There are a number of studies that suggest that oral health and gum disease are related to serious conditions like heart disease. Although the precise link between periodontal (gum) disease and heart disease hasn’t been pinpointed, there is strong evidence that the two have a connection. According to the American… Read More…
As a dentist, I’ve heard every reason in the book why people don’t floss. And, for every reason, there is an even better one why they should! Flossing removes food particles that become wedged between teeth. It also helps remove the sticky buildup of bacteria that forms plaque. Keeping oral… Read More…
While your six-month cleanings and exams remove plaque and tartar, many people fail to have an effective routine at home. When a thorough regimen of oral hygiene at home twice daily is not followed, the potential to develop early stage gum disease increases greatly. This can result in symptoms of… Read More…
Maintaining a clean, healthy mouth should be a top priority for American adults. Yet, it is often taken lightly until something hurts. To illustrate the domino effect of bacteria buildup in the mouth, follow its typical path below: • Failure to brush and floss on a regular basis allows bacteria… Read More…
Natural teeth have an enamel coating, which serves as armor that protects against invading bacteria. Weakened enamel makes you susceptible to cavities and costly structural damage to teeth. Although you cannot regrow enamel that has eroded, you can protect remaining enamel and strengthen teeth so they are more resistant to… Read More…
Contrary to what many older adults think, losing natural teeth is not a normal part of the aging process. Periodontal (gum) disease is the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss and is easily preventable with simple measures applied on a daily basis. To determine those most at risk for… Read More…
Although the success rate for dental implants is very high, about 95%, dental implants can fail. Knowing what contributes to implant failure before you have implants placed can help you enjoy a successful treatment outcome. Some health and lifestyle issues can complicate the body’s ability to enable implants to integrate… Read More…
You may have seen a TV commercial for a nail fungus treatment. To illustrate its presence, the fungus is portrayed by a nasty-looking cartoon character. The ‘creature’ is representative of living cells that decompose nutrients. Although it is a viewer-friendly way to think of nail fungus, fungi are actually ugly… Read More…
When someone has bad breath, it can hit you like a boxing glove. Unfortunately, it can also make a lasting impression, and not a good one! In addition to cavities and gum disease, bad breath, also known as halitosis, is among the top three reasons people go to the dentist…. Read More…
If you take antihistamines, aspirin, asthma medications and syrups, you may be taking one that makes you more vulnerable to tooth loss. It is estimated that about 40% of Americans take at least one type of medicine that can cause damage to their teeth. These medications include prescription drugs and… Read More…