Going to your dentist regularly will help ensure a preventive approach to your health care. When dental health problems are seen early, and treatment is likely to be simpler and more affordable. Also, some diseases or medical conditions have symptoms that can appear in the mouth. Every person is different. Some people need to visit the dentist twice a year; others may need more visits. When you visit your dentist for a routine check-up they will review your recent medical...

When we hear the word cancer it might seem like a distance term, or you may have a very personal experience. “1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime” (cancer.org). Cancer impacts many people.   April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, which raises awareness about oral cancer and the importance of completing self-exams. Oral Cancer starts in the oral cavity (mouth) and the oropharynx (neck and throat). This year there will be...

A common fallacy is that cavities always cause pain, but this is not always true. Cavities or tooth decay forms when the bacteria in the mouth eat the available sugars and produce acid, which breaks down the outer layer, the enamel, of the tooth. The cavity can then progress to the inner layers until it reaches the nerve and blood supply of the tooth. Cavities often develop between the teeth and in the presence of deep grooves. Cavities can develop...

Smoking has a serious effect on your teeth, gums, and mouth. “Cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and other forms of tobacco cause oral cancer, gum disease, and other oral health problems.” (CDC, 2020). Here are some fast facts about tobacco use from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2020): Over 40% of adults aged 20 to 64 who currently smoke cigarettes have untreated tooth decay. Adults aged 65 or older who smoke cigarettes are twice as likely to have untreated...

Children often get tooth injuries from falling, during play, or sporting activities. Depending on the age of the child, it could be a baby tooth (primary) or an adult (permanent) tooth. Children greater than 13 years of age, typically, have lost all of their baby teeth. Symptoms of Tooth Injuries Your child may experience bleeding, pain, or sensitivity when a tooth is injured. The tooth may also change to a darker color if the inner part of the tooth is...

Have you noticed bleeding when brushing or cleaning between your teeth? Swollen and bleeding gums are early signs that your gums are inflamed and there is an infection. A healthy mouth has gums that are light pink in color and fit firmly around each tooth. There is no bleeding when you brush or clean between your teeth. A healthy mouth has no bleeding. Bleeding is not normal. Bleeding is a sign of infection. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. Inflamed...

During the winter holidays there are numerous sweet treats. Many people indulge in sweet beverages, pies, treats, and candies, but it is important to know how to prevent dental cavities with an increased consumption of sugar. How do sweet foods and beverages cause cavities? When you eat sugary foods and drinks, bacteria in the mouth feed on the available sugars and produce acid, which breaks down the outer layer, the enamel, of the tooth. Cavities often develop between the teeth...

Your mouth is a window into your body. The mouth can show signs of general infection, side effects to medications, nutritional deficiencies, signs of systemic diseases, and more. By having good oral hygiene and visiting your dental professional regularly you are taking care of your entire body! Here are some examples of where research has identified a correlation between oral and general health. Heart Disease Diabetes Pneumonia Arthritis Preterm birth / low birth weight Cancer Neurodegenerative diseases Obesity Osteoporosis Periodontitis...