To some, dentures seem like such a simple solution to oral problems. They’re not. Research has shown that adults who are totally edentulous (missing all of their natural teeth) die at an age that is ten years earlier, on average, than those who have their natural teeth. Research also indicates… Read More…

In my office, I see some pretty rugged guys — some who have fought in wars, have jobs that are physically challenging, and can cut massive logs into neat wedges for firewood as efficiently as a machine. I’ve also seen these men (and women) break down in tears as they… Read More…

When it’s time to have your car serviced, the mechanic has an opportunity to make sure belts, brake pads, fluid levels, windshield wipers and fuses are all working properly. He’ll check the tires for worn tread and either recommend tire rotation to minimize further wear or replacement. These service visits… Read More…

Over the years, I’ve sat in a number of new patient Consultations hearing ‘horror stories’ of dental experiences with a rough or impatient dentist. The experience stays with some people for many years and prevents some from even being able to walk into a dental office. Even though I’ve helped… Read More…

Root canal therapy can be required due to a number of reasons. A tooth’s nerve and pulp can become irritated due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, large fillings, a crack or chip in the tooth, or clenching and grinding your teeth at night. A ‘root canal’ is the natural… Read More…

It’s not unusual to see a new patient who complains of having jaw pain, some for many years. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located in front of the ear on each side of your head, connecting the lower jaw to the skull. The jaw joint is one of the most… Read More…

Although many adults feel that brushing their teeth twice a day is sufficient for maintaining a healthy mouth, these measures fall short of preventing cavities and gum disease. It is estimated that only 12% of the adult population in the U. S. floss their teeth daily. Additionally, many adults fail… Read More…

If you fear going to the dentist, you are not alone. It is estimated that over 30% of Americans avoid going to the dentist because of some level of anxiety or fear. Even worse, about 10% of those are classified as “dental phobics,” or persons with such a high fear… Read More…

A crown (referred to by some as a ‘cap’) is a tooth-shaped cover placed over a tooth that is broken, cracked, fractured, worn or decayed. Crowns are necessary to protect teeth that have fillings that make up too much of the tooth. A crown is also useful in saving a… Read More…

In the dental profession, we often see decay that seems reoccurring. While some people are more susceptible to an oral bacteria that is particularly harmful to tooth enamel, the real culprit is often in our hands, not our DNA. In conversation, patients will occasionally admit they sip on a soda… Read More…