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…

Smokers already know they are taking health risks. However, many are unaware of the negative oral health issues when it comes to tobacco use. For example, research shows that smokers lose more teeth than nonsmokers. According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, about 20% of people over age… Read More…

Want to save yourself from costly and time-consuming tooth and gum problems? Read on to know where most of the problems begin, and how to avoid them. Plaque is a sticky substance in the mouth that results from chemical reactions when bacteria, carbohydrates, food particles, and saliva combine. When food… Read More…

We always urge patients to react to any unusual sore or discoloration in the mouth or on the lips. Oral cancer is one of the most deadly of all cancers when not caught early. However, this time of year, it seems that canker and cold sores are more prevalent. Do… Read More…

There was sad news for baseball fans recently. Tony Gwynn of the Padres, as well as a Hall of Famer, died of oral cancer, something Gwynn blamed on his use of smokeless tobacco. Apparently, the habit is rampant throughout Major League baseball teams. A 1999 survey found that nearly a… Read More…

If one of your New Year’s Resolutions is to quit smoking, here are some added reasons to stick to your commitment. Your smile — teeth, gums, throat, lips, all soft tissues in the mouth — will thank you as much as your lungs! Publicity campaigns have helped to make the… Read More…

The mouth is like a door to the entire body. So, it’s not surprising that occasional symptoms are indications of some common problems, such as: •Bad Breath: This typically occurs from an overload of bacteria in the mouth. The bacteria that break down food in your mouth excrete odor-producing materials…. Read More…

Recently, actor Michael Douglas revealed that his former claim of having, and conquering, throat cancer was false. He admitted to actually having cancer of the tongue, a form of oral cancer, sharing his reason for hiding the true diagnosis was to protect his career. Because of the radical surgery requirements… Read More…

Oral cancer is cancer of the mouth and most commonly involves the lips or the tongue. It may also occur on the gums, roof of the mouth, under the tongue or lining of cheeks. If the cancer is found early, before it can spread to other tissues, the survival rate is… Read More…

There will never be a substitute for regular tooth brushing and flossing to help avoid developing periodontal (gum) disease.  Combined with regular dental check-ups, having a thorough home care commitment is paramount in avoiding bacterial build-up. However, because people are more susceptible to oral issues, here are ways to bolster… Read More…