Quiz: What Do You Know About Gum Disease?

When you understand what kind of threat gum disease poses to your smile’s long-term condition, you can understand why this problem should be taken seriously. Some people may be inclined to dismiss the severity of the issue because an infection is asymptomatic, meaning it does not cause pain. If an infection is not addressed in time, you can develop advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, which is permanent. Look for signs like swelling, a tendency to bleed, or a reddening of tissue. Your dentist can actually use laser treatment for a more precise, modern treatment of this issue. (more…)

Correcting A Crooked Smile Without Using Braces

Cosmetic work provided by your dentist can make big changes, and some of the effects they can provide may surprise you. People whose smiles are affected by misaligned teeth often assume their only option is to have orthodontic correction through traditional braces. The idea of using bracket and wire braces can be off-putting, especially for adults who fear they will look less mature. What you should know is that in some cases, you can correct a crooked smile with clear aligning trays, and avoid having your appearance affected. If you qualify, your dentist can help by offering an adjustment using Invisalign, or with ClearCorrect clear braces. (more…)

Is It Time To Consider A Teeth Whitening Treatment?

If you are dissatisfied with the color of your teeth, even after using store bought products, you may want to ask your dentist about a professional whitening treatment. While whitening toothpastes and other over the counter products can help with surface stains, the stains under the surface of your enamel can persist. By relying on bleaching agents, the whitening gels supplied by your dentist can attack those deeper stains. After a session with a professional teeth whitening, you can witness a remarkable change to your appearance. Of course, there are patients whose discoloration issues stem from other concerns. If you are struggling with intrinsic discoloration, talk to your dentist about the other cosmetic dental treatments that can help you. (more…)

Taking Good Care Of Your Smile While On The Road

As the weather continues to warm, and we start moving closer to the Summer months, you may be planning some sort of adventure (or misadventure) on the open road. Road trips can make for great vacations, and great bonding experiences with friends and family. Unfortunately, those long trips may make it harder for you to prevent dental problems. If you want to make sure your smile stays in great condition out on the road, pay attention to the snacks you choose, and be sure to take time out to brush and floss effectively. Tartar, which has to be removed through a professional dental cleaning, needs relatively little time to form. (more…)

A Root Canal Can Stop Issues Caused By Advanced Tooth Decay

Advanced tooth decay is no minor inconvenience. Without intervention from your dentist, a cavity that infiltrates the interior of your tooth can destroy that tooth, and allow for the continued spread of bacteria. When you need advanced restorative dental care, your dentist may need to address an internal infection by performing a root canal treatment. While many people are familiar with the term “root canal,” preconceived ideas about the procedure may have made you wary. What you should understand is that this treatment is important for those who need it, as it can do what is needed to save your tooth, and stop persistent dental discomfort. (more…)

Taking Care Of Your Smile After A Dental Emergency

A dental emergency can hijack the course of your day. You may have had any number of plans, but they can be wiped away by the onset of significant dental pain, or an injury that affects one tooth, or multiple teeth. Your dentist will make sure they are available to you as soon as possible when you suffer a dental emergency. They can address any immediate concerns, so that your oral health does not suffer excessively. However, they can also work with you to make sure your smile still looks great. The type of care you ultimately need will depend on the severity of the problem you suffer. (more…)

Incorporating Laser Treatment Into Your Dental Visit

How can lasers improve on your traditional dental experience? One area where lasers can be helpful is in the realm of preventive oral health care. Using lasers to remove worrying soft tissue, which can be biopsied, to check for potential worrying conditions like oral cancer. Your dentist can also use it to help with cosmetic treatment, and to prepare you for more involved work. Using lasers in dental procedures can mean more precise treatment, and faster healing. If you have any questions or concerns, your dentist can discuss how this modern treatment method can advance past the typical dental experience. (more…)