About Me

 It’s Never too Late to Straighten Your Smile

Braces as an adult? No way. At least, that was what I thought when my dentist told me that I was going to have to see an orthodontist about my crooked teeth. But my teeth were so misaligned that they were causing me pain when I chewed, so I decided to at least look into it. Turns out braces today are nothing like the ones my friends had when I was a kid. Mine were practically invisible, and I didn't need to wear them that long. I started this blog to encourage other people like me who are nervous about the prospect of wearing braces as an adult. My straight smile is so worth the trips to the orthodontist, and wearing braces was nowhere near as bad as I thought. Read on to find out more about how you can straighten your smile.

Latest Posts

Tags

It’s Never too Late to Straighten Your Smile

blog

Signs You Could Benefit from Cosmetic Dentistry

There are many reasons why someone may choose to pursue cosmetic dentistry, but it can be challenging to determine if it's the right choice for you. Whether you're trying to achieve a brighter smile or addressing a dental issue that affects your confidence, cosmetic dentistry can help. In this blog post, we'll cover the signs that you could benefit from cosmetic dentistry, so you can determine if it's the right choice for you.

The Ultimate Guide to Periodontal Disease Treatments from Your General Dentist

Periodontal disease is a common dental problem affecting millions of people worldwide. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, bad breath, and even affect your overall health. The good news is that your general dentist can provide effective treatments for periodontal disease that can help prevent it from advancing and restore your oral health. In this ultimate guide, we will explore the various periodontal disease treatments offered by your general dentist.

The Brilliance of Professional Teeth Whitening

There's no denying the allure of a bright, white smile. It exudes confidence, enhances appearance, and can even take years off a face. But achieving that gleaming smile isn't always easy. That's where professional teeth whitening services come into play. Understanding Teeth Whitening Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that effectively lightens teeth and diminishes stains and discoloration. While it's important to note that it's not a one-time fix, regular treatments are necessary to preserve that radiant and dazzling smile.

Understanding Full Mouth Reconstruction Procedures

A full mouth reconstruction is a dental procedure that aims to restore the function, aesthetics, and health of your mouth. It is a comprehensive treatment that involves several dental procedures tailored to your specific needs. If you have extensive dental problems, such as missing or broken teeth, gum disease, or jaw pain, a full mouth reconstruction may be the best treatment for you. This blog will explore what happens during a full mouth reconstruction, the types of procedures involved, and what you can expect during and after the treatment.

When Should You Seek Help from a Dentist?

Many adults in the United States experience untreated cavities or tooth decay, indicating a dental health issue that needs attention. It is clear that people should take advantage of the benefits of regular dental check-ups. When it comes to caring for your teeth, prevention is always better than cure. Discover when you should seek the help of a dentist here. 1. Toothache or Sensitivity Tooth pain or sensitivity is your body’s way of telling you that something is wrong.

3 Technological Advancements That Dentist Services Are Using To Transform Patient Care

For most people, a visit to the dentist can induce stress and anxiety. To help ease some of that concern, the dental industry has begun utilizing several technological advancements that foster efficient care for greater patient comfort. From digital imaging and laser technology to improved biocompatible materials, dental solutions have come a long way. Take a closer look at 3 of the revolutionary techniques that dental services use every day for better accuracy and patient satisfaction.

Temporary Crown For A Temporary Tooth: When A Baby Tooth Needs A Dental Crown

When a permanent adult tooth needs reinforcement that can only be provided by a dental crown, the look of the crown is very important. It needs to look natural, and indeed totally indistinguishable from the tooth it's going to cover. Ceramic is the best choice for this, since it has the necessary strength to perform well under the compressive bite forces the tooth will undergo. Additionally, the surface of a ceramic crown does an excellent impersonation of the translucence of tooth enamel.

When Does Your Dental Crown Need To Be Replaced?

If you've had a crown for a few years and haven't had it replaced, you may wonder if it needs replacing if it's not cracked or broken. One review says crowns can last about 7 years, but some people may have crowns that last as long as 15 to 20 years. Although a cracked restoration obviously needs to be replaced, there can be other factors that could indicate the need for crown replacement, such as discoloration, soreness around the gumline, and increased mobility.

5 Common Misconceptions About Tooth Pain

If you have ever had a toothache, you know that it is one of the worst types of pain. When your tooth hurts, you can hardly concentrate on anything else but the pain. Although many people have dealt with toothaches, there are still many misunderstandings about them. Here are some common misconceptions about tooth pain that you should not believe. If Your Tooth Hurts, You Must Have a Cavity Many people assume that a toothache automatically means that they have a cavity.

What Is Periodontal Disease? (And How To Treat It)

When you receive a periodontal disease diagnosis from your dentist, you probably have a few questions, such as how the illness will impact your teeth and what you can do about it. This article will cover the basics of periodontal disease to help get you informed on your new diagnosis.  What is periodontal disease? Periodontal disease refers to the inflammation of the gums that hold your teeth in place. With the gums inflamed, they will struggle to provide the teeth with the proper structure.

Smile With Confidence: A Comprehensive Patient Guide To Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for people who are missing one or more teeth. They are small, metal posts surgically placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are an excellent option because they look and feel just like natural teeth and will last a lifetime with proper care. Consultation The first step in getting dental implants is to schedule a consultation with a dental implant specialist.

5 Things You Should Know About Root Resorption

Did you recently have a visit to the dentist where you were told that you have an issue with root resorption? If so, you may have some questions about this dental problem and what you need to do about it.  What Is Root Resorption? Root resorption is a condition where the root of a tooth will dissolve or erode, causing it to essentially disintegrate. It can cause the root left behind to be shorter or weaker, which will affect the health of the tooth.

Telltale Signs You Will Qualify For Dental Implant Surgery

Your dental expert may recommend getting implants whenever you lose a tooth or several of them. After all, they understand that implants are a permanent solution that will promote your oral health and enhance the functionality of the dental system. For instance, you will be able to speak normally, and your chewing abilities won't be affected.  Also, your facial structure will not change because the jaw bone will remain strong after the missing root is replaced with an implant.

3 Reasons Regular Dentist Appointments Are So Important

If you wake up with an excruciating toothache, calling your dentist to schedule an appointment is likely going to be your natural reaction. Unfortunately, if you are like many people, you may not be quite so eager to schedule an appointment with your dentist if you are not experiencing any tooth pain or other dental problems. The reason that this is so unfortunate is that there are several benefits that come along with visiting your dentist on a regular basis.

Clear Teeth Aligners | A New Way To Achieve The Perfect Smile

If you're looking for a new way to achieve the perfect smile, clear teeth aligners may be right for you. Here's what you need to know about clear teeth aligners and how they can help you achieve the beautiful smile you've always wanted. How do clear teeth aligners work?  Clear teeth aligners use a series of custom-made trays that gradually move your teeth into place. WebMD states that each tray is typically worn for two weeks before being replaced by the next in the series, and you'll need to wear your clear teeth aligners for 22 hours a day for the best results.

Why Dentists Often Recommend Dental Implants

When you and your dentist decide to have your teeth replaced with dental implants, a titanium rod will be inserted into your jaw in most cases. This is a procedure that is somewhat invasive, and you might wonder why your dentist might recommend this. A dental implant is one of the best ways to replace a missing tooth. Dentures Vs. Dental Implants With other methods of tooth replacement, such as dentures, the dentures do not always remain in place inside your mouth.

Dental Needs That Your Family May Have

There are many medical and healthcare needs that your family will have. While individuals may be primarily focused on meeting the major healthcare needs of their family members, it is also important to recognize the full range of potential dental treatments that may be required. Regular Cleanings And Evaluations Regular cleanings and evaluations can be an integral part of maintaining your overall dental health. Unfortunately, individuals may not be as diligent as they should be when it comes to visiting the dentist for these evaluations and cleanings.

Have A Genetic Jaw Disorder? Why You Need To See A Prosthodonitist

A genetic jaw disorder can cause your jaw to become misaligned or cause other issues. A jaw that is deteriorating can have its own issues and make it difficult to keep your original teeth or have any false teeth or other devices put in your mouth. It's important that you work closely with a prosthodontist so you can get the prosthodontist care and treatment you need to thrive. If you have a genetic jaw disease, there are many treatments you can try to get the care you need.

Looking For A Replacement For The Root Of Your Missing Tooth? Dental Implant Options To Consider

 A dental implant mimics your natural tooth. A tooth implant is usually done when a person has lost teeth due to certain reasons. Some of these causes can be aging, decay of teeth, and trauma, among others. In addition, a dental implant can help boost your self-esteem, improve physical appearance, and help in the better functioning of the teeth, to list a few. Here are dental implant options that you can choose from depending on your issue and budget.

3 Big Benefits Of Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most popular ways to replace a lost or missing tooth. That said, not everyone is ready to have a dental implant procedure performed at a moment's notice. You may have a number of questions and concerns regarding dental implants and whether or not they are right for you. While individual circumstances vary, there are numerous benefits of dental implants that everyone should know about. Keep reading to discover just a few of the biggest advantages.

Three Questions About Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Did your dentist tell you that your wisdom teeth are growing in and need to be extracted? If so, you likely have a few questions about this dental procedure before you have it done. Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed? A dentist will only recommend extracting your wisdom teeth if they feel like they are going to cause a problem. This is often due to the teeth growing in at a weird angle, which will cause them to become impacted with your rear molars.

Three Types Of Dentures You Can Get From A Dentist

If you have ever lost a permanent tooth/teeth, then you have experienced firsthand the challenges associated with living with missing teeth. Some of the most common challenges faced by persons with missing teeth include: Trouble chewing food A sense of over self-consciousness while smiling Reduced sense of self-esteem while talking to others However, dentists use various treatments and prosthetics to alleviate the above challenges. One of the most commonly utilized prosthetics is a denture.

Finding The Right Dentist To Handle Your Dental Implant Procedure

If you are considering dental implants, your family dentist is not the person you want to handle the procedure. A dental implant dentist specializes in implants and oral surgery, so they have the experience and training to put the implants in place correctly, ensuring your implants last for years without problems. Understanding Implants You should understand how dental implants work before you decide to have an implant dentist put them in for you.

Three Considerations To Make Before Deciding To Get A Dental Implant

Dental implants serve as effective long-term replacements for missing or badly damaged teeth, and they require consideration on multiple fronts before they are chosen as the best option. Considering long-term effects based on your health, the cost of implants, and possible alternatives if implants don't prove viable are all important to ensure you receive the best dental care. Long-Term Effects Generally, dental implants are considered to be a very effective method of restoring the look and function of a missing tooth.

Can Anyone Get A Dental Implant?

Dental implant surgery is effective for replacing missing teeth. Even though dental care in the United States is advanced, millions of people still suffer tooth loss. The problem emanates from injuries, gum ailments, and tooth decay. Thankfully, implants can help restore confidence and a smile in these patients. Learn about the requirements for you to qualify for a dental implant. Who Is the Right Candidate? The right candidate for dental implants should have healthy teeth and gums.

Signs You Need A Cosmetic Dentist

Knowing how to fix your smile anomalies and teeth-related issues that downgrade your self-esteem can take you places. If you suffer damaged, decayed, or lost teeth issues, a visit to an experienced cosmetic dentist can restore your smile. Indeed, cosmetic dentistry is the new fix for oral problems that mess with your dental aesthetics. Various teeth-related problems confine people to small social circles. If you're self-conscious about your missing or discolored teeth, you can consult a reliable cosmetic dentistry office in your area.

How to Find a Medicaid Dentist Right for Your Family

If your family has Medicaid, finding a dentist that takes this insurance is key to allowing you access to affordable dental care. The good news is many dental practices accept Medicaid, and many of these practices are within a short drive for patients for easier access to dental care. If you are worried about being able to get children's dental care for your kids, use this guide to help you. This guide can be used to compare various dental practices to one another as well.

The First Four Days After Your Dental Implant Surgery

After dental implant surgery, it will take up to two weeks for your incisions to heal fully, and then it will take another few months for the implants to integrate into your jaw bone. In other words, it's a long recovery process — but don't let that intimidate you! After the first four days, patients are able to pretty much go back to normal, other than staying away from the chewiest, crunchiest foods and paying more attention to oral hygiene.

3 Signs It Is Time To Invest In Dental Crowns

Unhygienic oral practices, genetic factors, and poor eating habits can damage your teeth and make your smile unattractive. Infected or damaged teeth can damage your social life and limit you from enjoying the foods you like. Fortunately, dental crowns can restore your attractive smile and enhance your overall oral health. Dental crowns will not only restore your oral aesthetics, but they will also strengthen your damaged teeth, restore oral functions, and prevent further damage to your teeth.

3 Good Reasons To Request Sedation For Your Next Dental Procedure

Some more involved dental treatments, like implant placement, are almost always performed under sedation. Others, like fillings and crowns, are routinely performed without sedation. However, as the patient, you can always request sedation for any dental procedure during which you prefer to be sedated and less aware. Most dentists will comply; they would rather have a nice, calm patient than an anxious one! But why might you request sedation for a routine procedure like a filling?

What Happens At The Dentist When You Have Tartar And Stains On Your Teeth

Have you not been to the dentist for a while and have a lot of tartar and stains on your teeth? If so, you're likely wondering what the dentist is going to do about it. If you can see visible staining on the surface of your teeth, it has likely extended down below the gums as well, which means it can lead to gum disease if you do not have it taken care of.

Procedures Used In Dental Implant Dentistry

Dental implant dentistry is one of the innovative procedures that has changed the dental industry. It has significantly helped people who lose their teeth due to age, accidents, or medical issues. Dental implants are synthetic tooth roots that support tops, such as dentures, crowns, and bridges. The implants are usually surgically fixed in or on the jawbone using several procedures, and it is vital to be informed about these procedures before you get dental implants.

Reasons Your Child Might Need A Tooth Extracted

Taking kids to the dentist is a good idea from the time they are very young as this helps them to have healthier, stronger teeth. Dental visits are also important for catching problems, and one of the services your child might need at some point is a tooth extraction. Children may need to have a tooth extracted for several reasons, and here are some of the top reasons for this procedure.

3 Reasons To Remove Seemingly Problem-Free Wisdom Teeth

Though the average mouth has room for 28 teeth, many people have four additional teeth that try to erupt at some point. These teeth are known as wisdom teeth. Many wisdom teeth try to erupt through the gumline, but they aren't able to because there isn't enough room. When this happens, your wisdom teeth are said to be impacted. Not all impacted wisdom teeth cause pain or obvious problems. If your wisdom teeth aren't currently causing you any issues, you may wonder why you should have them removed.

2 Body Parts That Should Be Healthy Before Your Implant Surgery

A dental implant is a versatile device that is used in the replacement of one or more teeth. Implants replace the roots of lost teeth. The versatility the devices lies in their ability to support a myriad of crown-replacement appliances, such as dental bridges or dental crowns.  When a dentist places an implant, he inserts the device through the gums into the jawbone. The procedure is performed in-office and typically only requires local anesthesia.

4 FAQ About Dental Crowns

When you think of a crown, you think of something that goes on top of the head. That is kind of what a dental crown is like, as it goes on top of the tooth. There are various situations that may require a dentist to place a dental crown. A damaged tooth is the most common reason. Some people put a dental crown on a discolored tooth in order to improve its appearance.

Three Things To Know About Dental Veneers

Everyone has a desire to have great looking teeth. Thankfully, there are dental procedures that can be used to fix cosmetic problems that would otherwise be difficult to change. Dental veneers are one way to do it, which is done by taking a thin porcelain shell and attaching it to the front surface of the teeth. Dental veneers are quite unique, which is why you may want to know the following three things about them.

What To Do When A Baby Tooth Is Knocked Out Of Your Child's Mouth

Baby teeth will eventually fall out of a child's mouth, but there are also times when a baby tooth will get knocked out of a child's mouth long before it would naturally come loose and fall out. If this happens to one of your child's baby teeth, here are several things you should know. Locate the tooth The first thing you should after this happens is locate the tooth. While you really do not necessarily need it, it is important to locate it to make sure it is not stuck in your child's mouth somewhere, as this could be a choking hazard.

Why Pediatric Eye Care Is So Important For Your Growing Toddler

One of the best parts of being a parent is watching your infant grow and develop into their own person. It's wonderful to see as your child's personality begins to show itself in so many funny ways and you would do anything to make sure that your little one is always able to be healthy and happy. Regular visits with the pediatrician are essential but there are other medical professionals out there who can help your toddler as well.

2 Ways To Take Care Of Your Dental Health

You need to make sure you take great care of your teeth if you want to have good overall health. There are numerous steps you can take to improve your dental health. 1. Always, Always Brush The importance of brushing cannot be overstated. Set aside four minutes of your day to at least brush your teeth. You should brush your teeth in the morning and evenings for two minutes each. Remember to take a few seconds to quickly brush your teeth.

Tips To Help You Make Dental Care A Priority

You take the initiative to change the batteries in the smoke alarms in your home to prevent things from going very bad if a fire should occur. Do you take the same initiative when it comes to dental work? Many people don't take their dental health as seriously as they should, which results in things getting worse over the years. Many dental issues can be prevented with preventative care. Here, you'll find a few tips to help you stay on top of your dental care schedule.

2 Tips For Preventing Stains On Your Ceramic Braces

If you opted for ceramic braces over the old-fashioned kind with metal brackets, you may love how the material blends in with your teeth, making the braces hardly noticeable. However, if you do not take proper care of the braces, they may stain and start to stand out. While wearing your ceramic braces, use the following tips to help keep them from staining. 1.  Avoid Stain-Causing Substances One way to keep from staining the ceramic brackets of your braces is to not subject them to stain-causing substances in the first place.

3 Reasons You May Require A Tooth Extraction

One of the most common dental surgeries in having a tooth extracted, which is the act of pulling a tooth out of its socket from the bone. This particular surgical procedure can be performed for both children and adults, which means that both temporary and permanent teeth can be pulled. It is best if permanent teeth are not extracted, but in some cases, it is necessary. Here is a look at three reasons why a tooth extraction may be necessary as an adult.

How to Help Your Teen Adjust to Their Braces

Braces will ultimately give your teen a straighter, more perfect smile that they are thankful for. But the first few weeks with those braces can be anything but pleasant. Here are a few ways that you, as a parent, can help your teen adjust to their new braces. Stock up on soft foods they love. You may be surprised to see that the list of foods to actually avoid with braces is pretty short.

Oral Rehab: What It Is, And Why It's Nothing Like Muscle Exercise

A full mouth rehab by your dentist is nothing like physical rehab or drug rehab. In fact, you could say that an oral rehab falls somewhere in between in terms of difficulty and pain. Here is more about what this set of procedures is, and why it is nothing like anything you have ever experienced before. Pull All of the Dead Teeth ​A mouth that has been prescribed this level of treatment is often full of dead and/or rotting teeth.

Correcting Negative Dental Changes That Occur With Age

As a person ages, they may notice that their smile is becoming increasingly unattractive. Cosmetic dentistry applications can help correct negative changes to the teeth and gums that may occur over time. Here are a few changes that the teeth and gums of an older person nay suffer and how a cosmetic dentist can correct them. Yellow Teeth The color of your teeth may change as you age. Not only do colorants from the drinks and foods that you ingest build up in the pores of the tooth enamel, but some of the enamel may wear away over time.

Questions You Should Ask When The Dentist Says You Need A Procedure

When you visit a dentist to get your teeth cleaned and examined, the dentist will let you know if there are any problems present with your teeth. If there are problems, the dentist will explain the problems and the treatment for them. Before you agree to go through with the procedures the dentist recommends, you may want to make sure that they are absolutely necessary, and you can do so by asking your dentist the following questions.

Why Gums Bleed When You Start Using a Water Flosser

Integrating a water flosser into your daily oral health routine can really give a boost to your gums, teeth, and overall oral health. However, it's not uncommon for people to experience some bleeding from their gums when they first start using their water flossers. This is nothing to be alarmed about. Like standard flossing, many people experience bleeding at first only for it to go away after regular care. Here's why your gums are bleeding from your water flosser.

How Gender Differences Play Out In Dental And Oral Health

Many things can affect your oral health, but did you know that your sex may have an influence on your dental and oral health? Here are some of the factors that may trigger these differences: The Prevalence of Dental Anxiety Dental anxiety, which manifests itself as the intense fear of going to the dentist or getting dental treatments, manifests itself in different frequencies in women and men. For example, some research shows that women experience more dental anxiety than men.

Looking Forward To Dental Implants? Why It's Important To Stay Positive

There's no denying that dental implants are one of the best restorations out there. Dental implants can: Prevent gum recession Maintain bone density Improve speaking Improve smiling aesthetics Eliminate the need for dentures and other semi-permanent options While you may be very excited for these outcomes, you do need to realize that with any surgery, there are mental and emotional challenges to get through. Medical News Today says that many people who go through surgery suffer from depression.

Problems Caused By Underbites

If your lower jaw sticks out further than your upper jaw, it means that you have an underbite. While having an underbite might make you feel self-conscious, it can cause a lot of other problems too. Here are some important things to understand about underbites and the problems they can cause. You might have trouble chewing Depending on the severity of your underbite, you might notice that chewing food is sometimes difficult.

How To Avoid Dental Implant Failure

Dental implants offer a safe, reliable and attractive way for you to restore your beautiful smile without the complications offered by ordinary dentures. While the overwhelming majority of patients go on to enjoy a lifetime of great smiles, there are a few cases where dental implants have failed. The vast majority of dental implant failures come from trauma, poor dental hygiene, and a variety of other health factors. Practice Good Dental Hygiene

Understanding A Few Dental Filling Complications

Cavities are extremely common. In fact, they are one of the world's most common health issues. Since dental decay is so common, then you can also expect fillings to be everyday procedures. The good news is that you are likely to retain healthy teeth and few issues after the cavity is removed. However, like any other medical procedure, complications can happen. Keep reading to learn about a few of them.

Scaling And Root Planing: Why You Should Get It Done Before Dental Implants

If you don't need to get bone grafting done before your dental implant surgery, you may be eager to get that appointment scheduled. However, it's often recommended that patients do a scaling and root planing (SRP) beforehand. Although dental implants have a success rate up to 98%, SRP can only improve your chances of success. Read on to learn more about SRP and why it is vital for dental implants.

3 Ways Epilepsy Drugs Can Harm Your Child's Teeth And Gums

If your child has a seizure disorder such as epilepsy, he or she has probably been prescribed medications to decrease the frequency and severity of seizures. While effective in controling the symptoms of epilepsy, these medications can lead to significant side effects such as sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, and gastrointestinal problems. In addition, anti-epileptics can cause significant oral manifestations. Here are three ways epilepsy drugs can harm your child's teeth and gums and what you can do about them:

3 Reasons You Should Get Braces As An Adult

If you find that you avoid showing off your smile or feel self-conscious when you do smile, it is time to consider getting braces. Regardless of your age, braces can help straighten and correct your smile so that you feel confident when it is time to show off those pearly whites. Check out a few reasons getting braces as an adult may make sense for your situation. 1. Properly Spaced Teeth are Less Likely to Get Cavities

Making Cosmetic Changes At An Affordable Price

If you have less-than-perfect teeth and gums, you may be wondering what your options are if you are on a budget; after all, many cosmetic procedures aren't covered by insurance. Thankfully there are some reasonably priced cosmetic dentistry procedures that could work for your situation. Here are a few to consider. Dental Bonding Some people confuse dental bonding with veneers. While porcelain veneers are technically bonded to your teeth, they can be thousands of dollars for a single tooth.

How To Reduce Sensitivity After Whitening Your Teeth

Teeth whitening is a dental procedure that can give your smile a new luster relatively easily, transforming your entire appearance. However, while the process is relatively straightforward and carries few side effects, it can increase the sensitivity of your teeth in the short term. Thankfully, there are a few different things that you can do to minimize the amount of discomfort that you experience in the weeks following your teeth whitening procedure.

Considering Dental Bonding? 3 Things To Be Aware Of

Dental bonding may be the answer to your issues about how your teeth look. It is fast, minimizes permanent teeth damage, and is versatile in its different uses. However, there are some things to be aware of when it comes to using dental bonding. Know How Bonding Material Reacts To Whitening Procedures If you're using dental bonding for cosmetic reasons, you should consider having your teeth whitened before the dental bonding is applied.

Why You Should Get Your Teeth Whitening Supplies From The Dentist

If you wish to whiten your teeth, you can get your teeth whitening supplies and materials from the dentist or buy them over the counter. However, getting your supplies from the dentist has several advantages over using OTC products, such as: You Benefit From Pretreatment Evaluation Teeth whitening is usually a straightforward affair, but there are a few things that may complicate the process. For example, not all stains can be handled by peroxide bleaching; it only works for extrinsic (on the surface) stains and not intrinsic (under the surface) stains.

Making Your Holiday Gift-Giving Lists? 4 Dental Care Gifts To Give Your College Kids

With the holidays approaching so quickly, now's the time to start thinking about those unique gift ideas. If your kids are away at college, you want to give them gifts that they'll use, and they'll appreciate. Instead of getting them the usual clothes and electronic gadgets, get them something that will provide them with lasting benefits. Give them the gift of dental care. Here are four dental care gifts your adult kids will love:

5 Things You Might Not Have Realized About Dentist Checkups

Most people are aware of the fact that a typical dentist visit involves checking for cavities and cleaning teeth. However, there are some other important reasons to keep up with regular dentist checkups that you might not have known about. The following are five things you might not have realized about dentist checkups: 1. Your dental health has a highly significant impact your health overall. A lot of people make the incorrect assumption that dental health is something very distinct from general health.

A Dental Appliance Might Help With Your Sleep Apnea - Here's What To Expect When You Get One

A dental appliance could be a suitable treatment for your sleep apnea. If it works, you might be able to avoid using a CPAP machine, at least for the current time. Your doctor will determine if a dental appliance is safe to try based on your condition. If so, you'll need to go to a sleep apnea dentist to have the device made. Here's what to expect. The Dentist Makes A Mold Of Your Mouth

4 Reasons to Visit the Dentist if You Are Pregnant

If you are pregnant, you probably already know the importance of regular prenatal checkups with your OB/GYN, but you might not know that seeing the dentist during pregnancy is also important. Here are some of the many reasons you should consider scheduling an appointment with your dentist if you are expecting. Morning Sickness Whether you experience morning sickness in just your first trimester or all throughout your pregnancy, it can have an adverse effect on your teeth.

Why Clear Braces Are Your Best Bet If You Have Thin Enamel

When your teeth are healthy and young, they typically have a strong layer of enamel that helps to protect them from bacteria and damage. However, with age and use, that enamel can become thinner and less effective at protecting your teeth. If your dentist has diagnosed you as having thin enamel on your teeth and you're interested in having your teeth straightened, invisible braces are your best bet. Here are the three main reasons why you should choose invisible braces instead of standard braces.

Getting Ready For Some Serious Summer Adventures? 3 Steps To Take In A Dental Emergency

Summer is the time for fun outdoor adventures. If you like to take things to extreme, it's also the time for potential dental injuries. If you're faced with a dental emergency this summer – especially one that involves the loss of a tooth, you'll need to act fast. To make sure you're prepared, here are three steps you should take if summer activities result in a dental emergency. Stop the Bleeding

Understanding The Cause And Treatment Of Root Fractures During Root Canal Treatment

Root canals are not a lot of fun. This is why your dentist is only going to suggest the treatment if you absolutely need it. Root canals are completed when your tooth is infected or when the internal tissues are damaged. The treatment may also be necessary to prevent a future infection if a crown needs to be cemented into place. While root canals are necessary, complications can arise. The fracturing of the dental root is one such complication that your dentist will try to avoid.

The Advantages Of Choosing Bonding To Fix A Cracked Tooth

If you have a chipped tooth, then your dentist will investigate the injury to see if the internal tooth pulp has been damaged. If the pulp is in good health and the chip is superficial, then a cosmetic approach may be taken to make the chip appear less noticeable. You have a wide variety of options that include crowns and veneers. You can also choose bonding. Keep reading to learn about some of the advantages of this treatment.

3 Prosthodontics Treatments For A Chipped Lateral Incisor

A lateral incisor tooth located near the front of your mouth helps the central front teeth in grabbing onto food for chewing. When a lateral incisor tooth chips, you might find biting food difficult or painful and can experience self-esteem issues due to the highly visible location of the chipped tooth. There are a few different dental treatment options available for a chipped lateral incisor from a dental clinic in your area that specializes in damaged tooth correction.

Tooth Whitening Options

A whiter smile can help improve your confidence, especially if you have dark stains or uneven discoloration. When it comes to whitening, you have several choices. The following guide can help you choose the best method for your teeth. At-Home Whitening There are a variety of products on the market that allow you to whiten your teeth on your own. All of them consist of a whitening gel, which usually contains peroxide, which is applied to the teeth and left in place for several minutes.

Tooth Preparation - What To Expect When Veneers Are Added To The Teeth

Dental veneers are tooth coverings that can drastically change the appearance of the teeth. If you have cracked, stained, and uneven teeth, then veneers can definitely make them look more appealing. However, you should understand that veneer placement requires some careful preparation. If you want to know what to expect, then keep reading. Dental Enamel Grinding Most porcelain dental veneers are extremely thin. The tooth coverings are around one millimeter thick and cover the front and top sides of the teeth.

3 Keys To Taking Good Long-Term Care Of Your Dental Implants

If you are going to get dental implants, the goal is for the dental implants to last for the rest of your lifetime. Ideally, you will not have to replace your dental implants or have additional work done on them. Here are three keys to ensure that your dental implants last and that you don't need any follow-up work. #1 Allow Your Dental Implants To Heal The first thing that you need to do is make sure that you allow your dental implants to heal properly when they are first installed in your mouth.

Pregnant And Need Braces? 3 Tips For Managing Orthodontic Treatment During Pregnancy

Your life has hit an exciting new phase. Not only are you looking forward to a brand new smile, but you will also be welcoming a little one to the world in a few short months. While many new moms have concerns about how their orthodontic treatment might impact their pregnancy, you can rest assured that you and your baby will remain perfectly safe. Pregnancy does, however, create a few minor challenges that you can easily overcome by talking to your orthodontist and using these three strategies.

Put Down the Fork! Four "Healthy" Snacks That Are Bad for Your Child's Teeth

As a parent, you try to feed your child a nutritious diet. Due to the prevalence of added sugar, it can be tricky finding a snack that is good for their body and their teeth. Think twice before serving these four snacks to your children. 1. Fruit Snacks You may be tempted to give your children fruit snacks as a healthier alternative to candy. Not only are many brands chock full of sugar, but the stickiness of the fruit snacks often spells disaster for your child's teeth.

Avoid Scary Smiles With These 3 Tips For A Tooth-Friendly Halloween

Your kids are starting to talk about the costumes they want to wear and the haunted houses that they want to visit this Halloween. While Halloween is a fun holiday for both kids and adults, your child's dentist may not be as enthused about the festivities. Halloween candy is not only a recipe for an increase in cavities, studies also show that emergency dentist visits for cracked teeth take a major jump on Halloween – to the tune of an 80% increase compared to an average day in October.

3 Dental Applications To Securely Restore Your Lost Teeth

If you have lost several teeth, you are probably anxious to have them replaced as soon as possible. However, you may be hesitant if you have ever seen a prosthetic dental device slip embarrassingly out of place. It can be difficult to hold a dental appliance in position with only the natural suction from your mouth. Still, there are multiple dental applications available to securely restore your lost teeth. Here are a few of them:

Tips For Helping Your Kids Prevent Cavities

If you are a parent, you likely want your kids to be as healthy as possible. This is good because it will allow your kids to lead a long, fulfilling life. It will also make it easy for your kids to maintain their tooth health when they are adults because they won't have any lingering dental issues to deal with. However, kids can sabotage your best efforts at helping them stay free of cavities.

Wishing You Had A Better Smile? How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Help

When you look in the mirror and give yourself a little smile, you may find yourself thinking and wishing that your smile was somehow different or better. If you want to turn those wishes into a reality, you may want to look into some of the different options that cosmetic dentistry can offer you. Get to know the treatments provided by a cosmetic dentist so that you can decide if you can get the smile that you imagine when looking in the mirror every day.

Not Happy With Your Teeth? 3 Ways Cosmetic Dentistry Can Bring Your Smile Back

If your teeth have you avoiding social situations, you should talk to a cosmetic dentist. Many of the problems that can make you self-conscious about your teeth can be corrected through cosmetic dentistry. If you're not sure how cosmetic dentistry can help you, here are three procedures that will dramatically improve your smile. Remove Stains and Discoloration Stains and discoloration can make you want to hide your teeth. Things like coffee, tobacco, and even certain medications can dull your smile and leave you with unsightly stains that are impossible to remove with home whitening kits.

Answers To Common Wisdom Teeth Extraction Questions

Needing to have wisdom teeth extracted is a fairly routine procedure that many people will need to go through. However, it can be common for patients that need this procedure to be fairly uninformed about it. If this applies to you, it might be advantageous for you to learn the answers to these commonly asked questions regarding wisdom teeth removals. Why Do You Need To Have The Wisdom Teeth Extracted?

How To Prepare And Maintain Your New Dental Implant

Experts suggest that there are over 3 million people in the United States who currently have dental implants and believe that number is growing by about 500,000 a year. With so many dental patients choosing dental implants as an option to correct a problem with their teeth and mouth, the need to understand how to care for that implant is important. Not only is important to care for the dental implant after it is placed in your mouth, but you want to care for the area before and during the restoration process as well.

Broadening Your View: What You Need To Know About Your Palate Expander

So you've just learned during a routine visit to the orthodontist that you're going to have to have a device called a "palate expander" glued into your mouth before your adventure in orthodontia is complete, and you're a little lost at sea. If you're looking for simple but in-depth information on how your expander will work, how it will feel, and how long you'll have it, then here's what you need to know.

Reasons To Prevent Your Child From Sucking A Bottle During Bedtime And Naps

If you are having trouble weaning your child from a bottle, you may have concerns about his or her oral health. Baby bottle decay is a condition that occurs due to the exposure of a child's teeth to decay-causing sugars from the use of a bottle, especially during times of rest. Here are a few reasons to prevent your child from using a bottle during naps and other periods of rest.

From The Past To The Future: High-Tech Cavity Prevention Tools You Should Know About

The usual way you go about preventing cavities in your mouth is to follow a few simple rules: brush twice a day, floss once, and use mouthwash if you're trying to be the cleanest you can be. But for some people who are more prone to cavities than others, all the brushing and flossing and swishing of mouthwash in the world can still end with the dentist proclaiming those dreaded words – "

Toothache Treatments For Home Care

If you are getting toothaches, the best thing you can do is to get in to see the dentist as soon as possible. However, you may be left dealing with the pain for a day or so before you are able to be seen. Toothaches can happen for a lot of reasons, a few examples being cavities, exposed nerves, broken teeth, infections and gum disease. There are things you can do to help your tooth feel better while you wait to be seen.

The Process Of Getting A Dental Implant

Having a dental implant is a drawn out process. It takes a few return visits to the dentist that are spread out over the span of several months. Tom many patients this is a stressful process. However, if you know what to expect, it is not too bad. You can be prepared and have less stress leading up to each visit. Removal of the Existing Tooth An implant becomes necessary when so much of the tooth has decayed that it is basically beyond repair.

How To Care For Your New Dental Veneers

The process for getting dental veneers involves shaving off a layer of the enamel on your teeth. This means that you must keep your dental veneers for the rest of your life, because having them removed will expose the surface of your teeth due to the missing enamel. Not taking care of your dental veneers can lead to them prematurely failing, becoming discolored, or tooth loss that will cause veneers to fail.

Effects Of Lactic Acid On Your Teeth

Keeping your teeth healthy involves preventing cavities from forming, and most people try to do this by brushing and flossing their teeth. Brushing and flossing are extremely helpful for this purpose; however, it is also important to understand how cavities form. To understand this, you will need to know what lactic acid is, where it comes from, and how it damages your teeth. What Is Lactic Acid? Lactic acid is a harmful substance to your teeth, and it comes from the foods you eat and the bacteria that lives in your mouth.

2 Cosmetic Dental Services To Transform Your Smile

Although ultimately it's what's on the inside that counts, physical appearance has always been important to societies across the globe. How you carry and present yourself can either open or close doors for you. If there's one thing that stands out about a person, it's their smile. Here are two ways cosmetic dentistry is used to improve the look of your teeth: Bleaching Who doesn't want a whiter smile? One of the reasons we brush our teeth, aside from eliminating putrid breath and avoiding gum disease, is to brighten our smiles.

When Is A Dental Problem An Emergency?

If you're having a new dental issue, you may be wondering if it requires immediate care. How do you know what's an emergency and what can wait for an appointment? Here are issues that require emergency dental care:  1. Filling or crown falls out If you have a filling or a crown that falls out you will know almost immediately. You will experience sensitivity to temperature and the tooth will throb when you bite or clench your jaws.

Options For Dealing With Damage From Grinding Your Teeth

If you have the habit of grinding your teeth, some of your teeth may be damaged. When you grind your teeth, you wear down the enamel. This changes the shape of some of your teeth. Your front teeth may become flat across the top, like they've been filed down. Your teeth could also develop chips and sharp points. This damage can be repaired, but you should also address your grinding habit so further damage is prevented.

3 Things You Should Do To Properly Care For Your Toothbrush

Many people know how important it is to brush and floss their teeth daily. They do what they can to keep their teeth clean without realizing that the toothbrush that they are using is not as effective as it could be. Toothbrushes can carry bacteria, become damaged or just become overall ineffective with improper care. This is why it is important that everyone understand how to care for their toothbrush so that they can get the cleanest brush possible.

Sedation Dentistry 101 : A Guide For First-Time Patients

Even though going to the dentist is not always a dreadful event, there are many people who feel their heart skip a few beats at the whole idea of even simple procedures, such as having a cavity filled or a bad tooth extracted. As many as one in five patients have a sincere fear of the dentist, and if you consider yourself fearful, sedation dentistry is likely to be a form of treatment you have considered.

FAQs About Dental Implants

You have many options available to replace your missing teeth, including dental implants. Implants can be pricey, but they come with a lot of advantages that other teeth replacement options do not. If you are considering implants, here is what you need to know. What Are the Advantages of Implants? The most obvious advantage of dental implants is that they replace any missing teeth that you have. As a result, you are able to eat and speak better.

If You Break A Fang Right Before Halloween, A Cosmetic Dentist Can Help

If you're a vampire, breaking a fang this close to Halloween could be a nightmare physically and socially. No self-respecting creature of the night wants to be seen without his or her fangs intact. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry's come a long way over the centuries, so here's what you can do to fix the problem in a hurry: Get Dental Bonding For A Fast Solution. Dental bonding offers the quickest and easiest way to cover a broken fang.

3 Diseases Affected By The Condition Of Your Teeth And Gums

If you are wondering how to lessen your chance of developing a serious disease, you may only need to reach for your toothbrush and dental floss. Although the way that you care for your teeth directly affects your oral health, it also affects your overall health. Dental health has been linked to diseases that, on the surface, don't appear to be tooth-related at all. Here are a few diseases that are impacted by the condition of your teeth and gums:

4 Tips For Getting Used To Dentures

If you are going to be getting dentures, you want to become educated on the things you can do to get used to them faster. The sooner you are able to get used to the dentures, the sooner you can put an end to the irritation and sore spots. You will also find it easier to eat, talk and even laugh with them in once you get adjusted to them. These 4 tips will help you through the process of getting comfortable with your new dentures.

Teaching Your Child to Enjoy Brushing

If you have a small child, teaching them the importance of brushing their teeth will be one of the many life lessons you will be responsible to teach them. There are several ways to instill positive tooth cleaning practices into your child's daily routine. Here are some ideas you can use to help your child learn that brushing their teeth is an act to take seriously while putting some fun into the procedure.

The Reasons For Using A Dental Implant To Replace Teeth

Whether due to a sudden blow to your mouth or a lack of dental hygiene, you can lose a tooth. Most people will want to replace teeth at the front of their mouth simply to avoid the negative social stigma that comes with a gap-filled smile. On the other hand, if you have a missing tooth in the back of your mouth, you should be able to get away without replacement, right?

Smile Makeover Vs. Full Mouth Restoration - Which Is Right For Right For You?

Although a smile makeover and a full mouth restoration involve many of the same dental procedures, such as dental implants, veneers, gum bleaching, crowns and more, full mouth restorations go much further. Furthermore, smile makeovers are typically elective because these patients only need dental procedures to improve the appearance of their smiles. In contrast, full mouth restorations are something patients need in order to improve the quality of their lives. This is because full restoration candidates may find it hard to eat certain foods because of missing teeth, painful gum disease, jaw pain, loose teeth and more.

Setting Up Dental Appointing For A Child With Special Needs

Children sometimes fear a visit to the dentist. Such fear could make it difficult for adults to make sure young ones go on that all-important yearly trip for a dental cleaning. Parents and guardians of young ones with special needs might discover bringing a child to an annual checkup is even more difficult. Thankfully, new innovations in approaches to dental care are making checkup visits better accessible to children with special needs.

What You Need To Know About Cleft Lip And Palates

Cleft lips and palates probably aren't a sight common to your everyday life, but this condition is actually shockingly common in the United States -- about 1 in every 1000 births, making it one of the most common birth defects in the United States. But, like most developmental disturbances, cleft lips and palates aren't one-size-fits-all and each case comes with its own unique challenges and conditions. If you're curious exactly what having a cleft lip and palate could mean for your future child, then here's what you need to know.

3 Reasons To Consider Invisalign

Invisalign is a great alternative to braces, mostly because of the many advantages that they can provide. The fact that aligners are removable, almost invisible, and made out of plastic are all great reasons to consider Invisalign instead of traditional braces. Removable One of the biggest disadvantages to wearing traditional braces is that they are not removable without an orthodontist's help. This means that if the braces ever get uncomfortable, and they will, you will not be able to do anything about it without making an appointment and asking the orthodontist if he or she can do anything to alleviate the discomfort by adjusting the braces.

Black Or Brown Growth On The Teeth: What Is Happening In My Mouth?

Over the normal course of time, your teeth start building up a layer of plaque. This occurs despite your best efforts to brush after every meal, floss and visit the dentist twice yearly. As you eat, drink, talk, sleep, and breath the normal bacteria in your mouth feed on the carbohydrate particles that are frequently left on your teeth, despite your best efforts. As the bacteria feed on these particles, an acid starts to build up, and plaque is formed.

Replacing Your Missing Or Damaged Teeth: Exploring Your Options

Whether your teeth were damaged as the result of trauma or decay, the ability to replace your missing and damaged teeth can play a huge role in restoring both beauty and function to your smile. Thankfully, there are two highly effective tooth-replacement options available to help you accomplish this goal. These options are the use of dentures or dental implants. While both of these options will offer some rather impressive benefits, it is important to note that not all patients will be good candidates for both of these options.

What Are The Possible Complications Associated With Dental Implants?

For many years now, people have been relying on dental implants as a solution for their missing teeth. What exactly are dental implants, you may ask. Well, dental implants, also known as teeth implants, are artificial anchors that are usually fixed into a person's jaw bone to permanently support dentures or crowns. As with any surgical procedure, dental implants come with their share of complications and other problems. The following are the most common complications associated with dental implants.

2 Things Your Dentist Wants You To Stop Doing

As you politely chit-chat with your dentist, you might wonder how they really feel about your teeth. Are your teeth worse than your husband's? Why are your gums so sensitive? Although your dentist might answer your questions with the finesse of a professional, he or she might wish that you would quit your bad habits. Here are two things your dentist wants you to stop doing, and how they could affect your teeth:

2 Reasons To Stop Delaying That Root Canal Appointment

Root canals are a common dental procedure in which the dentist opens up a tooth to clean out an infected section inside. The procedure usually becomes necessary when a tooth becomes painful or when a widespread dental infection can be traced back to a single tooth source. Cost and misconceptions about the procedure might have you procrastinating on making a root canal appointment. Here are two reasons you might want to make that dental appointment today.

Loose Or Fractured Dental Implant? 3 Causes And Treatments For Failed Dental Implants

Although problems are rare with dental implants, they have been known to pop up from time to time. As someone who has dental implants, you should be able to recognize the signs of failure so that you can have your implant evaluated by your dentist as soon as possible. As with most things, failing dental implants are better treated if they are dealt with early. Therefore, it's vital that you understand common causes for implant failures and how to recognize them.

Don't Leave Out Your Tongue From Your Dental Hygiene Routine

Ask many people about their dental care habits and few will mention doing anything with their tongue. Good dental hygiene consists of taking care of all of the structures in the mouth: teeth, gums and tongue. Learn why leaving your tongue out of your routine means that you're not doing the best dental hygiene you can. What Your Tongue Does For You Your tongue is essentially a large muscle that is used to move food around in your mouth and for speaking.

Answers For A Couple Of Common Dental Care Questions

Dental care is is one of the medical areas that many people make the critical mistake of overlooking. However, this can result in major damage to the teeth, and these damages can cause your smile to lose some of its aesthetic appeal. While your dentist can help keep your smile beautiful, there may be a couple of questions you need answered.  Why Do Teeth Develop Sensitivity? Sensitivity to temperature extremes is a very routine problem that many dental patients will encounter.

The Benefits Of Dental Implants Over Dentures

Deciding on dental implants is a big decision because getting an implant requires surgery. Before you decide on getting an implant, here are 3 benefits to consider for implants versus dentures. Long Life First, dental implants have a long life span and are permanent. The actual implant or screw that goes into your jaw bone for a single implant should never have to be replaced through rest of your life.