How Often Should You Brush Your Teeth?

shutterstock_169885871Brushing your teeth is a critical part of your oral hygiene routine in order to keep your mouth healthy. Although, there is a proper way to brush your teeth and a not-so-efficient way. In order to maximize your health, using a soft-bristle toothbrush works best around your gum line and on your teeth. Work in small circles to get rid of any bacteria that’s hiding and be sure to brush for an entire two minutes. How often should you brush your teeth? It’s recommended that you’re brushing at least twice per day – although if you’re prone to bacteria and infection, you dentist may recommend that you brush more often. (more…)

Do You Have Bad Breath?

shutterstock_205579387Although most people wake up with bad smelling breath, it should go away after you brush your teeth and eat breakfast. If you find yourself consistently keeping your mouth shut in fear of someone smelling your breath – it could be a sign of a more serious problem. Do you have bad breath? It could be that you have periodontitis – or gum disease – because the bacteria that causes this infection is also odor-causing. Odor-causing bacteria that’s taking over your mouth could definitely be the culprit behind your terrible smelling breath. (more…)

What Constitutes A Dental Emergency?

shutterstock_159253544Dental emergencies should be dealt with as soon as possible – whether it’s by your dentist or another dentist who is equipped to handle such situations. However, many patients are unsure of what is considered an emergency versus a situation that could potentially wait. What constitutes a dental emergency? Generally speaking, most anything that threatens the stability of your tooth warrants a visit as soon as possible to your dentist. Usually, this includes a broken or chipped tooth, inflammation, and an abscessed tooth or gum tissue. The sooner you can get to your dentist, the less likely you are to lose your tooth. (more…)

Is There A Treatment For Snoring?

shutterstock_172959194Are you constantly waking your partner up at night with your loud snoring? If so, you and your partner are probably wondering, “is there a treatment for snoring?” Sometimes, finding a cure for your snoring can be as easy as changing your sleep position or opening your nasal passages. However, sometimes loud persistent snoring can be a sign of a sleep disorder known as sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is caused from a blockage in your airway limiting the amount of oxygen your body is receiving, typically resulting in abrupt awakenings in order to catch your breath. (more…)

How Do Dental Implants Work?

shutterstock_100424281If you’re missing teeth, chances are you’ve looked (or are looking) into your restoration options. Ah, the great debate – what would work best for you? A visit to your dentist will get you started with determining how extensive the damage to your mouth is and how you can begin the restoration process. How do dental implants work? These “new teeth” are installed directly into your gums all the way to your bone – which is it’s required that you have a good amount of bone density in order to qualify for this restoration option. (more…)

Is TMJ Dangerous?

shutterstock_139302251Temporomandibular joint disorder occurs when your jaw muscles become irritated or inflamed and cause the joint that connects your jaw bone with your skull to have difficulties moving and adjusting. This joint allows your mouth to yawn, chew, and talk. So, is TMJ dangerous? Besides the uncomfortable pain that it causes, untreated TMJ disorder can suffer increased pain the longer it goes untreated and it can turn into chronic migraines and unbearable tension. It could also cause other issues such as; tooth loss, bone damage, and even malnourishment when you attempt to avoid certain foods in fear of pain – the answer is yes, TMJ is dangerous. (more…)

Sleep Apnea; Is That Why You're Tired?

smithsleepapneaSleep apnea shows in all different forms – from snoring to abrupt awakenings – but, it impedes on your sleep. Is that why you’re tired? Absolutely – actually, one of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea is consistent sleepiness throughout the day. If this is something you’re experiencing, you may want to visit your dentist as they could help you begin the process to diagnosing your sleep apnea. Don’t lose hope – there are many different treatments to help your sleep disorder, you won’t feel this exhausted forever. (more…)

What Are The Benefits Of Dental Crowns?

smithdentalcrownsIf you have a damaged or decayed tooth, chances are your dentist has recommended that you get crowns put over your tooth (or teeth) to protect them. Dental crowns are also used atop dental implants in order for them to have the shape of a tooth. What are the benefits of dental crowns? There are a multitude of benefits surrounding crowns – cosmetic appeal, resistance to stains, durability, speech restoration, and protection. If you think you could fix or restore your tooth with a dental crown – it’s time to give your dentist a call. (more…)

Enjoy a Healthy Holiday with Preventive Dental Tips

Healthy Smile this Holiday with Preventive CareThanksgiving is a great opportunity to enjoy your favorite foods with your family and friends. Unfortunately, all the feasting can sometimes take a toll on your teeth. Too many sweets, in particular, can wreak havoc on an otherwise healthy smile. Fortunately if you’d like to start the new year with great teeth and gums, there are a few simple steps that can help make it possible. From limiting how much pie you put on your plate to how frequently you floss, caring for your smile is simple with a few preventive dental tips. (more…)

Can Fillings Harm Your Mouth?

smithtoothfillingA tooth filling helps to protect cavities that have formed in your teeth due to bacteria and decay. Fillings help to prevent the bacteria from causing further decay around your mouth. Dentists are able to use several different types of material in order to achieve this – gold, porcelain, composite resin, and amalgam are all materials that can be used. Porcelain or composite resin are both materials that closely resemble the natural color of the tooth. Determining what material is right for you will be a conversation that you have with your dentist. Can fillings harm your mouth? (more…)