Teeth grinding may not seem like a serious issue. In fact, you can even do it in your sleep without knowing. But, if you engage in this habit regularly, you could have a condition known as bruxism. Our team checks each of our patients for signs of bruxism during general...
It’s no secret that life is busy. However, if you’re cutting corners by skipping your regular dental appointments, you could be causing more harm than good. And, yes, it still applies even if you practice good oral hygiene on a daily basis. The Dental Touch team in Oakland, California, provides general and cosmetic dentistry services in a...
There’s a reason dentists and patients love dental implants — when you need to replace a tooth, it’s the closest you can get to the real thing. That’s because it functions like a natural tooth root. Our team at The Dental Touch loves the results implants provide people with missing teeth. We even offer state-of-the-art...
Even if you love your dentist, you probably don’t rush to schedule your appointments. However, over 60% of people worldwide admit they have dental anxieties, fears, and phobias. In the United States, those feelings keep approximately one-third of people from getting the dental care they need. Unfortunately, like most things, trying to ignore a...
Our teeth take center stage every time we smile, so it’s easy to focus entirely on appearance alone. However, there’s more to a tooth than meets the eye — and that’s when a root canal comes into play. A tooth has several layers. On the very outside, you find a...
Gum disease is never a good problem. But, in its earliest stages, a thorough cleaning is sometimes all you need to clear up the issue. However, as gum disease worsens, you can need more involved forms of treatment, like the Pinhole Surgical Technique®. Our team specializes in treating gum disease...
It’s easy to take teeth for granted. However, the average American adult has lost 12 permanent teeth to injury, decay, or gum disease by the time they reach age 50. And these numbers only increase for those between 65-74 years of age — 30% of whom no longer have any natural teeth left at...
If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth, there’s more to consider than your smile. That’s because better tooth alignment does far more than improve your appearance and confidence — and now it’s easier to straighten your teeth than you think. The Dental Touch team relies on the Invisalign® system at our office in...
Who doesn’t love cutting corners or saving time in the hustle and bustle of everyday life? While it’s always tempting, one area you shouldn’t skimp on involves your teeth, especially with whitening. When it comes to transforming your smile, nothing beats teeth whitening. After all, it only involves whitening solutions designed...
If you need your wisdom teeth removed, you’ve probably heard of the dreaded “dry socket.” This painful dental condition occurs when the blood clot that develops at your extraction site doesn’t form or becomes dislodged. Without it, nerves and bone in the area become exposed, slowing the healing process and causing significant...
It’s amazing how a beautiful smile can completely transform your attitude. If yours could use a little help, it doesn’t get easier than professional teeth whitening treatments. The Dental Touch team in Oakland, California, offers the most trusted bleaching treatments available, whether you want to get dramatic results in one office visit or on...
If you’ve ever looked into straightening your teeth, you’ve probably come across the Invisalign® teeth straightening system. After all, it’s been straightening teeth for more than 20 years, and it’s only become better with time. There are a lot of things you probably already know about Invisalign — like how you can remove...
It’s hard not to love Invisalign®. After all, it can get you the straighter smile you’ve been dreaming of without the discomfort or hassle of traditional braces. But is it as effective? The short answer is usually yes! The Dental Touch team in Oakland, California, trusts Invisalign to resolve mild...
When people think of dentures, they often assume they have to replace all of the upper or lower teeth in their mouth. However, you can also get partial dentures. This option replaces one or more missing teeth. Unlike full dentures that sit on top of your entire gum, a partial...
There’s really only one reason to get dental implants: to replace missing teeth. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, this dental solution involves anchoring a metal post in your jaw that supports a tooth replacement — like a crown or denture — on top. But what sets dental implants...
It’s hard keeping up with everyday life. So scheduling appointments twice a year for professional dental cleanings can seem like an easy place to cut corners, especially when you practice perfect oral hygiene every day. However, these preventive visits play a crucial role in protecting your oral and overall health,...
In the past, you needed to spend the night in a special sleep clinic to diagnose and treat problems like sleep apnea and snoring. However, now you can find help for these disorders, along with teeth grinding, by visiting a dental sleep specialist. Our experienced dentists at The Dental Touch...
Unlike the rest of your adult teeth, wisdom teeth often come late to the party. In fact, they usually don’t make an appearance until your late teens or early-to-mid 20s. And, even then, not everyone has them. In an ideal world, your wisdom teeth — also known as third molars...
If your smile has lost its luster, it’s time to explore professional whitening treatments. Unlike over-the-counter options you can find at the drugstore, dental systems like Zoom! offer safe, reliable, and even instantaneous results. Our skilled dentists at The Dental Touch in Oakland, California, rely on Philips Zoom! in-office and...
There is a reason why dentists love veneers: They offer flexible and affordable solutions for numerous dental problems. In fact, this one treatment can address issues like: Chipped, cracked, broken, or worn teeth Gapped or misshapen teeth Staining and discoloration However, just because veneers can provide immediate results, they won’t...
Cosmetic dentistry is an area of dental medicine that focuses on creating beautiful smiles. These specialized techniques involve everything from whitening treatments to tooth replacement and straightening systems. At The Dental Touch in Oakland, California, our team understands that no two smile makeovers are the same. Whether you need one...
It’s easy to put off scheduling those routine dental visits, especially when you practice good oral hygiene on a daily basis. However, general dentistry goes far beyond addressing dental issues alone. But these appointments do far more than preserve your smile. Our team at The Dental Touch provides general, cosmetic,...
Periodontal disease — or gum disease — goes by many names. In the early stages, we call it gingivitis. As it worsens, it turns into periodontitis. However, it always means you have bacteria in your mouth causing gum inflammation. The problem with gum disease is that it causes your gums...
You may not know the clinical term “bruxism,” but you’ve probably caught yourself clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth at some point in your life. However, when it becomes frequent or severe, it’s time to see your dentist. Approximately one-third of adults grind their teeth throughout each day. But...
When it comes to gum disease, there’s good news and bad news. The bad news is that the advanced stages affect approximately 64.7 million people — or half of Americans 30 or older. Unfortunately, this chronic inflammatory disease doesn’t stay confined to your mouth. Instead, it increases your risk of...
When people think about missing teeth, they usually focus on the cosmetic issues, like how it will affect their smile. However, losing a tooth jeopardizes your oral health and compromises the strength and stability of your jaw because there’s more to a tooth than meets the eye. Our team recommends...
We know what you’re thinking: Why visit the dentist every six months if you brush at least twice a day and floss, too? The short answer is that there is only so much that even the best brushing can do. Our team at The Dental Touch provides individualized care in...
Some dreams can feel out of reach. But that’s not the case if you’ve always wanted straighter, more perfect teeth. In fact, Invisalign® makes it easier than ever to get the smile you’ve been dreaming of — at any age. Our skilled team at The Dental Touch in Oakland, California,...
The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered dramatic changes throughout everyday life — and in the medical community as well. Not only are providers across the country postponing elective procedures, but many are also encouraging people to avoid in-office appointments to reduce their risk of exposure to this highly contagious coronavirus.But what...
Whether your teeth have lost their luster or have imperfections, there are ways to completely revitalize your smile fast. And our team at The Dental Touch in Oakland, California, can help. Here are a few ways a simple office visit can give you a dazzling smile this holiday season. Teeth...
Even if you practice perfect dental hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing religiously, you still shouldn’t skip getting professional teeth cleanings. These routine dental appointments should take place every six months and include: A visual exam of your gums, teeth, and tongue A comprehensive cleaning to remove plaque...
Hearing the word “implant” can be scary. But it’s actually what sets this dental solution apart when it comes to replacing missing teeth. At The Dental Touch in Oakland, California, our team considers dental implants an ideal solution for missing teeth because of the role the implant itself plays in...
You’ve probably heard the terms gingivitis, gum disease, periodontal disease, and periodontitis. But do you know what they actually describe and how they put your teeth at risk? At The Dental Touch in Oakland, California, our team can help identify gum disease in its early stages and provide innovative treatments,...
Approximately 22 million Americans have sleep apnea, but that’s not the only problem that can interfere with a good night’s sleep. At The Dental Touch in Oakland, California, our team of sleep specialists can help determine if you experience teeth grinding, snoring, or sleep apnea, and you never have to...
If you have dental imperfections making you self-conscious about your smile, veneers could answer all of your problems. Veneers work by bonding a thin shell made of porcelain or resin composite to the front of your tooth. This approach conceals dental issues and enhances your tooth's appearance. At The Dental...
When COVID-19 reached the United States, health care providers, including dentists, had little choice but to prioritize urgent and emergency services. As a result, many nonessential but vital preventive appointments ended up postponed. These steps helped minimize the risk of virus transmission and preserved personal protective equipment (PPE) for providers...
Nothing can send you to the dentist faster than a dental emergency. But what is a dental emergency, and what should you do leading up to your appointment? Our team at The Dental Touch in Oakland, California, offers these general guidelines to help you understand what constitutes a dental emergency...
You probably know that gum disease has a lot to do with your dental health. But did you know it goes far beyond that? At The Dental Touch in Oakland, California, our experienced dental providers can help you understand the risks of gum disease and provide you with the information...
Many people hear the words “root canal” and wince in anticipation of an extremely painful dental procedure, but that doesn’t need to be the case. Root canals actually relieve unbearable tooth and jaw pain so you feel better than you did before the procedure. Here at The Dental Touch, a...
Excessive gingival display, otherwise known as a gummy smile, is when your gum tissue overshadows your teeth. While a gummy smile isn’t always a sign of a dental problem, it can affect your self-confidence. So, what causes a gummy smile and can you get rid of it? Approximately 10%-29% of...
Getting a good night’s sleep is something most people know they need, but very few actually achieve. In fact, an estimated 70 million Americans report having at least one sleep-deprived night per month, and one in 10 report never getting sufficient sleep. When it comes to sleep apnea, a serious...
The holidays are here! That means work parties, dinners with friends, and family get-togethers are quickly filling up your calendar. There’s no denying that the holidays are a magical time to reconnect with the ones you love. That’s why you should look and feel your best this year. There’s no...
Tooth loss is a very common problem in the United States. One-third of adults between the ages of 20 and 39 are missing at least one tooth. That statistic goes up to two-thirds of adults aged 40 to 64! Patients have to have teeth extracted for many different reasons. Some...
There’s little doubt that Invisalign® clear aligners revolutionized orthodontic care. Now, instead of unsightly metal bands cemented to your teeth, you can transition from a crooked collection of teeth to an even, aligned smile using virtually invisible and removable dental trays. Simply take your Invisalign trays out to eat and...
Picture-perfect smiles almost never happen naturally. Most of us have cosmetic flaws like crooked teeth, uneven spacing, or other problems that detract from the way our smiles look. And in many of those cases, beautiful, durable porcelain veneers are a great solution, correcting those flaws so our smiles look attractive...
When it comes to straightening your teeth, it’s easy to focus on the cosmetic benefits. After all, having straighter teeth makes your smile look a lot more attractive and even downright sexy, and that means it’ll help you feel more confident, too. But a better-looking smile is just one benefit...
Close your eyes...the next 10 seconds take yourself back to the middle of July in the height of the BEST SUMMER of your life. YOU had no worries. The air was filled with beach music, children's squeals and crashing waves. A warm sea breeze carried the scent of coconut oil....
If you’re not happy with your smile, it can take a big toll on your self-confidence and your self-esteem. Located right in the center of your face, your smile is one of the first things people notice about you and one of the first features to make a lasting impression....
White teeth look great, and they make you feel more confident, too. If you’re having your teeth professionally whitened, here’s how you can make sure those beautiful results last as long as possible. Prepare your teeth properly The first hint for helping your whitening results last happens before your treatment...
When it comes to misleading names, “wisdom teeth” take the cake. Just the word “wisdom” makes it sound like these teeth are something everyone would want; after all, who couldn’t stand a little more wisdom? But in fact, wisdom teeth can be a real hassle — and in some cases,...
Your smile plays a major role in both your self-confidence and self-esteem, and for good reason. Planted right there in the middle of your face is your smile. Your teeth are among the first features people notice about you. It’s not surprising that those same people may make assumptions about...
About 3 million people in the United States have dental implants, and that number is expected to grow by about a half-million each year, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. One of the biggest reasons why implants have become so popular is because they are designed to look,...
How would you like to enjoy straighter teeth and a more attractive, healthier-looking smile without metal or ceramic braces? With Invisalign® treatment at The Dental Touch, you can. And there’s a good chance you could get the straight, gorgeous smile even faster than you could with traditional braces. Top benefits...
If your smile isn’t as white as you’d like it, you might consider dental veneers to add a whiter shade than may be possible from your natural teeth, even with professional treatment. It’s the secret behind many a Hollywood smile. However, brightness is only one dental condition that veneers can...
You know when meeting someone the first time, a bright smile makes a great impression. So, it’s logical to want the same for yourself. Yet, daily living is full of tasty food and drink that can compromise the whiteness of your teeth. Keeping your smile its whitest takes a well-rounded...
Your teeth are tough and once they come in, they’re designed to go the distance with you. But sometimes their journey is a harder one, and decay or trauma requires that they be replaced. While there are plenty of options for replacing missing teeth, none come close to dental implants...
Visit The Dental Touch today to fit your child for a mouthguard. When your child plays sports, it is easy to think of the equipment you need to get in order to protect them from danger on the playing field. You think of shoulder and knee pads, shin guards, and even...
Along with those gray hairs and inevitable smile lines, your mouth undergoes natural changes over the years, as well. Among them: Cutting edge of teeth are worn flat by chewing or grinding. Remember to keep regularly scheduled hygiene appointments to check for cavities. Consider dental sealants to prevent decay, or...
Few things are as versatile as dental crowns. We use them in our Oakland dental office to solve a wide variety of challenges. They can be used to strengthen your teeth, protect them, and to improve their appearance. If you need a solution that works as hard as you do while...
Surprising but true: the major cause of tooth loss in adults is not decay, but periodontal disease. More than half of all people over age 18 have at least the early stage of periodontal disease. After age 35, about three out of four adults are affected. Some people seem to be...
It started out as an unconventional theory. But now, more and more scientists, physicians and dentists are seeing the connection between gum disease and potentially fatal heart attacks. What would a problem with your gums have in common with an ailing heart? Researchers began by looking at heart attack patients...
If you have not had a professional dental cleaning in Oakland lately, it is time for you to visit our dental office. Clean teeth and gums keep your smile bright and your mouth healthy. Continue reading for more reasons you should visit for a cleaning today. Cavity Prevention Even with regular brushing...
Potential Warning Signs We have come a long way in the treatment of serious, life-threatening systemic diseases. Part and parcel of healing more aggressive diseases are—more aggressive therapies. And sometimes as a result of forceful care, complications arise that demand attention of their own: oral problems. When an individual is...
Eating & Drinking Don’t let it continue throughout the day. Limit to 4 or 5 periods. This especially includes apple juice, raisins. Residual fruit sugars easily damage baby teeth. Restricting unlimited contact between food and teeth is the most important factor in preventing cavities! Brushing Remember: thorough brushing is more...
There’s only one good thing about a visibly damaged tooth: here, clearly, is where the pain’s coming from and where our response will be focused. But complaints of “tooth pain” without a clear source or origin—now, that’s something else entirely. Say you’ve been good with your hygiene, faithful in your...
It’s such a common habit, yet most of the time we never know we’re doing it. Not cracking your knuckles or biting fingernails, but intense clenching and grinding of your teeth—known in dental terminology as bruxism. The reason this phenomenon goes unnoticed so often is that “grinders” usually perform when...
We sure can try, but your help is needed, and the most important word is TIME. When a permanent tooth is knocked out, the less time it is out of the mouth the better. In fact, the best results are obtained when the tooth is replaced within 30 minutes! A...
As a cosmetic dentist, we have several solutions for correcting your damaged teeth or even replacing them, including dental implants and dental bonding. Regardless of whether you have functionality issues that we need to address or you have some aesthetic challenges that are embarrassing, we can help. Here are a few...
Oral Health Tips when Having a Baby You’ve got the glow of a mother-to-be. Keep it with these tips for better oral health for you and your baby. Now you’re eating (and brushing, flossing and keeping dental appointments) for two. Make an appointment at the outset of your pregnancy for...
Today’s Dentistry is Virtually Pain-Free There’s a bright new trend in dental offices these days: More people are making appointments because they want to, not because they have to. What is it about a visit to the dentist that feels this good? One simple, wonderful fact: In most cases, the...
Why You Should Quit Smoking While nobody enjoys getting lectured about a bad habit, it’s important to have all the relevant information available to you, especially when it involves health implication. So if you need any extra motivation to help you quit smoking, we’ll discuss some of the lesser known...
Dentistry, like any other science, has evolved over time. We’ve come a long way from the old days of “drill and fill” to a new era of sophisticated technology and technique. And along with this growth has come a new understanding of sterilization and infection control. With a variety of...
Dentists and researchers aren’t completely agreed about the cause of nightly tooth-grinding or bruxism. But they are aligned on two points: at least partly, it’s related to daily stress, and it’s happening to more people. It may sound funny, but it’s no joke: without food to absorb the impact, teeth...
We’d like to offer one comforting and wonderful fact about today’s dentistry: it’s comfortable, even pleasant. Technology, new procedures, and some very sophisticated approaches to anesthesia have all contributed to painless treatment, from cleaning to cavity preparations to root canal therapy. But what if you didn’t grow up with modern...
Periodontal Disease FAQ Answers to your most frequently asked questions about gum disease. Q: Why is gum disease so terrible if it doesn’t hurt? Periodontal disease is a progressive one—meaning if it doesn’t stabilize or show signs of healing, it’s bound to get worse. Even when it doesn’t hurt, untreated...
Without Speaking A Word! Looking into your open mouth, we see so much more than teeth. In many ways, it’s a window into the health of your entire body. Things like vitamin and mineral deficiencies are easily detected—and just as easily treated. Problems that might in the future become serious...
Dentures for Missing Teeth Harrison Ford took a nasty fall and lost two of his teeth. Thanks to modern dentistry, he went on to become a major Hollywood star. For as long as we humans have been losing teeth, we’ve been filling the gaps. Early dentures were made from ivory,...
Respiratory Diseases & Asthma Beware of the oral complications of this respiratory disease In years past, asthma attacks could be unpredictable and difficult to control. Today, medications have been developed to control attacks—in some cases preventing them from occurring at all. If you—or a member of your family—still suffer the...
It’s Summer! Close your eyes .. Then next 10 seconds take yourself back to the middle of July in the height of the BEST SUMMER Of your life. YOU had no worries. The air was filled with beach music, children’s squeals and crashing waves. A warm sea breeze carried the...
Snoring Treatment Oakland, CA Do you snore, and has your partner compared it to the sound of a giant band saw slowly slicing through the house? Ever wake up groggy and grumpy after a “full night’s sleep?” If the answers are “Yes” and “Yes,” you could be suffering from sleep...
A History of Digital X-Rays X-rays are critical to the practice of dentistry. And the benefits are profound. But dentists are sometimes guilty of dismissing patient concerns, as in, “Don’t worry, you’ll be fine.” We do believe the judicious use of X-rays is in our patients’ best interests. But patients...
Halitosis Treatment Oakland, CA Social embarrassments come in many sizes. But chronic bad breath is near the top of the list. It affects those nearest and dearest to us and may limit the close social contacts we treasure most. Worse yet, a person with bad breath may be unaware he’s...
Sifting Fact From Belief Dental researchers call it The Fluoride Story—the most dramatic turn-around of a populationís dental health in history. So far. The Fluoride Story began as one of many smaller, ongoing stories. And we have research to thank. In university laboratories in the US and Canada, in dental...
TMJ, Mouthguards & Bad Bites No, we’re not talking about being attacked by a junkyard dog. That’s perilous enough. The bite in question here is your own bite—the way your lower teeth and your upper teeth come together. A bad bite can be responsible for several woes you might not necessarily...
Progesterone Medication & Periodontal Disease Women of all ages are prone to changing levels of progesterone in the body. And progesterone—especially when you are pregnant or taking oral contraceptives—causes some bacteria to grow in awesome numbers. Unfortunately, the bacteria associated with gum disease are among them. Are you taking progesterone...
Enhance Your Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry Are stained, chipped, or crooked teeth cramping your smile? Years Ago, the only solution for unattractive teeth was disguising them with crowns. Today, we’ve got better options in porcelain veneers, cosmetic bonding, and teeth whitening. Take porcelain veneers for example, thanks to recent improvements...
If it’s been a little while since your last appointment, then don’t forget to update your health history. Your dental care is part of your total health-care package. Have you: experienced any new allergies or sensitivities? quit smoking (or started)? begun taking new medications, even over-the-counter drugs? had any accidents...
The diet of today is the result of a 50-year increase in consumption of the rapidly absorbed sugars—specifically, soft drinks, commercial juices, candy, and easily digested sugar foods such as cakes, cookies, etc. This change has generally gone unnoticed by consumers, until very recently it has been unquestionably assumed that...
Why Calcium is a Crucial Mineral How important is calcium to us? It’ s very important. Here’s why. It builds strong bones and teeth; helps the heart to beat, muscles to flex, blood to clot, and nerves to send messages throughout the body. Calcium helps to reduce risks of colon cancer,...
One of the tenets of good dental health is obvious—Brush your teeth after every meal. This can help keep your mouth healthy throughout a long life. Another rule should be just as carefully observed: Do NOT use someone else’s toothbrush. Sharing toothbrushes can shorten your life. Be safe, not sorry....
About the only good thing about canker sores is, they’re hidden inside the mouth. Beyond that—they’re painful, annoying, and bound to erupt at the worst possible time. And common though they are, the world has mixed opinions on what causes them and what can prevent them from recurring. Canker sores,...
Ever think of asking your dentist which musical instrument you should play? Few people do. But especially for young people, an early dental analysis–before selecting a musical instrument–can be important. Surprisingly, some instruments–woodwind or brass–can actually help some children who have an overbite problem. Yet, the same instrument can make...
When it comes to most common, not even winter colds strike as many of us as gum infection (periodontal disease). As many as 75% of adults will be a victim sometime in their lifetime. If this infection could grow on your arm, you’d be horrified. Instead, periodontal disease does its...
If you’re one of the millions of caregivers of an elderly patient who perhaps suffers from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, then you probably maintain a checklist of the many daily tasks necessary to care for them. When making your list, don’t forget to include dental health as part of your routine....
Kids’ teeth—paying special attention to them lays a firm foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth. They’re milestones in your child’s development, those first teeth. You mark the date in the baby book when the first baby tooth works its way through the gum. You record the day when that...
Have you ever looked at swatches of wallpaper or carpeting and tried to imagine how it might look in your living room? Not easy to do. Choosing a denture that fits your face—and looks and feels natural—poses a similar problem. You never really know how they’re going to look and...
Vending machines put out all kinds of stuff. But vending machines at work or school can dispense cavities right along with the candy and soda pop that we love so much in afternoon pick-me-ups. So-called soft drinks don’t do teeth any favors. Not even diet soda. That’s because sugar isn’t...
Does your mouth seem uncomfortably dry? Or have you actually been diagnosed with dry mouth (as a side effect of certain types of medication or radiation therapy for cancer)? Either way, here’s what you need to know about your condition: A dry mouth is not only uncomfortable, it’s a cavity-prone...
Just as in any good crime show, the sooner the heroes discover the problem and get to work solving it, the better the outcome. Looking inside your mouth provides us a unique opportunity to detect other potential health problems, particularly the signs of oral cancer. Did you know that you...
Options for Your Treatment Dental care has progressed to where we can now offer you a veritable smorgasbord of choices, a buffet of beautiful smiles. New materials and techniques allow us to treat your teeth more conservatively than ever, and decades of research have gone into developing materials—ceramics, polymer compounds,...
Tooth Cracks Need Attention Every tooth fracture needs prompt treatment. No chip or crack is insignificant. Unfortunately, some cracks are too small to be seen, even by a trained eye. Sometimes the culprit is a hairline crack in what looks like a healthy tooth. You may not be aware of...
Do You Have a Dental Phobia? The bad thing about dental phobia is that it prevents people from seeking the care they need—when they need it. The good thing about it is that, today, we can treat fear as successfully as we treat tooth decay or crooked teeth. Over...
Tooth-related habits, too, can be conscious (brushing and flossing) or unconscious—chewing on pencils, for example. Dental habits become bad when teeth are expected to do things they’re not cut out for—opening bottles, chewing off the little plastic tags on new clothing, trimming nails, and so on. And bad dental habits...
Teeth Whitening Q&A Do you wish that you had whiter teeth? Have you already tried and have been disappointed by the over-the-counter whitening toothpastes and those mail order kits? Well, here is a safe, easy, and successful way that you can REALLY whiten your teeth. Using a professional whitening system,...
Don’t filter out fluoride! In the years since fluoride first was added to city water supplies, dentists have seen tooth decay in kids cut in half. Fluoride really works! If you’ve got youngsters at home, make sure they get all the decay-fighting fluoride they need. There’s nothing wrong with home...
What is a Dental Dam? Throughout your treatment at our office, we want to keep you comfortable and safe while providing the best possible care. During many of our procedures we use a rubber dam (aka dental dam) to help. The rubber dam is a thin sheet that allows us...
MI Paste, a calcium-phosphate remineralizing paste, is a safe and effective way to treat a variety of oral health conditions. It may also be the most effective way to reduce cavities in mature adults, especially when combined with the use of high-fluoride toothpastes. MI Paste can be used to: Reduce...
Without therapy, the wrong oral habits, sooner or later, will cause tooth movement, breathing and speech problems You’d think swallowing is easy as falling off a log. But some of us need help retraining muscles that we’ve been using wrong all along. A “bad” swallow is just the luck of...
As the population ages—more gracefully than ever, of course— we’re keeping more teeth. Along with wisdom and experience, however, come different health problems. Among them, cavities on the surface of the tooth root, what we call root caries. Growing up, most decay is found on the surface of teeth, usually...
Everyone is concerned about money these days. But the only way to save wisely is to calculate your net gain (or loss). We agree that it’s silly to drive 20 miles to save 3 cents a gallon on gas, but it’s just as foolish to skip your dental appointments. With...
A healthy flow of saliva is critical for chewing and digestion, bathing gums, and bacterial control. And we owe it all to salivary glands, three pairs of organs in the cheek and floor of the mouth. Each gland secretes saliva into the mouth via a tube, and this is where...
There’s so much conflicting information regarding drinking alcohol blasting at us these days. A glass of red wine is good? Is even drinking at all a good idea? It’s a matter of proportion. The facts are these. First, alcohol affects women more than men. Because men tend to be heavier...
Where Bad Breath Comes From Most, but not all, bad breath comes from bacterial plaque and food accumulated mainly towards the back of the tongue. The problem is, there are all sorts of not-likely-but-possible other reasons for halitosis: upset stomach, anxiety, inflamed gums, saliva deficiency, infections and removable dentures are among...
Dental Implants to Replace Missing Teeth Once teeth are missing from the jawbone—whether one or many; whether from accident or disease—something very important is missing as well. That’s tooth stability. Any denture wearer will tell you there’s nothing more upsetting than a slipping lower denture and the anxious uncertainty it...
Kids’ Mouths and Stress What does a student facing exam pressure have in common with a World War I soldier—or an 18th-Century British sailor? More than you might think. Kids surviving on junk food and stress are at risk of two retro tooth-and-gum woes: trench mouth and scurvy. Trench Mouth (named...
In many cases it’s the dentist–and not the physician–who has the first opportunity in the early detection of diabetes, because diabetics are especially prone to dental problems. Swollen, tender, bleeding and receding gums, loose teeth, and a sore tongue may not just be signs of poor dental health. They may...
One of the best things about today’s cosmetic dentistry is how dramatically your smile can be enhanced with very simple, conservative procedures. All of us differ in terms of our appetite for cosmetic improvement. But a custom plan can be developed that fits your own particular desire—and comfort level—to a...
Sure, everybody knows dental floss when they see it (we hope), and if you’re in a periodontal program, you may be using miles of it. But do you recognize this gizmo? It’s for “interdental” hygiene, especially useful for people with substantial spaces between their teeth at the gum line. Some...
It started out as an unconventional theory. But now, more and more scientists, physicians and dentists are seeing the connection between gum disease and potentially fatal heart attacks. What would a problem with your gums have in common with an ailing heart? Researchers began by looking at heart attack patients...
Lose a tooth? We can help you choose the right replacement option. CROWN & BRIDGE is a collective phrase for several methods of restoring teeth. When a tooth has been damaged but is healthy enough to save, we place a crown that covers it and binds it together for strength....
In every big city—and down on a lot of farms—”body art” is all the rage. While we begged our parents for discreet earrings, our children are piercing various body parts in surprising places. Lips, tongue, cheeks, even the uvula (the dangling thingie in the back of the throat) are fair...
What is “Tooth Abuse?” Do you absent-mindedly commit Tooth Abuse? These are habits definitely off limits for the health of your teeth: Don’t chomp on a toothpick—it can wear teeth down and get caught in your braces. Stop chewing your nails, pens and pencils—it’s hard on teeth and gums. Leave...
Whether you need a new denture, braces, or a single inlay restoration, you’ll encounter the “goo” dentists use to make an impression – the first step to a perfect likeness of your mouth. In effect, the material you bite into registers a “negative” image, like a photograph. To make a...
What can dentistry do for your self-esteem that all the pots of cream and eyeliner on Madison Avenue can’t? While we agree with the ad men that esthetics motivate how people see us, value us, and respond to us, true natural beauty has to do with good health, not technique...
Periodontal disease, (aka gum disease) is painless in its early stages. So how can you tell if it’s in your future? Take a good look at your gums. Then call us. Do your gums bleed—at all—when you brush? Are your gums swollen, red or tender? Have any permanent teeth loosened?...
We’ve all heard young children speak “baby talk.” Sometimes it can sound endearing—or it may be a speech defect. In early infancy, babies begin to make vowel sounds, usually mastered by age three. Consonant sounds are more difficult and come a little later on. By the eighth birthday, most children...
Is putting baby to bed with a pacifier the way to Sleep Heaven? Or the start of a dangerous habit? Moms, doctors, even dentists have passionate opinions on both sides. As usual, the truth lies pretty much in between. A study published in a recent issue of General Dentistry indicates...
Important Vitamins and Their Sources Here’s our Cast List: Vitamin A; the “B’s” (B1, B2, B3, B6, B12); Vitamins C, D, E, K, and P. Some, like Vitamin C, are old friends; others, like Vitamin P (bioflavonoids) are more mysterious. What they have in common: all can be found in...
Traditionally, doctors and dentists have depended on the tongue to help them diagnose various diseases. And tongues do have a lot to say. For example, scarlet fever is accompanied by a spotted “strawberry” tongue. Burning tongue, a very painful condition, affects primarily post-menopausal women and can reflect systemic problems. Hairy...
A sudden, sharp pain when you bite—that’s seemingly out of nowhere? Most likely, it’s a cracked tooth. Even a hairline fracture in a cavity-free molar can make the most hardy of us sit up and take notice. When you’re visited by this kind of bite-down pain, get to the dentist...
If you’re like the rest of us, now that belt-tightening is the “new normal,” you may already be eating more meals at home, dropping subscriptions, vacationing closer to home. You may also be tempted to cut back on your dental care. But think it over. If a problem has surfaced...
“Meal Replacement” alternatives…How much of the hype is science—and how much is fiction? Like personal aircraft, elixirs offering all the necessary nutrients in a single dose have been a staple of science fiction. For good reason. Athletes seek a power surge. Seniors dream of a healthy dinner which needs no...
Improve Your teeth at Any Age These days, ordinary people are cosmetically enhancing their appeal, stripping years from bodies, faces, and smiles. And dentistry can go a long way in helping you look as young as you feel! Cosmetic vs. Restorative Dentistry What’s the difference? Both have to do with...
Heart Disease and the Periodontal Connection Do you have sore, bleeding gums? Are you worried about your heart’s health, and how much time may still be available to enjoy your life and family? A visit to our office just might help solve all these worries simultaneously! Fighting periodontal (gum) disease...
Dental Problems that Come with Age With people living longer, we, as dentists, recognize that the dental profession must shoulder a new responsibility for enduring dental care. We all hope we’ll live to a ripe old age. At the same time, we want to enjoy the rest of our years...
Minimize Teenage Risks Risk-taking is a normal part of teenage development—and often a growth opportunity for parents, too! Heads up to handling some common dental risks of adolescence so you both stay smiling. Wisdom Comes With Age The wisdom teeth, the third molars, are the last to emerge. They appear...
Choosing the right toothpaste for yourself—or your family—goes beyond the coupon you may have in hand, or bright displays in the marketplace. For your health, you have to think like a dentist. At different times in our lives, dental strategies change, toothpaste requirements change. And product name isn’t half as...
Being mammals, we sport two sets of teeth, the primaries and the permanent. Assuming Mom has already lent strength to her baby’s teeth during pregnancy—beginning from week seven of prenatal life—teeth grow through two stages. In the first permutation, teeth take shape; in the second, the cells are actually transformed...
You might not think that what your MD prescribes—and what your dentist does for your mouth’s well-being—are closely related. But both are significant. If you are contemplating upcoming dentistry like a tooth extraction or an implant, it may be helpful to review which prescribed drugs you are taking for other...
A really dead toothbrush—one badly worn and frayed, not necessarily just old—is like having no toothbrush at all. In fact, you’re probably doing more harm than good if your brush has seen better days. All dead toothbrushes should be given a decent burial. If you have doubts about the life...
Homicide: bad word. It means killing another human being. Germicide? For many, good word. It promises to kill what are hated and feared most in this super-sanitary era: germs. Germ is sort of a catchall that refers to any microorganism we can’t actually see. That’s sort of like referring to...
If your goal is healthy teeth for life, then you need fluoride. It ensures newly formed teeth are strong; prevents plaque, caries, and gum disease; and protects roots that get exposed as gums recede over time. This essential mineral is present in what we eat and drink, but a healthy...
Through the day, you check the mirror—your hair, your collar, your hem. Ever open your mouth to see what’s inside? You should, and not just when you feel pain or find blood on your toothbrush. You should routinely examine your oral orifice for any changes. Watch for red or white...
The bad thing about dental phobia is that it prevents people from seeking the care they need—when they need it. The good thing about it is that, today, we can treat fear as successfully as we treat tooth decay or crooked teeth. Over six million people experience some degree of...
Do you enjoy eating fresh, hot pizza? If so, you may have experienced a common mouth injury—”pizza burn.” Dentists use this term for a minor burn of the gums and the roof of the mouth (palate). The most frequent cause is biting into hot food such as pizza. The telltale...
You may wonder what a tooth cleaning has to do with a stroke—that sudden, devastating paralysis in which blood supply to the brain is blocked. Simply put, it’s the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries. Yes, their is a direct correlation between the plaque in arteries and...
Some are caused by a virus, some hurt, and all are unpleasant socially. What exactly is that nasty thing on my mouth? And how do I get rid of it before Friday night? Cold Sores Cold sores and fever blisters are one and the same—small skin blisters on the mouth...
Are you one of the millions of Americans who spends most of their working and free time indoors? If so, you may be missing out on the important benefits of sunshine, which not only lifts the spirit, but also helps the body create an essential nutrient—vitamin D. Early in this...
Here’s an idea that may be new to you. Did you ever think of brushing your tongue? Actually, tongue-brushing is an ancient practice. Our ancestors considered it part of their daily hygiene. Yet many people today aren’t aware that their tongue needs brushing as much as their teeth do. In...
What to Know About Gum Disease It afflicts as many as nine in 10 adults at some point in their lives, as well as teenagers and children as young as five or six years of age. Yet, many suffer from it without even suspecting anything is wrong. “It” is periodontal,...
Visitors to our practice have probably noticed the efforts we put into making the office open and comfortable. Well, it’s not just cosmetic. We’re doing something about protecting your health. We consulted with experts in the field of asepsis—sterilization. Our aim was to find the best that technology has to...
Did you know the toothbrush was invented by the Chinese in the 15th century? These first toothbrushes were made of hog bristles. Today, most toothbrushes are made from nylon monofilaments which dry quickly and resist breakage. Did you know a worn-out toothbrush is dangerous? Bent bristles can injure soft tissues....
Good sleepers have a routine that doesn’t change, even on weekends: lights out at the same time, alarm buzzing at the same time. They don’t use caffeine late in the day or rely on alcohol or sleeping pills at bedtime. They exercise daily and start relaxing two hours before bedtime....
If you eat a lot of citrus fruits, drink carbonated soft drinks, suffer the eating disorder of bulimia, or experience the decline of saliva that often accompanies advancing age, you may be at risk of tooth erosion. What can cause your teeth to erode so badly you wind up having...
Every tooth fracture’s an emergency. Unfortunately, some are too tiny to be spotted by even a trained eye. We call it Cracked Tooth Syndrome. A patient shows up with a “mouthful of pain.” Something’s wrong somewhere, but which tooth? It could even be a hairline crack in an apparently healthy,...
When you have a cold, we all know to cover your mouth before you sneeze and not to drink out of the same glass. We do this because we know that a cold is contagious. Now we know that, chances are, so is tooth decay. Recent research suggests that the...
A bright smile is your most appealing and expressive feature. It projects a positive attitude and high self-esteem—which translates into success in school, business, and your personal life. The face is the most critical and integral aspect of your body image. Not surprisingly, the teeth are important in composing that...
“My tooth hurts. It must have a cavity.” Well, maybe it does. However, other conditions can cause a tooth to be sensitive to hot or cold foods, to the pressure of chewing… or to just plain ache. A few of these other toothache possibilities are: Shrinkage of the gum down...