hygiene first, the earliest known culture to put their dental treatments into writing was ancient Egypt, almost 10,000 years ago. The ancient Egyptians knew about tooth decay, calling it "tooth worms," and were able to create replacements for lost teeth through early forms of dentures and crowns.

Curious about learning more? Check out our blog article "Timeline of the History of Dentistry."

The first dental hygienist was Irene Newman. She trained as a dental nurse under Alfred C Fones. After teaching her to scale and polish teeth, he decided to call her a dental hygienist. Dr. Fones went on to train 96 more dental hygienists, who all received licenses and began to practice, first in Connecticut and then in other states.

Curious about learning more? Check out our blog article "Timeline of the History of Dentistry."

Smile Generation MyChart makes the patient experience easier by providing a single portal for everything you need to take charge of your dental health. From one place, you can schedule appointments, request new services, contact your dentist, sign documents, browse your health history, and more. Using Smile Generation MyChart helps you stay connected to your providers and play an active role in your care.

Learn more about MyChart in our blog article "Smile Generation MyChart: Why You Should Be Using It to Manage Your Care."

Smile Generation MyChart provides a single digital portal where you can manage your health and dental care from the comfort of your home. From MyChart, you can schedule new appointments, check your health history, make payments, sign forms, message your healthcare providers, and much more. Your MyChart can link with medical providers in addition to dental offices, so you can manage your whole-body health from one location!

Learn more about what you can do with MyChart in our blog article "Smile Generation MyChart: Why You Should Be Using It to Manage Your Care."

You should use Smile Generation MyChart to take an active role in your healthcare. With no hold times or waiting rooms required, you can log into your MyChart portal from anywhere to view your complete health records, schedule appointments, manage upcoming appointments, ask your healthcare providers questions, access test results, get prescriptions, and much more. With better access to your healthcare information and doctors, you can better manage your whole-body health.

Find out more about the uses of Smile Generation MyChart in our blog article "Smile Generation MyChart: Why You Should Be Using It to Manage Your Care."

Smile Generation MyChart puts everything you need to manage your health in one place. From this online portal, you can:

• Schedule and Manage Your Appointments
• Check-in Electronically
• Communicate With Your Care Team
• Link to Existing Accounts
• Give Access to Your Family
• And More

Learn more about what you can do with Smile Generation MyChart in our blog article "Smile Generation MyChart: Why You Should Be Using It to Manage Your Care."

There are many types of vitamins that can help keep your teeth healthy and prevent decay. To ensure good oral health, get plenty of the following vitamins in your diet:

·       Calcium

·       Vitamin C

·       Vitamin D

·       Vitamin K2

·       Collagen

·       Magnesium

·       Zinc

·       Vitamin B12

·       Vitamin K

·       Phosphorus

For more information, check out our blog article "Vitamins for Teeth: What You Need to Know."

Many vitamins help fight both cavities and gum disease. To ensure your continuing oral health, try to eat foods high in:

·       Vitamin C, which strengthens teeth and soft tissue in the mouth

·       Vitamin D, which helps prevent tooth decay and gum inflammation

·       Collagen, which promotes strong teeth and gum thickness

·       Vitamin K, which helps promote bone strength and prevent bleeding gums

For more information, read our blog article "Vitamins for Teeth: What You Need to Know."

Your body relies on a number of vitamins to help keep your teeth and gums healthy. A long-term deficiency in any of the following could cause you to run the risk of oral health issues:

• Calcium
• Collagen
• Magnesium
• Zinc
• Phosphorus
• Vitamin B12
• Vitamin K
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin K2

To learn more, check out our blog article "Vitamins for Teeth: What You Need to Know."

Cavities do not go away on their own, but you can help prevent cavities by getting plenty of vitamin D through sunlight exposure as well as eating foods like fish, portobello mushrooms, and dairy products. Vitamin D plays an important role in bone and tooth mineralization, which keeps your teeth strong.

To find out more, read our blog article "Vitamins for Teeth: What You Need to Know."

Yes, brushing your teeth is self-care. As an important part of oral care, brushing twice a day keeps your teeth and gums clean, which helps prevent cavities and periodontal disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene not only helps your mouth stay healthy but also your whole body. Seeing a dentist twice a year is another important part of self-care to address any oral health issues before they become serious health problems.

 For more information, check out our blog article "The Vicious Cycle of Not Going to the Dentist."

Taking care of your teeth is just one of many ways to keep healthy. Just like eating a balanced breakfast, staying active, and getting enough sleep, maintaining your oral health helps you avoid risks to your whole-body health. It will also give you a bright and attractive smile that you can be proud to show off.

For more information, check out our blog article "The Vicious Cycle of Not Going to the Dentist."

Here are a few ways to help you face your fear of the dentist so that you can get control of your oral health:

• Word of Mouth: Ask for recommendations of dentists in your area to find one who will provide you with the best service possible.
• Search Online: Use the internet to read up about your local dentists to find one with the best credentials and patient feedback. You can also search for dentists with special training in an area you might need help with.
• Share Your Concerns: Once you have selected a dental practice, talk to the staff about your fears and find out what they can offer you to help make your visit as comfortable as possible.
• Relaxation: Use simple tricks during your appointment to keep yourself relaxed and calm, such as squeezing a stress ball or thinking about your happy place.

For more information, check out our blog article "The Vicious Cycle of Not Going to the Dentist."

Many people get caught in a vicious cycle of not going to the dentist. The longer they delay, the more they fear going back for their overdue check-up. But there's no reason to fear. Selecting the right dentist can ensure that you have the most comfortable experience possible, and there are many techniques you can use during your appointment to help you relax.

Getting regular, 6-month dental appointments helps keep your dental hygiene in check and address any potential oral health issues you may develop before they get worse.

For more information, check out our blog article "The Vicious Cycle of Not Going to the Dentist."

Recovery time for a frenectomy varies by the patient's age. An infant will recover very quickly after the procedure and can usually resume breastfeeding right away without any problem. For older children and adults, the recovery time can take about three to five days. During this time, patients can drink liquids but should avoid eating until after the anesthesia has worn off and only eat soft foods before resuming solid food.

For more information on frenectomy recovery, check out our blog article "Lip Tie Frenectomy."

You need a frenectomy if you are suffering negative effects from the connective skin attached to your lip or tongue, which is called a frenulum. Some issues that you may experience include:

• Separating gums as the frenulum pulls your gums away from your teeth
• Lip-tie, where your lip mobility is limited
• Tongue-tie, where your tongue mobility is limited
• Diastema, which is a gap between your teeth
• Pain during brushing or other oral care

The removal or modification of the frenulum with a frenectomy can alleviate these issues. For more information, read our blog article "Lip Tie Frenectomy."

Frenectomy surgery is a surgical procedure to correct a tongue tie or lip tie issue. A surgeon removes or modifies the connective flap of tissue that attaches to the patient's tongue or lip, which is called a frenulum. This can help to correct issues such as limited movement in the lip or tongue, pain during oral care, gum separation from the teeth, and gaps between the teeth.

For more information on frenectomy surgery, check out our blog article "Lip Tie Frenectomy."

A frenectomy is the removal or modification of the frenulum, which attaches to your lip or tongue. The procedure is usually covered by most insurance carriers as long as you have a referral, in which case you will only have to pay the copay. The cost for the procedure without insurance can vary from $800 to $8,000.

For more information, read out our blog article "Lip Tie Frenectomy."

Yes, studies on the oral inhaler medication salbutamol, also known as albuterol, have shown that the use of asthma inhalers can increase tooth decay and cause cavities. Inhalers can also cause a range of other oral health issues, including dry mouth, oral fungal infection, and mouth sores.  It is recommended that you rinse your mouth out after using an inhaler to minimize the effects.

For more information, read our blog article "Can Asthma Inhalers Cause Cavities?"

Yes, you should rinse your mouth after using an asthma inhaler. The medication used in inhalers has been shown to contribute to a range of oral health issues, including:

• Tooth decay and cavities
• Mouth sores
• Dry mouth
• Oral fungal infection

Rinsing your mouth out after using an inhaler will minimize the amount of time the medication coats the inside of your mouth and therefore reduces its effects on your oral health.

To learn more about inhalers and oral health, read our blog article "Can Asthma Inhalers Cause Cavities?"

The medications in a wide range of asthma inhalers can cause tooth decay and other oral health issues, which is why it's important to rinse your mouth after using them and minimize the contact that they have with your teeth, tongue, and gums. Medications including corticosteroids, albuterol, and Advair can all have a negative effect on your oral health. If you use any of these medications, you should rinse your mouth out with water after every use and ensure that you maintain good oral health habits.

For more information about the effects of inhalers on your oral health, read our blog article "Can Asthma Inhalers Cause Cavities?"

Inhalers can help you treat your asthma through daily use and during sudden attacks, but inhaler medication can also have a negative effort on your oral health. Medications such as albuterol, corticosteroids, and Abvair can lead to oral health issues including:

• Tooth decay
• Oral fungal infections
• Dry mouth
• Mouth sores

To reduce the effect that steroids have on your oral health, it's recommended that you rinse your mouth out with water after each use to wash away the residue that is left behind on your teeth, gums, and inner cheeks.

For more information about inhalers and oral health, read our blog article "Can Asthma Inhalers Cause Cavities?"

Men and women have different risks to their oral health for both social and biological reasons. Women are more likely to face oral health challenges due to hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and menopause. Men are at a higher risk for issues such as oral cancer and damaged teeth due to physical activity and the use of alcohol and tobacco.

Men and women benefit equally from healthy oral habits, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and making regular visits to the dentist.

For more information on the differences between men's and women's oral health, read our blog article "Oral Health Differences Between Men and Women."

The risks associated with men's oral health are mostly due to social rather than biological factors. Men are more likely to engage in sports and high-impact activities, increasing their risk of damage to their teeth. Men are more likely to indulge in alcohol and tobacco products, which can cause a range of oral health issues, including oral cancer. On top of it all, men are less likely to maintain healthy oral hygiene habits and get regular dental checkups.

To learn more about the differences between men's and women's oral health, read our blog article "Oral Health Differences Between Men and Women."

Women's oral health comes under risk during periods of hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy and menopause. These changes can cause a number of oral health issues, including dry mouth, bleeding gums, gingivitis, and more. Osteoporosis can also affect the supporting bone structure of the jaw. For these reasons, it is especially important for women to maintain good oral hygiene habits during periods of hormonal change.

To learn more about the different oral health risks for men and women, read our blog article "Oral Health Differences Between Men and Women."

While women are at a higher risk of certain oral health issues due to hormone fluctuations, men's specific risks are mostly caused by social trends. Men are more likely to engage in activities that cause damage to their teeth and jaws. They are also more likely to use tobacco and alcohol, which put them at a higher risk of oral cancer. In addition, men are less likely to have good oral hygiene habits. So, the best way for men to avoid negative oral health outcomes is to ensure that they are brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing a dentist regularly for check-ups.

For additional info about the different challenges facing men and women, see our blog article "Oral Health Differences Between Men and Women."

Inflammation in your mouth due to poor oral health can have a wide range of consequences throughout your body. Inflammation is a major cause of disorders such as heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer's, and cancer. To ensure that your body is as healthy as possible, it's important to maintain your oral health through good oral hygiene habits and regular trips to the dentist.

For more information, read our blog article "What Is the Mouth-Body Connection?"

Your body will respond to bacteria in your mouth by triggering an inflammation response to fight the bacteria. However, the inflammation itself can have a negative effect on your oral health, leading to issues such as swollen gums, gum loss, bone infection, and tooth loss. Further, the inflammation can travel to other parts of your body, causing problems such as cardiovascular disease and even cancer. It is therefore important to stop oral inflammation with good dental hygiene and regular trips to the dentist.

For more information on the connection between oral and whole-body health, read our blog article "What Is the Mouth-Body Connection?"

Inflammation in your mouth caused by poor oral health increases your risk of developing diabetes by 9%. Losing teeth increases your risk by 21%. Furthermore, chronic gum disease causes a spike in your blood sugar levels, making it more difficult to control diabetes, while diabetes itself hinders your body's ability to fight infections such as gum disease. This feedback loop of negative health effects makes the combination of conditions very dangerous.

For more information on the connection between oral and whole-body health, read our blog article "What Is the Mouth-Body Connection?"

When bacteria enter the bloodstream due to periodontal disease and other oral health disorders, they can reach the brain and affect your brain health. Periodontal disease and tooth loss have been linked with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. In fact, losing more than half your teeth before the age of 60 will double your chance of developing dementia. This relationship can also become circular, since dementia patients often find it more difficult to remember to maintain their oral health, which can speed up the progression of their dementia.  

For more information on the connection between oral and whole-body health, read our blog article "What Is the Mouth-Body Connection?"

Unfortunately, many teenagers, adults in their 20's and 30's will have to go through a surgical procedure to address their final set of molars. While surgery isn't always the correct answer for problematic wisdom teeth, for many patients, the process of new tooth growth can be painful and even lead to infection. Oral surgeons often remove wisdom teeth in-office, but all four (4) extraction cases may require surgical removal in a hospital setting.

The lack of room for growth may lead to impacted wisdom teeth. Did you know infection can set in when food and bacteria get trapped in the teeth? In addition, they can hurt your existing teeth, causing shifting to make room for the new molars. Most oral surgeons recommend extraction at the first signs of any problems.

Wisdom tooth removal is an effective treatment and eliminates the problems that come with their growth. For example, oral surgeons stop the crowding that occurs at the back of your mouth. In addition, surgeons prevent your wisdom teeth from impacting further and help avoid gum disease and tooth decay accompanying improper growth. The sooner you deal with impacted wisdom teeth, the better chance you have of preventing complications. Further, regular dental checkups are vital to good oral health. Finally, your dentist keeps a close eye on your incoming wisdom teeth and recommends extraction before the painful eruption of these molars.

As the case with any surgery, wisdom teeth extraction has some complications or risks. You should be aware of these beforehand, so you're making an informed choice about removing your wisdom teeth. Experienced oral surgeons do everything possible to avoid adverse side effects. Risks include excessive bleeding, jaw pain, extended recovery, soreness, and an inability of the gums to heal. The most common complication is the development of dry sockets post-extraction.

Do you feel constant pressure but not acute or sharp pain? Often, a sign your wisdom teeth are growing in, but they don't have room, and overcrowding occurs. You don't want to harm or ruin your existing smile. Perhaps you've had orthodontic treatment like braces or clear aligners. You invested a lot of time and money to have straight, aligned teeth. Unfortunately, overcrowding caused by wisdom tooth growth may shift the surrounding teeth, and the result leaves many patients unhappy. Nobody wants crooked, misaligned teeth and to go through surgery and orthodontic treatment again. Do you wear a retainer? If you answered yes, you might need to wear it to stop your existing teeth from shifting until you can see your dentist.

Do you cringe when thinking about having your wisdom teeth removed? Some people don't have issues with them, but the majority have them removed. Why is this necessary? The set of four (4) molars in the back of your mouth are difficult to clean with brushing correctly. But, if you have no issues with them and can keep them clean, you may not need unnecessary surgery. However, most people will deal with one (1) or more wisdom teeth, so it's something to discuss with your dentist regularly.

The most common symptom is pain, which tends to come and go. Wisdom tooth pain may last on and off for several years. Pain is a sign your wisdom teeth are growing or impacted. What happens if the pain persists? When your wisdom tooth pain worsens or persists, you should go to the dentist. The pain may be a result of complications.

Some wisdom teeth grow crooked or at an angle, the most common causation for immediate removal. You will notice this when you feel pain as they grow, and it seems like it never stops hurting. Others come in fine but decay over time. Since wisdom teeth are hard to reach or see, cavities, dental caries, and decay are commonplace. Discomfort and pain come in waves or acutely start and stop. The pain often persists for several weeks or months and, in some instances, years. What happens if you try to tough it out and ignore the pain? Your wisdom tooth may break due to decay and spread a more painful infection in your mouth. Dentists do not recommend a tough-it-out approach.

Orthodontists treat patients with crooked teeth, crowded teeth, spaces or gaps, underbites, overbites, and crossbites.

Clear aligners are a great choice if you want to make minor corrections to your smile.

You're never too old to get braces if you have permanent teeth and a healthy jawbone. There is no age limit for adult men and women to seek out orthodontic treatment.

First, many orthodontic problems occur because your jaw and teeth do not meet correctly. The Latin root word mal means "bad," and occlude means "too close." Hence, the condition is known as malocclusion.

In total, an orthodontist completes almost eleven (11) years of schooling after high school. It's not as easy to be an orthodontist as you might think.

You may ask your dentist for braces; however, you will need to see an orthodontist for treatment. The treatment process begins through a referral by your dentist, or you may book an appointment directly with a local orthodontist.

People refer to the words overbite and overjet conversely. These dental issues share similarities. However, they are not alike. Talk to your orthodontist at your consultation visit about any questions you may have regarding overbites or overjet.

Retrognathia means your mandible sits behind your maxilla. As a result, people call retrognathia an overbite.

Orthodontists and dentists refer to the upper jaw as your maxilla.

Like your upper jaw, an Orthodontist or dentist calls your lower jaw the mandible.

Mandibular Retrognathia means a person has a noticeably recessed chin and overbite. Additionally, people suffering from this dental issue often state it severely affects their self-esteem.

Yes, periodontal specialists focus exclusively on treating inflammatory disease that destroys the gums and other supporting structures around the teeth.

Periodontal treatments clean the infected surfaces of a tooth's root. Often, patients require the removal of damaged tissue. The goal is to treat and reverse bone and gum tissue loss.

If left untreated, gum disease causes inflammation to your gums. As a result, your supporting bone structure further deteriorates. Most often resulting in receding gums or tooth loss.

You may be surprised to know 47.2% of adults over (thirty) 30 have some form of periodontal disease. If you are 65 and older, the number increases to 70.1%.

At the second stage of gum disease, it is not reversible. However, it is manageable with regular periodontal exams and treatment. Most importantly, do not ignore the signs of gum disease at any stage.

If your gum recession isn't severe, your Periodontist may recommend the following non-surgical treatments: Scaling, Root Planning, and Antibiotics.

Flap Surgery or Pocket Reduction Surgery; Soft Tissue Grafts; Bone Grafting, Guided Tissue Regeneration; and Tissue Stimulating Proteins.

 First, a Periodontist is a Dentist. However, Periodontal Specialists diagnose, prevent and treat periodontitis, receding gums, inflammation, tooth loss (dental implants), and other chronic tissue loss of the teeth. Further, a Periodontist completed an additional three (3) years of training after graduating from dental school.

According to The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one (1) out of every two (2) US adults suffers from periodontal disease. That's 47.2% or 64.7 million adults thirty (30) years and older suffering from mild, moderate, to severe periodontal disease, including gum recession.

A Periodontist may perform one (1) of three (3) surgeries depending on the severity and complexity of your gum recession. The restorative surgeries are called a Connective Graft, Free Gingival Graft, and a Pedicle Graft.

The medical term for teeth grinding is Bruxism. Grinding your teeth causes many problems like loose teeth, chipped or broken teeth, and gum recession. Bruxism often occurs at night and goes unnoticed because you're asleep. If you are a chronic teeth grinder, don't take it lightly. Schedule an appointment with your dentist today.

Children can suffer from a variety of illnesses and injuries. Whether due to rough play or an accident, an impact to the mouth can result in a chipped baby tooth. This can be painful to the child and cause a lot of crying and distress, but as a parent, it's important not to panic. Check the severity of the injury to see if the tooth is chipped or completely knocked out. Once you understand the damage, contact a dentist and explain the situation. The dentist will then be able to guide you through the next steps.

For more information, read out blog article "Your Baby Chipped a Tooth. What Now?"

If your child suffers an impact to their teeth, the first thing to do is inspect your child's mouth so you have a clear understanding of whether you're dealing with a chipped baby tooth or lost tooth. If your child is having difficulty breathing, they may have swallowed shards of the tooth. Take your child to the emergency room if that's the case. The next step is to contact a dentist and explain the situation. The dentist will tell you whether you need to make an appointment or come in immediately. In the short term, rinse out the area and look for any fragments of the tooth.

For additional information, read out blog article "Your Baby Chipped a Tooth. What Now?"

Depending on the severity of the damage, your dentist may recommend that a broken baby tooth be repaired. If nerve damage has occurred, the tooth might need to be extracted. A chipped tooth might also get infected and cause an abscess, which can result in fever, facial pain, swelling, bleeding, difficulty eating, and more. However, if the baby tooth has only minor damage, your dentist may recommend simply waiting for it to fall out on its own.

To learn more, read out blog article "Your Baby Chipped a Tooth. What Now?"

If your child chips a baby tooth, your child may need immediate help. If the child has swallowed any fragments of tooth, they may have difficulty breathing, in which case you should go to the emergency room immediately. Once you have assessed the damage, you should contact a dentist. They will tell you whether you need to come into the dental office for prompt attention or just schedule an appointment.

 For more details, read out blog article "Your Baby Chipped a Tooth. What Now?"

Some TikTokers are changing the way their teeth look by shaving them down with nail files. However, removing the hard, protective outer enamel of a tooth runs the risk of exposing the more vulnerable layers beneath. The damaged tooth can suffer from sensitivity, pain, decay, and more. Rather than attempting to modify the shape of your teeth at home, you should instead consult a dentist to understand the cosmetic dentistry options available that will not lead to permanent damage.

For more information, read our blog article "TikTok Dental Hacks & Dentists to Follow."

You may have seen TikTokers attempting to whiten their teeth by applying "magic erasers" to stains on their teeth. While this may indeed remove the stain, it also destroys the enamel beneath the stain, which can exposes the more sensitive layers underneath and leave the tooth yellowed and sensitive. The harsh chemicals are not intended to be used on humans, so they can also make you sick if you put them in your mouth or inhale them.

Rather than use these dangerous methods, it is much preferable to use over-the-counter teeth whitening products or make an appointment for professional teeth whitening service with your dentist.

For more information, read our blog article "TikTok Dental Hacks & Dentists to Follow."

There are many interesting and knowledgeable dentists on TikTok providing a fun and entertaining look at dental health. These dentists can share useful tips and information on how to keep your teeth healthy and looking their brightest. They can also offer an interesting look behind the scenes at a dentist office. Some TikTokers we recommend including Dr. Jim Tran, Dr. Lulu Tang, and Dr. Chris Tolmie.

To learn more about dentistry on TikTok, read our blog article "TikTok Dental Hacks & Dentists to Follow."

You may have seen a wide variety of trends being presented on TikTok, many of them for dental procedures that you can perform yourself at home. One of these trends is using rubber bands to straighten your teeth or remove gaps between your teeth. However, this trend will actually do more harm than good to your dental health. Moving teeth rapidly with rubber bands can cause damage to your roots, gums, and the bone that supports your teeth, potentially resulting in lost teeth.

Rather than attempting this dangerous trend, you should consult an orthodontist in the options available to straighten your teeth safely and effectively, such as metal braces and removable clear aligners.

For more info on TikTok dental trends, read our blog article "TikTok Dental Hacks & Dentists to Follow."

Oral care products are the things you use to maintain your oral hygiene, keeping your gums healthy and your teeth clean and white. Some types of oral care products include:

• Toothbrushes
• Toothpaste
• Mouthwash
• Disclosing tablets
• Dental floss
• Tongue scrapers

While it's not necessary to use every single type of oral care product available, each can provide its own benefits to your oral hygiene and health. Speak to your dentist about which products they recommend for your unique needs.

To learn more about oral hygiene products, read our blog "A Guide to Oral Care Products."

Maintaining your oral hygiene can involve an assortment of products and tools that will help keep your teeth healthy and white. Perhaps the most basic and important oral hygiene product is toothpaste, which helps scrub your teeth, remove stains, and strengthen your enamel. There are a variety of types of toothpaste that have unique advantages. For example, fluoride toothpaste helps remineralize your teeth, while charcoal toothpaste binds to stains, tartar, and other contaminants so they can be more easily removed.

To learn about additional oral hygiene products, read our blog "A Guide to Oral Care Products."

There are a wide range of oral care products you can use as part of your oral hygiene regimen to keep your teeth clean. Some of the products available include:

• Toothbrushes
• Electric toothbrushes
• Water picks
• Dental floss, picks, and sticks
• Interdental brushes

Dentists recommend that your regimen should always include brushing your teeth with a toothbrush twice a day and flossing daily. Using other products can also help remove stubborn bacteria from your teeth and gums. Consult with your dentist to find out what they recommend for your unique situation.

For more info on oral hygiene products, read our blog "A Guide to Oral Care Products."

Root resorption most commonly occurs in your twenties and is more common in women. The typical causes of teeth roots dissolving away during adulthood include:

• Tooth impaction
• Teeth grinding
• Infection in the tooth nerve
• Infection in the gums
• Orthodontic treatment

However, sometimes teeth roots can become resorbed for unknown reasons. Treatment options will vary depending on your situation, so you should schedule an appointment with your dentist to find out what will work best for you.

For more information on root resorption, read our blog article "Root Resorption & Short Teeth Roots."

If you are suffering from the side effects of overly short tooth roots, such as pain and swelling, you should make an appointment with your dentist to analyze your options. The most common treatment for root resorption is a root canal, which can save the tooth. If a root canal will not resolve the issue, however, the tooth may need to be removed to prevent complications.

To learn more, read our blog article "Root Resorption & Short Teeth Roots."

When you have a tooth with roots that are smaller than its crown, it can cause complications like pain and swelling, and the tooth might even be at risk of falling out. If you have teeth with unusually short roots, you should see a dentist to understand your options. The most common treatment is to perform a root canal, which can prevent unpleasant side effects while saving the tooth. Sometimes, however, the tooth cannot be saved, and it is best to remove it in a professional setting.

To find out more, read our blog article "Root Resorption & Short Teeth Roots."

Yes, braces can result in shorter tooth roots. When a tooth is moved to new locations in the mouth, enzymes dissolve the bone around its starting location, and new bone grows around its final location. During this process, the roots of the tooth can shorten by around 5 to 15%. Usually, this decrease is not even noticeable. However, if roots become too short, it can cause problems down the line and may require a dental procedure such as a root canal.

To learn more about short roots, read our blog article "Root Resorption & Short Teeth Roots."

Studies have shown a link between gum disease and high blood pressure. In fact, people with gum disease are twice as likely to have high blood pressure. When Inflammation in the gums gets into your bloodstream, it can cause problems throughout your cardiovascular system. This is one of many reasons why practicing good oral hygiene habits can help you maintain your whole-body health.

For more info, read our blog article "What Does Gum Disease Have to Do With Blood Pressure?"

Yes. Inflammation from gingivitis can enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation and arterial plaque to spread throughout your body. People with gum disease are twice as likely to develop high blood pressure. In one study, about half of the participants with gum disease also had hypertension. To maintain your whole-body health, it is therefore important to maintain your oral health through good oral hygiene habits and regular trips to the dentist.

To learn more, read our blog article "What Does Gum Disease Have to Do With Blood Pressure?"

Poor oral health is linked with high blood pressure and vice versa. When your gums are inflamed from gingivitis, the inflammation can spread throughout the body, causing damage to your heart health. High blood pressure can also reduce the flow of blood to your gums, which can contribute to the development of gum disease. The connection between oral health and whole-body health is called the Mouth-Body Connection. You can't have good whole-body health without good oral health!

Find out more about the connection in our blog article "What Does Gum Disease Have to Do With Blood Pressure?"

Periodontal disease is associated with an elevated risk of high blood pressure. Inflammation in your gums caused by periodontal disease can enter your bloodstream, which spreads the inflammation throughout your body and cause problems with your heart health, including high blood pressure. The interaction also works in reverse, with high blood pressure contributing to the development of gum disease. This relationship between your oral health and whole-body health is called the Mouth-Body Connection.

To learn more, check out our blog article "What Does Gum Disease Have to Do With Blood Pressure?"

Yes, energy drinks are typically high in sugar and acidity, both of which can be harmful to your teeth. The sugar will coat your mouth after each sip and get slowly broken down by bacteria in acid, which weakens your tooth enamel. The acid in the beverage itself will have the same effect. Even sugar-free energy drinks are still high in several types of acids.

To consume energy drinks more safely, be sure to rinse your mouth out with water afterwards and do not brush your teeth for the next half hour.

For more information, check out our blog article "Are Energy Drinks Bad for Your Teeth?" 

Yes, taurine is an amino acid that, like other acids found in foods and beverages, can soften the enamel of your teeth and lead to tooth decay. Taurine is typically found in high doses in energy drinks, which often also have a high amount of sugar as well. It is best to limit your intake of energy drinks and find healthy alternatives, such as water, unsweetened tea, and milk. If you must drink an energy drink, be sure to rinse your mouth out with water afterward and do not brush your teeth for at least 30 minutes.

To learn more about energy drinks and oral health, read our blog article "Are Energy Drinks Bad for Your Teeth?"

Sugar-free energy drinks contain high amounts of acid, which weakens the enamel of your teeth. Your mouth naturally has a pH of between 6.8 and 7, while an energy drink usually has around a 3.2. To protect your teeth, it is best to find healthier alternatives to energy drinks, such as water, unsweetened tea, and diluted juice. However, sugar-free versions of energy drinks are still preferable to those containing large amounts of sugar, which also contributes to tooth decay.

To learn more about the effects of energy drinks on your oral health, read our blog article "Are Energy Drinks Bad for Your Teeth?"

Energy drinks typically have a pH of 3.2, which is considerably more acidic than the pH usually found in your mouth pf around 6.8 to 7. This can be a problem because acids can erode your teeth and cause tooth decay over time. To protect your oral health, it is best to avoid highly acidic beverages and stick to healthier alternatives, like water, unsweetened tea, and milk.

For more on the effects of energy drinks on your oral health, read our blog article "Are Energy Drinks Bad for Your Teeth?"

According to the American Dental Association, children should start flossing as soon as they have teeth that are touching. Children of a young age will probably need help flossing their teeth, so parents should be ready to assist. If you are having difficulty, try using flossers that have been specially designed with children in mind. It is important to maintain your child's oral health even when they have baby teeth and help them build oral hygiene habits that will last a lifetime.

For more info, see our blog article "How to Floss for Kids & Toddlers."

Kids should have their teeth flossed as soon as they have two teeth that are touching. Most young children will not be able to effectively floss their own teeth for a while, so they will need your help. Make sure you let them know why they need to have their teeth flossed. Put them at ease by giving them a toy to hold during the process and always be gentle. To make the flossing easier, you can use flossers designed specifically for kids.

To learn more tips about flossing for kids, check out our blog article "How to Floss for Kids & Toddlers."

The American Dental Association recommends that children should begin flossing as soon as they have two teeth that are touching. You will need to assist your child while they are very young. Remember to be gentle to prevent the flossing from being painful. If you need help keeping your child still during flossing, try establishing a routine and explain why they need to floss. You can also sing or give them a toy during flossing.

For more tips about flossing young children, see our blog article "How to Floss for Kids & Toddlers."

To maintain good oral health, even baby teeth should be flossed. As soon as your child has two teeth that are touching, you should begin to floss their teeth. Make sure they understand why it is important to floss and establish a routine so that they know what to expect during the process. If your child becomes restless, you can try giving them a toy to hold or singing to them. Some types of kid-friendly flossers can also make the process easier.

To learn more about flossing young children, see our blog article "How to Floss for Kids & Toddlers."

The cost of fillings can vary depending on the situation, your insurance, and the material of the filling being used. The most affordable fillings are metal fillings, also called amalgam fillings, which can cost between $100 and $360 without insurance. This is about half as much as a composite filling and one-tenth as much as a gold filling. There are advantages and disadvantages for each material, so it's important to speak with your dentist to understand your options and which type of filling will work best for you.

For more information, read our blog article "Dental Amalgam Fillings & Replacing Them."

Yes, no type of filling is permanent, and all will need to be replaced eventually. Silver fillings, also called amalgam fillings, are more long-lasting than some other types and will last between 10 and 15 years. Smaller fillings will generally last longer than larger fillings. However, circumstances may require that your particular filling might need to be replaced sooner. That's why it's important to visit your dentist regularly to assess the state of your fillings.

To learn more about amalgam fillings, read our article "Dental Amalgam Fillings & Replacing Them."

All types of dental fillings will need to be replaced eventually. Metal fillings, also called amalgam fillings, last longer than most types of materials and can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, though circumstances may require them to be replaced earlier. The smaller the filling, the longer it will tend to last. However, it's important to make regular trips to your dentist to ensure that your filling is still in good shape.

Check out our blog article for more information: "Dental Amalgam Fillings & Replacing Them."

Amalgam fillings are made with a mixture of metals such as silver, zinc, copper, tin, and mercury. They offer several benefits, including affordability, toughness, and longevity, but they also come with a few drawbacks. About 1% of patients have an allergic reaction to amalgam. They also require more of the tooth to be removed and can discolor the tooth they're placed in. In response to temperature changes, the metal can also expand and contract, which runs the risk of cracking the tooth. As with all dental procedures, it's important to speak to your dentist about all of your options to determine the best filling material for you.

Read our blog article for more info: "Dental Amalgam Fillings & Replacing Them."

Finding a good dentist will require some research. First, you can ask your friends and family for recommendations. You can also perform a search online to find dentists in your area. Once you have a few leads, read reviews about the dentists and their offices. If they have an online staff bio, you can read it to get a feel for their background, qualifications, and personality. Also make sure your potential dentists accept your dental insurance. Once you have narrowed down your list to your most likely candidate, you can schedule an appointment for a routine check-up and see how they measure up before proceeding to any more advanced treatments.

For more tips, read our blog article "How to Find the Best Dentist Near Me."

When searching for a dentist in your area, you may be left wondering what the difference is between dentists who have a DMD degree and a DDS degree. DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery, while DMD stands for Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry. However, there is no real difference between the degrees other than their name. They both refer to a four-year medical degree taken after the student's undergraduate degree. Schools simply refer to their dental degree by one term or the other. Both degrees are qualified to perform general dentistry, and dentists with both degrees can pursue specialized certification in areas like orthodontics, endodontics, etc.

To learn more, check out our blog article "How to Find the Best Dentist Near Me."

If you have located a dentist in your area and want to know whether they are qualified before making an appointment, it's important to do your research. Check out the reviews of the dentist and their office on their online profiles and in community forums. Read their staff bios to learn their qualifications and specialties. See if they are pursuing their continuing education to stay current on the latest advances. You should also find out whether they accept your dental insurance before making an appointment.

Get more tips about locating a dentist in our blog article "How to Find the Best Dentist Near Me."

To get the best dental treatment possible, it's important to find a dentist who works best for your needs. Ask your friends and neighbors for recommendations in your local area. Once you have a few candidates, do some research by looking them up online to see their reviews, the treatments they offer, the services they provide, and their hours. You can also read their staff bios to learn about their qualifications and background. Once you have selected a dentist, make an appointment for a check-up and find out whether they work for your needs.

For more helpful tips, read our blog article "How to Find the Best Dentist Near Me."

Yes, marijuana smoke can have a negative impact on your gums. Like cigarette smoking, marijuana smoke can dry out and irritate the mouth, allowing more bacteria to form and leading to gum swelling, gingivitis, lesions, and infections. These issues can progress into a loss of gum tissue, teeth, and even bone. The effects can go beyond your mouth as well. When your gums become inflamed and infected, the infection can also spread throughout the body.

To learn more about the health effects of marijuana, read our article "Is Smoking Weed Bad for Your Teeth?"

Yes. Like smoking cigarettes, marijuana smoke can stain your teeth. Marijuana smoke contains carcinogens, which discolor your tooth enamel. Over time, the discoloration can result in noticeable stains on your teeth. The stains will develop faster if you are not practicing good oral hygiene habits. Ask your doctor about whitening treatments and how to address the other risks to your oral health posed by marijuana smoke.

For more info, read our blog article "Is Smoking Weed Bad for Your Teeth?"

Yes, smoking marijuana is associated with an increase in cavities. Marijuana smoke causes dry mouth, which increases the amount of bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria can cause damage to both your teeth and gums, leading to an increased risk of cavities, gum disease, tooth loss, and other issues. Marijuana is also associated with an increased diet of junk food. The processed sugar in junk food can also cause tooth decay. If you smoke marijuana, be sure to stick to a strict oral hygiene routine and see your dentist regularly to address any damage to your oral health before it can get worse.

To learn more, read our blog article "Is Smoking Weed Bad for Your Teeth?" 

Marijuana is known to contain the compound cannabidiol, also called CBD, which has pain-relieving properties. As such, it can be an effective way to fight the pain of a toothache while you are waiting for treatment. Be warned, however, that smoking marijuana can have negative effects on your oral health over time, so making a habit of smoking marijuana can potentially increase your risk of more toothaches down the line.

For more information, read our blog article "Is Smoking Weed Bad for Your Teeth?"

COVID-19 has a wide array of associated symptoms and health effects, some of which affect your mouth. One study showed a connection between COVID and sores located both inside and outside of the mouth. Another study suggested a connection between COVID and dry mouth, which can result in an increased risk of gum infection and tooth decay. Anxiety over COVID may also cause other issues, such as teeth grinding and pain in the jaw.

For more information on COVID and oral health, see our blog article "Can COVID-19 Affect Teeth & Gums?"

Though not widely publicized, some symptoms of COVID-19 include problems with your oral health. Studies have associated issues like mouth sores, dry mouth, and jaw pain with the disease. While the coronavirus is not known to directly cause cavities, many patients during lockdown will tend to neglect making regular checkups with a dentist, which can cause existing tooth decay to go untreated. If you get COVID, it's important to not let your oral health fall by the wayside!

To get more info about COVID and oral health, check out our blog article "Can COVID-19 Affect Teeth & Gums?"

Studies have connected COVID to a few different oral health conditions that could pose a threat to your teeth and gums. One study observed some patients developing lesions inside and outside their mouths. Another study connected the disease with dry mouth, which is a contributing factor to gum disease and tooth decay.

Other conditions are not caused by COVID but are still associated with the disease. For example, anxiety over COVID can cause teeth grinding and jaw pain, while antibiotics used to treat the disease can cause tooth discoloration.

For more information on COVID's threat to your oral health, read our blog article "Can COVID-19 Affect Teeth & Gums?"

Missing teeth can cause a few oral health problems. The minerals used to support the missing tooth will be sent elsewhere in the body, causing bone loss in your jaw, which weakens your jaw overall and makes the adjacent teeth more likely to come loose. Adjacent teeth are also more likely to become crooked with no tooth to hold them in place. The tooth above or below the missing tooth can grow longer now that it has no counterpart to press against. All of this can cause problems in the way you chew and speak.

To learn more about the consequences of missing teeth, read our blog article "Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth."

Leaving an empty socket in your mouth after a tooth extraction can cause a number of problems, such as bone loss in your jaw and the shifting or loosening of teeth adjacent to the missing tooth. A dental implant that looks and functions like a natural tooth can prevent these issues, but it isn't the only option. Bridges, partial dentures, and full dentures can also help prevent oral health issues resulting from missing teeth.

Learn more about your options in our blog article "Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth."

It depends on where the tooth is located. Wisdom teeth can generally be extracted without causing any problems in your oral health. Leaving other teeth missing, however, can cause problems. With no tooth there to stimulate jawbone development and hold surrounding teeth in place, you can suffer bone loss and loose or misaligned teeth. In these cases, it's important to fill the gap with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture before negative effects can set in.

Find out more in our blog article "Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth."

You may not realize what effect your teeth have on your jawbone and the teeth around them. When a tooth is extracted and left missing, the bone beneath it will lose minerals that supported it, causing your jaw to get weaker and making the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth get looser. The tooth above or below the missing tooth can also get longer now that it has no partner pushing against it. All of these issues can cause problems with the way you chew and speak. To avoid these issues, talk to your dentist about filling the gap with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture.

Learn more about missing teeth in your blog article "Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth."

The Mouth-Body Connection refers to the link between oral health and overall systemic health, and the role that the harmful bacteria and inflammation in our mouths play in chronic, systemic disease. We’ve known about this link for nearly two decades, since the Surgeon General’s Report on Oral Health in America in 2000 (and updated in 2021). The mouth is the window to the rest of the body.

Click here to learn more about "What is the Mouth-Body Connection".

Smile Generation exists to help people connect with great, local dentists and to afford the treatment they need. Understanding the critical link between oral and overall health forms the foundation of our approach. Smile Generation-trusted is the seal of approval grounded in both peer and patient review that points to our commitment to the highest level of comprehensive care using advanced, proven technology.

Our promise is to strive to be the right fit for your family, your budget, your schedule, your health, and your smile. With offices across the country, we offer the same level of care from coast to coast. So, no matter where you are or how far you travel, Smile Generation-trusted means you have a dentist for life. 

Endodontic treatment helps you to maintain your natural teeth and smile. One of the best ways to save your natural tooth is specialized care and treatment.

An endodontist is a specialist in endodontic therapy. In simple terms, they are the kind of dentist that works specifically with patients who require a root canal.

In the tooth's center is soft tissue known as pulp and contains many blood vessels and nerve tissues. Often, it means the part of the tooth that experiences sensitivity to heat and cold. When this area gets infected, it can cause extreme pain because of the nerves' concentration.

Preventing oral health conditions like cavities and gum disease before they develop will save you money that you would otherwise spend to treat those issues. There are also many hidden costs of poor oral health. Studies have shown that tooth decay can lead to poor academic performance in children. Even in adulthood, a lack of confidence in the appearance of your teeth can affect your performance in job interviews.

To learn more about the effects of oral health on your finances, read our article "Mouth, Heart, and Wallet: Good Oral Health Can Be Good for Your Wallet."

Your oral health is linked to your whole-body health, so the effects of poor oral health can affect more than just your dentist bills. Studies have linked gum disease and inflammation with a range of other health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer's. The healthcare costs for these diseases can range from several thousand dollars per year to over $60,0000. To keep your doctor's bills down, it's important to take special care of your oral health!

To find out more, read our blog article "Mouth, Heart, and Wallet: Good Oral Health Can Be Good for Your Wallet."

Studies have shown a link between gun disease and the risk of Alzheimer's disease. This degenerative brain disease has no known cure and is very costly to treat. On average in 2015, Alzheimer's disease patients faced more than $60,000 in annual healthcare costs, including the need for caregivers to help with regular activities. And the cost of treatment is just the beginning of the problems patients will face.

To learn more, read our blog article "Mouth, Heart, and Wallet: Good Oral Health Can Be Good for Your Wallet."

Gum disease is linked with a number of adverse pregnancy outcomes that are dangerous to both mother and baby as well as very costly. Studies have shown a link between untreated gum disease and a higher risk of pre-term births and low birth weights. In addition to the health risks, these issues cost an average of $49,000 in the first year of the baby's life. For the sake of both your health and financial security, pregnant mothers should take special care of your oral health!

Find out more in our blog article "Mouth, Heart, and Wallet: Good Oral Health Can Be Good for Your Wallet."

Caregivers for people with physical and mental disabilities often overlook dental care, but doing so can cause more risk to their overall health than you might realize. A 2012 study of 4,700 people living with developmental disabilities found that 32% of this population had untreated cavities, and 80% had untreated gum disease. Allowing these issues to worsen over time can lead to greater risks of developing diabetes, respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, and many other conditions. It is therefore important to make oral health treatment a regular part of the healthcare of people with disabilities.

To learn more, read our blog article "Why Your Dental Health Is as Important as Your Overall Health."