When patients are told they need a dental implant, they are often surprised it’s a multi-step procedure. Unlike dentures or bridges which are removable, an implant is permanently placed into the jaw bone — and that bone needs to be strong enough to support it. If the jawbone is weakened for any reason, a procedure...
There are significant differences between a filling and a crown, but they serve the same purpose: to restore a damaged or decayed tooth. When a dentist recommends one instead of the other, it’s important to understand why. The decision depends on the severity of the cavity and condition of the tooth, and which treatment option...
In general terms, a veneer is a way to cover up imperfections to achieve a more pleasing appearance. When it comes to veneers for your teeth, there are two types to choose from, and each type has its own pros and cons. Before making the big decision of getting dental veneers, it’s best to learn...
Dental fillings are a routine and effective way to treat cavities and restore tooth structure, but you may not realize fillings can wear out or fail. Fillings can last 20+ years, helping protect your teeth from further decay. But they don’t last forever. Many people assume a filling is permanent, or they only think to...
There is no reason to give up being active while undergoing Invisalign treatment. In fact, playing sports with Invisalign provides even more freedom than braces, because there’s not as much concern about metal wires or brackets cutting the mouth upon impact. However, we have some advice to ensure you or your child gets the most...
Do you dream of a brighter smile but worry about the pain? You’re not alone. Research shows that one in eight adults have sensitive teeth. Although tooth whitening is one of the most popular dental procedures, many people avoid it because they are worried about sensitivity or have had uncomfortable experiences in the past. The...
Most people know of calcium as a mineral that helps to build strong teeth and bones. So, it can be confusing when a dentist says they need to remove the calcium deposits or calcium buildup from teeth. If calcium is good for teeth, why remove it? Calcium Deposits, Calcium Buildup, and Dental Calculus: What Are...
“I’d rather have a root canal!” We’ve all heard the jokes. When something unpleasant or painful comes up, you might hear it compared to this much-dreaded dental procedure. Over the years, root canals have gotten a bad reputation for being painful. But the truth is, today’s root canals are mucheasier than most people think. Root...
Let’s face it: flossing isn’t exactly anyone’s idea of fun. If you’ve ever skipped a night (or a few) because you were tired or just didn’t feel like it, you are not alone. Plenty of people struggle to floss regularly. For some, it is easy to forget. For others, flossing teeth hurts, especially if their...
Dentists have recommended fluoride for reducing oral decay for more than seven decades. But in recent years, there has been controversy over the safety and necessity of fluoride. Some say it can actually cause health problems, and that those risks outweigh the dental benefits. We will go over what fluoride does for teeth and why...