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 deserve to know why. Radiography begins Wilhelm Roentgen, fiddling around […]
Frank Talk About Bad Breath
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 offensive—we “turn off” our sensitivity to bad odors over […]
Fluoride, the Story
Sifting Fact From Belief Dental researchers call it The Fluoride Story—the most dramatic turn-around of a population’s 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 products labs, in national science […]
Resolutions for a Happy and Healthy New Year!
Here’s to Health in 2018! We care about you as patients and as friends too! As we all try to get healthier in the New Year, here are some common resolutions that can improve dental and overall health. Make the New Year tobacco-free! Do whatever you need to quit smoking—seek out a program, a patch, […]
The Perils of a Bad Bite
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 connect, like headaches, unsightly teeth and TMJ disorder. Let’s […]
Hormones and 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 medication? Tell us if these ring a bell: Provera, Amen, […]
Don’t Hide That Smile
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 in dental materials and technology, these “instant orthodontics” are easy, painless, […]
Expiring Dental Insurance Benefits?
Use Them or Lose Them! What if someone gave you free money to spend on improving your smile? With one string attached: use it all by New Years’, or lose it. Well, for those fortunate enough to have insurance, be sure to take advantage of your plan’s benefits before they expire at the end of […]
Your Health History
Keep Us Informed of Any Changes! 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 […]
Antibiotics before Dental Procedures?
Know the Guidelines If in the past your doctor has prescribed antibiotics before you had dental work, don’t assume that your future holds more such meds. The guidelines may have changed since your last appointment… so check with your family doctor or cardiologist to learn if premedication is necessary for you. For years the American […]
