Tooth Whitening

Periodontal disease is an oral condition which involves the breakdown of the structures which support the teeth such as the bone surrounding each tooth and the fibers which anchor the teeth to the gums. Currently, it is felt that the start and progression of periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis) is determined by the body’s response to infection caused by bacteria in plaque. (more…)

This fact sheet is designed to answer questions relating to diabetes mellitus and the effects it has in the mouth. Diabetes Mellitus is a condition whereby the sugar (glucose) from food is not used by the body. The reason the body is not able to use the sugar could be due to one of the following:
Type I Diabetes. The body does not produce enough insulin (a hormone that is needed to absorb glucose). (more…)

Body piercing is becoming quite popular. Piercing parts of the mouth (oral) as body decoration. Oral piercing are seen in people of all ages and of all ages and of all professions but are more common in young adults.

Common Oral Piercing Sites (more…)

Many pregnant women show some signs of gingivitis during pregnancy. Gingivitis is defined as the inflammation or swelling of the gum tissues. Most cases of gingivitis are the result of poor oral hygiene.

If plaque, the bacterial film that builds up on your teeth, is not removed daily by brushing and flossing, the plaque can irritate the gums, making them bright red, tender, swollen, sensitive and bleed readily. (more…)

Orthodontics is the science of straightening and correcting teeth.

Who Needs Orthodontic Treatment?

Children as well as adults, are choosing to have orthodontic treatment for several reasons:
-malocclusion (bite or occlusion is off)
-tooth malalignment (crooked teeth)

-unhappy with appearance of teeth

During the preteen and teenage years, the jaws are growing and maturing, therefore it is easier to shift teeth at this stage rather than later on in adulthood.
More adults are choosing to have orthodontic treatment in order to improve the appearance of their teeth. Since their jaws are no longer growing, treatment may take a little longer.
Some Causes of Malocclusion? (more…)

Do you have or do you know someone who has sensitive teeth? If your answer is yes, you will have a true appreciation for the content of this web page.
What is tooth sensitivity?

It can be defined as a painful reaction in one or more teeth triggered by hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods and drinks. This pain can be sharp, sudden and shoot deep into the nerve endings of your teeth.

Apart from a cavity or a missing filling, the most common cause of tooth sensitivity is exposed dentin on the roots of your teeth. Normally, the dentin (the second, more sensitive layer of the tooth) is surrounded and protected by your enamel, cementum(special root covering) and gums. The cause or mechanism of dentinal sensitivity is still not well understood. It is believed that the little tubes that connect the dentin to the nerve or pulp serve as sensory conductors. That sensation may be one of pain. OUCH!!!
Causes of exposed root surfaces which may result in dentinal sensitivity: (more…)

Have you ever been told that you grind your teeth? Tooth grinding [bruxism] is an oral habit which involves clenching and grinding of the teeth. It is not uncommon in our society. Approximately 50% to 96% of adults experience bruxism. 15% of children acquire this behavior. Most often, this habit goes by unnoticed by the person. Bruxism can occur during the day or night.

What causes bruxism?

This condition has no specific cause, but is believed to be a combination of many factors, such as:

emotional stress
personalities characterized as aggressive, controlling, precise,or who have time urgency and achievement compulsion tend to develop bruxism
malocclusion [teeth that are not aligned properly]
children whose parents brux are more likely to develop this habit than children whose parents do not brux (more…)

What is a Dental X-Ray?

The term x-ray is actually referring to the radiation that is used to make the image on the film. The radiograph or picture on the film is the resultant picture that we see. A radiograph is an extremely important diagnostic tool. These pictures show the dental professional many things that are not visible by just looking in the mouth. Therefore, radiographs are an essential part of a thorough and complete examination. In order to do a proper checkup, it is important that radiographs are used to help with the visual exam. Without the proper use of both, an inferior examination and inferior treatment will result.

Why Do I Need Dental X-Rays? (more…)

Just because you may have dentures does not mean that you can ignore your oral health and hygiene. It is still important to seek dental services regularly for evaluating the soft tissues and to examine the denture for proper fit, comfort, and function.
Why should I clean my denture daily?

Daily cleaning of your denture is necessary to prevent build-up of plaque, food, calculus (tartar), and stain which can cause:
problems with appearance or esthetics
mouth odor
irritation to the tissues under the denture
infections in the mouth (more…)

The dental term “xerostomia” means dryness of the mouth due to a decreased function of the glands that produce saliva.

Some Causes of Dry Mouth

A permanent feeling of dry mouth or decreased saliva flow can be caused by:

biological aging - this is a contributing factor, but probably does not cause it
systemic diseases such as; (more…)