Search Results

Your search for matches the following pages

• Dairy Does the Mouth Good
  Consuming dairy products is vital to maintaining good overall health, and it’s especially important to bone health. But there has been little research about how dairy products affect oral health in particular. However, according to a new study publ
• Dairy Does the Mouth Good
  Consuming dairy products is vital to maintaining good overall health, and it’s especially important to bone health. But there has been little research about how dairy products affect oral health in particular. However, according to a new study publ
• Halloween Can Be Scary, Especially for Kids’ Teeth
  Your kids may be ready to indulge in sweet treats this Halloween, but don’t let the holiday turn into an oral health nightmare. To keep your children’s smiles safe from creepy cavities this season and all year-round, consider these tips from the Ac
• Halloween Can Be Scary, Especially for Kids’ Teeth
  Your kids may be ready to indulge in sweet treats this Halloween, but don’t let the holiday turn into an oral health nightmare. To keep your children’s smiles safe from creepy cavities this season and all year-round, consider these tips from the Ac
• Best and Worst Halloween Candy Options for Children’s Teeth
  Halloween is just around the corner, and although candy consumption is almost unavoidable this time of year, the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) wants parents and children to know that there are both good and bad candy options, both of which m
• 5 Habits That Destroy Your Smile
  Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson Steven A. Ghareeb, DDS, FAGD, offers advice on how to keep your smile healthy and pretty by avoiding these five bad oral health habits. 1. Not flossing Brushing your teeth
• The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) Sets the Record Straight on Dental X-Rays
  On Tuesday, April 10, 2012, in the journal Cancer , the American Cancer Society published an article entitled “Dental X-Rays and Risk of Meningioma,” which summarized a study that sought to develop a correlation between dental radiographs and brai
• What Is a General Dentist?
  General dentists are the primary dental care providers for patients of all ages. They can treat you and your entire family and care for your overall oral health. This is crucial to your total health. Your general dentist takes responsibility for th
• Mouthing Off Against Oral Cancer
  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 30,000 new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year, and more than 8,000 deaths occur annually. The five-year survival rate for oral cancers is roughly 50 percent. T
• Sports and Energy Drinks Responsible for Irreversible Damage to Teeth
  A recent study published in the May/June 2012 issue of General Dentistry , the peer-reviewed clinical journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, found that an alarming increase in the consumption of sports and energy drinks, especially among ado
• Sports and Energy Drinks Responsible for Irreversible Damage to Teeth
  A recent study published in the May/June 2012 issue of General Dentistry , the peer-reviewed clinical journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, found that an alarming increase in the consumption of sports and energy drinks, especi
• Sports and Energy Drinks Responsible for Irreversible Damage to Teeth
  A recent study published in the May/June 2012 issue of General Dentistry , the peer-reviewed clinical journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, found that an alarming increase in the consumption of sports and energy drinks, especially among ado
• Sports and Energy Drinks Responsible for Irreversible Damage to Teeth
  A recent study published in the May/June 2012 issue of General Dentistry , the peer-reviewed clinical journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, found that an alarming increase in the consumption of sports and energy drinks, especially among ado
• Sports and Energy Drinks Responsible for Irreversible Damage to Teeth
  A recent study published in the May/June 2012 issue of General Dentistry, the peer-reviewed clinical journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, found that an alarming increase in the consumption of sports and energy drinks, especially among adole
• Sports and Energy Drinks Responsible for Irreversible Damage to Teeth
  A recent study published in the May/June 2012 issue of General Dentistry, the peer-reviewed clinical journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, found that an alarming increase in the consumption of sports and energy drinks, especially among adole
• Sports and Energy Drinks Responsible for Irreversible Damage to Teeth
  A recent study published in the May/June 2012 issue of General Dentistry, the peer-reviewed clinical journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, found that an alarming increase in the consumption of sports and energy drinks, especially among adole
• Give Yourself the Gift of Good Oral Health this Holiday Season
  'Tis the season for giving, but remember to give yourself the most important gift of all this holiday season: a healthy smile! Maintaining good oral hygiene during the holiday season is more important than ever, advises the Academy of General Dentis
• The Best (and Worst) Candy for Your Teeth
  As each October creeps up on Cindy Flanagan, DDS, MAGD, spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), her mind always wanders to the amount of sweets both children and adults will be consuming during the last few months of the year.
• The Best (and Worst) Candy for Your Teeth
  As each October creeps up on Cindy Flanagan, DDS, MAGD, spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), her mind always wanders to the amount of sweets both children and adults will be consuming during the last few months of the year.
• The Best (and Worst) Candy for Your Teeth
  As each October creeps up on Cindy Flanagan, DDS, MAGD, spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), her mind always wanders to the amount of sweets both children and adults will be consuming during the last few months of the year.
• Is Kissing Dangerous to Your Health?
  Is kissing harmful to your health? With just one kiss couples can share more than 500 different types of disease-causing germs and viruses, warns the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), a professional association of more than 35,000 general dentist
• Is Your Child’s Hobby Making Him Sick?
  Research has shown that playing a musical instrument can help nourish, cultivate, and increase intelligence in children, but playing a used instrument also can pose a potentially dangerous health risk.
• Is Your Child’s Hobby Making Him Sick?
  Research has shown that playing a musical instrument can help nourish, cultivate, and increase intelligence in children, but playing a used instrument also can pose a potentially dangerous health risk. Used woodwind and
• Oral Warning Signs Can Indicate Serious Medical Conditions
  Regular dental exams not only help to decrease a patient’s risk of oral diseases, such as cavities and periodontal (gum) disease, but they may also help to diagnose other, sometimes life-threatening, medical conditions.
• The Mystery of Burning Mouth Syndrome
  Most people can relate to the uncomfortable feeling that occurs after scalding their mouth on hot soup or coffee. It’s a relief when that burnt feeling subsides after several days. But imagine experiencing that burning sensation all day, every day.
• The Tooth About Zinc
  From its involvement in a healthy immune system to its role in cell growth, zinc is an essential mineral for the human body. Zinc deficiency is a worldwide problem that affects approximately 4 million people in the U.S. alone.
• The Tooth About Zinc
  From its involvement in a healthy immune system to its role in cell growth, zinc is an essential mineral for the human body. Zinc deficiency is a worldwide problem that affects approximately 4 million people in the U.S. alone.
• Baby’s First Steps to a Healthy Mouth
  Parents are a child’s first teachers in life and they play a significant role in maintaining their child’s overall health. In observance of National Children's Dental Health Month, the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) encourages parents to intr
• Is Kissing Dangerous to Your Health?
  Is kissing harmful to your health? With just one kiss couples can share more than 500 different types of disease-causing germs and viruses, warns the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), a professional association of more than 35,000 general d
• Is Kissing Dangerous to Your Health?
  Is kissing harmful to your health? With just one kiss couples can share more than 500 different types of disease-causing germs and viruses, warns the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), a professional association of more than 35,000 general dentist
• Improve Your Oral Health in 2011
  Many people ring in a new year by making health-related resolutions to improve their lives, but how many of those lifestyle changes are kept past January? The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) , a professional association of more than 35,000 gene
• Expecting? Don’t Neglect Your Teeth
  Even though most people are aware that good oral health is essential for the overall health of both mother and child, misunderstandings about the safety of dental care during pregnancy may cause pregnant women to avoid seeing their dentist. The fac
• People with Diabetes at Higher Risk for Developing Gum Disease
  According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diabetes affects nearly 24 million people in the United States. The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) encourages those with diabetes to pay extra attention to their oral health. S
• People with Diabetes at Higher Risk for Developing Gum Disease
  According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diabetes affects nearly 24 million people in the United States. The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) encourages those with diabetes to pay extra attention to their oral health. S
• Dentists Help to Detect Children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
  Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) is an umbrella term that describes the range of effects that can occur in a person whose mother drank alcohol while pregnant. Each year, FASD affect an estimated 40,000 infants in the United States—more t
• Oral Cancer Linked to Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
  The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 20 million Americans currently are infected. There are more
• Fighting Tooth Decay with "Sugar"
  If there’s one thing that all dentists have in common, it’s that they regularly see young patients with tooth decay. Roughly 42 percent of children ages 2 to 11 have had decay in their primary teeth, while approximately 32 percent of ch
• Fighting Tooth Decay With "Sugar"
  Fighting Tooth Decay With "Sugar" Using Xylitol to Prevent and Control Cavities If there’s one thing that all dentists have in common, it’s that they regularly see young patients with tooth decay. Roughly 42 percent of chil
• Children with Special Needs Are at Increased Risk for Oral Disease
  At the beginning of 2010, as many as 17 percent of children in the United States were reported as having special health care needs. Behavioral issues, developmental disorders, cognitive disorders, genetic disorders and systemic diseases may increas
• Good Oral Health Is Essential During Pregnancy
  It’s no secret that pregnancy is an important time in a woman’s life. While women often hear about how pregnancy causes physical changes that affect their hormone or appetite levels, these changes can have a great effect on their oral health as wel
• Like Parent, Like Child: Good Oral Health Starts at Home
  Parents are a child’s first teacher in life and play a significant role in maintaining his or her overall health. Providing oral health education to mothers and families is essential to teaching children healthy habits and preventing early childhoo
• Drinking Tap Water May Help You Avoid Dentist’s Drill
  Tooth decay affects children in the United States more than any other chronic infectious disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC states that tooth decay, if left untreated, can cause pain and infections t
• Give Dirty Mouths a Brush
  The human mouth is home to an estimated 800 to 1,000 different kinds of bacteria. The warm and moist environment, along with hard tooth surfaces and soft tissues, prove to be optimal factors in boosting germ growth. Many of these bacteria are harmf
• Mouth Breathing Can Cause Major Health Problems
  For some, the phrase “spring is in the air” is quite literal. When the winter snow melts and flowers bloom, pollen and other materials can wreak havoc on those suffering from seasonal allergies, usually causing a habit called “mouth breathing.” The
• FAGD and MAGD: What Do These Awards Mean?
  These awards mean that your general dentist cares about long-term dental health for you and your family and demonstrates that concern by pursuing additional designations. The Fellowship (FAGD) and Mastership (MAGD) Awards are two of the most rigoro
• How Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) Members Advocate for Patients
  You may not be aware of this, but the AGD member dentist you see for semiannual check-ups may have a secret. A secret identity, that is—as a government lobbyist. Aside from root canals, fillings and oral health screenings, your dentist may lend his
• What Is Continuing Education, and What Does It Mean to Me?
  What is continuing education? Continuing education consists of courses that dentists take after they graduate from dental school in order to remain up to date in the field and to learn about the latest techniques and procedures.
• What Is the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)?
  The AGD is a nonprofit international organization with 37,000 member dentists from the United States and Canada. It was founded in 1952. The AGD strives to provide the best possible patient care through its dedication to the continuing dental educ
• Economy and Pumping Iron Lead to Cracked Teeth
  CHICAGO (July 17, 2009) - Many men’s mouths fall silent when questioned about frequency of regular dental visits. Just being male puts one at risk for infrequent dental checkups and poor oral health, which can decrease a man’s longevity, accord
• A Dentist’s Role in Sleep Apnea
  A good night’s sleep has the power to restore the body and enliven the mind. For the 18 million Americans who experience symptoms of sleep apnea, a good night’s sleep also has the power to save their lives. Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious, lif
• Common Condition Creates Diverse List of Treatment Options
  Cracked teeth, lost teeth, and decaying teeth are among the complaints a patient may present to his or her dentist for treatment. Each of those oral health troubles comes with a list of options the dentist may use for treatment; for example, implan
• How Acid Reflux Disease Damages Teeth
  First reported more than 200 years ago, dental erosion still continues to be a major concern for dentists and consumers. Twenty decades ago, studies reported dental erosion occurred because of industrial hazards, specifically when workers were expo
• Important Oral Health Considerations for Women at All Life Stages
  Women can attribute bloating, irritability, moodiness, and the occasional hot flash or emotional outburst to hormones. But, according to an article in the May 2009 issue of AGD Impact , the Academy of General Dentistry’s (AGD) monthly newsmagazi
• X-Rays Help Predict Permanent Bone Damage from Bisphosphonates
  Breast cancer patients, individuals at risk for osteoporosis and those undergoing certain types of bone cancer therapies often take drugs containing bisphosphonates. These drugs have been found to place people at risk for developing osteonecrosis o
• Go the Extra Mile for a Healthy Smile
  For some, good oral hygiene may mean just brushing, flossing and using a germ-fighting mouthwash, but for others, that’s only the beginning of a cavity-fighting regime. In fact, many people are taking heed to an oral health care procedure more commo
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Lesions Identified at the Dentist
  Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of viruses that includes more than 100 different strains or types and is the most common sexually transmitted virus. The American Social Health Association (ASHA) reports that 75 percent or more of sexually acti
• Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy
  If you’re planning to become pregnant or suspect you’re already pregnant, it’s important that you see a dentist right away. Pregnancy may cause unexpected oral health changes due to hormones—particularly an increase in estrogen and progesterone—wh
• Alleviate Stress to Lessen TMD Pain
  During stressful periods, when TMD symptoms appear, he advises avoiding chewing gum and selecting softer foods to decrease the use of the jaw muscles. Just put your tongue between your teeth or at the top of your mouth to keep your teeth apart.
• How TMD Pain is Caused
  The pain associated with TMD is caused when the temporomandibular joint (the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull) is damaged or has deteriorated or when the muscles surrounding the joint are malfunctioning, causing an imbalance in the move
• Stress and TMD
  "Stress is the predominant factor in TMD symptoms," says E. Mac Edington, DDS, MAGD, ABGD, past president of the AGD. "Unless your jaw or face hits the windshield, the steering wheel or another object, there is no physical correlation between TMD and wh
• TMD Checklist
  TMD checklist: An earache without an infection Jaw pain or soreness that is more prevalent in the morning or late afternoon Jaw pain when you chew, bite or yawn Clicking associated with pain when opening and c
• What Equilibration Treatment Involves
  In general, equilibration techniques for the relief of TMD pain and spasms are effective and predictable, and patients like the concept because treatments are painless. In some cases, equilibration techniques may include the fabricati
• Avoid Clenching Your Teeth
  Dr. Edington warns that prolonged grinding or clenching may cause soreness of the jaw. Other signs you should watch out for are the partial or full locking of the jaw, clicking in the jaw area, earaches that are not caused by infections and pain surrou
• Diagnosing Orofacial Pain
  Sometimes orofacial pain may be difficult to diagnose if its origin is not localized in one area. "Your dentist will try to diagnose the pain source by conducting tests to rule out a cracked tooth, the need for root canal, gum disease,
• Headaches
  Approximately one in eight Americans suffer from headaches. Experts estimate that 75 percent of all headaches are caused by muscle tension, which may be related to the bite. Headaches also can be caused by clenching jaw muscles for long periods of time
• How Your Dentist Can Help
  Your dentist will take a medical and dental history to determine if any trauma has occurred in the facial area, perform a physical examination to examine your temporomandibular joint and head and neck. Maintaining or correcting your bite ensur
• Sleep Disorders
  If you have gone through treatment and still experience orofacial pain, you may have a sleep disorder, such as bruxism, or a sleep-related breathing disorder, such as snoring or sleep apnea. Bruxism is the technical term for grinding and clenching. Sno
• Symptoms of Lyme Disease
  Other symptoms associated with Lyme disease are headache, flu-like illness with achy joints, muscle pain, stiff neck and significant fatigue. Many patients also have a characteristic bull's-eye shaped rash with a clear center seen at the site of the bi
• Symptoms of Orofacial Pain
  Pain behind the eyes Sore jaw muscles Teeth grinding Clicking or popping of joints Head/scalp painful to the touch Earaches or ringing Neck, shoulder or back pain Dizziness Updated: Novembe
• Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)
  The National Institutes of Health estimates that 5 to 10 percent of Americans have TMD, or problems affecting the jaw joint and/or muscles. Your temporomandibular joints are located where the skull connects to your lower jaw. To feel these joints, plac
• TMJ Symptoms
  Clicking and/or difficulty when opening and closing mouth Frequent headaches Neck and/or shoulder pain Sensitive teeth when no dental problems can be found Jaw pain or stiff jaw when chewing, biting, eating or
• Treatments to Alleviate Pain
  Your dentist has a variety of treatments that can help alleviate your orofacial pain. One device is called an orthotic, or splint, that is worn over the teeth until the bite can be stabilized. Permanent correction may require reshaping teeth, building
• How to Treat TMD
  The majority of cases can be treated by unloading (resting) the joint, taking a non-aspirin pain reliever and practicing stress management and relaxation techniques. Most treatment for TMD is simple, often can be done at home, and does not need surgery
• Is TMD Permanent?
  The condition is often cyclical and may recur during times of stress, good or bad. As the patient, you should be active in your treatment by being aware of the causes of your jaw problems after seeing a dentist for a diagnosis regime. Make routine dent
• Oral STD Survey Results
  According to the study's author, Larry N. Williams, DDS, MAGD, 60 percent of surveyed college students do not equate oral-genital contact with sex. And more than 55 percent of teenagers admitted to engaging in oral sexual acts.
• Symptoms of TMD
  Jaw pain or soreness that is more prevalent in the morning or late afternoon Jaw pain when you chew, bite or yawn Clicking when opening and closing your mouth Difficulty opening and closing your mouth Locked or stiff jaw
• Treating an Oral STD
  An oral STD is harder to treat. "Most STDs require a moist environment to survive," Dr. Williams explained. Treatment for an oral component to an STD usually includes an oral antibiotic. To reduce the chances of contra
• What Causes TMD?
  Trauma to the jaw or jaw joint sometimes plays a role in TMD, but in most cases the cause of the disorder is unknown. Most experts suggest that certain tasks, either mental or physical, may cause or aggravate TMD, such as stressful situations. Most dis
• What is the Temporomandibular Joint?
  The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a joint that slides and rotates just in front of your ear, consisting of the temporal bone (side of the skull) and the mandible (lower jaw). Chewing muscles connect the lower jaw to the skull, allowing you to move y
• How Can I Prevent Tooth Loss?
  Educating yourself about the causes and consequences of tooth loss can prevent it from happening to you. Visiting the dentist for cleanings twice a year is an important step toward prevention. Improving oral hygiene habits at home by brushing and
• How Your General Dentist Can Help
  Decisions about replacing teeth can seem overwhelming at first, both from a psychological and financial standpoint. Communicating your feelings and expectations to your general dentist is a necessary step to moving forward. It may be helpful to
• Options for Tooth Replacement
  If tooth loss is unavoidable, there are various options for replacement that can effectively restore your smile. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that can be surgically anchored to the jaw to hold a replacement tooth o
• Psychological & Emotional Effects Of Tooth Loss
  In an AGD member survey, more than 86 percent of general dentists reported social embarrassment as one of the greatest problems associated with tooth loss. Losing teeth not only affects a person’s ability to chew and properly digest food, but it al
• Tooth Loss and Social Problems
  Tooth loss has physical, social and psychological consequences including physical pain, shifting of teeth, social embarrassment, anxiety, self-consciousness, speech problems and emotional pain and distress. The good news, though, is that these probl
• What Causes Tooth Loss?
  Poor oral hygiene habits: If you do not brush and floss daily, decay and gum disease can set in, making tooth loss more likely to happen. Poor nutrition: Foods and beverages that are high in sugar, carbohydrates and acid
• The Truth About Tooth Loss
  In the United States , 20 million teeth are extracted each year. The consequences of tooth loss can have devastating effects on overall health and self-esteem, yet fewer than 10 percent of patients seek information prior to the los
• What Is Tooth Loss?
  Tooth loss, or edentulism, is when one or more teeth fall out or are extracted due to injury or disease such as mouth trauma, tooth decay or gum disease. Kids, adults and seniors are all at risk for tooth loss, especially if proper oral hy
• Are You At Risk?
  Dr. Rhodus hopes his findings help increase patient awareness about getting CHF under control so patients can receive dental treatment. General dentists develop dental plans on a regular basis for a wide variety o
• Gum Disease Affect on Cardiovascular Health
  The current theory is that bacteria present in infected gums can come loose and move throughout the body. The same bacteria that cause gum disease and irritate your gums might travel to your arteries. Researchers are unsure what causes the bacteria t
• How Asthma Affects Oral Health
  Asthmatic adults and children have a tendency to be mouth breathers, which when combined with asthma medications, such as corticosteriods, causes a decreased saliva flow, known as dry mouth. Without saliva's cleansing effects, asthma patients have a
• How Gum Disease and Diabetes Relate
  Because diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection, the gums are at risk for gingivitis, an inflammation usually caused by the presence of bacteria in plaque. Plaque is the sticky film that accumulates on teeth both above and below the gum l
• How to Keep Your Gums Healthy
  Keep your mouth healthy! Gum disease is a serious gum infection that should always be taken seriously. Although gum disease can often show few or no symptoms at all, watch for gums that are red and irritated or bleed easily. There are many new treatm
• How to Stay Healthy
  Make sure to take extra good care of your mouth and have dental infections treated immediately. Diabetics who receive good dental care and have good insulin control typically have a better chance at avoiding gum disease.
• How Your Dentist Can Check For Stress
  After a thorough examination and diagnosis of oral problems and screening for a linked stress-related disorder, dentists can help patients by referring them to a medical specialist. "The 'team treatment' between
• How Your Dentist Can Help
  "Share an up-to-date medication list and other heart conditions with your dentist before every appointment," encourages Dr. Rhodus. "Share your cardiologist's information so your dentist can consult with him or her prior to your appointment."
• Maintain Your Oral and Overall Health
  Seeing a dentist every six months can help identify diseases in their earliest stages. It also is important to provide your dentist with a complete medical history and to inform him or her of any recent problems, even if they seem unrelated to your m
• Oral Health and Heart Disease Facts
  Research shows over 90 percent of all systemic diseases – including heart disease – have oral symptoms. A sore or painful jaw could indicate an impending heart attack or heart disease, making biannual visits to the dentist an important investment in
• Prevent Oral Health Issues When Stressed
  "Marital or family problems, the death of a relative, serious personal illness, serious illness of a close relative, a major financial difficulty or a burglary all influence the severity of gum disease," says AGD spokesperson J. Michael Adame, DDS. "
• Risk Factors for Osteoporosis
  Risk factors for the disease are: heredity, calcium deficiency, smoking, menopause, excessive caffeine or alcohol and an inactive lifestyle. As the disease progresses, the vertebral bones can become weakened, res
• Signs of Gum Disease
  Gum disease, often called gingivitis in its early stages, is caused by plaque buildup and affects an estimated 80 percent of American adults. Studies suggest that people who have gum disease are at a higher risk for heart attack. If bacteria in the i
• What Problems Can Poor Oral Health Cause?
  According to the Surgeon General's report on oral health in America, released in 2000, a large percentage of the population suffers from a reduced quality of life due to oral and facial pain. This pain is largely
• When to Visit the Dentist
  If your blood sugar is not under control, talk with both your dentist and physician about receiving elective dental care. Dental procedures should be as short and as stress free as possible. Also make morning appointments because blood glucose levels
• Are There Any Disadvantages?
  Disadvantages of amalgam include possible short-term sensitivity to cold after the filling is placed, which is also true of other dental materials. The silver-colored filling is not as natural looking as one that is tooth-colored and might be visible
• Disabilities and Dental Decay
  "Increased dental decay is commonplace because many medications have a high sucrose content," said Dr. Margolis. Some children with disabilities are also restricted to soft diets and do not have the abrasive particles to help remove food and plaque.
• Drinking Tips to Protect Enamel
  Reduce your soda consumption. Don't leave fluids in your mouth when sipping. Don't drink soda before going to bed. Don't brush immediately after
• Effects of Smoking on the Mouth
  Smoking reduces blood flow and the supply of vital nutrients to your gums, including vitamin C. Without the proper nutrients, you can develop gum disease, bone loss, and even tooth loss. This is because smoking triggers the accumulation of bacteria i
• How Cavities Form
  "I use xylitol and have recommended products that contain xylitol, such as mouthrinses, for patients with dry mouth," says AGD spokesperson John Chandler, DDS, MAGD. "While dentists need to monitor the continuing research on xylitol, I do see a place
• How Smoking Affects Men
  In one study, 495 healthy men had their teeth examined every three years. The men were divided into three groups: those who never used tobacco products, those who continuously smoked and those who smoked at the beginning of the study but later quit.
• How Smoking Affects Women
  Another study at Tufts University, which looked at 583 healthy postmenopausal women, and found that female smokers were twice as likely to lose one or more teeth every 10 years than non-smokers, and that the risk of losing teeth decreases among women
• How Sweets Are Linked to Decay
  Certain foods such as sweets and soda are easily linked to tooth decay, however all foods can promote tooth decay if eaten in excess. The key is to teach kids to eat in moderation and make sure that they take proper care of their teeth. “While h
• Is Amalgam a Good Choice?
  Because amalgam fillings can withstand a lot of chewing, they are useful especially for restoring molars in the back of the mouth, where the chewing load is greatest. They also are good in areas that are hard to keep dry, such as in deep fillings belo
• Is Dental Amalgam Safe?
  Although dental amalgam continues to be a safe, commonly used restorative material, there have been some concerns because it contains mercury. However, because the mercury in amalgam is combined with other metals, it is safe for use in filling teeth.
• Is Spit Tobacco Safer than Smoking?
  Absolutely not. Some wrongly believe that spit tobacco is safer than smoking cigarettes. But spit tobacco is more addictive because it contains higher levels of nicotine than cigarettes and can be harder to quit than cigarettes. One can of snuff deliv
• Is Tooth Decay in Your Genes?
  Children whose parents are prone to cavities and tooth decay need to be extra careful. "We know there's a genetic predisposition to tooth decay," says Dr. Soxman. Children at high risk for cavities should be discouraged from eating starchy snacks such
• Kick the Habit
  Your dentist can help you kick your spit tobacco habit. In addition to cleaning teeth and treating bad breath and puffy, swollen gums associated with tobacco use, your dentist may prescribe a variety of nicotine replacement therapies, such as a trans
• Make a Goal to Quit Smoking
  Pick a date and taper use as the date nears. Instead of using spit tobacco, carry substitutes like gum, hard candy and sunflower seeds. Cut back on when and where you dip and chew. Let friends and family k
• Oral Cancer Exam
  "Patients under age 30 need to speak to their dentist if they are not receiving oral-cancer exams, or if they believe they are candidates for oral cancer," says AGD spokesperson Howard S. Glazer, DDS, FAGD. "The
• Oral Cancer Screening and Treatment
  Your dentist should screen for oral cancer during routine checkups. He or she feels for lumps or irregular tissue changes in your neck, head, cheeks and oral cavity and thoroughly examines the soft tissues in your mouth, specifically looking for any
• Other Liquids that Harm Teeth
  "Other beverages, such as orange juice and soda, also may cause tooth erosion when consumed in high quantities," says AGD spokesperson Charles Perle, DMD, FAGD. "Bulimia is another cause of tooth erosion because of constant regurgitation of stomach a
• Prevent Oral Cancer
  You can help prevent oral cancer by not smoking, using spit tobacco or drinking excessive alcohol. The risk of oral cancer is 15 times higher in those who both smoke and drink compared to non-users of tobacco and alcohol products. Research suggests t
• Reasons Why Women Smoke
  Many female smokers will find it more difficult to quit their habit due to addiction and fear of weight gain. This puts them at a higher risk of developing long-term health problems. These health risks, however, start declining immediately after the
• Replace One Soda with One Water
  However, even when drinking through a straw, the teeth located in the back of the mouth are still bathed with sugary and acidic liquids. "Try rinsing your mouth with water after drinking, and use toothpaste that contains fluoride," advises AGD spokesp
• Signs of Oral Cancer
  A sore that persists longer than two weeks A swelling, growth or sore spot in or around the mouth or neck White or red patches in the mouth or on the lips Repeated bleeding from the mou
• Signs of Oral Cancer
  Oral cancer can develop at any time. It's important to know what to look for and to tell your dentist and physician right away if you have any concerns. If you experience any sign of irritation, like tenderness, burning, or a sore that will not heal,
• Soft Drink Consumption on the Rise
  About 27 percent of the beverages consumed by Americans are soft drinks, the study notes. Overall soft drink consumption has steadily increased over the years and remains on the rise, contributing to an increase in oral health problems, namely caviti
• Spit Tobacco and Your Health
  It causes bad breath, discolors teeth and promotes tooth decay that leads to tooth loss. Spit tobacco users have a decreased sense of smell and taste, and they are at greater risk of developing cavities. The grit in snuff eats away at gums, exposing
• Sugar and Acid Damage Teeth
  According to AGD spokesperson Cynthia Sherwood, DDS, soda's combination of sugar and acidity can be damaging to teeth. Though the level of risk varies from person to person, Dr. Sherwood says, "Repeated exposure of soda through sipping over a long per
• Sugary Liquids Can Cause Decay
  Frequent and long-term exposure of a child's teeth to sugary liquids is commonly called baby bottle tooth decay. Most parents are aware of baby bottle tooth decay but may not know that the long-term and regular consumption of sugary liquids in a bottl
• The Worst Time to Drink Soda
  Because saliva helps neutralize acids and wash your teeth clean, the worst time to drink soda pop, ironically, is when you are very thirsty due to low levels of saliva. "The larger the volume of intake, the more impact soda pop has on your teeth," sa
• Three Tips for a Sugar-free Mouth
  Keep a toothbrush and toothpaste handy; children can keep travel-size products in lockers or backpacks, and adults should keep a spare pair at work. Chew sugarless gum, with or without xylitol, after meals or snacks whe
• Tips to Reduce Childhood Decay
  Wean a child from the bottle or breast by age 1. Use spill-proof cups as a transitional step in the development of children, not a long-term solution. Don't allow children to use spill-proof cups throughout the
• Tooth Loss for Smokers
  If you start smoking at age 18 and smoke one pack a day, how many teeth will you lose by the time you are 35 years old? Answer: Between four and five teeth. The Academy of General Dentistry reports tooth loss due
• Treating Oral Cancer
  In its earliest and treatable stages, oral cancer can appear as a tiny white or red spots that you may not notice. Only your dentist can uncover these painless spots and test them to be certain they are not cancerous. Advanced signs of oral cancer in
• Types of Tobacco
  Smokeless tobacco—which includes snuff, dip, or chewing tobacco—eats away at your gums, exponentially increasing the chances for gum disease. You also are four to six times more likely to develop oral cancer from chewing tobacco. In fact, the area of
• Warning Signs of Oral Cancer
  Oral cancer – represented by red, white or discolored lesions, patches or lumps in or around the mouth – is typically painless in its early stages. As the malignant cancer spreads and destroys healthy oral tissue, the lesions or lumps become more p
• What Is Oral Cancer?
  Oral cancer is typically painless in its early stages and often goes unnoticed by the patient until it spreads, leading to chronic pain and sometimes loss of function before it is diagnosed. In its later stages, oral cancer can lead to surgery and fa
• About an Oral Cancer Screening
  "The dentist will check the head, neck and mouth for signs of oral cancer and will take swift action if oral cancer is found. Dentists must screen patients who have risk factors and those who do not, since 25 percent of oral cancer patients have no
• Aloe Vera Eases Pain
  "There is good evidence to support using aloe vera for oral health problems," says AGD spokesperson Kenton A. Ross, DMD, FAGD. "I believe a number of patients will be interested in this inexpensive alternative." Aloe vera accelerate
• Aloe Vera Juice & Gel
  The journal article, written by Richard L. Wynn, PhD, mentions a study done on a patient with lichen planus, a common disease affecting the skin and oral mucus membranes. The patient drank 2.0 ounces of aloe vera juice daily and applied aloe-vera l
• Change Child's Diet to Help Prevent Tooth Decay
  A series of small changes over a period of time is usually easier and eventually leads to better oral health. To incorporate these changes: Gradually dilute the bottle contents with wate
• Cold Sore Vs. Canker Sore
  Like cold sores, canker sores – also known as aphthous ulcers – can be quite painful and often recur. While cold sores are caused by a virus, the formation of a canker sore may be triggered by multiple factors such as stress, food allergies or a we
• Dental Assistant
  Dental assistants keep the dental practice running smoothly. A few of the assistant's tasks include greeting patients and preparing them for dental procedures, assisting the dentist during procedures and sometimes handling billing and insurance.
• Dental Hygienist
  Dental hygienists help prevent tooth decay and maintain healthy gums by cleaning teeth to remove tartar, stains and plaque. Hygienists perform screenings to review a patient's health history and chart the condition of the patient's teeth, apply pre
• Dental Specialities
  While the general dentist is the primary care provider for all patients, specialization is also an option. Currently the American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes nine dental specialties. General dentists, the primary denta
• Dental Technician
  Dental technicians work in labs, where they make and repair dental appliances, including dentures, inlays, bridges, crowns and braces. Following a dentist's prescription, technicians create appliances using wax, plasters, plastic, ceramics and meta
• Dentists' Advice to Stop Smoking
  Your dentist can recommend a step-by-step program tailored to your needs or prescribe a nicotine patch in combination with a cessation program. Talk to your dentist about the options suited to your dependency. Your dentist will work with you and yo
• Diligence Is Key
  Canker sores (or mouth ulcers) generally occur inside the mouth. They often are triggered by trauma such as biting your cheek, jabbing your gum with your toothbrush or even overzealous tooth cleaning. Cold sores are tiny, clear, fluid-filled bliste
• How a Dentist Screens for Cancer
  Your dentist should screen for oral cancer during routine checkups. He or she feels for lumps or irregular tissue changes in your neck, head, cheeks and oral cavity and thoroughly examines the soft tissues in your mouth, specifically looking for an
• How Are Cavities Prevented?
  The acids formed by plaque can be counteracted simply by saliva in your mouth, which acts as a buffer and remineralizing agent. Dentists often recommend chewing sugarless gum to stimulate your flow of saliva. However, though it is the body's natural
• How Are Cold Sores Treated?
  Most cold sores are mild and do not require treatment. Antiviral medications can reduce the frequency, duration and severity of outbreaks. Medications with a numbing agent, such as benzyl alcohol, can help alleviate a cold sore's burning, itching an
• How Oral Cancer Is Treated
  If your dentist suspects oral cancer, a biopsy of the lesion is required to confirm the diagnosis. Surgery is required to remove the tumors, which may cause disfiguration. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be used as part of the treatment.
• How To Be A Dentist
  If you've thought about a career in health care, talk with your dentist, counselor or teacher about the day-to-day responsibilities of a dental professional and the requirements to become one. To begin, you should like science. You'll need biology,
• How to Become a Dentist
  To become a dentist, you need a bachelor's degree with a strong science foundation: biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics are crucial. Admission to dental school, which lasts four years, requires high grades in college and a competitive score
• How to Help Kids Prevent Tooth Decay
  Parents should take their child to the dentist just after the first tooth appears. Brushing teeth after meals, regular flossing and fluoride treatments are the best ways to prevent tooth decay. Children should also be supervise
• How to Minimize Outbreaks
  To prevent transmission of the virus to another person, avoid: Intimate physical contact with others S haring eating utensils, toothbrushes, towels and razors T ouching th
• How to Prevent
  Never allow a child to fall asleep with a bottle containing milk, formula, juice or other sweetened liquids. Clean and massage the baby's gums to help establish healthy teeth and to aid in teething. Wrap a moistened gauze square or washcloth around t
• How to Prevent Oral Cancer
  See a dentist twice a year. Ask your dentist to perform an oral cancer exam and to evaluate abnormalities. Quit smoking, using smokeless tobacco and drinkin
• How to Prevent Oral Cancer
  You can help prevent oral cancer by not smoking, using spit tobacco or drinking excessive alcohol. The risk of oral cancer is 15 times higher in those who both smoke and drink compared to non-users of tobacco and alcohol products. Research suggests
• How to Prevent Tooth Decay in Children
  Children at school should rinse their mouth with water after meals, leaving their teeth free of sugar and acid. Children also should seek sources of fluoridation. If you purchase bottled water, be sure that it is fluoridated. Encourage children to dr
• Is Oral Cancer Painless?
  Oral cancer is typically painless in its early stages and often goes unnoticed by the patient until it spreads, leading to chronic pain and sometimes loss of function before it is diagnosed. In its later stages, oral cancer can lead to surgery and
• Kids Who Drink Soda at Risk for Decay
  Any prolonged exposure to soda can cause damage. Sipping a soft drink all afternoon is more harmful to your teeth than drinking a large soda with a meal and then not drinking any soda for the rest of the day. While many dentists advocate drinking nut
• Pretreatment Strategies
  Contact your general dentist Schedule an oral examination one month before initiation of cancer therapy Treat all pre-existing oral disease Reviewed: January 2012
• Signs of Oral Cancer
  A sore that persists longer than two weeks A swelling, growth or sore spot in or around the mouth or neck White or red patches in the mouth or on the lips Repeated
• Signs of Oral Cancer
  In its earliest and treatable stages, oral cancer can appear as a tiny white or red spots that you may not notice. Only your dentist can uncover these painless spots and test them to be certain they are not cancerous. Advanced signs of oral cancer
• Specialized Dental Fields
  Specialized dental fields include the following: General dentists, the primary dental care provider for all patients, are responsible for the diagnosis, treatment, management and overall coordination of services related to patie
• Stages of a Cold Sore
  Day 1: Prodrome (tingle) stage - Before a cold sore has formed, you may feel a tingling, itching or burning sensation beneath the skin, usually around the mouth or the base of the nose. Applying antiviral medications during this stage can help allev
• Three Ways to Prevent Cavities
  1. Cut down on sweets and between-meal snacks. Remember, it's these sugary and starchy treats that put your teeth at extra risk. Some research says certain foods, such as peanuts or sugar-free chewing gum, may be "friendly" to teeth. Eating these f
• Types of Complications
  Oral complications include salivary gland dysfunction, which leads to dry mouth; rampant dental decay and mouth sores that are painful, diminish the quality of life and can lead to significant compliance problems. According to figures from the Nati
• Warning Signs
  Oral cancer – represented by red, white or discolored lesions, patches or lumps in or around the mouth – is typically painless in its early stages. As the malignant cancer spreads and destroys healthy oral tissue, the lesions or lumps become more p
• What Happens When Exposed to HSV-1
  Most people get HSV-1 infections during infancy or childhood and usually catch the virus from an infected family member or friend. Only an estimated 30 percent of those infected actually develop the characteristic blisters. If sores do develop, the
• What Triggers an Outbreak?
  There may be long periods when the herpes virus remains inactive. The following factors can trigger cold sores: Illness, such as cold or flu D ental treatment Physical
• Who Is at Risk for Cavities?
  Because we all carry bacteria in our mouths, everyone is at risk for cavities. Those with a diet high in carbohydrates and sugary foods and those who live in communities without fluoridated water are likely candidates fo
• Why to Worry About Tooth Decay
  Giving an infant a sugary drink at nap or nighttime is harmful because during sleep, the flow of saliva decreases, allowing the sugary liquids to linger on the child's teeth for an extended period of time. If left untreated, decay can result, which c
• About Tot Toothbrushes
  A dental hygienist designed and introduced the first toddler toothbrush in 1993. It resembles an oblong-shaped teething toy, with one wide end for easy gripping and a narrow end with a small head of bristles. The shape prevents it from being overins
• Bad Breath at Work
  An overwhelming majority – 96 percent – thought that a smile was very or somewhat important to a person's appearance. Furthermore, 32 percent cited "bad breath" as the least attractive trait of their co-workers.
• Cayenne Pepper Helps BMS
  "We've found that topical anesthetics don't help much," Dr. Petty says. "But we've found that getting people to use capsaicin, the natural chemical in cayenne pepper, often does help. Patients can have a pharmacy make up lozenges containing it, or
• Electric or Manual Toothbrush?
  Electric toothbrushes don't work that much better than manual toothbrushes, but they do motivate some reluctant brushers to clean their teeth more often. The whizzing sounds of an electric toothbrush and the tingle of the rotary tufts swirling acro
• How Do Electric Toothbrushes Work?
  Electric toothbrushes generally work by using tufts of nylon bristles to stimulate gums and clean teeth in an oscillating, or rotary, motion. Some tufts are arranged in a circular pattern, while others have the traditional shape of several bristles
• How Foods Cause Acid Attacks
  According to Dr. Hausauer, the sugars and starches in the food we eat fuel bacterial plaque, resulting in an "acid attack" on tooth enamel. While visible evidence of food may disappear, plaque bacteria continue to grow. Eventually, plaque can build
• How Is BMS Diagnosed?
  BMS is difficult to diagnose because its cause can stem from any number of conditions, both physical and psychological. For this reason it’s important to consult with your dentist and physician to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Your dentist
• How to Brush Teeth
  Place the toothbrush beside your teeth at a 45-degree angle and rub back-and-forth gently. Brush outside and behind the teeth, your tongue and especially on chewing surfaces and between teeth. Be sure to brush at least twice a day, especially after
• How to Store a Toothbrush
  Splattering water, contact with skin and toothbrushes knocking against one another are all circumstances that contribute to the spread of bacteria. Dr. Glazer recommends rinsing bristles thoroughly, then shaking any extra moisture from the brush an
• How Will A Dentist Treat BMS?
  Treatment for BMS depends on the patient and the cause. If the cause is related to the oral cavity, your dentist has a variety of ways to provide relief. For dry mouth, your dentist may advise that you drink more fluids, or he or she may prescribe m
• Is Air Abrasion for Everyone?
  Yes. Air abrasion is an especially good option for children or anyone who may be afraid of the needle, noise, and vibration of a regular dental drill. However, there are some treatments—such as crowns, inlays, onlays, and bridges—which still require
• Is Contact with Gloves the Only Problem?
  Prolonged exposure to airborne latex dust from powdered gloves can trigger an allergic reaction. The starch powder in the lining of many gloves worn by health care workers "picks up" the latex proteins, which become airborne when the wearer removes
• Leave a Toothbrush at Work
  The survey also revealed that leaving an extra toothbrush at the office, rather than carrying one with you, increases your likelihood of brushing at work by 65 percent. "Leaving a toothbrush at the office and remembering to brush at work can reduce
• Make Sure It's Not A Larger Condition
  Dr. Petty says the first goal in treatment of BMS is to make sure the symptoms are not due to a larger condition, such as anemia, leukemia, severe vitamin deficiency, undiagnosed diabetes or a fungal infection of the mouth. But these causes account
• Other BMS Treatments
  Other medications used to treat the disorder include antibacterials, analgesics, vitamin and mineral replacements, benzodiazepines, antihistamines and antidepressants. It is also thought that hormonal replacement may be another option.
• Other Tips When Brushing at the Office
  Women are the largest group of brushers at the office, with 53 percent brushing at work versus 37 percent of men. Good dental hygiene in general means better oral hygiene at work. Those who brush three o
• Parents Serve as Brushing Role Models
  "Parents need to be good role models," says Dr. Roesch. "They need to take good care of their own teeth and make dental care part of the daily routine for the whole family. Adults should supervise children while brushing. Adults also should help ch
• Pinpointing the Source
  "Pinpointing the pain source can be a trying task for patients and their health care providers," explains Andres Pinto, DMD, lead report author, who states more females in their 20s and 30s are experiencing this syndrome, oftentimes due to str
• Possible BMS Treatments
  Drinking more fluids Medications that promote the flow of saliva Antifungal therapy Vitamin and mineral replacemen
• Signs of BMS
  Burning sensations in mouth area D ry mouth Altered taste perception Changes in eating habits Irritability
• What Are Common Symptoms of BMS?
  There are a variety of symptoms associated with BMS. The main symptom is a burning sensation, ranging from moderate to severe, in your mouth, throat, lips and tongue. Many patients have described the feeling as “scalding.” Other symptoms include dry
• What Causes Allergic Reactions?
  Allergic reactions that occur in the dental office may be caused by materials or medications. These allergens may include: Latex. Latex can be found in many medical or dental supplies and devices, such as masks, gloves, and syringes. U
• What Causes BMS?
  The exact cause of BMS is difficult to determine. In 30 percent of cases it is caused by a variety of existing conditions that affect the oral and systemic health. Some conditions include the onset of menopause, diabetes and deficiencies in such nut
• What If A Dentist Can’t Treat BMS?
  If your dentist determines that there are no oral conditions causing BMS, he or she may refer you to your family physician or a specialist. The physician will most likely start with a complete blood test to determine the best course of treatment. If
• When to Change a Toothbrush
  Be sure to change your toothbrush, or toothbrush head (if you're using an electric toothbrush) before the bristles become splayed and frayed. Not only are old toothbrushes ineffective, but they may harbor harmful bacteria that can cause infections
• Which Toothbrush Is Best?
  Generally, a toothbrush should have a long, wide handle (for a firm grasp) and soft nylon bristles with rounded ends so you won't hurt your gums. A toothbrush head should be small (1" by 1/2") for easy access to all areas of the mouth, teeth and
• Why Are Latex Allergies Rising?
  Latex allergy is recognized as an increasingly serious medical problem that affects not only health care workers but also the general population. This increase may be attributed to health care workers' increased use of latex gloves as a universal pr
• Sensitive Teeth? Check Your Toothpaste
  Some patients may experience tooth sensitivity when using tartar-control toothpaste, but the good news is that when they stop using the toothpaste, the sensitivity goes away.   "Dentists and hygienists often recommend that
• Alleviate Toothache Pain
  Anyone with a toothache should see a dentist at once for diagnosis and treatment because, if left untreated, your condition can worsen. However, if you are unable to schedule an emergency appointment, a self-care treatment can temporarily alleviate p
• Causes of Tooth Erosion
  Tooth erosion occurs when the enamel on your teeth is worn away by acid. Usually the calcium contained in saliva will help remineralize (or strengthen) your teeth after you consume small amounts of acid, but the presence of a lot of acid in y
• Dry Sockets
  Dry socket, the most common postoperative complication from tooth extractions, delays the normal healing process and results when the newly formed blood clot in the extraction site does not form correctly or is prematurely lost. The blood clot lays t
• How Long Should I Brush?
  It might be a good idea to brush with the radio on, since dentists generally recommend brushing three to four minutes, the average length of a song. Using an egg timer is another way to measure your brushing time. Patients generally think they're b
• How Much Toothpaste to Use
  Contrary to what toothpaste commercials show, the amount of paste or gel needed on your brush for effective cleaning does not have to be a heaping amount. Simply squeeze a pea-sized dab of paste on the top half of your brush. If you brush correctly
• How to Prevent Dry Socket
  "Stop smoking for at least 24 hours after wisdom-teeth extractions. This is critical to preventing dry socket," says AGD spokesperson E. Mac Edington, DDS, MAGD, ABGD. Smoking decreases the blood supply to the protective blood clots, brings toxic produ
• How Your Dentist Can Help
  Your dentist will conduct a complete oral examination to determine the location and cause of the toothache, looking for signs of swelling, redness and obvious tooth damage. He or she may also take X-rays looking for evidence of tooth decay between te
• Improve Office Brushing Habits
  Post a sticky note on your desk or computer as a reminder to brush teeth after lunch. Brush teeth right after lunch, before you become absorbed in work. Store your toothbrush and toothp
• Prevent Osteoporosis
  Consume calcium daily (1,000 to 1,200 milligrams) Exercise and weight train Add vitamin D to diet Quit smoking Decrease caffeine and alcohol intake Visit a dentist regularly
• Prevent Tooth Erosion
  Because there are different reasons why you may experience tooth erosion (e.g., swishing carbonated drinks, drinking a lot of juice or wine, eating disorders), talk to your dentist about your habits so that a plan for preventive action can be dete
• Prevent Toothaches
  The key to preventing toothaches is establishing a regular oral hygiene routine and sticking to it. For example, failure to brush and floss regularly after meals can significantly increase your risk of developing cavities. Aft
• Process for Getting Veneers
  Patients may need up to three appointments for the entire procedure: diagnosis and treatment planning, preparation and bonding. It's critical that you take an active role in the smile design. Spend time in the planning of the smile.
• Reasons to Remove Wisdom Teeth
  Common reasons for wisdom teeth removal include impaction, pain and crowding of the other teeth. "If wisdom teeth are not visible, they are impacted or unable to erupt due to space and size limitations," says Dr.
• Risk Factors for Osteoporosis
  Risk factors for the disease are: heredity, calcium deficiency, smoking, menopause, excessive caffeine or alcohol and an inactive lifestyle. As the disease progresses, the vertebral bones can become weakened, res
• Should I Brush at Work?
  Definitely, but most Americans don't brush during the workday. Yet a survey by Oral-B Laboratories and the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) shows if you keep a toothbrush at work, the chances you will brush during the day increase by 65 percent.
• Signs of Tooth Erosion
  Below are some signs of tooth erosion, ranging from its early stages (sensitivity, discoloration, rounded teeth) to the later, more severe stages (cracks, severe sensitivity, cupping). Sensitivi
• Soft or Hard Bristles?
  In general, a toothbrush head should be small (1" by 1/2") for easy access. It should have a long, wide handle for a firm grasp and soft, nylon bristles with round ends. Some brushes are too abrasive and can wear down teeth. A soft, rounded, multi-
• Toothbrush Storage Habits
  Always store your toothbrush in a travel container. Dry your toothbrush after use and before returning to its container. Change the toothbrush you take to work more often than your toothbrush at home to avo
• Treatment of Burning Mouth Syndrome
  Dr. Petty says the first goal in treatment of BMS is to make sure the symptoms are not due to a larger condition, such as anemia, leukemia, severe vitamin deficiency, undiagnosed diabetes or a fungal infection of the mouth. But these causes account f
• What is Dry Socket?
  Dry socket is a painful condition that occurs when newly formed blood clots at the site of the tooth extraction do not develop correctly or are prematurely lost. Dry socket delays the healing process, much like picking at a scab on the knee delays the
• What to Avoid After Tooth Extraction
  Anyone who just had a tooth extracted should avoid drinking through a straw, because the suction will interfere with healthier clotting. "Avoid smoking, which can contaminate the extraction site, and excessive mouth rinsing, which may also interfere
• What to Expect with Veneers
  For about a week or two, you will go through a period of adjustment as you get used to your "new" teeth that have changed in size and shape. Brush and floss daily. After one or two weeks, your dentist will ask you to return for a follow-up appointm
• What Type of Toothpaste to Use
  As long as your toothpaste contains fluoride, the brand you buy really does not matter, neither does whether or not it is in paste, gel or even powder form, or containing a certain flavor. All fluoride toothpastes work effectively to fight plaque a
• When to Remove Wisdom Teeth
  The following symptoms may indicate that the wisdom teeth have erupted and surfaced, and should be removed before they become impacted, in other words, the teeth have surfaced and have no room in the mouth to grow. However, each individual may experi
• Who Is at Risk for Dry Socket?
  "Women have a greater chance than men to develop dry socket," says Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) spokesperson Barbara A. Rich, DDS, FAGD. "But, for women who take oral contraceptives, their likelihood of developing a dry socket is twice as likely
• Why Does My Tooth Ache?
  You may have a dental cavity or advanced gum disease. The first sign of decay may be the pain you feel when you eat something sweet, very cold or very hot. If the pulp – the inside of the tooth that has tissue and nerves – has become irritated, this
• Dentists Help Confirm Osteoporosis
  Osteoporosis, a disease that decreases bone density and weakens bones, affects 10 million people. In addition, more than one-third of females over age 65 display signs and symptoms of the disease. Most individuals inflicted with osteo
• What Is an Impaction?
  When wisdom teeth are prevented from erupting into the mouth properly, they are referred to as being impacted. Teeth that have not erupted are not necessarily impacted. It may be that it is still too early in someone's dental development, and if time
• Caring for Your Teeth When Pregnant
  Dr. Steinberg says women may need more frequent dental exams during pregnancy, and recommends that women "even contemplating pregnancy," get an oral exam. When your dentist asks you whether you have recently given
• Detecting and Preventing HPV
  Recently, a vaccine was developed to treat patients with HPV against cervical cancer, and this could have an effect on women’s oral health. “More than 100 strains of HPV have been identified,” says Dr. Closmann.
• How to Detect a Problem
  Keep your dentist informed if you experience changes in your oral health or if you are approaching a different life stage. Also, visiting your dentist regularly will help him or her see any physical changes in your mouth. Your dentist should complete
• My Baby's Health
  Research suggests a link between preterm, low-birthweight babies and gingivitis. Excessive bacteria can enter the bloodstream through your gums. If this happens, the bacteria can travel to the uterus, triggering the production of chemicals called pro
• Oral Health Tips for Women
  Keep your dentist informed about changes in oral health. Visit the dentist regularly, which will help them to detect changes in the mouth. Ask your dentist to take a full medical history to determin
• Preventing Gingivitis
  You can prevent gingivitis by keeping your teeth clean, especially near the gumline. You should brush with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day and after each meal when possible. You should also floss thoroughly each day. If brushing causes morni
• Stages of Women's Oral Health
  Puberty: The surge in hormones that occurs during puberty may cause swollen gums, especially during menstruation. Mouth sores also can develop. Girls may experience sensitive gums that react more to irritants. Oral contraceptives: Oral
• Visiting the Dentist During Pregnancy
  If you're planning to become pregnant or suspect you're pregnant, you should see a dentist right away. Otherwise, you should schedule a checkup in your first trimester for a cleaning. Your dentist will assess your oral condition and map out a dental
• What to Expect
  Early on, menstruation may cause swollen gums and mouth sores. Later in life, women going through menopause may experience oral problems like pain, burning sensation, altered taste, and dry mouth, as well as bone loss due to osteoporosis, a condition
• Anxiety Increases Dental Diseases
  Patients with anxiety disorders may disregard their oral health altogether and are at an increased risk for cavities, periodontal (gum) disease and bruxism (teeth grinding). Anxiety could be caused by being anxious of a needle and complicated proce
• Cost & Adjusting to Braces
  Cost depends on the type of braces recommended by your dentist. On average, braces cost $5,000 to $6,000. Check with your major medical or dental insurance provider to determine if your plan covers orthodontic work. Yo
• Create Realistic Expectations
  No one can really predict how much lighter your teeth will become. Every case is different. Typically, there is a two-shade improvement as seen on a dentist's shade guide. The success rate depends upon the type of stain involved, the type of bleach
• Dental Anxiety is a Real Condition
  "Today's dentists recognize dental anxiety is a real condition," says Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson William Kuttler, DDS, FAGD. "Helping patients overcome their fear of visiting the dentist has become just as important as mastering the
• Discuss Fears with Your Dentist
  Patients can help by discussing their fear of visiting the dentist openly and honestly with their dentist. If not addressed, dental anxiety can lead to unnecessary oral health problems as a result of avoiding the dentist, which in
• Do I Have to Avoid Certain Foods?
  Yes. Cut down on sweets, chips and soda. Sugary and starchy foods generate acids and plaque that can cause tooth decay and promote gum disease. Cut healthy, hard foods like carrots or apples into smaller pieces. Sticky, chewy
• Foods to Avoid & Still See Your Dentist
  It's a good idea to skip foods that can damage or dislodge braces. Hard foods such as candy, raw carrots, corn on the cob, pretzels, nuts, popcorn and crushed ice are off-limits. Sticky foods to avoid include caramel, taffy and gum. These foods can
• How Can I Find Out if I Need Braces?
  Consult with your dentist and ask for an evaluation. Many general dentists have received additional training in orthodontics and have chosen to incorporate it into their practice. Depending on the complexity of your ca
• How Dentists Help Anxious Children
  Some children are anxious because they are visiting the dentist's office for the first time. This experience into the unknown is a common reason for nervousness. The dentist or a member of his or her staff will talk directly with the child to make
• How Dentists Relieve Anxiety
  Your dentist works to reduce your anxiety before you even step foot in the dental office. This process begins on the phone, while making appointments. Your dentist's office staff has been trained in caring patient services; and they will inform you
• How Food Relieves Anxiety
  Start by eating foods high in protein and avoiding caffeine. Foods high in protein produce a calming effect, unlike sugary foods. Also, some dentists prescribe and administer medication to help patients relax, the most common being a mixture of lau
• How it Works and Safety
  Lightness should last from one to five years, depending on your personal habits such as smoking and drinking coffee and tea. At this point you may choose to get a touch-up. The retreatment time is much shorter than the original treatment time.
• How Long Do I Need to Wear Braces?
  That depends upon your treatment plan. The more complicated your spacing or bite problem is, and the older you are, the longer the period of treatment, usually. Most patients can count on wearing full braces between 12 and 24 months, followed by th
• How to Relieve Dental Anxiety
  In general, avoid caffeine before a dental appointment to make you less anxious. Eating high-protein foods also produces a calming effect, unlike sugary foods. During the procedure, focus on breathing regularly and slowly. When they are nervous, so
• How to Stay Calm Before Visits
  Pick up the phone. Your dentist’s office staff has been trained in caring patient services; they will inform you of what to expect and answer your questions to ensure your confidence and comfort during your visit. Rel
• Is Bleaching Safe?
  While bleaching is safe, it requires a dentist's supervision to ensure proper results. Not only may an over-the-counter product not work well enough, says Dr. Bromberg, but it might work too well. "There is a wide range in results when using these
• Is Ortho Treatment Different for Adults?
  Like children, adults can receive the same benefit of an improved smile and oral health from wearing braces. However, since adults are no longer growing, treatment may take longer than it does for teenagers. The average adult wears braces for 18 mo
• Is Treatment Uncomfortable?
  The interconnecting wires of traditional braces are tightened at each visit, bearing mild pressure on the brackets or bands to shift teeth or jaws gradually into a desired position. Your teeth and jaws may feel slightly sore after each visit, but t
• Medications to Help You Relax
  Some dentists prescribe and administer medications to help patients relax during the appointment. Talk to your dentist about your concerns and ask him or her about the possibility of using dental sedation. Sedation dentistry involves the use of med
• Study of Whitening Strips
  In his report, Dr. Donly studied and compared two groups of teenagers who used whitening strips. One group used a 10 percent hydrogen peroxide whitening strip and the other group used a 6.5 percent hydrogen peroxide strip that had a thicker gel lay
• Teens' Increase in Whitening Requests
  "Teens should visit their dentist instead of the mall for a healthy, white smile," says AGD spokesperson Manuel Cordero, DDS, MAGD, who has seen a steady increase in his teen patients' requests for this procedure. Prop
• Tips for Overcoming Dental Anxiety
  Talk to your dentist, they can help. Avoid caffeine and sugar before a dental appointment; they may make you anxious. Schedule dental appointments early in the day, before you become stressed or rushed.
• Tips for Teens and Parents on Whitening
  According to Dr. Cordero, teens should wait for whitening procedures until at least the age of 14. At this time, the tooth's pulp is fully formed, which means the teen will experience less sensitivity. Drink soda and coffee th
• Types of Braces
  Braces are custom-made appliances that use gentle pressure to straighten your teeth and correct your bite. While some practitioners still favor metal braces as the most reliable, new materials and other advances offer smaller, less noticeable brace
• What About Home Care?
  With braces, oral hygiene is more important than ever. Braces have tiny spaces where food particles and plaque get trapped. Brush carefully after every meal with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and check your te
• What Kind of Braces Do I Need?
  Your dentist will know what appliance is best for your particular problem, but you often have a choice. Braces generally come in three varieties: The most popular type are brackets, metal, ceramic or plastic, that are bonded to teeth. Ceramic brack
• What Questions Should I Ask?
  Most initial consultations provide an opportunity to ask questions about orthodontic treatment such as: What are the costs involved? How will the braces correct my problem?
• What to Do to Relieve Dental Anxiety
  Knowledge is the greatest defense against anxiety. Avoiding caffeine before a dental appointment can make you less anxious. Eating high-protein foods produces a calming effect, unlike sugary foods. During the procedure, focus on breathing regularly
• What to do When Seeing a New Dentist
  If you are seeing a new dentist for the first time, schedule an appointment for a visit—a visit that doesn't require a cleaning or treatment. Take the opportunity to ask the dentist questions and address your concerns. You'll find that a dentist wh
• What You Need to Know Before Whitening
  Do not eat or drink anything after whitening that might cause a stain (coffee, tea, etc.). Existing crowns or fillings will not respond to the whitening agent. Strips do not whiten entire arches. They on
• What's Involved?
  First, the dentist will determine whether you are a candidate for tooth bleaching and what type of bleaching system would provide the best results. If you're in a hurry for whiter teeth, you may decide to have your teeth lightened immediately. Yo
• Who Provides My Treatment?
  Your general dentist is responsible for coordinating your dental treatment, and this could encompass any orthodontic treatment plan, including diagnosis, examinations and some orthodontic procedures. Your dentist may, however, refer you to an ortho
• Why People Want Whiter Teeth
  “There is an intense interest in cosmetics and improved appearance by baby boomers and Generation Xers,” says Henry Finger, DDS, FAGD, AGD spokesperson. “Teens especially want to improve their appearance because of peer pressure, publications they
• Causes & Suffering
  People who have otherwise healthy teeth and gums can clench so often and so hard that over time their teeth become sensitive. They experience jaw pain, tense muscles and headaches along with excessive wear on their teeth. Forceful biting when not e
• Dental Tips for Heart Patients
  Always inform your dentist if you suffer from any heart condition. Explain the nature of your problem and if it is under control. List all medications you
• Gum Disease and Your Heart
  The current theory is that bacteria present in infected gums can come loose and move throughout the body. The same bacteria that cause gum disease and irritate your gums might travel to your arteries. Researchers are unsure what causes the bacteria t
• How Your Dentist Can Help
  Your dentist automatically checks for signs of bruxism during routine visits. Once the problem is identified, treatment can begin. Therapy helps to change a bruxer’s behavior by learning how to rest the tongue upward with teeth apart and lips shut.
• How Your Spouse Can Help
  A spouse or significant other can play a key role in helping bruxers get the treatment they need. If your spouse complains about strange, squeaking noises that keep him or her awake at night, you may be grinding your teeth.
• Protect Your Heart
  Keep your mouth healthy! Gum disease is a serious gum infection that should always be taken seriously. Although gum disease can often show few or no symptoms at all, watch for gums that are red and irritated or bleed easily. There are many new treatm
• Protect Your Heart at the Dentist
  General dentists develop dental plans on a regular basis for a wide variety of patients with heart problems, says AGD spokesperson Derek Ichimura, DDS. "Heart patients need special care. Communication is key. Don't assume your dentist knows your medi
• Signs of Bruxism
  Tips of the teeth look flat Tooth enamel is rubbed off, causing extreme sensitivity Popping and clicking of the jaw Tongue indentations Reviewed: January 2012
• What Are the Signs?
  When a person has bruxism, the tips of the teeth look flat. Teeth are worn down so much that the enamel is rubbed off, exposing the inside of the tooth, which is called dentin. When exposed, dentin may cause the tooth to become sensitive. Bruxers m
• What Can be Done?
  Your general dentist automatically checks for physical signs of bruxism and if it seems to be present the condition may be observed over several visits before recommending and starting therapy. The objective of therapy is to
• Types of X-Rays
  Typically, most X-rays require patients to hold or bite down on a piece of plastic with X-ray film in the center. Some dentists are now using digital X-rays. To take a digital X-ray, your dentist will place a sensor on
• Acupuncture and Radiation Therapy
  After undergoing head and neck radiation therapy, seven patients with dry mouth were treated using acupuncture. Patients were seen once a week for four to five weeks, followed by two or three biweekly sessions. Dr. Morg
• Aloe Vera Speeds Healing
  Aloe vera accelerates healing and reduces pain associated with cold sores, which are blisters on the lips or around the mouth. Aloe vera does not have a bad taste or sting when applied. The journal article, written by Ri
• Anxiety & Needles
  However, Gene Antenucci, DDS, FAGD, and an AGD spokesperson, feels that patients become fearful when they see the needle. “Often times, when a patient sees a needle coming, the pain perception is heightened,” he says. However, dentists can do
• Anxiety & Sedation
  “The level of sedation that a patient needs is individualized and based on their level of anxiety and their response to a particular level of sedation,” says Jim Richeson, DDS, FAGD, AGD spokesperson and a past president of the AGD. “Some will resp
• Canker Sore? Try Teabags
  Dr. Shapira recommends some natural remedies for oral health: Fluoride – This naturally occurring mineral has been proven to protect teeth from decay. Many municipal water supplies contain fluoride. Other sources are fluoride too
• Drug Combinations to Avoid
  Even the most common herbal and vitamin supplements can have serious side effects for some patients. Blood thinners, such as the popular ginkgo biloba, and even vitamin E can be dangerous when taken with aspirin, which also acts as a blood thinner.
• Dry Mouth Harms Quality of Life
  The quality of life of patients suffering from dry mouth is often profoundly impaired. Symptoms include extensive dental decay, infections of the tissues of the mouth, difficulty in speaking, eating and swallowing, ulceration or soreness of the mou
• Four Tips to Relieve Anxiety
  Avoid caffeine before a dental appointment. Eat high-protein foods, which produce a calming effect, unlike sugary foods. During the procedure, focus on breathing regularly and slowly. When you
• How Does it Work?
  Patients who are minimally sedated inhale nitrous oxide through a mask during their dental appointment and/or may take a recommended dosage of a single oral sedative medication. Moderately sedated patients generally have taken a medication or a c
• How to Ease Dry Mouth
  Brush and floss twice a day Chew sugarless gum Avoid alcohol and caffeine Avoid smoking Avoid overly salty foods Drink plenty of water Avoid citrus juices (tomato, orange, grapefr
• How to Treat Canker Sores
  Common causes of canker sores Local trauma and stress Diet and food allergies Hormonal changes Use of certain medications Common treatments of canker sores: Antimicrobial mouthw
• How To Use Aloe Vera
  Use of aloe vera plants: Aloe vera plants are available at most plant stores and nurseries. Place near a window. Water when the soil is dry. Do not overwater. To get the gel out of the plant, use
• Is Dental Anesthesia Safe?
  Although taking any medication involves a certain amount of risk, the drugs that produce anesthesia are entirely safe when administered by a trained anesthesia provider. The best thing to do is ask questions about any procedure with which you are n
• Is It Safe?
  Sedation is safe although you should talk to your dentist and/or the specialist and gain a thorough understanding of how it works and what is expected of you before the procedure. Your medical history will be examined comprehensively to ensure safe
• More Info on Alternative Therapies
  The best person to ask is a physician who is licensed in naturopathic medicine. There are a few accredited schools in the United States that offer degrees in natural healing. Some of these schools can offer referrals to their graduates. For example
• Parents Pass on Canker Sores
  Among the causes of canker sores, a genetic predisposition might be the biggest cause, says Michael Martin, DMD, PhD, lead author of the study. “When both parents have a history of canker sores, the likelihood of their children developing them can
• Pros and Cons of Sedation
  Minimal and moderate sedation reduce anxiety that is typically associated with dentistry and allow the patient to relax. The amnesia usually associated with these methods also is a plus for many patients. However, sedation in dentistry does have dis
• Quick Tips on Sedation
  The type of sedation a patient needs is determined by the dentist and is individualized. Different levels of sedation require different medications. Dentists who are trained in sed
• The Pros and Cons
  Because air abrasion procedures are virtually painless, anesthetic injections are generally unnecessary. Also, no vibrations or heat from friction are produced by air abrasion systems, which are quiet and will not harm soft mouth tissue. Because ai
• Top Tips to Prevent Reactions
  Patients with a latex allergy should consider visiting the dentist first thing in the morning before latex and powdered gloves are used, recommends AGD spokesperson Maharukh Kravich, DDS, FAGD. “Particles of latex build up in the air as the day goe
• What Are Levels of Anesthesia?
  Local anesthesia is produced by the application or injection of a drug to eliminate pain in a specific area in the mouth. Topical anesthetics are frequently used by your dentist to numb an area in preparation for administering an injectable local a
• What Are the Symptoms?
  An individual with latex allergy can experience a range of symptoms, including hay-fever type reactions such as itchy, swollen eyes, runny nose and sneezing. Hives, dermatitis (skin rash) and asthma are the most common reactions. The most severe all
• What Are the Symptoms?
  A person who is allergic can experience a range of symptoms, including itchy, swollen eyes; a runny nose; and sneezing. Hives, dermatitis (skin rash), and asthma also are common reactions. The most severe allergic reaction is the potentially fatal
• What Happens?
  Your dentist might ask you to wear protective glasses during the procedure, and a rubber dam might be placed inside your mouth and around the tooth area being treated. Air abrasion procedures may leave some dusty particles in your mouth that make y
• What Medications Are Involved?
  To reach a level of minimal sedation, a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen (30-50 percent) may be used, possibly in combination with a minimal dose of an anti-anxiety (benzodiazepine) pill. In combination with nitrous gas, it is important that pat
• What Should I Do if I Am Allergic?
  Be sure to inform your dentist about your latex allergy as part of your complete medical history. This includes any drug allergies. If you have been diagnosed with latex allergy, inform your dentist before treatment and ask the office whether it ha
• What Should I Do if I Am Allergic?
  If you have allergies, be sure to tell your dentist and dental staff, and make sure that the information is included in your patient chart. If you have had severe allergic reactions, you should consider carrying an epinephrine kit (EpiPen®) and
• What Should I Tell My Dentist Before Treatment?
  Your dentist needs to know about all the medications that you are taking, any allergic reactions you've had to medicines in the past, and your past and present health conditions. It's important that you answer your dentist's questions completely an
• Who Is at Risk?
  Almost everybody is exposed to latex, but not everyone who manifests symptoms of latex allergy has been diagnosed. As a general rule, people who are continually exposed to latex – usually at work – or have had multiple surgeries have a higher risk
• Why Herbals Are Not Always Safe
  "People think herbs are harmless because they are considered 'natural,' and they think, if one is good, 10 are better," said Dr. Shapira. But overdoing it with supposedly safe herbs can cause health problems as serious as internal bleeding and hear
• Why Tell Dentists About Supplements
  It is important that your dentist has all the information, including your medical history, herbal medication and conventional drugs you are taking. If your dentist knows that you are taking a medication that can interact with something he
• Why You Need the Facts
  "It is important to have all the facts, and always check with your dentist before you take any medications," says Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson Eric Shapira, DDS, MAGD. Often, there can be reactions between prescribed and herbal medicat
• Will I Feel Anything?
  Air abrasion procedures can leave an accumulation of harmless, dusty particle debris in the patient's mouth, resulting in a gritty feeling that is eradicated by rinsing. Your dentist may require you to wear protective glasses during the procedure,
• Can Tobacco Products Harm My Mouth?
  Using tobacco can harm your mouth, including your teeth and gums, in a number of ways. There is no safe form of tobacco—using it produces many problems and risk factors, from tooth discoloration and gum disease to throat, lung, and oral cancer, and,
• Dental Insurance: May Help Take the Bite Out of Bills
  Dental insurance can be helpful to patients in defraying the costs when paying for dental treatment. Insurance, however, can sometimes be a double-edged sword and it is important for consumers to investigate what plans will keep them and their fami
• What Is an Oral Piercing?
  Oral piercing can cause pain, swelling, infection, drooling, taste loss, scarring, chipped teeth, and tooth loss. Most dentists discourage oral piercing due to the many risks involved. If you do decide to get an oral piercing it is important to under
• What Is Minimally Invasive Dentistry?
  The goal of minimally invasive dentistry, or microdentistry, is to conserve healthy tooth structure. It focuses on prevention, remineralization, and minimal dentist intervention. Using scientific advances, minimally invasive dentistry allows dentists
• What Is Tooth Erosion?
  Tooth erosion, or tooth wear, is the loss of tooth structure. Basically, tooth erosion refers to the wearing away of the hard part of your teeth, which is called the enamel. Many people consume carbonated beverag
• Daily Tips for Good Oral Hygiene
  Daily Tips for Good Oral Hygiene Bacteria can live in your mouth in the form of plaque, causing cavities and gingivitis, which can lead to periodontal (gum) disease. In order to keep your mouth clean, you must practice good oral hygien
• Does My Child Need to See a Pediatric Dentist?
  Does my child need to be taken to a pediatric dentist? Pediatric dentists are specially trained to handle problems particular to children, such as dental developmental difficulties and root canals on adult teeth that have not fully formed. Ho
• How to Choose a Dentist
  How to Choose a Dentist It is generally acknowledged that more than 46 percent of consumers do not have a general dentist. Many consumers turn to the phone book to search for a new family dentist. However, this tool
• The Facts on Sedation
  Sedation allows dentists to create a state of relaxation and thus manage the fear and pain patients may experience during dental procedures. There are several different types of sedation in dentistry. Local anesthesia is adm
• What Are Mouth Rinses?
  Mouth rinse or mouthwash is a product used for oral hygiene. Antiseptic and anti-plaque mouth rinse claims to kill the germs that cause plaque, gingivitis, and bad breath. Anti-cavity mouth rinse uses fluoride to protect against tooth decay. Mouth ri
• What Are Types of Allergic Reactions?
  Allergic reactions are sensitivities to a specific substance, called an allergen, that makes contact with the skin, or is inhaled into the lungs, swallowed, or injected. Some allergic reactions are mild, while others can be severe and life-threateni
• What Do Dentists Do to Relieve Anxiety?
  Patients become anxious about going to the dentist for different reasons. This may include fear of receiving local anesthetic or concerns about the effectiveness of the anesthesia. Negative past experiences also may play a large role in a patient's
• What Is Amalgam?
  When your dentist determines that you have a cavity in a tooth, he or she will tell you that you need a filling. But what exactly will your dentist use to fill the hole after the decay has been removed? Dental amalgam is the most widely used and resea
• What Is Dental Insurance?
  What is the best dental insurance plan for me? Although there is no perfect dental insurance plan, some plans will be better than others for you and your family. Dental insurance plans primarily differ in how much you have
• What Is Laser Dentistry?
  What is Laser Dentistry? What is a laser and how does it work? A laser is an instrument that produces a very narrow, intense beam of light energy. When laser light comes in contact with tissue, it causes a r
• What to Do in a Dental Emergency
  What to Do in a Dental Emergency People risk breaking their teeth or otherwise injuring their mouths while eating, playing, exercising, and participating in other seemingly harmless activities. It’s important to understand
• Why Are Minerals and Nutrients Important for Oral Health?
  Why are minerals and nutrients important for oral health? You must include minerals and nutrients in your diet in order for the body’s tissues to resist infection. The presence of too much or too little of any nutrient can have
• Ensure You Have an Allergy-Free Dental Visit
  Itchy, swollen eyes, sneezing and a runny nose may sound like a case of seasonal allergies, but for many it’s the reality faced each time they visit the dentist. According to the February 2008 issue of AGD Impact, the monthly newsmagazine of the Ac
• Licorice Root Extract Treats Canker Sores
  What common oral condition appears as shallow ulcers of different sizes, affects one in five Americans, can be caused by food allergies and hormonal changes, and also can cause severe mouth pain? Commonly referred to as “canker sores,” recurre
• Temporary Dentures Improve Patients' Smiles and Overall Health
  As people begin to realize how their appearance may influence their social life, many are turning to alternative methods to perfect their smile. Temporary dentures are not only economically feasible to wear while waiting for a permanent denture,
• Don't Let Good Hygiene Habits Hibernate!
  Don't Let Good Hygiene Habits Hibernate! W inter is a busy time for most; with all of the parties, dinners, shopping, celebrations, and altered schedules, it’s difficult to remember all of the tasks that are routine in the “off m
• Know Sedation Options to Receive Best Treatment
  When people visit the dentist to undergo a procedure, sometimes, they may need local anesthesia to eliminate the pain. Others need treatment to calm the fears that may accompany procedures. This treatment is called sedation, and it allows dentists
• Medications and Dental Materials May Equal Infection for Diabetic Patients
  P eople who live with diabetes on a daily basis are usually instructed to eat right, maintain regular physical activity, and if necessary, take medication. What many may not know is that these medications that help control healthy insulin levels may
• Minimally Invasive Veneers Dramatically Change Smiles
  U nhappy with your smile, but unsure of which procedure is best for you? Fortunately, there are various conservative cosmetic treatment options available to patients, according to a study in the November 2007 issue of General Dentistry , th
• Minimally Invasive Veneers Dramatically Change Smiles
  U nhappy with your smile, but unsure of which procedure is best for you? Fortunately, there are various conservative cosmetic treatment options available to patients, according to a study in the November 2007 issue of General Dentistry , the
• How Dentists Help Anxious Patients
  Does anesthesia make you antsy? Does the chair make you cringe? If so, you’re not alone, fear of the dentist is a common one. So much so, in fact, that more than 20 million Americans avoid going to the dentist because of fear, according to th
• To Keep Mouths Safe, Don’t Just Wear a Mouthguard; Keep it Clean!
  Fractured teeth, neck injuries and abrasions in the mouth, also known as sports-related dental injuries, are ever present among athletes. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, sports-related dental injuries account for more than 600,000 eme
• To Keep Mouths Safe, Don’t Just Wear a Mouthguard; Keep it Clean!
  Fractured teeth, neck injuries and abrasions in the mouth, also known as sports-related dental injuries, are ever present among athletes. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, sports-related dental injuries account for more than 600,000
• Why Musicians Can’t Toot Their Horns with New Veneers
  We all know that everyone needs to see a dentist, and everyone’s mouth is different. But certain patients use their mouths in different ways than the average dental patient. Musicians who use their mouths to play musical instruments have very speci
• You Are How You Eat: A Look at Pica
  Pop, candy, coffee—you’ve heard the countless number of things that will cause dental erosion, abrasion, and tooth loss, but eating habits matter just as much as what you consume. According to a study published in the September/October 2007 issu
• Does Needle Size Matter?
  Many people are hesitant to visit the dentist for a variety of reasons, such as concerns about the pain that may be involved. For many patients, needles (as well as needle size) in particular may invoke a great deal of anxiety. However, in a s
• HPV Vaccines May Decrease Chances of Oral Cancer
  The Centers for Disease Control report that nearly 25 million women are infected with some form of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Of those, more than three million are thought to have one of the four strains known to cause cases of cervical can
• Temporal Arteritis: Don't Let This Disease Fool You
  Could your reoccurring headache be a sign of a much more severe disease? According to a report that appeared in the January/February 2007 issue of General Dentistry , the AGD’s clinical, peer-reviewed journal, older individuals who experie
• What Does Your Mouth Say About Your Overall Health?
  L iving in a fast-paced society where fast food seems to dominate the food chain can mean a great deal for oral health – and poor food choices can even have a negative effect on teeth. In fact, in order for the body’s tissues to resist
• Wrong Choice of Mouthwash Could Have Negative Side Effects
  Wrong Choice of Product Could Have Negative Side Effects Brush. Floss. Rinse mouth with mouthwash. From a young age, people are taught to follow this procedure to maximize the benefits of proper oral hygiene, but could mouth rinse actually cause
• Correct Diagnosis Provides Relief for Those with Dry Mouth
  Having difficulty speaking, eating, and swallowing? Under stress, upset, or taking medications? These combinations place people at risk for a painful condition known as dry mouth, according to an article in the August 2009 issue of AGD Impact , th
• Q&A: Dry Mouth
  Q: What causes dry mouth? A: Dry mouth is caused by a decrease in the amount of salvia in the mouth when the salivary glands do not work properly. The salivary glands help keep your mouth moist, which helps prevent decay and other ora
• Sealants Are Saving Grace for Dry Mouth Sufferers
  If you have dry mouth, and about one-third of the adult population does, consider asking your dentist to apply sealants to your teeth, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of general dentists dedicated to continuing denta
• A Fatal Fad? Tongue Studs Cause More Problems Than Chipped Teeth
  Wearing a tongue stud puts people at risk for chipped teeth, recessed gums and nerve damage. However, most people don't realize that getting an oral piercing also places them at risk for developing a fatal infection, such as Ludwig's angina or endocar
• A Fatal Fad? Tongue Studs Cause More Problems Than Chipped Teeth
  A Fatal Fad? Tongue Studs Cause More Problems Than Chipped Teeth Wearing a tongue stud puts people at risk for chipped teeth, recessed gums and nerve damage. However, most people don't realize that getting an oral piercing also places
• A Millennium of Dentistry: A Look Into the Past, Present and Future of Dentistry
  A Millennium of Dentistry: A Look Into the Past, Present and Future of Dentistry Oral disease has been a problem for humans since the beginning of time. Skulls of the Cro-Magnon people, who inhabited the earth 25,000 years ago, show ev
• Acupuncture May Provide Relief from Dry Mouth
  Acupuncture is allowing some patients to relieve or significantly reduce dry mouth's debilitating effects, according to a report in the May/June 2005 issue of General Dentistry , the Academy of General Dentistry's (AGD) clinical, peer-reviewed j
• An Apple a Day May Keep the Dentist Away
  Although school offers food for thought among the nation's children, school lunches and snacks are not as nutritious for their teeth, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Researchers have concluded that dietary habits o
• Are You Biting Off More Than You Can Chew?
  In our fast-paced lives, many of us may be eating in a hurry, taking giant bites of our food to get done quickly and on to the next task. Fast-food restaurants advertise giant burgers and sandwiches as a selling point, but often those super-sized delica
• Avoid Diver's Mouth Syndrome When Scuba Diving
  Before you go scuba diving, see your dentist because this sport can lead to jaw joint pain, gum tissue problems or tooth pain. All of these symptoms add up to "diver's mouth syndrome," a condition that is caused by the mo
• Avoid Dry Socket With Wisdom Tooth Extractions
  Each year, millions of Americans have their wisdom teeth removed. The vast majority of patients heal flawlessly, with little discomfort and swelling, thankful impacted or painful wisdom teeth are no longer a daily woe.
• Barry Manilow, Key to Overcoming Dental Anxiety?
  Relaxing in a comfortable chair, wrapped in an afghan and listening to Barry Manilow may not be how one envisions a dental visit. However, for fans of the pop star, this specialized care helps some patients soothe dental anxiety. Many dentists are t
• Bringing Science Fiction Closer to Reality for Dentists
  With advancements in genetic research, namely the Human Genome Project, dentistry is expected to change dramatically in the future. In fact, these advancements in genetic research include the ability to one day grow teeth, engineer salivary gland tiss
• Burning Mouth Syndrome in Middle-aged Women
  More than 1 million adults in the United States, mostly women in their postmenopausal years, are affected by a poorly understood and difficult-to-diagnose condition known as burning mouth syndrome (BMS). The chron
• Can Adults Wear Braces?
  Braces aren't just for teenagers. No matter your age, it's never too late to improve your dental health and beautify your smile. About 1 million Americans and Canadians over the age of 18 wear braces. As a result, general dentists today are more famil
• Can't Floss Regularly? Once a Day Keeps Tartar Away!
  Can't Floss Regularly? Once a Day Keeps Tartar Away! Despite recommendations and warnings from dentists about the importance of regular flossing, many people admit they still don't do it, and countless more floss only in the days and
• Check Menstrual Calendar for Tooth Extraction
  Dry socket, the most common postoperative complication from tooth extractions, delays the normal healing process and results when the newly formed blood clot in the extraction site does not form correctly or is prematurely lost. This blood clot lays th
• Children's Dental Visits: Parents, Prepare Yourselves
  Children experience many firsts: first tooth, first words, first step, first birthday and first haircut. Parents want to be prepared for every step of their child's new life experiences, including dental visits. Only parents willing to model positiv
• Coffee and Doughnuts: A Disastrous Combo for Teeth?
  You're late for work, skip breakfast and during the commute, pick up a doughnut and cup of coffee and you're on your way. This common quick-fix breakfast scenario can lengthen your time spent in the dental chair, reports the Academy of General Dentist
• Dental Erosion: Consume Pickles, Lemons and Soft Drinks in Moderation
  Frequently consuming foods with a low pH value, such as soft drinks, fruit juices, pickles, fresh fruit and yogurt can lead to irreversible dental erosion, according to a report in the January/February 2005 issue of General Dentistry , the Academy of
• Dental Light Sabers: Coming Soon?
  The word “laser” might conjure thoughts of “Star Wars,” but lasers are no longer merely the subject of science-fiction works. Lasers have permeated most fields of medicine, revolutionizing the way patients are diagnosed and treated.
• Dental Sealants: Is Your Child a Candidate?
  Dental Sealants: Is My Child a Candidate? By age 19, tooth decay affects nearly 70 percent of America's children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Left untreated, tooth decay, also kno
• Dentist Should Advise Vegetarians on Good Oral Health
  Health concerns about fat and cholesterol have prompted many people to become vegetarians, and the nutritional deficiencies that can sometimes result may reveal themselves during dental exams. Academy of General Dentistry
• Dentists Are the First Line of Defense for Elder Abuse
  With the American population living longer, seniors' oral health has become an important issue, as has the widespread problem of elder abuse. Every year more than 2.5 million older Americans may be victims of elder abuse, and in some cases dentists s
• Dentists Help Confirm Osteoporosis
  Osteoporosis, a disease that decreases bone density and weakens bones, affects 10 million people. In addition, more than one-third of females over age 65 display signs and symptoms of the disease. Most individual
• Dentists Tell Athletes Keep the Mouthguard, Take Out the Barbell
  Perhaps more than most people, athletes view their bodies as their temples. Seeking to emulate their professional heroes, a growing number of high school and younger athletes are adorning those temples through oral piercings.
• Dentists Tell Athletes Keep the Mouthguard, Take Out the Barbell
  Perhaps more than most people, athletes view their bodies as their temples. Seeking to emulate their professional heroes, a growing number of high school and younger athletes are adorning those temples through oral piercings.
• Dentists Tell Athletes Keep the Mouthguard, Take Out the Barbell
  Dentists Tell Athletes Keep the Mouthguard, Take Out the Barbell Perhaps more than most people, athletes view their bodies as their temples. Seeking to emulate their professional heroes, a growing number of high school and younger athle
• Do You Have Traveler's Breath?
  In addition to racking up frequent flyer miles, some travelers may also experience bad breath, and possibly a condition known as "tooth squeeze," while flying the friendly skies. Bad breath while traveling happens when t
• Does a Smaller Waist Mean Smelly Breath?
  Many people wanting to slim down are jumping on the low-carbohydrate diet trend in an attempt to lose weight. However, as dieters shed pounds, many are saying goodbye to carbs and hello to halitosis. Low-carb diets work by
• Don't Avoid the Dentist Because You Drool
  The reason your mouth waters over a juicy steak and the reason babies drool when they are teething are the same reasons you drool in the dental chair. Salivary flow increases while you're sitting in the dental chair because dental procedures stimula
• Don't Lose Sleep Because You Snore
  Sleep disorders don't just affect marriages, they harm the quality of a good night's rest and can cause some serious health risks. Now some dentists are playing a key role in the treatment of certain sleep disorders, including snoring and sleep apnea,
• Early Dental Visits May Help Prevent Problems Down the Road
  Many parents may not know their 1-year-olds are ready for their first dental checkup, but more and more dentists agree that the earlier children visit the dentist, the better. The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and the Ameri
• Emotional Stress Could Cause Periodontal Disease
  Emotional woes may place a strain on more than just your heart. According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), emotional anxiety could affect your dental health. "There's definitely a link between stress and dental
• Epilepsy, Seizure Meds Have Oral Health Implications
  Three million Americans suffer from epilepsy, a central nervous system disorder resulting in recurrent seizures, which can be frightening and potentially dangerous. Additionally, seizures may have implications for oral health and dental care, accordin
• Equilibration May Lessen TMD Pain
  If you are one of more than 10 million Americans who suffer from temporomandibular disorder (TMD), a condition that causes face, jaw and neck pain, relief may be found in a dental procedure called equilibration, according to Jerry Butler, DDS, FAGD. Equ
• Fast-paced Lifestyle Eroding Teens' Teeth
  Fast-paced Lifestyle Eroding Teens' Teeth As quick meals in the form of "nutrition" bars and carbonated beverages help keep teens alert and on schedule between school, extracurricular activities and part-time jobs, today's fast-paced lif
• Female Smokers Use Smoking as Diet?
  More women and young girls are smoking now, possibly due to the desire to try to control their weight. Few female smokers realize, however, that this addictive habit and the problems affiliated with it can be far worse for females than their male coun
• Fender-benders: Source of TMD?
  Memories of that recent fender-bender just won't go away and, as if car repairs and pending litigation weren't enough, now you're noticing persistent jaw pain, a symptom of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). The stress of the entire experience cou
• First Comes TMD, Then Fibromyalgia?
  Getting to the root of orofacial pain, a condition affecting millions of Americans, can be frustrating for patients and a daunting task for physicians and dentists. Symptoms caused by temporomandibular disorders (TMD), a variety of conditions affecting
• Forensic Dentistry: The Key to Unlocking Many Mysteries
  Forensic dentistry is one of the most valuable investigative tools available today to link crime suspects with their victims. With several high-profile missing persons cases in the news today, forensic dentistry is gaining importance and attention as
• Frequent Headaches? Can't Sleep? Check Your Bite
  The average person swallows 2,000 times per day, causing the upper and lower teeth to come together and push against the skull. People who have a poorly aligned bite or missing teeth can have related health problems, such as frequent headaches or sl
• Gingivitis vs. Gum Disease: What's the Difference?
  Eighty percent of American adults have some form of periodontal (gum) disease, but the beginning symptoms are usually painless, so many who are at risk do not recognize the signs and stages, according to a report in the September/October 2003 issue
• Gum Disease and Cardiovascular Health
  Researchers are finding possible links between periodontal (gum) infections and other diseases throughout the body. Current studies suggest that there may be a link between gum disease and cardiovascular disease. In fact, some research suggests that g
• Have a Heart-to-heart Chat Before Dental Visits
  Congestive heart failure (CHF), a condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to the body's organs, affects more than 3 million people in the United States, with approximately 400,000 new cases each year. Pe
• Have a Heart-to-heart Chat Before Dental Visits
  Congestive heart failure (CHF), a condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to the body's organs, affects more than 3 million people in the United States, with approximately 400,000 new cases each year. People
• Have Your Teeth Had Their Picture Taken Lately?
  The latest technology in dentistry is giving patients an inside look at their teeth and a better image and understanding of the state of their dental health. The intraoral camera, now used by some dentists, allows patient
• Headaches and Jaw Pain? Check Your Posture!
  If you experience frequent headaches and pain in your lower jaw, check your posture and consult your dentist about temporomandibular disorder (TMD), recommends the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of general dentists dedicated to cont
• Headaches? Can't Sleep? Check Your Bite
  The average person swallows 2,000 times per day, causing the upper and lower teeth to come together and push against the skull. People who have a poorly aligned bite or missing teeth can have related health problems, such as frequent headaches or sleep
• High-Sugar Infancy Can Mean Adult Sugar Dependency
  Dental habits start forming at about 4 months of age, or at about the time when a baby switches from breast milk or infant formula to other foods, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of general dentists dedicated to continu
• How Can Gum Disease Affect My Cardiovascular Health?
  Researchers are finding possible links between periodontal (gum) infections and other diseases throughout the body. Current studies suggest that there may be a link between gum disease and cardiovascular disease. In fact, some research suggests that
• How Can I Take Care of My Teeth as I Age?
  Proper oral care can keep you smiling well into retirement. Brushing at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle brush are as important as ever. Flossing can help you save your teeth by removing plaque between teeth and below th
• How Do Herbal Medications Differ from Conventional Drugs?
  Although many of the prescription and over-the-counter drugs used today are derived from plants, there is a big difference between the two. Conventional drugs, which must be approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are based on an a
• How Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health?
  It is estimated that up to 20 million people have diabetes, but only two-thirds of these individuals are diagnosed. Studies have shown that diabetics are more susceptible to the development of oral infections and periodontal (gum) disease than those
• How Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health?
  It is estimated that up to 20 million people have diabetes, but only two-thirds of these individuals are diagnosed. Studies have shown that diabetics are more susceptible to the development of oral infections and periodontal (gum) disease than those
• How Does Pregnancy Affect My Oral Health?
  It's a myth that calcium is lost from a mother's teeth and "one tooth is lost with every pregnancy." But you may experience some changes in your oral health during pregnancy. The primary changes are due to a surge in hormones – particularly an increa
• How Does Pregnancy Affect My Oral Health?
  It's a myth that calcium is lost from a mother's teeth and "one tooth is lost with every pregnancy." But you may experience some changes in your oral health during pregnancy. The primary changes are due to a surge in hormones – particularly an in
• How Does What I Eat Affect My Oral Health?
  You may be able to prevent two of the most common diseases of modern civilization, tooth decay (caries) and periodontal (gum) disease, simply by improving your diet. Decay results when the teeth and other hard tissues of the mouth are destroyed by ac
• How Many Teeth Are in That Cigarette Pack?
  A one-pack-a-day smoking habit can cost you the loss of at least two teeth every 10 years, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Smokers are about twice as likely to lose their teeth than non-smokers, accordi
• How to Keep Your Teeth for a Lifetime
  It's a common myth that senior citizens are destined to lose their teeth, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). There is no reason seniors cannot keep their teeth for a lifetime, since tooth loss is simply the result of an oral disease – not
• How Your Dentist Can Detect an Eating Disorder
  With as many as 35 million men and women suffering from eating disorders in the United States, more dentists are becoming the first line of defense when it comes to spotting eating disorders in patients, according to the May 2005 issue of AGD Impa
• Importance of Oral Health to Overall Health
  Oral health means more than just an attractive smile. Poor oral health and untreated oral diseases and conditions can have a significant impact on quality of life. And in many cases, the condition of the mouth mirrors the condition of the body as a wh
• Is it Wise to Remove Them?
  Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to grow in the back of the mouth. Common misunderstandings surround their name origin, removal reasons and pain sources, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization
• Leisurely Cigar Puffs Have Hidden Risks
  Viewed as a glamorous luxury by many men and women, cigars are promoted by everyone from sports superstars to top movie stars to upscale clothing stores and clubs. U.S. consumers lit up 5.1 billion cigars in 2005, and sales continue to rise. As cigar
• Living in a Sugar Culture
  Naturally occurring bacteria in the mouth devour sugar, creating acids that attack tooth enamel. This can lead to decay, as well as a host of other problems, including gingivitis. Living in a culture that moves as quickly
• Making the Most of Your Dental Visit
  With today's daily grind getting busier and busier, it's hard to get an extra minute. So trying to get a doctor's appointment in between work and play can be difficult – you have to make every moment count. "Your dentist is a gr
• Men: Looking for a Better Job? Start by Visiting the Dentist
  Men: Looking for a Better Job? Start by Visiting the Dentist An online poll of 289 general dentists and consumers confirms the traditional stereotype that men are less likely to visit the dentist than their female counterparts, accordin
• Menstruation, Pregnancy, Menopause and Teeth
  With all the changes taking place in a woman's body during stages like puberty, pregnancy, lactation, menstruation and menopause, women can expect some oral health changes as well. Elevated or decreased levels of sex hormones can also jump start oral
• Mouthguards Fight ''Weekend Warrior'' Syndrome
  Most people, kids included, have experienced the "weekend warrior" syndrome, where you think your body is invincible to injury and that you do not need protective gear such as helmets for your head and pads for your knees, shins and elbows. In particu
• Mouthguards Fight ''Weekend Warrior'' Syndrome
  Most people, kids included, have experienced the "weekend warrior" syndrome, where you think your body is invincible to injury and that you do not need protective gear such as helmets for your head and pads for your knees, shins and elbows. In particu
• New Technology in the Dental Office
  Dentistry has come a long way in making patient checkups more comfortable. With today's technology, dentists are better equipped to detect and treat tooth decay and perform other procedures with maximum comfort. You might find that your dentist has ad
• Nursing Home Oral Health Care
  Elderly people who live in nursing homes are at greater risk for oral health problems compared to elderly people who live independently, according to a study published in the July/August 2002 issue of General Dentistry , the clinical, peer-reviewe
• Oral Cancer Screening
  The next time you visit your dentist, ask about your oral cancer screening – most people receive one during their regular dental checkup but do not realize it. The dentist checks about 10 places inside and around the mout
• Oral Health Glossary
  Oral Health Glossary air abrasion: a method of tooth-structure removal considered to be an effective alternative to the standard dental drill amalgam: a mixture of mercury, silver, tin and copper used t
• Oral Reactions to Medication Can Include Black Tongue
  Dentists are often the first to diagnose and treat oral reactions, especially since many reactions occur with any medications used in excess, or in combinations with other drugs, such as vitamins and herbs, according to a report in the March/April 200
• Orthodontics Align Crooked Teeth and Boost Self- esteem
  Orthodontics are often necessary to help improve the stability, function and health of an individual’s teeth; otherwise, many people would be at higher risk for gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss because of improper teeth positioning in their mou
• Playgrounds: Site of Tooth Traumas?
  School's out and summer is here, attracting swarms of children to flock to outdoor activities. Yet, parents may not realize how hidden dangers of certain summer activities can also affect teeth. "In the summer, accident
• Rolls Royce of Mouthguard Line Provides Maximum Injury Protection
  As students head back to school this fall, many will end up as part of the 15 million dental injuries and 5 million cases of traumatically lost teeth that occur every year, according to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation (NYSSF).
• Rolls Royce of Mouthguard Line Provides Maximum Injury Protection
  As students head back to school this fall, many will end up as part of the 15 million dental injuries and 5 million cases of traumatically lost teeth that occur every year, according to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation (NYSSF).
• Schools’ Long-term Soda Deals Kick Kids in the Teeth
  Although federal regulations prohibit the sale of soft drinks to students during lunch hours in most schools, soft drink machines often line the hallways, which means the goods are accessible to students all day long. Some students are merely thirsty,
• Sensitive Teeth? Check Your Toothpaste
  Some patients may experience tooth sensitivity when using tartar-control toothpaste, but the good news is that when they stop using the toothpaste, the sensitivity goes away. "Dentists and hygienists often recommend that
• Should I Floss?
  Yes. Floss removes plaque and debris that sticks to teeth and gums in between teeth, polishes tooth surfaces, and controls bad breath. Plaque is a sticky layer of material containing bacteria that accumulates on teeth, including places where toothb
• Snap, Crackle, Pop: Is That Your Jaw?
  Clicking or popping could mean trouble, that is if it comes from your jaw. Joint sound is one of the most recognized signs of temporomandibular disorders, commonly referred to as TMD. While not all jaw sounds necessarily point to TMD, it could be an ea
• So You Want to Pierce Your Tongue?
  So You Want to Pierce Your Tongue? Oral piercing can cause pain, swelling, infection, drooling, taste loss, scarring, chipped teeth and tooth loss. Most dentists discourage oral piercing because of these risks. Regulation
• So You Want to Pierce Your Tongue?
  Oral piercing can cause pain, swelling, infection, drooling, taste loss, scarring, chipped teeth and tooth loss. Most dentists discourage oral piercing because of these risks. Regulations vary in each state, so be careful if you d
• Soda Attack: Soft Drinks, Especially Non-colas and Iced Tea, Hurt Hard Enamel
  As summer temperatures rise so will people's thirst. Unfortunately, many people will grab a pop or iced tea instead of water. It isn't just cola's empty calories – about 150 per 12-ounce can – you should worry about. Many of these beverages harm enam
• Spit Tobacco
  Spit tobacco affects your dental health as well as the rest of your body. If you use spit (smokeless) tobacco and have thought about quitting, your dentist can help. Spit tobacco includes snuff, a fine
• Spit Tobacco Users More Prevalent in the South
  Due to increased exposure, spit tobacco users in the South are more likely to pack in cavities and oral cancer than their Northern and Western neighbors, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of general dentists dedicated to
• Start the School Year Off With a Smile
  Start the School Year Off With a Smile Every child wants to look their best as they head back to school this fall. Parents help by scheduling haircuts and buying new outfits, but most overlook the simple steps to helping their child m
• Stress and Your Teeth
  Dentists routinely see oral symptoms of stress, including orofacial pain, cold sores and temporomandibular disorders (TMD). "At the first sign of oral pain or infection, it's important to see your dentist," says
• Stressed Out? Your Dentist Can Tell!
  Don't try hiding the fact that you're emotionally stressed over a negative life event, because your dentist can most likely tell something's wrong by just looking in your mouth, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of genera
• Students: Hitting the Books May Hurt Your Teeth
  Students: Hitting the Books May Hurt Your Teeth Behavior changes induced by academic stress may cause gum inflammation, temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms and bruxism for some college students. During exam weeks, stude
• Swimmers Risk Stained Smiles, Chipped Teeth
  Competitive swimmers may be at risk for developing yellowish-brown or dark-brown stains on their teeth, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of general dentists dedicated to continuing dental education.
• Taking Herbal Supplements? Tell Your Dentist
  Alternative medicine isn't so alternative anymore. Once dismissed as a fad or fringe movement, alternative medicine has become an increasingly popular component of mainstream health care, including dentistry. But patients
• Talk to Your Dentist About Sex
  Among the more dangerous myths floating around these days is that oral sex is a disease-free alternative to intercourse. The fact is, not only can oral-genital contact lead to a sexually transmitted disease (STD), it can – depending on the disease – b
• Tax-season Stressors Can Aggravate TMD
  Are you worried about getting your taxes done this year? Have too many things on your "to-do" list and not enough time to do it? Are you planning a move? All of these situations cause stress, which could lead to tooth grinding or clenching, and eventua
• Teens: Want a Brighter Smile? Visit the Dentist, not the Shopping Mall
  Teens: Want a Brighter Smile? Visit the Dentist, not the Shopping Mall Although teeth whitening may be one of the safest, non-invasive and cost-efficient ways for teens to immediately boost their appearance, paren
• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder
  Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) describes a variety of conditions that affect jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints and nerves associated with chronic facial pain. Symptoms may occur on one or both sides of the face, head or jaw, or develop afte
• The History of Dental Advances
  The History of Dental Advances Many of the most common dental tools were used as early as the Stone Age. Thankfully, technology and continuing education have made going to the dentist a much more pleasant – and painless – experience. H
• There's More to Dentistry Than Meets the Tooth
  Continuing research shows that health issues as varied as headaches and breathing problems may be related to abnormal alignments of the bones of the face and jaw. The good news is, more general dentists are learning how to dete
• To Pierce or not to Pierce
  Have you thought about chipped teeth, drooling, gum damage, nerve damage, taste loss, tooth loss or infection? The problems that can arise from an oral piercing might surprise you. Fractured teeth are a common problem for people wi
• To Pierce or not to Pierce
  To Pierce or not to Pierce Have you thought about chipped teeth, drooling, gum damage, nerve damage, taste loss, tooth loss or infection? The problems that can arise from an oral piercing might surprise you. Fractured teet
• Under 30? Check for Oral Cancer
  In the past decade, the dental profession has seen a considerable increase in the number of oral cancer patients under age 30 who have no identifiable risk factors of contracting the disease, such as tobacco or alcohol use, according to an article in
• Using Floss Once a Day Helps Fight Decay
  Using Floss Once a Day Helps Fight Decay Some people loop. Some people spool. Others simply refuse. The verdict is in: Flossing is one of the best things you can ever do to take care of your teeth. “Flossing every 24 ho
• Vitamin C Speeds Recovery from Oral Surgery Wounds
  Getting plenty of vitamin C is one way oral surgery patients can ensure timely recovery. Patients who neglect nutrition might be tacking extra days onto their recovery time, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Deficien
• Warning Signs in the Mouth Can Save Lives
  Heart disease will claim more than half a million lives this year. Most adults know heart disease is the number-one killer of Americans, however a consumer survey reveals 60 percent don't know that a sore or painful jaw is one warning sign that may in
• Wear Sunglasses? You May Have Sensitive Teeth
  If you avoid bright light, loud noises, heavy perfumes, and itchy clothing, you also may find that you avoid hot and cold foods because you have sensitive teeth. A study that appears in the November/December 2002
• What Are Veneers?
  Veneers are ultra-thin shells of ceramic (porcelain) or a composite resin material, which are bonded to the front of teeth. This procedure requires little or no anesthesia and can be the ideal choice for improving the appearance of the front teeth.
• What Are Wisdom Teeth?
  Wisdom teeth are the third molars. Normally people have three permanent molars that develop in each quadrant of the mouth; upper, lower, right and left. The first molars usually grow into the mouth at around six years of age. The second molars grow in
• What Causes a Toothache?
  While decay often is cited as the primary cause of a toothache, it's important for you to have a complete oral examination to determine the cause. Other dental causes of a toothache include: infection, gum disease, grinding teeth (bruxism), tooth t
• What Causes a Toothache?
  While decay often is cited as the primary cause of a toothache, it's important for you to have a complete oral examination to determine the cause. Other dental causes of a toothache include: infection, gum disease, grinding teeth (bruxism), tooth tra
• What Foods Cause Tooth Decay in Children?
  Many different types of food can cause tooth decay in children, not just candy. Foods that are high in carbohydrates, as well as some fruits, juices and sodas, peanut butter, crackers and potato chips are culprits. Factors that cause tooth decay incl
• What is a Composite Resin (White Filling)?
  What is a Composite Resin (White Filling)? A composite filling is a tooth-colored plastic and glass mixture used to restore decayed teeth. Composites are also used for cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the
• What is a Dental Emergency?
  What is a Dental Emergency? Injuries to the mouth may include teeth that are knocked out (avulsed), forced out of position and loosened (extruded) or fractured. In addition, lips, gums or cheeks are often cut. Oral in
• What Is a Dental Implant?
  A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically anchored into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge in place. The benefit of using implants is that they don't rely on neighboring teeth for support and they are permanent and
• What Is a Denture?
  A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and the tissues connected to those teeth. It is made of acrylic plastic and sometimes porcelain and metal materials. A denture closely resembles natural gum tissue and teeth. Comp
• What Is a Mouthguard?
  A mouthguard is a flexible appliance that is worn in athletic and recreational activities to protect teeth from trauma. The dental profession unanimously supports the use of mouthguards in a variety of sports activities. Why sho
• What Is a Mouthguard?
  A mouthguard is a flexible appliance that is worn in athletic and recreational activities to protect teeth from trauma. The dental profession unanimously supports the use of mouthguards in a variety of sports activities.
• What Is a Root Canal?
  What Is a Root Canal? Underneath your tooth’s outer enamel and within the dentin is an area of soft tissue called the pulp tissue. While a tooth’s pulp tissue does contain nerve fibers, it is also composed of arterie
• What Is a Sealant?
  What Is a Sealant? A dental sealant is a thin plastic film painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth to prevent cavities. How effective are sealants? Studies hav
• What is Dental Amalgam (Silver Filling)?
  What is Dental Amalgam (Silver Fillings)? Most people recognize dental amalgams as silver fillings. Dental amalgam is a mixture of mercury, silver, tin and copper. Mercury, which makes up about 50 percent of the compo
• What Is Dry Mouth?
  Dry mouth (also called xerostomia) is caused by a decrease in the amount of saliva in the mouth when the salivary glands do not work properly. The salivary glands help keep your mouth moist, which helps prevent tooth decay and other oral health pro
• What Is Fluoride?
  Fluoride is a compound of the element fluorine, which is found universally throughout nature in water, soil, air and food. Existing abundantly in living tissue as an ion, fluoride is absorbed easily into tooth enamel, especially in children's growin
• What Is Gum Disease?
  Gum disease, or periodontal disease is a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue. It is the major cause of about 70 percent of adult tooth loss, affecting three out of four persons at some point in their life. Period
• What Is Halitosis?
  More than 80 million people suffer from chronic halitosis, or bad breath. In most cases it originates from the gums and tongue. The odor is caused by wastes from bacteria in the mouth, the decay of food particles, other debris in your mouth and poor
• What Is Infection Control?
  Infection control is a set of recommended safety precautions that dentists implement to protect their patients and staff in the office. Strict infection control is required to prevent the spread of disease, since many dental procedures involve direct
• What Is Infection Control?
  Infection control is a set of recommended safety precautions that dentists implement to protect their patients and staff in the office. Strict infection control is required to prevent the spread of disease, since many dental procedures involve dire
• What is Latex Allergy?
  Latex is a natural rubber harvested from trees and can be found in more than 40,000 consumer products, from household items to toys. Examples of these items include baby-bottle nipples, teething rings and pacifiers, balloons, some bandages, condoms,
• What Is Oral Cancer?
  Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers, with roughly 35,000 new cases reported annually in the United States. The vast majority of oral cancers occur in people older than 50 years, with men being twice as likely as women to develop the disease.
• What is Orofacial Pain?
  Orofacial pain includes a number of clinical problems involving the chewing (masticatory) muscles or temporomandibular joint. Problems can include temporomandibular joint discomfort; muscle spasms in the head, neck and jaw; migraines, cluster or fr
• What is Orofacial Pain?
  Orofacial pain includes a number of clinical problems involving the chewing (masticatory) muscles or temporomandibular joint. Problems can include temporomandibular joint discomfort; muscle spasms in the head, neck and jaw; migraines, cluster or freque
• What Is Sleep Apnea?
  Sleep apnea is a serious, potentially life-threatening sleep disorder. It affects approximately 18 million Americans. It owes its name to the Greek word apnea , meaning “want of breath” and refers to episodes in which a person stops breathing for
• What Should I Do if I Chip a Tooth?
  What Should I Do if I Chip a Tooth? If a tooth is chipped, find the chip, save it and visit your dentist immediately. Put the chip in a plastic baggie, and keep the chip moist by adding a
• Wheezy? Brush Up and Bring Your Inhaler
  Approximately 20 million Americans have asthma. Today, dentists see more asthmatic patients taking medication, leading to increased cavities, bad breath and gum problems, and many forgetting to bring inhalers to dental visits, causing more in-office a
• Why Am I Anxious in the Dental Office?
  People are anxious about going to the dentist for different reasons, including worrying about the effectiveness of localized anesthetic and feeling like the dentist is rushed or is neglecting your concerns. Other factors include anticipation of pain,
• Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?
  Tooth sensitivity is caused by the movement of fluid within tiny tubes located in the dentin (the layer of tissue found beneath the hard enamel that contains the inner pulp), which results in nerve irritation. When the hard enamel is worn down or gu
• Why Do I Need to Share My Medical History with My Dentist?
  During your first dental visit, your dentist will ask for a thorough medical history, which typically is included on a patient registration. This section may include questions about lifestyle (such as smoking or involvement in high-risk sports) and
• Why Do I Need X-Rays?
  Radiographic, or X-ray, examinations provide your dentist with an important tool that shows the condition of your teeth, its roots, jaw placement and the overall composition of your facial bones. X-rays can help your dentist determine the presence
• Why Do I Snore?
  Medical experts estimate that more than 30 million American adults snore on a regular basis. Snoring or gasping sounds during sleep are caused by the vibration of relaxed, floppy tissues that line the upper airway (or throat). When you sleep, muscle
• Why Do People Get Braces?
  A dentist usually recommends braces to improve a patient's "orofacial" appearance. Through orthodontic treatment, problems like crooked or crowded teeth, overbites or underbites, incorrect jaw position and disorders of the jaw joints are corrected. I
• Why Does My Dentist Prescribe Medication?
  Your dentist prescribes medications for many reasons. While some drugs are formulated to fight oral diseases, others are used to prevent infections after surgical procedures such as tooth extractions and gum surgery. Certain drugs are used prior to d
• Why is Oral Health Important for Men?
  Why is Oral Health Important for Men? Men are less likely than women to take care of their physical health and, according to surveys and studies, their oral health is equally ignored. Good oral health recently has been linked with lon
• Why Is Oral Health Important for Women?
  Why is Oral Health Important for Women? Women's oral health depends on their different stages of life. For many women, these changes are directly related to surges in sex-hormone levels, such as in puberty, menstr
• Why Swimming Pool Rules Protect Pearly Whites
  Following the rules and remembering dental first aid steps can help save your teeth the next time you dive into a swimming pool. During the summer, swimming pool accidents are the number-one cause of dental emergencies at the of
• Women Need to be ''On Guard'' When it Comes to Athletics
  Before you or your daughter take the field to participate in sports, make sure your protective gear includes a mouthguard. Contact sports such as football and hockey are usually associated with orofacial injuries and require prote
• Women Need to Be ''On Guard'' When it Comes to Athletics
  Before you or your daughter take the field to participate in sports, make sure your protective gear includes a mouthguard. Contact sports such as football and hockey are usually associated with orofacial injuries and require prote
• You, and Your Mouth, Are What You Eat
  Your mouth can say a lot about what you're eating, and your dentist may be the first person to spot potential nutritional imbalances, according to a study in the November/December 2001 issue of General Dentistry , the clinical, peer-reviewed journal
• Your Posture May Be the Cause of Jaw Pain
  If you experience frequent headaches and pain in your lower jaw, check your posture and consult your dentist about temporomandibular disorder (TMD), recommends the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of general dentists dedicated to
• Acupuncture May Provide Relief From Dry Mouth
  Acupuncture is allowing some patients to relieve or significantly reduce dry mouth's debilitating effects, according to a report in the May/June 2005 issue of General Dentistry , the Academy of General Dentistry's (AGD) clinical, peer-reviewed jou
• Aloe Vera Helps Relieve Mouth Sores
  You’re dressing for a special event when a familiar tingling sensation crosses your lips. One quick look in the mirror confirms an unsightly and irritating cold sore. One remedy may be the aloe vera plant, which has been used to heal skin for more
• Aloe Vera May Help Relieve Mouth Sores
  You’re dressing for a special event when a familiar tingling sensation crosses your lips. One quick look in the mirror confirms an unsightly and irritating cold sore. One remedy may be the aloe vera plant, which has been used to heal skin for more
• Americans Need to ''Brush Up'' at the Office
  Healthy teeth affect nearly every aspect of our lives – even our professional image. However, according to a survey released by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and Oral-B Laboratories, many Americans are neglecting to take care of their smile
• Anxiety Contributes to Oral Health Problems
  Anxiety disorders, which include phobias, panic attacks, generalized anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), are serious conditions with oral health implications, according to a report published in the November/December 2003 issue of G
• Anxiety, Depression Lead to Burning Mouth Syndrome
  Burning mouth syndrome (BMS), a painful disorder affecting mostly women, is a constant and aggravating source of discomfort for more than 1 million adults. Patients experience a burning sensation in their mouth, palate, lips and tongue, as well as
• Burning Mouth Syndrome in Middle-aged Women
  More than 1 million adults in the United States, mostly women in their postmenopausal years, are affected by a poorly understood and difficult-to-diagnose condition known as burning mouth syndrome (BMS). The chronic disor
• Can Adults Wear Braces?
  Braces aren't just for teenagers. No matter your age, it's never too late to improve your dental health and beautify your smile. About 1 million Americans and Canadians over the age of 18 wear braces. As a result, general dentists today are more fa
• Can Music Help Overcome Dental Anxiety?
  Relaxing in a comfortable chair, wrapped in an afghan and listening to Barry Manilow may not be how one envisions a dental visit. However, for fans of the pop star, this specialized care helps some patients soothe dental anxiety. Many dentists are t
• Cancer Therapy Causes Oral Complications
  More than 1 million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in the upcoming year, and a large percentage will develop serious oral complications as the result of their treatment. Although cancer therapies such as radiation, chemothe
• Canker Sore or Cold Sore?
  In or out? That's the first question to ask when you're trying to figure out whether you have a canker sore or a cold sore. If it's inside your mouth, it's most likely a canker sore; outside, probably a cold sore. The two may seem s
• Cavity Prevention Tips for Preschoolers
  Providing proper care and oral hygiene during preschool years can mean a lifetime of good oral health, according to an article in the January/February 2005 issue of General Dentistry , the clinical, peer-reviewed journal of the Academy of General Den
• Cavity Prevention Tips for Preschoolers
  Cavity Prevention Tips for Preschoolers Providing proper care and oral hygiene during preschool years can mean a lifetime of good oral health, according to an article in the January/February 2005 issue of General Dentistry , the clinic
• Children's Dental Visits: Parents, Prepare Yourselves
  Children's Dental Visits: Parents, Prepare Yourselves Children experience many firsts: first tooth, first words, first step, first birthday and first haircut. Parents want to be prepared for every step of their child's new life experience
• Coffee and Doughnuts: A Disastrous Combo for Teeth?
  You're late for work, skip breakfast and during the commute, pick up a doughnut and cup of coffee and you're on your way. This common quick-fix breakfast scenario can lengthen your time spent in the dental chair, reports the Academy of General Dentist
• Consume Pickles, Lemons and Soda in Moderation
  Frequently consuming foods with a low pH value, such as soft drinks, fruit juices, pickles, fresh fruit and yogurt can lead to irreversible dental erosion, according to a report in the January/February 2005 issue of General Dentistry , the Academy o
• Crown Crazes: Are You a Candidate?
  Crown Crazes: Are You a Candidate? Yellow teeth, gum disease and tooth loss may conjure up images of aging, yet many people are unaware that as they age, they are more likely to develop crown crazes – unsightly hairlin
• Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome Destroys Teeth
  Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome: Recurring and Unexplained Episodes Destroy Teeth Parents face many concerns when it comes to protecting their children. However, they may not be aware of a particular disorder that is more preval
• Dental Sealants: Is My Child a Candidate?
  Dental Sealants: Is My Child a Candidate? By age 19, tooth decay affects nearly 70 percent of America's children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Left untreated, tooth decay, also k
• Dental Techniques Enhance Smile and Increase Confidence
  What are the characteristics of an attractive smile? While not every person is born with a perfect smile, qualities such as straightness, cleanliness or whiteness of teeth may come to mind. Thanks to developments in the field of cosmetic dentistry,
• Diet Soda Drinkers, Beware!
  Drinking carbonated soft drinks regularly can contribute to the erosion of tooth enamel surfaces. Soft drinks, which contain sticky sugars that break down into acids, adhere easily to tooth surfaces. These acids can soften the teeth and p
• Don't Rush the Brush, Brush to the Beat!
  Don't Rush the Brush, Brush to the Beat! Despite the variety and advancements in toothbrushes today, people don't brush long enough to get the best results, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). "Since many
• Don't Rush, Just Brush to the Beat!
  Despite the variety and advancements in toothbrushes today, people don't brush long enough to get the best results, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). "Since many people brush during the morning or at nigh
• Don't Try This at Home! Over-the-counter Dental Instruments May Do More Harm Than Good
  Don't Try This at Home! Over-the-counter Dental Instruments May Do More Harm Than Good As more oral health product manufacturers introduce dental instruments to the consumer market, more patients are seeking treatment as a result of mis
• Early Dental Visits May Help Prevent Problems Down the Road
  Early Dental Visits May Help Prevent Problems Down the Road Many parents may not know their 1-year-olds are ready for their first dental checkup, but more and more dentists agree that the earlier children visit the dentist, t
• Gum Chewers Have Reason to Smile About Xylitol
  In the eighties, artificial sweeteners in blue and pink packets, diet soda and sugar-free gum set the standard as "healthy" alternatives to their sugar-laden parent products. Today, there's another sweetener called xylitol touting sweet-as-sugar taste
• Herbal Medications vs. Conventional Drugs
  Although many of the prescription and over-the-counter drugs used today are derived from plants, there is a big difference between the two. Conventional drugs, which must be approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are based on an
• How Can I Brighten My Smile?
  Your wedding is coming up, and you want your smile to be its brightest. Or maybe you have an important speaking engagement. Whatever the reason, tooth bleaching isn't just for movie stars, and it isn't just for one day. Many people have had their te
• How Do I Care for My Child's Baby Teeth?
  How Do I Care for My Child’s Baby Teeth? Though you lose them early in life, your primary teeth, also called baby teeth, are essential in the development and placement of your permanent teeth. Primary teeth maintain the spaces where perm
• How Do I Choose and Use a Toothbrush?
  Angled heads, raised bristles, oscillating tufts and handles that change colors with use: you name it, toothbrushes come in all shapes, colors and sizes, promising to perform better than the rest. But no body of scientific evidence exists yet to sh
• How Do I Choose and Use a Toothbrush?
  How Do I Choose and Use a Toothbrush? Angled heads, raised bristles, oscillating tufts and handles that change colors with use: you name it, toothbrushes come in all shapes, colors and sizes, promising to perform bette
• How Long Should I Brush?
  How Long Should I Brush? When it comes to brushing your teeth, you may think that is one area where you don't need help. But most people are only brushing one-third of the suggested time. Check this out:: The average p
• How Long Should I Brush?
  When it comes to brushing your teeth, you may think that is one area where you don't need help. But most people are only brushing one-third of the suggested time. The average person brushes:
• How to Find a Kid-friendly Dentist
  How to Find a Kid-friendly Dentist Although more parents know about the importance of age-1 dental visits, many parents may still wonder about what kind of dentist can provide care for their child. According to Aca
• How to Find a Kid-friendly Dentist
  How to Find a Kid-friendly Dentist Although more parents know about the importance of age-1 dental visits, many parents may still wonder about what kind of dentist can provide care for their child. According
• Is My Child at Risk for Early Childhood Tooth Decay?
  Is My Child at Risk for Early Childhood Tooth Decay? The average healthy adult visits the dentist twice a year. The average healthy 2-year-old has never been to the dentist. By kindergarten, 25 percent of children have never seen a d
• Is My Child at Risk for Early Childhood Tooth Decay?
  The average healthy adult visits the dentist twice a year. The average healthy 2-year-old has never been to the dentist. By kindergarten, 25 percent of children have never seen a dentist, yet dental decay is the single most common chronic childhood
• Is Your Family Sharing Too Much?
  You wouldn't think of sharing your toothbrush. Not even with a family member. But it takes more than sole proprietorship to avoid partnering infection. Studies show that toothbrushes can become heavily contaminated wit
• Is Your Family Sharing too Much?
  Is Your Family Sharing too Much? You wouldn't think of sharing your toothbrush. Not even with a family member. But it takes more than sole proprietorship to avoid partnering infection. Studies show that toothbrushes c
• Living in a Sugar Culture
  Naturally occurring bacteria in the mouth devour sugar, creating acids that attack tooth enamel. This can lead to decay, as well as a host of other problems, including gingivitis. Living in a culture that moves as quickly as ours, it's ea
• Mouth Sores: Caused By Student Stress?
  Students have a high prevalence of canker sores or cold sores, yet the sores seem to appear less frequently after graduation, when stress levels are lower, according to a report in the November/December 2003 issue of General Dentistry , the Academy
• Nail-biting Can Lead to Bruxism
  People who bite their fingernails when stressed, chew on a pencil if nervous or clench their jaw during sports competitions could be at greater risk for bruxism, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Bruxism technically
• Need a Dentist? Let Us Point the Way
  Need a Dentist? Let Us Point the Way Seeing a dentist twice a year is the best way to ensure good oral health, but many people put off these important health care visits. Many people relocate at least once in their lives, and
• Oral Cancer Screenings & Your Dental Visit
  The next time you visit your dentist, ask about your oral cancer screening – most people receive one during their regular dental checkup but do not realize it. The dentist checks about 10 places inside and around the mouth, looking for lumps or irr
• Pacifiers Have Negative and Positive Effects
  Pacifiers Have Negative and Positive Effects It’s one of the hardest habits to break and can require a great deal of persuasion: Parents often struggle with weaning their child off of a pacifier. There is much debate
• Prevent Oral Health Problems: Visit a Dentist Twice a Year
  Prevent Oral Health Problems: Visit a Dentist Twice a Year Although twice-a-year dental visits are the key ingredient to maintaining good oral health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports less than
• Protect Your Child's Teeth from Harm on Halloween
  More than 90 percent of children go trick or treating and return home with bags full of sugary candy that can turn anyone's mouth into a nightmare. By taking a few preventive steps, however, children can enjoy Halloween without harming their teeth.
• Saved by a Straw? Sipping Soda Reduces Decay Risk
  Americans drink more than 575 soft drinks on average every year – about one and a half cans a day for everyone in the United States. Drinking these beverages places those who may not follow proper oral hygiene techniques at a higher risk for cavities
• Schools’ Long-term Soda Deals Kick Kids in the Teeth
  Although federal regulations prohibit the sale of soft drinks to students during lunch hours in most schools, soft drink machines often line the hallways, which means the goods are accessible to students all day long. Some students are merely thirsty,
• See a Baby Tooth? See a Dentist
  See a Baby Tooth? See a Dentist Baby teeth are worth more than just a dollar under the pillow. Providing proper care and oral hygiene during a child's first year of life can mean a lifetime of good oral health. Tradi
• Should I Floss?
  Should I Floss? Plaque is a sticky layer of material containing bacteria that accumulates on teeth, including places where toothbrushes can't reach. This can lead to gum disease. The best way to get rid of plaque is to brush and floss you
• Sip Wine to Save Your Teeth
  Tooth erosion may be an occupational hazard for wine tasters because of the beverage's acidity, and even regular wine drinkers may need to take some precautions, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of general dentists
• Soda Attack: Non-colas, Iced Tea Hurt Hard Enamel
  As summer temperatures rise so will people's thirst. Unfortunately, many people will grab a pop or iced tea instead of water. It isn't just cola's empty calories – about 150 per 12-ounce can – you should worry about. Many of these beverages harm enam
• Something Bad to Chew On
  Just because you're old enough to know better, it doesn't mean you will not pick up bad habits. Bruxism is a common, and usually unrecognized, nightly routine that often develops in adults. Bruxing is the involuntary gnashing or grinding of teeth
• Special Dental Patients Require Special Care
  Cavities. A disease that affects a majority of Americans is easily fixed with a quick trip to a dentist's office. But how does a person with disabilities, who may be confined to a bed or wheelchair, have cavities filled or receive a dental exam? For t
• Special Dental Patients Require Special Care
  Special Dental Patients Require Special Care Cavities. A disease that affects a majority of Americans is easily fixed with a quick trip to a dentist's office. But how does a person with disabilities, who may be confined to a bed or w
• Spring Clean Your Teeth
  Spring Clean Your Teeth Add a dental visit to this year's spring-cleaning list. A professional dental cleaning at least twice a year can improve your oral health, reports the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of genera
• Start the School Year Off With a Smile
  Start the School Year Off With a Smile Every child wants to look their best as they head back to school this fall. Parents help by scheduling haircuts and buying new outfits, but most overlook the simple steps to helping their child m
• Stop Pacifying Preschoolers
  Stop Pacifying Preschoolers If your child's heading to preschool this year and is still using a pacifier, now's the time to work with your child to drop the "binkey." Thousands of parents rely on pacifiers to calm and soo
• Students: Is a Dental Career for You?
  Deciding on a career? Consider dentistry. The dental profession allows you to contribute to the health and well-being of others, including changing the way a person looks and feels about himself or herself. General dentists make up the
• Study Finds Americans Need to "Brush Up" at the Office
  Study Finds Americans Need to "Brush Up" at the Office Healthy teeth affect nearly every aspect of our lives – even our professional image. However, according to a survey released by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and Oral-B Lab
• Take Care of Your Child's Smile for Life
  Take Care of Your Child’s Smile for Life With a baby, everything is a first, and that includes the first adorable smile. To ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles, the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) recommends that your child’s first trip t
• Teens: Want a Bright Smile? Visit Dentist, not Mall
  Although teeth whitening may be one of the safest, non-invasive and cost-efficient ways for teens to immediately boost their appearance, parents should learn about the best whitening options for their adolescent, reports the Academy of General Dent
• Tell Dentist if You Take Herbal Supplements
  Alternative medicine isn't so alternative anymore. Once dismissed as a fad or fringe movement, alternative medicine has become an increasingly popular component of mainstream health care, including dentistry. But patients n
• The Fountain of Dental Youth
  Members of the baby-boomer generation are increasing the demand for cosmetic dental procedures because they are looking for teeth that help them look and feel younger, reports the Academy of General Dentistry, an organization of general dentists de
• Tips on Finding Preventive Care for Children without Health Coverage
  Tips on Finding Preventive Care for Children's Oral Health More than 51 million school hours are lost each year due to dental-related illnesses. Despite these numbers, many children still do not visit the dentist. In addition, almost 50 percen
• Tips on Finding Preventive Care for Children's Oral Health
  Tips on Finding Preventive Care for Children's Oral Health More than 51 million school hours are lost each year due to dental-related illnesses. Despite these numbers, many children still do not visit the dentist. In addition, almost 50
• Toddler Tooth Tips
  Toddler Tooth Tips Congratulations! Like most children between 3 and 6 months, your infant just received his or her first tooth. But as a parent, do you know how to take care of those teeth to ensure a healthy smile that will last a life
• Tot Toothbrushes Promote Good Brushing Habits
  Many parents don't know that children's teeth must be cleaned as soon as they start coming in. What they also may not know is that traditional toothbrushes may not be safe for toddlers to use themselves because they can be overinserted in the mouth
• Tot Toothbrushes Promote Good Brushing Habits
  Tot Toothbrushes Promote Good Brushing Habits Many parents don't know that children's teeth must be cleaned as soon as they start coming in. What they also may not know is that traditional toothbrushes may not be safe for toddlers to use
• Tot Toothbrushes Promote Good Brushing Habits
  Tot Toothbrushes Promote Good Brushing Habits Many parents don't know that children's teeth must be cleaned as soon as they start coming in. What they also may not know is that traditional toothbrushes may not be safe for toddlers to use
• Under 30? Check for Oral Cancer
  In the past decade, the dental profession has seen a considerable increase in the number of oral cancer patients under age 30 who have no identifiable risk factors of contracting the disease, such as tobacco or alcohol use, according to an article i
• Using Floss Once a Day Helps Fight Decay
  Using Floss Once a Day Helps Fight Decay Some people loop. Some people spool. Others simply refuse. The verdict is in: Flossing is one of the best things you can ever do to take care of your teeth. “Flossing every 24 ho
• Walk Down the Aisle with a Beautiful Smile
  Along with a perfect wedding, many brides also want a perfect smile. When making appointments for dress alterations, floral arrangements and reception details, schedule a dental visit too, suggests the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organiz
• Want a Super-powered Smile? See Your Dentist
  Options abound for consumers in search of brighter, whiter smiles, from dentist-supervised procedures, to bleaching spas and over-the-counter whitening kits, which are available from drug stores and over the Internet. But consumers should exercise
• Watch for "Preemie" Teeth
  Watch for "Preemie" Teeth Even though they do not have any teeth yet, prematurely born babies can expect to have dental complications as they grow older. About 6 percent of babies are born before their due date and below
• What Are Cold Sores?
  Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are tiny, clear, fluid-filled blisters that form around the mouth and are caused by the herpes simplex virus (usually type 1, or HSV-1) living inside your nerve tissue. Cold sores usually do not last longer
• What Are Crowns?
  A crown is a restoration that covers, or "caps," a tooth to restore it to its normal shape and size, strengthening and improving the appearance of a tooth. Crowns are necessary when a tooth is generally broken down and fillings won't solve the prob
• What Are Crowns?
  A crown is a restoration that covers, or "caps," a tooth to restore it to its normal shape and size, strengthening and improving the appearance of a tooth. Crowns are necessary when a tooth is generally broken down and fillings won't solve the prob
• What Are Veneers?
  Veneers are ultra-thin shells of ceramic (porcelain) or a composite resin material, which are bonded to the front of teeth. This procedure requires little or no anesthesia and can be the ideal choice for improving the appearance of the front teeth.
• What Careers Are Available in Dentistry?
  Have you ever wondered what it would be like to work in the dental profession? Each dental team member has a unique job that requires a specific skill set and each is crucial to a successful practice and high-quality patient care. If you've ever thought
• What Color Is Your Smile?
  There is beauty in the magic splendor of softly falling flakes of snow against the backdrop of winter's color palate, but when it comes to teeth, most people want one shade: the whitest white that white can be. Unfortunately, teeth come in many sha
• What Foods Cause Tooth Decay in Children?
  Many different types of food can cause tooth decay in children, not just candy. Foods that are high in carbohydrates, as well as some fruits, juices and sodas, peanut butter, crackers and potato chips are culprits. Factors that cause tooth decay in
• What Is Air Abrasion?
  What Is Air Abrasion? Air abrasion is a way to remove decay from a tooth without using a dental drill. It works like a sandblaster removing graffiti from walls. The air abrasion hand piece blows a powerful air stream of tiny
• What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?
  What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay? Baby bottle tooth decay is caused by the frequent and long-term exposure of a child's teeth to liquids containing sugars. Among these liquids are milk, formula, fruit juice, sodas and other sweetened d
• What Is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?
  Baby bottle tooth decay is caused by the frequent and long-term exposure of a child's teeth to liquids containing sugars. Among these liquids are milk, formula, fruit juice, sodas and other sweetened drinks. The sugars in these liquids pool around the
• What is Bruxism?
  Bruxism is the technical term for grinding and clenching of the teeth that may cause facial pain. People who grind and clench their teeth, called bruxers, unintentionally bite down too hard at inappropriate times, such as in their sleep. In addit
• What is Burning Mouth Syndrome?
  Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a common, but complex problem that causes patients to experience a burning or scalding pain on the lips and tongue (and sometimes throughout the mouth). There are often no visible signs of irritation, and the cause of
• What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
  From subtle changes to major repairs, your dentist can perform a variety of procedures to improve your smile. There are many techniques and options to treat teeth that are discolored, chipped, misshapen or missing. Your dentist can reshape your tee
• What Is Oral Cancer?
  Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers, with roughly 35,000 new cases reported annually in the United States. The vast majority of oral cancers occur in people older than 50 years, with men being twice as likely as women to develop the diseas
• What Is the Best Technique for Brushing?
  There are a number of effective brushing techniques. Patients are advised to check with their dentist or hygienist to determine which technique is best for them, since tooth position and gum condition vary. One effective, easy-to-remember technique
• What is the Best Technique for Brushing?
  What is the Best Technique for Brushing? There are a number of effective brushing techniques. Patients are advised to check with their dentist or hygienist to determine which technique is best for them, since tooth position and gum co
• What Is Tooth Decay?
  Tooth decay, also known as caries or cavities, is an oral disease that affects many people. Unlike other diseases, however, caries is not life-threatening and is highly preventable, though it affects most people to some degree during their lifetime.
• What's Alternative Dentistry?
  Books on alternative medicine fill the shelves at the local bookstore. Authors, gurus, doctors and "healers" work the talk-show circuit. Late-night television infomercials pitch the latest vitamins, herbs, diets and exercise programs. More and more,
• When Should My Child First See a Dentist?
  When Should My Child First See a Dentist? Your child's first visit to the dentist should happen before his or her first birthday. The general rule is six months after eruption of the first tooth. Taking your child to the dentist at a
• Why Am I Anxious in the Dental Office?
  People are anxious about going to the dentist for different reasons, including worrying about the effectiveness of localized anesthetic and feeling like the dentist is rushed or is neglecting your concerns. Other factors include anticipation of pain
• Why Do I Need Anesthesia at the Dental Office?
  To make your dental visit as comfortable as possible, your dentist may suggest anesthesia to reduce or eliminate any pain or anxiety that may be related to your dental treatment. The type of anesthesia required for any dental procedure depends on t
• Why Do People Get Braces?
  A dentist usually recommends braces to improve a patient's "orofacial" appearance. Through orthodontic treatment, problems like crooked or crowded teeth, overbites or underbites, incorrect jaw position and disorders of the jaw joints are corrected.
• Why is Brushing With Toothpaste Important?
  Brushing with toothpaste is important for several reasons. First and foremost, a toothpaste and a correct brushing action work to remove plaque, a sticky, harmful film of bacteria that grows on your teeth that causes cavities, gum disease and event
• Why is Brushing With Toothpaste Important?
  Why is Brushing With Toothpaste Important? Brushing with toothpaste is important for several reasons. First and foremost, a toothpaste and a correct brushing action work to remove plaque, a sticky, harmful film of bacteria that grows
• With Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Sufferers Only See Flaws
  What society holds up as beautiful in men and women is often unrealistic, and in the modern age of computer-altered images and airbrushing, those ideals seem virtually unattainable for most people. The pressure to be perfect
• Brides-to-Be and Job Applicants: Here’s Your Quick Fix
  Reality TV has provided the general public with a glimpse into the world of cosmetic dentistry with shows like “Extreme Makeover”—and people like the “quick-fix” they see. One of these quick fixes is a resin appliance (known as a clip-on smile or sn
• Highly Preventable Oral Disease Affects Millions
  The statistics are staggering: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over four million children are affected by tooth decay nationwide, a jump of over 600,000 additional preschoolers over the course of a decade. Senior c
• Saliva Test May Help Dentists Check for Breast Cancer
  Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women in the United States. In 2006, the American Cancer Society estimated that there would be 212,920 new cases of invasive breast cancer, and in that year, 40,970 women would die from it. M
• What Patients Should Know About Techniques to Conserve Teeth
  Minimally invasive dentistry may not be a term with which dental patients are familiar, but many dentists use such techniques every day in their practices. Procedures such as remineralization, sealing, inlays and onlays help to conserve healthy tooth
• A Visit to the General Dentist can Prevent a Major Cause of Tooth Loss
  Do you know what common oral disease has been associated with heart disease, stroke, diabetes and preterm low-birth weight babies? According to the November 2006 issue of AGD Impact , the monthly newsmagazine of the Academy of General Dentistry (AG
• Dental Insurance: May Help Take the Bite Out of Bills
  Dental insurance can be helpful to patients in defraying the costs when paying for dental treatment. Insurance, however, can sometimes be a double-edged sword and it is important for consumers to investigate what plans will keep them and their familie
• Tongue Scrapers Only Slightly Reduce Bad Breath
  Bad breath is a common problem for many people, given the wide variety of substances traveling through our mouths daily. Some people avoid offensive foods and drinks, chew gum, use mouth rinses, or eat mints to mask unpleasant odor. Others cannot e
• Different Whitening Options Produce Similar Results
  In today’s society, the emphasis on one’s appearance is unavoidable. Consumers receive messages on a daily basis regarding products to help them lose weight, change their skin’s appearance, or improve the whiteness of their teeth. Tooth whitening i
• Popularity Declines as More People Keep Their Natural Teeth
  More adults are living longer and healthier lives. According to U.S. Census data, more than 12 percent of the population is age 65 or older. And, among adults ages 35 to 44, 60 percent have lost at least one permanent tooth. So, as life expectancy inc
• Pregnancy Cravings Can Harm Your Oral Health
  Pregnant women may often make ice cream runs to calm their cravings as they wait for their baby’s arrival. Other women suffering from an eating disorder called pica, will have cravings for ice, freezer frost, or even soil. Pica combined with b
• Pregnancy Cravings Can Harm Your Oral Health
  Pregnant women may often make ice cream runs to calm their cravings as they wait for their baby’s arrival. Other women suffering from an eating disorder called pica, will have cravings for ice, freezer frost, or even soil. Pica combined with b
• Soaking Up the Sun While Getting a Cavity Filled?
  While most people may not associate combining their vacation time with a dental visit, the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) reports that the concept of dental tourism is becoming increasingly popular with Americans looking for lower-priced dental
• Swishing Once a Day Poses No Harm to Dental Work
  Swishing Once a Day Poses No Harm to Dental Work People have been paying more attention to the effects certain liquids like coffee, citrus-containing drinks, and even toothbrushes have on teeth. Mouthrinses are no exception. Mouthrinses
• Treatment Drug May Cause Jawbone to Die
  Breast cancer patients, individuals at risk for osteoporosis, and individuals undergoing certain types of bone cancer therapies often take drugs that contain bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates may place patients at risk for developing osteonecrosis of t
• Whitening Options Produce Similar Results
  In today’s society, the emphasis on one’s appearance is unavoidable. Consumers receive messages on a daily basis regarding products to help them lose weight, change their skin’s appearance, or improve the whiteness of their teeth. Tooth whitening